Copyright 1995 - . All rights reserved. The content (including but not limited to text, photo, multimedia information, etc) published in this site belongs to China Daily Information Co (CDIC). Without written authorization from CDIC, such content shall not be republished or used in any form. Note: Browsers with 1024*768 or higher resolution are suggested for this site. 0108263 License for publishing multimedia online Registration Number: 130349 Registration Number: 130349 "Courage faces fear and thereby masters it." -- Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. NEWS PROVIDED BY Alveda King Ministries Feb. 3, 2023 ATLANTA, Feb. 3, 2023 /Standard Newswire/ -- The following is submitted by Dr. Alveda King, she is available for comment: So much has changed since Black History Month last year in 2022. Actually, to be more accurate, while there seems to be more of the same-old, same-old of threats and outbreaks over issues of skin color and life, there seems to be light breaking through in the darkness. In the least expected corridors of life, people are seeking faith and love to overcome fear and hate. This Black History Month, we should pray and draw attention away from the noise and back to the issues that matter. For example, the rampant fatherlessness and shocking rates of abortion in the Black community should be stunning to all Americans of good faith. Many believe that these two related issues are among the biggest civil rights battles of our time. Of course anything begins with first identifying the problem. My colleague Jack Brewer says it best: "The simple truth is that Black Americans will continue to struggle and fall behind if the fatherlessness crisis is not addressed. At the same time, the effects of abortion on significant parts of the Black community will keep robbing our country of untold ingenuity and talent." By highlighting fatherlessness and abortion this Black History Month, we can help identify some of the biggest issues Black America faces. Then, and only then, can Americans of all stripes unite to solve them. Another issue to be resolved is the conflicts surrounding CRT, reparations, 1619 VS 1776, and other "race" related questions. One solution is becoming more and more obvious. Nix the socially engineered concept of separate races for the truth that humanity is "one blood/one human race." "... And hath made of one blood all nations of men for to dwell on all the face of the earth, and hath determined the times before appointed, and the bounds of their habitation; that they should seek the Lord, if haply they might feel after him, and find him, though he be not far from every one of us: for in him we live, and move, and have our being; as certain also of your own poets have said, For we are also his offspring." Acts 17:26-28 KJV The idea that Florida is trying to bury Black history by opposing this left-wing ideological agenda is absurd. In fact, Florida law already requires that public schools teach "the history of African Americans...the passage to America, the enslavement experience, abolition, and the contributions of African Americans to society." Governor DeSantis explained this position when he argued that "education, not indoctrination" is Florida's goal and that African American history will remain a part of Florida's core curriculum. No one is trying to shy away from the truth by denouncing African American Studies courses that promote a woke ideology. Instead, by emphasizing the importance of a realistic, serious study of our Nation's past, truth seekers oppose the idea of ideological agendas taking the place of genuine education and the idea of activism replacing real learning. We can't heal from the past by brushing it aside, but we also can't weaponize our history to turn our Nation's citizens against each other. Instead, by learning the truth about our country, we can build a bridge to get past the divisions of skin color issues and level the playing field for the one-blood human race. Every year black history brings reflections of the past and new revelations. This year I discovered that not only is black history, celebrated in America, almost every ethnic group, every culture in America has a celebratory day or month. We should celebrate ethnicity and come together in unity. Let's overcome fear and hate with faith and love in 2023. This year, as we celebrate BLACK HISTORY MONTH in America, let us celebrate cultural ethnic victories as we continue to seek justice and human dignity for everyone. Here on planet earth, we are one blood/one human race. With God, the Impossible Dream becomes more possible in every generation, every decade, and on social media every day. Links of interest: For a sneak preview, enjoy a fresh take on the 20th century civil rights anthem WE SHALL OVERCOME. We Have Overcome Also, in tribute to the MLK DREAM, I've covered THE IMPOSSIBLE DREAM, which really isn't so impossible after all. For more information on the KING FAMILY LEGACY, including news about my parents Rev. AD and Naomi King, please check out KING FAMILY LEGACY FEATURED DOCUMENTARIES. https://sputnikglobe.com/20230204/terrorist-groups-laying-mines-on-swedens-path-to-nato-membership-turkey-says-1106979712.html Terrorist Groups 'Laying Mines' on Sweden's Path to NATO Membership, Turkey Says Terrorist Groups 'Laying Mines' on Sweden's Path to NATO Membership, Turkey Says Terrorist organizations are blocking Sweden's path to NATO membership, with Stockholm deliberately stepping on these "mines," although the country could resolve this issue at will, Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said on Saturday. 2023-02-04T18:50+0000 2023-02-04T18:50+0000 2023-02-04T18:50+0000 world turkiye sweden pkk kurdistan workers' party (pkk) nato /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e6/0b/04/1103783684_0:0:1280:720_1920x0_80_0_0_647f49494a23d771b5468a468f77537e.png The minister also stated that Ankara had called off the third round of trilateral talks between Turkey, Sweden and Finland on NATO membership in response to anti-Turkish provocations in Sweden. On Thursday, Turkish Defense Minister Hulusi Akar said that Sweden had not yet fulfilled its obligation to extradite "terrorists" to Turkey so Ankara cannot approve Stockholm's application for NATO membership. Turkey has demanded that Sweden extradite Kurds, allegedly belonging to the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK), which Ankara designates as terrorists. Stockholm, however, hasn't been able to meet Ankara's demands.Sweden and Finland abandoned neutrality and applied for NATO membership in May after Russia launched its military operation in Ukraine. Their accession protocols have already been ratified by all NATO members except Hungary and Turkey. The process came to a standstill in January after Rasmus Paludan, the leader of the Danish political party Stram Kurs, burned a copy of the Quran in front of the Turkish embassy in Stockholm with permission from the Swedish authorities. Erdogan then condemned the demonstration and said Sweden should not count on Ankara's support for its NATO bid. https://sputnikglobe.com/20230203/finns-ready-for-nato-without-sweden-while-pm-promises-hand-in-hand-accession-1106939026.html turkiye sweden Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2023 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International sweden nato, sweden turkey row, sweden nato membership, quran burning https://sputnikglobe.com/20230204/us-deliberately-escalating-ukraine-conflict-russian-ambassador-says-1106966055.html US Deliberately Escalating Ukraine Conflict, Russian Ambassador Says US Deliberately Escalating Ukraine Conflict, Russian Ambassador Says Providing Kiev with more powerful weaponry is a deliberate escalation of the Ukraine conflict by the United States, Russian Ambassador to the United States Anatoly Antonov said commenting on Washingtons new aid announcement. 2023-02-04T03:31+0000 2023-02-04T03:31+0000 2023-02-04T03:31+0000 russia's special operation in ukraine russian ambassador us-russia relations us-russia relations anatoly antonov russia ukraine /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e6/0a/0d/1101821706_0:241:2784:1807_1920x0_80_0_0_56c27145eb18b5d62f122af102cadb4f.jpg On Friday, the United States pledged up to $2.17 billion in new security assistance funding for Ukraine, including the "Hawk" surface-to-air missile systems, anti-aircraft guns and ammunition, ammunition for High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems, and precision Ground Launched Small Diameter Bombs (GLSDB). "Washington sees no boundaries in seeking to inflict a strategic defeat on Russia. The transfer of increasingly powerful weapons to the Kiev regime is a deliberate escalation of the conflict by the United States," Antonov said in a comment posted on Telegram by the Russian Embassy in the US. Antonov warned that at such a pace, Washington could reach "absolute madness," such as providing fighter jets to Ukraine. The Russian ambassador stressed that any attempts to inflict damage on Russia are doomed to failure and that Russian forces will defend all territories that have become part of Russia at the will of the local population. "The sooner the United States realizes this, the sooner the current conflict will end," Antonov said. On Friday, in response to a question on whether the intent behind the provision of GLSDB bombs to Kiev was to target Crimea, US Defense Department spokesperson Brig. Gen. Pat Ryder said that it will be up to Ukraine to decide when and where it will use the GLSDBs. After the Pentagon's Friday statement, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov reminded that one should not forget comments made by Russian President Vladimir Putin in Volgograd earlier this week. On Thursday, Putin said that those who expect to defeat Russia on the battlefield, drag European countries, including Germany, into a new war with Russia, do not understand that "a modern war with Russia will be completely different for them." Putin stressed that Russia had not sent its tanks to the borders of Western countries, but Moscow "has something to answer, and the use of armored vehicles is not the limit." russia ukraine Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2023 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International russia, us, russia-us relations, ukraine, anatoly antonov https://sputnikglobe.com/20230204/why-the-hysteria-surrounding-this-chinese-balloon-1106963695.html Why the Hysteria Surrounding This Chinese Balloon? Why the Hysteria Surrounding This Chinese Balloon? On todays episode of The Backstory, host Lee Stranahan discussed current events including Antony Blinken postponing his trip to China, and Austria revoking... 04.02.2023, Sputnik International 2023-02-04T09:15+0000 2023-02-04T09:15+0000 2023-02-04T16:59+0000 the backstory ai california antiwar china russiagate radio chinese balloon over us /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e7/02/03/1106963549_0:0:1920:1080_1920x0_80_0_0_bc6b9ab5dc118ff494f004732de1bae1.png Why the Hysteria Surrounding this Chinese Balloon? On todays episode of The Backstory, host Lee Stranahan discussed current events including Antony Blinken postponing his trip to China, and Austria revoking the diplomatic status of four Russian diplomats. Carter Laren Co-host of Unsafe Spaces | California Storms, Layoffs in the Tech Sector, and Government HealthcareDaniel McAdams - Executive Director of The 'Ron Paul Institute for Peace and Prosperity | Uniting Against War, The Free Speech Movement, and Building CoalitionsIn the first hour, Lee spoke with Carter Laren about three weeks without electricity in Northern California, decriminalization of drugs in Oregon, and the problem with Libertarians. Carter talked about the free market and how people are easily manipulated by popularity. Carter commented on government controlled healthcare and Canadian health allowing medical euthansia.In the second hour, Lee spoke with Daniel McAdams about the anti homeschool movement, the fall of California, and how the left became anti free speech. Daniel explained the problems with building an anti war coalition and the establishment losing the narrative on Russiagate. Daniel discussed his former libertarian views and how the media distorts the view point for the public.We'd love to get your feedback at radio@sputniknews.comThe views and opinions expressed in this program are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the position of Sputnik. china Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2023 Lee Stranahan https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e5/02/13/1082125222_0:0:293:292_100x100_80_0_0_a8bc846f559660e5bf7574f8a9608a1d.png Lee Stranahan https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e5/02/13/1082125222_0:0:293:292_100x100_80_0_0_a8bc846f559660e5bf7574f8a9608a1d.png News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Lee Stranahan https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e5/02/13/1082125222_0:0:293:292_100x100_80_0_0_a8bc846f559660e5bf7574f8a9608a1d.png ai, california, antiwar, china, russiagate, , radio, chinese balloon over us Spicy Cranberry Pork Tenderloin Yields 6 servings Ingredients 2 limes kosher salt freshly ground black pepper 2 pork tenderloins (about 1 pound each) (about 1 pound each) 1 tsp vegetable oil 12 oz fresh cranberries cup light brown sugar (packed) (packed) 1 jalapeno (seeded and finely chopped) | Preparation | Preheat oven to 400F. Finely grate zest from limes. Juice limes (about 4 tablespoons). In a small bowl, mix half lime zest (about 2 tablespoons) with 1 teaspoon salt and teaspoon pepper. Brush tenderloins with oil. Place tenderloins in a nonstick roasting pan, fat side up. Roast, flipping them over after 8 minutes. Add lime zest mixture to the top and continue roasting until a digital meat thermometer reads between 145F (medium rare) and 160F (medium), about 20 to 35 minutes. Meanwhile, in a medium saucepan, mix 1 cup water with cranberries, brown sugar, jalapeno and remaining lime zest and juice. Bring to a boil over medium heat. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer, stirring occasionally, until berries have burst and juices have thickened, about 5 minutes. Set aside. Transfer pork to a carving board and let stand for 3 to 5 minutes. Meanwhile, in the roasting pan, bring cranberry sauce to a boil over medium heat, scraping up any browned bits in the pan with a wooden spoon. Carve pork and serve with sauce. On Jan. 5, 2023, I took the oath of office to become the 33rd Attorney General serving the great state of Nebraska. By taking the oath, I joined the peoples law firm, teaming up with the professionals already hard at work representing Nebraskans across the state. Over the coming months, we will update you on the work we are doing for you. The attorney general has a variety of responsibilities, and we have specific departments (which we refer to as bureaus) organized to fulfill our duties. Here are a few: We have bureaus focused extensively on crime, with criminal prosecution, criminal appeals, and Medicaid fraud teams. These groups investigate and prosecute crimes across the state, with a particular emphasis on helping prosecute crimes in greater Nebraska. We also handle all appeals in criminal cases, conduct victim advocacy, fight the scourge of human trafficking, and work to support law enforcement around the state. Our natural resources bureau serves to protect Nebraskas natural resources. Among their important obligations is to protect Nebraskas rights to its water, such as enforcing compacts with other states. We represent the State of Nebraska in civil court cases while also advising state agencies on legal questions that they might have. The office has a consumer protection bureau, which helps protect Nebraska consumers. These attorneys often join with other states fighting against companies who are harming Nebraska consumers (such as our pending case against Google) while focusing on those bad actors in the state who try to scam or defraud Nebraska consumers, in particular elderly Nebraskans. We also defend the rights of Nebraskans, especially when the federal government or states violate the United States Constitution. In those cases, our Solicitor General stands in court to defend Nebraskans and our founding documents. Our office has many more responsibilities; a few additional examples include enforcing the open meetings laws, enforcing compliance with medical licensing statutes, and providing opinions at the request of the Nebraska Legislature and executive agencies. As we head into the new year, we will ensure that these obligations of the office are discharged with the degree of professionalism and skill that Nebraskans expect and deserve. Other challenges loom. One such challenge involves Nebraskas water rights under the 1923 Nebraska-Colorado Compact. That agreement gives Nebraska rights to significant flows from the South Platte River during the non-irrigated season if Nebraska builds the Perkins County Canal. In 2022, while serving as Speaker of the Legislature, I worked with then-Governor Ricketts to pass LB 1015 and provide a down-payment appropriation of over $50 million to build the canal. Governor Pillen, in his State of the State address, announced his administrations commitment to fully fund the completion of this critical infrastructure project. As attorney general, we will protect Nebraskans rights under that Compact. There also exists crucial courtroom fights with the Biden Administration. Time and again, whether through executive orders or rulemaking, the Biden Administration has acted outside of the scope of constitutional authority. State attorneys general provide a critical check to federal overreach. Our office is in the courtroom defending the Constitutionone example is Biden v. Nebraska, in which Nebraska has challenged the Biden Administrations $400 billion decision to cancel student loan debt without congressional authorization. The Supreme Court will hear argument from our office in February, and we will be in Washington, D.C., to ensure that the separation of powers framework in the Constitution is protected. As the year unfolds, challenges and issues will arise that we do not yet know about today. When they do, we will tackle them with first-class legal work, attention to detail, a spirit of public service, a focus on justice, and with the rights and interests of Nebraskans always at the forefront of our minds. I would encourage you to visit our website (https://ago.nebraska.gov/) to learn more about our work. In addition, Id encourage you to follow us on Twitter @NEAttorneyGen and Facebook as we communicate the work of the office. It is an honor to serve you as attorney general, and on behalf of the professionals in our office, thank you for the opportunity to serve. We look forward to the work ahead in 2023. The last blood drive for 22 was unable to happen and the Hemingford Volunteer Fire Department missed National Blood Donor Month by a few days, they will be hosting the first Blood Drive in 2023 on Feb. 8 at the Fire Hall. Katie Gasseling, MLS (ASCP), clinical laboratory supervisor of the West Nebraska Blood Center states, In order to save lives, we must have blood on the shelf and ready for transfusion. Blood donation is a free gift that only takes a little bit of your time, but it is a critical resource for patients in need. Transfusion of blood and blood products helps save millions of lives every year. It can help patients suffering from life-threatening conditions live longer and with a higher quality of life and supports complex medical and surgical procedures. It can have an essential, life-saving role during the emergency response to man-made and natural disasters or be critical in maternal and childcare situations. Come out to support those in need of blood in our area, the canteen will be provided as usual. There are 76 time slots available and the goal is to send 50 units back to Scottsbluff. Donors may go to www.volunteersignup.org/HM3LY to reserve a time. If anyone needs assistance signing up or if there are any questions, donors may call 487-5436 in the evenings. Data shows Cowlitz County young adults without a degree usually make less than their college counterparts. But in a rural economy dominated by engineering and manufacturing, the type of education needed to make livable wages is different than typical post-grad options. Students are pursuing a different kind of education trade schools, apprenticeships or certification programs. With rising job openings and wages, Cowlitz County high school graduates who attend college less than the state average are seeing more work options. Vickei Hrdina, a career readiness director with the regional Educational Service District No. 112, said 70% of employers still expect some sort of post-grad education. We are trying to combat that idea that when you graduate, and even if you end up getting a job, you dont need any growth or education, Hrdina said. She said employers also want what they call 21st-century skills communication, critical thinking skills and some technology experience. With more jobs available today, students have more choices. According to the Washington state Economic Securities, 1,800 jobs have been added to Cowlitz County since the pandemic. That is a 4.4% increase higher than the nation which increased 0.8% and the state at 1.9%. The largest employment industries in Cowlitz County, according to Workforce Southwest Washington, are manufacturing as well as healthcare and social assistance all of which are included in Career and Technical Education, or CTE, courses. Health care and social services employment with an annual salary of around $56,000 spiked more than any other industry in Cowlitz County between 2007 and 2022, with the Employment Security Department reporting more than 1,000 additional jobs in that time. For kids, knowing what they want to do is really fluid, said Bill Ofstun, Longview School Districts career and technical education director. When you think health science, you think doctor or nurse because those are the most predominant fields, but there are lots of support positions that are involved in that. Working as a healthcare provider, assistant or caretaker requires a certificate of some kind. Hrdina said all employers across industries also eventually want employees to get some sort of post-secondary education. They need employees badly right now, across all industries, Hrdina said. The same is for universities, of course. They are all on-board for students to come in with some of those skills. Historical college data School district leaders tend to agree that college does not always mesh well with every student. Tuition runs high, and barriers to financial aid can seem complicated or out of reach. Cowlitz Countys average household income trails Washington state as a whole, and local youth have historically not attended college. Between the six largest public school districts in Cowlitz County, 54.2% of students on average do not enroll in any institution within the first year after graduation, according to 2021 data from the Washington State Education Research and Data Center. In these same districts, an average of 67.4% do not have a degree or certificate after eight years post-graduation. The county surpasses the statewide average for students who dont enroll, which sits at 40%. Across the state, about 53% on average did not have a degree after eight years, according to the state education research and data center. What are districts teaching? Students are learning career skills in high school. Kalama School Districts CTE programs focus mainly on science, technology and engineering. Students can also learn math- and science-based trades like robotics, natural resources, construction and manufacturing. Kalama Superintendent Eric Nerison said the development of CTE in the area helps students make informed career decisions. Its part of that experience of making things that feeds into the same skillset you need to be successful in college, Nerison said. For lots of students, it helps to answer that question of, Why do I need to learn this? Kalama in 2022 got $333,000 in state funds to add more CTE courses. The district in 2018 also got about $1.9 million from a state grant for a new a STEM laboratory that could teach physics and space science. Technology and funding for newer facilities has helped, Ofstun said. R.A. Long High School used a $1.1 million state grant to convert an outdated woodshop into a lab equipped with a virtual interactive autopsy table, microscope samples and fake crime scenes to teach forensics. The Longview School District offers more than 60 CTE courses. The Kelso School District offers 70 with seven in-field classes. Kelso students can learn aviation science at the Southwest Washington Regional Airport, health sciences and diesel mechanic technology housed in Lower Columbia College. They can also enroll in two fire science classes at the Cowlitz 2 fire station and study police science at the Kelso train station. In Kelso, a newly refurbished Huntington Middle School has a science laboratory that doubles as a culinary space. All of these paths can be accessed, whether you go into a trade, a two-year or four-year institution, Hrdina said, or whether you decide none of those options really work for you. Graduation requirement changes The state has also expanded access for students who pursue careers in trades by widening graduation requirements and CTE funding. Graduation standards include historically traditional ways to earn the diploma: high scores on the SAT/ACT and passing state tests. But not every student must go that route to graduate, according to graduation standards published by the Washington state Board of Education. If they want to join the military, they have to meet the standard on the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery exam. If they opt for a trade, they must complete a series of approved career and technical courses. Neither of these options require students to meet English or math standards, but those core curriculum skills intertwine with what they learn in CTE courses or military training. This is now a pathway that didnt exist before, Ofstun said. Russia says the Su-35S pilot, based in the Western Military District, conducted flight missions to destroy many targets in 800 sorties. Many of the missions of the Flanker had ravaged the Armed Forces of Ukraine's military infrastructure. Su-35S Destroys Numerous Air, Ground Targets One comment by the deputy commander of the aviation squadron 'Alexander' is that the Flanker S variant is efficient as combat aircraft. Equipped with ground-to-air strike capabilities as an excellent platform, Bulgarian Military reported. Built for aerial acrobatics given by its maneuverable deflectable deflector thrust nozzles for close-in air combat. It is paired with its selection of long, short, and medium air-to-air missiles, with excellent stand-off range for its air-to-ground missiles for radar and immobile ground targets, noted Hudson Institute. In about 800 flights during the Ukraine conflict, the lieutenant colonel was awarded the medal for the Order of Bravery and the Nesterov medal. Due to the many targets attacked in many missions on the air and ground. The squadron's job is to knock out all air defense systems in the Armed Forces of Ukraine inventory, which has been done well, leaving the Ukrainians gasping. Combat planes are based in temporary bases like airports to achieve operational, tactical aviation. Russian Personnel Set To Achieve Goals Before all flights, specialists of the aviation complex check all ordnance to check that all missiles are working and that all systems are standard and operational. Read Also: Sukhoi Su-35 Infrared Tracker Optimized Prime targets of the Flankers are the assets of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, like radar installation, missile batteries that will be targeted, and a painted several ways to hit them. Next are air and ground attack missiles to destroy targets in any weather condition, per Air Force Technology. Super Flankers can quickly take off and climb faster than their western equivalents in a mere few seconds. The pilot punches the route to its target and flies to the destination. It could climb at 300 m/s to about 20 km high, with the afterburner engaged that reaches 2,500 km/h velocity. As the latest, most capable fighter built for nimbleness despite its size loads up to 8 tons of payload on it. Though it's a fighter, it does as well in attacking Ukrainian ground positions with air and ground attack weaponry mounted in pylons. The exactness of the strikes is improved by practice via the objective control systems added by the military department. Su-35S Latest Engagements These offensives in Ugledar noted cited TASS in the input of correspondent Izvestiya Kiril Olkov said that gunners and tank personnel are trying to make a hole for Pacific Fleet marines to pass through in Vagledar. The main thrust of forces is the city of Ugledar in the southeast sector of the city. Fighting is not on the outskirts; instead, in the out limits of the city. Russian forces are situated in the most critical position the AFU ran away from to escape the meat grinder. Though Russia has ground forces cleaning up the AFU, which the Su-35S pilot supports to destroy many targets to clear the way. Related Article: Russian Sukhoi Su-35 Flanker-E Demolishing Ukrainian S-300 Air Defense System @ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. SAN FRANCISO A jury on Friday decided Elon Musk didnt deceive investors with his 2018 tweets about electric automaker Tesla in a proposed deal that quickly unraveled and raised questions about whether the billionaire had misled investors. The verdict by the nine jurors was reached after less that two hours of deliberation following a three-week trial. It represents a major vindication for Musk, who spent about eight hours on the witness stand defending his motives for the August 2018 tweets at the center of the trial. Musk, 51, wasnt on hand for the brief reading of the verdict, after making a surprise appearance earlier Friday for closing arguments that drew starkly different portraits of him. Alex Spiro, Musks attorney, declined to comment as he walked out of the courtroom following the verdicts. The trial pitted Tesla investors represented in a class-action lawsuit against Musk, who is CEO of both the electric automaker and the Twitter service he bought for $44 billion a few months ago. Shortly before boarding his private jet on Aug. 7, 2018, Musk tweeted that he had the financing to take Tesla private, even though it turned out he hadnt gotten an iron-clad commitment for a deal that would have cost $20 billion to $70 billion to pull off. Musks integrity was at stake at the trial as well part of a fortune that has established him as one of the worlds richest people. He could have been saddled with a bill for billions of dollars in damages had the jury found him liable for the 2018 tweets that already had been deemed falsehoods by the judge presiding over the trial. Earlier Friday, Musk sat stoically in court during the trials closing arguments while he was both vilified as a rich narcissist whose reckless behavior risks anarchy and hailed as a visionary looking out for the little guy. The trial hinged on whether Musks tweeting in 2018 misled Tesla shareholders, steering them in a direction that they argue cost them billions of dollars. The civil case centered on two tweets Musk posted Aug. 7, 2018, about a Tesla buyout that never happened. The first tweet Musk declared he had funding secured to take Tesla private. A few hours later, Musk sent another tweet indicating that the deal was imminent. The tweets caused Twitters stock to surge during a 10-day period covered by the lawsuit before falling back after Musk abandoned a deal in which he never had a firm financing commitment, based on evidence presented during the trial. Nicholas Porritt, a lawyer for the Tesla shareholders, urged the jurors to rebuke Musk for his loose relationship with the truth. Our society is based on rules, Porritt said. We need rules to save us from anarchy. Rules should apply to Elon Musk like everyone else. Alex Spiro, Musks attorney, conceded the 2018 tweets were technically inaccurate. But he told the jurors, Just because its a bad tweet doesnt make it a fraud. U.S. District Judge Edward Chen, who presided over the trial, decided last year that Musks 2018 tweets were false and has instructed the jury to view them that way. During roughly eight hours on the stand earlier in the trial, Musk insisted he believed he had lined up the funds from Saudi Arabias Public Investment Fund to take Tesla private after eight years as a publicly held company. He defended his initial August 2018 tweet as well-intentioned and aimed at ensuring all Tesla investors knew the automaker might be on its way to ending its run as a publicly held company. I had no ill motive, Musk testified. My intent was to do the right thing for all shareholders. Spiro echoed that theme in his closing argument. He was trying to include the retail shareholder, the mom and pop, the little guy, and not seize more power for himself, Spiro said. Porritt, meanwhile, scoffed at the notion that Musk could have concluded he had a firm commitment after a 45-minute meeting at a Tesla factory on July 31, 2018, with Yasir al-Rumayyan, governor of Saudi Arabias wealth fund, given there was no written documentation. A text message that al-Rumayyan sent later in August that is part of the trial evidence also indicated that the Saudi fund was only interested in learning more about Musks proposal to take Tesla private at a time the company was valued at about $60 billion. Apparently a $60 billion financing commitment was obtained and no one wrote down a single word, Porritt said, while asserting that amount was larger than the combined economic output of Nicaragua, Honduras and El Salvador. Spiro, though, pointed to Musks track record helping to start and run a list of companies that include digital payment pioneer PayPal and rocket ship maker SpaceX, in addition to Tesla. The automaker based in Austin is now worth nearly $600 billion, despite a steep decline in its stock price last year amid concerns that Musks purchase of Twitter would distract him from Tesla. Two years after a winter storm killed 246 people and left millions of Texans without electricity, Texas cities once again buckled under a menacing winter storm. Freezing temperatures and ice storms pushed large portions of the state to a standstill this week. Many school districts shut down through at least Thursday as ice made roads and bridges in Dallas and Austin nearly impossible to traverse. Heavy ice brought down power lines all over Austin, prompting widespread power outages in the capital city of the nations second-most-populous state. Hundreds of thousands of businesses and households across Central and East Texas remained without power on Thursday as utility crews worked nonstop to repair downed power lines. Austin alone had 117,000 outages as of Friday afternoon while Robertson and Leon counties each totaled more than 3,000 households without power. Unlike in February 2021 when the states electric grid nearly collapsed, this weeks outages were caused by localized issues, such as power lines downed by fallen trees. Still, the weather ultimately caused major disruptions and closures, leaving Texans wondering whether the rapidly growing state is fit to handle extreme weather. Ice storms are common occurrences in Texas. John Nielsen-Gammon of Texas A&M, the states climatologist, said that most areas of Texas north of Interstate 10 or more than half of the state average at least one day of freezing rain a year. The Texas Panhandle gets around three days of freezing rain per year. Other extreme weather events, such as short, heavy bouts of precipitation and very hot days, are becoming increasingly common because of climate change. But much of Texas infrastructure was not built to sustain such extreme cold weather. And local governments historically have not prepared for winter weather in large part due to the costs. However, experts this week said what happened in Texas is fresh evidence that cities and states across the U.S. must rethink how they prepare for all sorts of weather-related emergencies. Strategies to better prepare cities large and small can run the gamut from burying power lines, redeploying emergency response units and keeping trees trimmed, experts told The Texas Tribune. When we talk about adaptation, when we talk about resilience, what it means is that day to day, it costs more money to do that, said Jeffrey Schlegelmilch, director of the National Center for Disaster Preparedness at Columbia University. Now, it saves it in the long run. It saves it both in terms of economic loss as well as lives and livelihoods. But that [cost] is unavoidable. But implementing those ideas can be costly, leaving local elected officials presiding over limited budgets to figure out how much to spend and how to sell the expense to the public. You need to analyze how much youre going to spend on some things that might be [needed on] a rare occasion, Austin Mayor Kirk Watson said. Youre not going to want to act like youre Buffalo, New York. Youre going to want to try to figure out what the possibilities are and what the costs are and then weigh the costs. Its very expensive to be cheap Increasingly, southern cities more accustomed to dealing with extreme heat are figuring out how to deal with extreme cold while the reverse is true for northern cities. The challenge for city and state leaders is to decide how much money to invest in preparing for winter weather that only occurs once or twice a year, on average. State Rep. Erin Zwiener, a Democrat from Driftwood, whose home had been without power for four hours Thursday morning, floated the idea of using part of the states nearly $33 billion surplus on infrastructure to lessen the effects of severe winter storms like buying more trucks to de-ice freezing roads. Maybe were only going to pull them out twice a winter, Zwiener said, referring to the truck idea. But I think thats worth it for people to be able to safely reach hospitals, for people to be able to safely move to a place that does have power and for our power crews to be able to reach the lines in a reasonable amount of time they need to repair them. Although there is not strong evidence as to how climate change affects ice storms in Texas, climate experts said the storms nonetheless expose weaknesses in the states infrastructure. One thing [Winter Storm] Uri showed us is how vulnerable we are to any weather event thats even a little bit outside of our normal operating conditions, said Andrew Dessler, a climate scientist and the director for the Texas Center for Climate Studies at Texas A&M. Just a few degrees outside of that, and things go to hell very quickly. A half an inch of ice or more is the technical definition of an ice storm, meteorologists said, but public safety impacts begin well before that. Even a quarter-inch of ice accumulation can cause power lines to go down, and tree limbs weighed down by ice can also fall onto power lines or equipment and result in outages. Unlike northern cities such as Chicago and New York, Texas largest cities werent built with severe winter weather in mind and historically have not prioritized preparedness in case of a winter disaster. Its tough to go backward once the infrastructure is already built, Dallas assistant emergency management coordinator Travis Houston said. After the 2021 storm, legislators passed a law requiring power companies to weatherize their facilities. But power transmission and distribution infrastructure is still not fully equipped to handle extreme weather. Whereas Midwestern and Northeastern states tend to bury their power lines below the ground, for example, the majority of the states power lines are above ground and therefore susceptible to falling tree limbs. At least one Austin City Council member already called on the city to bury its power lines. Doing so would be very expensive, Austin Energy general manager Jackie Sargent said during a Thursday press conference it likely would cost billions of dollars. Its easier to bury power lines in new developments but is costly and difficult in existing neighborhoods. Burying power lines also makes it more difficult to maintain them and pinpoint a break in the line, Sargent said. Michael Webber, an energy resources professor at the University of Texas at Austin, said burying power lines underground would be more reliable and may be worth the cost in the long run. Were cheap, Webber said. And its very expensive to be cheap. Oncor, Texas largest transmission and distribution electric company, does have some underground power lines in downtown areas, according to company spokesperson Kerri Dunn. Individual customers can, in some instances, have the power lines outside their home buried below ground, though they would usually bear the cost of doing so. In addition to being more expensive, burying power lines also makes it more challenging to conduct repairs. When you do have an outage, we can look up at the sky and see if theres something wrong with our equipment, Dunn said. When youre going underground, youre having to get folks underground into harder-to-reach areas. Despite the potential cost, Watson said Austin shouldnt immediately dismiss the idea and should consider it as part of a broader review of how to prepare Austin for future winter storms. I think the public deserves that to be looked at in a thoughtful way, Watson said. One of the factors that contributed to Austins blackout this week: trees. Live oaks, ash junipers and cedar elms alike cracked under the pressure of ice, taking the power lines down with their branches. Having a rigorous and ongoing tree-trimming effort to continually keep up with they call it vegetation management is a key contributor to providing highly reliable electricity service, said Beth Garza, senior fellow with R Street Institute and an energy expert. Power utility companies have plans to manage trees and other plants near power lines. But in some cases, the public protests the tree maintenance done by utilities. During a press conference Thursday, Austin Energy officials asked residents to be more cooperative when they come to prune. We want to be respectful of the trees and the value they bring to our communities, Dunn said. But its still very important for us to make sure were performing that trimming from a safety standpoint. So its a careful balance that we have to do. Grinding to a halt Some of Texas smaller cities including Amarillo, which sees much cooler weather than the rest of the state have found ways to better prepare for weather emergencies. Whether it destroys the power grid because of the lines down, or if youre unable to get emergency vehicles through places, ice storms are just the bane of any citys existence, said Paul Harpole, a former mayor of Amarillo. The city has worked for years on disaster preparedness. Amarillo increased the number of emergency weather sirens, retrofitted dump trucks to clear snow and can now create emergency shelters at its civic center, which can be set up with showers, food and medical supplies for a makeshift shelter overnight if need be. Additionally, several firehouses have been repositioned in Amarillo to cover more areas. In East Texas, where freezing temperatures are less common, disaster preparedness is often conducted regionally. The East Texas Council of Governments, which serves 14 counties, has an alert notification system funded by the state. The councils public safety director, Stephanie Heffner, also attends weekly phone calls with the Texas Division of Emergency Management to keep up to date on impending weather issues. After the 2021 freeze, some smaller cities within East Texas worked with the council to learn how to better equip themselves for extreme weather, including by preparing their generators and scheduling preparedness exercises for first responders. We send lots of notifications throughout the region so that folks know that no matter what comes up, they can call us, Heffner said. Even if we are not the right department, we will point them in the right direction. Other parts of the state showed fewer signs of the struggles that vexed them two years ago. The Dallas-Fort Worth region had relatively few power outages compared with Austin and generally fared better than Austin in part because of luck in weather patterns, said Houston, the Dallas emergency official. Dallas was prepared for the worst, Houston said. In February 2021, sweeping power outages knocked out the power at city facilities like libraries and recreation centers that had been set up as warming centers. This time, the city had backup generators ready to go at recreational centers that had been set up as warming centers in advance. And while the lights mostly stayed on through North Dallas, emergency workers responded to hundreds of car crashes as drivers navigated icy roads. Social media captured dozens of cars trapped or sliding across highways and overpasses. Adam Hammonds, a Texas Department of Transportation spokesperson, said the agency in recent years has bolstered its stores of brine and salt to treat roadways in order to have enough to cover longer winter storms. And after several days closed, Dallas Independent School District students will return with a delayed start time Friday. Fort Worth Independent School District students, however, will stay home after district officials decided to remain closed. It is jarring when you take a step back and look at a system and economy not even just the city of Dallas, but just North Texas and the (Dallas-Fort Worth) metroplex as a whole that something like this can send everything kind of grinding to a halt, Houston said. 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Ireland Uruguay, Eastern Republic of Uzbekistan Vanuatu Venezuela, Bolivarian Republic of Viet Nam, Socialist Republic of Wallis and Futuna Islands Western Sahara Yemen Zambia, Republic of Zimbabwe Turkey's concern over the US F-35 sale to Greece is highlighted by stating that Washington could lose neutrality and that NATO is compromised. The Turks also noted its opposition to the acquisition of the F-16 is another marred point in the relations of Washington and Ankara on a Tuesday. Turkey Says F-35 Sale Could End US Neutrality The Turkish spokesman said that the F-16 sale has conditions attached to it, reported ANews. They are rumors, and evaluations are alleged, added no such demands were issued based on their assessment. Ibrahim Kalin, the representative of Ankara, spoke to the press about the matter. He stressed that if Sen. Bob Menendez places demand in Congress but is okay with the F-35 request, then NATO will have an impartial member. Such a condition is an insult to his country. One point made clear by Kalin is the F-16 deal is separate from the NATO bid of Sweden and Finland. No deal if the Biden administration bundles them. A request in 2021 for the sale of 40 F-16S with upgrade kits, the state department had told Congress of the probable sale, according to VOA News. Turkish officials say it benefits NATO as well too. Kalin said that the Turk's defense industry would go on its own to acquire capabilities to secure the country. When asked if the request was at its end, he added it would continue, stressing that the US administration is going in their direction, but their US Congress needs to be overcome. Read Also: Turkey F-16 Deal Not Linked To Sweden, Finland NATO Bid Russia, Turkey, and Syria Trilateral Meeting One of the points of this tri-nation summit is whether Iran can be included as a possible participant, noting that Tehran, as part of it, is very welcome, citing Yeni Safak. The Turk should note that Iran is a major player in the Middle East and is a crucial part of the Syrian resolution, with Moscow as a mediator. Erdogan mentioned the trilateral meeting for Syrian concerns. But the exact date and the venue are not set, with its ministers yet to discuss the urgent matter after the outbreak of war in Syria in 2011. Last year on December 28, their respective defense ministers were in Moscow to discuss fighting terrorists in Syria, agreeing to continue their meeting on Syria's stability in the regions beyond it. Kalin verified that all parties did agree to what followed next. Ankara's Role in the Russia-Ukraine Conflict Kalin said that his government is trying its best to coax all parties to talk and stop fighting, as diplomacy is more crucial than ever. A notable point of the argument is that all global effort to end the conflict is needed for an acceptable solution for all involved. The goal is to end the war so Ukraine can rebuild based on the deals made during negotiations. The transfer of POWs to their respective nations is a major talking point of concern. He called attention to the efforts put forward by President Erdogan for solid results. Ankara has been lauded for attempts to settle the conflict ripping Ukraine in parts despite mediation attempts. Turkey says that the US F-35 sale to Greece will compromise NATO neutrality forever. Related Article: US Says Ankara Will Not Get Last Generation F-16s @ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. VMware ESXi hypervisors are the target of a new wave of attacks designed to deploy ransomware on compromised systems. "These attack campaigns appear to exploit CVE-2021-21974, for which a patch has been available since February 23, 2021," the Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT) of France said in an advisory on Friday. VMware, in its own alert released at the time, described the issue as an OpenSLP heap-overflow vulnerability that could lead to the execution of arbitrary code. "A malicious actor residing within the same network segment as ESXi who has access to port 427 may be able to trigger the heap-overflow issue in OpenSLP service resulting in remote code execution," the virtualization services provider noted. French cloud services provider OVHcloud said the attacks are being detected globally with a specific focus on Europe. It's being suspected that the intrusions are related to a new Rust-based ransomware strain called Nevada that emerged on the scene in December 2022. Other ransomware families that are known to have embraced Rust in recent months include BlackCat, Hive, Luna, Nokoyawa, RansomExx, and Agenda. "The actors are inviting both Russian- and English-speaking affiliates to collaborate with a big number of Initial Access Brokers (IABs) in [the] dark web," Resecurity said last month. UPCOMING WEBINAR Master the Art of Dark Web Intelligence Gathering Learn the art of extracting threat intelligence from the dark web Join this expert-led webinar! Save My Seat! "Notably, the group behind the Nevada ransomware is also buying compromised access by themselves, the group has a dedicated team for post-exploitation, and for conducting network intrusions into the targets of interest." However, Bleeping Computer reports that the ransom notes seen in the attacks bear no similarities to Nevada ransomware, adding the strain is being tracked under the name ESXiArgs. Users are recommended to upgrade to the latest version of ESXi to mitigate potential threats as well as restrict access to the OpenSLP service to trusted IP addresses. Update: OVHcloud, over the weekend, confirmed that the ransomware attacks leveraged a vulnerability in OpenSLP as an initial compromise vector. The company, however, said it cannot confirm if it entailed the abuse of CVE-2021-21974 at this stage. It also backtracked on initial findings that suggested a plausible link to Nevada ransomware. Ongoing Sisters, featuring paintings by Dorothy Lambert-Uhrmacher and photographs from Donna Lambert, Feb. 4 through March 3, Grand Island Public Library Art Alcove, 1124 W. Second St. Library hours: 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday and Tuesday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday, and 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday; 308-385-5333. Witnessing a Watershed, featuring multimedia selections from the Platte Basin Timelapse project, through Feb. 23, Walker Art Gallery, Fine Arts Building, University of Nebraska at Kearney. Gallery hours: 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday; free admissions. Saturday, Feb. 4 Nebraska Muzzleloaders 56th annual Gun and Sport Show, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, Pinnacle Bank Expo Center, Fonner Park. Show will feature more than 350 tales with dealers and exhibitors from across the country. Admission is $5; children 11 and younger admitted free when accompanied by an adult; www.HeartlandEventsCenter.com. Isnt It Romantic? A Look at Valentine History and Sentiments, a Stuhr-pendous Saturday program presented by Kay Cynova, 2 p.m., Stuhr Museum. Part of a series of programs focusing on different aspects of the museum, running through April. Included in regular admission, $14 for adults, $13 for seniors 60 and older, and $12 for youth age 6 to 12; 308-385-5316 or www.stuhrmuseum.org DeJa Vu, dance to the music of one of Nebraskas best variety rock bands, 8 p.m. to midnight, the Platt Duetsche, 1315 W. Anna. No cover charge and open to non-members; 308-382-0586. Merrick County drive-thru food bank, 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. (or until food is gone), Central City Municipal Airport, 1346 Ormsby Road, Central City (note location change). Perishable and nonperishable food provided by Food Bank for the Heartland in Omaha will be available. Drivers should stay in their vehicles and volunteers will put the food in the trunk or backseat; 308-946-2853. Sunday, Feb. 5 Aebleskiver feed, 4 to 6 p.m., St. Johns Lutheran Church, 2174 N. T Road, Marquette. Event also includes a performance by students in the Central City Music Department at 6 p.m., and a raffle to benefit the food pantry and confirmands camp fees; Justise Rhoden, 402-694-6911. Wood River Community Choir organizational meeting, 4 p.m., St. Marys Catholic Church, 11th and Dodd streets, Wood River. Choir will be performing an Easter cantata on Palm Sunday, April 2; Vince Boudreau, director, 308-583-2961 or mvboudreau@aol.com Bingo, 2 p.m., United Veterans Club, 1914 W. Capital. Doors open at 1; open to the public; 308-381-1555. Bingo, hosted by Knights of Columbus, Council No. 1159, 7:30 p.m., St. Marys Cathedral Square, 112 S. Cedar. Bill threatens local control Local control and keeping our families together essential aspects of The Good Life in Nebraska are threatened by LB 662. Imagine this waking nightmare: your water is contaminated, your rural road is overrun and torn up by heavy trucks and semi-trailers, your property has become nearly unlivable and so devalued that you may never be able to sell it, and your air is polluted by noise, odor, and particulates that sicken you, your family and your pets. Sounds unimaginable, right? Now, add this: you have no legal recourse against the operation that caused this nuisance unless you own a majority interest in land thats affected by it AND your property is no farther than a half-mile from the nuisance-creating operation AND you file a lawsuit no later than one year after the awful conditions reach the level that they are considered a legal nuisance. LB 662 protects multi-billion-dollar corporate livestock producers from legal liability for the damage they do to their neighbors except for a small class of majority property owners who also live less than -mile from the offensive operation. LB 662 will: * Restrict the fundamental right of Nebraskans to the peaceful use and quiet enjoyment of their own homes. * Discourage housing development, impeding economic growth and opportunity. * Limit the traditional and normally inviolable authority of local governments to decide how best to serve and protect their residents and businesses to make their cities more livable and inviting to young families whose parents would like to see them stay in Nebraska. * Make Nebraska an investment target to out-of-state and foreign interests to own and operate nuisance-creating agricultural operations that are protected from legal liability and located as far as possible from their own homes and shores. Nebraskans should email state senators urging opposition to LB 662. Nancy Meyer Cedar Bluffs Thank you, attendees A huge thank you to the over 150 people who attended the Hargis open house on Jan. 15. We are grateful for and overwhelmed by the support weve received and appreciate all who came to walk through this Queen Anne beauty. As a nonprofit, we are working to restore this Grand Island historic landmark in addition to our 125th anniversary. During this are accepting financial and in-kind donations along with donations of furnishings for the period 1890-1920. We invite anyone interested to join the Hargis House. Annual memberships are $50. Please call 308850-1480 with questions, to have information mailed to you or to inquire about rental opportunities. Anita Lewandowski Grand Island Roundabouts are no good Heres some facts on how dangerous roundabouts are that Mayor Roger Steele and the Grand Island City Council are unaware of or ignoring. Here are facts are just how bad the Five Points roundabout would be. A roundabout in-service review by Alfonso Montella, published by SAGE Journals, reports that in several European countries, including Italy, Germany and Great Britain, theyre having many crashes and injuries in the roundabouts by drivers looking over their shoulders and not seeing other cars. Please note this reviews is on two-lane highways. I question how semis and grain trucks would navigate the Five Points roundabout would they be able to? Drivers wont know who yields or dont as Margaret Gaughan pointed out in a World Herald Public Pulse. Fire trucks would have a hard time navigating roundabouts. The fire trucks from North Broadwell Fire Station as would the EMTs would have a very hard time getting through with cars coming from five directions. It would be very dangerous for school kids crossing Broadwell with cars coming from five directions. Drivers are going to watch out for other cars not school kids. Any accident would be a multi car accident. Tow trucks and EMTs would have a very hard time trying to get to an accident. The residents of Grand Island need to be informed of all of this and express their opposition to the Five Points roundabout to Mayor Steele and the Grand Island City Council in hopes of stopping it. Gary Kelsch Grand Island Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc. Beta Zeta Omega, Beta Sigma and Gamma Nu chapters will host their 115th Founders Day celebration at noon Saturday, Feb. 18. The event themed Soaring to Greater Heights of Stellar Service and Leadership, will be held at New Mt. Zion Baptist Church, 1785 Amelia Street in Orangeburg. It is open to the public. Founders Day is an annual celebration to commemorate the founding of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. This event will highlight the sororitys achievements internationally and Beta Zeta Omegas, Beta Sigmas and Gamma Nus achievements as local chapters. Service and sisterhood have been the cornerstone of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. since 1908. With the theme, Soaring to Greater Heights of Service and Sisterhood, the 2022-2026 administration seeks to build upon Alpha Kappa Alpha sororitys rich legacy of service by galvanizing the sisterhood of more than 300,000 members to lead on the front lines of change, education and advocacy. Dr. Dorothy Buckhanan Wilson, the 29th international president of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc., will serve as the guest speaker for the event. Buckhanan Wilson, a native of Sumter, holds an MBA degree from Clark Atlanta University and a bachelors degree in business administration, as well as an honorary doctor of humane letters degree, from Benedict College. During her term, Buckhanan Wilson led a $6 million renovation of Alpha Kappa Alphas corporate office in Chicago; increased membership 25 percent; served 40,000 high school students in the sororitys signature program, A.S.C.E.N.D. Enrichment Program; collected 1.1 million backpacks; raised $12 million for HBCUs and restored 2,200 playgrounds. Buckhanan Wilson is also a business owner, speaker and author of the popular book, You Can Lead: 30 Life Lessons to Empower the Leader Within. A book signing is scheduled for Buckhanan Wilson at the Orangeburg Country Club, 2745 Griffith Drive, 4-5:30 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 18. The public is invited to attend. Orangeburg Mayor Michael C. Butler and Johnny Wright Sr., chairman of Orangeburg County Council, will also bring remarks during the ceremony. Barbara Elliott Kirkland, president of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc. Beta Zeta Omega Chapter, said, We are excited about the upcoming International Founders Day event celebrating the sororitys sisterhood and more than a century of service to all mankind. Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc. is an international service organization that was founded on the campus of Howard University in Washington, D.C., in 1908. It is the oldest Greek-lettered organization established by African-American, college-educated women. For more information on Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority and its programs, visit www.aka1908.com. Beta Zeta Omega Chapter was chartered in Orangeburg on Dec. 19, 1934, and has distinguished itself as a premier service organization in the Orangeburg community and the region. Beta Zeta Omega Chapter is the first graduate chapter in the state of South Carolina and the second-oldest chapter in the South Atlantic Region. For more information on Beta Zeta Omega Chapter, visit akabetazetaomega.org. Beta Zeta Omega Chapter is the sponsoring chapter for the undergraduate chapters Beta Sigma at S.C. State University and Gamma Nu at Claflin University. As the oldest undergraduate chapter in South Carolina, Beta Sigma Chapter was founded on April 18, 1938. It is recognized for its continuous service to the community and university and for its high ethical and scholastic standards. For more information about Beta Sigma Chapter, visit their Instagram page: @betasigma.1938. In 1949, 15 Claflin College women of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. made a visionary stance to charter the Gamma Nu Chapter at Claflin College in Orangeburg on March 19, 1949. Since its charter, Gamma Nu has implemented programming at Claflin University and the Orangeburg communities so that Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc. can remain the pinnacle of sisterhood, scholarship and service. For more information on Gamma Nu Chapter, visit their Instagram: @GammaNuAKA1949. For more information on the 115th Founders Day celebration, please contact Founders Day Committee Chairman Andrea Jamison at 803-747-4158 or andreacjamison@gmail.com Municipal elections are coming up in the cities of Denmark and Bamberg, with early voting an option in both elections. Denmark The Denmark municipal election is set for Tuesday, Feb. 14. Only registered voters living within the city limits are eligible to vote in the election. Three Denmark City Council seats are up for election. Filing for the at-large seats ended on Dec. 16, with the following candidates having filed: Rosella Cooper, Harold Johnson, Ashley Jordan, Calvin Odom and Charnda Sanders Williams. Three at-large seats are open. So voters can vote for up to three. The three individuals who have the most votes will get the seat, said Athena Moorer, Bamberg County's director of voter registration and elections. Voters will go to the polls from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. East Denmark precinct voters will cast their ballots at the Brooker Center, located at 19 Maple Ave. in Denmark. Voters in the West Denmark precinct will vote at the Old Train Depot at 18748 Heritage Highway in Denmark. The early voting period for the election began Jan. 30 and will end on Friday, Feb. 10. Early voters can cast their ballots from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday at the Bamberg County Voter Registration Office located at 1234 North St. in Bamberg. Votes will be certified at 10 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 16 at the J. Carl Kearse Agricultural Building located at 847 Calhoun St. in Bamberg. Bamberg The Bamberg municipal elections will be held Tuesday, April 4. Only registered voters who live within the city limits of Bamberg can vote in the election. The following four offices are up for election: City Council districts 1, 2 and 3 and public works commissioner. Filing for the seats ended on Friday. The following candidates filed for the respective seats: Alan Sunday, City Council District 1; Mack Staley, City Council District 2; Lisa Peay and Corey L. Ramsey, City Council District 3; and Bo Griffin and John Taylor, Bamberg commissioner of public works. Voters will go to the polls from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Voters in the North Bamberg precinct will vote at the Bamberg Civic Center, located at 2477 Main Highway in Bamberg. Voters in the South Bamberg precinct will vote at the J. Carl Kearse Agricultural Building, located 847 Calhoun St. The early voting period for this election will begin Monday, March 20 and will end on Friday, March 31. Early voters can cast their ballots from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday at the Bamberg County Voter Registration Office located at 1234 North St. in Bamberg. Votes will be certified at 10 a.m. Thursday, April 6 at the J. Carl Kearse Agricultural Building, located at 847 Calhoun St. in Bamberg. At the polls, voters will be required to show one of the following forms of photo identification: S.C. drivers license S.C. Department of Motor Vehicles ID card S.C. Voter Registration Card with photo Federal military ID U.S. passport Weapons permit Registered voters who cannot vote in person may be eligible to vote by absentee ballot. Absentee ballots can be obtained from the Board of Elections and Voter Registration of Bamberg County by calling 803-245-3028 or emailing vote@bambergcountysc.gov. The Regional Medical Center's cancer center has been accredited. The H.F. Mabry Center for Cancer Care Wednesday announced it has been accredited by the Commission on Cancer (CoC), a program of the American College of Surgeons (ACS) for the next three years. The center was up for review Nov. 8. It had been accredited in the past, but lost the accreditation a few years ago. To earn accreditation, a cancer program is required to meet 34 of the CoC's quality care standards, according to an RMC press release. The CoC team evaluates the center through a survey process to ensure it maintains levels of excellence in the delivery of comprehensive patient-centered care. Because it is a CoC-accredited cancer center, it takes a multidisciplinary approach to treating cancer that requires consultation among surgeons, medical and radiation oncologists, diagnostic radiologists, pathologists and other cancer specialists. This multidisciplinary partnership is designed to result in improved patient care. Receiving this accreditation confirms that we are offering first-class cancer care to the communities we serve," RMC Senior Director of Physician Services Echo McAlhany said. "The team at the Mabry Center offers a full range of services from early detection and diagnosis to treatment while educating and supporting our patients and their families along their journey." "We are offering care here that is standard of care," McAlhany said. "Just like Lexington and just like MUSC, we are offering the same level of care that they are offering and that accreditation speaks to our quality and standard of care that we are providing at the Mabry Cancer Center." The accreditation also provides the center the framework for cancer center to improve its quality of patient care through various cancer-related programs that focus on the full spectrum of cancer care including prevention, early diagnosis, cancer staging, treatment, rehabilitation, life-long follow-up for recurrent disease, and end-of-life care, according to the press release. The accreditation means that patients have access to information on clinical trials and new treatments, genetic counseling, and patient-centered services including psycho-social support, a patient navigation process, and a survivorship care plan that documents the care each patient receives and seeks to improve cancer survivors quality of life, according to the press release. Mabry Center Practice Manager Hope Shay said the facility continues to provide up-to-date cancer and oncology care and radiation therapy, as well as the implementation of brachytherapy. Brachytherapy is surgical procedure with prostate cancer where a sealed radiation source is placed inside or next to the area requiring treatment. Shay said the procedure is paramount for Orangeburg and surrounding areas. "Yes maybe Lexington has it and maybe MUSC, but you are talking about an hour drive to go have the same procedure you can have right here at home," Shay said. McAlhany said the cancer center is also reopening support groups to the community. They had been shut down during the COVID pandemic. Shay said the South Carolina Cancer Alliance has worked with the hospital to provide stronger support groups. The accreditation also cites the cancer center's maintenance of a cancer registry and contributions of data to the National Cancer Data Base (NCDB), a joint program of the CoC and American Cancer Society. Data on all types of cancer are tracked and analyzed through the NCDB and used to explore trends in cancer care. The center also has access to this information which is used to create national, regional, and state benchmark reports. These reports are also used by the center with its quality improvement efforts. There are currently more than 1,500 accredited cancer programs in the U.S. and Puerto Rico, according to the press release. The center provides the public with information on the resources, services and cancer treatment experience for each cancer program through the Hospital Locator at https://www.facs.org/search/cancer-programs. Established in 1922 by the American College of Surgeons, the CoC is a consortium of professional organizations dedicated to improving patient outcomes and quality of life for cancer patients through standard setting, prevention, research, education, and the monitoring of comprehensive, quality care. Its membership includes Fellows of the American College of Surgeons. WASHINGTON A week after bitter divisions dominated a national Republican gathering, Democrats holding their own meeting are eager to showcase just how much they agree on. There will be no party chair fight since Jaime Harrison, an Orangeburg native, isnt up for re-election until 2025. There is no candidate jostling for a White House bid since President Joe Biden is expected to seek a second term. And there is no national reckoning after a surprisingly strong midterm showing. The only real point of contention for the Democratic National Committees winter meeting in Philadelphia this weekend is a proposed overhaul of the 2024 presidential primary calendar, which has angered top party leaders in New Hampshire. But even that is largely moot since Biden isnt expected to face a major challenge for the nomination. The DNC on Saturday is expected to approve a new lineup for the party's presidential primaries, deferring to Biden, who has championed South Carolina's primary opening voting on Feb. 3. New Hampshire and Nevada would jointly follow three days later, on Feb. 6, with Georgia coming next on Feb. 13 and Michigan two weeks after that. The president has argued that replacing the party's lead-off caucuses in Iowa, a majority white state, with a presidential primary in South Carolina, where nearly 27% of the population is Black, would empower the voters of color whom Democrats rely on but have taken for granted. The party is solidly behind Biden seeking a second term despite his being the oldest president in U.S. history and revelations that he may have mishandled official documents. Unity remains its mantra after Republicans took 15 ballots last month just to elect a House speaker, with GOP members nearly coming to blows on the House floor. Were fending off a Republican House thats crazy and actually defending our gains from the first years. So it just doesnt make sense to be saber-rattling right now about a future race when were all just sort of in the fight together," said Adam Green, co-founder of the Progressive Change Campaign Committee, which backed Massachusetts Sen. Elizabeth Warren, rather than Biden, in Democrats' 2020 presidential primary. Warren, Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders and other major 2020 Democratic presidential candidates say they expect Biden to run again and will support him when he makes a bid official. Sanders is instead urging the DNC to ban accepting funding from super PACs and other outside political groups during future Democratic primaries. That's an idea some Democratic elders have opposed, arguing that Republican candidates will continue to accept such financial support and that their party shouldn't "unilaterally disarm." Still, most top progressive organizations and grassroots activist groups have also shied away from suggesting Biden could face a major primary challenge. President Jimmy Carter's loss to Republican Ronald Reagan in the 1980 election followed a strong primary challenge from Sen. Edward M. Kennedy. Harrison, who rose to national prominence with an unsuccessful 2020 bid against South Carolina Sen. Lindsey Graham, will remain chair until after next year's presidential race. That's in stark contrast to Ronna McDaniel, who won another term as head of the Republican National Committee during a contentious meeting last week in California. Members openly questioned the GOP's midterm performance and former President Donald Trump's continued hold on the party. Harrison teared up during a December party rules committee meeting when Democrats' new primary calendar was first approved and predicts he may get emotional again this weekend. He recalled going to vote with his grandfather before his death in 2004 and how the U.S. Constitution once counted his Black ancestors in South Carolina as three-fifths of a person. They didnt always think I was a whole man in this state," Harrison remembered his grandfather saying, before urging him, Never let anyone tell you that you dont matter. That this president would step into the tradition of the Democratic Party go into Iowa, go into New Hampshire to say, you know what, it is now time that we elevate the voices of people like my grandfather, like my grandmother, to allow them to get a say in determining who should be president of the United States, Harrison added. For me, I was emotional because of that. But the new lineup has its detractors. New Hampshire, already a general election battleground state, has a law that mandates holding the nation's first presidential primary, which Iowa only circumvented with its caucus. Its Democrats have joined with top state Republicans in vowing to hold the nation's first presidential primary next year regardless of the DNC calendar. That raises the possibility that, if Biden were to bypass a rogue New Hampshire primary, he could lose the state to a challenger who campaigns there unopposed. Such a scenario may trigger potential embarrassment" for Biden that creates an opening for an insurgent candidate serious or not who can garner media attention and capitalize on Granite Staters' anger about being passed over, New Hampshire Democratic Party Chair Ray Buckley wrote to the DNC rules committee. DNC rules committee member Joanne Dowdell of New Hampshire seized on the same theme, noting, "This is not how any of us would like to kick off a reelection campaign." That's unlikely to keep the DNC from approving the new primary calendar. But the proposal has drawn some opposition beyond New Hampshire. Matt Hughes, a DNC member who is second vice chair of the North Carolina Democratic Party, was the first signature on a letter released Thursday to DNC members from local officials in his state, as well as Nevada, Michigan and Georgia. It urged the party to choose the first primary state from a competitive state like those four arguing that doing so would allow Democrats to concentrate campaign resources on areas that are more competitive in the general election than deeply Republican South Carolina. Hughes said such calls shouldn't be seen as defying Biden. Instead, he said, the party having an incumbent president who won't face primary opposition is the perfect time to make changes that shape future cycles. What we should be thinking about is absolutely the long-term impact. In 2024, it makes a lot of sense. This is relatively low impact," Hughes said. "This is the perfect opportunity to talk about the lineup of states without regard to possible candidates in the field, who benefits and who losses. COLUMBIA Republicans' quest to resume executions in South Carolina overcame another hurdle Thursday. The state Senate Corrections and Penology Committee approved a bill that would shield the identities of the companies that dispense the drug cocktail used to execute people on death row. The full Senate must now take up the latest effort in the state's search for a method of capital punishment. South Carolina has gone nearly 12 years without an execution. Recent sessions have seen futile attempts to begin executing the state's death row prisoners who now total 35 condemned people, including one man whose sentence dates back to 1983, according to a Feb. 2 South Carolina Department of Corrections list. South Carolina's last batch of lethal injection drugs have not been replenished since the supply expired in 2013. In lieu of that method, Gov. Henry McMaster in 2021 signed a law giving condemned prisoners the choice between death by a newly created firing squad or the electric chair. But that law has been placed on hold amid a challenge from death row prisoners who have argued both methods are unconstitutionally cruel and unusual punishments. The availability of lethal injection drugs has loomed large in that case. The state Supreme Court recently compelled a judge to collect more information on the state Department of Corrections' attempts to obtain them. The justices said state lawyers failed to answer how or when officials had sought the drugs during oral arguments last month. Republican leaders have said drugmakers fearing public pressure from opposing activists are unwilling to sell to the state because South Carolina lacks a statute concealing their identities. Fourteen states have carried out nearly 90 lethal injection executions in the past five years, including Texas, Alabama and Florida. Many have shield laws. Some do not. States across the country have adopted such secrecy laws over the past decade. Similar measures have been passed in Virginia, Georgia, Ohio, Missouri and Arkansas. The debate in South Carolina adds to the near constant scrutiny over the death penalty around the country. A Tennessee report issued late last year found the state had failed to property test lethal injection drugs before their usage. As part of its vote Thursday, the Senate Corrections and Penology Committee stripped the proposal of language that Sen. Greg Hembree of Horry said has still given pharmaceutical companies' cold feet in other states with similar laws. The original draft allowed courts to compel identifying information upon good cause. By removing that clause, Hembree's amendment seeks to protect that information from disclosure during any legal processes. The effort is to provide that very, very strong defense or shield for those persons on the execution team or providing those substances needed for lethal injection," he said. Democratic and Republican senators raised concerns that such sweeping protections would prevent courts from acquiring key details in critical situations like botched executions. Hembree said the shield could still be pierced in such exceptional circumstances." Those concerns were shared by Joshua Malkin, a lobbyist for the ACLU of South Carolina. Malkin said the amendment's passage was a loss for accountability. This isnt even about the death penalty. This is about government transparency," Malkin said. "Even folks that the state has determined are condemned to die deserve some standard of decency. Russia is talking to Iran and negotiating the delivery of a ballistic missile batch to punish Ukraine in another offensive. Last January 30, the Armed Forces of Ukraine (AFU) spokesman revealed that Russian forces could have a delivery of Iran's ICBMS with disastrous consequences for AFU forces, already reeling from losses, Mehr News Agency reported. Iran To Deliver Ballistic Missiles to Russia The spokesman Yurii Ihnat expressed alarm that adding these ICBMs to drones, Fateh, and Zolfagher missiles would decimate their forces further, reported Eurasian Times. It indicated that Ukrainian defenses would be powerless to stop the missiles targeting their ground forces in a ballistic trajectory. Called the Iranian projectiles a threat and brought attention to suicide drones, including the Fateh and Zolfaghar, cited Pravda. He added that Russian ballistic weapons had destroyed even the western supplied weapons in the field. The Kinzhal flies ballistically, including the Kh-22, S-300, and S-400, which have the same trajectory. The only way they can counter it is by getting the Patriot PAC-3 and SAMP-T. Western publications like Reuters cited last October 22 that Moscow and Tehran agreed to ink a defense deal after the Shahed-136 ripped Ukrainian defenses and sowed terror. In the middle of October, Putin allowed drones and missiles to attack tactical targets, and Ukrainians in cities were in terror. Unidentified Iranian diplomats stated that more drones and precise missiles were on request too. Read Also: Iranian Shahed-136 UAV Shoots Down Ukrainian Air Force MiG-29 in First Air-to-Air Drone Kill Russian Arsenal Replenished by Deliveries from Tehran Based on the information, Tehran has bought 1,000 weapons that include short-ranged surface-to-surface ICBMS and assault drones to target Kievan forces. Even getting a batch of Shahed drones weeks later, the ICBMs still need to be delivered. Last year in early December, the media said no ICBMs would be on the way. One reason for no delivery is the diplomatic pressure and foreign-influenced political turmoil. Tehran will lessen the payload and effective distance of SRBMs that Moscow will receive. One resolution by the UNSC 2231 severely limits drones and missiles exported with limits till October 2023, as mentioned by Axios. But the Iranians will not be deterred by the west-dominated security council by modifying the armament to null the resolution. So, Tehran will get the Su-35S Flanker that Washington fears in its capability, more modern than the older F-15 and F-16. The Fateh-110 SRBM has a range of 300 kilometers to pass the UN rules. Also, the 700-kilometer-range Zolfaghar SRBM will be delivered to Moscow, and reports are not verified. If Moscow's arsenal gets these missiles, that will be able to smash Ukraine's infrastructure and power grids. Once these systems are used, the AFU will be in a rut on how to stop them. Russian missiles are costlier than Iran source missiles used in the theatre of combat. They are a danger to Kyiv with fast speed and bigger warheads to attack with. Terror from these weapons has made the US push allies to give air defenses to shoot them down. Kyiv is quivering when they will be deployed. Reports that Russia has been negotiating the delivery of missiles from Iran, which Ukraine sees as an alarming development as its losses mount. Related Article: Moscow Assaults Ukraine Forces with Fresh Supply of Iranian Suicide Drones @ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. (TBTCO) - Prudential Viet Nam vua cong bo chinh thuc Bao cao tai chinh Thuong nien nam 2022, khang inh chien luoc dai han lay khach hang lam trong tam em lai nhung thanh qua kinh doanh ang tu hao voi nhung chi so an tuong: Tong tai san at 161.750 ty ong, tang 9,2%; trong o tai san au tu vao nen kinh te at 143.821 ty ong, tang 11%. Doanh thu thuan tu hoat ong kinh doanh bao hiem at 30.557 ty ong, tang 8,1%. Doanh thu phi quy nam cua hop ong khai thac moi at 6.977 ty ong, tang 25,7%. Bien thanh khoan at hon 160%. CHEYENNE Another attempt to defund the University of Wyomings gender studies program failed in the House after a passionate debate that touched on academic freedom, morality and the states suffragist history. The budget amendment, brought forth by freshmen lawmakers Reps. Jeanette Ward, R-Casper, and Tomi Strock, R-Douglas, came as the Legislature wrapped up discussion of amendments to the supplemental budget bill. The University of Wyoming is a land grant university, and programs like this were not the intention for the direction of the university when it was formed, Ward said on the House floor Friday. The House Rules Committee convened briefly before the floor debated the proposal to decide if it was germane to the budget bill. After determining that it was, lawmakers debated the amendment for roughly half an hour. Speaker of the House Rep. Albert Sommers, R-Pinedale, came down from his seat to speak first against the amendment. Testimony from the speaker, as the leader of the body, has particular weight. Because of that, speakers typically refrain from participating too much in debate. I think its appropriate for a university to have the studies that they deem necessary, that they deem important, Sommer said. Ive had real heartburn at times with some things at the university. But this is not the appropriate way to do this. Those who favored the amendment came back repeatedly to taxpayer dollars, telling the body that their constituents are upset some of their money is being spent on the program. We have the power of the purse within this body, so if we choose to defund this particular academic study, we can do that, Rep. Rachel Rodriguez-Williams, R-Cody, said, urging the body to vote for the amendment. Wyoming taxpayers do not have to submit to the woke agenda, Rodriguez-Williams reiterated during her second time at the stand. The people, through their elected representatives, such as me and you, can push back. Strock suggested funding the department with donations rather than tax money. Maybe its something we really need to look at, because there are many taxpayers that are very upset about this, she said. Prior attempt Sen. Cheri Steinmetz, R-Lingle, brought forward a similar amendment last year, though a legislative committee ended up replacing it with a compromise provision hatched by a joint committee. That provision requires the university to report to legislative panels on the schools general education requirements, as well as any policies or regulations that incentivize or disincentivize students to take certain coursework outside of their majors. Steinmetz described the amendment as an effort to stop teaching UW students to be activists. The same amendment also came up in the House last session but died after the rules committee deemed it not germane to the budget. Those amendments, however, solely targeted the universitys gender and womens studies department, whereas Wards proposal was much broader, taking aim at any gender studies courses, gender studies academic programs, co-curricular programs and extra-curricular programs as well. What to teach Rep. Ken Chestek, D-Laramie, took issue with that broadness, and reminded the body that the courses in question arent forced on anybody. Why should we be telling our adult students, You may not learn about this topic? he questioned. Rep. Mark Jennings, R-Sheridan, who supported the amendment, wondered what the debate would be like if the body were debating funding to teach biblical history. I wonder where this would go on that point, Jennings, an ally of the Wyoming Freedom Caucus, mused. Weve seen our culture come and go with how they view things, and this is a statement. Its not saying they cant have their capability or their opportunities to go learn, theyre just saying were not going to take taxpayer dollars and fund that. Cheyenne Republican Rep. Landen Brown passionately pushed back on Jennings speculations. Ive yet to see anybody bring an amendment that says were going to strip the university funding for the biblical studies program that is active at the University of Wyoming at this point, Brown said. (The University of Wyoming has a department of philosophy and religious studies.) At one point in time, those with a different color to our skin were deemed immoral as well. And we probably had similar conversations on this floor about things that were seeing deemed immoral. I am appalled that in this state that was the first to grant suffrage to women, in this building, we are now debating saying that they are not equal. Cheyenne Republican Rep. Dan Zwonitzer also touched on Wyomings suffragist history in his testimony prior to Browns, pointing out that defunding gender studies would also effect womens studies, since they are part of the same department. In the Equality State, were anti-women? Really? Zwonitzer said, striking a tone of incredulity. Criticism of university Its not a surprise that this amendment has come up. Some lawmakers have leveled a lot of criticism against the University of Wyoming for allowing activities and curricula that center around gender-related topics. At an October event hosted by former State Superintendent of Public Instruction Brian Schroeder, Steinmetz said that defunding the schools gender studies program would be something that some lawmakers aimed to try again this year. Ward told the Star-Tribune that she hadnt coordinated with Steinmetz, whom she said she considers a friend, on this amendment specifically. Following the universitys decision to suspend the tabling rights of a Laramie church elder for targeting a transgender student by name, Ward circulated among some lawmakers a letter condemning the schools action. Signatories of the letter 11 newly-elected lawmakers (including Strock), members of the hard-line conservative Wyoming Freedom Caucus and Secretary of State Chuck Gray demanded the school to reverse the direction that the culture of our university is taking. Colleges in general need to lose their wokeness and focus on serious academic inquiry or they are fast undermining their legitimacy, Ward said in a December email to the Star-Tribune regarding the letter. Though she hadnt visited the university at that time, she said she had learned about the schools culture from a friend who was a student there. Ward repeated much the same message on Friday. UW needs to return to serious academic inquiry, she told the Star-Tribune prior to the vote. Ward began her explanation of the bill by referring back to the tabling incident at UW before Sommers stopped her, reminding her to keep discussion on the amendment. Ward told the Star-Tribune prior to the vote that she hadnt communicated with the university specifically about the amendment. When asked if there were other departments or areas of study at the university she found concerning, Ward said she intends to focus just on gender studies for now. Ive heard a lot of mentioning of the free exchange of ideas versus the suppression of ideas, Ward said in her closing statement before the vote was taken, saying that these programs and the people in charge of them restrict ideas over other ideas. If were going to talk about the free expression of ideas, we need to have all ideas allowed to be expressed. This article has been updated. PHOTOS: University of Wyoming community responds to breezeway incident University of Wyoming University of Wyoming University of Wyoming University of Wyoming University of Wyoming University of Wyoming University of Wyoming University of Wyoming University of Wyoming University of Wyoming Riley Skorcz Todd Schmidt Todd Schmidt University of Wyoming CHEYENNE While the last day for bills to come out of the Committee of the Whole in each chamber quickly approaches, it appears the sole Medicaid expansion bill will not be heard in the House of Representatives. House Majority Floor Leader Rep. Chip Neiman, R-Hulett, told the Wyoming Tribune Eagle on Friday that he will not allow House Bill 80 on the floor for debate before the Monday deadline passes. The decision comes after more than two weeks of the legislation waiting on general file, as Neiman weighed whether he believed it was the right policy decision for the state. He said at this point he has had too many lawmakers tell him not to move forward with the bill, because they couldnt believe the federal government would continue to keep its federal match in place. Neiman said there was a consensus it would be irresponsible to fund the program further, which could lead to potentially pulling funding from education or other areas. The northeastern Wyoming lawmaker also voiced his concerns for the future of consistent funding in the wake of the states reliance on extractive industries. Everyones hollering carbon neutral right now, he said. Well, you know what carbon neutral means to Wyoming? A major reduction in our ability to be able to pay our bills. So, if were going to add on something like that, just help me understand how were going to pay for it. Matter of trust This was a highly emphasized piece of his argument in opposition to the bill, and it came down to a matter of trust. As legislators, we need to recognize that we cannot be making promises that we dont know if we can keep, and especially when were making promises based on what somebody else said, Neiman told the WTE. Im very concerned about whether or not theyre willing to keep their word. I dont worry about Wyoming; Wyoming will keep its word. But when we start relying on others, were not as certain if theyll keep their word. Thats where the problem is. He said there was no one coming to him with long-term solutions for the funding, even as they expressed support for HB 80 and the need for more health care options in the state. When asked whether he believed it was the responsibility of fellow lawmakers or constituents to present policy options for funding, he said it came down to those asking for the coverage. Neiman wasnt sure how much residents were willing to risk tax restructuring if the federal government failed to follow through on its promise, such as paying income taxes, or additional property and sales taxes to offset the added expense. It was these questions plaguing his decision for movement on the bill. I would say it needs to be the same people that want the item, he said. Its no different than lets say, OK, you want a new vehicle? How are you going to pay for it? Although the Wyoming Department of Health projected an initial biennial appropriation of $22 million for the expansion, and $177 million in federal funding, he said it would only grow with time and require further maintenance of effort. Medicaid postpartum coverage Neiman had a similar perspective when it came to House Bill 4, another piece of legislation he has been holding back for weeks. The bill would temporarily extend Medicaid coverage for postpartum mothers up to a year after giving birth until 2027, because the current standard is two months. I struggle sometimes to wonder exactly how much its necessary and how much they need it, he said. And Ive been told by multiple legislators theres like 10 or 12 other services that they can dip into right now that provide the services for mental health and some of the longer term, after 60-day care. But I think thats something that Wyoming can do. Not only was he uncomfortable with taking more money out of the general fund for the extension, he didnt want to provide a program, only to later take it away. Despite his wariness when it came to the bill, he said he has had many lawmakers reach out and ask him to bring it to the floor. Neiman said if he were to agree to allowing a debate, it would take place on Monday. His openness to HB 4 was backed Friday evening when Rep. Steve Harshman, R-Casper, withdrew his supplemental budget amendment on third reading related to the issue. Harshmans amendment would have done the same thing as HB 4, but he said he was assured by House leadership it would see the light of day come next week. Another chance for Medicaid expansion was not as welcome. Sen. Cale Case, R-Lander, made a plea to the Senate on second reading of the supplemental government appropriations bill to pass an amendment expanding the program. He was met with resistance, and it died leaving no other opportunities in the 2023 general session to end a decade-long fight. Health care advocacy Both Medicaid expansion and postpartum coverage extensions have been supported widely by the public, and advocacy efforts have been led by Healthy Wyoming. Healthy Wyoming Director Ana Marchese told the WTE she was disappointed with Neimans final decision to refuse to allow HB 80 on the floor. She said the organization is always concerned when legislators refuse to even have a discussion after constituents show strong support for policies, as was revealed in an American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network poll that showed 66% of Republicans wanted Medicaid expansion. She said the Legislature owes constituents an opportunity for open debate, and there would be consequences for it not passing. Lack of expansion will mean that roughly 19,000 low-income Wyomingites wont have access to affordable health care, she said. This translates into higher uncompensated costs for our rural hospitals, which greatly increases the likelihood of closure. Marchese wasnt the only stakeholder rooting for both HB 80 and HB 4. Wyoming Womens Foundation Director Rebekah Hazelton and policy associate Marissa Carpio saw the merits in the legislation for improving maternal health in the state and ensuring women have access to health care. She said the two issues often intertwine as there are far fewer mothers without health insurance in states that have expanded Medicaid and support young women working. Hazelton and Carpio were especially involved in developing HB 4, which was sponsored by the Joint Labor, Health and Social Services Committee in response to an interim topic. One of the biggest things that weve seen is the damage of insurance turnover on new mothers, Carpio said. So, in the Department of Healths presentation over the summer, we found that almost one in five women lose insurance completely after three months, which is very damaging for a person that still is dealing with pregnancy complications, or just trying to get back healthy, go back to work and take care of their kids. Hazelton added it is important to help mothers after their babies are born as much as possible, because it leads to successful and supported children. The other program thats often pointed to as an insurance benefit or option for women that are coming off the pregnant women Medicaid program is Pregnant by Choice, and thats also known as the family planning waiver, said Hazelton. That is not comprehensive health care. That covers some reproductive health and contraception costs, but, for instance, doesnt cover mental health services, doesnt cover if your appendix burst or something like that just general health issues. Although Medicaid expansion is not an option to better support women this year, they are hopeful for HB 4 in the upcoming week. Marchese advocated for the bill, too, and said Healthy Wyoming is optimistic that lawmakers will join the governor and support postpartum care extension in the state. Leaderships responsibility It will come down to the scheduling of the bills on the Monday deadline by Neiman, who said he recognized the reality of the decisions he makes. He was overwhelmed with emotion as the fourth week of the general session came to the end, and spoke candidly about his responsibility as both a lawmaker and leader. I have to take everything into account, he said. Its really easy to give people whatever they want. Thats the easy road. He said he derived no pleasure from denying anyone what they desire, and it breaks his heart when people are struggling. Neiman said he doesnt understand their situation or fully comprehend what residents are going through because hes not in their shoes. But the same people that would ask for me to have empathy, he said, I would ask for them to have a little empathy for somebody that is having to try to figure out how to make this work for everybody. The long-term future of the state continues to be his focus, he said, adding he struggles to watch legislators that are willing to spend money away from what people need right now and on appropriations he deems unnecessary. He wants legislators to be responsible and consider the consequences of their actions. He said to look at Montana post-Medicaid expansion and evaluate its spending on the program. Neiman said the Legislature should be proactive about learning from others mistakes and that he has never been someone to run straight ahead and hope for the best. He feels charged with a responsibility to make sure constituents arent hurt in the process. That was the reason for his decision this year, but it doesnt mean the end. We will try again next year. The Healthy Wyoming coalition will continue to advocate for Medicaid expansion and postpartum expansion until all low-income Wyomingites have access to affordable health care, said director Marchese. It may have been 10 years, but were not tired, and were not giving up. PHOTOS: Advocates push for Medicaid expansion at the Wyoming Capitol Expand Medicaid Rally Expand Medicaid Rally Expand Medicaid Rally Expand Medicaid Rally Expand Medicaid Rally Expand Medicaid Rally Expand Medicaid Rally Expand Medicaid Rally Expand Medicaid Rally Expand Medicaid Rally Expand Medicaid Rally Expand Medicaid Rally Expand Medicaid Rally Expand Medicaid Rally A Wyoming Highway Patrol trooper suffered injuries on Friday when a semi-truck struck the back of his patrol vehicle. The trooper was inside his car at the time of the crash. He was taken to Memorial Hospital of Converse County for what the highway patrol described as non-life-threatening injuries. The truck driver, meanwhile, received a citation for driving too fast for the conditions, the patrol reported. The crash occurred at about 6:40 p.m. while the trooper, who was from Douglas, was parked on the side of Highway 59 in eastern Wyoming. The trooper, who was not identified, was helping multiple drivers whose vehicles had slid off the road due to the conditions. The semi-truck was traveling north when the driver, who was not identified by the patrol, lost control and struck the trooper's vehicle. The truck driver was not injured. A state-by-state breakdown of crashes involving large trucks Crashes involving large trucks #51. District of Columbia #50. Massachusetts #49. Hawaii #48. New York #47. New Jersey #46. Vermont #45. Rhode Island #44. Connecticut #43. Michigan #42. Washington #41. New Hampshire #40. Delaware #39. Maryland #38. California #37. Nevada #36. Minnesota #35. Wisconsin #34. Pennsylvania #33. Utah #32. Ohio #31. Colorado #30. Virginia #29. Illinois #28. Alaska #27. Maine #26. North Carolina #25. Oregon #24. Arizona #23. Florida #22. West Virginia #21. Missouri #20. Iowa #19. Louisiana #18. Texas #17. Georgia #16. Indiana #15. North Dakota #14. South Carolina #13. Kansas #12. Oklahoma #11. Tennessee #10. Montana #9. Kentucky #8. New Mexico #7. Idaho #6. Nebraska #5. South Dakota #4. Alabama #3. Arkansas #2. Mississippi #1. Wyoming An ex-MEP and Hungarian politician said Russian victory in Ukraine would bring post-war benefits for not condemning Moscow. Benedek Javor spoke to Euractiv and expressed hope that changes in the regional borders will be done after. Ex-MEP Expects Russia To Win Budapest sees a trend that a victory by Russia in Kyiv will be inevitable and avoids shooting itself in the foot by joining reckless sanctions. As an EU member, it became the focus of pressure, noted DW. Winning over the west supported the Zelensky government, and its fall would lead to occupation and annexing of the Podkarpackie region, stated Javor. When asked if the plan was official and responded it was not, former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev considered it after the sundering of the Ukrainian state. Moscow can quarter it amongst Poland, Slovakia, Hungary, and Romania. He added that Budapest sees adhering to this course of action in talks with Hungarian politicos as accepted, but Prime Minister Viktor Orban did not go public with this viewpoint. The Hungarian PM remarked the former MEP has braved criticism from Brussels and did not support oil and natural gas sanctions due to blackmail because dependence on Russia with abundant energy supplies benefits the Hungarian people, mentioned Reuters. He explained that cooperation with Moscow allows easy access to oil conduits like the Croatian Adriatic pipeline and oil imports from Austria. It is not only Russia's oil, but others can be tapped in severe conditions. But natural gas is hard to come by, with fewer options for alternatives, so Budapest has to get 90% of its gas from there. Linking up with gas supplies from Austria, Slovakia, Croatia, Romania, and Serbia is still an option. Read Also: Hungarian, Serbian Governments Invest in Pipeline The contract with Gazprom for 10+5 years was signed in the fall of 2021 before the Ukrainian conflict. Hungarian commitment is solid to keep it, not suspend it. Hungary, Austria Will Not Arm Ukraine Two European countries have decided not to go with many EU states that have opted not to give the Ukrainians more arms to resupply the busted equipment. Decided on this action to lessen escalation of the conflict further, mention Anadolu. The statement came from the Hungarian Defense Minister Kristof Szalay-Bobrovniczky when a joint news conference with Austrian counterpart Klaudia Tanner in Budapest last Monday. He made it clear, despite reprisals and pressure from EU members, Brussels, and external forces, that they will not change their stand on the Ukrainian conflict that began in the Donbas last year. Szalay-Bobrovniczky and Austria want their countries to stay out of the quagmire called Ukraine, which has undone Europe but made it clear if aid for war victims is needed, they will give humanitarian assistance to those in need. Tanner, the Austrian representative, stressed that the conflict could spill over Europe, which is dangerous. Brussels' furtherance of US policy on Russia is something the two countries do not support. Hungary gains post-war rewards if Russia wins out and defeats Kyiv, remarked the ex-MEP, as the long game of Orban. Related Article: Austrian Chancellor Says US-Influenced Russian Gas Embargo Is Detrimental to the EU @ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced Wednesday that it will spend a year reassessing the threatened status and associated Endangered Species Act protections of grizzly bears in Wyoming and neighboring states. Its a step toward victory for Wyoming officials, who see the species as recovered and have called for years for management to be returned to the state level, and a blow to conservation groups advocating for continued federal oversight. The decision comes about a year after Wyoming filed a petition asking the Fish and Wildlife Service to delist grizzlies many months later than expected. Montana and Idaho, the other states encompassing the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, also support delisting. Wyomings petition shows that after 46 years, and over $52 million dollars of investment by Wyoming sportsmen and women the population of the bear is far above long-established recovery goals, Gov. Mark Gordon said in a statement. I hope that Wyoming will soon manage this species as part of our treasured wildlife populations, Gordon added. U.S. Sen. Cynthia Lummis, R-Wyo., argued in a separate statement that grizzly bears are an essential part of Wyomings ecosystem, but keeping them listed hurts their population more than it helps them. The Wyoming Game and Fish Department stands ready to manage this population with robust public involvement and the best science at a moments notice, Director Brian Nesvik said in a statement. There are roughly 1,000 grizzly bears in the region, according to recent estimates. Many in the state believe thats already too many. Others say its barely enough and fear that the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem states, given the opportunity, will quickly drive the population back down. Opponents of delisting pointed to the controversial wolf hunts in Montana and Idaho and past efforts to allow grizzly hunting in all three states as evidence that the Fish and Wildlife Service should retain control. Grizzly bears have come back from the brink since receiving federal protection in 1975, but the recovery of these imperiled bears still has a long way to go, said Andrea Zaccardi, an attorney at the Center for Biological Diversity, in a statement. Rushing the removal of federal safeguards threatens to undo decades of work to recover these bears. Scott Christensen, executive director of the Greater Yellowstone Coalition, a regional advocacy group, called the bears resurgence a true conservation success story in a statement. He added that engaging in this process to ensure the best outcomes possible for bears will be a top priority for the organization in the year ahead. Telecoms provider Flow will increase prices next month. In a notice to its customers on Wednesday, Flow said the 3.5-per cent increase in its Internet and cable packages will come into effect on May 1. Another notice was sent to customers with multiple cable boxes via e-mail on Wednesday. Your childs education should be a family priority, according to Kimarie Richardson-Thomas, who has taught for 23 years in the public school system. Richardson-Thomas is the Academic Dean at Goodwood Secondary School, and teaches English Language, English Literature, and CAPE Communication Studies. Close Get email notifications on {{subject}} daily! Your notification has been saved. There was a problem saving your notification. {{description}} Email notifications are only sent once a day, and only if there are new matching items. The Government needs to promote discussion and engage the public more on initiatives that have major implications for the people and society of Trinidad and Tobago. One example is the current push towards a cashless society in a world touted as one of financial inclusion. This initiative is being led by the Trinidad and Tobago International Financial Centre (TTIFC), which heads the Governments digitalisation initiatives in the financial services sector, and Visa, one of the worlds biggest names in digital payments. The United States government is mounting pressure on its Middle East allies to curb Russia's war machine from evading sanctions designed to force it to stop its war on Ukraine. On Monday, a top US Treasury official traveled to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to warn the regional business hub that assisting Moscow in evading sanctions would be met with consequences. US Pressure on Allies Brian E. Nelson, the Under Secretary of the Treasury for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence met with senior government officials from various UAE ministries. It was there where he discussed "rooting out evasion of US sanctions, particularly on Russia and India." He is also expected to talk about the US government's commitment to implement more sanctions against parties trying to evade or facilitate the evasion of sanctions. Previously, the US Treasury warned that individuals and institutions operating under permissive jurisdictions, including the UAE and Turkey, could potentially lose access to G7 markets for conducting business with sanctioned entities or failing to maintain due diligence against illicit finance, as per CNN. The countries that are a part of the G7 are Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States. Since Russia's invasion of Ukraine began, the Gulf state has been on thin ice regarding relations with Washington and Moscow. It opted to remain neutral as it views the world order as moving toward multi-polarity. The US government has repeatedly called on its Middle Eastern allies to shore up support for its efforts to curb Moscow's war machine. However, a public threat of consequences against a close ally like the UAE is considered a rare move. The global head of sanctions, compliance, and risk at the Association of Certified Anti-Money Laundering Specialists (ACAMS), Justine Walker, said that the world order is now a bit more about sending a message and indicating the gravity of the situation. She added that if an entity were going to deal in business with Russia, it would not be able to do business with the United States. Since the invasion, the UAE has become the top Arab destination for Russian investors, causing the Gulf state's real estate market to surge. Read Also: North Korea To Send Personnel to Russian-Occupied Area in Ukraine Curbing the Russian Economy On top of warning the UAE, Nelson also met with Turkish officials in an attempt to clamp down on the flood of goods to Russia. According to Bloomberg, American authorities warned that the defense industry could use tens of millions of dollars worth of export-controlled goods traveling to Russia to extend the war on Ukraine. From March to October last year, dozens of Turkish exporters sent roughly $800 million worth of goods to Moscow. This includes about $300 million in machinery and another $80 million in electronics. Despite the claims, officials from Turkey's trade and finance ministries did not immediately respond to comments regarding the matter. The US government has also ramped up pressure to have Middle Eastern allies expel the Wagner Group, a military contractor with close relations with Russian President Vladimir Putin, said France24. Related Article: China Confirms Mysterious Balloon Over US is Chinese @ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. Arizonas nursing crisis is getting a large dose of funds to help address significant staffing shortages, and entice more people to pursue nursing degrees. The states Department of Health Services has awarded $43.1 million in grants to five Arizona nursing programs. The University of Arizonas scholarships will cover tuition and fees for up to 158 prospective nurses to attend its nursing colleges graduate-level program. The UA received just under $9.2 million. Nursing shortages have made it necessary not only to get more people into the field, but to help them stay in it, said Connie Miller, a UA nursing professor and chair of the colleges general nursing and health education division. We need to do more than just train nurses, she said. We have to prepare them for working in such a busy and challenging health-care workforce. The UA will admit 48 nursing scholarship recipients three times a year at both its Tucson and Gilbert campuses. Students who are awarded a scholarship will be required to work as nurses in Arizona for four years after graduation. The university has been preparing to increase enrollments, with the nursing colleges Gilbert location recently doubling in size from 17,500 square feet to 35,000 square feet to handle more students. A recent study by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services shows 3.6 million nurses are going to be needed by 2030, an increase of nearly 30% from the 2.8 million that are needed now across the country. After the pandemic, its gotten worse, obviously, Miller said. Weve really come to this alarming and critical point right now. The vacancy rate for registered nurses in U.S. hospitals was about 10% in 2022, according to a National Health Care Retention Report. These challenges with worker retention have caused a shift in training, with aspects of the UA curriculum now focusing more on resilience skills, Miller said. We want them to grow, we want them to thrive, and we want them to stay in the profession, she said. We have to really do something now. Its alarming. The UAs master of nursing program was launched here in 2011, and more than 1,100 people have graduated with a masters degree in nursing so far. The states health department provided scholarship funding to be used in programs designed to allow students to complete entry-level nursing degrees in 12 to 18 months. Both in-state and out-of-state residents are eligible for a full scholarship. People who are interested in learning more about the scholarships can check for updates online at nursing.arizona.edu or email con-osaa@email.arizona.edu. Migrating birds navigate across oceans and continents using atoms called radical pairs that guide them like a compass. These atoms lose or gain electrons in unison, then the earths magnetic field thrusts them, spinning, changing directions, into a waltz that is over in one-millionth of a second. Proteins and chemicals in birds eyes perceive this dance, and it leads them home. Krem Miskevich, the chef behind new-to-Tucson pop-up Good Pierogi, loves to dance. The connections they have made through feeding people have cast them across the globe before landing here. I am able to connect with people, whether strangers or friends, in the best way, which is by feeding them, they said. If I could just not talk and just sing and dance, thats when Id be happiest. Good Pierogi is a nomadic operation. Krem has migrated between continents, and across them, many times. Though theyre not the kind of person who likes doing the same thing over and over again, they decided to go into the business of pierogi because it was the pandemic, dumplings make people happy and they missed the ones they grew up eating in Poland. Nostalgia for Poland is what made me make Good Pierogi. Out west, theres no good Polish food. I miss the food. I miss my friends, Krem said. Good Pierogi is their dumpling pop-up. Krem launched it in Los Angeles, the city where their dad has some family. Though Krem brings the pop-up to other places (for instance, when they worked as a private chef on Marthas Vineyard for the past two summers), Krem and their pierogi are settling down in Tucson. Good Pierogi recently made a farmers market debut at the Udall Park market with the choice between two flavors: the Ruskie, made with farmers cheese, potato, caramelized onions, black pepper and marjoram; or the sauerkraut and mushroom flavor with dates, mustard seeds and caramelized onion. Krem will be selling handmade frozen pierogi until their custom canopy is delivered a prerequisite for selling hot food at markets hopefully in a few weeks. I always feel like Im here by accident, Krem said. Their citizenship feels coincidental: their dad was naturalized here when he came as a child; Krem didnt grow up with their dad but he took them to the U.S. Embassy when they were 18 to get their U.S. passport. My dad gave me the passport and this face, Krem said. Krem first heard about Tucson when they were a teenager in Poland, obsessed with the United States and scheming about party schools to attend with their best friend. U of A was the ultimate party school. It was to party, Krem said with a tone of admission. Krem is sober now, but the University of Arizona still was an instigating force in bringing them to Tucson. They met their partner, Anna, on Marthas Vineyard two summers ago, where Krem fled on a whim after a devastating breakup in LA. Anna was working on their masters in fine arts from the UA, and graduated last spring into a job at The Land With No Name Sanctuary. For a while, Krem would come to Tucson to rest and visit Anna. Now they live here, together. I call Anna, Anka, Krem said. Its Polish. Krem, for the first time, is ready to stay still for a bit. Im a small town boy, Krem said. Krem was miserable in LA, but LA liked Krem: its where they went to culinary school for nine months and built a career at Kismet, a Middle Eastern restaurant that has been lauded by many, including the Michelin guide and food critic Jonathan Gold. Its where Krem met the graphic designer obsessed with Polish movie posters who created Good Pierogis signature art. Its where they were first written about in the Los Angeles Times. The city burnt them out, the traffic and the anonymity not the work. I love to work, Krem said, a trait they attribute to having six planets in Capricorn. Their work is how they earn a living, but, of course, its an act of service and expression, too. I cant help it. I take great pleasure in feeding people, Krem said. But its important to me that people know I am there, too. What theyre eating is me. Krems identity is central to the project: when Krem feeds you, youre consuming (being nourished by) a part of who they are, what they create. Krem is queer and the food is queer. Krem is sober but they love and share Polish drinking food. The flavors that they elect to share and innovate upon are artifacts of their bodys memory, of the place they were raised and the flavors informed by their experience. People talk about separating art from the artist I dont think I can separate myself from my food. I cook the things I like to eat. I cook things the way I like to eat them, Krem said. I wanted to make delicious food for myself, and then it became a career path. Cooking has allowed them to live in beautiful places across two continents: Barcelona, Spain; Copenhagen, Denmark; LA; Marthas Vineyard in Massachusetts. They have hosted pop-ups in Baja California and are in talks to bring Good Pierogi to Paris for a night. Besides liking to cook, thats one reason I wanted to work in a restaurant theyre everywhere, Krem said. I wanted to get a little money to explore the place and live my life. Its not a surprise to me that my business just moves around. I subconsciously built it this way. But for now theyre seeking stability in Tucson, and to accumulate the funds needed to open a restaurant of their own. Im someone who gets easily bored with stuff. My goal is to open a bistro Eastern-European-inspired, but not married, you know? Krem said. Id like there to be a little cold case where people can grab their pierogi, the sour cream, the caviar, some sauerkraut I make, you know, pickles and all that. Maybe some smoked fish or pickled fish. And then also have a dining area, where you can eat very good food in an unfussy environment for a reasonable price. I want it to be approachable to anyone. If someone wants to spend $80 a person, they can, but if a person wants to spend 20 bucks and leave fed, they definitely will. Beef tartare, pickled fish, a Polish version of a loaded potato, smoked sausages, smoked fish, schnitzels, chicken kiev theres a lot, theres a lot, Krem said. Im just starting to get to know the Sonoran Desert. I would love to be able to incorporate what the land here gives us into Eastern-European cuisine. Apply some techniques from my country to the foods here. Lacto-fermented barrel cactus fruit. Thats the goal, down the line, Krem said. I have everything I need to do this, besides the money. Good Pierogi Hours: The farmers market at Udall Park is open 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Friday | The farmers market in Green Valley is open 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday. For more information, check out their website or Instagram or subscribe to their newsletter. Musicians perform traditional music during a celebration honoring the Wiphala, the flag that represents Andean Indigenous populations, in Cusco, Peru, Friday, Feb. 3, 2023. Peruvians have found ways to manage their daily lives even as police and protesters clash across the country amid political turmoil over the removal of former President Pedro Castillo who was later arrested for trying to dissolve Congress. (AP Photo/Rodrigo Abd) Officials of the U.S. Department of Defense confirmed on Feb. 2, 2023, that the military was tracking what it called a spy balloon that was drifting over the continental United States at an altitude of about 60,000 feet. The following day, Chinese officials acknowledged that the balloon was theirs but denied it was intended for spying or meant to enter U.S. airspace. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said that the balloons incursion led him to cancel his trip to Beijing. He had been scheduled to meet with Chinese Foreign Minister Qin Gang on Feb. 5 and 6. On February 3, the Pentagon said that a second suspected Chinese balloon was seen over Latin America. Monitoring an adversary from a balloon dates back to 1794, when the French used a hot air balloon to track Austrian and Dutch troops in the Battle of Fleurus. We asked aerospace engineer Iain Boyd of the University of Colorado Boulder to explain how spy balloons work and why anyone would use one in the 21st century. What is a spy balloon? A spy balloon is literally a gas-filled balloon that is flying quite high in the sky, more or less where we fly commercial airplanes. It has some sophisticated cameras and imaging technology on it, and its pointing all of those instruments down at the ground. Its collecting information through photography and other imaging of whatever is going on down on the ground below it. Why would someone want to use a spy balloon instead of just using spy satellites? Satellites are the preferred method of spying from overhead. Spy satellites are above us today, typically at one of two different types of orbit. The first is called low Earth orbit, and, as the name suggests, those satellites are relatively close to the ground. But theyre still several hundred miles above us. For imaging and taking photographs, the closer you are to something, the more clearly you can see it, and this applies to spying as well. The satellites that are in low Earth orbit have the advantage that theyre closer to the Earth so theyre able to see things more clearly than satellites that are farther away. The disadvantage these low Earth orbit satellites have is that they are continually moving around the Earth. It takes them about 90 minutes to do one orbit around the Earth. That turns out to be pretty fast in terms of taking clear photographs of whats going on below. The second type of satellite orbit is called geosynchronous orbit, and thats much farther away. It has the disadvantage that its harder to see things clearly when youre very, very far away. But they have the advantage of what we call persistence, allowing satellites to capture images continuously. In those orbits, youre essentially overlooking the exact same piece of ground on the Earths surface all the time because the satellite moves in exactly the same way the earth rotates it rotates at the exact same speed. A U.S. satellite photo showing a Soviet submarine in port in 1982. National Reconnaissance Office A balloon in some ways gets the best of those. These balloons are much, much closer to the ground than any of the satellites, so they can see even more clearly. And then, of course, balloons are moving, but theyre moving relatively slowly, so they also have a degree of persistence. However, spying is not usually done these days with balloons because they are a relatively easy target and are not completely controllable. What types of surveillance are spy balloons capable of? I dont know whats on this particular spy balloon, but its likely to be different kinds of cameras collecting different types of information. These days, imaging is conducted across different regions of the electromagnetic spectrum. Humans see in a certain range of this spectrum, the visible spectrum. And so if you have a camera and you take a photograph of your dog, thats a visible photograph. Thats one of the things spy aircraft do. They take regular photographs, although they have very good zoom capabilities to be able to magnify what theyre seeing quite a lot. But you can also gather different kinds of information in other parts of the electromagnetic spectrum. Another fairly well-known one is infrared. If its nighttime, a camera operating in the visible part of the spectrum is not going to show you anything. Its all going to be dark. But an infrared camera can pick up things from heat in the dark. How do these balloons navigate? Most of these balloons literally go where the wind blows. There can be a little bit of navigation, but there are certainly not people aboard them. They are at the mercy of whatever the weather is. They sometimes have guiding apparatus on them that change a balloons altitude to catch winds going in particular directions. But its pretty much wherever the winds blowing, thats where youre going. There are machine learning-types of approaches that would seek to optimize your path, so that if youre trying to get from A to B, you can get closer. But if the prevailing winds are just going completely in the opposite direction to where you want to go, theres really no way to get there with a balloon. What are the limits to a nations airspace? At what altitude does it become space and anybodys right to be there? There is an internationally accepted boundary called the Karman Line at 62 miles (100 kilometers) altitude. This balloon is well below that, so it is absolutely, definitely in U.S. airspace. Which countries are known to be using spy balloons? The Pentagon has had programs over the last few decades studying balloons, different aspects of what can be done with balloons that couldnt be in the past. Maybe theyre bigger, maybe they can go higher in the atmosphere so theyre more difficult to shoot down or disable. Maybe they could be more persistent. But Im not aware of any countries actively using spy balloons these days. There have been unconfirmed reports of potential spy balloons in Asia that have been attributed to China. The U.S. flew many balloons over the Soviet Union in the 1940s and 1950s, and those were eventually replaced by the high-altitude spy airplanes, the U-2s, and they were subsequently replaced by satellites. Project Moby Dick was an early Cold War-era effort by the U.S. to monitor the Soviet Union using high-altitude balloons. United States Air Force Public Affairs Im sure a number of countries around the world have periodically gone back to reevaluate: Are there other things we could do now with balloons that we couldnt do before? Do they close some gaps we have from satellites and airplanes? What does that say about the nature of this balloon, which China confirmed is theirs? China has complained for many years about the U.S. spying on China through satellites, through ships. And China is also well known for engaging in somewhat provocative behavior, like in the South China Sea, sailing close to other nations boundaries and saber-rattling. I think it falls into that category. The balloon doesnt pose any real threat to the U.S. I think sometimes China is just experimenting to see how far they can push things. This isnt really very advanced technology. Its not serving any real military purpose. I think its much more likely some kind of political message. GUAYMAS, SONORA Sonoran state officials are throwing cold water on a fast-moving $5.5 billion proposal to build a massive desalination plant in Puerto Penasco, Sonora, and pipe much of the water 200 miles to Arizona. Its total absurdity, Sonoran Gov. Alfonso Durazo said in a news conference last week, responding to the assertion that Sonoran officials had already given support to the projects backers. Durazo acknowledged meeting with representatives from Israel-based IDE Technologies, the company that wants to build the plant, but not to discuss shipping water to Arizona. He said the meeting was about desalination technology generally. I am not going to deny the interest that I have in knowing the technologies that exist for desalinating water, because eventually it will be a necessity in our state, he said in the Jan. 31 conference. Durazo said IDE Technologies misrepresented the meeting, and he vowed not to meet with them again. At no time was there talk of the provision of desalination to supply water to Arizona. At no time, he said. Also on Tuesday, the Sonoran state governments official Twitter account issued a series of tweets criticizing IDE Technologies for a lack of ethics and characterizing the desalination project as a collaboration between former Sonora governor Claudia Pavlovich and former Arizona governor Doug Ducey. Those tweets came in response to an El Imparcial editorial that criticized the Sonoran government for supposedly expressing support for the project without public discussion. Durazo said unless it serves the interests of Sonorans, the desalination project wont happen. My first reaction was, they are going to take the water and leave us the mess, Durazo said. Im going to defend the interests of Sonorans. That is my responsibility. Federal issue In his Tuesday comments Durazo also emphasized that water issues are in the federal domain. A week prior, Mexicos president Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador responded briefly to a reporters question about the IDE proposal. In the Jan. 24 news conference, Lopez Obrador appeared more optimistic than Durazo. He said hes aware of the proposal and that a consultation is necessary to ensure the project wouldnt affect the environment. If that possibility does not exist, there is no problem. We are authorizing everything, Lopez Obrador said. IDE response IDE Technologies attorney Jordan Rose, based in Scottsdale, did not respond to the Arizona Daily Stars email or phone calls late last week, seeking clarification on the companys communications with Mexican officials. IDEs 46-page project proposal states that the company has done its due diligence to ensure that the Sonoran government is supportive of the project moving forward. And during a Dec. 20 joint legislative water committee hearing, IDE representative Erez Hoter-Ishay told Arizona legislators that IDE had received support from both the Sonoran state government and the Mexican federal government. He said the company met with Sonoran Gov. Durazo in July 2022, to present and to answer all the questions about the environmental issues, because he wanted to have that comfort. I mean, the desalination facility will be built there. So after they received the comfort, and they contemplated, they came back with the support. Rep. Andres Cano, D-Tucson, then asked if IDE had a letter of support from Mexican officials. Hoter-Ishay said IDE has not yet requested that. Its not usually how it would be done. Its done delicately, he said. But of course there will be. Hoter-Ishay told the committee IDE must complete an environmental review in Mexico, just as it must comply with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) process in the U.S. Fast-track project On Dec. 11, IDE Technologies first contacted the chairman of a state water board, the Water Infrastructure Finance Authority of Arizona, or WIFA, about IDEs proposal for an innovative and transformative project that will supply the State of Arizona with a new assured water supply. Within nine days, WIFAs board members had voted unanimously to engage in discussions with IDE on the proposal, which would initially provide Arizona households with 300,000 acre-feet annually of desalinated water from the Sea of Cortes. IDE, which operates desalination plants across the world, including in Carlsbad, Calif., hopes to eventually expand the plant to pump 1 million acre-feet of water to Arizona each year. It would also provide water to the Sonoran cities of Nogales, Hermosillo, Sonoyta and Puerto Penasco, known in Arizona as Rocky Point. The company aims to complete permitting and construction in time to start delivering water by late 2027. Previously a small agency, WIFA was dramatically expanded last summer when the Arizona Legislature agreed to give the entity $1 billion over three years and the legal authority to approve water-augmentation projects for the state. IDEs proposal is WIFAs first major project under consideration. But the Star reported in January that critics, including state legislators, have been alarmed by the sudden emergence of the proposal and its fast-tracked consideration by the WIFA board. WIFA director Chuck Podolak said on Friday that in-depth analysis of IDEs proposal is only just beginning. I hope people dont think we are further along in this process than we are, he said in an interview. Weve had an interesting proposal, and now we are (under)taking a thorough process at WIFA to really evaluate the feasibility of this project, and whether its a good investment for us. Regarding the dust-up between IDE and Sonoras governor, he said, I think it means the projects proponents have some work to do, both in Mexico City and in (Sonoras capitol) Hermosillo. Podolak said he remains open-minded about the projects potential. If it can meet the significant hurdles for any giant, game-changing project like this, it would be phenomenal, he said. Its worth our time to continue to look at this and to continue to do our own due diligence. No room for error Former State Sen. Lisa Otondo, D-Yuma, who left office in January, has been critical of IDEs proposal, particularly its lack of detail on water costs and the appearance of backroom dealing. In a Friday interview, Otondo said Arizona urgently needs water-augmentation projects, so its crucial that efforts to develop those solutions are carried out transparently, cautiously and with good communication between potential partners. Her greatest fear is that unforced errors could undermine efforts to solve the problem of water scarcity, she said. We need to find augmentation, and theres really not a lot of room especially for political error, for the types of things that have happened now by angering the governor of Sonora, Otondo said. Theres no room for error. The apparent miscommunication with Sonoran state leadership seems likely to undermine IDEs ambitious timetable for its project, Otondo said. Never underestimate the drawing power of The Outsiders. Tommy Howell, who played Ponyboy in the 1983 Francis Ford Coppola film that was shot in Tulsa, has launched a second career as a music artist. His debut album dropped Friday and he returned to Tulsa to host an album listening party Friday on the lawn of the Outsiders House Museum. Among attendees: Elizabeth Tarter and Savannah Wommack traveled from St. Augustine, Florida. Worth it? Oh, absolutely, Tarter said. Totally worth it. The words came after Tarter and Wommack got a pleasant surprise at the listening party. Howell thanked them for coming and invited them to join him at the microphone to recite the Robert Frost poem Nothing Gold Can Stay, which, oh by the way, turned 100 this year. Nothing Gold Can Stay is a vital part of The Outsiders. Stay gold, Ponyboy. Howell and his team played recordings of three songs Whiskey Demon, Raised by Wolves and Ponygirl from his album, American Storyteller. Talking about Raised by Wolves, Howell said a girl once told him he must have been raised by wolves. He wrote a song about it. I think she probably was right, he said, drawing laughter. Cowboys are just one step above pirates anyway and I was raised by a bunch of cowboys. My father, hes my best friend. Hes still alive. Hes 76 years old. I wish he could be here right now, but hes proud as hell of what we have done -- probably more with the music than anything else. Howell, who didnt dive into music until his mid-50s, said, I have been an actor all my life. All these actors who became musicians didnt make it easy on me. I tel you what, they sure made it hard, but we are trying to do it right. We are trying to make music that people like. It has been a real journey for me. The thing I love about playing music is I get to be myself. I am not playing a role. I am not hiding behind a camera lens and wardrobe and makeup and that sort of thing, so I wear my heart on my sleeve and Ill share a piece of myself with you. Prior to the songs being played, Howell held court inside the Outsiders House Museum and he led guests on a walking tour of filming locations in the neighborhood, including Crutchfield Park and the rumble site. Howell occasionally paused to tell stories and take questions. It was clear from his interactions that he appreciates his fans. You all come here to see me, but I come here to see you, and thats really true, he said at the listening party. I appreciate all the hugs and the photographs and the exchanges that we have. I remember all that. I really do. We talk about it a lot when we go home. We carry these memories with us as well. We dont just go home and act like it didnt happen. We talk about you and it does matter. I just wanted you to know that. Thank you very much. From my heart to yours, stay gold. While at the microphone, Howell took a crowd selfie with fans who gathered for the listening party. Thats got Instagram written all over it, he said. Darren Dalton, who played soc Randy Anderson in The Outsiders, returned to Tulsa to join Howell this weekend. They forged a lasting friendship after sharing scenes in the film. Daltons brother, Eric, is a guitarist in Howells band. Howell will wrap up his scheduled Tulsa appearances Saturday night by opening for country music icon Tanya Tucker at the the Cove, the River Spirit Casinos concert venue. Its a benefit concert for Muscogee Creek Nation Veterans. To purchase tickets for yourself or veterans, go to riverspirittulsa.com. Chinowth & Cohen Realtors welcomes Dr. Carl Spengler to the Bixby office. Hailing from Amarillo and West Texas A&M, Dr. Spengler is a retired emergency room physician who lives in Broken Arrow. Spengler recently earned his real estate license and is embarking on a second career, specializing in residential properties. Chinowth and Cohen Realtors announces the addition of Jennie Larkin to its Owasso office. Larkin was born in Houston but moved to Oklahoma City as a toddler and eventually to Tulsa, where she graduated from Jenks High School. Larkin attended Oklahoma State University, obtaining a bachelor of science degree and an additional degree in criminology from the University of Texas. Larkin received her real estate license in 2022 and is familiar with all of eastern Oklahoma as well as Stillwater. She is focused on residential sales. Larkins career includes decades spent in corporate merchandising and sales, and she owns design businesses with her husband. Additionally, Larkin has a background in renovations and construction. Featured video: OKLAHOMA CITY A state lawmaker wants greater oversight of the Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Departments contracts with outside companies after the agencys questionable deal with a local barbecue chain. Rep. Danny Williams, R-Seminole, filed legislation to undo the tourism departments exemptions from competitive bidding requirements in state law that detail how agencies can hire a private business for goods or services. This comes after the state agency tasked with overseeing state contracts didnt find out about the tourism departments deal with Swadleys Bar-B-Q until more than a year after it was signed. Last year, the head of the Office of Management and Enterprise Services said his agency could not have challenged the Swadleys deal because the tourism department has legal exemptions from competitive bidding requirements. Swadleys was the only bidder when the tourism department sought a new operator for some state park restaurants. That deal is now the subject of a criminal probe by the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation. Williams said hes hopeful his House Bill 1774 can provide greater government safeguards to prevent the situation from happening again. You cant give exemptions to agencies, he said. They all need to go through the same process. ... Its not vindictive. Its not punitive. Its saying that this is the peoples money, and were responsible for that. A spokeswoman for the tourism department declined to comment on the bill. Williams served on the House Special Investigative Committee that was digging into the tourism departments deal with Swadleys. He said he is working with the committees chairman, Rep. Ryan Martinez, R-Edmond, on the agency reforms. Williams aims to eliminate all agency exemptions from competitive bidding requirements in state law. The Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affairs, the State Regents for Higher Education and the State Treasurers Office are among the agencies that have some sort of exemption. Were looking at all the exceptions, and trying to close the holes on the ones that shouldnt, in our opinion, have exceptions, he said. He also wants to recreate the Department of Central Services as a standalone agency to oversee government procurement and state contracts. In 2011, lawmakers approved legislation to fold the department into OMES. The Legislative Office of Fiscal Transparency is in the process of reviewing state agency exemptions from the Central Purchasing Act. Representatives from the watchdog office will present their findings to lawmakers in April. Williams isnt the only lawmaker looking to make reforms after the Swadleys debacle. Sen. Roger Thompson filed legislation to return hiring and firing power of the tourism departments director to the Tourism and Recreation Commission. Currently, the governor hires and fires the executive director. Featured video: OKLAHOMA CITY The head of the Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affairs on Friday refused to attend the governing boards meeting, saying the panel and meeting were illegal. It is the latest in an ongoing dispute between Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affairs Executive Director Joel Kintsel, the Oklahoma Veterans Commission, which is the agencys governing board, and Gov. Kevin Stitt. Kintsel has alleged Stitt has been replacing board members in hopes of getting him fired for running against Stitt in the gubernatorial primary. A prior board gave Kintsel a leave of absence to run. Stitt defeated Kintsel in last years Republican primary. The board met anyway Friday to discuss the need for a $21 million change order on a new $77 million veterans facility under construction in Sallisaw. The $21 million in damages were caused by a contractor who did not complete work, Kintsel said. In a letter to commission chairman Rob Allen, whom Stitt appointed, Kintsel said, at least three members of the commission, including Allen, are not lawfully appointed. The veteran service organizations that you and at least two other commissioners purport to represent have not nominated you and none of you were active members of, or in most cases, even members of the veteran service organizations you are now allegedly representing, Kintsel wrote. The governing board has nine members, all appointed by the governor, and members serve at the pleasure of the governor. They hire and fire the executive director. The governor can appoint three of the members at large. The other six seats, however, are to be represented by the American Legion, the Veterans of Foreign Wars, the Disabled American Veterans, the Paralyzed Veterans of America, the Military Order of the Purple Heart and the National Guard Association of Oklahoma. State law requires that at least one Vietnam veteran be on the commission, Kintsel wrote. As all Vietnam veterans serving on the Commission have been terminated, the Oklahoma Veterans Commission is not now legally constituted in this aspect either, Kintsel wrote. Kintel told Allen that the panel should not elect officers, set meetings, conduct meetings or vote, which could create potential liability for the state and taxpayers. Because the panel is not legally constituted, Kintsel said he would not attend Friday nor participate in any future attempts to meet and conduct business as the Oklahoma Veterans Commission. In a written response, Allen said he disagreed with Kintsels position. Kintsel provided Allens response. The public deserves to know about the impending fiscal emergency on the Sallisaw construction project, and we intend to bring all information to light, Allen wrote. Stitts office declined to comment. Featured video: A British man has been charged with treason after he confessed to threatening to assassinate the late Queen Elizabeth II on Christmas Day in 2021, said police authorities. During a Friday hearing at London's Old Bailey court, the suspect, identified as 21-year-old Jaswant Singh Chail, pleaded guilty to three charges, including treason and possession of an offensive weapon. This followed an investigation conducted by the London Metropolitan Police Counter Terrorism Command. British Man Charged with Treason Two police officers described seeing the suspect within the grounds of Windsor Castle, where the late Queen was staying at the time, at around 8:10 a.m. on December 25, 2021. He was wearing black clothes and a metal mask, said a statement issued by police. Before being arrested, Chail, who was seen in the trial via video link from Broadmoor high-security psychiatric hospital while holding a crossbow loaded with a bolt, said that he was planning to kill the Queen, as per CNN. Authorities believed the suspect to have scaled the grounds perimeter using a nylon rope ladder before being taken into custody. Officials also thought that he sent the video of him threatening to kill the late Queen to roughly 20 people. The British government charged Chail with the offenses on August 2, 2022, and the suspect is expected to receive a sentence at the Old Bailey on March 31, said the Metropolitan Police statement. The commander of the London Metropolitan Police Counter Terrorism Command, Richard Smith, said that the case was an "extremely serious incident." Police officials added that prosecutors alleged the suspect "harbored ill-feeling towards the British Empire for its past treatment of Indian people." Their statement also said that detectives were able to find surveillance video showing Chail traveling to Windsor Castle two days before the incident. Chail has become the first person in the United Kingdom to be convicted of treason since 1981. Read Also: China Confirms Mysterious Balloon Over US is Chinese Attempting To Assassinate Queen Elizabeth II When police officers encountered Chail at the grounds of Windsor Castle, one personnel took out his taser and asked the suspect, "Morning, can I help, mate?" On the other hand, Chail responded with, "I am here to kill the Queen," according to BBC. Upon hearing the suspect's statement, the protection officer immediately told Chail to drop the crossbow he was carrying, get on his knees, and put his hands on his head. The suspect immediately complied and once again said he was there to kill the Queen. Police authorities also found a note in Chail's possession that read, "Please don't remove my clothes, shoes and gloves, masks, etc. don't want post-mortem, don't want to embalm, thank you, and I'm sorry." Before entering the castle, Chail posted a video on Snapchat where he repeatedly apologized for what he was planning to do. He said it was revenge for all the people who lost their lives in the 1919 Jallianwala Bagh massacre. He added that his plans were for the people killed, humiliated, and discriminated against because of their race, said Fox News. Related Article: North Korea To Send Personnel to Russian-Occupied Area in Ukraine @ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. OKLAHOMA CITY The Oklahoma Legislature is spending $8 million to beef up security around the state Capitol. Guard shacks have been added to the House and Senate parking lots, security barriers are being installed outside the Capitol, and new lighting, cameras and fencing have been added to the buildings exterior. Lawmakers have discussed the security improvements for years, but a 2021 incident in which a man experiencing a mental health crisis drove his SUV onto the Capitol lawn created a sense of urgency, said Department of Public Safety Commissioner Tim Tipton. It stressed the point that if somebody had ill intent with some type of vehicle-borne explosive device, they could easily drive up to the building, he said. New security bollards around the Capitols perimeter will prevent anyone from driving near the building. Although it was unrelated, the incident occurred the same day about 35 people were kicked out of the House gallery after protesters began shouting at lawmakers. The two incidents occurring around the same time confused and concerned some lawmakers, said Rep. Mark McBride, R-Moore. The security upgrades were initially part of the multiyear Capitol restoration that recently concluded, he said. McBride noted in 2014 a man drove onto the Capitol lawn to run over a Ten Commandments monument that has since been moved off state property. Department of Public Safety officials made recommendations about what security enhancements were needed, he said. Oklahoma Highway Patrol troopers guard the Capitol. OHP, which is basically our security, felt that we were way too open, McBride said. We didnt have enough cameras, didnt have enough lighting to secure the building. New cameras outside the building will do away with blind spots and OHP troopers will be able to control the new outdoor lighting from inside the building, Tipton said. House and Senate personnel will man the new guard shacks in Capitols east and west parking lots. State officials and staff will have to show a badge to enter those areas. In 2017, McBride found a GPS tracker on his pickup after being warned people may be following him because he sought to raise taxes on wind energy companies. McBride said the tracker was placed on his vehicle when it was parked in the House lot. Lawmakers have assigned parking spots. The security upgrades are intended to make sure everyone who works in the building, not just elected officials, feel secure when they come to work, McBride said. We want people to come to the Capitol, he said. We want people to come and enjoy what the Capitol looks like now after weve done the rehab on it. But we want it to stay that way. The House and Senate appropriated $8 million in fiscal year 2022 for the security enhancements, said Caden Cleveland, spokesman for the Office of Management and Enterprise Services. Most of the upgrades will be complete this month, he said. Featured video: One of the worlds leading Catholic scholars and authors will be in Tulsa for two speaking engagements starting Sunday. George Weigel, biographer of Pope John Paul II, is the featured speaker for this years 36th annual Knippa Interfaith/Ecumenical Lecture. The event is set for 4 p.m. Sunday at Grace Lutheran Church. It will be held in person, with a livestream available at facebook.com/GraceLutheranTulsa. Weigel will also serve as guest speaker at an event commemorating the 50th anniversary of the Catholic Diocese of Tulsa. Its scheduled for 7 p.m. Monday at Holy Family Cathedral and is open to the public. Weigels lecture is titled The Inspiring Legacy of Vatican II for People of Many Faiths 60th Anniversary Reflections. Vatican II is a fitting topic for the Knippa series, which for over three decades has promoted understanding and respect between different religious traditions. The Second Vatican Council, as its officially known, reshaped many church practices and paved the way for new relations between Catholics and other faith groups, including Christians and non-Christians. In the history of ecumenical and interfaith efforts, the council was an important event, as it affirmed some commonly held beliefs that allow for different faith groups to cooperate in pursuit of a better world. Weigel, speaking with the Tulsa World via email, said: Vatican II robustly affirmed the reality of divine revelation, which is a very important affirmation for all people of biblical faith to make today, in a world that often scoffs at the very notion of the divine. According to Vatican II, we dont live in a world without windows, doors, or skylights we live in a world that is open to a reality greater than ourselves, he said. That is an important message for people of faith to proclaim today. Weigel whose most recent book, To Sanctify the World: The Vital Legacy of Vatican II, was released in October 2022 said the council also affirmed the inalienable dignity and value of every human life. Human beings are not just congealed stardust, destined for oblivion, he said. Belief in the dignity and value of human beings is the baseline of any decent and just society, and the root of that idea is biblical, he said. So Christians and Jews ought to be able to work together on shoring up the moral and cultural foundations of our society, which is coming unraveled under the impact of what I might call unreality the notion that human beings are infinitely plastic and malleable. Real ecumenical progress has been made in the decades since Vatican II, Weigel said. But new obstacles have emerged and he will discuss some of them in his lecture. They include the fact that the Russian Orthodox Church leadership is a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Kremlin, and the fact that liberal Protestantism has become indistinguishable from the woke zeitgeist, he said. Weigel is also distinguished senior fellow of Washington, D.C.s Ethics and Public Policy Center, where he holds the William E. Simon Chair in Catholic Studies. The lecture series was established in 1988 to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the ordination of the Rev. Clarence W. Knippa, longtime pastor of Grace Lutheran Church. Featured video: Issues are important in the legislative process, but relationships are, too. Even in an almost entirely one-party state government such as Oklahomas, lawmakers have to negotiate. How personalities mesh or clash against each other often determines which bills make it into law and which wind up in the shredder at a sessions end. The top three players in these negotiations are almost always the governor, the Senate president pro tem and the speaker of the House of Representatives. The chairs of the House and Senate appropriations committees play key roles. In recent years, tax and spending decisions come down to the pro tem, the speaker and the two budget chairs, with input from the governor. Other legislative lieutenants also have important roles. Committee chairs largely determine which of the more than 3,000 bills and joint resolutions filed in January are heard before the first legislative deadline in early March. Majority leaders run operations on the House and Senate floor. The minority party has little influence in the Oklahoma Legislature. Its main job is to try to poke holes in the majoritys policies and propose alternatives that, occasionally, are incorporated into legislation usually with a majority members name on it. Here are this sessions most important players: Gov. Kevin Stitt, R: The governor enters his second term with a fairly strong mandate from the voters, who re-elected him last fall by a margin of 14 percentage points. That was the least of any Oklahoma Republican in a statewide race but still substantial considering the money spent against him and the quality of his opponent. Stitt and legislative leaders have had their moments over the past four years. More aggressive than his immediate predecessors and with no government experience, Stitt tromped on some toes in his first term. Vetoes came at an unusual pace, especially since the bills were all passed by Republican majorities. Stitt stayed out of budget talks until the end last year, which contributed to some late-session drama. It is unclear what his strategy will be this year. Senate President Pro Tem Greg Treat, R-Oklahoma City: The Catoosa native took over the Senates top spot four years ago and has managed to hang on despite rumblings, mostly from the right. School choice has become a leading issue for Treat, and his tactics last year in an unsuccessful attempt to get a bill through the Senate did not go down well with some members. School vouchers are again on the agenda, and again with the governors support. Two votes against last years measure have been replaced by probable yes votes, but resistance is still strong and the House is still reluctant. Treat traces his political heritage back to the late U.S. Sen. Tom Coburn, for whom Treat worked as both a campaign operative and a field representative. Elected to fill an unfinished term in 2010, Treat is term-limited in 2024. Speaker Charles McCall, R-Atoka: Elected to the House in 2012, McCall took over the top spot in the House in 2017 and is on track to become the longest-serving speaker in state history. McCall has been able to keep his large and at times fractious majority more or less headed in the same direction in recent years. There have been complaints about rules changes giving leadership more control of the body, but most of those at least publicly have come from Democrats. A banker deeply rooted in southeastern Oklahoma, McCall has to date shown no interest in school voucher bills favored by Stitt and Treat not to mention some powerful outside interest groups but has gone along with measures making district-to-district transfers within the public school system easier. Taxes seem to be at or near the top of McCalls priorities. Hes consulted with the Tax Foundation, a venerable conservative institution in Washington, and expects to bring several measures to the floor this session. SANTIAGO -- Dozens of raging wildfires in Chile claimed at least thirteen lives and torched some 14,000 hectares (35,000 acres), authorities reported on Friday, as a summer heatwave sweeps across the southern hemisphere country. Eleven people, including a firefighter, had died in the town of Santa Juana in Biobio, a region some 310 miles (500 km) south of capital Santiago, local authorities said. A local resident walks past as a wildfire in Santa Juana, near Concepcion, Chile, February 3, 2023. Photo: Reuters The Minister of Agriculture also reported an emergency-support helicopter in the southern region of La Araucania had crashed, killing the pilot and a mechanic. States of catastrophe have been declared in the farming and forest areas of Biobio and neighboring Nuble, prompting the deployment of soldiers and additional resources. Residents try to extinguish fire as a wildfire burns part of rural areas in Tome, Chile, February 3, 2023. Photo: Reuters Hundreds of homes have been damaged while 39 fires rage across the country, Interior Minister Carolina Toha said. "The conditions in the coming days are going to be risky," Toha told journalists. A residence is seen on fire in Santa Juana, near Concepcion, Chile, February 3, 2023. Photo: Reuters She said ground equipment and a fleet of 63 available planes were reinforcing the fire fight, with help from Brazil and Argentina expected. President Gabriel Boric on Friday cut his summer vacation short and traveled to Nuble and Biobio, which together have a population of nearly 2 million people. A firefighter works as wildfire burn part of rural areas in Tome, Chile, February 3, 2023. Photo: Reuters "My role as president today is to ensure that all resources will be available for the emergency and so that people feel that they are not going to be alone," Boric said from Biobio. He also pointed to "signs" that some fires may have been started intentionally. A general view of a beach as a forest fire burns part of areas in Tome, Chile, February 3, 2023. Photo: Reuters Some families sought refuge in shelters, according to Chilean disaster agency Senapred. Fires disrupted traffic on highways, and numerous settlements have been evacuated. Weather forecasts on Friday predicted temperatures over 100 degrees Fahrenheit (38 Celsius) in Nuble's capital, Chillan, with strong winds that risked worsening fire conditions. SANTIAGO -- Dozens of raging wildfires in Chile claimed at least thirteen lives and torched some 14,000 hectares (35,000 acres), authorities reported on Friday, as a summer heatwave sweeps across the southern hemisphere country. Eleven people, including a firefighter, had died in the town of Santa Juana in Biobio, a region some 310 miles (500 km) south of capital Santiago, local authorities said. A local resident walks past as a wildfire in Santa Juana, near Concepcion, Chile, February 3, 2023. Photo: Reuters The Minister of Agriculture also reported an emergency-support helicopter in the southern region of La Araucania had crashed, killing the pilot and a mechanic. States of catastrophe have been declared in the farming and forest areas of Biobio and neighboring Nuble, prompting the deployment of soldiers and additional resources. Residents try to extinguish fire as a wildfire burns part of rural areas in Tome, Chile, February 3, 2023. Photo: Reuters Hundreds of homes have been damaged while 39 fires rage across the country, Interior Minister Carolina Toha said. "The conditions in the coming days are going to be risky," Toha told journalists. A residence is seen on fire in Santa Juana, near Concepcion, Chile, February 3, 2023. Photo: Reuters She said ground equipment and a fleet of 63 available planes were reinforcing the fire fight, with help from Brazil and Argentina expected. President Gabriel Boric on Friday cut his summer vacation short and traveled to Nuble and Biobio, which together have a population of nearly 2 million people. A firefighter works as wildfire burn part of rural areas in Tome, Chile, February 3, 2023. Photo: Reuters "My role as president today is to ensure that all resources will be available for the emergency and so that people feel that they are not going to be alone," Boric said from Biobio. He also pointed to "signs" that some fires may have been started intentionally. A general view of a beach as a forest fire burns part of areas in Tome, Chile, February 3, 2023. Photo: Reuters Some families sought refuge in shelters, according to Chilean disaster agency Senapred. Fires disrupted traffic on highways, and numerous settlements have been evacuated. Weather forecasts on Friday predicted temperatures over 100 degrees Fahrenheit (38 Celsius) in Nuble's capital, Chillan, with strong winds that risked worsening fire conditions. NEW DELHI -- The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has warned against using an eye drop made in India that has been linked to the outbreak of a drug-resistant bacteria leading to adverse events in at least 55 patients in the United States including infections, blindness and one death. The agency said on Thursday that Artificial Tears eye drop manufactured by India's Global Pharma Healthcare Pvt Ltd has a potential bacterial contamination and the company has violated current good manufacturing practices. Global Pharma Healthcare, based in the southern city of Chennai, said on Wednesday it had issued a voluntary recall at the consumer level of unexpired lots of the eye drop, which was distributed in the United States by EzriCare LLC and Delsam Pharma. Global Pharma Healthcare did not immediately respond to a Reuters request seeking comment on the FDA statement. EzriCare said in a statement on Wednesday that it had stopped further distribution and sale of the eye drop, and it was not aware of any testing that "definitively links" the bacterial outbreak to the product. The company has removed the products as requested, a Delsam Pharma spokesperson said, adding that the products had a safety seal top and were not associated with customer cases. An Indian government source told Reuters on Friday that the federal and state drug regulators have sent a team to a manufacturing plant near Chennai contracted by Global Pharma Healthcare. "It is a contract manufacturing plant supplying through others to the U.S. market," the source said, adding that this specific drug was not sold in India. The incident comes after the deaths of at least 70 children in Gambia and 19 children in Uzbekistan last year were linked to India-made cough syrups, which has dented the country's image as the "pharmacy of the world". The FDA said it was collaborating with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and state and local health departments to investigate a multistate outbreak involving a rare, extensively drug-resistant bacteria. It said that as of Jan. 31, the CDC had identified 55 patients in 12 states with infections linked to the use of Artificial Tears distributed by EzriCare, it said. "Associated adverse events include hospitalization, one death with bloodstream infection, and permanent vision loss from eye infections," the FDA said. NEW DELHI -- The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has warned against using an eye drop made in India that has been linked to the outbreak of a drug-resistant bacteria leading to adverse events in at least 55 patients in the United States including infections, blindness and one death. The agency said on Thursday that Artificial Tears eye drop manufactured by India's Global Pharma Healthcare Pvt Ltd has a potential bacterial contamination and the company has violated current good manufacturing practices. Global Pharma Healthcare, based in the southern city of Chennai, said on Wednesday it had issued a voluntary recall at the consumer level of unexpired lots of the eye drop, which was distributed in the United States by EzriCare LLC and Delsam Pharma. Global Pharma Healthcare did not immediately respond to a Reuters request seeking comment on the FDA statement. EzriCare said in a statement on Wednesday that it had stopped further distribution and sale of the eye drop, and it was not aware of any testing that "definitively links" the bacterial outbreak to the product. The company has removed the products as requested, a Delsam Pharma spokesperson said, adding that the products had a safety seal top and were not associated with customer cases. An Indian government source told Reuters on Friday that the federal and state drug regulators have sent a team to a manufacturing plant near Chennai contracted by Global Pharma Healthcare. "It is a contract manufacturing plant supplying through others to the U.S. market," the source said, adding that this specific drug was not sold in India. The incident comes after the deaths of at least 70 children in Gambia and 19 children in Uzbekistan last year were linked to India-made cough syrups, which has dented the country's image as the "pharmacy of the world". The FDA said it was collaborating with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and state and local health departments to investigate a multistate outbreak involving a rare, extensively drug-resistant bacteria. It said that as of Jan. 31, the CDC had identified 55 patients in 12 states with infections linked to the use of Artificial Tears distributed by EzriCare, it said. "Associated adverse events include hospitalization, one death with bloodstream infection, and permanent vision loss from eye infections," the FDA said. As of the end of last month, 474 cancer patients were waiting to undergo surgeries at the Ho Chi Minh City Oncology Hospital in the namesake city, director of the hospital Pham Xuan Dung told Tuoi Tre (Youth) newspaper. He attributed the high number of patients waiting for surgeries to the degraded infrastructure and overload at the main campus of the infirmary, which is based in Binh Thanh District. The hospitals director expected that when the second campus of the hospital, in Thu Duc City, is completely put into operation with the number of operating rooms increasing from 14 to 20, the waiting time will be shortened from four to three weeks. According to statistics from the Ho Chi Minh City Oncology Hospital, the hospital performs 31,000-33,000 surgeries for cancer patients per year. The number fell to 18,000 and 29,000 in 2020 and 2021, respectively, when the COVID-19 pandemic broke out in Vietnam. Tang Chi Thuong, director of the Ho Chi Minh City Department of Health, told Tuoi Tre on Friday that the department and the municipal Peoples Committee had surveyed the second campus of the Ho Chi Minh City Oncology Hospital twice. The time to inaugurate the second campus will be decided by the government. In addition to increasing the number of operating rooms to cut patients waiting time, the municipal healthcare sector has a plan to develop a network to screen, early detect and treat cancer patients, Thuong added. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! As of the end of last month, 474 cancer patients were waiting to undergo surgeries at the Ho Chi Minh City Oncology Hospital in the namesake city, director of the hospital Pham Xuan Dung told Tuoi Tre (Youth) newspaper. He attributed the high number of patients waiting for surgeries to the degraded infrastructure and overload at the main campus of the infirmary, which is based in Binh Thanh District. The hospitals director expected that when the second campus of the hospital, in Thu Duc City, is completely put into operation with the number of operating rooms increasing from 14 to 20, the waiting time will be shortened from four to three weeks. According to statistics from the Ho Chi Minh City Oncology Hospital, the hospital performs 31,000-33,000 surgeries for cancer patients per year. The number fell to 18,000 and 29,000 in 2020 and 2021, respectively, when the COVID-19 pandemic broke out in Vietnam. Tang Chi Thuong, director of the Ho Chi Minh City Department of Health, told Tuoi Tre on Friday that the department and the municipal Peoples Committee had surveyed the second campus of the Ho Chi Minh City Oncology Hospital twice. The time to inaugurate the second campus will be decided by the government. In addition to increasing the number of operating rooms to cut patients waiting time, the municipal healthcare sector has a plan to develop a network to screen, early detect and treat cancer patients, Thuong added. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! Vietnams central customs agency has asked its relevant units to handle a case in which a customs official at Noi Bai International Airport has been accused of having bad-mannered treatment toward passengers, one of whom released a relevant post on social media. The General Department of Customs on Thursday said it has directed its functional units to verify and handle the incident that happened at the airport in Hanoi on January 29, involving a deputy head of a customs team in charge of outbound baggage and a group of passengers. The agency has ordered its relevant functional units to set up an inspection team to deal with the case to ensure discipline among customs officers and employees, Nguoi Lao Dong (Laborer) newspaper reported, citing a representative of the department. The direction was made as the agency received a report from the Hanoi Customs Department after the case was shared on social media. The central customs agency said that it will notify mass media of the results of verification and handling of the case when they are available. Earlier, in a post on Facebook and her talks to the press, N.T.T. expressed her frustration about the improper behavior of the aforementioned customs officer, Nguyen Phuc Hai, at the airport. At 0:00 that day, her family carried out procedures at the airport for a flight to Japan and during the process, her two young children were taken by her mother to a toilet and when they returned to the check-out area, they were yelled at by Hai, who even expelled them from the area, T. narrated on her Facebook page. Discontent with Hais rude behavior, T. made an opposition response to him but he said that he did not need to be polite because he was not an airport employee, the woman reported. T. then made a Facebook post about what was happening to her and her relatives. After boarding the plane, T. was requested by a customs staff three times that she and her two children get off the plane with their hand luggage for a re-check. However, a flight attendant did not let the customs staff take T. and her children off the plane because the plane was about to take off, T. narrated. At that time, Hai entered the plane and asked T. made a written commitment to delete her post and not to use the images she had recorded. Since the incident, the customs side has not released any response or apology to me. The request by the customs official and his getting on board right before the plane take-off can be evidenced by witnesses, Tien Phong (Vanguard) newspaper quoted T. as saying. Do Manh Hung, head of the airport customs office, told Tien Phong that the incident was between Hai and T. only, not relating to the working procedures of the airport customs at all. In his report to the office, Hai said that while he was at the airport counter as T. that day to ask for flight information for his relatives, he found two children running from the toilet area straight into the procedure counter area without standing in line. When Hai asked the children to queue up, T. appeared and the two sides got into a dispute, Hung said, citing Hais report. Although the incident occurred outside the customs area, the office has asked Hai to correct his manner while dealing with passengers and draw experience from this problem, Hung added. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! Vietnams central customs agency has asked its relevant units to handle a case in which a customs official at Noi Bai International Airport has been accused of having bad-mannered treatment toward passengers, one of whom released a relevant post on social media. The General Department of Customs on Thursday said it has directed its functional units to verify and handle the incident that happened at the airport in Hanoi on January 29, involving a deputy head of a customs team in charge of outbound baggage and a group of passengers. The agency has ordered its relevant functional units to set up an inspection team to deal with the case to ensure discipline among customs officers and employees, Nguoi Lao Dong (Laborer) newspaper reported, citing a representative of the department. The direction was made as the agency received a report from the Hanoi Customs Department after the case was shared on social media. The central customs agency said that it will notify mass media of the results of verification and handling of the case when they are available. Earlier, in a post on Facebook and her talks to the press, N.T.T. expressed her frustration about the improper behavior of the aforementioned customs officer, Nguyen Phuc Hai, at the airport. At 0:00 that day, her family carried out procedures at the airport for a flight to Japan and during the process, her two young children were taken by her mother to a toilet and when they returned to the check-out area, they were yelled at by Hai, who even expelled them from the area, T. narrated on her Facebook page. Discontent with Hais rude behavior, T. made an opposition response to him but he said that he did not need to be polite because he was not an airport employee, the woman reported. T. then made a Facebook post about what was happening to her and her relatives. After boarding the plane, T. was requested by a customs staff three times that she and her two children get off the plane with their hand luggage for a re-check. However, a flight attendant did not let the customs staff take T. and her children off the plane because the plane was about to take off, T. narrated. At that time, Hai entered the plane and asked T. made a written commitment to delete her post and not to use the images she had recorded. Since the incident, the customs side has not released any response or apology to me. The request by the customs official and his getting on board right before the plane take-off can be evidenced by witnesses, Tien Phong (Vanguard) newspaper quoted T. as saying. Do Manh Hung, head of the airport customs office, told Tien Phong that the incident was between Hai and T. only, not relating to the working procedures of the airport customs at all. In his report to the office, Hai said that while he was at the airport counter as T. that day to ask for flight information for his relatives, he found two children running from the toilet area straight into the procedure counter area without standing in line. When Hai asked the children to queue up, T. appeared and the two sides got into a dispute, Hung said, citing Hais report. Although the incident occurred outside the customs area, the office has asked Hai to correct his manner while dealing with passengers and draw experience from this problem, Hung added. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! Food safety authorities in Dong Nai Province, southern Vietnam said on Friday that they had fined a company VND240 million (US$10,234) after discovering nearly 24 metric tons of rotten foods including chicken, beef and animal organs at its two warehouses in Bien Hoa City. Seven metric tons of the decayed foods were found at a warehouse of Long Phat Co., Ltd in the citys Tan Hiep Ward and the remaining amount was discovered at another venue in Phuoc Tan Ward. Functional forces later destroyed all of them. At the time of the detection, the foods were emitting a foul odor and were in a stage of decomposition. Most of their packages did not carry labels while some others had foreign words. Long Phat, which is based in Tan Hiep Ward and chaired and directed by Nguyen Chi Hieu, said the company had purchased the foods online and from some sources in the northern region for reselling to restaurants and eateries in Dong Nai, Binh Duong and Ho Chi Minh City. Police officers determined that the company had failed to notify the local business registration office its operation venues, failed to obtain a certificate of food safety in accordance with regulations, and traded goods of unknown origin. As a result, the Peoples Committee of Dong Nai imposed a fine of VND240 million on Long Phat. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! Food safety authorities in Dong Nai Province, southern Vietnam said on Friday that they had fined a company VND240 million (US$10,234) after discovering nearly 24 metric tons of rotten foods including chicken, beef and animal organs at its two warehouses in Bien Hoa City. Seven metric tons of the decayed foods were found at a warehouse of Long Phat Co., Ltd in the citys Tan Hiep Ward and the remaining amount was discovered at another venue in Phuoc Tan Ward. Functional forces later destroyed all of them. At the time of the detection, the foods were emitting a foul odor and were in a stage of decomposition. Most of their packages did not carry labels while some others had foreign words. Long Phat, which is based in Tan Hiep Ward and chaired and directed by Nguyen Chi Hieu, said the company had purchased the foods online and from some sources in the northern region for reselling to restaurants and eateries in Dong Nai, Binh Duong and Ho Chi Minh City. Police officers determined that the company had failed to notify the local business registration office its operation venues, failed to obtain a certificate of food safety in accordance with regulations, and traded goods of unknown origin. As a result, the Peoples Committee of Dong Nai imposed a fine of VND240 million on Long Phat. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! Is it any wonder All That Breathes is in contention for the Best Documentary Feature at the Academy Awards? From its silent opening images, as cameras crawl across landfill in Delhi raided by dogs and rats in the still of the night, you know youre in for something special. Artfully directed by Shaunak Sen, this is an environmental film told through the rescue of black kite birds. But it is also a human story about the bond between two brothers, Nadeem Shehzad and Mohammad Saud, who run a struggling bird rescue clinic. Both grew up respecting these birds of prey where their noble work is believed to lead to religious credits. Their late mother also instilled a philosophy not to differentiate between all that breathes whether human, animal or vegetation. In Delhis heaving underbelly, or possibly on the heart of it, Nadeem and Mohammad operate a crumbling bird clinic in their small home. Assisted by colleague Salik Rehman, they rescue the raptor birds from rooftops, streets and rivers, providing medical care on an operating table where the electricity shuts down without notice. The kites, which hover effortlessly in mesmerising circles above the city, provide a major function to Delhi by feeding of its expansive waste. Yet to many locals these creatures are treated with disdain. The brothers began their own hospital when veterinarians refused to offer care to non-vegetarian birds. But Delhis urban sprawl means pollution is endagering their world. As the kites try to adapt to a fragile ecosystem, they are literally falling from the skies. Devoted to their lifes work, the brothers are also in dire need of financial assistance to remain viable, with Nadeem constantly applying for funding from intenational groups. In the face of ongoing rejection, with failing equipment, crowded space, and families to feed, the brothers despair over a bleak outlook. What will we do now? one asks. What weve always done. Get by somehow, he is told. Amid their own struggles is a political backdrop of refugees from Pakistan, Afghanistan and Bangladesh, civil unrest over Indias constitution and riots on the streets. Much of this is is related through the eyes of the brothers and their family, with glimpses of TV and radio news just enough for the viewer to understand the encroaching threat, only 2km from the doors of the bird clinic. While Saud finds his nirvana from working with the kites, Nadeem still yearns for more.. education, travel, a thirst for knowledge. Darwin and Newton were my heroes, now I spend all day on Excel sheets, he says after endless funding applications. Delhi is a gaping wound and were a tiny bandaid on it. Young Salik is also devoted to the work -watch for the moment a raptor steals his spectacles from his head but instead of anger on his part, there is quiet awe. Director Shaunak Sens sensitivity with the material is transfixing, and the cinematography by Ben Bernhard, Riju Das & Saumyananda Sahi is exquisite. From caterpillars to jumbo jets in a single shot, you feel the vastness of Delhi. Creatures of all sizes are respected by the camera in hypnotic vision that belies the surrounds. In ugliness, it finds beauty. And then there are the birds, supreme, almost prehistoric in appearance. Up close or circling from afar, they never fail to captivate. No wonder these brothers want to protect them. You will too. All That Breathes screens 8:30pm Wednesday on FOX Docos and Binge. In reaction to the launch of a suspected Chinese spy balloon over the United States, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has postponed his forthcoming trip to China, marking a significant new step in the relations between Washington and Beijing. Blinken, scheduled to travel for Beijing on Friday evening, stated during a news conference that the high-altitude observation balloon hovering above the continental United States "established the conditions that undercut the trip's objective." US-China Tension On Friday morning, he called China's senior diplomat, Wang Yi, to advise him of the postponement. Blinken said that the United States is convinced that the balloon over the United States is a Chinese spy balloon. On Friday, the Chinese foreign ministry said that the errant balloon was a "civilian airship" used mostly for meteorological research. According to CNN, the Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson's comment was the first confirmation that the spy balloon originated in China. A senior State Department source stated that the United States has recognized China's "expression of remorse" but that the balloon's presence in US airspace constituted "a blatant breach of our sovereignty and international law, and it is unacceptable that this has occurred." On Friday, a Pentagon spokesperson estimated that the balloon would linger over the United States for many days. On Friday, the balloon was seen in Missouri and is now en route to the East Coast. Per Telegraph via MSN, Blinken stated that the event "undermined" the trip's aim and that "in light of this ongoing situation, a visit to Beijing at this time would be inappropriate." When asked why the administration canceled the trip, given that US defense experts believed the Chinese balloon was incapable of collecting necessary intelligence, a State Department official stated that the event "would have significantly reduced the itinerary" of the trip. US authorities have stated that they do not believe the balloon could collect information that could not have been obtained via other means, namely spy satellites. However, the suspension of Blinken's high-level trip due to the incident demonstrates how tight ties are between Washington and Beijing at a time when both sides are erecting protections to prevent a new crisis. Danny Russel, vice president of the Asia Society and former US ambassador, stated that the Biden administration's decision to postpone the trip was a "knowledge that the event would hijack the agenda, overshadow the strategic issues, and dominate the media coverage of the visit." The discovery of the Chinese spy balloon increases the pressure on President Joe Biden, who has been sensitive to Republican criticisms that he is not tough enough on China. However, Republicans were divided on the issue of canceling the trip. Republicans on the House Foreign Affairs Committee urged Blinken to use the trip to send China a strong message about the suspected spy balloon. However, US officials looked anxious about the optics of the visit in light of the invasion, although experts deemed the event, even if it were an espionage act, to be unremarkable. The Pentagon made an unexpected declaration on Thursday that the balloon was drifting across high-altitude US airspace and is being monitored but is not deemed a threat to persons on the ground. Officials from the United States momentarily contemplated shooting down the Chinese spy balloon owing to the possibility of falling debris to people on the ground, but ultimately decided against it. According to a US defense official who spoke on the condition of anonymity due to the sensitivity of the issue, the airship first entered US territory late last week over the Aleutian Islands, then drifted over mainland Alaska, down through Canada, and entered the continental United States in the vicinity of northern Idaho and Montana. Beijing has a history of misrepresenting military initiatives as civilian research, as evidenced by a 2021 hypersonic missile test that the Foreign Ministry described as a standard test of reusable space vehicles. Read Also: North Korea To Send Personnel to Ukraine Chinese Spy Ballooon May be Equipped With Long-Range Camera The Pentagon said the balloon was about 60,000 ft. over the continental United States at midday on Friday. The balloon's flight route had put it above Montana, causing concerns that it was gathering information on nuclear missile locations in the state. According to a 2015 American Leadership & Policy Foundation assessment, rogue states might fly balloons carrying nuclear weapons above the United States, which could be used to conduct attacks or disrupt the electrical infrastructure. Considering that a regular bus is around 40 feet long, the spherical balloon may measure approximately 120 ft. by 120 ft. This would be consistent with the dimensions of previous high-altitude balloons. Images captured from the ground reveal that a gadget attached to the balloon is equipped with enormous solar panels that power onboard monitoring equipment and a mechanism for controlling the balloon's movement. Such a spy balloon would be equipped with a long-range camera and radar to identify the presence and movement of difficult-to-find items. Such a balloon would also be equipped with a communication device capable of relaying the findings to its controller in real-time. Intriguingly, authorities feel that the balloon is not any more successful than Chinese satellites, which can also be used to perform surveillance of the United States. Chinese surveillance satellites include comparable sensors to those US officials think to be aboard the spy balloon, raising doubts as to why Beijing would undertake such an audacious operation on the day of Blinken's postponed visit. According to authorities, the Chinese surveillance balloon has chosen a flight course that will take it over several critical facilities. One such location may be military locations, such as those in Montana, where intercontinental ballistic missile silos are located, as per Daily Mail. Related Article: US Spotted Chinese Spy Balloon Floating Over Montana @YouTube @ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. This week Back Roads is heading to two old farming towns, Pyramid Hill in Victorias north and Nhill in the states far west. The communities lie 260 kilometres apart but are connected in the most surprising ways. Presenter Heather Ewart discovers when both towns faced a shortage of farm workers they looked beyond their backyards for solutions. In Pyramid Hill, the local piggery recruited skilled workers from the Philippines. The town was quick to jump into action to support them, offering the newcomers a fresh start and a fair go. The community even stepped up to raise funds to reunite one family who couldnt afford to bring their three eldest children to Australia. Incredibly, Filipinos now make up a quarter of Pyramid Hills population and have revitalised what was once a dying town.In 2010, Karen refugees from Myanmar began settling in Nhill to work at the local duck processing factory. They found a sanctuary in the town, a place where they feel safe. According to one former refugee, we feel like human beings again. As they say, from small beginnings big things grow. Like in Pyramid Hill, the positive spin offs for Nhill were unexpected. Heather seeks to find out what other towns can learn from the experience of these two country communities. 8pm Monday on ABC. Returning to work after maternity leave, 3 doctors try to balance motherhood in an over-stretched, post-Covid NHS. 8:45pm Sunday on Seven. Australian Survivor 60 Minutes Australian Idol Crazy Fun Park Vera The ARPANET changed computing forever by proving that computers of wildly different manufacture could be connected using standardized protocols. In my post on the historical significance of the ARPANET, I mentioned a few of those protocols, but didnt describe them in any detail. So I wanted to take a closer look at them. I also wanted to see how much of the design of those early protocols survives in the protocols we use today. The ARPANET protocols were, like our modern internet protocols, organized into layers. The protocols in the higher layers ran on top of the protocols in the lower layers. Today the TCP/IP suite has five layers (the Physical, Link, Network, Transport, and Application layers), but the ARPANET had only three layersor possibly four, depending on how you count them. Im going to explain how each of these layers worked, but first an aside about who built what in the ARPANET, which you need to know to understand why the layers were divided up as they were. Some Quick Historical Context The ARPANET was funded by the US federal government, specifically the Advanced Research Projects Agency within the Department of Defense (hence the name ARPANET). The US government did not directly build the network; instead, it contracted the work out to a Boston-based consulting firm called Bolt, Beranek, and Newman, more commonly known as BBN. BBN, in turn, handled many of the responsibilities for implementing the network but not all of them. What BBN did was design and maintain a machine known as the Interface Message Processor, or IMP. The IMP was a customized Honeywell minicomputer, one of which was delivered to each site across the country that was to be connected to the ARPANET. The IMP served as a gateway to the ARPANET for up to four hosts at each host site. It was basically a router. BBN controlled the software running on the IMPs that forwarded packets from IMP to IMP, but the firm had no direct control over the machines that would connect to the IMPs and become the actual hosts on the ARPANET. The host machines were controlled by the computer scientists that were the end users of the network. These computer scientists, at host sites across the country, were responsible for writing the software that would allow the hosts to talk to each other. The IMPs gave hosts the ability to send messages to each other, but that was not much use unless the hosts agreed on a format to use for the messages. To solve that problem, a motley crew consisting in large part of graduate students from the various host sites formed themselves into the Network Working Group, which sought to specify protocols for the host computers to use. So if you imagine a single successful network interaction over the ARPANET, (sending an email, say), some bits of engineering that made the interaction successful were the responsibility of one set of people (BBN), while other bits of engineering were the responsibility of another set of people (the Network Working Group and the engineers at each host site). That organizational and logistical happenstance probably played a big role in motivating the layered approach used for protocols on the ARPANET, which in turn influenced the layered approach used for TCP/IP. Okay, Back to the Protocols The ARPANET protocol hierarchy. The protocol layers were organized into a hierarchy. At the very bottom was level 0. This is the layer that in some sense doesnt count, because on the ARPANET this layer was controlled entirely by BBN, so there was no need for a standard protocol. Level 0 governed how data passed between the IMPs. Inside of BBN, there were rules governing how IMPs did this; outside of BBN, the IMP sub-network was a black box that just passed on any data that you gave it. So level 0 was a layer without a real protocol, in the sense of a publicly known and agreed-upon set of rules, and its existence could be ignored by software running on the ARPANET hosts. Loosely speaking, it handled everything that falls under the Physical, Link, and Internet layers of the TCP/IP suite today, and even quite a lot of the Transport layer, which is something Ill come back to at the end of this post. The level 1 layer established the interface between the ARPANET hosts and the IMPs they were connected to. It was an API, if you like, for the black box level 0 that BBN had built. It was also referred to at the time as the IMP-Host Protocol. This protocol had to be written and published because, when the ARPANET was first being set up, each host site had to write its own software to interface with the IMP. They wouldnt have known how to do that unless BBN gave them some guidance. The IMP-Host Protocol was specified by BBN in a lengthy document called BBN Report 1822. The document was revised many times as the ARPANET evolved; what Im going to describe here is roughly the way the IMP-Host protocol worked as it was initially designed. According to BBNs rules, hosts could pass messages to their IMPs no longer than 8095 bits, and each message had a leader that included the destination host number and something called a link number. The IMP would examine the designation host number and then dutifully forward the message into the network. When messages were received from a remote host, the receiving IMP would replace the destination host number with the source host number before passing it on to the local host. Messages were not actually what passed between the IMPs themselvesthe IMPs broke the messages down into smaller packets for transfer over the networkbut that detail was hidden from the hosts. The Host-IMP message leader format, as of 1969. Diagram from BBN Report 1763. The link number, which could be any number from 0 to 255, served two purposes. It was used by higher level protocols to establish more than one channel of communication between any two hosts on the network, since it was conceivable that there might be more than one local user talking to the same destination host at any given time. (In other words, the link numbers allowed communication to be multiplexed between hosts.) But it was also used at the level 1 layer to control the amount of traffic that could be sent between hosts, which was necessary to prevent faster computers from overwhelming slower ones. As initially designed, the IMP-Host Protocol limited each host to sending just one message at a time over each link. Once a given host had sent a message along a link to a remote host, it would have to wait to receive a special kind of message called an RFNM (Request for Next Message) from the remote IMP before sending the next message along the same link. Later revisions to this system, made to improve performance, allowed a host to have up to eight messages in transit to another host at a given time. The level 2 layer is where things really start to get interesting, because it was this layer and the one above it that BBN and the Department of Defense left entirely to the academics and the Network Working Group to invent for themselves. The level 2 layer comprised the Host-Host Protocol, which was first sketched in RFC 9 and first officially specified by RFC 54. A more readable explanation of the Host-Host Protocol is given in the ARPANET Protocol Handbook. The Host-Host Protocol governed how hosts created and managed connections with each other. A connection was a one-way data pipeline between a write socket on one host and a read socket on another host. The socket concept was introduced on top of the limited level-1 link facility (remember that the link number can only be one of 256 values) to give programs a way of addressing a particular process running on a remote host. Read sockets were even-numbered while write sockets were odd-numbered; whether a socket was a read socket or a write socket was referred to as the sockets gender. There were no port numbers like in TCP. Connections could be opened, manipulated, and closed by specially formatted Host-Host control messages sent between hosts using link 0, which was reserved for that purpose. Once control messages were exchanged over link 0 to establish a connection, further data messages could then be sent using another link number picked by the receiver. Host-Host control messages were identified by a three-letter mnemonic. A connection was established when two hosts exchanged a STR (sender-to-receiver) message and a matching RTS (receiver-to-sender) messagethese control messages were both known as Request for Connection messages. Connections could be closed by the CLS (close) control message. There were further control messages that changed the rate at which data messages were sent from sender to receiver, which were needed to ensure again that faster hosts did not overwhelm slower hosts. The flow control already provided by the level 1 protocol was apparently not sufficient at level 2; I suspect this was because receiving an RFNM from a remote IMP was only a guarantee that the remote IMP had passed the message on to the destination host, not that the host had fully processed the message. There was also an INR (interrupt-by-receiver) control message and an INS (interrupt-by-sender) control message that were primarily for use by higher-level protocols. The higher-level protocols all lived in level 3, which was the Application layer of the ARPANET. The Telnet protocol, which provided a virtual teletype connection to another host, was perhaps the most important of these protocols, but there were many others in this level too, such as FTP for transferring files and various experiments with protocols for sending email. One protocol in this level was not like the others: the Initial Connection Protocol (ICP). ICP was considered to be a level-3 protocol, but really it was a kind of level-2.5 protocol, since other level-3 protocols depended on it. ICP was needed because the connections provided by the Host-Host Protocol at level 2 were only one-way, but most applications required a two-way (i.e. full-duplex) connection to do anything interesting. ICP specified a two-step process whereby a client running on one host could connect to a long-running server process on another host. The first step involved establishing a one-way connection from the server to the client using the server process well-known socket number. The server would then send a new socket number to the client over the established connection. At that point, the existing connection would be discarded and two new connections would be opened, a read connection based on the transmitted socket number and a write connection based on the transmitted socket number plus one. This little dance was a necessary prelude to most thingsit was the first step in establishing a Telnet connection, for example. That finishes our ascent of the ARPANET protocol hierarchy. You may have been expecting me to mention a Network Control Protocol at some point. Before I sat down to do research for this post and my last one, I definitely thought that the ARPANET ran on a protocol called NCP. The acronym is occasionally used to refer to the ARPANET protocols as a whole, which might be why I had that idea. RFC 801, for example, talks about transitioning the ARPANET from NCP to TCP in a way that makes it sound like NCP is an ARPANET protocol equivalent to TCP. But there has never been a Network Control Protocol for the ARPANET (even if Encyclopedia Britannica thinks so), and I suspect people have mistakenly unpacked NCP as Network Control Protocol when really it stands for Network Control Program. The Network Control Program was the kernel-level program running in each host responsible for handling network communication, equivalent to the TCP/IP stack in an operating system today. NCP, as its used in RFC 801, is a metonym, not a protocol. A Comparison with TCP/IP The ARPANET protocols were all later supplanted by the TCP/IP protocols (with the exception of Telnet and FTP, which were easily adapted to run on top of TCP). Whereas the ARPANET protocols were all based on the assumption that the network was built and administered by a single entity (BBN), the TCP/IP protocol suite was designed for an inter-net, a network of networks where everything would be more fluid and unreliable. That led to some of the more immediately obvious differences between our modern protocol suite and the ARPANET protocols, such as how we now distinguish between a Network layer and a Transport layer. The Transport layer-like functionality that in the ARPANET was partly implemented by the IMPs is now the sole responsibility of the hosts at the network edge. What I find most interesting about the ARPANET protocols though is how so much of the transport-layer functionality now in TCP went through a janky adolescence on the ARPANET. Im not a networking expert, so I pulled out my college networks textbook (Kurose and Ross, lets go), and they give a pretty great outline of what a transport layer is responsible for in general. To summarize their explanation, a transport layer protocol must minimally do the following things. Here segment is basically equivalent to message as the term was used on the ARPANET: Provide a delivery service between processes and not just host machines (transport layer multiplexing and demultiplexing) Provide integrity checking on a per-segment basis (i.e. make sure there is no data corruption in transit) A transport layer could also, like TCP does, provide reliable data transfer, which means: Segments are delivered in order No segments go missing Segments arent delivered so fast that they get dropped by the receiver (flow control) It seems like there was some confusion on the ARPANET about how to do multiplexing and demultiplexing so that processes could communicateBBN introduced the link number to do that at the IMP-Host level, but it turned out that socket numbers were necessary at the Host-Host level on top of that anyway. Then the link number was just used for flow control at the IMP-Host level, but BBN seems to have later abandoned that in favor of doing flow control between unique pairs of hosts, meaning that the link number started out as this overloaded thing only to basically became vestigial. TCP now uses port numbers instead, doing flow control over each TCP connection separately. The process-process multiplexing and demultiplexing lives entirely inside TCP and does not leak into a lower layer like on the ARPANET. Its also interesting to see, in light of how Kurose and Ross develop the ideas behind TCP, that the ARPANET started out with what Kurose and Ross would call a strict stop-and-wait approach to reliable data transfer at the IMP-Host level. The stop-and-wait approach is to transmit a segment and then refuse to transmit any more segments until an acknowledgment for the most recently transmitted segment has been received. Its a simple approach, but it means that only one segment is ever in flight across the network, making for a very slow protocolwhich is why Kurose and Ross present stop-and-wait as merely a stepping stone on the way to a fully featured transport layer protocol. On the ARPANET, stop-and-wait was how things worked for a while, since, at the IMP-Host level, a Request for Next Message had to be received in response to every outgoing message before any further messages could be sent. To be fair to BBN, they at first thought this would be necessary to provide flow control between hosts, so the slowdown was intentional. As Ive already mentioned, the RFNM requirement was later relaxed for the sake of better performance, and the IMPs started attaching sequence numbers to messages and keeping track of a window of messages in flight in the more or less the same way that TCP implementations do today. So the ARPANET showed that communication between heterogeneous computing systems is possible if you get everyone to agree on some baseline rules. That is, as Ive previously argued, the ARPANETs most important legacy. But what I hope this closer look at those baseline rules has revealed is just how much the ARPANET protocols also influenced the protocols we use today. There was certainly a lot of awkwardness in the way that transport-layer responsibilities were shared between the hosts and the IMPs, sometimes redundantly. And its really almost funny in retrospect that hosts could at first only send each other a single message at a time over any given link. But the ARPANET experiment was a unique opportunity to learn those lessons by actually building and operating a network, and it seems those lessons were put to good use when it came time to upgrade to the internet as we know it today. If you enjoyed this post, more like it come out every four weeks! Follow @TwoBitHistory on Twitter or subscribe to the RSS feed to make sure you know when a new post is out. Previously on TwoBitHistory Syed Ahmed, chef from Bombay Gate in Darlington, has been named UK Champion of International Bangladeshi Masterchef and will fly out to compete against South Asian's most promising chefs next month (Image: Stuart Boulton) A chef from Darlington has made it through to the final rounds of a prestigious international cooking competition. Syed Ahmed from Bombay Gate on Skinnergate will be travelling to Bangladesh next month to put his skills to the test when he competes against some of the most promising chefs from the UK in International Bangladeshi Masterchef. After facing tough competition at Northampton College on Tuesday, January 17, against 31 other hopefuls, Syed said he had to block out the stress and pretend it was just another day at work. After the blind tasting, the scoring was done on a points system, and ten lucky chefs were selected to go to the Grand Sylhet Hotel in Bangladesh to compete against South Asias finest chefs. The Northern Echo: Syed was over the moon when he got the phone call on his way back to Darlington Syed was over the moon when he got the phone call on his way back to Darlington (Image: Stuart Boulton) Read more: 'A Message To You, Rishi': Teachers strike across Darlington over working conditions The 42-year-old from Darlington was named UK Champion and he was told he would be taking the team overseas. It was on his way back to Darlington that he got a call with the news, and he was speechless. Syed said: I couldnt believe it. Not because I dont think my foods wasnt good, just because there were so many really good chefs there. My heart was pounding when I got the call and I was shaking. I couldnt wait to get back to Bombay Gate and tell the staff and my family, especially my brother. I was driving back with my manager and we were so happy with the news. Read more: 'Great jobs on offer in Darlington': Jobs fair comes to town - how to reserve a place This competition is a huge deal for Asian chefs and Ive done competitions before but this is definitely a big step up. Read next: Story continues If you want to read more great stories, why not subscribe to The Northern Echo for as little as 1.25 a week. Click here. There were judges from all different backgrounds, not just Asian, and they were clearly looking at your ability as a chef, not just being judged on one dish. The Northern Echo: Bombay Gate on Skinnergate in Darlington Bombay Gate on Skinnergate in Darlington (Image: Aja Dodd, Newsquest) Taking inspiration from all corners of the globe is what Syed puts his culinary success down to as hes not afraid of experimenting with Middle Eastern, East Asian, and European flavours and incorporating them into his dishes, something he is outing into practice at Bombay Gate. Syed flies out to Bangladesh for another cook off on Tuesday, March 14, and hopefully will bring the prestigious title back to Darlington. Company Logo Dublin, Jan. 12, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "The Corporate Reputation of Pharma in 2021- The Patient Perspective - Germany Edition - The Views of 151 German Patient Groups" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. The 'Corporate Reputation of Pharma' survey - the 2021 Germany edition is now in its 10th year, and two years into the Covid-19 pandemic). Between November 2021-February 2022, the survey collected the opinions of 151 German patient groups on the performance of the pharmaceutical industry during 2021. Patient groups responding to the 'Corporate Reputation of Pharma' survey are uniquely positioned to comment on the pharma industry's performance during the pandemic. Patient groups not only understand the perceptions of patients, but are also the only healthcare stakeholder to network with all other stakeholders in the healthcare system. The report provides details on: How the analyst measures pharma's corporate reputation from a patient perspective; The headline results of the 2021 Germany element of the 'Corporate Reputation' survey; The companies included in the 2021 Germany analysis; and The profiles of 2021's respondent German patient groups. Company Rankings in 2021 The top-three pharma companies in Germany in 2021, out of 24 companies, ranked for their overall corporate reputation (as assessed by respondent German patient groups familiar with the company): ViiV Healthcare, 1st - Pfizer, 2nd - MSD*, 3rd. (*known as Merck & Co in Canada and the United States) The top-three pharma companies in Germany in 2021, out of 15 companies, ranked for their overall corporate reputation (as assessed by respondent German patient groups working with the company): ViiV Healthcare, 1st - Pfizer, 2nd - AstraZeneca, 3rd. The top-three 'big-pharma' companies in Germany in 2021, out of 13 'big-pharma' companies, ranked for their overall corporate reputation (as assessed by respondent German patient groups familiar with the company): Pfizer, 1st - MSD, 2nd - Roche, 3rd. Story continues Each company is profiled by the following measures: The number of respondent German patient groups familiar, and working, with the company, 2021. The profile of the respondent German patient groups familiar with the company (the number of patients reached; specialties; and geographic remit), 2021. The types of relationships that the company had with its respondent German patient group partners, 2021. Company performance in Germany at the individual indicators of corporate reputation in 2021- as assessed by respondent German patient groups familiar, and working, with the company. Competitors' relationships in 2021 with the company's respondent German patient group partners. Overall rankings in Germany for the company- as assessed by respondent German patient groups familiar, and working, with the company, 2021 v. 2020. Company rankings in Germany for each of the indicators- as assessed by respondent German patient groups familiar, and working, with the company, 2021 v. 2020. Snapshot view: where the company sits in the corporate tiers in Germany for each of the indicators (in the higher, the middle, or the lower tier)- as assessed by respondent German patient groups familiar, and working, with the company, 2021. Overall rankings of the company in Germany, 2015-2021- expressed on the Patient Corporate Reputation Index (PCRI), a measure designed to standardise the analyst's ranking data (preventing results being skewed by the differing numbers of companies included in Germany's historic analyses over the various years). PCRI ranking is from 0 to 1, with 1 being the best (the highest rank)- as assessed by respondent German patient groups familiar with the company. Profiles of the 24 companies, 2021 AbbVie Amgen AstraZeneca Bayer Biogen Boehringer Ingelheim Bristol Myers Squibb CSL Behring Eli Lilly Gilead Sciences Grunenthal GSK Janssen Merck KGaA MSD Mylan Novartis Novo Nordisk Pfizer Roche Sandoz Sanofi Takeda ViiV Healthcare Key Topics Covered: Executive summary Relationships that German patient groups have with pharma, 2021 Industry-wide findings in Germany, 2021 Rankings of 24 pharma companies in Germany, 2021 v. 2020, as assessed by respondent German patient groups familiar with the companies Rankings of 15 pharma companies in Germany, 2021 v. 2020, as assessed by respondent German patient groups working with the companies Rankings of 13 'big-pharma' companies in Germany, 2021 v. 2020, as assessed by respondent German patient groups familiar with the companies Rankings of 12 'big-pharma' companies in Germany, 2021 v. 2020, as assessed by respondent German patient groups working with the companies Profiles of the 24 companies, 2021 (v. 2020) Appendices I. Profiles of respondent German patient groups, 2021 II. List of respondent German patient groups that wished to be attributed, 2021 III. Commentaries and feedback from respondent German patient groups on how pharma can improve, 2021-2022 For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/jzphwz About ResearchAndMarkets.com ResearchAndMarkets.com is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends. CONTACT: CONTACT: ResearchAndMarkets.com Laura Wood,Senior Press Manager press@researchandmarkets.com For E.S.T Office Hours Call 1-917-300-0470 For U.S./ CAN Toll Free Call 1-800-526-8630 For GMT Office Hours Call +353-1-416-8900 A historic pilgrimage between the Catholic Church, Church of England and the Church of Scotland to South Sudan officially began on Friday as Pope Francis touched down at Juba Airport. On Friday afternoon, a colourful ceremony greeted the pontiffs plane and moderator of the general assembly of the Church of Scotland, Rt Rev Dr Iain Greenshields, and the Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby, boarded to greet him. Hundreds of thousands of people, many waving the British flag, lined the streets, cheering, waving and singing as convoy containing their three spiritual leaders made its way from the airport to the Palais de la Nation. South Sudan gained independence from Sudan in 2011 and is the worlds youngest country. The religious leaders hope the visit will renew a commitment to peace and reconciliation. Rt Rev Dr Iain Greenshields is visiting South Sudan as part of a historic pilgrimage for peace alongside The Pope and the Archbishop of Canterbury (Church of Scotland/PA) Around 400,000 people are said to have lost their lives in the ongoing civil war in the country over the years. An estimated 9.4 million people need humanitarian aid and an estimated two million people have been displaced in the country. Senior Kirk clergy held a private meeting with President Salva Kiir Mayardit and his vice-presidents. Addressing crowds, Pope Francis said: I am pleased to be in this country, which has a special place in my heart. I am grateful to you, Mr President, for your welcome, and I offer a cordial greeting to each of you, and through you, to all the men and women living in this young and beloved country. I have come here as a pilgrim of reconciliation, in the hope of accompanying you on your journey of peace. It is a circuitous journey, yet one that can no longer be postponed. Nor am I here by myself, for in peace as in life, we all journey together. So I have come with two brothers, the Archbishop of Canterbury and the Moderator of the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland, whom I thank for all that they will say to us. Ecumenical Pilgrimage of Peace to #SouthSudan Day 1.@churchmoderator and Principal Clerk, Rev Fiona Smith, along with Rev Ian Alexander, who leads the Churchs international partnership work, visited @christianaids offices in Juba, South Sudan, before welcoming @JustinWelby. pic.twitter.com/YDJAAZ4Hab Church of Scotland (@churchscotland) February 3, 2023 Together, stretching out our hands, we present ourselves to you and to this people in the name of Jesus Christ, the Prince of Peace. Story continues Dr Greenshields said: I come to you in this time of pilgrimage, with my brothers in Christ Pope Francis and Archbishop Justin we come in humility, unity and love. We come from our different traditions as servants of Christ and seek to share His hope that all will be one in Him, that churches and people will work together and witness together for a better future for the people of South Sudan, and for the whole world. Blessed are the peacemakers, said Jesus, who is the Prince of Peace, a peace which brings justice for all families, tribes, nations. Today, we need that peace. We need churches and leaders who are generous of heart, liberal of love, and profligate with Gods grace. We need leaders who care about the values by which our countries live, who care about the conditions in which people live, and who act out their faith in work amongst the most vulnerable and marginalised. These things make for peace. Google appears to have something of a surprise for us as it announced an "emergency" event. They didn't disclose much except that it is about using the power of AI to "reimagine how people search for, explore and interact with information," which makes for a more natural and intuitive search engine. Google's Potential ChatBot Surmising from the provided information, Google might be creating something to match ChatGPT, which is reportedly being integrated into Bing. The event will be live on YouTube and will go on for around 40 minutes. You can watch it on February 8th. Alphabet also held an earnings call, wherein the parent company's CEO Sundar Pichai said that people will be interacting directly with their newest, most powerful language models to assist with searching for information in "experimental and innovative ways." Google already has a foundation to work with given its preexisting technology. They already have a chatbot language known as "LaMDA" which stands for Language Model for Dialogue Applications. The company also holds an image-generating AI that goes by "Imagen." According to Ars Technica, Google is already testing out a chatbot called "Apprentice Bard," a chatbot that uses the LaMDA technology that is not yet released to the public. People use it to ask questions and receive detailed answers the way ChatGPt operates. Read Also: OpenAI's ChatGPT Premium to Launch at $42 a Month Code Red ChatGPT has been gaining popularity for its impressive performance, so much so that Google has declared a "code red" and asked for the help of retired co-founders Larry Page and Sergey Brin. The company might be worried since it could lead people away from its search engine. It could be a legitimate reason to start creating something to compete given the growing number of users that OpenAI, which is responsible for ChatGPT, is getting. That, or they could be scrambling for answers that they shouldn't even worry about in the first place. The company once worried that Facebook was becoming a competitor in terms of a social network, resulting in them creating Google+. We all know how that turned out, and not knowing what happened to it just shows that it did not take off the way it wanted it to. There's also the attempt at entering the ring with Google Express, an online shopping service meant to compete with Amazon Prime. The company painted its closing as a part of its plans to "redesign" its approach to online shopping, as mentioned by TechCrunch. It has been merged with Google Shopping, where they also added new advertising options for brands and online sellers at the time. Still, it appears like Google was not able to build an online shopping presence big enough to even be a threat to the retail giant, Amazon. It's also entirely possible that the event has nothing to do with a new chatbot at all. This is all just speculation until the company does hold the event. According to The Verge, it might be associated with already existing tools like Google Lens, Translate, Shopping, and Maps. Related: Google Adds Biometric Authentication Lock to Chrome Incognito Tabs The Song at the Sea is one of the oldest poems in Torah, and its beauty in the scroll is like nothing else. Some see brickwork, an echo of the labors of slavery. Some see waves rolling in and receding, a reminder of how the sea parted and then rushed back in. The waves, in turn, evoke the midrash about Nachshon ben Aminadav who bravely stepped into the waters and began walking forward. When the waves reached his lips, thats when the waters parted. This is a story about taking a risk and making a leap of faith toward a better life. Every displaced person, asylum-seeker, and refugee could tell us that story. Emerging from circumstances most of us can scarcely imagine, they step into the waters. The act of fleeing home speaks of a situation so dire that staying put is no longer a viable option. In the words of poet Warsan Shire, No one leaves home unless / home is the mouth of a shark. You only run for the border / when you see the whole city / running as well. No one flees unless home is a Narrow Place so tight and terrible that fleeing becomes the best choice. One of my favorite teachings about crossing the Sea comes from Rabbi Shalom Noach Berezofsky, also known as the Slonimer Rebbe. He writes that there are three levels of emunah, "faith" or "trust": the emunah of the heart, the emunah of the mind, and the emunah of the body, and the highest of these is the emunah of the body. That surprised me; I expected mind to be considered higher. Nope. He says when we feel emunah in our bodies, then the divine presence dwells in us, and that is when we become able to sing the Song at the Sea. The Slonimer knows that taking a leap of faith changes us. Inertia would be easier. Giving up would be easier. Leaping into the unknown asks just enough bravery to take the first step. In the act of stepping into the sea comes transformation: the capacity to sing a new song. The Slonimer says that when we take the leap of emunah and walk into the water, Shechinah dwells in us Gods presence is in us, in our very bones. And thats what enables us to sing a song of redemption, a song of hope for something better than whatever we knew before. Our ancient spiritual ancestors couldnt sing the Song until they felt emunah in their bones. And they couldnt feel emunah in their bones until they stepped into the sea. Which means they had to step into the sea before they felt ready. They had to take the plunge without knowing for sure what lay ahead and whether or not the water would part. On a smaller scale, we all have moments like that, on the cusp of change: marriage or divorce, birth or death, choosing a new beginning. Theres a moment when we have to decide to just step into the sea, ready or not. In 1939 my grandparents fled Hitler with my three year old mother in tow. I imagine it was the hardest thing they had ever done. When they arrived on these shores, other Jews from Eastern Europe took care of them: helped them find a place to stay, a way to learn English, the help they needed until they could get on their feet. Thats a kind of kindness that cant be paid back, only paid forward. Even if they repaid every penny (and maybe they did), the repayment couldnt mean as much to the givers as being welcomed had meant when my family needed it. How do we pay it forward? To me the answer is painfully obvious: we pay it forward by welcoming the stranger. We pay it forward by meeting the needs of of the displaced person, the asylum-seeker, the refugee. Every Shabbat (or every day) we sing Mi Chamocha, our song of redemption. We need to let that song galvanize us to fuel the song of justice. The song of human dignity. The song of welcome. The song of Let all who are hungry, come and eat. The song of Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning to breathe free. Each year at Pesach we recount how we fled Egypt after ten terrible plagues with only what we could carry. We eat matzah: the hardtack of slavery, and the waybread of our journey to freedom. For us, that story is symbolic, a metaphor for breaking free from lifes tight places. For displaced people and asylum-seekers and refugees, the Exodus is now. We know the heart of the refugee because our ancestral story the one we tell at seder, the ritual practiced by 70% of American Jews is a story of becoming refugees. Our obligations to todays refugees are clear. When we fled the Narrow Place, a mixed multitude came also, to teach that freedom isnt just for us. Dignity, justice, and safety arent just for us. They are the birthright of every human being. Including asylum-seekers camped at the borders of our nation, and refugees fleeing war and devastation, and parents and children fleeing gender-based violence. During the Shoah, the United States shamefully refused entry to refugees and asylum-seekers many were then slaughtered. We owe it to their memories to do better now by people in need of safe haven. It takes profound emunah to step into the sea not knowing if the waters will part. (Or into a rickety boat, or the back of a pickup truck, or trudging on foot) In our ancestral story, stepping into the Sea opens us to an experience of God that begins to change us from freed slaves into the Jewish people. For 100 million displaced people in the world today, stepping into the Sea is just reality. Jewish values call us to welcome them with sustenance, and clothing, and homes, and safety, and justice, and dignity, and hope. Thats the song that I think is worth singing. This is the d'varling that I offered at Congregation Beth Israel of the Berkshires this Shabbat (cross-posted to the From the Rabbi blog.) HA NOI - At a conference held by the Ministry of Industry and Trade on expanding the export market in Ha Noi on February 3, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh emphasised the importance of boosting external activities and fostering bilateral and multilateral cooperation. Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Natural Resources and Environment Tran Hong Ha and Minister of Industry and Trade Nguyen Hong Dien also attended the conference. Chinh said the ministry should take advantage of the free trade agreements (FTAs) that Viet Nam has joined to help diversify export markets and maintain traditional markets, such as the US, China, the EU, Japan, South Korea and ASEAN. Viet Nam needed to expand its export market to Eastern Europe, the Middle East, South America, South Asia, and Africa and promote supply chain diversification. Negotiations that are ongoing concerning an FTA with Israel and the opportunities from China's reopening after COVID-19 must also be exploited. The PM requested the MoIT implement synchronous solutions to boost exports for commodities with high potential and demand on the global market. In addition, the sector needed to boost domestic purchasing power by implementing trade promotion programmes on the domestic market and promote the distribution of goods via e-commerce channels. It needed to focus on calling for investment in modernising the distribution system in rural and mountainous areas to promote Vietnamese goods. The ministry was also asked to step up market management and the fight against smuggling and trade fraud and take specific solutions to mobilise and bring into full play resources, especially those from different economic sectors. It needed to coordinate with ministries and sectors to reduce logistics service costs to improve competitiveness. The leader also stressed the importance of digital transformation, a green and circular economy, and the climate change response while urging the ministry to quickly complete the four master plans on electricity, energy, minerals and oil and gas infrastructure. At the conference, Minister Nguyen Hong Dien said that in 2023, the Ministry of Industry and Trade would focus on implementing programmes to restore and develop the economy, promote disbursement of public investment capital, creating the supply of materials for sustainable product development. The ministry would focus on solving difficulties for businesses, implementing solutions to removing barriers in terms of credit and administrative procedures to promote economic growth. It would also promote administrative reform, simplify procedures, and create favourable investment, production and business activities conditions. According to a report presented at the conference, industrial production recovered in almost all fields and localities last year, of which processing and manufacturing remained the main growth driver with a rate of 8.1 per cent. Export-import also hit a new record of over US$732.5 billion in revenue, representing a 10-fold rise year-on-year. The trade surplus had been maintained for seven consecutive years, reaching $11.2 billion in 2022. The total retail sales of goods and services increased by nearly 20 per cent, exceeding the set target by 2.5 times. Viet Nam is among the top five countries worldwide for e-commerce growth. At the meeting, the sector proposed the Government continue with policies to boost production and business, attract more foreign investments, and soon build and approve national, regional, provincial and sectoral planning schemes, and further consolidate institutions relating to the sector. VNS Foreign Minister Park Jin and U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken hold a joint press conference after their meeting at the State Department in Washington, D.C., Friday (local time). Reuters-Yonhap Peace without denuclearization is 'fake peace': Seoul's foreign minister By Kang Seung-woo U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken assured South Korea of Washington's full security commitment against North Korea's evolving nuclear threats amid growing doubts here over the credibility of Washington's extended deterrence for its ally. Blinken's remark was made after his meeting with South Korean Foreign Minister Park Jin in Washington, D.C. "We take extended deterrence very seriously. And just in the last year, we've renewed our working group on extended deterrence. We've engaged in multiple exercises. And we have colleagues who at this very moment are working to strengthen and deepen even further our collaboration on extended deterrence," Blinken said during a joint press conference. "We are committed to defending the Republic of Korea using the full range of our capabilities nuclear, conventional missile defense. So there should be no doubt in anyone's mind, starting with Pyongyang, of our commitment to defend our allies, our partners, our friends and to extended deterrence." Extended deterrence refers to the commitment to use a full range of capabilities, including nuclear weapons, to deter attacks on allies. The U.S. has provided extended deterrence, also known as the nuclear umbrella, to South Korea since 1991, the year when the U.S. removed all of its nuclear assets from the Korean Peninsula. However, the modernization of Pyongyang's nuclear and missile programs has prompted many in South Koreans to question this commitment to Seoul. Such mounting skepticism has also raised calls for Seoul to develop its own nuclear weapons. North Korea ended last year with a record number of offensive ballistic missile launches, firing missiles on 38 separate occasions. Park also reaffirmed the U.S. decision to firmly guarantee its commitment to the defense of South Korea. "The ROK and the U.S. will continue our watertight coordination to achieve genuine peace on the Korean Peninsula," he said. The ROK stands for the Republic of Korea, South Korea's official name. "We are committed to strengthening extended deterrence while maintaining a robust combined defense posture. Any provocations by North Korea will be met with a firm and united response," Park added. This was the second time in less than a week that top U.S. government officials have stressed Washington's nuclear security assurances. On Tuesday, Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin said after his meeting with Defense Minister Lee Jong-sup in Seoul that the U.S. stands firm in its extended deterrence commitment, adding that the allies continue to look for ways to strengthen it. Foreign Minister Park Jin shakes hands with U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken after signing a memorandum of understanding during an event at the State Department in Washington, D.C., Friday (local time). AFP-Yonhap HA NOI Some banks have announced plans to pay cash dividends to shareholders for the first time in three years. Accordingly, TPBank is due to pay a cash dividend at a rate of 25 per cent instead of a stock dividend like in previous years. This means that shareholders will receive VN2,500 (US$0.11) per owned share. The payment is expected in the first quarter of 2023. The source is from undistributed profits as of 2021 after disbursing funds according to the audited financial statements. This is the first bank to consult shareholders on cash dividend payments this year. TPBank said that accumulated to the end of 2022, the remaining profit and surplus from funds reached more than VN13.36 trillion. Of which, the undistributed profit until 2021 after distributing to funds was nearly VN5.5 trillion. Last year, TPBank also recorded a 30 per cent growth in profit before tax to nearly VND7.9 trillion, thanks to an increase in fee income and the recovery of customers whose debts were extended during the pandemic, so risk provisions were reduced. Previously, Vietnam International Commercial Joint Stock Bank (VIB) said that if it is approved by the general meeting of shareholders and approved by the State Bank, it can pay a cash dividend of up to 35 per cent of the charter capital, meaning that shareholders owning one VIB share can receive VN3,500 in dividends. According to VIB's representative, the payment rate could be higher if irregular revenues were recorded in 2022. In 2022, VIB recorded a profit before tax of more than VN10.58 trillion, an increase of 32 per cent over the previous year. Similarly, Vietnam Prosperity Commercial Joint Stock Bank (VPBank) and Asia Commercial Joint Stock Bank (ACB) also plan to pay cash dividends this year. VNS HA NOI The prestigious travel booking platform, Booking.com, has listed Viet Nam's northern province of Ninh Binh among the ten most welcoming regions in the world. Ninh Binh has been ranked seventh in the Most Welcoming Regions On Earth, a category of the Traveller Review Awards 2023, by the leading digital hotel booking service that covers more than 220 countries and territories. Along with Viet Nam's Ninh Binh, La Rioja of Spain, Epirus of Greek, Oberosterreich of Austria, County Down of the UK, Mures of Romania, Marlborough of New Zealand, Limon of Costa Rica, Newfoundland & Labrador of Canada and North Dakota of the US were also named. Famous tourist site Ninh Binh, 90km southeast of Ha Noi, has rich cultural and spiritual tourism potential. It also boasts a charming natural landscape and many unique and amazing caves. It was home to the ancient capital of Hoa Lu during the reign of the inh dynasty (968-980). With unique artistic, geological, geomorphic, and landscape values and traces of pre-historic life, the Trang An Landscape Complex of Ninh Binh was recognised by UNESCO as a World Cultural and Natural Heritage Site in June 2014, becoming the first mixed natural and cultural property in Viet Nam. It is also home to several attractions recognised as special national heritage sites. Booking.com also announced Phong Nha and ong Hoi as two landmarks in the central province of Quang Binh Province that are in the top 10 friendliest destinations in Viet Nam for 2023, the 1st and 8th, respectively. Based on a pool of over 240 million verified customer reviews on Booking.com, the Traveller Review Awards 2023 recognises travel providers from across 220 countries and territories, including Viet Nam, for their commitment to providing consistently excellent service and hospitality over the year. For 2023, it has revealed the Most Welcoming Cities in Viet Nam for travellers to experience the best in hospitality and friendliness for a truly memorable travel experience. Beach cities continue to be the most favoured place for holidays, with six out of 10 cities being beach destinations. This year, the Traveller Review Awards honours 1.36 million accommodation service suppliers worldwide in terms of hospitality level, including more than 10,000 in Viet Nam. Hotels continue to take the top spot as the most-awarded property type in the country, with 4,190 partners being recognised for their efforts, according to a report on vietreader.com. Apartments claim the second spot with 1,587 properties being awarded, followed by homestays (1,467), guest houses (411) and aparthotels (439), the report said. Global travel conditions As travel continues to make its return in most parts of the world, Booking.com revealed apartments and homes continue to shine as the most-awarded property type globally, with apartments taking the top spot for the sixth year in a row, with a total of 629,421 partners being recognised for their efforts in the 2023 edition of the Traveller Review Awards. Also, for the first time in the award's history, holiday homes have claimed the second spot from hotels, with guest houses and bed and breakfasts rounding out the top five. When it comes to the countries being recognised with the most awards for homes, apartments and other unique places to stay, Italy, Spain, France, Germany, and Croatia lead the way. To be recognised with an award, Booking.com requested accommodation partners to have an average review score of 8.0 out of 10 or higher based on at least three reviews as of 11.59pm on November 30, 2022. Car rental partners had to have an average review score of 8.5 out of 10 or higher based on at least 20 reviews. Only customers that have stayed at an accommodation, rented a car or a taxi can leave a review of their experience on Booking.com. As these reviews are never edited or adjusted, travellers can reference them for an authentic account of the real experience at every place to stay or with every ground transport provider. Arjan Dijk, SVP and Chief Marketing Officer for Booking.com, commented: Its that personal attention to detail when checking in or sharing helpful recommendations to explore the destination like a local that demonstrates how our partners show up and shine for travellers in a multitude of ways each and every day." The official said the awards were regarded as a way to thank partners for their dedication to making everyone feel welcome and going out of their way to create incredible customer experiences. "Whether its a friendly greeting from a taxi driver at the airport, sharing some local driving tips at the car rental counter or a thoughtful note waiting in the room, our passionate partners help make every trip more special, Dijk said on Booking.com. VNS Lieutenant General Nguyen Manh Hung, secretary of the General Department of Defence Industry's Party Committee and Political Commissar, spoke to Quan oi nhan dan (People's Army) newspaper on the national defence industry's progress and missions for the future. What are the highlights of the national defence industry in 2022? The national defence industry achieved remarkable results last year with the attention of the Party and the State, the Central Military Commission (CMC) and the Ministry of Defence (MoD), the coordination and support of other ministries and departments, as well as the efforts and determination of everyone in the sector. One of the highlights was the consultation with the CMC on the new Resolution No 08-NQ/TW on accelerating the defence industrys development to 2030 and beyond, which was submitted to the Politburo for approval and issuance. The MoD built an action programme to realise the resolution and submitted it to the Prime Minister for approval. This demonstrates the strategic vision of the mission to develop a self-reliant, multi-functional defence industry that responds to the need to build a modern military. At the same time, a dossier recommending the formation of the Law on National Defence, Security and Industrial Mobilisation was completed, allowing the issuance of circulars and regulations that manage and study the design and production of weapons and technical equipment. The defence industry also saw breakthroughs in research and mastering a number of core and fundamental technologies; designing, manufacturing and producing a wide variety of arms and equipment, military vessels, as well as supporting tools for law enforcement forces and civilian use. In the context where market demands are declining and export-import activities encounter multiple challenges, defence industry units have been actively promoting cooperation with local and international businesses to improve production and ensure stable income and employment for workers. The total revenue of the industry reached VN33 trillion (US$1.4 billion) in 2022, of which 59 per cent is economic revenue. Another notable achievement is the success of international cooperation in the defence industry and the Viet Nam International Defence Expo 2022, which attracted the participation of 174 defence businesses from 30 countries, and received high regard from the international community. This has contributed to the position and reputation of the country, its military and defence industry, opening up numerous cooperation opportunities in the sector with other countries. Which breakthrough solutions were put in place to achieve these results? First and foremost, the human factor is identified as the most important. We pay attention to building high quality personnel, particularly in research and development. We also formed specialised research teams that focus on several key aspects. We also link research with production, ensuring that research institutes are the science-technology foundation for factories. Last year, solutions have been studied and proposed to maintain and improve product quality and repair to ensure stability. Several research projects on new arms production and technical support were also deployed. In regard to economic development, the General Department of Defence Industry has put forward new strategies and solutions with stringent implementation, which has transformed the thinking on economic development in the sectors units and departments. Exchanges and connections with local and international businesses were also established, allowing practical and effective cooperation. Several defence businesses have become partners and suppliers for major enterprises. International standards have also been actively applied in business management and operations, as well as product quality control and digital transformation. The department also focuses on promoting collective power in its mission and actively coordinates with other units for common growth. What are the challenges facing the defence industry and the solutions to alleviate these issues? While the national defence industry has seen comprehensive progress, there are still several shortcomings such as the limited coordination between institutions and policies, or among ministries and departments in the sectors development. Financial investment and resources for the industry are not yet sufficient, and there are few multi-functional products for civilian use and export. We still have limitations in mastering the fundamental technology and special materials. To alleviate these issues, the industry has been implementing multiple missions and solutions. The first is focusing on and proposing a complete legal framework for the defence industry, including specific mechanisms and policies on science-technology research and application. We also implement projects that invest in the industrys potential, mobilising resources and developing high-quality human resources. Business structures were also streamlined to ensure productivity and efficiency. In addition, the General Department of Defence Industry also suggests and actively consults with the MoD on implementing the mid-term public investment plan in the 2021-25 period, diversifying and effectively using investments to develop the industrys potential. The department continues to research and develop mid and long-term investment plans and projects for a modern, multi-functional defence industry. Other tasks include consultation, development and implementation of coordination mechanisms in the sector, promoting joint ventures, technology transfer and international cooperation in product research, production and consumption. How has the General Department of Defence Industry attracted and developed high-quality human resources? The defence industrys human resources are seeing progress in terms of both quantity and quality, with an increase in the number of masters and doctoral degree holders specialising in new and advanced technology. To achieve these results, the department has always considered attracting and building high quality human resources a key and fundamental solution, which decides immediate and long-term development. Recruitments are also conducted based on positions demands, reforms and the departments structure and efficiency improvement. More human resources are assigned to special technical departments. Priority is also given to well-trained people with science-technology and foreign language qualifications, who have the capacity to receive technology transfer, design, produce and repair hi-tech products, and work in an international environment. The department also looks into and applies suitable policies and benefits to attract and retain qualified staff, such as ensuring a good working environment, conditions for development, income and housing. To improve the industrys development in the new context, the department is proposing to the MoD to develop specific policies and frameworks that help attract, train and motivate high-quality human resources. What are the key missions of the General Department of Defence Industry in the future? The first mission is to focus on implementing managerial missions assigned by the State on the industry, and building institutions following the direction of the CMC. We will also continue our work on the missions identified in the governments action programme and the MoDs plans in regard to Politburos Resolution No 08; the draft Law on National Defence, Security and Industrial Mobilisation after receiving the approval for our dossier; and the proposal for specific mechanisms in the industrys development. The second is to build the plan and peoples determination for the project restructuring businesses in the 2021-25 period, which focuses on merging enterprises in military ship production and repair, with a strict, determined and appropriate action roadmap that ensures efficiency, stability and growth. The third is to successfully research and manufacture modern arms and equipment. In 2023, we focus on studying the design and production of strategic weapons, completing the required procedures to start producing military vehicles, effectively implementing science-technology research and development programmes on mobile complexes and new-generation precision weapons, and extending studies in accordance with the MoDs plans. The fourth is to continue developing strong research personnel and assign specific tasks to research groups, in order to meet the demands in production goals following Resolution No 08. VNS HA NOI Local officials and experts discussed the establishment of the national database centre at a conference held in Ha Noi on Friday, highlighting that the right approach will make it a driving force for the countrys development. Deputy Minister of Public Security Nguyen Duy Ngoc said the centre that was being studied to propose to the Government, would be centred around people, aiming to serve people, businesses and the Government. He noted that this centre had been assigned to the Ministry of Public Security which has substantial experience in projects on collecting and developing national data on population as well as identity card and electronic identity verification projects. He stressed that the ministry had a police force at four levels with strict discipline and the capacity to carry out the task that the Government assigned. "We are in the first steps of building it and there will be many challenges and even issues that we have never dealt with, such as the legality of the centre," he said. This requires leaders at all levels, ministries, branches and localities to have a high political determination to be able to have the centre ready and put into use effectively, he said, noting that while this would be the main one, member centres would also be needed and human resources would be a key factor to ensure effectiveness. Professor, Dr. Ho Tu Bao, Director of the Data Science Laboratory of the Vietnam Institute for Advanced Study in Mathematics (VIASM), consultant of Project 06, said: Data connectivity and data mining are at the heart of digital transformation. The source of data and connections created and exploited is the basis and engine of innovation and digital transformation, and creates a lot of opportunities for connection and sharing. A right data strategy will create momentum for the development of the country, he said. Associate Professor, Dr. Ta Hai Tung, Rector of the School of Information and Communication Technology, Hanoi University of Science and Technology, said: "The sharing of data can bring large benefits, helping GDP growth increase from 1 to 2.5 per cent, which means direct and indirect benefits of up to billions of US dollars. The connection and sharing of data allow improvements in transparency and accountability as well as create a driving force for socio-economic development, he said. He stressed the need to put people at the centre, calling for clear policies and implementation roadmap along with the construction of investment technology infrastructure. Participant experts and scientists also discussed security and safety in data sharing. The Ministry of Public Security assigned the Police Department for Administrative Management of Social Order to gather the opinions of the participants and further discuss them at an upcoming conference. In January last year, PM Pham Minh Chinh signed Decision No. 06/Q-TTg on developing the application of data on population, identification, and electronic authentication data for national digital transformation in the 2022-2025 period, with a vision to 2030. Under the scheme, the national population database, e-identification and e-authentication system as well as citizen ID cards with electronic chips will be used flexibly and creatively to serve administrative procedures and online public services, socio-economic expansion, digital citizens development, the completion of the ecosystem on connecting, exploiting and enriching population data, and the directions by leaders at all levels. In the 2023-2025 period, e-identification and e-authentication are expected to be applied to all people conducting administrative procedures at one-stop-shop offices at all levels. Meanwhile, in 2022-2023, the e-identification and e-authentication system will be upgraded, completed and applied in e-transactions serving socio-economic development. VNS HEINEKEN Vietnam and the National Traffic Safety Committee (NTSC) renewed their partnership in December with the initiative When You Drink, Never Drive (WYDND) which advocates a positive shift away from unhealthy drink-driving behaviours. The scheme has been in place, in one shape or another, since 2008, and will take an alternative approach to the issue over the next two years. The partnership aims to pilot activities that reinforce road safety culture, promoting responsible drinking and clean driving habits for state agency and local enterprise employees. The NTSC and HEINEKEN Vietnam have worked together to create a set of traffic safety regulations within the WYDND framework, and the initiative will present comprehensive and practical solutions with the purpose of safeguarding Vietnamese consumers against dangerous consumption and behaviour. Tran Huu Minh, head of the NTSC Office, complimented HEINEKEN Vietnams efforts. The company has proactively organised awareness campaigns for state agencies and enterprises to encourage their staff to adopt healthy habits towards responsible consumption for the benefit of personal health and the community. I hope the programme is implemented on a larger scale in the near future," he said. The WYDND scheme will be piloted at two different centres, the Ho Chi Minh Public Transport Management Centre and VITRANIMEX Transportation and Trading JSC. The cooperation will present comprehensive and practical solutions with the purpose of safeguarding Vietnamese consumers against dangerous consumption and behaviours. After conducting a performance evaluation at these two centres, the NTSC will establish a set of standards for the application of the initiative at future enterprises and administrative agencies. Tran Minh Triet, deputy managing director at HEINEKEN Vietnam said, "Teaming up with the NTSC is an opportunity for us to support and disseminate our traffic safety message to state agencies and enterprises nationwide, instilling positive habits in individuals within these organisations, as well as consumers. As part of its commitment to the scheme, the company has deployed a Safe Pick-Up initiative that guarantees employees will get home safely every day. HEINEKEN Vietnam saw a prosperous 2022 as they quickly overcame post-pandemic obstacles and maintained their steadfast dedication to the ambition of sustainable development. The beer producer remains one of the top socially accountable businesses after more than three decades of growth in Vietnam. Vietnam and South Korea level up comprehensive strategic partnership The Comprehensive Strategic Partnership is opening a new stage of development for the relationship and investment opportunities between Vietnam and South Korea. Strategic framework for sustainable development between UN and Vietnam The Ministry of Planning and Investment (MPI) and the United Nations have just signed the One Strategic Framework for Sustainable Development Cooperation agreement for the 2022-2026 period. Tuisha Seksaria and Gaurav Palrecha's wedding at Sheraton Grand Danang Resort Hotel A traditional Indian wedding is a multi-day affair, filled with a variety of ceremonies that celebrate the love and union of the couple. Tuisha and Gaurav's wedding was no exception, with the Haldi ceremony at the resort's trademark pavilion, the Korath and Nikasi ceremony at The Grill Restaurant, and the Varmala and Pheras ceremony at the resort's infinity pool overlooking Non Nuoc beach. The wedding decorations were inspired by trademark Vietnamese materials such as bamboo, coconut, and rattan, which added a unique cultural touch to the event. The couple performing their traditional Indian wedding rites The couple wrapped up their celebration with a Sangeet night, named Gems that Rock, where the bride, groom, and their families came together to celebrate their union with music, dance, and laughter. The Grand Ballroom at the Sheraton Grand Danang Resort & Convention Center was the perfect setting for this celebration with its 10-meter-high ceilings and 1,267 square metres of space to accommodate all the guests. This occasion was a testament to the resort's ability to host Indian weddings of the highest calibre. From the versatile indoor and outdoor venues and the authentic cuisine to the attention to detail paid to every aspect of the ceremonies, the Sheraton Grand Danang Resort & Convention Center demonstrated its commitment to ensuring a successful and memorable event for the couple and their guests. The gorgeously colourful Grand Ballroom at the Sheraton Grand Danang Resort for the super wedding of Tuisha and Gaurav Commenting on hosting the wedding, the resort's General Manager David Ippersiel said, "We are thrilled to have hosted Tuisha and Gaurav's wedding at our resort. This is the second time we have hosted an Indian billionaire wedding, and our staff are well-versed in the traditional customs and requirements of hosting such a special and unique event. Our facilities are perfectly equipped to host ceremonies of this calibre, and we look forward to welcoming more Indian couples in the future." The BRG Group-owned Sheraton Grand Danang Resort & Convention Center is an expansive luxury resort offering 270 guest rooms and suites each with a view of the ocean or infinity pool. The resort offers six signature restaurants and bars featuring a variety of local and international cuisines, along with an impressive selection of guest amenities and activities including a 250-meter-long infinity pool the longest in Vietnam and a dedicated convention centre comprising fourteen function spaces with more than 3,300 sq.m of floor space. Sheraton Grand Danang Resort welcomes new general manager David Ippersiel has been appointed as the new general manager at Sheraton Grand Danang Resort. A veteran of Marriott International for nearly 20 years, Ippersiel's competence in sales, marketing, and operations is the perfect combination to increase the resort's market share in both the leisure and corporate sectors. Having dispatched a crack team of taste testers to Austin, their mission being to sample Terry Blacks Barbecue, yours truly can vouch for its tastiness. Those testers, by the way, included my wife, daughters and a son-in-law. Why they left me behind is another story. The Tribune-Herald reported in March last year that Terry Blacks Barbecue, a chain that started in Austin about a decade ago, had a deal to open a restaurant in the former Morrison Heating & Plumbing Supply building at Eighth Street and Mary Avenue. Now, construction plans are making the rounds at City Hall, various departments involved in the permitting process taking a look, said Bobby Horner, spokesperson for Wacos inspection services department. Horner said signs point to an impressive new use of the building, which would undergo extensive interior renovation and expansion. Terry Blacks Barbecue will open there a BBQ joint and general store to sell themed merchandise, local real estate agent Clay Fuller said. The Terry Blacks Barbecue website says stores at the companys locations in Lockhart, Austin and Dallas sell hats, T-shirts, rubs, sauces and aprons. Horner said Rogers-OBrien Construction will serve as general contractor on creating a Terry Blacks presence in downtown Waco. That is the same company overseeing construction of the new Waco High School. Toasted Yolk Where was The Toasted Yolk Cafe when the Tribune-Herald needed you? The Houston-based chain that dotes on breakfast, brunch and drinks is remodeling space at 1725 Washington Ave. Signs have arrived, confirmed Waco real estate agent Colt Kelly, with Kelly Realtors, who brought Toasted Yolk to Waco. Had it already opened, workers would have been quotable sources for last Sundays Tribune-Herald feature on rising egg prices. The chains menu includes Egg Specialties, that highlight wondrous uses for the egg in preparing meals. There is the Cowboy Scramble, for example, which features two split buttermilk biscuits covered with bacon, sausage, ham, onions and three scrambled eggs topped with country gravy. Obviously a light dish for diners watching their calories and cholesterol. Joking aside, the offerings look yummy, personally speaking. They include French toast, Belgian waffles, buttermilk pancakes, brisket tacos and the pork chop breakfast. Later in the day, diners can avail themselves of soup, sandwiches, salads, chili, grilled chicken and more. Bank buy Heres a transaction one does not see every day, involving a bank and a credit union chummy enough to make deals with each other. Citizens State Bank and First Central Credit Union have announced Citizens State Bank will sell its location in Marlin to First Central Credit Union. Citizens State Bank Chair Harry Brooks said in a press release the bank is selling its Marlin location to focus resources on Harris and Tyler counties. The credit union will assume certain deposit liabilities and acquire certain assets, including real estate, personal property, loans, and other assets, the press release says. As of Dec. 31, the Marlin branch had $26.3 million in deposits. First Central President and CEO Jo Betsy Tyler said the acquisition allows it to offer new products, services, technology and financial options to Marlin, surrounding communities and Falls County. Around since 1937, it now has branches in McLennan, Brown and Hill counties. Building permit roundup Recently issued building permits of note include one valued at $4 million to Envases Commerce, which will place a commercial building at 1901 Wycon Drive. Based in Mexico and with production facilities internationally, Envases announced it will make aluminum cans in Waco. Waco and McLennan County in late 2020 signed off on economic development grants of up to $6.8 million in support of Envases planned $100 million investment in Waco operations. Billy Bobs Burgers, 300 S. Second St. downtown, took out a permit for tenant space reallocation, according to information provided by the local office of Associated General Contractors of America in its newsletter. High school students in a new program at the Greater Waco Advanced Health Care Academy got to practice the outreach and advocacy skills they will need as Community Health Workers by organizing their first health fair on campus Friday. GWAHCA, where Waco-area upperclassmen can earn medical certifications, started offering the Community Health Workers track last year. GWAHCA Dean Matt Rambo said Community Health Workers have broad health-related knowledge and can help patients navigate bureaucratic mazes and stay on top of paperwork. Its quite valuable because it is complicated with insurance, or Medicare and Medicaid, Rambo said. It can be difficult to navigate, and the community health care worker is supposed to be able to help them. Jocelyn West, a health science instructor whose students organized the fair at the GWACHA campus, said during the programs first year students went from class to class with information before attending a health fair at Jubilee Market this year, where they learned how to stage to their own event. They fill that gap with patients that need health education and training, West said. When nurses and medical assistants are busy in the clinic, they go to this specific community health worker to get those resources. The state of Texas requires 160 hours of classwork before students can be certified as Community Health Workers. However, the name of the certification is not the term they will generally look for on job listing sites. Instead, they might be called a patient advocate or similar term. West said most GWAHCA graduates find jobs quickly whether they are on the Certified Nursing Assistant track, pharmacy technician track or Certified Clinical Medical Assistant track, and most stay in the Central Texas area unless they are leaving for college. Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas, and Scott & White Health Plan both had booths at Fridays event where outreach specialists distributed information about services for Medicaid recipients. Impact Research Institute had a booth distributing information about free liver disease screenings, and Planned Parenthood brought information about health care and classes it offers. Community Health Worker students Marbella Madrigal, Anissa Sanchez, Mia Marquez, Rahde Sterling and Mia Orta worked at different stations throughout the day, checking attendees blood pressure, blood glucose levels, heights and weights. The event was open to the public, with most visitors coming from GWAHCA. Sanchez said she has always wanted a career that would help people, and the interviewing and listening skills she is learning could be useful as she pursues work as a therapist later in life. All but one student said she plans to eventually leave the Waco area for higher wages elsewhere. I feel like in Waco, you could help more people in the community, Sanchez said. Sterling, who plans to become a pharmacist, said Waco is especially in need of people with the Community Health Worker skillset. Waco is a more in need community, Sterling said. So if CHW is the career path you want to go on, its probably better to be in Waco. Rambo, the GWAHCA dean, said 100 GWAHCA students got certified last year as nurses aides and 64 got certified as Community Health Workers. He also said many students who came to GWAHCA for the nursing program switched to the Community Health Worker course when they decided nursing was not for them. Alexis Meacham, a senior in the Certified Nursing Assistant program, said she works part-time at Ridgecrest Retirement and Healthcare Community in Waco and plans to become a surgeon later in her career. She said caring for multiple patients who are at risk for falling or who suffer from dementia makes the work both demanding and occasionally scary. Its really interesting, and you have to be really driven for it, she said. Its difficult, I will admit, and you have to have a will to care for people. Bound for the Brave 5K A Bound For The Brave 5K/10K Run will start at 8 a.m. Feb. 18 at the Woodway Public Safety Department, 920 Estates Drive. All proceeds will be donated to the Texas Police Chiefs Association Foundation and the Heart of Texas 100 Club to assist families of first responders who were injured or killed in the line of duty. Registration costs $30. To sign up, go to discoverwoodway.com/events or runsignup.com to sign up. Mardi Gras Ball The Waco Mardi Gras Ball will start at 7 p.m. Feb. 18 at the Base at the Extraco Events Center, 4601 Bosque Blvd. Proceeds benefit the Advocacy Center for Crime Victims and Children. There will be music by Manhattan, food from The Olive Branch, a silent auction and a traditional auction. Tickets cost $250 per person and are available at advocacycntr.org. 42 domino tournament The annual Westphalia Knights of Columbus Council 42 Domino Tournament will be held Feb. 19 at the Westphalia Community Parish Hall on Highway 320 in Westphalia. Registration will start at 11:30 a.m., followed by play at 12:30. Each player will draw for a partner between rounds and will play four 30-minute rounds. Cost is $5 per player. For more information, call 254-721-4443 or 254-985-2510. Free legal clinic Greater Waco Legal Services monthly free legal clinic will run from 6 to 8 p.m. Monday at Indian Spring Middle School, 500 N. University Parks Drive. The clinic provides free 20-30 minute consultations on a first-come, first-served basis. For more information, call 254-733-2828 or email staff@greaterwacolegalservices.org. Hearts in the Arts Gala Reservations are open for the 21st annual Hearts in the Arts Gala, sponsored by the McLennan Community College Foundation. This years Gala on Feb. 23 will feature a McLennan Theatre performance of The Addams Family-A New Musical at the MCC Ball Performing Arts Center. Tickets are $100 each and include drinks and dining at 6 p.m. and the performance at 7:30 p.m. Gala reservations are due by Feb. 16. To make reservations, call 254-299-8604 or email reservations@mclennan.edu. Parviz Shahbazov, the energy minister for Azerbaijan, and Mohammed Abdullah Rashid Abunayan, the chairman of the board of ACWA Power in Saudi Arabia, signed a cooperation agreement during the 9th ministerial meeting of the Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council and the 1st ministerial meeting of the Green Energy Advisory Council, both of which were held in Baku, Azernews reports. According to the agreement, Azerbaijan will implement a 1.5 GW offshore wind energy project. Shahbazov claims that the partnership with ACWA Power is growing through initiatives involving wind farms with a combined capacity of 2.5 GW and the development of battery energy storage systems, which are novel in our nation. "These projects are further contributions to the implementation of the state policy on the development of Azerbaijan as a country of "green growth" and supplier of green energy. Our joint activity with ACWA Power is of importance for reducing carbon emissions and accelerating the energy transition, as well as ensuring new capacities for the planned green energy corridor from the Caspian to Europe," he said. Under the direction of its wise and forward-thinking leadership, Azerbaijan continues to maintain an upward trajectory towards a cleaner, more sustainable future, as Mohammad Abunayyan, Chairman of ACWA Power, added. "At ACWA Power we greatly value our relationship with our Azerbaijani partners and with the signing of the new agreements today, we are excited to expand our role in accelerating the nations energy transformation," he added. Meanwhile, the cooperation is currently underway with ACWA Power on the construction of the 240 MW Khizi-Absheron wind power plant. Korean American U.S. Rep. Young Kim (R-CA) was selected to head the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on the Indo-Pacific, her office said Friday. Kim became the first Korean American chair of the subcommittee, which deals with crucial foreign policy issues in the region, including the two Koreas, China, Taiwan and Japan. "U.S. foreign policy decisions in the Indo-Pacific region will be pivotal in determining America's future and standing on the world stage," Kim said. "I am humbled to serve as chair of this important subcommittee and will work with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to promote global human rights, support fellow freedom-loving countries, strengthen free trade with our allies and hold our adversaries accountable," she added. Kim is among the first Korean American women in U.S. Congress, along with Marilyn Strickland (D-WA) and Michelle Park Steel (R-CA). She was born in South Korea and grew up in the U.S. territory of Guam. Kim moved to Hawaii and then to California, where she attended the University of Southern California and later ran several businesses. She served as a California state lawmaker from 2014 to 2016 and was elected to the House of Representatives in 2020. (Yonhap) Weather Alert .Warming temperatures this weekend will bring renewed snowmelt and streamflow rises, especially for snow covered terrain below about 7000 feet. Creeks that brought impacts this past week are likely to be problematic again and potentially reach higher levels, especially by late Sunday. ...FLOOD WATCH FOR SNOWMELT IN EFFECT FROM SATURDAY AFTERNOON THROUGH MONDAY MORNING... * WHAT...Flooding caused by snowmelt is possible. * WHERE...Portions of California and western Nevada, including the following areas, in California, Greater Lake Tahoe Area, Lassen-Eastern Plumas-Eastern Sierra Counties and Surprise Valley California. In western Nevada, Greater Lake Tahoe Area, Greater Reno-Carson City-Minden Area and Mineral and Southern Lyon Counties. * WHEN...From Saturday afternoon through Monday morning. * IMPACTS...Creeks and streams will be running high and fast. Low-water crossings may be flooded. Minor mainstem flooding along the Susan River, Forks of the Carson River, and the East Walker River below Bridgeport Reservoir cannot be ruled out. Anyone participating in outdoor recreation this weekend should use caution as water will be running high, fast, and potentially out of banks for some creeks and streams. The water will be extremely cold as well, quickly causing shock. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS... - http://www.weather.gov/safety/flood PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS... You should monitor later forecasts and be alert for possible Flood Warnings. Those living in areas prone to flooding should be prepared to take action should flooding develop. && Marlton, NJ (08053) Today Partly cloudy. Near record high temperatures. High 87F. Winds SW at 10 to 15 mph.. Tonight Cloudy. Slight chance of a rain shower. Low 61F. Winds S at 5 to 10 mph. Perhaps the least heralded of the Taos Society of Artists, William Herbert Buck Dunton both challenged and sold the romanticization of the American Wild West. After befriending Ernest Blumenschein at New Yorks Art Students League, the artist headed to Taos in 1912, moving there permanently in 1914. A founding member of the Taos Society of Artists, Dunton is getting his local due at the Harwood Museum of Art in William Herbert Buck Dunton: A Mainer Goes West through May 21. Independent curator Michael K. Komanecky and Betsy Fahlman, adjunct curator of American Art at the Phoenix Art Museum, with additional help from Harwood curator Nicole Dial-Kay, organized the exhibition. In 1915, Dunton helped found the TSA along with Blumenschein, Oscar Berninghaus, E. Irving Couse, Bert Phillips and Joseph Henry Sharp. These artists banded together to promote their paintings of Taos and its surroundings to a national audience. These artists spread the gospel of the romantic West, complete with cowboys on horseback, sweeping landscapes and stunning peaks. These artists also encountered the Native people of Taos Pueblo, as well as the Hispanics who settled the area in 1542. At the time, many Americans viewed both the landscape and the cultures as exotic. They toured Taos and other parts of the American Southwest as part of a nascent cultural tourism industry. Born in Augusta, Maine, in 1878, Dunton spent his youth hunting and fishing and devouring the dime-store novels hawking stories of the Wild West. What he found in Taos initially disappointed him. The Wild West he had so fantasized about was already disappearing. I was born too late and came too late, he wrote. Recalling his own experiences as a cowhand in the late 1890s, he lamented, This was a great cattle country a few years ago, but Now, there isnt a steer to be seen. Ginger, William Herbert Buck Dunton, c. 1932, oil on canvas, gift of Vivian Dunton. (Courtesy of the Harwood Museum of Art of the University of New Mexico) McMullin, Guide, William Herbert Buck Dunton, c. 1934, oil on canvas, bequest of H.J. Lutcher Stark, 1965. (Courtesy of the Stark Museum of Art, Orange, Texas) Pastor de Cabras, William Herbert Buck Dunton, 1926, oil on canvas. ( Courtesy of Albuquerque Museum) My Children, William Herbert Buck Dunton, circa 1922, oil on canvas, gift of a friend, 1927, photo by Blair Clark. (Courtesy of the Collection of the New Mexico Museum of Art) Sunset in the Foothills, William Herbert Buck Dunton, c. 1930, oil on canvas, bequest of Nelda C. Stark, 1999. (Courtesy of the Stark Museum of Art, Orange, Texas) Prev 1 of 5 Next After leaving high school at 16, Dunton headed West to work as a cow puncher. He traveled to Montana, Nebraska, Arizona and New Mexico, only to discover he lacked the skills. He was so bad, he said he couldnt rope a sick chicken, Dial-Kay said. He returned East, studying art at the Cowles Art School in Boston, where he worked as a publishing company illustrator. Then Blumenschein told him to go to Taos. He was there on the ground floor of TSA, Dial-Kay said. Its one of the only landscape school of arts in the U.S. Duntons works featured the men, women, children, wildlife, and the landscape of Taos common fare for the Taos Society of Artist members. But his portrayals of women were different. Romaldita, c. 1922, shows an elegant woman riding a horse. With her fist on her hip, she appears strong and independent, sure of herself and her station. She stands as a defiant counterpoint to his rugged cowboys and ranchers. In Pastor de Cabras, (Herder of Goats) 1926, he shows a shepherd tending his goats and dog, his face and eyes stern and weary under the weight of the work. He looks a little tired and broken, Dial-Kay said. But theres this incredible peace with this boy and the animals hes caring for. Viewers may sense a stirring of discomfort in Duntons stunning portrait of his children, c. 1922. Again, it strays from that romanticized ideal, Dial-Kay said. At the time, he was going through a separation from his wife and you can see the tension in the family. Dunton found enough of the old West to stir his artistic imagination. Nathan Ginger Dowell worked as a trapper and rancher in Taos Canyon in the 1920s and in the 1930s he built a cabin on the 2,000-acre Six Mile Ranch north of Taos. His portrait of Dowell shows a handsome, physically robust mustachioed man holding a dead coyote in his hand. Dowell was a bounty hunter who earned his reward from ranchers and the federal government for killing animals that preyed on cattle and other livestock. McMullin, Guide was painted a couple of years later c. 1934 and repeats this Western male stereotype. But toward the end of his life, Dunton became something of a conservationist. In his writings of the 1930s, he disavowed the need to hunt bears, refuting the commonly held belief that bears were dangerous to those who encountered them, recognizing instead their natural inclination to avoid human contact. He fell in love with bears, painting them repeatedly. The exhibition next moves to the Phoenix Art Museum. I dont think anyones going to see this many paintings by Dunton in their lifetime, Dial-Kay said. Everyone who has a Dunton does not travel them; theyre such gems. These works are very valuable; theyre such jewels of New Mexico. Its time for a trip to Treeborhood. This is the fictional town in the PBS KIDS animated series, Work It Out Wombats!, where viewers will learn lessons from Malik, Zadie and Zeke. The animated series premieres at 9:30 a.m. Monday, Feb. 6, on PBS KIDS, channel 5.2. It will then rebroadcast at 11:30 a.m. on New Mexico PBS, channel 5.1. It will also air on the PBS Video app. The residents of the Treeborhood wombats, snakes, moose, kangaroos, iguanas, fish, tarsiers and eagles bring varied skills and abilities, assorted ways of thinking, and different family structures and traditions to this diverse and vibrant community of neighbors, a place where even the adults join in the play. Malik, Zadie and Zeke are passionate about their goals, but they dont always know the best way to go about meeting them, said Marcy Gunther and Marisa Wolsky, executive producers, GBH Kids. But in every story, we see the Wombats using computational thinking, a powerful toolkit, to work it out. Gunther says the series strikes a balance of telling stories for preschoolers that are educational, fun and engaging. Malik is thoughtful, considerate and sometimes set in his ways (which can be a good thing when youre problem-solving). His speedy, adventurous younger sister, Zadie, is a brainstormer extraordinaire, with ideas that range from silly to very smart. Zeke is the youngest sibling a funny, curious cuddle-bug who loves to play and explore. Super, their grandmother, is the Superintendent and unofficial Mayor of the Treeborhood. Each episode includes two 11-minute stories, accompanied by a 90-second music video, featuring the Wombats as they demonstrate their computational thinking skills, learning as they go. Their aspirations sometimes exceed their abilities, but with every problem they encounter, the trio stops, takes a breath, puts their heads together and comes up with a workable solution, using the design process, sequencing, debugging and other key computational thinking skills. Creative producer Darlene Mortel Edouard and Gunther were part of the driving force behind the series. Along the journey, there were plenty of learning curves. Working on the series, we didnt have a property behind it so we started everything from scratch, says Mortel Edouard. We wanted the show to inform the viewers. When we met with the writers, we wanted them to think on their own lives and experiences as a child. Im the oldest and Im more like Malik. My younger sister is like Zadie. It was a truly collaborative process. Gunther says the writers were encouraged to write about their experiences growing up. The writers would pitch an idea and then wed try to find one that is a good fit for computational thinking, Gunther says. Mortel Edouard says computational thinking is a way to solve complex problems in the field of computer science. For preschoolers, we take an unplugged look, Mortel Edouard says. We wanted the stories to be entertaining and relatable. Gunther says there was an emphasis on the family dynamic for the series as well. We wanted this community to reflect and represent different family structures and families that speak different languages, Gunther says. We made it so every child in the audience can see themselves in the show. ON TV The PBS KIDS animated series, Work It Out Wombats!, premieres at 9:30 a.m. Monday, Feb. 6, on PBS KIDS, channel 5.2. It will then rebroadcast at 11:30 a.m. on New Mexico PBS, channel 5.1. It also airs on the PBS Video app. Later this month I will visit Washington D.C. for a conference. I hope to go to some museums while I am there. There is much for a visitor to do in Washington. My youngest daughter lived in D.C. for six months while visiting American University and working for a nonprofit organization. She loved it. But there is a dark side to Washington. It is the location of our government. And it is really impossible to overstate the silliness that comes from our government. On Jan. 10, the House passed House Resolution 23. This bill was passed on party lines. It eliminated $81 billion of the $89 billion appropriated for IRS improvements. The House kept about 10% of the new IRS money. That was the portion allocated to improved taxpayer service and telephone support operations. Out was 90% allocated for increased enforcement activities and agency support operations, such as improved technology. The Congressional Budget Office estimates that H.R. 23 will add $114.3 billion to the deficit over the next 10 years. This bill is dead on arrival. The House knows this. It is a political statement, not a serious legislative action. What is that political statement? That the IRS is out of control and needs oversight by Congress. It is extremely difficult to have any contact with the IRS these days or the past few years. I am a bit confused how an increasingly absent IRS is out of control. I am not at all confused about Congress being out of control. Yet the House is telling us that the Congress must exercise control over the IRS. Raise your hand if you have had face-to-face contact with an IRS agent in the past five years. Come on folks, dont be shy. Almost 90% of IRS audits are correspondence audits. This means your only contact is a letter from the IRS. And the overall number of audits is way down due to resource constraints. IRS publishes statistics of income (SOI) data. The latest is for the 2020 tax year. In 2020, 164.4 million individual income tax returns were filed. Most people receive their income in ways that are reported by third parties to the IRS. This includes wages (130 million W-2 forms), interest and dividends (79 million 1099 forms), and capital gains (also 1099 reporting, including of tax basis for many transactions). The same is true for IRA distributions, pensions and annuities, and Social Security payments. If these items cover your income, IRS could probably prepare your return from reported data. Correspondence audits are most common because IRS can compare your reported income to the third-party reports. If they do not match, youll be asked to explain the difference. Higher income people have diverse sources of income. This may include income from self-employment, rental properties, and from partnerships and S corporations. These income sources are reported on IRS schedule C or E. About 12% of all filers report any income on Schedule E. Just under 20% report on Schedule C. But these Schedule C and E items are significant. And they have no third-party reporting. Common sense says the risk of underreporting is greater than third-party reported income. Hold on Hamill, some of you are saying. Partnership and S corporation income is reported on a Schedule K-1. You said it wasnt reported. Well, no, I said it wasnt reported by a third party. Partnerships and S corporations provide information for their returns and Schedule K-1 forms for their owners. Yes, sometimes this can mimic third-party reporting. But owners of these entities have much more control over the reporting than you have over your wages, interest, and dividends. And you have almost total control over your Schedule C business income reporting. Income may be reported on a Form 1099, but perhaps not all and you have much more wiggle room to claim deductions. More IRS enforcement will not be directed to checking your W-2 and 1099 one more time. It will not be used to send agents to your door to ask about your W-2 and 1099 forms. Computer-generated notices are here to stay. But there is a need to check self-reported income by higher-income people. Will Congress do this with its oversight? Will it replace the $114 billion? James R. Hamill is the director of tax practice at Reynolds, Hix & Co. in Albuquerque. He can be reached at jimhamill@rhcocpa.com.
People pass through the fare gate at Sinchon Station on Seoul Metro Line 2, Jan. 24. Yonhap By Lee Hyo-jin The government and the ruling party will review changing the eligible age for free subway ridership possibly to 70 from the current 65 in a bid to stem the snowballing deficit caused by the welfare policy offered to senior citizens. "We will discuss with the government the issue of raising the age of free ridership as well as how the central and local governments should share the burden of financial deficits," ruling People Power Party floor leader Rep. Joo Ho-young told reporters, Friday. The lawmaker's remark came days after Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon cried foul that the Ministry of Finance is refusing to share the burden of Seoul Metro's snowballing deficits incurred by the free ridership scheme for the elderly a policy adopted by the central government about 40 years ago. Under a senior welfare law enacted in 1984, all seniors aged 65 and above can use the subway free of charge in any city, regardless of their income. But following Seoul city's recent announcement that subway fares are set to rise by 300 or 400 won from as early as April, due to the worsening deficit caused in part by the welfare policy, the issue of raising the eligible age for free ridership has become a hotly debated topic among the public. According to Seoul Metro data, seniors aged 65 and over took about 200 million free rides in 2022. The estimated loss per free ride was 1,355 won. The subway operator viewed that raising the eligibility age to 70 could reduce losses by as much as 152.4 billion won. "It is time to begin public discussions on making revisions to the public transportation fare system," Oh wrote on Facebook, Friday. He urged the finance ministry to partially cover the losses. The mayor said the city has recently begun talks with seniors' associations on making adjustments to the welfare policy. Students showed up for their passion projects this week, while fissures around criminal justice system issues deepened as New Mexico lawmakers wrapped up their second full week of the 2023 legislative session, which kicked off Jan. 17. Heres a recap of some of the major stories this week: From the kids Lawmakers heard from two batches of passionate youngsters this week. Albuquerque Academy seniors Noor Ali, Sophia Liem and Mireya Macias researched, lobbied and helped draft House Bill 134, which would require New Mexico public schools to stock free tampons and other feminine hygiene products in their bathrooms. Meanwhile, fifth-grade students from Monte Vista Elementary School in Las Cruces served as expert witnesses for Senate Bill 188, which would enshrine the scent of green chile roasting in the fall as the states official aroma. Money in your pocket? A bill providing $750 rebates for individual taxpayers married couples filing jointly would get $1,500 checks was unanimously approved Thursday in a Senate committee and could be poised to advance quickly to Gov. Michelle Lujan Grishams desk. The measure Senate Bill 10, cosponsored by Sen. Benny Shendo, Jr. of Jemez Pueblo, Rep. Christine Chandler of Los Alamos, Senate Majority Leader Peter Wirth of Santa Fe and House Speaker Javier Martinez of Albuquerque, all Democrats would provide rebate checks to an estimated 875,000 tax filers around the state, regardless of income level. The number also includes married couples, meaning the total amount of adults receiving financial relief under the proposal could be even higher. Juvenile justice reform Lawmakers are considering a proposal to prohibit life sentences without the possibility of release or parole for serious youthful offenders. The law would apply to individuals serving long adult sentences for crimes committed when they were 14 to 17 years old. A similar proposal failed last year; this years measure, Senate Bill 64 would outline a tiered system of timing for parole hearings rather than setting them all at 15 years, last years proposal would have. Under this years bill, for first-degree murder, an individual would be eligible for parole 20 years into their sentence. For first-degree murder with more than one victim, it would be set at 25 years. The 15-year proposal would remain for others. Release wouldnt be guaranteed, just a parole hearing. In other justice system news Deep divisions plagued discussions about proposed overhauls of New Mexicos pretrial detention system this week both along party lines and within Democrats own ranks. House Joint Resolution 9, which would make more defendants eligible for pretrial detention, survived a divided committee hearing this week by the skin of its teeth. Democrats on the House Government, Elections and Indian Affairs Committee refused to recommend passage of the measure, but a bipartisan 5-2 majority agreed to forward it on without a recommendation. Meanwhile, Democratic lawmakers repeatedly rejected a batch of crime bills sponsored by Republican Rep. Bill Rehm of Albuquerque, including measures to expand the states three-strikes law, increase penalties for certain crimes and make it a felony to carry a firearm during a drug deal. Burn debate reignited A bill seeking to curtail the use of prescribed burns in New Mexicos gusty spring season is moving forward after being revived at the Roundhouse. The legislation Senate Bill 21, sponsored by Sen. Ron Griggs, R-Alamogordo previously stalled in a committee amid concern about how it would impact forest managers, farmers and others who use controlled burns as a tool. But it was brought back after changes were made to the bill that would still allow prescribed burns to be ignited in spring months but not on days when the National Weather Service has issued a red flag warning signaling elevated fire danger. Rural health care access A proposal to use some of New Mexicos revenue windfall to bolster health care services in rural parts of the state where health care services and hospitals are few and far between, moved through committee this week. The legislation could free up funding for projects like a proposed new inpatient behavioral health facility in Curry County. Senate Bill 7, which is a priority for Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham, is similar to a previous measure that stalled during last years session. Follow Journal Capitol Bureau reporters Dan Boyd and Dan McKay for daily coverage of the session. SANTA FE James R. Mountain of the Pueblo de San Ildefonso was appointed Friday to lead the Indian Affairs Department under Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham. The appointment came as state leaders celebrated American Indian Day at the Capitol with speeches and music. Mountain joins the Lujan Grisham administration as the governor endures a spate of Cabinet turnover. Three Cabinet secretaries announced their departure last week. Mountain, a former governor of the Pueblo de San Ildefonso, will lead the state department dedicating to working with New Mexicos pueblos, tribes and nations. His expertise in state and tribal relations will be a valuable asset in continuing our work to foster productive and respectful relationships and support Indigenous communities throughout New Mexico, Lujan Grisham, a Democrat, said in a written statement. The appointment is subject to confirmation by the state Senate, but Mountain can begin work right away. I commit to uphold the traditional values of the first inhabitants of New Mexico as we work together to improve the quality of life for everyone who calls this land home, he said. New Mexico lawmakers dedicated part of Friday to hearing from Native American leaders. Both chambers of the Legislature met in a joint session for speeches from Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren and Mark Mitchell, chairman of the All Pueblo Council of Governors. Among the bills before lawmakers this year is a proposal, House Bill 140, to establish a tribal education trust fund backed by $50 million in state funding which would distribute money each year to tribes, pueblos, and nations. Copyright 2023 Albuquerque Journal SANTA FE Lawmakers showed a bipartisan appetite Friday to tackle retail theft in New Mexico, which has emerged as a costly problem for businesses and a cottage industry of its own. A bill that would allow prosecutors to go after organized robbery crews by bringing felony charges against defendants that steal $2,500 or more worth of merchandise over a yearlong period passed its first assigned House committee on a 9-0 vote after several business owners pleaded with legislators for more help. We cant operate like this, said Jessica Carothers, owner of three beauty salons in Albuquerque that were each hit by robberies last year. People have just had it. The legislation, House Bill 234, has brought together an unlikely coalition that includes Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham, the New Mexico Chamber of Commerce and top Albuquerque city leaders. In addition to allowing multiple robberies to be combined under a single criminal charge, the bill would also make it a crime to brandish a weapon or make threats while fleeing from the scene of a theft. Rep. Marian Matthews, D-Albuquerque, the bills sponsor, said she worked with business groups and law enforcement agencies to help craft the legislation. She said the states current theft and shoplifting laws were not designed for organized gangs that sometimes conduct smash and grab robberies, and have been known to threaten store employees who try to intervene. Her bill would also emulate a federal law by allowing victims of retail theft to file civil lawsuits against perpetrators to try and recoup their losses. We want to protect customers and we want to protect employees, Matthews said in a recent interview. Retail theft means big bucks The Roundhouse debate comes after FBI agents last month found more than $100,000 worth of suspected stolen items including power tools, chainsaws and large-screen TVs while executing a search warrant at a storage unit as part of an investigation into an Albuquerque street gang. An FBI special agent in charge of the operation said the bust showed a link between drug trafficking and a recent spate of organized retail thefts. In addition, law enforcement officials arrested 16 individuals seven on felony charges and nine on misdemeanor charges during a multi-agency retail theft operation conducted this week around the Albuquerque metro area, said Bernalillo County Sheriffs Office Sgt. Donnie Hix. Three of the arrested individuals were in possession of fentanyl, Hix said, and the value of merchandise stolen from five different stores totaled $3,740. In addition, a recent statewide study found organized retail theft had led to the loss of more than 5,000 jobs in New Mexico, due to lost profits. However, there has been pushback against the effort to get tougher on retail crime. Representatives of the Law Offices of the Public Defender and the New Mexico Criminal Defense Lawyers Association both testified against the measure Friday, saying the state already has laws on the books dealing with robbery and theft. In addition, Daniel Williams of the American Civil Liberties Union of New Mexico said stiffer criminal sentences have not been proven to be an effective deterrent. We always oppose furthering and deepening the cycles of criminalization and incarceration, Williams told committee members. Cost of tougher penalties The push to crack down on retail theft could come at a cost, as an analysis of the bill projected the state would eventually have to pay an additional $740,000 per year to cover the increased prison incarceration costs under the proposal. But some lawmakers suggested the increased prison costs would be a small price to pay to address a growing problem. Weve all seen whats going on people are no longer afraid to be caught, said Rep. Alan Martinez, R-Bernalillo, who said some New Mexicans are wary of opening small businesses due to theft-related issues. People need to be afraid to commit crimes again, he added. Meanwhile, the legislation approved Friday is one of two bills dealing with organized retail crime that have been proposed at the Roundhouse. The other measure, House Bill 55, stalled Friday in the House Commerce and Economic Development Committee on a tie vote, after some legislators expressed concern that it did not sufficiently define some key terms. But Rep. Doreen Gallegos, D-Las Cruces, urged the sponsor of that bill, Rep. Bill Rehm, R-Albuquerque, a retired police officer, to work together with Matthews on her legislation. She also expressed frustration that the two lawmakers had not worked together on their respective bills. Trei Gilpin, an attorney for Alto US, a firm that helps several large New Mexico retailers with crime issues by working with law enforcement agencies, said many businesses have tried to take steps to make retail theft more difficult, including putting some merchandise under lock and key. But he said the states current shoplifting laws put the onus on law enforcement officers to prosecute misdemeanor cases often leading to cases being dismissed. As for retail theft crews, he said their actions are a far cry from petty shoplifting. Theres a reason its called organized retail rime, Gilpin told the Journal. Its being used to fund other illicit activity. Journal staff writer Rick Nathanson contributed to this report. The Albuquerque Police Department is making no apologies for official tweets that have been criticized by some, including city officials, as inappropriate. The departments Twitter account has been questioned over such biting responses as Calling out your b.s. is public service and You only complain and never offer solutions, KOAT-TV reported Thursday. Most of the tweets were in response to Doug Peterson, whose company is considered the largest landlord in the city. He recently took to Twitter to complain about crime and homelessness in Downtown. Police Chief Harold Medina said the department will push back on social media when it comes to people spreading misinformation and cyberbullying. He told the broadcaster that, although some of the tweets might not be in line with the citys policy, others bluntly point out differences. And Im OK with that, he said. Two city councilors who also are former police officers want the tweets toned down. The department thinks that harassing and intimidating people is community policing; theyre on the wrong path, Councilor Louie Sanchez said. Peterson, the landlord, says he wasnt trying to attack the police, just the policies of the mayor and police chief. I have supported APD and I still support APD very much, he said. One tweet that generated controversy came in July after the death of a 15-year-old boy caught in a SWAT standoff in a home that later caught fire. Some used Twitter to blame the police for the boys murder. In response, the department account tweeted: didnt know a fire could murder someone. In that case, Medina said he told department spokesperson Gilbert Gallegos to take a different tone. But Medina continues to stand behind tweets that respond to seeming inaccuracies. Mayor Tim Keller also echoed that sentiment. APD has its own social media policy, his office said in a statement. We support their efforts to push back on misinformation on social media. The embattled department is in the middle of revamping its use-of-force policies under approval of the U.S. Department of Justice. Officers will begin training on the new policies over the next quarter, according to authorities. The goal of city leaders is to see a decrease in officer-involved shootings. There were 18 such shootings in Albuquerque last year and 10 of them were fatal. That number caused Department of Justice attorneys and community stakeholders to raise concerns at a federal court hearing in December. WASHINGTON (AP) Fifteen Native American tribes will get a total of $580 million in federal money this year for water rights settlements, the Biden administration announced Thursday. The money will help carry out the agreements that define the tribes rights to water from rivers and other sources and pay for pipelines, pumping stations, and canals that deliver it to reservations. Water rights are crucial to ensuring the health, safety and empowerment of Tribal communities, U.S. Interior Secretary Deb Haaland said in a statement Thursday that acknowledged the decades many tribes have waited for the funding. Access to reliable, clean water and basic sanitation facilities on tribal lands remains a challenge across many Native American reservations. The U.S. Supreme Court ruled in 1908 that tribes have rights to as much water as they need to establish a permanent homeland, and those rights stretch back at least as long as any given reservation has existed. As a result, tribal water rights often are senior to others in the West, where competition over the dwindling resource is often fierce. But in many cases, details about those water rights were not specified and have had to be determined in the modern era. Many tribes opted for settlements because litigation over water can be expensive and drawn out, with negotiations involving states, cities, private water users, local water districts and others that can take years, if not decades. Of the funding announced Thursday, $460 million comes from the $2.5 billion set aside for Native American water rights settlements in the Biden administrations infrastructure bill. A federal fund created by Congress in 2009 to pay for water rights settlements will contribute the other $120 million. About $157 million will go to the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes in Montana. The federal government signed the tribes water rights compact in 2021 and promised over the following decade to fund the rebuilding of an irrigation project on the Flathead Indian Reservation constructed in the 1900s. Interior said Thursdays funding was part of the $1.9 billion trust created when Haaland signed the tribes compact. Tribal Council Chairman Tom McDonald said passage of the compact came after work that stretches back 40 years. The Navajo Nation, which spans parts of Arizona, Utah and New Mexico, will receive $137 million for an ongoing project to bring drinking water to members in northwestern New Mexico and the city of Gallup. The project, expected to be completed in 2027, is a network of pipelines and pumping stations that will deliver treated water from the San Juan River, which flows through the deserts of northwestern New Mexico. About $39 million is headed to the Navajo Nation for a separate settlement that will fund drinking water infrastructure in San Juan County, a part of the 27,000-square-mile (71,000-square kilometer) reservation that is in Utah. Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren, in a statement, called water the tribes most critical resource and said it was time to move forward with both infrastructure projects. The Gila River Indian Community in Arizona will get $79 million this year, which the tribes Gov. Stephen Lewis said would help its water conservation efforts amid stubborn drought in the West. The funding will help finish construction of an irrigation system on the reservation. Lewis said the funding was also a nod to the role that tribal governments play in being good stewards for our water and other natural resources. Elsewhere, the Blackfeet Nation in Montana will receive $45 million for a settlement that was signed into law by President Barack Obama in 2016 and called for improvements to irrigation systems and the development of a community water system. The Crow Nation, San Carlos Apache Nation, Southern Ute Indian Tribe, Ak-Chin Indian Community and Pueblos of San Ildefonso, Nambe, Pojoaque, and Tesuque are among other tribes sharing in the money announced Thursday. ___ The Associated Press receives support from the Walton Family Foundation for coverage of water and environmental policy. The AP is solely responsible for all content. For all of APs environmental coverage, visit https://apnews.com/hub/climate-and-environment An Albuquerque food delivery driver accused of killing a homeless man last October was arrested by the U.S. Marshals Service in California on Wednesday. Brandon Chatmon, 20, is charged with an open count of murder in the Oct. 27 death of 54-year-old Vincent Lopez. Its unclear where he is being held or if he has an attorney. Chatmon, who was working as an Uber Eats delivery driver at the time, was accused of shooting Lopez multiple times near a Wingstop restaurant at Zuni and San Mateo SE, according to a criminal complaint filed in Metropolitan Court. Surveillance footage from Wingstop showed the suspect entering the restaurant to pick up an order before the shooting, the complaint states. Police were able to identify Chatmon as a suspect based on the license plate number of the car before he fled the scene. A Marshals Task Force in California was able to locate Chatmon in the Long Beach area after detectives from the Albuquerque Police Department learned he had fled to that state, according to an APD news release. SANTA FE Activists are pushing for federal rules on curbing wasted natural gas to look more like New Mexicos recently passed rules, as they wait for data to reflect that they work. The Environmental Defense Fund, an environmental advocacy group, and Taxpayers for Common Sense, a budget watchdog organization, released a study last week showing that oil and gas companies that operate on U.S. public and tribal lands wasted over $500 million worth of gas in 2019, which was the most recent year with data available. New Mexico topped the list of states in wasted gas, but EDF Senior Director of Regulatory and Legislative Affairs Jon Goldstein also called it a leader in cutting back. What wed like to see (the Bureau of Land Management) do is build from the example that New Mexico has set in terms of putting an end, essentially, to routine venting and flaring, he said. Pipeline leaks are the most common cause of wasted natural gas, but some is also lost through flaring and venting, which are both methods for getting rid of natural gas that comes as a byproduct of oil drilling. Methane emissions, including those from wasted natural gas, drive at least a quarter of human-caused global warming, according to the EDF. Goldstein said it also puts company profits before taxpayers who would benefit from the sale of the natural gas. Rather than invest in infrastructure to get that associated gas to market, the company will just flare it. Theyll burn it off at the well site and treat it like a nuisance, Goldstein said. But he pointed to new rules in New Mexico that were passed after the data was collected as an example of what hed like to see the federal and state government do to change that. New Mexicos Energy, Minerals and Natural Resources Department, or EMNRD, is pushing oil and gas operators to capture 98% of their natural gas waste by the end of 2026. The rules went into effect in 2021 and require operators to report natural gas loss extensively, while prohibiting routine venting and flaring. It also allows the Oil Conservation Division to deny drilling permits if capture targets arent met. A spokesperson for EMNRD said via email that it is on track to meet its target by the end of 2026 and is already seeing a difference in its reporting. In the first 11 months of the new rules, there was a 36% reduction in gas lost. Q. These bills all talk about extending classroom time, but what about quality education or teachers having a (teachers assistant) to help out? Many classes have too many students and those at-risk students will still fall through the cracks. Sonia Marr A: A push to extend New Mexicos school year to bolster academic proficiency has already generated ample debate at the Roundhouse. But there are other approaches on the table, too. For instance, one bill, House Bill 127, would more than double the minimum annual salary for education assistants from $12,000 to $25,000 in an attempt to hire and retain more classroom aides. There were 446 teachers assistant vacancies as of last year or about one-third of all educator vacancies, according to a New Mexico State University report. Currently, New Mexico law sets class size limits, such as no more than 20 students per class in kindergarten, and stipulates that teachers with larger class sizes should get the help of a teachers assistant. But, for most elementary school grades, the class size limits are based on an average for an individual school, meaning some classes can have more students than allowed by state law if other classrooms at the same school have fewer than the maximum. After just over two weeks on the job, Jacquelyn Archuleta-Staehlin has stepped down from her position as a deputy secretary in the state Public Education Department one of the top positions in the agency. Her resignation which became effective Thursday, a week after the department announced her appointment came amid questions about whether she was a good fit for the position and amid other turnover in the department, including its head, Education Secretary Kurt Steinhaus. Archuleta-Staehlin did not respond to a Journal request for comment made to her PED email late Friday evening. In a statement she gave to the department, she said that after some consideration of my professional goals as well as my personal commitments, I do not believe that my continued employment as a deputy secretary is a good fit for either the department or myself. Before joining the PED, Archuleta-Staehlin was a partner at Cuddy & McCarthy LLP, a law firm founded in Santa Fe that says it currently represents the vast majority of New Mexicos 89 school districts. She focused, according to the department, on education and disability law. Laurel Nesbitt, an attorney with Disability Rights New Mexico, said Archuleta-Staehlin was always representing the district, not the family, not the child a point that made some question her appointment as a deputy secretary who would oversee the states action plan on the Yazzie-Martinez consolidated lawsuit. In 2018, that lawsuit yielded a decision finding that the state had violated the rights of four student groups including students with disabilities by not providing them a sufficient education system. That was very unexpected news, that she was going to be taking the position in the first place, and was hard to reconcile with our experience with her in the past as such a long-term advocate for districts, Nesbitt said. It was surprising to see that she stepped down so early. But it did seem appropriate. Amanda Owens, a teacher and a mother of a student with disabilities whos dealt with Archuleta-Staehlin, was early to question her appointment to the position. In an email to the Journal sent the day of Archuleta-Staehlins appointment, Owens said she has worked to circumvent the (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act) and that her tactics are notably antagonistic and retaliatory towards the families of students with disabilities. I think that she tries to intimidate families, Owens later said in an interview. Archuleta-Staehlins departure comes less than a week after the retirement of Steinhaus the third public education secretary in four years. The PED, department spokeswoman Kelly Pearce wrote in an email statement, is in the midst of a national search for new, qualified leadership. In the meantime, Childrens Cabinet Director Mariana Padilla is serving in Steinhauss stead. While PED is in the midst of leadership changes, all the employees in the department are committed to delivering high quality work for the children of New Mexico regardless of who sits in leadership positions, Pearce said. A former pediatric surgeon at an Albuquerque hospital was sentenced by a federal judge this week to 17 years in prison after pleading guilty to possession and distribution of sexually explicit photos of children. Guy Rosenschein, 68, admitted that he possessed more than 19,000 images and 2,000 videos of child pornography on thumb drives and laptop computers found in searches at his home, according to a plea agreement filed in U.S. District Court of New Mexico. Rosenschein also admitted sharing images through his email account showing minors engaged in sexually explicit acts, according to the plea agreement. He pleaded guilty in October to seven counts of distribution, and one count of possession, of sexually graphic images of children, it said. U.S. District Judge Judith Herrera handed down the sentence Tuesday. Phone and email messages left for Rosenscheins attorney were not immediately returned. A pediatric urologist and surgeon, Rosenschein previously worked in New York, Arkansas and Missouri, according to a statement issued by the office of Alexander Uballez, U.S. Attorney for the District of New Mexico. Law enforcement learned of additional allegations in other states that Rosenschein had befriended young male patients before sexually abusing the young boys, the statement said. Charges are pending in Arkansas in connection with two alleged victims, it said. In New Mexico, dozens of families have filed at least 29 lawsuits in 2nd Judicial District Court against Rosenschein and Presbyterian Healthcare Services, his employer from 2012 until November 2016. The suits allege a variety of improper behavior by Rosenschein with young patients in his care. Some of the suits also allege botched medical treatments. Presbyterian is committed to delivering safe, quality care to our patients every day, Presbyterian Healthcare Services spokeswoman Melanie Mozes said Friday. We worked with law enforcement throughout their investigation regarding this individual and will reserve comment on legal proceedings for the appropriate venue. Rosenschein first came to the attention of law enforcement in 2016 after tips were submitted to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children that an Albuquerque user had posted sexual images of children, according to the statement from Uballezs office. On Nov. 7, 2016, Bernalillo County Sheriffs deputies searched Rosenscheins home and found digital devices containing child pornography, the statement said. Detectives later learned of a hidden room behind a false wall under the stairs in Rosenscheins home, the statement said. FBI agents obtained a second search warrant and found two safes in the hidden room containing more material. In all, law enforcement found some 19,000 images and 2,092 videos containing child sexual abuse material, the statement said. The main opposition Democratic Party of Korea (DPK) staged a large-scale rally in central Seoul, Saturday, to protest the prosecution's widening corruption investigation into its embattled leader. Tens of thousands of party members joined the rally led by DPK leader Lee Jae-myung, who is currently under investigation over corruption allegations surrounding a massive development project pushed for in Seongnam, south of Seoul, when he was the city's mayor. During the event, Lee accused prosecutors of hampering democracy by targeting him, President Yoon Suk Yeol's former rival in the last presidential race. "Prosecutors are taking major posts in the government, and they are threatening people with arrest warrants, instead of soldiers' guns and swords," Lee said during his closing remarks. "Politics is giving its place to violent ruling." He also denounced the government for adding burdens on people with rising inflation and widening economic disparity. "The livelihoods of people are in crisis. Energy prices are soaring, while electricity bills, public transportation fares and interest rates are also rising," he said. "People are suffering, but banks and refiners hit jackpots and enjoy massive profits." The event is the DPK's first outdoor rally since late 2016, when it joined civic groups to oust then President Park Geun-hye involved in a corruption scandal. The ruling People Power Party (PPP) criticized the main opposition party, which holds 167 seats in the 300-member National Assembly, for abandoning its role to protect its corruption-ridden leader. "The DPK is giving its all to protect its leader Lee Jae-myung, hindering state affairs," PPP spokesperson Yang Geum-hee said in a commentary. "The DPK lost its rationality and conscience. It is giving up on people to protect its leader." (Yonhap) ABC Music The 'That Don't Impress Me Much' hitmaker talks about the creative process of her sixth studio album titled 'Queen of Me' after releasing the new record. Feb 4, 2023 AceShowbiz - Shania Twain felt freed by her new album. Known around the world for 1990s hits such as "Man! I Feel Like a Woman!" and "That Don't Impress Me Much", the 57-year-old country star released her sixth studio album "Queen of Me" on Friday, February 3 and explained that she was finally able to make the kind of music she would listen to herself. "The playfulness and the pop on the album felt more like the stomp of my childhood. It's been liberating making the music I want to listen to and dance to without really thinking about genre because there is a bit of everything in there," she said. The "You're Still the One" songstress recently revealed she had been airlifted to hospital as she suffered from a severe case of COVID-19 and was so "frustrated" at being kept away from so many people for so long that she was "so ready" to finally record the album after having written most of it during the pandemic. She told The Daily Star newspaper's Wired column, "It was quite serious; I was in a hospital so I was at this point of frustration and wasn't able to get in a room with more than one of two people. I was so ready to record because I had written so much of the album during COVID." Meanwhile, the Canadian-born star worked with UK songwriters on "Queen of Me" and went on to explain that she has always felt "less pressure" there than in her home country and believes that audiences would have been more "open-minded" to fellow country megastar Taylor Swift when she first came on the scene in the late 2000s. She added, "I've never done that before. I didn't know how I'd be but I was open to it because I'd been so isolated from working in any kind of group setting. So now, there are four or five of us in a room at the same time and it was a little bit like brain shock." "We loved it and we were finishing two or three songs in each session. I always found the pressure off in the UK, for sure, not having to worry about what my genre was. My role isn't to create genre-specific songs, I just create the best record I can make. They would have been more open-minded at least for Taylor. I think she is making the music she wants to make." You can share this post! Instagram Celebrity The Kylie Cosmetics mogul is roasted online after she takes to Instagram to share some pictures of herself rocking a pair of eye-catching shoes during her vacation in Turks and Caicos. Feb 4, 2023 AceShowbiz - Kylie Jenner has made headlines once again for her choice of style. The cosmetics mogul was roasted online after she shared several photos of herself rocking a pair of eye-catching shoes during her vacation in Turks and Caicos. On Friday, February 3, "The Kardashians" star treated fans to a slew of Instagram pictures which saw her donning Jacquemus from head-to-toe. Her sexy look included a strappy sheer crop top, a low-rise green paisley miniskirt with a peekaboo thong, an enormous fluffy neon bag and matching feather shoes. Fans unsurprisingly were focused on the furry-soled footwear as they seemed to be baffled. "wtf are the shoes!?" one fan asked. Another sarcastically commented, "Kylie, you've outdone yourself. You're mopping the floors as you walk around the house. #worksmartnothard." One person, meanwhile, insinuated that the shoes reminded them of "Sesame Street" character Big Bird which also has yellow feather. "When did big bird start selling high heels?" the user joked. However, some others thought Kylie killed the look. "Now every girl is going to get the feather shoes," one fan wrote. One other claimed that Kylie's ex Travis Scott (II) might be "screaming, crying, and throwing up" after looking how gorgeous the reality TV star is in the snaps. Prior to this, Kylie faced backlash for throwing an "Astroworld"-themed birthday party for her kids. In some pictures from Stormi and Aire's joint birthday bash that Kylie shared on Instagram Story, there could be seen some inflatable heads that modeled Travis' "Astroworld" album cover. The reality star previously used a similar blow-up tunnel for Stormi. The decoration quickly earned the "Keeping Up with the Kardashians" alum criticism considering the fact that the "Astroworld" concert claimed the lives of many concertgoers in November 2021. "Isn't this tasteless after the Astroworld tragedy where children died," one Reddit user argued. "CHILDREN died at Astroworld - only fitting that they would make it into another birthday party theme... So tone deaf," another fumed. Meanwhile, one Twitter user penned, "kylie using astroworld branding for her children's birthday party is a bit scary to me." You can share this post! https://www.beyonce.com/ Music Ahead of her highly-anticipated first tour in seven years, the 'Single Ladies' hitmaker unleashes an updated version of a fan-favorite from her 'Renaissance' album. Feb 4, 2023 AceShowbiz - Beyonce Knowles knows how to keep her fans hyped up ahead of her upcoming world tour. After announcing her "Renaissance World Tour" dates, the R&B diva is now treating fans to an updated version of one of the tracks off her "Renaissance" album. On Friday, February 3, the 41-year-old debuted a sexy remix of "Cuff It". The updated version mixes the fan-favorite song with a Twista classic. On the remix, Bey sings the song over the instrumental of the rapper's 2009 hit "Wetter". Bey also updates the song with a new opening verse. She sings at the beginning of the remix version, "Baby make it rain/ Don't let go till it storms again/ I pray this will never end." Throughout the song, fans can hear new ad-libs and runs over the seductive, guitar-driven beat. On the bridge, she sings, "I can see the love in your eyes/ Boy I know you wanna squeeze it, don't lie/ Double tap when I walk by, f**k a reply." She also makes several NSFW ocean-inspired metaphors. Giving the remix a stamp of approval, Twista has taken to Twitter to help promote the song. "Happy Friday," he simply tweeted along with a link to the "Cuff It" remix. "Cuss It (Wetter Remix)" is currently only available for purchase through Beyonce's official website. The remix version arrives just two days after Beyonce announced her "Renaissance World Tour" dates, which will kick off on May 10 in Stockholm, Sweden and run through September, with stops in various European countries and North America. She later extended the tour with seven additional shows due to high demand. But even with these added dates, Live Nation said that "it is still expected that the majority of interested fans will not be able to get tickets because demand drastically exceeds supply." You can share this post! Cover Images/Dutch Press Photo Celebrity The 'My Best Friend's Wedding' star accuses the Duke of Sussex of lying when the royal claimed on his explosive memoir 'Spare' that he lost his virginity behind a 'busy pub' to an older woman. Feb 4, 2023 AceShowbiz - Rupert Everett didn't think Prince Harry's virginity story is true. The "My Best Friend's Wedding" star accused the Duke of Sussex of lying when the royal claimed on his memoir "Spare" that he lost his virginity behind a "busy pub" to an older woman. Rupert weighed in on Harry's confession in an interview with The Telegraph which was published on Thursday, February 2. Claiming that he knew the truth, Rupert said, "By the way, I know who the woman he lost his virginity to is. And it wasn't behind a pub." The 63-year-old actor went on to spill that it didn't even happen in England. "And it wasn't in this country," he shared, adding, "I'm just putting it out there that I know." A source close to the royal, however, insinuated that Rupert's claim was wrong. "Amazing that [Rupert] would know such a personal detail better than Prince Harry himself," said the insider to the British newspaper. In his bombshell book "Spare", Harry revealed that his first time having sex was a "quick" romp. "She liked horses, quite a lot, and treated me not unlike a young stallion," the husband of Meghan Markle detailed, though he didn't disclose the identity of the woman. "Quick ride, after which she'd smacked my rump and sent me to grace." "Among the many things about it that were wrong: It happened in a grassy field behind a busy pub. Obviously, someone had seen us," so the father of two went on to share. Meanwhile, rumor had it that the said woman was actress Elizabeth Hurley, who is 19 years older than Harry. The actress, however, vehemently denied the speculation in December 2022. In an interview with Saturday Times magazine, the 57-year-old "Austin Powers" alum shut down the claim that she's the unidentified "beautiful older woman in the countryside" that Harry mentioned in his book. "Not me. Not guilty. Ha!" Elizabeth told the outlet. "No. Not me. Absolutely not." You can share this post! Instagram Celebrity The late Hollywood legend wrote the three-page letter when he wanted to call it quits with French Broadway dancer Solange Podell in the late 1940s and it is now up for auction. Feb 4, 2023 AceShowbiz - Marlon Brando's breakup letter is up for auction. The late Hollywood legend, who died in 2004 at the age of 80, dated French Broadway dancer Solange Podell in the late 1940s but decided to write her a three-page letter when he wanted to call it quits and now the original handwritten note and the bidding has already surpassed $3,000 at RR Auction. A description for the item reads, "ALS in pencil, signed 'Marlon,' three pages on two adjoining sheets, 5 x 8, no date (late 1940s). Handwritten letter to French actress Solange Podell, with whom he had shared a romantic relationship. Brando ostensibly wrote this letter not long after their separation." In the letter, "The Last Tango in Paris" star, who was married to Anna Kashfi in the late 1950s but went on to a short-lived union with Movita Castaneda in the early 1960s before marrying Tarita Teriipaia in 1962 and splitting from her in 1972, apologizes that he didn't "try harder" to be "less self-indulgent" and admitted he did not want to see her whenever he was "in the mood" before stating his intentions to mature as a person. With all spelling errors left intact, he wrote, "In order that you won't think me a complete boor, I am writing you this letter to explain that because of an erratic, flighty, fly-by-night, temperament I wish not to humiliate and degrade your sentiments by seeing you only at my mood's conveinence. Please accept this letter with an open heart as it is written with fourthright sincerity. I'm sorry I could not have tried harder to be less self indulgent and therewith, a little more compatable. My intuitions were flawlessly scroupulous, but my emotions, unfortunately, unstable. I will remember you with fondness, regard, and appreciation. When we meet in France (perhaps in October) I trust my behavior will be a trifle more adult."(sic) You can share this post! Pexels/Vlad Vasnetsov Movie While many of them have received accolades for their critically-acclaimed performances, these actors have also earned bad reputations for their alleged diva behavior or narcissism. Feb 5, 2023 AceShowbiz - The key to success is often a combination of attitude and talent. Such traits are what celebrities, whom many consider as role models, have usually demonstrated. However, not everyone is able to maintain perfect scores on their reports. Despite being known for their critically-acclaimed performances, some actors have earned bad reputations for their alleged diva behavior or narcissism among other things. While some of them are still able to continue working in the industry, a few others barely survive the bad press. Below are ten actors who have been branded difficult to work with. 1. Christian Bale Cover Images/MUNAWAR HOSAIN Christian Bale is undoubtedly one of actors with glowing resume. He has received various accolades, including an Academy Award and two Golden Globe Awards, the epitome of his hard work. However, his critically-acclaimed performances can only be rivaled by his hot temper. He had an on-set meltdown during the filming of "Terminator Salvation", reportedly berating and dropping F-bomb on the director of photography for walking through his line of vision during an important acting sequence. His publicist Harrison Cheung has explained that the actor suffers from a post-traumatic stress disorder. 2. Katherine Heigl Cover Images/Kristin Callahan Katherine Heigl was once Hollywood's "It girl", landing lead roles in romantic comedies and even winning an Emmy Award for her role on "Grey's Anatomy" in 2007. However, her reputation was forever ruined following her comments on "Knocked Up" and her dispute with "Grey's" producers. She called the movie "sexist" and claimed that she "had a hard time" on the set. She also criticized the writing of her "Grey's" character, calling it weak. She was eventually let go from the series, with her claiming that she wanted to devote more time for her family. Her hiatus went on for a long time as she has barely gotten cast in leading lady roles ever since. 3. Edward Norton Cover Images/Sean Thornton Edward Norton takes his job very seriously, so much that it makes those around him uncomfortable. Known for wanting creative control over his projects, he created tension with director Louis Leterrier on "The Incredible Hulk" set. He rewrote the script every day of filming, which insulted screenwriter Zak Penn. He did not participate in the film's promotion, leading Marvel to recast the role of Hulk though the film received favorable reviews. Director Tony Kaye, who worked with him on "American History X", branded him a "narcissistic dilettante." 4. Bruce Willis Cover Images/ROGER WONG Bruce Willis' clash with Kevin Smith wasn't the only evidence of his difficult nature. For years, he has been known for his hard as nails personality. After working with him on "Cop Out", Smith said the actor was "soul crushing." He is notoriously poor interview subject as well, while Sylvester Stallone called him "greedy and lazy." The "Die Hard" star was dropped from the third "The Expendables" movie for demanding a higher fee, prompting Sly to air out his feeling working with Willis as saying, "GREEDY AND LAZY A SURE FORMULA FOR CAREER FAILURE." 5. Jennifer Lopez Instagram Jennifer Lopez has achieved success both as a music and movie star. That's probably what drove her to become a diva on set. The Bronx star is said to be very vocal about her opinions, want to prove people wrong and won't admit when she's wrong. The "Marry Me" star has a pretty lengthy list of backstage demands for each project she works on including some elaborate requests like keeping a helicopter on standby and blocking off entire hotel floors. She allegedly also doesn't mingle with crew and requires them to communicate with her through her assistants. 6. Steven Seagal Cover Images/INFphoto.com Steven Seagal's demure demeanor on screen is nothing compared to what he's like in real life. He once kicked his "Executive Decision" co-star John Leguizamo in the chest for downplaying his demand for total respect and loyalty. There have been various reports of his on-set cruelties and abuses toward his co-stars. He has also been sued multiple times for various accusations such as sexual harassment and breach of contract. 7. Sharon Stone Cover Images/BauerGriffin Sharon Stone is perhaps best known for her role in erotic thriller "Basic Instinct", but those who have worked with her may remember her for her difficult nature and unprofessionalism. "Golden Boy" director Pupi Avati slammed the actress for making demands bordering on ridiculous. The filmmaker claimed she would leave set unannounced and have her manager call them with more demands. After getting a hold of her, she demanded certain people leave the set before she would return. 8. Lea Michele Cover Images/ROGER WONG Lea Michele isn't as lovable as her "Glee" character is. While Ryan Murphy is seemingly fond of her, having cast her on the FOX musical drama series and "Scream Queens", she irritated her co-star Naya Rivera, who called her a diva and a "nightmare to work with." In 2020, more actors came forward with their similar experiences while working with Michele, accusing her of being hostile and rude to others on set. She has apologized for the way she treated her co-stars, but continued to lay low until she landed a role in musical revival "Funny Girl" in 2022. 9. Jennifer Aniston Cover Images/Sara De Boer Jennifer Aniston may be known to be warm and easy-going to her best friends, but she isn't that sociable on set. She has been known for years as a diva who isn't approachable and likes to be alone. The "Friends" alum reportedly had her trailer a mile away from the set and would got eat lunch there alone every day. "Her behavior is a clear indicator to everyone that she's not approachable," a so-called insider once spilled. "And it's just unnecessary. There's no reason why she has to act any better than anyone else on that movie set." 10. Johnny Depp Cover Images Another actor whose bad reputation precedes his acting skills is Johnny Depp. His diva behavior was evident during the filming of "Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales", during which he was constantly late and needed his lines fed to him through earpieces. His former agent Tracy Jacobs testified during the defamation trial that she flew to Australia twice in an attempt to intervene. The 59-year-old was also accused of assault by a location manager of 2018's crime thriller "City of Lies". You can share this post! Virtual influencers are quickly emerging and establishing themselves across the world. India is fast emerging as the land of influencers who are contributing to the creative strength and helping businesses grow, as well as influencing the youth also pick up this creative profession. One such influencer from Kolkata is Irah (aka Riya) Deb Roy, whos family history goes back more than 350 years. She is a descendant of Raja Rameshwar Roy, who was given the title of king in 1673. Raja Nrishingha Deb Mahashay is her great-great grandfather who, in December 1799, laid the foundation stone of Hangseshwari Temple in Bansberia (Hooghly), which is a heritage site of India. Another ancestor, Rani Shankari, completed the temple work and under whose name there is a lane renamed as Rani Shankari Lane in Kalighat, Kolkata. Deb Roy originally belongs to the Rajbari (palace) placed opposite the Hangseshwari Temple ne Ananta Basudeb Temple. Her ancestral name Irah is also taken from their deitys body part and she is probably the last princess of Kolkata. In this interaction with Adgully, Irah Deb Roy speaks about her interesting journey as an influencer, which goes back 11-12 years when this field was at its infancy in India. Given her ancestral background, Deb Roy is a well-known promoter of sustainable clothing, especially sarees, and has been encouraging the younger generation to support Indian clothing. How did you start your journey of being a fashion and lifestyle influencer and a digital content creator? Its been around 11-12 years that I have been in this field and it was not even a trending thing back then. Instagram was extremely new. I used to create content around sustainable clothing, and I was in college back then. And we did have much amount of money to spend on clothing, and this is how it all started. It started off with places to visit in Kolkata, we made a few videos and our pictures went viral, and this is how it started. Could you tell us about your journey with SVF so far? I joined SVF around five years ago in 2017. I am currently Creative Head of the Digital and Music side of things, the journey has been great so far. I have worked on around 55-56 films, and planned promotional campaigns around films and everything. Im heading the vertical right now, which is SVF music, and we have our new channels where we create slice of life content. Before joining SVF, I was with ZEE, where I was a Associate Creator Digital Content. What kind of challenges have you faced in your journey as an influencer? The first thing we faced is the reach whether people are consuming your content or not. Luckily my area was cafes or places to visit, little bit of clothing, traditional sarees and everything. If you look at my profile, saree looks easy to wear and is comfortable just like our daily clothing. Challenges were that sarees are not worn on a daily basis by the younger generation. They would be worn only on special occasions such as a wedding or on Saraswati Pujo. For me, saree is a regular wear, as long as you are comfortable in it and happy wearing it. So, now people have started taking this up and there are a few saree influencers. But it has been good so far. Your posts mainly focus on Indian and ethnic attire. Is there any particular reason for that? I dont post about sarees only, but post about whatever I like. If Im wearing this one, Im 90% sure that Im happy to wear it and comfortable wearing it. I like promoting Indian brands or local brands to make sure that people who live in the metropolitan cities or people outside Kolkata or West Bengal can take the whole lot of sarees that people in the villages produce, particular kind of sarees which are produced in West Bengal. Thus, whoever follows me are inclined towards the trend and they buy sustainable clothing that are produced here. Im not very choosy about what I wear, I wear what Im comfortable in. You have been featured in Vogue Italias photoshoot three times. How has your experience been of working with Vogue? Im not a model, Im somebody any other 26-27 year old can relate to. I remembered the first shoot that was featured in Vogue, which was held at my friends place, who is a designer, and the entire attire was Indian, so that was also about promoting sustainable clothing. We never thought that it will get selected in Italia. The next shoot that was featured was done in 2021, where we went to shoot for another sustainable clothing brand. It was a hectic shoot that was shot around 4.30 am in the morning. The third shoot was for another sustainable clothing saree brand, Gulmohor, which was shot at Beleghata inside a 200-year old vintage house. We were able to reach out to a maximum number of people through these shoots. You also focus on food vlogging and promoting heritage properties, along with fashion and lifestyle. How has the experience been? I belong to a heritage household, which is Debray Rajbari at Hoogly, where there is a temple as well. I have this great affinity towards anything vintage, because though I was born in Kolkata, there has always been a strong connect with my ancestral land. Recently I visited Barikuthi; Im planning to visit a few Rajbaris that have turned into hotels. I have visited 200+ restaurants and cafes in Kolkata and have reviewed all of them. The cafe business is working brilliantly here in Kolkata, and I still have a number of cafes listed on my wishlist. Narayana Health, Indias leading healthcare provider, today, unveiled a new campaign titled celebrating the SuperPower of survivors on World Cancer Day. Narrated from cancer survivors point of view, the campaign highlights the determination required to fight back this disease with the superpowers one possess. According to industry estimates, every year, nearly 14 million people in India contract this disease, with lung and breast cancer being most common in adults and leukaemia in children. This campaign aims to celebrate the will of cancer survivors while inculcating the importance of regular check-ups and self-care to arrest it right in the initial stages. Speaking about the campaign Dr. Ashish Bajaj, Chief Marketing Officer, Narayana Health, said, Narayana Health has been assisting people in their fight against cancer for over two decades now. Our team of doctors across the NH Network have assisted many patients to sail through these tough times. As an organisation, we have been an integral part of highs and lows of many survivors and this campaign is a tribute to their grit and determination to fight back strong and set an example for the society. The campaign by Narayana Health talks about two stories, one of a young girl who is passionate about baking and the other of an elderly man who feels the air of life through painting. It taps a personal touch of those fighting back the disease to embellish their passion. It also, showcases the beauty one has for certain things we look up to in our lives and how this passion drives us to fight for anything in the world and stand tall to create a life we love, even if it comes to battling cancer. According to 2020 WHO data, India ranked third after China and US for cancer burden of new yearly cases, which clearly indicates the need to raise awareness and we at Narayana Health are committed to this cause. This campaign is a small effort to raise awareness for fighting this disease and salute those who inspire us every day with their own superpowers. added Ashish Bajaj Equipped with 14 centres, we provide 50000 chemotherapy per/year, 5000 surgery P/Y,6000 Radiation therapy P/Y and 400 BMT per year. The campaign went live on 3rd Feb across various platforms. After the international break, SA20 was back in action with the Durban Super Giants coming out on a thunderous note. Skipper Quinton de Kock led from the front and dismantled the MI Cape Town bowling attack with his 63 runs off 41 balls knock. Post de Kocks dismissal, it was South African international, Matthew Breetze (48 off 39 balls) and Keemo Pauls (31 off 18 balls) 48-run partnership of just 29 balls which aided the Super Giants to get over the finish line in the last over of the innings. MI Cape Towns Kagiso Rabada did put up a fight after taking three quick wickets, but it was not enough to dominate the opposition. Speaking on Match Centre Live, Viacom18 Expert Abhinav Mukund weighed in on de Kocks explosive performance. The Quinton de Kock we all know and love. Thats exactly what he did because once he starts going, theres no bowler in the world that can stop him. He showed that today. Clearly, he takes a liking to the Durban ground because when one side is short, where do you bowl to him? He cuts fiercely, he plays the pull shotthats his favourite shotand the pull shot is something that he loves doing, so you can't bowl on both sides of the pitch on this particular surface, and their side boundaries are this short. Its a dream for someone like Quinton De Kock. He showed his class throughout this innings. MI Cape Towns new entrant and Australian international, Tim David wasted no time in making his presence known as he struck a noteworthy knock (33 off 26 balls) and hit 3 sixes with partner Rassie van der Dussen (43 off 32 balls) at the crease. The duo helped in building the innings for Cape Town and put a respectable total of 165 on the board for the Super Giants to chase. Mukund also expressed his delight at Tim Davids innings against DSG. He must be a crowd favourite already because of the number of sixes he hits, and maybe the only criticism the crowd will have is that he hits them out of the ground. This guy is phenomenal. He said it was his first time playing in South Africa, and he didn't look back because he came in at a crucial time and scored those runs. Something that I would have liked for him to do on the back end. But Tim David has announced himself here and is only going to get better. Joburg Super Kings will lock horns with Paarl Royals at 5:00 pm and Sunrisers Eastern Cape will play Durbans Super Giants tonight at 9:00 pm, live on JioCinema, Sports18 1, Sports18 Khel and Colors Tamil. ZEE5, Indias largest home-grown video streaming platform announced the world digital premiere of Salaam Venky. After the success of Uunchai and Chhatriwali, the platform brings to the viewers another slice of life drama directed by the national award-winning director Revathi. Produced by Suuraj Sinnghs [Blive Productions], Shraddha Agrawals [RTake Studios] and Vishal Kukreja, Salaam Venky revolves around the story of a mother who decides to fight challenging situations and does everything in her capacity for her son. The movie will stream on ZEE5 from 10th February 2023 in Hindi. Punctuated with power-packed performances of Kajol and Vishal Jethwa, the movie is based on a true life incident of a young boy who is diagnosed with Duchenne muscular dystrophy. The movie also stars Aahana Kumra, Rahul Bose, Rajeev Khandelwal, Prakash Raj, Anant Mahadevan, Priyamani in pivotal roles along with a cameo by Aamir Khan. Salaam Venky follows a chess player - Venkys (Vishal) struggle with a rare disorder and a legal battle for euthanasia to donate his organs before progressive muscular degeneration renders them unusable. His mother Sujatha (Kajol), a doctor (Rajeev Khandelwal), a lawyer (Rahul Bose) and a journalist (Aahana Kumra) rally around him for his right to die with dignity. With an IMDB rating of 7.4, Mithuns music adds soul to the film and makes it a feast for cinema connoisseurs. And now, with its World Digital Premiere on ZEE5, the film will be available to viewers across 190+ countries in Hindi. Manish Kalra, Chief Business Officer, ZEE5 India said, At ZEE5, we believe in showcasing stories comprising of exceptional talent, high-quality production, vivid formats, and different genres. Adding to our repertoire of films, we are happy to platform Salaam Venky. After presenting several light-hearted dramas, investigative thrillers and mysteries in past, Salaam Venky will add some freshness to the content library. The story has a wonderful narrative which emphasizes on the trials, tribulations, and extra-ordinary heroism of every mother in this world. We are positive that movie will get a great response from the audience. Kajol said, Shooting for Salaam Venky was an emotional experience for me. Being a mother of two, I could resonate with Sujata's character on a personal level. When your child or closed one is in pain, he or she doesn't suffer alone it's you who finds it difficult to cope with those heartbreaking moments of life. It's tough to be "brave" or "strong" no matter how much you try holding your emotions together. At such times, one needs to keep faith and believe in miracles. After Salaam Venky, all I have learnt is that Life is uncertain so don't spend your time worrying about the future or living in the past. Live your life to the fullest. I feel proud for being recognised for such a meaningful film and I am glad my fans will get to watch it once again on ZEE5. Producer Suuraj Sinngh said, Salaam Venky will leave a mark in everyones heart. The outstanding quality of performances and Kajols magnificently expressive eyes weave magic in the film. Vishal is unwaveringly solid as the doting son and Revathis unparalleled direction captures the righteousness, warmth, and intensity of a mothers love. Producer Shraddha Agrawal said, I believe the power of cinema is such that it enables us to deliver impactful stories that entertain and educate audiences. Based on the novel, The Last Hurrah, Salaam Venky transports you to a world where theres love, family, life, and death. With stellar actors and pinch of comedy, Kajols portrayal of Sujata takes all the spotlight. I am very glad the film;s second innings is about to begin. Salaam Venky is a heart-warming true story about how a mother like most mothers puts all her effort to help her son live a fulfilling life even if it is short. Simple everyday humour and realistic sentiment is the USP of Salaam Venky. Kajol as a mother has given a performance that has been applauded by everyone who has seen the film. After receiving immense admiration in theatres, we are eager for the audiences to watch it once again on ZEE5, Director Revathi concluded. Get ready to watch Salaam Venky from 10th February 2022 exclusively streaming only on ZEE5! Family members of the victims of the Itaewon tragedy march on a street in central Seoul, Feb. 4, to commemorate the 100th day of the accident. Newsis Bereaved families of the victims of the Itaewon crowd stampede clashed with police in central Seoul Saturday as they took to the streets one day before the 100th day of the tragedy and installed a memorial altar in a public square without approval from the authorities. About 1,000 people, including about 150 family members, began to march from a memorial altar at Noksapyeong Station, near the site of the Oct. 29 accident that killed 159 people during Halloween festivities, at around 11 a.m., to Sejongno Street, where they were to hold a memorial rally for the victims. They had initially planned to hold the event at nearby Gwanghwamun Square and set up the memorial altar there. But the city government rejected the requests, and the police agency dispatched about 3,000 personnel to the vicinity. Families of the Itaewon tragedy victims march on a street in central Seoul, Feb. 4, one day before the 100th day of the accident. Newsis Sands and a friend smoke together in Seoul. Courtesy of "Undiplomatic Memories" by William Franklin Sands By Robert Neff Cover of "William Franklin Sands in Late Choson Korea" by Wayne Patterson (Lexington Books, 2021) In 1896, at the tender age of 22, William Franklin Sands was appointed second secretary at the American Legation in Tokyo. The baby-faced Sands was a privileged youth; his father was an admiral who knew everyone including the president and was not above using his influence to open doors for his son. But even the privileged sometimes became victims of the vortex of politics in Washington D.C., and with a new president came changes Sands was replaced a little over a year after his arrival. Undaunted, he returned to the United States in August 1897. Once again, through his father's influence, as well as Senator Henry Cabot Lodge's assistance, he was able to secure another diplomatic post. One of his mentors advised him to accept a position in Korea: "Korea is the place. Nobody wants it; it is too insignificant but it is there you will see diplomacy in the raw; diplomacy without gloves, perfume or phrases. Get out to Korea and watch. We need somebody to know what it is all about, and we ought not to take all our information from the chief conspirators." Sands accepted the position as secretary of the American Legation in Seoul he claimed he could have had the position of minister had he "more presence of mind and less scruple" and arrived in Korea on Jan. 10, 1898. The American consul general building in 1912 Courtesy of Diane Nars Collection Much of what we knew about Sands comes from his own book, "Undiplomatic Memories," or from Horace Allen's letters and documents. Allen was the American minister to Korea and, while he may have been supportive of Sands in the beginning, he was one of Sands' greatest critics. Now we have another source a more balanced and trustworthy examination of Sands and his tenure in the American Legation as well as the Korean court Wayne Patterson's book, "William Franklin Sands in Late Choson Korea." Patterson's writing style is informative and very reader-friendly and compliments Sands' own style of writing. I would definitely recommend reading Sands' book first and then Patterson's. Unlike the white-washed accounts in "Undiplomatic Memories," Patterson's book unabashedly reveals Sands' true impressions of Korea and the pressures internal and external that were asserted upon the peninsula. In his book, Sands wrote that "Chemulpo was an unattractive entrance to a great adventure" and then provided a rather benign description of the port. Patterson, however, using Sands' own letters, reveals the young American's real first impressions: "What a very awful country! Bleak, desolate, absolutely forlorn. A cold reception enough after the rough passage from Nagasaki. However, I am glad to be ashore again at any price, even though the people are dirty, and ugly, and the country uninteresting and bare. Not a sign of civilization, an awful place. Nagasaki was heavenly compared to this." Hongjimun and Ogandaesumun in the early 1900s Courtesy of "Undiplomatic Memories" by William Franklin Sands In his book, Sands described the journey from Chemulpo to Seoul in wonderful prose, poetic at times, and declared: "Seoul is the heart of the nation and the center of its life much more than Peking or Tokyo is the center of Chinese of Japanese national life. Seoul is to Korea much more than Paris is to France" In his first letters from Seoul, he described the city "as quite picturesque with its grey walls and background of black hills," but on the following day his writing turned ugly: "Seoul is dirty beyond all description, a medley of mud, filth and refuse of every description, pigs, pariah dogs, and worse, humans. It seems a most bleak, unpromising country." His recollections of the Korean monarch also differ. In "Undiplomatic Memories," he wrote: "The emperor, a white-faced little man, eager and timid in manner, was clothed in marvelous golden silk embroidered with the imperial dragon. He greeted us warmly, friendly and without ceremony. I took a great liking to the kindly gentle emperor, so evidently unfitted by temperament and training for the complexities of his rank in a changing civilization, and harried from his early childhood by forces which he did not understand and could not control, but against which he rebelled." Hongjimun and Ogandaesumun in 2020 Robert Neff Collection However, in his official correspondences, Sands' opinion was much different. He declared the emperor to be "absolutely untrustworthy, utterly without conscience, surrounded by Ministers of equally lax ideas of honesty and morality." While Sands was very diplomatic in his book in regards to the country and its monarch, he was very "undiplomatic" when he described other Korean officials and especially the foreign community. There are insinuations of murder (including regicide), illicit activities and romantic affairs (some one-sided) all of which make his book a wonderful read. However, Sands barely mentioned Allen in his book, but when he did it was in a respectable manner. Allen, on the other hand, seemed to take great pleasure in denigrating Sands in his own writing. Patterson's book provides another facet of the community gossip particularly the gossip surrounding Sands. Sands enjoyed gambling particularly cards but wasn't very good as evidenced by the amount of money he supposedly owed in gambling debts. In fact, the young American owed a lot of people money more than 30,000 yen ($15,000) and may have misappropriated some of the funds he received while working for the Korean government. Allen suggested Sands had spent some 60,000 yen ($30,000) in addition to his salary during his three-year term with the Korean government. Where did he spend this money? Well, Sands was a "lady killer" and enjoyed female companionship. There were several Western women he flirted with including Christine Collbran (who was also very popular with the Italian minister to Korea as well as some of the other junior diplomats) and the teenage wife of the Russian representative to Korea. However, it was a Japanese woman who caught his attention and his pocket. According to Allen's poisonous pen: "Sands' sleeping partner, 'Miss Butterfly,' who seems to be a favorite with young men, wanted to send a kimono to [American Legation Secretary Gordon] Paddock. She told the [Korean] servant to take [it] to 'Gordon,' but as she could not speak the name any plainer than the Korean, the latter addressed the envelope for her, containing her card and love, etc. to Mr. Collbran. Mrs. Collbran opened it, and [Mr.] Collbran was under the Doctor's care for three days. When he got out, there was a great time between him and Sands and Paddock, the two latter went and made a full explanation which appeased the ladies' wrath apparently, for they are both now received as usual. No wonder life is interesting in the far east." Segeomjeong in the early 1900s Courtesy of "Undiplomatic Memories" by William Franklin Sands I am surprised Patterson did not mention that Mrs. Collbran was no saint she was competing with her step-daughter for the Italian minister's affections. It got so bad that Mr. Collbran refused to allow the Italian minister to call upon the house. But to return to "Miss Butterfly," her relationship with Sands cost him 700 yen a month despite the fact his salary was only 300 yen a month. Fortunately, some of his other companions came at a cheaper price 60 sen (30 cents) for honey for his pet bear. Patterson also provides additional information about Sands' role during the Jeju Island Uprising in 1901 which was not included in "Undiplomatic Memories." Not only did Patterson use Sands' letters and manuscripts, he also used the testimonies and memories of Sands' sons. In a 1994 interview, James Sands, then in his 80s, declared, "My father was a dangerous man." He even produced a brick from Jeju Island that still bore the indentation of a bullet that had barely missed his father's head (you can read about the near-miss in Sands' book). Patterson also quotes Willmott Lewis, who knew Sands as "tall, young, and entirely without fear [having] known what it was like to sleep for weeks with a pistol in one hand and a Japanese sword in the other, or to dine with the holster-strap of a service revolver draped like the ribbon of a decoration across his front." There is also a very interesting section about Sands' relationship with the Belgian advisers. Their involvement with the Russians is often overlooked one was said to have even been a Russian spy and Patterson provides a wonderful but tantalizing look behind that door a door that needs to be opened up some more. Segeomjeong in 2023 Robert Neff Collection New York City mayor Eric Adams, who ran as a law-and-order candidate, has let down the voters who put him in office. Adams, it turns out, believes that the city's massive crime problem can be solved by going soft on criminals and instead placing the blame on alleged white racism. He is not at all different from the cadre of black mayors who refuse to deal intelligently with the rising contempt for the rule of law that has plagued American cities since the riots of 2020. The argument put forth by these mayors is that we must reject the concept that everyone ought to be treated equally under the law. Who could have predicted that, a mere half-century after the Civil Rights Movement, equality would be replaced with a new form of racism known as equity? What is equity? The objective of equity is not equality of opportunity, but rather equality of outcome. Everyone should have the same income, job success, house, neighborhood, etc. In an equitable world, equal justice under the law is anathema. The law must treat people differently based on their skin color. "Equity is based on the false premise of equal outcomes not equality of opportunity or equality under the law," writes Elizabeth Economou in a Fox opinion piece, "whereby resources are seized from one group and given to marginalized or preferred groups." Equity means we must give minorities, especially blacks, special treatment in order to even up the scales and compensate for past injustices. For equity to be reached, skin color must determine everything. The right kind of skin color is black or brown. White is the wrong color. Equity brings with it a dubious travel companion: Critical Race Theory. CRT categorizes you as either oppressor or oppressed based on your race, sex, or sexual orientation. Blacks are oppressed; whites are the oppressors. To accept CRT, one must acknowledge the existence of systemic racism and white supremacy. CRT is unapologetically racist and anti-white. Under CRT, it is open season on whites. The campaign for equity has spawned an inquisition where white people are considered unrepentantly racist and should be required to atone for their sins. One of the worst ideas ever invented by the Left, CRT wants to reintroduce racism and segregation to the forefront of American life. Under the guise of ending oppression of blacks, CRT would remake whites into the new underclass. An example was provided courtesy of the City of Seattle, which inaugurated a training session for white city employees to "undo their whiteness" and affirm their "complicity in racism." Can you imagine if Seattle required all black employees to undo their blackness? That clearly would be unacceptable and attacked as outright racist. But doing it to whites is justifiable. CRT is also used to justify murder, arson, and looting. Hundreds of American cities and towns have been destroyed by mobs acting in the name of social justice. Heather Mac Donald, author of The War on Cops, explains how it works. "One's alleged victimhood at the hands of a racist white male patriarchy entitles one to exemption from the rule of law and norms of bourgeois behavior," she writes. "Enough people are seduced and mesmerized and frankly lobotomized by the lies of identity politics and the idea that this is a racist country which it is not that they are willing to put up with the destruction of prosperity, of excellence, of future entrepreneurship." The weakness of equity lies in the fact that we can't afford to combat racism with more racism. CRT has been repudiated by respected black figures such as Thomas Sowell, Shelby Steele, Bob Woodson, Candace Owens, and Larry Elder. They agree that systemic racism and the oppression of blacks are evils of the past. "Past oppression," writes black author Shelby Steele, "cannot be conflated into present-day oppression. Blacks are now the victims of liberalism and wokeness. That's what's keeping us down, not racism. 'Systemic racism' is an idea to capture more black victimization." Steele put his finger on the real problem. "It is likely," he said, "that today's racial disparities are due more to dysfunctions within the black community." A tradition of black violence in urban settings is bringing civil society to its knees. In spite of a continuing history of violence, blacks are not being held responsible for their behavior. Black men make up six percent of the U.S. population. In 2015, according to Mac Donald, blacks in New York City committed 75 percent of all shootings, 70 percent of robberies, and 66 percent of all violent crime. Ignoring the obvious connection between black criminality and black incarceration, Democrat mayors in cities such as New York, San Francisco, and Chicago all of whom are black continue to blame white racism. They are using equity and CRT as a diversion from dealing with the real problem black crime and violence and instead claiming that the actual problem is white supremacy. Eric Adams has decided to follow in the footsteps of Seattle. He is forcing all New York City employees into CRT-inspired training with a deadline of March 6. "The training," explains a memo sent by the city, "provides all NYC employees with a framework to understand the importance of racial equity in the workplace. Become aware of systemic racism and the possible presence of racial inequality in your workplace. Understand the dominant cultural patterns of your workplace and whether they are hurting or helping your diversity, equity and inclusion goals." In plain English, Mayor Adams is abdicating his responsibility to fight crime by pointing a finger at whites. Offering a hint of his true agenda, Adams has expressed his approval of the weak-on-crime stance of the new Manhattan district attorney, Alvin Bragg. Bragg won election "on a highly progressive platform advocating a prosecutorial focus on 'racial equity,'" Hannah E. Meyers writes in City Journal, "that embraces non-prosecution, minimizing detention in favor of decarceration and decriminalization." "Adams should take crime seriously," suggests Meyers. "Allowing social programs to take the place of a serious crime-fighting policy is a strategy doomed to fail. Violent crime is a terrifying preoccupation for New Yorkers, especially black ones. Blacks make up roughly one-fifth of city residents, but they are wildly overrepresented as both perpetrators and victims. Eric Adams can do something about this reality. He can continue programs that encourage rigorous paths toward productive, stable lives, while supporting an accountable, intelligent, and well-manned police department. He can support equal opportunity by reaffirming the rule of law. And he can stand up for all New Yorkers by demonstrating that crime doesn't pay." Instead, Adams has rejected both equal opportunity and the rule of law. His inane answer to the city's crime problem is CRT training that puts the blame on alleged white racism. I can only wonder which solution New Yorkers would prefer: (1) crime statistics that are finally brought under control by sensible policies from the mayor's office or (2) letting the city's white citizens know that their unconscious bias will not be tolerated by Mr. Adams. Ed Brodow is a conservative political commentator and author of nine books, including his new #1 Amazon Best Seller, AMERICA ON ITS KNEES: The Cost of Replacing Trump with Biden. His website is www.edbrodowpolitics.com. Image: Eric Adams, mayor of New York. Credit: Krystalb97 via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0 (cropped). Increasingly, indoctrinated American college students agree that life would be better without the First Amendment. After all, that pesky First Amendment means that they are routinely exposed to ideas that frighten them or with which they disagree. What they fail to understand is that, once the government has the power to dictate what is acceptable speech and what is not, you discover yourself in a world like Iran, where the government plans to execute a pregnant woman for daring to burn a picture of the Ayatollah Khomenei. This appalling report originated with IranWire: Iranian judicial officials have sentenced a pregnant woman in her early-20s to death, and her execution is imminent, IranWire understands. Shahla Abdi, an ethic Kurd from the northwestern province of West Azerbaijan, was arrested in Urmia in mid-October at the peak of nationwide protests triggered by the September death of Mahsa Amini in the custody of morality police. Abdi is said to have received capital punishment for setting fire to a portrait of Ruhollah Khomeini, the founding father of the Islamic Republic. A fellow woman inmate told IranWire that Abdi was held in Urmia Central Prison for about a month. Some prisoners say the young woman was transferred to Tabriz Prison about three weeks ago; according to others, she was taken to the detention center of the Ministry of Intelligence. "When I saw this woman, she looked very young but weak and abused, and I realized that she was four months pregnant," the inmate said. Another inmate said that Abdi is 21 or 22 years old. Image: A pregnant woman by gpointstudio. This story is so surreal that I double-checked to see whether its been confirmed anywhere else. Daily Tribune/News of Bahrain, a regional outlet in the Middle East, has relied on IranWire to report the same story. Likewise, The National, a Canadian Broadcast Corporation outlet published in the UAE, has the same report. In other words, those geographically closest to the story believe its true. Before I get to the bit about her being pregnant, keep in mind that the woman is not being executed for the blasphemous crime in Islam of harming an image of Mohamed. Shes about to be killed because she disrespected an image of a cleric/political leader. And thats where a country without freedom of speech always ends up: Its a tyranny and, when people speak out against the tyrant, no matter the form that speech takes, they must die. In the West, even in the bad old days of people getting their hands cut off for theft and getting hanged or beheaded for murder, piracy, treason, and all sorts of other crimes, there was an exception for pregnant women: If they pleaded their belly, their sentence would be delayed until the infant was born as in the case of the female pirates Anne Bonny and Mary Read. A Judeo-Christian government would not knowingly execute an innocent child. The Mullahs who control Iran clearly have no such qualms about taking an innocent life. Thinking about it, it occurs to me (and this is a frightening thought) that not only would todays college students accept death as the price one pays for offending the government (providing that its a government they support), but they would also be comfortable with executing a pregnant woman. After all, those students who oppose free speech are the same students who insist that abortion should be freely available up to and after birth and who argue that a fetus is nothing more than an inanimate clump of cells. Courtesy of Robson Hatsukami Morgan By David Tizzard Is U.S. rep. Ilhan Omar anti-Semitic? The GOP says she is, and she was removed from the House Foreign Relations Committee on that basis. Rep. Omar says that she isn't. One thing that she does not dispute is that she is Muslim. At 9:29, Islams most authoritative scripture, the Quran, reads: "Fight those who do not believe in Allah or in the latter day and who do not forbid what Allah and His Messenger [Muhammad] have forbidden and who do not adopt Islam, (even if they are) of the People of the Book [Jews and Christians] - [fight] until they humbly pay the Jizyah and have been subdued." In short, fight everyone who is not a Muslim. Observant Muslims have acted in accordance with this (and related Scripture) for 14 centuries. In Central Africa, and in Judea and Samaria (which was a homeland for Jews before Islam existed), many Muslims openly comply with it to this day. To the command of 9:29, there are no qualifications; the belief in Allah trumps all other considerations. If there were a conflict between a Muslim and a non-Muslim nation, 9:29 would, regardless of the non-religious aspects of the conflict, require Rep. Omar to support the Muslim nation over the non- Muslim one. Does Rep. Omar publicly repudiate Sura 9:29? If she does not, then how could she have been seated in the Committee for Foreign Relations, as she was in previous Congresses? In it, her responsibility would not be to a sura/verse/religion that would dictate support for Islamic nations, but to the United States and to its Constitution This is not a criticism of Islam, but simply a recognition of it -- that it is not simply a religion, but is a political system that, through Sharia, has ruled nations and empires. One may argue whether Sharia is better or worse than the U.S. Constitution, but one cannot argue that they are not fundamentally different. Rep. Omar cannot serve both masters; she cannot serve both Sura 9:29 and the First Amendment. Image credit: YouTube screengrab Did Trump-endorsed candidates really lose in Arizona? Currently, the debate is about specific acts of election interference in Maricopa County. However, looking at election patterns across Arizona, theres a compelling argument to be made that Trump did not lose Arizona and that only chicanery can account for Maricopas gubernatorial and other high-office outcomes. Kari Lake has been busy assembling evidence showing that Arizonas 2022 November election was manipulated in the statewide races thanks to shenanigans in Maricopa County. However, its easier to understand the corollary evidence for this accusation, which lies in the simple reality that, statewide, Arizonans voted for House Congressional Republican candidates by a large margin56.4% to 42.8% over Democrats. This can be attributed to the fact that Arizonas nine Congressional Districts are spread across the state, and many are fully or mostly out of the jurisdiction of Maricopa County elections. (The same spread is true for the Arizona House of Representatives election.) The Arizona 2020 election sent five Democrats and four Republicans to the US House of Representatives. After redistricting and the 2022 elections, Arizona voters flipped those Representatives to six Republicans and three Democrats. Somehow the media and the Democrats (different labels for the same people) do not acknowledge this, while incongruously and loudly cheering Arizonas turn from red to purple. Image: Kari Lake. YouTube screen grab. The Democrats won four statewide offices in the Governor, Attorney General, Secretary of State, and US Senate races, most by very narrow margins. How can this happen when Arizona overwhelmingly voted for Republican Congressional candidates by nearly 14% while Republicans still maintained control over both branches of the Arizona Legislature? Against this backdrop, it makes sense to look at the numerous shenanigans that deliberately corrupted the vote in Maricopa County, home to 63% of Arizona voters: 1. Chain of custody issues concerning nearly 300,000 ballots. 2. Nearly an equal number with mismatched or phony signatures estimated in mail-in ballots. 3. Printers having issues on Election Day causing long delays in in-person voting estimated to favor Republicans by 3:1. Testimony was given in a court hearing that these printer issues could only be caused intentionally and were found mainly in Republican-leaning areas. Further, Stephen Richer and Maricopa Board of Supervisors Chair Bill Gates showed their political animus against the MAGA movement by backing a Political Action Committee to oppose Trump supporters. Additionally, the Democrat candidate for governor was none other than Arizona Secretary of State Katie Hobbs overseeing her own election. Hobbs threatened to sue Cochise County before the election for proposing an honest hand count of ballots. Her office further threatened felony charges against the Mohave County Board of Supervisors for holding back on certification of the 2022 election due to concerns about election integrity. The two Republican Congressional House candidates that flipped districts blue to red were both endorsed by Trump while Trump endorsed candidates narrowly lost in statewide races corrupted by Maricopa County. So, did Trump really suffer losses in Arizona? The entire concept of misinformation is a subterfuge to disguise outright censorship, and there are signs that the public has caught on to the con. The remaining institutions capable of feeling shame may be backing away from their earlier commitment to the cause. The hasty federal retreat from the planned Disinformation Governance Board under Scary Poppins Nina Janckowicz, obviously in conflict with the First Amendment, has now been joined by Harvard University. Will Potter writes in the UK Daily Mail: Harvard has scrapped its 'misinformation' research program and severed its ties with the project's controversial director, who used her position to cast doubt over the Hunter Biden laptop story. The project's leader Dr Joan Donavan is a so-called expert in the dangers of social media misinformation, and has publicly challenged the Hunter Biden laptop story during her time at the university. She led the project since its inception in 2019 with the aim to 'help newsroom leaders fight misinformation and media manipulation'. Donovan has been a loyal partisan, and staked her credibility (and the programs) on casting doubt on the veracity of Hunters laptop that threatens to expose Joe Buden as corrupt, bribed by foreign countries. Speaking on the Harvard Kennedy School podcast PolicyCast, she said: 'The sourcing of the laptop being dropped off in Delaware at a lonely repairman's shop that's just... 'If you can charge $85 for fixing a broken laptop, I want to know you. It's a broken laptop, right? 'So, the sourcing of it just stinks of tradecraft. It stinks of a drop. 'And many cyber-security professionals are waiting for an opportunity to forensically analyze the contents of this hard drive.' She also claimed that because other stories about Hunter Biden had circulated prior to the bombshell laptop leak, the story was less likely to be true. 'What we see as researchers when they're trying to make a story happen time and time again, and it doesn't, then you start to see the intensification and adaptation of tactics,' she said. 'So, we pretty much expected more and different styles of attack, including a leak, but was really suspicious of it, is you've got someone with millions of dollars. 'He can't afford Geek Squad at Best Buy to come to his house for the laptop that he has evidence of crimes on? I mean, it's really hard to believe.' Twitter via the UKDM. On my way out of the West Wing, I was gifted some Joe Biden signature M&Ms. Ever wonder what the deep state eats? Think about it. https://t.co/MFMVKBoW1i pic.twitter.com/pmAkBmJAsk Joan Donovan, PhD (@BostonJoan) January 23, 2023 The character M&Ms, just canned by Mars, Inc., are a nice touch. Harvards cover story for why they are booting the program is embarrassing: The director of Harvard's Shorenstein Center on Media, Politics, and Public Policy announced the institution was cutting ties with Donovan in an email obtained by Semafor. The email stated that the Technology and Social Change Project, which studied disinformation online, was being shuttered for what the outlet referred to as 'bureaucratic reasons.' 'The Kennedy School's standing policy is that all research projects must be led by a full faculty member,' said the email. 'While there can be limited exceptions, those can't continue indefinitely without a faculty member as the principal project leader and academic head. Has it taken them 4 years to recognize that Donovan was not a full member of the faculty? One can reasonably infer that the implicit admission by Hunter Bidens legal team that the laptop from hell is his (even though they laughably tried to walk that back) might have more to do with the timing of the decision. Donovans Twitter account indicates that shes already planning an alternative career consistent with her values and interests: I think for my next career, Ill open up a lesbian bookstore thats got a coffee stand and uhaul rental inside. One stop shopping. Joan Donovan, PhD (@BostonJoan) February 2, 2023 And seems to be spending time focused on personal priorities: food and her cat: Good luck with that bookstore in the age of Amazon! Are we in for another ugly surprise from the mRNA COVID vaccine? We already know about the myocarditis risk and the prospect of blood clots, and hear many reports of previously healthy young people mysteriously dropping dead. Now according to a new Project Veritas video with a Pfizer official, another may be coming along, too. According to The Vigilant Fox, which compiled a lot of tweets: Project Veritas released another breaking story last night featuring Pfizer executive Jordan Trishton Walker. This time, he was caught on camera openly admitting concern about women's cycles and their fertility. As a result, #Pfertility is trending on Twitter. BREAKING: @Pfizer Director Concerned Over Women's Reproductive Heath After COVID-19 Vaccinations "There is something irregular about their menstrual cycles...concerning...The vaccine shouldn't be interfering with that...It has to be affecting something hormonal..."#Pfertility pic.twitter.com/XAuMPJNShD Project Veritas (@Project_Veritas) February 2, 2023 In light of Project Veritas' latest bombshell, we have compiled an array of respected voices speaking out about menstrual and fertility concerns. Doctors, scientists, thought leaders, and women across the globe have been screaming from the rooftops on this subject for years now. #Pfertility Megathread Study Funded By The NIH Finds That 40.2% Of Vaccinated Women Experienced Menstrual Changes That means that over 40 million women in the United States have had their menstrual cycles affected by the C19 jab. Source: https://t.co/eHJVU00xVz pic.twitter.com/fUY0Qcisik The Vigilant Fox (@VigilantFox) February 3, 2023 Dr. @RWMaloneMD: "Something's Happening" With Reproductive Health "All these things (variations in menstrual cycles, onset of menses in post-menopausal women) are pointers that there's something going wrong with the ovaries because the ovaries drive menstruation." pic.twitter.com/GgKDDXInv1 The Vigilant Fox (@VigilantFox) February 3, 2023 Developing Female Fetuses Could Be Rendered Infertile, but It Will Not Fully Be Known Until 20 Years' Time Dr. Roger Hodkinson: "These nanoparticles from the clot shot ... are getting through the placenta and ... could be attacking the ovary of the developing female fetus. pic.twitter.com/I1hZdP47R5 The Vigilant Fox (@VigilantFox) February 3, 2023 So Pfizer knew about the potential for rendering those who take its COVID shot sterile, and did nothing, and the evidence is mounting that the mRNA vaccine's RNA nanoparticles hovers in the reproductive systems with high potential for rendering women and the babies they may be carrying sterile. And 42% of women report that there has been disruption of their menstrual cycles as a result of taking the vaccine which was mandatory if they expected to be able to perform normal activities such as working or flying a plane. That is one heck of a disturbing story which isn't getting much press coverage. One reason it may not be is that the story is depressing. Those who are noticing and calling for some kind of national "conversation" on this matter are branded vaccine skeptics and other crackpots, and have been banned on platforms like Twitter in the past. The prospect of Pfizer, with its powerful political muscle, coming clean on what it knows or telling the truth about the vaccine's potential side effects is just about nil. The public already knows that it won't get straight talk from Pfizer or any other profiting Big Pharma company on the risk of myocarditis -- why would they be honest about the impact on fertility? As for the potential harm itself, the impact of this news and study is life-changing damage as millions of people find out they can never become parents, and the people responsible for this cannot be sued. Unless Pfizer finds a way to reverse this damage, the damage is done and cannot be undone. What a terrible specter this presents as time goes on, with the consequences unknowable for the next 20 years. It goes to show that shutting down an economy and forcing a vaccine on the unwilling is bound to have terrible consequences and lead to national decline, of the kind that some nations such as France endured in the wake of the Napoleonic Wars when a huge demographic hole affected the nation's growth, with the same thing happening in Germany after World War I. The power-grabbing of the bureaucrats and pols, the mendacity of the companies, and the ease with which they all did their permanent damage in the wake of COVID seems incalculable. It underlines the importance of the remaining political leaders in a post-Joe Biden America, to mandate sunlight laws and full autonomy over one's choice to get vaccinated, and that they never let mass lockdowns ever happen again. Image: Pixabay, Pixabay license. Early yesterday it was reported a suspected Chinese high-altitude surveillance balloon is hovering over the United States. 'The fact is, we know that its a surveillance balloon The balloon has violated U.S. airspace and international law.' Pentagon press secretary Pat Ryder is disputing claims from the Chinese gov't that a balloon spotted in U.S. airspace is merely a weather research device. pic.twitter.com/SUkY1byMLH NowThis (@nowthisnews) February 3, 2023 The Chinese foreign ministry said they "regret the unintended entry" into U.S. airspace and that it was an accident caused by force majeure. They insist the balloon was "mainly for meteorological" purposes and warned against deliberate speculation. The balloon flew over Alaska's Aleutian Islands and through Canada before appearing over the city of Billings, Montana. Montana is home to one of Americas three nuclear missile silo fields. According to U.S. officials, the balloon has now moved over the Midwest and is now over "the middle of the country." I can confirm the Chinese spy ballon is over NE KS. My staff is in contact with law enforcement officials. I condemn any attempts the Chinese make to spy on Americans. President Biden must protect the sovereignty of the U.S. whether its our airspace or the southern border. Dr. Roger Marshall (@RogerMarshallMD) February 3, 2023 This is an unprovoked invasion of U.S. airspace and a violation of international law. The Pentagons press secretary, Brigadier General Pat Ryder, declined to divulge the balloons current location. Reporter: "Does the public not have a right to know if the balloon is over their state?" Brig. Gen. Pat Ryder: "The public certainly has the ability to look up in the sky and see where the balloon is" pic.twitter.com/H252gTi7cH Dave Brown (@dave_brown24) February 3, 2023 Defense officials were reportedly prepared with fighter jets, including F-22s, in case the White House ordered the airship to be shot down. However, Ryder insisted that the balloon does not present a military or physical threat to people on the ground at this time since it was well above the range of civilian air traffic. Ryder said that the U.S. decided not to shoot down the balloon because of the danger posed by falling debris to civilians and property. Ryder also added that the airship did not pose a risk to people on the ground as it currently is "traversing the continental United States" and they will continue to monitor and review options. Pentagon spokesman Brig. Gen. Patrick Ryder says the suspected Chinese spy balloon is moving eastward and currently over the center of the continental United States, and does not present a military or physical threat to people on the ground at this time. pic.twitter.com/XGHO6TQ4BA The Recount (@therecount) February 3, 2023 Ryder said that the Department of Defense is seeing reports of another balloon transiting Latin America. If the airship flies over California, Arizona, New Mexico, or Texas? That would be alarming considering the number of military installations in those states. Pentagon press secretary Air Force Brig. Gen. Pat Ryder says a Chinese balloon spotted over U.S. airspace is currently moving eastward. https://t.co/MkZKtDPPYj pic.twitter.com/fERbHAuaPw The Associated Press (@AP) February 3, 2023 Experts say that balloons of this kind could be fitted with advanced technology spy cameras and radar sensors. There are advantages to using balloons for surveillance - the primary reason being that they are relatively inexpensive and easier to deploy than drones or satellites. The fact that balloons linger around make it easy to monitor the target locations for prolonged periods of time. In contrast, the movement of a spy satellite is restricted to its orbital pass. Few have considered the possibility that toxic chemical or biological substances could be sprayed which may cause long- or short-term harm to the population or crops or property or military installations. If this truly was an accident or a malfunction, the Chinese officials should have warned U.S. officials in advance and worked with them to either redirect or bring down the balloon and then issued a groveling apology. But instead, the Chinese officials issued terse statements about the balloons function without proof. There was regret but no apology. Worse, despite being at fault, they issued warnings against "speculation." So the question remains, why would the Chicoms engage in an act this blatant? They have could have sent another spy to honeytrap Rep. Eric Swalwell or various other U.S. politicians to get the information they wanted. They could have infiltrated the staff of U.S. Sen. Dianne Feinstein or any other prominent politicians or government agencies. They could have hacked into various government websites. Why opt for a surveillance balloon, which is so conspicuous? Balloons are ancient in surveillance technology considering the rapid development in the field. They were used during the Napoleonic wars. Yet they could be dangerous. The Japanese military used them to launch bombs in the U.S. during World War II. They were also widely used by the U.S. and the Soviet Union during the Cold War. For powers such as the Chicoms, every action is a symbolic gesture. The statement here is that of domination. The presence of an uncontrolled foreign airship is an ominous sight for citizens. It is very likely that being spotted and being covered by the news and spreading paranoia was the whole point of the exercise. The balloon was probably meant to demonstrate sophisticated Chinese technological capability to penetrate U.S. airspace without risking a serious escalation. This is the equivalent of a bully invading the personal space of his target. The bully may not engage in a physical confrontation or verbally attack his target. But the fact that the bully made his target uncomfortable and his target failed to retaliate is symbolic of the domination of the bully and cowardice and surrender of the target. None of this would have ever occurred without Bidens hasty and unplanned withdrawal from Afghanistan. Yes, the U.S. military presence in Afghanistan needed to be drawn down but the withdrawal should have been strategic, like the Trump administration had intended. Instead, Biden went against the advice of experts and declared to the world that he was withdrawing from Afghanistan. The withdrawal on the ground was so abrupt that U.S. allies in Afghanistan who had risked their lives to join the Americans were not informed. They just turned up one morning to find that everyone had left. The order of withdrawal should have begun with expensive advanced equipment and weaponry, then key personnel, and finally, the armed forces. Instead, U.S. officials were pulled out first, allies were left behind, and millions of dollars worth of weaponry were abandoned. This caused the Taliban to retake Afghanistan and declare victory. The fact that the al Qaida chief Ayman al-Zawahiri was killed in Kabul around this time shows that various radical Islamic terror outfits had indeed made Afghanistan their haven. Biden squandered the efforts that cost the U.S. roughly $2 trillion, hundreds of thousands of lives, and more than two decades of commitment. Bidens poor leadership and decision-making made the U.S. look like an incompetent, uncaring, untrustworthy, and unreliable ally that has no appetite for a fight anymore. Real toughness doesnt mean entering wars, but building the armed forces to such an extent that it serves as a deterrent. In street terms, an individual does not need to enter into a fistfight to triumph over every thug in the neighborhood to prove superiority. The individual could show strength to such an extent that none dare to enter into a physical conflict. This is exactly what President Trump did during his tenure. Months after Bidens withdrawal from Afghanistan, Russia's Vladimir Putin decided to militarily invade Ukraine and China began acting aggressively toward Taiwan. Bidens support for the conflict in Ukraine cost the U.S. almost $111 billion and Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky is now demanding more. There have been threats of retaliatory nuclear attacks on U.S. soil from Russia and even from North Korea. This airship seems to be a threat both literally and symbolically. The U.S. Department of Defenses report highlighted that there had been 366 newly categorized unidentified aerial phenomena in U.S. airspace in 2022. It is quite likely that similar balloons have loitered in the airspace before. The Biden administration's tepid response despite the serious risk shows the lack of will and leadership in the White House. Some wondered if Bidens shady business deals in China has encumbered him. President Trump: "SHOOT DOWN THE BALLOON!" pic.twitter.com/N6AYiLIAB5 Citizen Free Press (@CitizenFreePres) February 3, 2023 The only viable option is shooting down the balloon when it reaches an unpopulated area. This will deter the Chinese or other adversaries from dispatching more balloons or engaging in any other hostility in the future. As President Harrison Ford said in the movie Air Force One "If you give a mouse a cookie, he will demand a glass of milk." Image: David Remmers via Dr. Roger Marshall, Twitter screen shot. There is no need for DNA analysis to establish the presence of the imperialism gene in the Russian genome. This gene was inherited by the Russian Federation from Tsarist Russia and the Soviet Union. There is no need to conduct DNA analysis to establish the presence of the imperialism gene in the Iranian genome. This gene was passed on to Iran from the Persian Empire and the Islamic consciousness of superiority over "infidels. The military alliance between the Russian Federation and Iran means the formation of a "double helix" for the new gene of imperialism, the gene for the destruction of resistance to democracy and law enforcement. Ukrainians are also "infidels" because they fight against their former suzerain and refuse to recognize themselves not just as vassals of the Russian Federation, but as members of the Russian people and the "Russian world." The "Russian world" is so saturated with war that it leaves no chance for people who join it to exist peacefully. "Denazification" of Ukraine, stated as one of the goals of Russia's war, means the recognition of Ukrainians as Russian people. Their refusal to identify themselves with Russia and their desire to exist independently of it are perceived as an encroachment on the sovereign rights of the Russian Federation over the territory of the former possessions of the Russian Empire and the Soviet Union. Although Russia and Iran are rivals in oil and gas sales and competitors in seizing spheres of influence in the Middle East, especially in Syria, confrontation with the United States and NATO and Western economic sanctions have brought them closer together. Russia and Iran have similar goals: Russia exports to other countries the idea of a "right" world order in which it is the leading force and legislator; Iran exports to different parts of the globe the Islamic Shiite revolution. Both countries have successfully suppressed resistance to their regimes within their own countries and seek to do the same on a global scale. According to some reports, they are consulting with each other on methods of suppressing popular unrest and overcoming western sanctions. Iran has powerfully supported the Russian Federation by supplying it with thousands of drones. How deep and reliable is the cooperation between the Islamic Republic, which believes that Christianity must disappear, and Christian Russia? According to U.S. intelligence, the first batch of short-range Fateh-110 and Zolfaghar missiles, capable of hitting targets at a distance of 300 and 700 km respectively, is already being prepared for Russia in Iran. Most likely, ballistic missiles produced by Iran will be placed on the northern border of Ukraine. Ukraine has no effective defense against missiles because it has only air defense, but no missile defense. These missiles will be aimed at Kiev to try to destroy the Ukrainian government or at least prevent decisions of national importance from being made. Instead of the hapless and unsuccessful invasion of Russian tank columns at the beginning of the war, the Russian Federation will use missiles against a poorly defended Ukraine. Western tanks will not be able to defend Kiev, the center of the Ukrainian resistance, which will be subjected to Mariupol-type destruction. The war in Ukraine may last even if Putin leaves the presidency, since the reason for the attack is not one dictator or another at the head of the Russian Federation, but Russian imperialism, which is unable to retreat. There is no reverse in its gearbox. Iran is also losing a sense of what is useful and what is right for it as it opens another front, additional to the Syrian, Israeli, Yemeni, Lebanese, Iraqi and Saudi fronts. Iran is on the verge of national overstretch. In imperialism, self-control is a rare phenomenon. So, the system commands itself to advance at all costs. It is not only a developed mechanism of necessary and unavoidable lies, but also the self-deception of an imperialist regime convinced of its rightness and of its victory. Image: Manhhai Joe Biden has been hit by crisis after crisis as a result of his own bad decisions, and oddly enough, they are starting to look alike. Take the latest China balloon incursion, where some kind of spying device has been sent over military installations throughout the U.S. interior, with Biden doing nothing about it. That's a sovereignty violation that ought to be drawing a major response to an arrogant, expanding wannabe superpower desperate to flex its military muscles, yet Joe's response, that shooting the invading device down might create debris or hit a populated area (America is loaded with unpopulated ones the balloon is traversing) is simply pathetic. Is it all that different from his open borders policies, where millions of unvetted foreign migrants are flooding into this country without authorization, bringing crime, drugs, and costs, yet there too nothing is done about it? Joe offers an absurd excuse for that decision, as well claiming that all migrants who can utter the magic word 'asylum' are entitled to a free ride inside the U.S. for years or more, amounting to an all-expenses paid trip for thousands. What we see here is a failure to protect, the prime duty of any leader of a nation, and an indifference to duty. Years ago, over at the United Nations, Samantha Powers and her ilk, writing about Rwanda, even came up with the concept of "duty to protect" on humanitarian grounds, claiming that all nations have an obligation to prevent genocide. Duty and protection has an odd parallel to the archetypical concept of manhood, as it's a manly virtue to protect one's own and immediate community, a masculine virtue that, to look at his fatherhood output, Joe's never had. Now that the nation is being invaded from its south and now from above, Joe's excusemaking for doing nothing rather resembles that of a slovenly absentee father who lets his kids grow up with no guidance, like stones in the field, with the predictable outcome of Hunter Biden. Duty to protect? Sure, Biden protects Hunter now from the inevitable results of how he was raised the way some divorced fathers shower gifts on their kids to assuage their guilt complexes at being absent from their lives. Tucker Carlson had an even better comparison, though in this piece described by Thomas Lifson -- Biden protects Hunter from the inevitable consequences of his dissolute actions the same way Saddam Hussein protected Uday and Qusay from any repercussions from their out-of-control behavior. The time to protect was when the kids were growing up, not after they became runaway trains without brakes. And in some parallel way, we see the same Joe Biden failing to protect the U.S. when it's important to protect the U.S. He's allowing Mexico to flood the U.S. border with literally millions of illegals from more than a hundred nations and he's allowing China to flood the U.S. with spy balloons which can linger and view U.S. installations, gathering intelligence, for far longer than satellites on fixed orbits. He might try to protect the U.S. in a military attack or some kind of other attack as a public relations measure, but not when the groundwork is being set. His entire orientation is about protecting himself politically through public relations moves, not about protecting the country for real, which is his job as president. On the border, we have seen the suppression of news about the incoming disaster. It only got out of control for Biden when mayors from blue sanctuary cities where migrants were being bused in from Texas and Florida, started complaining about incoming numbers and the associated costs. Border visits from Bidenites were non-existent, the border crisis was fobbed off to an incompetent vice president, Kamala Harris, who had little interest in the job, and vigorous efforts were made to shut down Fox News coverage. Now they are attempting to lower the illegal crossing numbers by encouraging migrants to enter through an online asylum program, which ensures that their entry will not be counted as an illegal crossing. They are even recruiting illegals waiting in Mexico to get those numbers down. Suffice to say, this is all about public relations. We see the same public relations orientation in Biden's foolish response to the Chinese spy balloon incursion. Anybody notice who's being trotted out to give Jen Psaki-level absurd answers to press queries? It's not the suited John Kirby anymore, it's generals with all their medals on display, their scrambled eggs and the full regalia, which it's dubious they wear on the job every day, sending out a message that they are big and distinguished people, authorities, to make up for the fact that they don't speak with much authority. They are redolent of Gen. Mark Milley, who liked to wear his many medals on his overweight frame, similar to a Venezuelan general, yet was the height of incompetence in that Afghanistan pullout as well (another unmanly failure to protect) as in his bizarre phone conversations with a Chinese military leader assuring that he'd made sure they'd have nothing to worry about from his commander-in-chief. Whose side was he on? We see the same Milleyism with the balloon. Duty to protect? Only to themselves. These aren't men, they are what Marine sergeants call 'maggots.' And this is a sorry pattern we are seeing over and over with the Biden regime, a studied failure to protect the U.S. from any kind of danger, with only P.R. to throw like biscuits at the groundings. Whatever it is, it's not a sustainable model in a free society, which requires a strong and protective leader. Now, there may be reasons for Joe's failure to shoot the balloon down, noted here, but the response is important, too, and Joe's not doing it. I did a radio interview yesterday with the great Shaun Thompson of Salem Radio AM 560, and he wondered if this Chinese balloon incident might just be a tipping point with Joe and the public. I think he's onto something. You don't fail at that elemental a level, on a right-stuff sort of an issue, like protecting the country as its commander in chief, without consequences. That's a character issue. What happens to leaders who fail in their elemental duties to protect on the most basic level and the spin is no longer working? It's not a pretty picture. Image: Screen shot from BigDaddy4212 video, via YouTube A new report has surfaced showcasing that following the latest update, the Galaxy Watch 5 is having an issue with the display wake. Specifically, the raise to wake gesture. According to 9To5Google, users on Reddit have begun documenting the issue with the Galaxy Watch 5 and its display wake action that happens when you raise the watch from your side. The problem is said to impact more than just a few users. Though it does not appear to be a problem that is impacting everyone. Samsung has reportedly been radio silent on the issue thus far. Which, while unfortunate, may suggest the company is trying to work out the problem before addressing the public. That wouldnt be such a hard thing to believe, although it might not necessarily be the best decision. As users who are experiencing the issue are voicing concern and they want a resolution. And sometimes simply acknowledging the problem goes a long way. The display wake issue isnt just happening on the Galaxy Watch 5 This problem has surfaced on the Galaxy Watch 5 but the initial Reddit post shows it popping up on a Galaxy Watch 4. So if you have the older model watch you may want to keep an eye out for it. If you updated the watch to its most recent software version. Essentially whats happening, is the raise to wake gesture activates, and the screen comes on. As it should. But then its immediately going back to sleep. Where instead, it should stay awake for at least a few seconds. Also worth noting is that the initial poster says the issue pops up on occasion. So it sounds like it might not happen all the time. But often enough to be an annoying problem. You can avoid this issue if you simply dont update your watch. But that might also lock you out of any fixes or improvements that were part of the update. Hopefully, Samsung will formally address the problem soon and get a fix out to those impacted. Privatized companies on alert over Yoon's request to revamp governances By Park Jae-hyuk The Yoon Suk Yeol administration has indicated its intention to meddle in the governance of former public enterprises that have long since been privatized two decades ago as the government forced financial holding companies recently to replace their chairmen. Concerns are therefore growing over the possibility of nepotism spreading to both KT and POSCO Holdings, based on who ends up replacing their chief executives. On Jan. 30, Yoon said that "stewardship" is needed at companies with a multiple ownership structure that were privatized after being operated in the past as state-run enterprises. In the capital market, stewardship refers to the interference of institutional investors in the management of companies they invest in. "If banks and companies with totally dispersed ownership have transparent governance structures and their managers do business under such structures, those companies and our society will be able to achieve harmony in terms of costs and profits," the president said after listening to the Financial Services Commission's plans for this year. Although he did not name the companies directly, his remarks were considered controversial enough to unnerve KT and POSCO Holdings, given that Shinhan, Woori and NongHyup financial groups have already decided to replace their chairmen. Shinhan Financial Group Chairman Cho Yong-byoung offered to resign last December, handing over his post to former Shinhan Bank CEO Jin Ok-dong. Woori Financial Group Chairman Son Tae-seung also decided not to serve another term last month, after facing pressure from the financial authorities to step down. NongHyup Financial Group gave the seat of its chairman last December to former Minister of the Office for Government Policy Coordination Lee Suk-joon, who had chaired Yoon's presidential campaign early last year. Amid the growing influence of the government over banking groups, the National Pension Service (NPS) criticized KT and POSCO Holdings for allowing their incumbent chief executives to maintain their positions through unfair reappointment procedures. The state-run pension fund, which is the largest shareholder of both companies, has especially opposed the KT board's plan to reappoint CEO Ku Hyeon-mo, claiming that its recommendation procedure was unfair and not transparent. "KT's recommendation of the incumbent CEO as the sole candidate does not accord with the basic principle of election," NPS Chief Investment Officer Seo Won-joo said in a press release last month. It was unusual for the pension fund to release a statement to level criticism at a privately owned company's decision, but its stance has gained support from the ruling People Power Party, as well as progressive civic groups. "In addition to the NPS, civic groups including the People's Solidarity for Participatory Democracy questioned the reappointment of Ku," Rep. Kim Yeung-shik of the ruling People Power Party said on Jan. 30. "Even if its interference is branded as government control over private enterprises, the NPS needs to follow the stewardship code." Against this backdrop, the CEOs of KT and POSCO Holding did not attend Yoon's meeting with business leaders earlier this year, creating speculation that they are facing pressure to step down. The Korea Chamber of Commerce and Industry, which organized the event, said at that time that invitations had been sent to both KT and POSCO Holdings, but their CEOs were absent from the event. Both KT and POSCO Holdings have maintained a cautious stance on the recent situation. Their respective CEOs took office under the previous Moon Jae-in administration. While the KT CEO hopes to serve another term, POSCO Holdings Chairman Choi Jeong-woo is supposed to finish his term in March next year. However, it is unclear whether Choi will be able to complete his term, considering the fact that his predecessors stepped down in the aftermath of the transfer of political power. POSCO founder Park Tae-joon resigned after a political dispute with former President Kim Young-sam. His successors also failed to serve out their terms. Former Chairman Chung Joon-yang, who was appointed under the Lee Myung-bak administration, offered to resign after former President Park Geun-hye took office. His successor, former Chairman Kwon Oh-joon, was reappointed in March 2017, but he stepped down under the Moon administration. At KT, former CEO Nam Joong-soo resigned after the launch of the Lee administration, while former Chairman Lee Suk-chae stepped down after being investigated by prosecutors under the Park administration. Industry officials raised concerns over the repeated replacement of the CEOs of both companies, pointing out the possible inefficiency in their management. "It may cause a problem, if the NPS meddles excessively with management of private enterprises," said Yoo Hwan-ik, head of the Federation of Korean Industries (FKI) corporate policy division. "The NPS should be more cautious about its interference in management, although it should request transparent governance structures." POSCO and KT were privatized in 2000 and 2002, respectively. There remains a possibility that their foreign shareholders refuse to follow the government's attempt to replace their CEOs. In 2018, the Moon administration tried to replace KT&G CEO Baek Bok-in by utilizing shares owned by the state-run Industrial Bank of Korea, but it ended in failure as the tobacco maker's foreign shareholders voted for Baek's reappointment. The victim of a fatal shooting has been named as Fernando Johnson. Officers were called to an address in Rosebank Way, Acton, west London, at 2.15am on January 26 to reports that a man had been seriously injured, the Metropolitan Police said. Despite the efforts of the London Ambulance Service Mr Johnson, 23, died at the scene. A post-mortem examination gave cause of death as a gunshot wound. On January 28 a man in his 20s was arrested on suspicion of murder. He was taken into custody and later released on bail. Fernando Johnson (Metropolitan Police/PA) Detective Chief Inspector Matt Denby, senior investigating officer, has appealed to the public for any information relating to the incident. My team are making good progress with their inquiries but, as always, we are keen to hear who might have been in and around the area at the time of this incident, he said. A web portal has been launched for members of the public to upload material that could assist our investigation directly to us. I urge you to check doorbell cameras and dash cam footage for anything you may have captured, it doesnt matter if you think it is insignificant, we still want to receive it. Anyone with any information has been asked to contact police on 101 or tweet @MetCC and quote CAD 514/26Jan. Alternatively, the public can provide information anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or by visiting Crimestoppers-uk.org. The death of a man in a Canvey Island car park may have been the result of a targeted attack, murder squad detectives have said. Essex Police said the man, in his 40s, was found injured in the car park next to Iceland in Furtherwick Road in the early hours of Saturday. Officers were called just before 1.45am and it is believed he had been assaulted near to The Haystack pub a short time earlier. Emergency services responded, but he died at the scene. Detective Chief Inspector Greg Wood, who is leading the investigation, said: We believe those involved had been inside The Haystack pub earlier in the evening. I believe that someone who was in the pub, or lives locally, will know the identity of those responsible and I urge anyone to contact us or Crimestoppers with the information they have. The detective leading the murder investigation on #CanveyIsland says the incident doesn't pose a risk to the wider public. DCI Greg Wood says he also believes those involved were in The Haystacks pub earlier in the night. Any info, please contact us.https://t.co/JaebDRM8Ex Essex Police (@EssexPoliceUK) February 4, 2023 At this stage I believe the assault was a targeted attack and this incident does not pose a threat to the wider public. He described the murder investigation as progressing well, and detectives are building a picture of the circumstances which led up to this fatal assault. A police cordon was erected in an area of the island including Furtherwick Road and Long Road and people were warned to expect disruption to the centre of Canvey throughout Saturday. Mr Wood said police would still be working at the scene on Sunday, but it is hoped the size of the cordon could be reduced later on Saturday. He added: However, I expect a cordon to remain in place until tomorrow as our inquiries progress. I know this has caused disruption to the centre of Canvey today but it has been to allow essential work to take place, and I want to thank the public for their patience and understanding. Police are asking anyone who has information, CCTV, dash cam or other footage in relation to this incident to contact them and to reference it as incident 124 of February 4. They can submit a report on the forces website or use a weekday online live chat service. They could go online at www.essex.police.uk/digital101 to find out more about our website reporting services or call police on 101. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken attends a meeting with China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi (not in picture) in Nusa Dua on the Indonesian resort island of Bali, in this July 8, 2022, file photo. AFP-Yonhap U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken scrapped a rare Beijing trip aimed at easing escalating tensions between the two global powers, Friday, after the Pentagon said China had flown a spy balloon over the United States. Moments before the decision, China issued a rare statement of regret and blamed winds for diverting what it called a civilian airship. But President Joe Biden's administration described it as a maneuverable "surveillance balloon" that was floating over the central United States, Friday. With the rival Republican Party already on the offensive, Blinken postponed his two-day visit that would have started Sunday. In a telephone call with senior Chinese official Wang Yi, Blinken said he "made clear that the presence of this surveillance balloon in U.S. airspace is a clear violation of U.S. sovereignty and international law, that it's an irresponsible act." Blinken said, however, that he told Wang that "the United States is committed to diplomatic engagement with China and that I plan to visit Beijing when conditions allow." "The first step is getting the surveillance asset out of our airspace. That's what we're focused on," he told reporters. Blinken would have been the first top U.S. diplomat to visit China since October 2018, signaling a thaw following intense friction under former President Donald Trump. Last month, Blinken said he would use the trip to help establish "guardrails" to prevent the relationship from escalating into all-out conflict. Republican lawmakers quickly pounced on the balloon incident, casting Biden who has largely preserved and at times expanded Trump's hawkish policies on China as weak. "President Biden should stop coddling and appeasing the Chinese communists. Bring the balloon down now and exploit its tech package, which could be an intelligence bonanza," tweeted Senator Tom Cotton, a prominent hardliner who had urged Blinken to call off his trip. "Shoot down the balloon!" added Donald Trump on his Truth Social media platform. An American flag is flown next to the Chinese national emblem during a welcome ceremony at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, Nov. 9, 2017. AP-Yonhap China voices regret The Pentagon said Friday the balloon was heading eastwards over the central United States, adding it was not being shot down for safety reasons. Wang Yi urges US to 'avoid misjudgment' over balloon controversy Chinese spy balloon 'transits' Latin America after first craft flies over US China says it's looking into report of spy balloon over US After initial hesitation, Beijing admitted ownership of the "airship" and said it veered off course due to wind. "The airship is from China. It is a civilian airship used for research, mainly meteorological, purposes," said the statement attributed to a foreign ministry spokesperson. "The Chinese side regrets the unintended entry of the airship into U.S. airspace due to force majeure," it said, using the legal term for an act outside of human control. "The Chinese side will continue communicating with the U.S. side and properly handle this unexpected situation." A U.S. defense official said earlier that Biden had asked for military options but that the Pentagon believed shooting the object down would put people on the ground at risk from debris. The balloon has "limited additive value from an intelligence collection perspective," the defense official told reporters on condition of anonymity. The United States is also widely believed to spy on China, although generally with more advanced technology than balloons. The northwestern United States is home to sensitive airbases and nuclear weapons in underground silos. Pentagon spokesman Pat Ryder said Friday that the balloon was traveling at 60,000 feet (18,000 meters) far above the altitude used by commercial aircraft. "We know that it's a surveillance balloon," he said. "We're monitoring and reviewing options." A high altitude balloon floats over Billings, Mont., Feb. 1. AP-Yonhap Bracing for worst Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, who was visiting the Philippines, held discussions with top Pentagon officials after the balloon was detected. Austin agreed to expand the U.S. military presence In the Philippines, weeks after a separate troop deal with another regional ally, Japan. The U.S. military moves show that the United States is preparing for potential conflict over Taiwan, the self-governing democracy China claims as its own, despite diplomatic efforts. Biden held a surprisingly cordial meeting in November with Chinese President Xi Jinping on the sidelines of a summit in Bali, where they agreed to send Blinken to Beijing. A U.S. military officer recently told his forces to be ready for war with China. A murder investigation has been launched after a man died in a Canvey Island car park. Essex Police said the man, in his 40s, was found injured in the car park next to Iceland in Furtherwick Road in the early hours of Saturday. Officers were called just before 1.45am and it is believed he had been assaulted near to The Haystack pub a short time earlier. Emergency services responded but he died at the scene. A murder investigation's started following the death of a man on #CanveyIsland. He was found injured in the car park to Iceland on Furtherwick Rd at around 1.45am. It's believed he'd been assaulted near to The Haystack pub. Any info, please contact us.https://t.co/JaebDRM8Ex Essex Police (@EssexPoliceUK) February 4, 2023 Detective Chief Inspector Greg Wood, who is leading the investigation, said: I want to extend my condolences to the family of the man who has died. There is a team of officers and staff working hard to establish what happened to him and we are starting to build a picture of the circumstances around the assault. If you saw what happened, or have any other information about the assault then I need you to contact us. An area of the island including Furtherwick Road and Long Road has been cordoned off while the police investigate. Disruption is expected to the centre of Canvey throughout Saturday. A Royal Navy ship had to return to a naval base as a precautionary measure after an issue with the vessels fresh water systems, it has been reported. At least one sailor on HMS Portland had to be taken to hospital following problems with water supplies on the vessel, the Daily Telegraph reported. The ship returned to Portsmouth and the issue is being investigated. HMS Portland tracking Russian Akula-class attack submarine Vepr in the North Sea, north west of Bergen, Norway in 2022 (Ministry of Defence Crown copywright/PA) A Royal Navy spokesperson said: We can confirm that HMS Portland has returned to HMNB Portsmouth as a precautionary measure, following an issue with one of the ships fresh water systems. The health and safety of our personnel is of the utmost importance and we are taking a number of measures to safeguard the ships company whilst the issue is investigated. A small number of personnel were taken to hospital as a precaution and HMS Richmond has been stood up to cover any contingencies. The recent issue with contaminated water in HMS Portland will be investigated thoroughly. Nearly all involved have been discharged from hospital. All are expected to make a full recovery. We take the health and welfare of our people very seriously and will review processes to ensure this does not happen again. The Telegraph reported a Navy source as stating the wrong chemicals were put into the water system but that the mistake had been quickly flagged by the person involved. Last month HMS Portland, a Type 23 frigate, was involved in monitoring a Russian-guided missile frigate and accompanying tanker as they sailed in international waters near the UK. The vessel underwent a major refit in 2021 and is adept at surface warfare and hunting submarines, the Royal Navy has previously said. It spent much of last year patrolling waters close to the UK, with visits to Norway and Sweden, and working with Nato allies on the alliances submarine hunting exercise, Dynamic Mongoose, in the North Atlantic. Aerial divisions in southern California have continued to patrol the skies intermittently in the search for Julian Sands, as efforts to find the British actor reached the third-week mark. The San Bernardino County Sheriffs Department said such efforts would normally be downgraded to a passive search after 10 days, but that plans had been extended, as ongoing bad weather continued to hamper operations. Sands, 65, was reported missing on January 13, after he failed to return from a hike in the Mount Baldy region of the San Gabriel mountains. Numerous searches for the actor have since been undertaken on foot and by air by both local and state-level agencies. Sands, 65, was reported missing on January 13, after he failed to return from a hike in the Mount Baldy region of the San Gabriel mountains (Ian West/PA) On Friday, three weeks on from his disappearance, the sheriffs department said conditions continued to be problematic. Julian Sands has now been missing for three weeks, a spokesman told the PA news agency. Our Aviation Division continues to patrol that area, intermittently, in search of Mr Sands. Typically, we search for 10 days before downgrading to a passive search. In this case, with the weather precluding a continuous search, we extended those plans. While weather and mountain conditions continue to be an issue, we will resume ground searches once weather conditions permit and as the snow melts. Authorities have previously used a Recco device, which is able to detect electronics and credit cards, in the hopes of establishing a more exact area in which to focus search efforts. Last weekend, after searches reached the two week mark, Sands hiking partner and friend Kevin Ryan told PA that it was obvious something has gone wrong but that the actors advanced experience and skill would hopefully see his safe return. It comes following news that the brother of Sands ex-wife, Sarah Sands, has died. Kit Hesketh-Harvey died unexpectedly but peacefully at the age of 65, his management confirmed. Three teenage boys have been charged with the murder of a man who was stabbed to death in the West Midlands. Bailey Atkinson, 20, was attacked on the High Street in Walsall in the early hours of January 28. The trio one 15-year-old and two aged 16 were arrested at a hotel in Rhyl in North Wales, on Tuesday and West Midlands Police confirmed they had been charged on Friday night. #CHARGED | This evening we have charged three teenage boys with the murder of Bailey Atkinson who was stabbed to death in #Walsall on Saturday night. Full details here https://t.co/bUKANvg2SY pic.twitter.com/3PTvMiZVXh Walsall Police (@WalsallPolice) February 3, 2023 They are due to appear at Wolverhampton Magistrates Court on Saturday. The suspects cannot be named due to their ages. Mr Atkinson was taken to hospital after the stabbing, but died of his injuries. A post-mortem revealed the victim, from Bloxwich, had died of multiple stab wounds. Detective Inspector Jim Mahon said: Our investigation has been fast paced but has not stopped with these arrests. We know there were others involved in the tragic events of Saturday night and we are determined to find everyone involved to get justice for Baileys family. We urge anyone with information that they may be withholding, possibly through misguided loyalty, to come forward now. Mr Atkinsons family have previously paid tribute to him as their beloved boy Bailey, our kindhearted and much-loved son, brother and grandson. They added: Bailey was so loved, by so many and will be missed so much. A Section 60 dispersal order will remain in place until Saturday morning in the areas of St Matthews, Bloxwich West and East, Blakenall, Birchills and Leamore, The order, which police said is used when there is a risk of violence, allows officers to stop and search people suspected of being involved in violence, without the need to have reasonable grounds. Armie Hammer sat down with Air Mail for his first interview in two years. (Photo: Tibrina Hobson/WireImage) Armie Hammer is speaking out, nearly two years after he was accused of rape and abuse by an ex-partner. The Call Me By Your Name star stepped back from the spotlight in 2021, after DMs allegedly belonging to the actor surfaced on an anonymous Instagram account. The messages attributed to Hammer included talk of cannibalism and violent, aggressive sex. Later, former partners of Hammer accused him of non-consensual behavior during their relationship, with one alleging that he carved the letter A on her body without explicit permission. A previous partner accused him of emotional, physical and mental abuse and rape, a case which the Los Angeles Police Department went on to investigate. Hammer broke his media silence in an interview with Air Mail this week, in which he denied having non-consensual sex with any of his previous partners. (Hammer was not charged following the 2021 Los Angeles Police Department investigation into the rape and abuse claims made by Hammers former partner.) He spoke about his interest in BDSM, and said he believed it stemmed from sexual abuse he experienced as a child, which set a dangerous precedent for his future relationships. What that did for me was it introduced sexuality into my life in a way that it was completely out of my control, he told the magazine. I was powerless in the situation. I had no agency in the situation. My interests then went to: I want to have control in the situation, sexually. He also claimed that the rape his accuser publicly discussed was part of their BDSM relationship and a consensual scene that was her idea. She planned all of the details out, all the way down to what Starbucks I would see her at, how I would follow her home, how her front door would be open and unlocked and I would come in, and we would engage in what is called a consensual non-consent scene, CNC, Hammer said, adding that they only had one, scheduled CNC event. While Hammer stated that his relationships were consensual, he added that his behavior towards his partners outside of his marriage to now ex-wife Elizabeth Chambers could be one million percent considered emotionally abusive. Im here to own my mistakes, take accountability for the fact that I was an a*****, that I was selfish, that I used people to make me feel better, and when I was done, moved on, Hammer explained. And treated people more poorly than they should have been treated. He also acknowledged the summer 2022 stories about him working as a timeshare salesman in the Cayman Islands, where he spent much time following the allegations. Though he was not making money, he became the subject of an immigration investigation over a lack of a work permit. Finding a normal life, he said, was the only route to go as in Hollywood, no one will hire me. No one will insure me. I cant get bonded for a project nothing, he said of his future acting career. And no one will touch me because if they hire me, then they are the people who support abusers. And then theyre liable to get canceled themselves because this fire that is burning itself through town when they throw someone like me on the fire to protect themselves, what they dont realize is happening is all theyre doing is making the fire bigger. And that fire is now out of control and its going to burn everyone. And theyre just continually throwing people on it as sacrifices to protect themselves. The bodies of two British volunteers who flew to eastern Ukraine following the Russian invasion last year have been recovered as part of a prisoner swap with Russia. Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelenskys chief of staff confirmed that the bodies of Chris Parry, 28, and Andrew Bagshaw, 47, had been returned to Ukraine. It is not yet known when they will be handed to British embassy staff to be returned home. Chris Parry (left) and Andrew Bagshaw were killed while attempting a rescue mission (Chris Parry/Instagram/The Spearhead Foundation/Reuters) The two volunteers had last been seen heading to the city of Soledar on 6 January. The families of the men say they were killed while carrying out a humanitarian rescue. Mr Bagshaws family said the pair had been attempting to assist an elderly woman when their cars were hit by a shell. Soledar has been a focus of intense fighting between Ukrainian and Russian forces. Russias military claimed to have captured the Ukrainian salt-mining town, calling the victory an important step for its offensive. The claim of victory was disputed by Ukrainian government officials in Kyiv. Ukraines chief of staff Andriy Yermak said 116 Ukrainian soldiers had been released on Saturday, despite the continued fighting between the two sides. Mr Yermak said that the prisoners who had been returned included defenders of Mariupol, partisans from Kherson, and snipers from Bakhmut, as well as two personnel involved in special operations. Russias defence ministry said that 63 of its servicemen had been returned in what was described as a complex mediation process. The defence ministry said the group included personnel in a sensitive category thanks to mediation involving the United Arab Emirates, although no further details were given of the roles of those released. Andrew Bagshaw, who was killed along with Christopher Parry (Family handout) (PA Media) In a statement released by the UK Foreign Office, Mr Parrys family said they were extremely proud of his selfless determination in helping the old, young and disadvantaged in Ukraine. They said: We never imagined we would be saying goodbye to Chris when he had such a full life ahead of him. He was a caring son, fantastic brother, a best friend to so many and a loving partner to Olga. They praised Mr Parry, originally from Truro in Cornwall, who they said had found himself drawn to Ukraine in March in its darkest hour at the start of the Russian invasion and helped those most in need, saving over 400 lives plus many abandoned animals. There has been intense fighting in Soledar (EPA) In a statement, Mr Bagshaws family said last month: Andrew selflessly took many personal risks and saved many lives; we love him and are very proud indeed of what he did. The world needs to be strong and stand with Ukraine, giving them the military support they need now, and help to rebuild their shattered country after the war. It comes as prime minister Rishi Sunak told president Volodymyr Zelensky that he is determined to ensure Britain's promised military aid reaches Ukraine as quicky as possible. In a call on Saturday, he said that Ukrainian troops in the UK have begun training this week on Challenger 2 main battle tanks, which Britain has agreed to supply to the government in Kyiv. A Downing Street spokesman said: Both leaders agreed that it was vital that international partners accelerated their assistance to Ukraine to help seize the opportunity to push Russian forces back, as well as looking at how they could support the long-term capability of Ukraine's armed forces. The greatest weapon in Ukraine's arsenal was the collective international unity in support of Ukraine, the leaders agreed. Authorities on Friday described the killing of a Selma police officer as happening before the officer had a chance to react, and said he was essentially executed. Officer Gonzalo Carrasco Jr. was killed Tuesday while approaching a man, according to Fresno County Sheriff John Zanoni. Carrasco, a 23-year-old native of Reedley, had been an officer since May 2021 and had a baby on the way. Carrasco was on a routine patrol in a police car about 11:52 a.m. Tuesday in a residential Selma neighborhood west of Highway 99, Zanoni said. As Carrasco approached a man whom police have said was 24-year-old Nathaniel Dixon, a felon on probation the officer and the man spoke briefly, Zanoni said. Carrasco turned his car around and as he passed the man again, a homeowner told the officer that Dixon did not belong on the property. (Dixon) was trying to go into that yard like he lived at that house, Zanoni said. Once Carrasco got out of his vehicle, I believe thats when Dixon realized he got me. The officer got out of his cruiser and approached Dixon before the man shot the officer multiple times with a .223 caliber style assault rifle ghost gun an illegally obtained gun that is purchased in parts before it is assembled, Zanoni said. California Gov. Gavin Newsom issued condolences Wednesday following the killing of Selma police officer Gonzalo Carrasco Jr., 24, who was shot to death Tuesday while in the line of duty. We believe we put together a very good case against the suspect, Nathaniel Dixon, regarding the senseless shooting and killing, he said. Dixon appeared in court Friday as he faces charges including first degree murder, but did not enter a plea before the arraignment was continued to a future date. Carrasco did not fire his weapon and investigators would not say Friday whether he was able to draw his weapon before he was shot. The officer was wearing protective equipment, Zanoni said. Dixon was a member of a Fresno-based gang and had a tattoo on his face that resembles a Fresno State Bulldog logo, but Zanoni stopped short of naming the gang. This individual was a convicted felon. He had no right to have that gun; he should have never had that gun, he said. Nathaniel Dixon, 23, was accused of the shooting death of a Selma police officer on Tuesday, Jan. 31, 2023, according to the Fresno County Sheriffs Office. Selma police Chief Rudy Alcaraz said the shooting happened so quickly that there wasnt a way to prevent the killing in the moment. We all agree there was nothing officer Carrasco could have done. He was essentially executed, he said. Political jabs between Gavin Newsom and Lisa Smittcamp The killing of the officer has sparked a verbal duel between California Gov. Gavin Newsom and Fresno County District Attorney Lisa Smittcamp over Dixons status on Assembly Bill 109 parole, which is commonly called AB 109 or prison realignment. Smittcamp has said AB 109, which Newsom and Democrats in the legislature have supported, allowed Dixon to be let out earlier than sentenced. Newsom said Smittcamp failed to use her prosecution power to charge Dixon with more of his earlier crimes. Carrasco was a 2016 graduate of Reedley High, and authorities said Friday his dream was to be a police officer. His parents are farmworkers. The Selma community has responded with grief over the death of Carrasco, holding multiple candlelight and prayer vigils. A photo of slain Selma officer Gonzalo Carrasco Jr. is seen at a curbside memorial along Pine Street Thursday evening, Feb 2, 2023 in Selma. Fresno County Sheriff John Zanoni announces an update on the killing of Selma police officer Gonzalo Carrasco Jr. at a press conference Friday, Feb 3, 2023 in Fresno. Fresno County District Attorney Lisa Smittcamp, with Selma Police Chief Rudy Alcaraz to the far right, releases an update on the killing of Selma police officer Gonzalo Carrasco Jr. at a press conference Friday, Feb 3, 2023 in Fresno. Selma Police Chief Rudy Alcaraz, center, flanked by Fresno Sheriff John Zanoni, left, and Fresno County District Attorney Lisa Smittcamp, right, releases an update on the killing of Selma police officer Gonzalo Carrasco Jr. at a press conference Friday, Feb 3, 2023 in Fresno. Fresno County District Attorney Lisa Smittcamp, center, flanked by Fresno County Sheriff John Zanoni, left, and Selma Police Chief Rudy Alcaraz, right, releases an update on the killing of Selma police officer Gonzalo Carrasco Jr. at a press conference Friday, Feb 3, 2023 in Fresno. Democratic National Committee member Manny Crespin of New Mexico reacts after a vote on the new early-primary calendar lineup Saturday in Philadelphia. (Matt Rourke / Associated Press) Democrats voted Saturday to allow South Carolina to hold the partys first presidential primary next year, ending nearly 50 years of Iowa and New Hampshire leading the partys nominating season. Under the new calendar, proposed based on recommendations from President Biden, candidates would face voters in South Carolina on Feb. 3, followed by Nevada and New Hampshire on Feb. 6, then Georgia and Michigan. But the new calendar faces additional hurdles, namely a lack of cooperation from Republican leaders in New Hampshire and Georgia. South Carolina committee members Lessie Price, left, and Trav Robertson vote for the new calendar lineup. (Matt Rourke / Associated Press) Party leaders praised the new calendar, saying it will elevate the voices of Black and Latino voters, and transform the early nominating process to better reflect the demographics of the Democratic Party. This calendar reflects the best of who we are as a nation and it sends a powerful message, said Democratic National Committee Chairman Jaime Harrison. The Democratic Party looks like America, and so does this proposal. As suggested, the plan also allows Biden to reward South Carolina, where his first-place finish in the states 2020 Democratic primary helped revive his campaign after losses in Iowa and New Hampshire. Biden has hinted that he plans to seek reelection. During a speech Friday to Democratic National Committee members he laid out his administrations accomplishments and said theres more work to do. Let me ask you a simple question: Are you with me? he said, prompting chants of Four more years! President Biden with Vice President Kamala Harris as he prepares to speak at the Democratic National Committee winter meeting Friday in Philadelphia. (Patrick Semansky / Associated Press) The president isnt likely to face a competitive primary challenge. Some Democrats who might have run against him, including California Gov. Gavin Newsom and Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) have said they wont get in the race if Biden runs. The proposal to change the primary calendar was first advanced by the partys Rules and Bylaws Committee in December, before coming to a vote before the full party committee at its winter meeting in Philadelphia. The plan passed by voice vote with overwhelming support and only a handful of nay votes. Some have criticized Biden for handpicking the states in which hed need to campaign to seek reelection. Supporters of the president say now ahead of what could be an uneventful primary is the best time to overhaul the schedule. Whether the presidential primary calendar plays out the way Democrats intend it to is another matter. Republicans have already selected Iowa, New Hampshire, South Carolina and Nevada to hold their early elections. Republican leaders in both New Hampshire and Georgia have said they wont hold separate primaries. Under Democratic Party rules, no state or territory is allowed to hold a presidential nominating contest before March unless granted a waiver by the national party. For nearly 50 years, Iowa and New Hampshire have held the first caucus and primary. In 2008, Nevada and South Carolina were added to the early window. In recent cycles, the waiver process was straightforward for the traditional early states, despite longstanding complaints about Iowas complex caucus system and its continued elevated status alongside New Hampshire. Iowas fate was likely sealed in 2020, when state Democrats rolled out a buggy app and failed to deliver election results on time. Saturdays vote means Iowa Democrats will have to hold their caucus no earlier than March to avoid sanctions from the national party. New Hampshire hasnt fared much better. Technically, New Hampshire was demoted from the first primary state to tie for second with Nevada, but only if Republican Gov. Chris Sununu and the states GOP-led Legislature decide to expand mail voting and repeal a state law that protects the coveted status of the states presidential primary. Sununu, who is considering a presidential run, has made clear he has no intention of helping Democrats implement their calendar. Were going first no matter what, he told USA Today last month, accusing the Democratic Party of trying to manipulate the system to help Biden. New Hampshire Democrats have defended their traditional role in the primaries, saying the states small size, cheap media markets and engaged voters make it an ideal place for candidates to try their luck. But they have also pointed to their inability to change state law. Were in an impossible, no-win position, New Hampshire Democratic Party Chair Raymond Buckley told reporters Friday. We cannot unilaterally change state law. Raymond Buckley, chair of the Democratic Party of New Hampshire, speaks before the vote on the new calendar. (Matt Rourke / Associated Press) Buckley said New Hampshire Democrats are ready to face whatever punishment the national party places on the state, as long as it doesnt hurt their candidates running in less prominent races next year. Since 1975, state law in New Hampshire has required its secretary of state to set the date of the presidential primary one week before any similar contest meaning after the Iowa caucus, but before contests held in any other primary states. The influence of that law, however, is limited to the Granite State. Democratic National Committee members say the party, not individual states, controls the nominating contest. Saturdays vote is seen as a step toward making the nominating process more accessible to other states. States were able to apply for the early window spots and will have a chance to apply to lead the calendar in the 2028 presidential cycle as well. Heres the reality: No one state should have a lock on going first, said Democratic Rep. Debbie Dingell of Michigan. Democrats debated the proposal for about an hour. Party members from Iowa and New Hampshire opposed the new schedule, warning it would make things harder for Democrats heading into the 2024 general election. Scott Brennan, a DNC committee member from Iowa, said that advancing the proposal would introduce uncertainty into the process. New Hampshire missed deadlines last month to meet the terms of its waiver, as did Georgia, where state leaders have not moved up the states primary. The partys Rules and Bylaws Committee voted last week to give the states until June 3 to make progress, which is unlikely. We can vote on this calendar, we can approve this calendar, but we will leave here with absolutely nothing settled, Brennan said. New Hampshire Democrats have warned that the party's new calendar gives Republicans in their state an opportunity to criticize Democrats and make inroads with independents in a competitive state. They have frequently noted that former Vice President Al Gore would have won the 2000 presidential election had he not lost New Hampshire by a few thousand votes. This is not, in this moment, about New Hampshires history or our pride, this is about state laws that we cannot unilaterally change, said Joanne Dowdell, a DNC member from New Hampshire who serves on the Rules and Bylaws Committee. Its about the unintended consequences the DNCs actions could have on President Bidens reelection campaign. Iowa and New Hampshire party members were the only ones to speak against the proposal, which was praised by the leaders of the states that advanced, the DNC's Southern Caucus and others. Artie Blanco, a Rules and Bylaws Committee member from Nevada, said Democratic voters in her state a labor union stronghold and the third most racially diverse state in the country represent the future of the party. You cant say youre for elevating this coalitions voice, but still ask us to wait our turn, Blanco said. Im done waiting. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. An Iowa care centre mistakenly sent a still-live resident to a funeral home inside a body bag, according to authorities. When a worker unzipped the body bag they saw the womans chest moving and she suddenly gasped for air, state inspectors reported. First responders were called to the Ankeny Funeral Home and Crematory on 3 January and found she was breathing and still had a pulse. She was taken to the hospital and then back to the Glen Oaks Alzheimers Special Care Center in Urbandale where she died two days later her surrounded by her family. The facility has now been fined $10,000 by the state. The states report says that an employee at the facility checked on the resident and found that she had no pulse or signs of breathing. The worker told inspectors that she felt the resident had passed away. The nurse said that believing the resident was dead she notified the family and the funeral home was notified, KCCI reported. When the funeral home director arrived at the facility the woman was placed on a gurney and inside a cloth body bag and it was zipped shut. She was then transferred to the funeral home where the mistake was discovered. State records say that the woman was admitted to Glen Oaks in December 2021, with end-stage, early-onset dementia, anxiety and depression. It was cited by the state for failing to treat residents with dignity and failing to provide appropriate care and services for residents at the end of life. We have been in close communication with the family of the resident, and we just completed an investigation by the Department of Inspections and Appeals regarding the matter. We care deeply for our residents and remain fully committed to supporting their end-of-life care, Lisa Eastman, Executive Director of Glen Oaks told KCCI. All employees undergo regular training so they can best support end-of-life care and the death of our residents. A mafia hitman who had been on the run for 16 years was arrested Thursday in France, where he had been working as a pizza chef. Edgardo Greco, 63, who authorities say has links to Italys notorious ndrangheta crime group and was convicted of killing two people in the early 1990s, was arrested by French police in the city of Saint-Etienne in southeastern France. Described as a dangerous fugitive, Greco has been sentenced to life in prison for the murders of brothers Stefano and Giuseppe Bartolomeo in 1991. Italian police said in a statement that the pair were beaten to death with a metal bar in a fish shop in Calabria. Their bodies were made to disappear and never found again, police said. Greco is also accused of attempted murder in a separate case. Italian news agency ANSA said Greco had been working as a pizza chef in an Italian restaurant in France under an assumed identity. Italian police released a picture of Greco in a chefs white coat stood in what appears to be a restaurant kitchen. Interpol, the international policing agency which coordinated the case with French and Italian law enforcement, said Grecos crimes were linked to the mafia wars of the early 1990s between the Pino Sena and Perna Pranno organized crime gangs in the Cosenza region of southern Italy. He was deemed responsible for the two deaths during the so-called Maxi Trial, which prosecuted and convicted hundreds of mafia operatives from 1986 to 1992. Police said he evaded the execution of a precautionary prison order related to that trial in 2006. Catanzaro Public Prosecutors Office in southern Italy issued a European Arrest Warrant for Greco after he escaped police custody in October 2006. An Interpol statement said French police, with help from Italian colleagues, arrested Edgardo Greco in Saint-Etienne, central France. (Interpol / AP) Thursdays arrest comes two weeks after Italian police arrested mafia boss Matteo Messina Denaro, who also had links to ndrangheta and spent decades on the run as Italys most-wanted man. No matter how hard fugitives try to slip into a quiet life abroad, they cannot evade justice forever. Dedicated officers around the world will always ensure that justice is served, Matteo Piantedosi, Italys interior minister, said in a statement. The capture of Edgardo Greco brings to justice one of the worst Italian criminals and demonstrates, for the umpteenth time, the capabilities and commitment of our police forces, which on this occasion have operated in collaboration with the French authorities, he said. The operation was part of Interpols I-CAN project, an Italian-funded initiative launched in 2020 to target the ndrangheta crime group. Interpol says it has helped arrested dozens of fugitives across the world. The ndrangheta has long been a major concern of Italian authorities. It is considered the most dangerous and powerful Italian crime group, with global links and strong ties to the trade in South American cocaine bound for Europe. Some 350 alleged 'ndrangheta members appeared in court in Calabria in southern Italy in another mass trial in 2021. This story originally appeared on NBCNews.com. This article was originally published on TODAY.com A balloon, believed by U.S. authorities to be used for surveillance by China, flies at high altitude in the distance (mid-background, left), as seen from Laurel, Montana, U.S. Feb. 1, in this screen grab obtained from social media video. Reuters-Yonhap A Chinese spy balloon has been spotted over Latin America, the Pentagon said Friday, a day after a similar craft was seen in U.S. skies that prompted the scrapping of a rare trip to Beijing by U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken. The Pentagon said the first balloon was now heading eastwards over the central United States, adding it was not being shot down for safety reasons. Later Friday, Pentagon spokesman Pat Ryder said: "We are seeing reports of a balloon transiting Latin America." "We now assess it is another Chinese surveillance balloon," he added, without specifying its exact location. Moments before Blinken's decision to cancel his trip aimed at easing tensions between the two countries China issued a rare statement of regret over the first balloon and blamed winds for diverting what it called a civilian airship into U.S. airspace. But President Joe Biden's administration described it as a maneuverable "surveillance balloon." With the rival Republican Party already on the offensive, Blinken postponed a two-day visit that was to have started Sunday. In a telephone call with senior Chinese official Wang Yi, Blinken said he "made clear that the presence of this surveillance balloon in U.S. airspace is a clear violation of U.S. sovereignty and international law, that it's an irresponsible act." Blinken said, however, that he told Wang that "the United States is committed to diplomatic engagement with China and that I plan to visit Beijing when conditions allow." "The first step is getting the surveillance asset out of our airspace. That's what we're focused on," Blinken told reporters. According to Chinese state news agency Xinhua, Wang said the two discussed the incident "in a calm and professional manner." "China is a responsible country and has always strictly abided by international law," Xinhua quoted Wang as telling Blinken. "We do not accept any groundless speculation and hype," he said, calling both sides to "avoid misjudgments and manage divergence." Blinken would have been the first top U.S. diplomat to visit China since October 2018, signaling a thaw following intense friction under former President Donald Trump. Last month, Blinken said he would use the trip to help establish "guardrails" to prevent the relationship from escalating into all-out conflict. The North Carolina Supreme Court, in 5-2 decisions split along ideological lines, agreed Friday to rehear two important voting rights cases after Republican lawmakers asked the high court to reconsider its previous rulings. In separate orders published Friday evening, the Supreme Court said it would hold new hearings next month on the two cases, one of them involving the constitutionality of political maps drawn by GOP lawmakers last year, and the other involving the constitutionality of the states voter ID law. The court instructed parties in both cases to file additional legal briefs addressing specific questions before both cases are reheard on March 14. Republican Justice Trey Allen, writing for the majority in both cases, said earlier precedent established that the court could rehear a recently issued ruling if the petitioner asking for the case to be reheard could make a satisfactory showing that the opinion may be erroneous. Democratic justices Anita Earls and Michael Morgan both objected to the courts decisions to rehear the cases. Earls wrote that the decision to rehear the gerrymandering case constituted a radical break with 205 years of history, while Morgan wrote that there was no aspect of the arguments made by GOP lawmakers to rehear the voter ID case that met the courts historically and purposely high standards for rehearing a case. GOP candidates won both Supreme Court races on the ballot in November, taking the court from a 4-3 Democratic majority to a 5-2 GOP majority. In December, before the new justices took their seats, the court ruled that the 2018 voter ID law passed by the GOP-controlled legislature was unconstitutional, because it had deliberately been written to harm Black voters more than white voters. The court also reviewed maps drawn by Republican lawmakers for use in legislative elections in 2022, and concluded that the state Senate map was unconstitutional and needed to be redrawn. The court allowed the state House map to be continue to be used. In January, attorneys for Republican leaders of the legislature asked the court, now consisting of a Republican majority, to rehear both cases and correct errors in the courts previous rulings. At the time, GOP House Speaker Tim Moore said North Carolina voters sent a message on Election Day and had clearly rejected the judicial activism of the outgoing majority. Advocates who challenged the Republican-drawn maps called the GOP petition for the gerrymandering case to be reheard frivolous. Their petition is nothing more than a cynical attack on judicial independence, our states Constitution, and North Carolinians long-held freedoms, Bob Phillips, executive director of Common Cause North Carolina, said then. Common Cause asked the court to dismiss the request from Republicans for the case to be reheard, but in Fridays order, the court dismissed the filing from the group, saying it grossly violates appellate rules. Responding to the courts decision Friday, Hilary Harris Klein, senior counsel for voting rights at the Southern Coalition for Social Justice, said the organization was disappointed the court had given GOP lawmakers a chance to argue the case again. We maintain that this is politically motivated and outside the scope of whats permitted by the Constitution, Klein said. However, we look forward to arguing this case again before the Court and showing what already has been captured on the record. For more North Carolina government and politics news, subscribe to the Under the Dome politics newsletter from The News & Observer and the NC Insider and follow our weekly Under the Dome podcast at campsite.bio/underthedome or wherever you get your podcasts. WASHINGTON A key House Republican has subpoenaed the FBI and Education Department for documents dealing with alleged counterterrorism investigations of parents protesting at school board meetings, which federal authorities have disputed. The subpoenas Friday from Rep. Jim Jordan of Ohio, who is head of the Judiciary subcommittee on the weaponization of the federal government, went to FBI Director Christopher Wray and Education Secretary Miguel Cardona for information stemming from a 2021 memo from Attorney General Merrick Garland. The subpoenas are part of wide-ranging investigations House Republicans have opened into the Biden administration. Ian Sams, a White House spokesperson, said Jordan "is rushing to fire off subpoenas" despite agencies responding in good faith to his requests. "These subpoenas make crystal clear that extreme House Republicans have no interest in working together with the Biden Administration on behalf of the American people and every interest in staging political stunts," Sams said. Garland's memo directed the FBI to address "threats of violence against school administrators, board members, teachers, and staff" after some groups aired concerns regarding the safety of public schools. Stay in the conversation on politics: Sign up for the OnPolitics newsletter Rep. Jim Jordan, R-Ohio, on Jan. 25. But Jordan and other Republicans received whistleblower information that the FBI was using a specific "threat tag" to track potential investigations. Jordan seeks FBI documents about opening investigations into parents who speak on behalf of their children at school board meetings. The subpoenas followed more than 100 letters Judiciary Committee Republicans sent to Biden administration officials asking about using counterterrorism resources against parents, according to the committee. The committee set a March 1 deadline for the documents. Attorney General Merrick Garland and FBI Director Christopher Wray on Jan. 27. The FBI issued a statement that said it is actively working to respond to congressional requests for information with the voluntary production of documents. The FBI said Wray and other officials have stated clearly on numerous occasions the agency "has never been in the business of investigating speech or policing speech at school board meetings or anywhere else, and we never will be." "Our focus is and always will be on protecting people from violence and threats of violence," the FBI statement said. "We are fully committed to preserving and protecting First Amendment rights including the right to free speech. Attempts to further any political narrative will not change those facts." Roy Loewenstein, an Education Department spokesman, said the department responded to Jordan's letter earlier this week. "The Department remains committed to responding to the House Judiciary Committees requests in a manner consistent with longstanding Executive Branch policy," he said. Education Secretary Miguel Cardona Garland and Wray and each testified at congressional hearings about the school board memo, disputing the Republican interpretation of the memo. Garland said he was concerned about violence and threats of violence, offering federal assistance to local authorities if necessary. "We did not sic the FBI on parents," Garland told the Senate Judiciary Committee on Oct. 27, 2021. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Rep. Jim Jordan subpoenas FBI, Education Dept over school board memo A second Chinese spy balloon has been spotted, this time in the skies over Latin America, according to the Pentagon. It is unclear exactly which country in the region the balloon is hovering over but it does not appear as if it is headed towards the United States, according to CNN. We are seeing reports of a balloon transiting Latin America. We now assess it is another Chinese surveillance balloon, Pentagon press secretary Brig Gen Patrick Ryder said in a statement to the news network. The latest development came a day after US officials admitted it was tracking the spy balloon across the country and said it is expected to remain in US airspace for the next few days. The Pentagon has said it does not currently pose a threat and that it advised the White House to not shoot it down, despite F-22 fighter jets being scrambled over Montana when it was spotted on Wednesday. The balloon was filmed and photographed by residents of Billings, Montana, a little over 200 miles from a nuclear missile silo field at Malmstrom Air Force Base. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has also postponed his trip to China this weekend because of the incident. The Chinese side regrets the unintended entry of the airship into US airspace due to force majeure, the Chinese foreign ministry said in a statement, using a legal term used to describe events beyond ones control. The balloon was at an altitude of around 60,000 ft above the US and moving east on Friday, said Brig Gen Pat Ryder. He told reporters that the balloon has the ability to manoeuvre and denied Chinese government claims that it was used for civilian research. While we wont get into specifics in regards to the exact location, I can tell you that the balloon continues to move eastward and is currently over the centre of the continental United States, he said. We currently assess that the balloon does not present a military or physical threat to people on the ground at this time, and will continue to monitor and review options. Feb. 5 is National Weatherperson's Day, which is a day to recognize the people who collectively provide Americans with the best weather, water and climate forecasts. Weather and beer have always been closely tied together. Many breweries around the world produce seasonal beers that closely match the weather. From dark winter warmers during the cold months to crisp and light lagers during the warm summer months. Fall is one of the most popular times for seasonal beers as pumpkin, and spiced ales fill the shelves. This winter, there are many weather-inspired beers readily available to help you honor your favorite weatherperson. Here are a few selections that will round out the ultimate Weatherperson's Day six-pack. Just as dry January ends, Dogfish Head Craft Brewing is bringing February in like a lion with a new weather-centered brew called Citrus Squall. This revolutionary offering from the brewer in Milton, Delaware, is the "perfect storm" of a double golden ale and a Paloma cocktail. Citrus Squall combines the flavors of citrus from the hops in beer with grapefruit juice and lime of the popular Paloma cocktail. Dogfish Head Brewing, which also has its own distillery, is known for the enveloping pushing beers and cocktails. Dogfish founder Sam Calagione, an avid paddleboarder, follows weather forecasts closely before heading out on his paddleboard every morning. He said it's where he does his most creative thinking. "You don't want to get caught out there in the rain or when the water is rough, I've lost one too many iPhones to the Lewes-Rehoboth Canal," Calagione said. Cold IPAs are a relatively new style to hit the craft beer market. This style of IPA is fermented at much lower temperatures than a standard IPA, which makes them crisp and clean, much like a lager. Cold Front is brewed with Mosaic, Chinook and Amarillo hops, which gives a gust of pineapple, orange and grapefruit. It seems consumers are warming to the cold IPA due to them being more approachable and drinkable. This winter seasonal from Sierra Nevada, the brewery that practically invented the Pale Ale, is a double dry-hopped IPA. Powder Day will plow you over with tropical flavor. Hops are shoveled into this brew during the fermentation process, which is packed with fresh lupulin powder. So whether you are looking to hit the slopes or just hang by the fire, this hop-forward brew will go down easy. Six more weeks. Let's drink about it #GroundhogDay2023 pic.twitter.com/QThAEjyTXg Samuel Adams Beer (@SamuelAdamsBeer) February 2, 2023 This White Ale was introduced back in 2014 when most winter seasonals were darker beers. However, Cold Snap was light and citrusy, a departure from traditional winter releases. Samuel Adams founder Jim Koch said at the time he wanted a beer that would signify warmer days to come. Fast forward to 2023, when Cold Snap became the official beer of Groundhog Day. The brewery offered a free Cold Snap to all if Phil saw his shadow, predicting an early spring. It looks like that optimism for warmer weather continues with Cold Snap right into Weatherperson Day. This Winter IPA is a storm of hoppy citrus and pine notes and is a tribute to hop growers worldwide. Troegs also produces a Double Blizzard IPA for a little more adventurous winter beer drinkers. Troegs Independent Brewing, located in Hershey, Pennsylvania, has made a huge commitment to sustainability. The brewery supports local farmers when possible and recently installed 1,600 new solar panels, which provide up to 20% of its energy needs. Tornado Joe by BrewDog (Courtesy of BrewDog) We needed to include at least one non-alcoholic option on this list since it is one of the fastest-growing segments of the beer industry. Tornado Joe is a non-alcoholic coffee cream ale featuring Thunderkiss coffee (also weather-related). BrewDog brewed coarse ground and whole bean coffee to create a dark, rich coffee aroma and flavor, which sits alongside a light creamy vanilla sweetness. With only 36 calories per can, this NA brew is more health-conscious than typical full-strength ABV beers. Oddly enough, BrewDog first gained worldwide attention back in 2009 by brewing the world's strongest beer called Tactical Nuclear Penguin. Editor's note: Please drink responsibly and avoid consuming alcoholic beverages before getting behind the wheel. Want next-level safety, ad-free? Unlock advanced, hyperlocal severe weather alerts when you subscribe to Premium+ on the AccuWeather app.AccuWeather Alerts are prompted by our expert meteorologists who monitor and analyze dangerous weather risks 24/7 to keep you and your family safer. remaining of Thank you for reading! On your next view you will be asked to log in to your subscriber account or create an account and subscribepurchase a subscription to continue reading. Adam Apton, center, a lawyer representing Tesla shareholders in a class-action lawsuit against Elon Musk, speaks to reporters while leaving a federal courthouse in San Francisco, Feb. 3. AP-Yonhap A jury decided Friday that Elon Musk didn't defraud investors with his 2018 tweets about electric automaker Tesla in a proposed deal that quickly unraveled and raised questions about whether the billionaire had misled investors. The nine-member jury reached its verdict after less than two hours of deliberation following a three-week trial. It represents a major vindication for Musk, who spent about eight hours on the witness stand defending his motives for the August 2018 tweets at the center of the trial. Musk, 51, wasn't on hand for the brief reading of the verdict but he made a surprise appearance earlier Friday for closing arguments that drew starkly different portraits of him. Not long after the verdict came down, Musk took to Twitter the bully pulpit he now owns to celebrate. ''Thank goodness, the wisdom of the people has prevailed!'' Musk tweeted. Musk's decision to break away from his other responsibilities to sit in on the closing arguments even though he didn't have to be there may have had an impact on the jurors, said Michael Freedman, a former federal prosecutor who is now in private practice working for a law firm that has represented celebrities and business executives. ''It shows he has a presence,'' Freedman said. Nicholas Porritt, an attorney who represented aggrieved Tesla investors, said he was disappointed after urging the jurors in his closing arguments to rebuke Musk for reckless behavior that threatened to create ''anarchy." ''I don't think this is the kind of conduct we expect from a large public company,'' a downcast Porritt said after discussing the verdict with a few jurors who gathered to talk to him. ''People can draw their own conclusion on whether they think it's OK or not.'' During their discussion with Porritt, the jurors told them they found Musk's testimony that he believed he had lined up the money from Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund without a written commitment to be credible. They also expressed doubt about whether Musk's tweeting was the sole reason for the swings in Tesla's stock price during a 10-day period in August 2018 covered in the case. The trial pitted Tesla investors represented in a class-action lawsuit against Musk, who is CEO of both the electric automaker and the Twitter service he bought for $44 billion a few months ago. Shortly before boarding his private jet, Aug. 7, 2018, Musk tweeted that he had the financing to take Tesla private, even though it turned out he hadn't gotten an iron-clad commitment for a deal that would have cost $20 billion to $70 billion to pull off. A few hours later, Musk sent another tweet indicating that the deal was imminent. Musk's integrity was at stake at the trial as well part of a fortune that has established him as one of the world's richest people. He could have been saddled with a bill for billions of dollars in damages had the jury found him liable for the 2018 tweets that had already been deemed falsehoods by the judge presiding over the trial. That determination, made last year by U.S. District Judge Edward Chen, left the jury to decide whether Musk had been reckless with his tweeting and acted in a way that hurt Tesla shareholders. Elon Musk leaves a federal courthouse in San Francisco, Feb. 3. AP-Yonhap YEREVAN, FEBRUARY 12, ARMENPRESS. The Armenian Church paid homage to the troops on the occasion of the Feast of Saint Sarkis, the Armenian patron of youth and love revered as a martyr and military saint in the Armenian Apostolic Church. Before the ceremony, a prayer and blessing for the troops took place at the Saint Sarkis Cathedral in Yerevan, the seat of the Araratian Pontifical Diocese of the Armenian Apostolic Church. Pontifical Vicar Archbishop Navasard Kchoyan served a prayer for the fallen troops. The awarding ceremony took place at the chambers of the diocesan seat after the prayer. The archbishop said national love is what unites everyone at this sacramental moment. The love which can be described with one idea patriotism, fellowship and unanimity. Dear sons, you are the fearless protectors of our homeland, the bearers of that powerful spirit, and you serve your country and God with everyday devotion, you stand bravely and unwaveringly before the barbaric enemy. We are with you with our everyday prayers, with the many manifestations of our love and warmth of spirit. Always remember that an entire nation is encouraged by you every day, by your courage and unbreakable faith. We bow before your mothers, for giving birth to valorous men and the selfless devotion to the fatherland, the Archbishop said. At the ceremony, 20 of the finest active-duty servicemen were awarded with special awards and symbolic gifts of the diocese. This award means a lot to us and it obligates us to continue our mission of defending our homeland with honor, devotion and the strength of God, said Edgar Mkhitaryan, one of the servicemen being honored at the ceremony. YEREVAN, FEBRUARY 4, ARMENPRESS. A delegation of Armenian legislators participated in the commemorative events held in Volgograd, Russia on the 80th anniversary of the Battle of Stalingrad. The delegation included MP Vahe Ghalumyan, the Chair of the Parliamentary Committee on Territorial Administration, Local Self-Governance, Agriculture and Environment, MP Aleksey Sandikov and MP Matevos Asatryan. The delegation met with the Volgograd city Duma head Alexander Bloshkin and Governor of Volgograd Oblast Andrey Bocharov. Issues related to the development of Armenian-Russian relations in several sectors were discussed, the need for expanding inter-regional partnership between the two countries was emphasized, according to a read-out issued by the Armenian parliaments press service. The fact that in this difficult period of time the Armenian official delegation and Armenian community are represented at all events was highlighted. A meeting with the local Armenian community was also held. 30,000 Armenians participated in the Battle of Stalingrad. 10,000 of them were killed in action. More than half of the participants of the battles were awarded orders and medals. Armenian Ambassador to Russia Vagharshak Harutyunyan also participated in the commemorative events. The Opposition members were on their feet, shouting slogans and demanding an investigation into the Adani case NEW DELHI: Proceedings of both Houses of Parliament were adjourned for the day on Friday to reconvene on Monday as the Opposition members continued sloganeering, demanding a debate and a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) probe into the allegations of fraud against the Adani Group. It is learnt that Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired a meeting to discuss the proceedings of the ongoing Budget Session amid Opposition's uproar over the Adani issue. Several Union ministers and senior BJP leaders attended the meeting. The Opposition parties have been demanding a discussion and a probe into the allegations levelled in the Hindenburg's Adani report. A day after they unitedly led the charge against the government over the Adani issue, at least 16 Opposition parties met on Friday morning to coordinate their strategy in Parliament on the issue and decided to step up their attack on the government, demanding an immediate discussion. As soon as the Lok Sabha convened for the day, the Opposition members were on their feet, shouting slogans and demanding an investigation into the Adani case. Speaker Om Birla appealed to members to stop their protests and participate in the discussions. An unrelenting Opposition, however, continued their protests and sloganeering, forcing Birla to adjourn the proceedings till 2 pm. The Opposition members continued with their demand after the House met for the second time in the day. Amid sloganeering from the Opposition, Rajendra Agarwal, who was in the Chair, allowed the laying of parliamentary papers in the House. Agarwal urged the Opposition members to return to their seats and allow discussion on the "Motion of Thanks" on the President's address to a joint sitting of both Houses of Parliament. As protests continued, he adjourned the Lok Sabha for the day. Similar scenes played out in the Uppar House. First, the Rajya Sabha was adjourned till 2.30 pm and later for the day to reconvene on Monday. As the House met in the morning, Rajya Sabha chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar rejected the 15 adjournment notices filed by the members of several Opposition parties to discuss the Adani issue. As the uproar continued, the chairman adjourned the House till 2.30 pm. When the Rajya Sabha reconvened after lunch, the Opposition members continued their demand, while Dhankhar urged the members to maintain order and allow the House's business to be taken up. As the Opposition members continued their protest, the chairman adjourned the proceedings of the House for the day. Among the 16 parties whose leaders met in the chamber of the Leader of the Opposition in Rajya Sabha Mallikarjun Kharge are the Congress, DMK, SP, AAP, BRS, Shiv Sena (UBT), RJD, JDU, CPM, CPI, NCP, NC, IUML, Kerala Congress (Jose Mani), K.C. (Thomas) and the RSP. Congress leader Jairam Ramesh said that the Opposition's demand remains the same. "Only an independent investigation will save LIC, SBI and other institutions forced by the Prime Minister to invest in the Adani Group," Ramesh said. The Congress has been alleging that the investments made by the public sector undertakings LIC and SBI into the Adani group have been forced by the Prime Minister. The government, meanwhile, has not responded to the issue so far. The Adani Group stocks, where LIC is heavily invested, have lost over $100 billion in value since a tiny New York short seller came out with a damning report alleging financial and accounting fraud by the ports-to-energy conglomerate. The Adani Group has denied all charges and called the report malicious and full of lies. As the slide in Adani Group stocks continued in the markets on Friday, the Opposition said the rout has threatened the value of investments made by the LIC and public sector banks. Debating whether Russia wants to wage war on NATO, or the allies that want to destroy Russia, does little to alter the actual situation, in which both contenders are focused solely on the strategies and goals to be achieved. As the first anniversary of the invasion of Ukraine approaches, the feeling of a "reckoning" of the war grows stronger on both sides of the spectrum, in an escalation of announcements and strategies aimed at destroying the adversary, and in the contemptuous rejection of any peace talks. European and U.S. summits for relief to Ukraine are answered by renewed global threats from Russia, reviving the rhetoric of ridding the world of evil as Moscow's mission. The commemoration of 80 years since the Battle of Stalingrad, the name they would like to permanently restore to the southern capital of the Volga, was presided over by the more classical Putin, the one who sees the figure of Stalin as his main inspiration. The dates of the Great Patriotic War have been marking the agenda of Russian politics for a long time, even before the rise to power of the shadowy KGB agent himself. In 1995, the 50th anniversary, grandiose staging of the decisive fighting was held in all the squares of Russia's major metropolises until Soviet troops entered Berlin and occupied Hitler's bunker, finding him suicidal with Eva Braun. Every anniversary since then has reinforced the feeling of revenge, reminding us that the collapse of the USSR, "the greatest tragedy of the twentieth century" in Putin's own words, had to be reread in light of the unbreakable glory of Stalin's time. Each year the emphasis of wartime memory grew along with the restoration of orthodox political theology, in a fusion of church and state that finds precisely in the Army its most accomplished expression. In 2020, the 75th of Victory, the Armed Forces Cathedral was inaugurated, the temple where the liturgy evokes past wars and prophesies future ones, such as the current one in Ukraine. Putin tied the decisive turning point to that date, amending the constitution to remain perpetually in power, enshrining "traditional values" as a higher motivation than any norm of domestic and international law, and bending the last reluctance of Patriarch Kirill, who did not want to lose his churches in Ukraine. The reinterpretation of history exalts Russia's moral, religious and military superiority, rewriting even the history textbooks and overshadowing the dates of shame: the unraveling of the regime in 1991, the suicidal invasion of Afghanistan in 1979, the tragic civil war and famine of 1920, the shameful defeat against Japan in 1905, the catastrophic Crimean War of 1857, and so going all the way back to Ivan the Terrible's ill-fated 16th-century campaign against the Baltic countries, the prophecy of the current Ukrainian war. Then the apocalyptic dreams of the Third Rome and the Moscow Patriarchate collapsed, sucked into the seventeenth-century "Torbids" of the conflict with Poland and the schism between the True and Old Believers themselves, divided over how to proclaim the superiority of the Russian faith even over the Greek faith. Putin's ideology, and the psychology of the masses to whom it is inculcated, is "retroactive thinking," looking to the future to restore the past, and the end of a year of carnage and destruction is again seen as a beginning, the moment best suited to represent the soul of Russia, which proclaims victory when defeat becomes evident. Foreign Minister Lavrov denounced to Ria Novosti "the West's attempt to resolve the Russian question by inflicting such a defeat on Moscow that it cannot recover for decades." And so the war becomes universal, because "the whole of NATO is fighting against us, and the longer the range of the armaments supplied by the West to Kiev, the more we will have to move them away from our borders." The closer the defeat gets, the more comfortable Russia feels, threatening the end of the world, because "we don't have only conventional missiles," Putin reminded in Stalingrad. The speaker of the Duma, Vjaceslav Volodin, said in turn that "NATO is using Ukraine as a testing range for its weapons, and testing new ways of conducting war." Similar echoes reverberate from the opposite front, such as the statements of Rob Bauer, the Dutch head of NATO's war committee, who declared that "NATO is ready for confrontation with Russia," even though all Western leaders rule out a direct confrontation. Certainly the decisions on the delivery of state-of-the-art tanks, which has involved so many countries up to Germany itself, revives Russian accusations about the "NATO armies" not just supplying armaments, but sending "troops of well-paid mercenaries," as Lavrov reiterated. One of the few things people will remember about Liz Truss, Britain's last prime minister under Elizabeth II and first under Charles III, whose tenure was the shortest in U.K. history (44 days), is her speech in April last year on "global NATO." In it he rejected "the unfounded choice between Euro-Atlantic security and Indo-Pacific security ... in the modern world we need both," to reiterate that "we need a global NATO. By this I do not mean extending membership to those from other regions; I mean that NATO must have a global vision, ready to deal with global threats." Since the late 1990s, as feelings of sovereignist revenge grew, the now proverbial phrase has been repeated in Russia that "if we won't do it, NATO soldiers will." It also resonates in poetic form as in a 1997 Komsomolskaya Pravda headline, "remember children, if there were no Russian soldiers, you would be caressed by NATO soldiers." These slogans evoke many similar sayings from earlier times, in which "the Soviet soldier protects the holy land / from the mad plans of violent NATO." The threat of "the aggressive blockade of NATO, which wants to establish Anglo-American domination throughout the world," was taught in schools then, as it is renewed today. Putin's current speeches, after all, are nothing but reminiscences of elementary schools, whereby today "NATO is the refuge of the Nazis who have remained unpunished, who are thirsty for revenge," as he added in front of the monument to Stalin's glory. Yet Putin himself initially sought cordial relations with NATO. In 2000 he declared in an interview with the BBC that Russia was ready to join the Atlantic Alliance, after receiving NATO Secretary General George Robertson in Moscow. Even shortly before invading Ukraine, Putin recalled that during President Bill Clinton's visit to Moscow, he had asked how America viewed Russia's possible entry into NATO, but "the reaction to my question was very evasive." The final entry of the Baltic countries into NATO in 2004 convinced him to "radically reformulate military policy," ruling out any possible friendship and alliance between Russia and the West. The "new policy" was laid out in the famous speech at the Munich Security Summit in 2007, and in 2010 NATO was officially declared "the main military threat to Russia's security." While in the 1990s Russia, while remaining outside the Alliance, was considered by NATO to be the "crucial partner" in "reinforcing the positive changes of these years," i.e., the end of the Cold War, today it is defined as "the most consistent and direct threat to the security of allies, peace and stability of the entire Euro-Atlantic region," leaving China in second place, while "international terrorism" has dropped to third place on the podium of "NATO's enemies." The revival of the blame game, after a year of war in Ukraine, by now has been relegated to TV talk shows. Debating whether Russia wants to wage war on NATO, or the allies that want to destroy Russia, does little to alter the actual situation, in which both contenders are focused solely on the strategies and goals to be achieved.. And indeed, there is no "NATO army" or battalions of "NATO soldiers," an image that Russia needs in order to represent the single, global enemy. There are the soldiers and armies of Lithuania, Poland, Germany, the United States, and so on: allies re-discussing the rules of their mutual commitments, while at the same time seeking to arm and reorganize themselves according to their own needs, in a war framework destined to profoundly alter relations between countries of every alliance and latitude, on every continent, in the long years to come and regardless of the outcomes of the Ukrainian conflict. For years now, Pope Francis has been warning about the risks of "piecemeal World War III," or larger portions as it has now become. The peace called for must be built by going through wars and tragedies, by piecing together a world that is really falling apart. In 1638 the great Flemish artist Pieter Paul Rubens painted a canvas on the Consequences of War, after the terrible years of the Thirty Years' War and the English Civil War, while traveling from court to court as a diplomat. Europe is dressed in mourning, her dress in tatters, begging for divine help; Venus, goddess of love, tries to dissuade her lover Mars, god of war, but he is challenged by Discord, an unstoppable Fury who drags along the monsters of Plague and Famine. Mars' war tramples and destroys the Arts and Charity of all the Muses, pointing to the madness that annihilates all humanity and all its moral and material heritage. A four-hundred-year-old pacifist message implying the need to rebuild the world from the ground up, the task of every age in history. RUSSIAN WORLD IS THE ASIANEWS NEWSLETTER DEDICATED TO RUSSIA. WOULD YOU LIKE TO RECEIVE IT EVERY SATURDAY IN YOUR E-MAIL? TO SUBSCRIBE, CLICK HERE by Melani Manel Perera The Catholic Church and student associations protest the spending of 200 million rupees on the ceremony. An activist released in recent days denounced police violence. Cardinal Ranjith: "Citizens prisoners of poverty and brutal dictatorship." Colombo (AsiaNews) - Sri Lanka's 75th independence anniversary celebrations, the first since President Ranil Wickremesinghe was chosen to lead the government, were held today at Galle Face Green urban park. However, the local church objected and criticized the exorbitant costs spent on the ceremony, while police violently suppressed demonstrations by activists. "Our 75th anniversary of independence from British colonial rule falls at an extremely critical and challenging time for the country," Wickremesinghe stressed in his message to the nation. "It is a decisive moment. But it represents an opportunity for us not only to review our strengths and achievements as a nation, but also to correct our mistakes and failures." Sri Lanka continues to face its worst economic crisis since independence with the exchange rate against the U.S. dollar down from 182 to 360 rupees. The Catholic Church said Sri Lankan citizens "have become prisoners of poverty and a brutal dictatorship." The Archbishop of Colombo, Cardinal Malcolm Ranjith, issued a statement saying that "politicians have failed to find practical solutions to the crisis. A government that has no money to bring medicine to the country spends 200 million rupees (500 thousand euros) to celebrate independence with great pride." "We need to reflect on how the country is heading toward misery because of selfish and power-hungry government leaders who have led our country for the past 75 years," the statement continued. The Conference of Major Religious Superiors of Sri Lanka (Cmrs) staged a brief silent protest this morning in front of the Center for Society and Religion (Csr) where they displayed a banner reading "Where is freedom? Freedom does not belong to politicians but to citizens." P. Rohan De Silva, director of Csr, said that "after looting everything, after destroying everything, how come only freedom remains? We oppose this ceremony that cost 200 million rupees." Last night Sri Lankan police, along with the riot unit, attacked protesters who were peacefully protesting in accordance with the principles of satyagraha, the method of political opposition advocated by Gandhi. "In front of the Maradana Elphinstone Theater, we sat on the ground with the children in the afternoon but in the night after 10 p.m. we were severely attacked with water cannons and tear gas. We sustained injuries," several people present at the demonstration told AsiaNews. Activists were clubbed away, and some young people engaged in satyagraha were chased and beaten. One woman and three men were arrested. They also said one of them is in critical condition and has not been given medical treatment so far, and lawyers have not been allowed to contact them for information. "I have seen many videos and they all show police attacking peaceful protesters. Even when the protesters run away, they chase them and attack them. It is clear that the goal is not only to disperse, but to punish. The aggression and brutality is evident. Under Sri Lankan law, this is torture," explained Ambika Sathkunanathan, a human rights activist and one of the former commissioners of the Sri Lanka Human Rights Commission. Wasantha Mudalige, president of the Inter-University Student Federation (Iusf), who was released in recent days after 167 days of detention, also leveled charges against the Sri Lankan police, saying the goal was probably to keep them imprisoned longer or kill them. Mudalige was blindfolded with a cloth and taken to the riverbank near the Nawagamuwa Devalaya outside the capital Colombo. He revealed that one of the officers said over the phone, "Sir, we have arrived at the scene. What should we do now?" The activist was released Jan. 31 under the Prevention of Terrorism Act and granted bail for three other cases. by Guido Alberto Casanova The South Korean Court of Appeal in Daejeon overturned an earlier verdict: the artifact must return to the Japanese temple on Tsushima Island. Public opinion is divided over the decision. The Bodhisattva in question had been made in Korea but stolen in Japan Seoul (AsiaNews) - South Korea's Daejeon Court of Appeals has issued a ruling on the theft of a Buddhist statue that was produced in Korea but stolen in Japan, overturning an earlier verdict and underscoring how difficult relations between the two Asian neighbors can be. The distrust is mutual, feeding on an aversion and resentment that periodically resurface especially when it comes to issues of cultural identity such as the one the Daejeon court had to adjudicate. The affair dates back to 2012, when South Korean thieves stole some works of great artistic value from the Kannon Buddhist temple, located on the Japanese island of Tsushima. Intending to resell them in Korea, they smuggled them back into the country, but police in Seoul managed to arrest them and confiscate the artifacts. While some of them were returned, the return of the statue of a Bodhisattva was blocked by the Buseok Temple, which claimed its original ownership. The statue in fact dates back to 1330 and was produced by the South Korean temple itself, located in Seosan, about 100 kilometers southwest of Seoul. According to Buseok, the statue had been commandeered as loot by Japanese pirates who raided the coast of Korea until finally arriving at the Kannon temple in Tsushima during the first half of the 16th century. In 2016, the South Korean Buddhist temple, supported by citizen collectives, had petitioned the Seoul government not to return the statue to Japanese authorities and instead acknowledge its ownership to the Buseok temple. The following year a district court had agreed with the South Korean temple, generating sparks between the two countries. The Daejeon Court of Appeals in recent days, however, overturned the first instance ruling recognizing ownership to the South Korean temple. While pointing out that the statue most likely arrived in Japan illegally, the judges found that there is no concrete evidence that today's Buseok temple is also the one that originally owned the statue. The court also awarded ownership to the Kannon temple because for some 60 years, beginning in 1953, when the Japanese temple was legally registered, the statue remained on display "openly and peacefully"-this would make the Japanese temple the rightful owner by usucaption. In South Korea, where there is still strong anti-Japanese sentiment dating back to the days of colonization during the last century, public opinion is divided on whether to return the statue to Japan. Buseok Temple's lawyer said an appeal will be filed, while the head of the South Korean Civil and Religious Committee for the return of the statue said that "today's ruling is difficult to understand and lacks legal logic." Sekko Tanaka, former abbot of the Japanese temple, on the other hand, said he was satisfied but expressed regret that what is essentially a simple case of theft has dragged on for more than a decade. Today's headlines: university professor who shredded his qualifications on live TV jailed in Afghanistan, while Iranian regime releases filmmaker Jafar Panahi; The Indian state of Assam began a campaign of arrests against child marriages; Uzbekistan removes advertisement referring to car as "second wife". US - CHINA. China has called on the U.S. government to remain calm and handle mutual diplomatic relations with "cool heads," after the Pentagon has spotted a second spy balloon over Latin America, following the one discovered over Montana yesterday. Meanwhile, Secretary of State, Antony Blinken, has postponed his trip to China, while Beijing has reported that these are meteorological probes, a version, however, that does not convince American authorities, who have not yet shot down the object for fear of falling debris. SINGAPORE - MALAYSIA An investigation by Channel News Asia has revealed that getting cheap pets or exotics in Singapore is simply a matter of crossing the border into Malaysia, although this type of trade-which skips the controls provided by normal import channels-is illegal. Since 2018, at least 60 cases of animal smuggling have been recorded by Singaporean authorities, although after the pandemic, demand for pets began to decline. AFGHANISTAN The Taliban arrested university professor Ismail Mashal, who had advocated for Afghan women's right to education and was distributing books on the street to people. A spokesman for the authorities accused him of working against the Taliban administration. Last month, Mashal had torn up his university degrees on live television in protest of Taliban bans on women. INDIA Police in the eastern state of Assam have arrested 1,800 people accused of intermarrying or marrying underage girls. The campaign had been announced in late January by the state's prime minister, Himanta Biswa Sarma. He reported yesterday that more than 4,000 cases of early marriages had been registered, most in Muslim areas, but assured that no particular community would be targeted. IRAN Filmmaker Jafar Panahi was released on bail from the notorious Evin prison two days after starting a hunger strike. Already repeatedly opposed to the regime, some analysts say it is a move to keep him from becoming a symbol of the protests like other dissidents. A winner of numerous international film awards, he had been arrested in July last year for protesting the imprisonment of two other colleagues, who were themselves arrested for posting on social media about the collapse of a 10-story building in the city of Abadan in which more than 40 people died. RUSSIA Relatives of Russian soldiers killed in Ukraine say they are unable to receive full information about them, ranging from certifiction of death, the recognition and dispatch of the bodies, despite the fact that they are marked as "presumed dead" on army records, and even with DNA testing there are no definitive results. UZBEKISTAN Uzbekistan's Competition and Consumer Rights Committee ordered the removal of billboards of the Mobile Retail (Elmakon) company advertising car accessories, in which the slogan "Take care of your second wife" was deemed "unethical and inappropriate," contradicting traditional ethical norms of Uzbek society. In January, we signed an MoU between Azerbaijan and Hungary on gas supplies. So, this further expands the number of countries, and members of our team, said President Ilham Aliyev as he addressed the 9th Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council Ministerial Meeting and the 1st Green Energy Advisory Council Ministerial meeting held in Baku. The president stressed the closer ties between Azerbaijan and all cooperating countries. He praised the effective presidency of the European Commission, which has had a positive impact on cooperation related to natural gas, electricity, hydrogen, and green hydrogen. And all that is due to, first, the close political relationship between the countries involved. Active coordination and efficient chairmanship by the European Commission and Azerbaijan of our efforts, and also, is a reflection of the energy dialogue, which has started and was formalized between the European Union and Azerbaijan, which embraces natural gas, electricity, hydrogen, green hydrogen. I think this is a very unique, and very efficient format for our cooperation, the president added. China's then foreign minister Wang Yi and U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken meet in Nusa Dua on the Indonesian island of Bali, July 9, 2022. AFP-Yonhap China's top diplomat, Wang Yi, has called for speculation and misjudgment to be avoided after an "accidental incident" the detection of a suspected Chinese surveillance balloon over the United States led to the postponement of U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken's trip to China. Wang, a member of the Communist Party Central Committee's Politburo, told Blinken in a phone conversation late Friday that both nations had communicated on how to handle the latest controversy in a calm and professional manner. "China is a responsible country and has always strictly abided by international law. We do not accept any groundless speculation and hype," Wang was quoted as saying in a foreign ministry statement issued Saturday. "In the face of unexpected situations, what both parties need to do is to maintain concentration, communicate in a timely manner, avoid misjudgments, and manage and control differences." Blinken said Friday that he would postpone his trip to China, which had been scheduled for Sunday and Monday. Amid reports of a Blinken-Xi meeting, the U.S. focused on avoiding danger Blinken said he told Wang "that the presence of this surveillance balloon in U.S. airspace is a clear violation of U.S. sovereignty and international law ... and that the PRC decision to take this action on the eve of my planned visit is detrimental to the substantive discussions that we were prepared to have." Photo: Voltari Marine Electric kWh kW Photo: Voltari Marine Electric Voltari. Few people have heard this name, and even fewer have witnessed the magic they bring to the boating industry. Nonetheless, once you see the same results that I have, you may very well be finding yourself tracking down this crew and asking them to build you your very own Voltari 260, a design that has resulted from a lifetime of passion and research and development.The mind behind it all is Cam Heaps, CEO and Founder of Voltari, but he's also the Founder of another name in the boating world, Carbon Marine, and even a Co-Founder of Pantera Boats. However, it wasn't until the acquisition of LTS Marine that Voltari Power, now Voltari Marine Electric, was officially born. This may have been the final piece of the puzzle because a year or so after this venture, I got an e-mail telling me all about how this Fort Lauderdale-based crew operating out of Canada just completed a crossing of the Gulf Stream Key Largo to Bimini, Bahamas - "marking the first and longest overseas distance an electric vehicle (EV) has successfully completed."So, what is the result of all those years working towards a dream? Well, this may be one of the best results in terms of technology and green power. Sure, the whole process of collecting lithium, packing it into batteries, and producing carbon fiber and the resins it needs to solidify may not result from the greenest of practices, but that's not what we're talking about here. This time around, we're talking about how we can keep all the fun and speed of a powerboat without the chemical and phonic emissions we've often experienced.Now, the problem with building a fast and electric boat is that you need to supply it with the necessary energy to run motors and all that, and in the case of the 260, that power is supplied by 142of lithium-ion, and that means a whole lot of extra weight. So, to bring the 260's heft as low to baseline as possible, carbon fiber is the material chosen to craft each hull.With that aspect out of the way, let's see what all that power feeds. In order to reach speeds upwards of 60 mph (97 kph), the Voltari 260 is equipped with a motor that cranks out a peak of 550of power. That's the equivalent of 738 hp. Once you couple that with a 1,350 Nm (996 ft-lb) of torque, you're looking at the pizzazz necessary to have you spilling the bubbly for sure.Best of all, that torque is delivered instantly, as it is in all EVs, but Voltari goes a step further and even asks, "what sort of torque curve would you like, sir?" Because such levels are electronically controlled, even future buyers may be able to tune their 260 to their liking.As for a few other pieces of information that you may need to know if you're ever interested in dishing out $450K (416K at current exchange rates) on a 260 are that comes in with a length of 26 feet (8 meters), a weight of 7,000 pounds (3,175 kilograms), so trailers are a go, and that a draft of 31 inches (79 centimeters) means you can island hop with this bugger like there's no tomorrow. Come to think of it, the Voltari 260 could be the perfect superyacht tender for those tycoons looking to leave less of a footprint on the environment.But, one piece of missing information is how long it'll take you to recharge a spent battery, which also brings me to my next point. The aquatic crossing that Voltari recently completed is a 91-mile (146-kilometer) journey which, most importantly, was completed on a single charge. But, due to the nature of electric propulsion, to ensure the 260 made it to its destination, the team cruised at a constant 5 mph (8 kph) speed. That's like an 18-hour trip... and while that doesn't sound like a whole lot of fun, if you're to rip it around at full throttle, again, we don't know just how long you'll be able to enjoy your boating experience.Now, Voltari isn't the only crew that's focused on building electric boats; this has been going on for years. But what is neat about this company is the result of their work. Look at it, for god's sake; the 260 presents itself like a top-shelf speedboat. The sleek and narrow carbon fiber hull screams speed before it even hits the water, and once you punch the throttle, hold on to your hats. Oh, and Garmin, the navigation systems manufacturer, is even directly implicated in developing the 260's brains.Considering that this is the first product to come out of the Voltari drawing boards, I have rather high hopes for this crew in terms of future products. Even if the 260 is the only boat they ever build and launch, if they continue to perfect it, we could be looking at a new chapter in electric boating. Oh, and if you're hitting up the Miami International Boat show this year, pop by and tell Voltari to show you what they got. While the Lamborghini Broward dealership hosted high society attendees from southern Florida, the Westlake location had a higher number of clinking expensive champagne glasses, with people hailing not only from northern L.A., but from the Malibu and Santa Barbara communities as well.The re-opening ribbon-cutting ceremony was meant to show people a glimpse into the company's design vision for the future. But aside from applying a literal new coat of place to the joint, the spokespeople attending these showroom galas also flaunted their sales figures. Which is not to say it wasn't warranted.As it turns out, the United States is still the largest market in the world for Lamborghini, and by the end of 2022, 2,721 models found a home there. That number also reflects a 10% increase compared to the previous year. As a surprise to no one, California came at the top of the list, with 25% of sales. The state was followed by Florida, with a score of 19%.This increasing success wasn't due to the company's stagnation policies or resting-on-its-laurels philosophy. That's why, for 2023, their "attack plan" to boost these "rookie numbers" even higher, involves the Super SUV Urus S and Performante versions, the Huracan Tecnica and STO, along with their latest all-terrain addition, the Huracan Sterrato.The 2023 Urus S and Performante both have a 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine that outputs 657 horsepower (666 ps) with 627 lb-ft (850 Nm) of torque. The S variant is estimated to cost around $230,000.The Performante has some fancier bells and whistles like steel springs instead of air springs, Pirelli P Zero Trofeo R tires, and carbon-fiber panels that make it a bit lighter than the Urus S, which raises the price to roughly $261,000.The Huracan Tecnica boasts a 5.2-liter V10 that delivers 632 hp (640 ps) with 418 lb-ft (565 Nm) of torque. Its estimated price is rated at $245,000. Its bigger and better brother, the Huracan STO rocks a V10 as well, but it's much meaner on the tarmac, coming on top in every situation. The word on the street for this bad boy is that it costs $335,000, a whopping $90,000 more than the Tecnica.Lastly, the all-terrain Sterrato, which isn't out yet, is estimated to run you $270,000. It will rock a detuned version of the 5.2-liter V10 that's expected to deliver 602 hp (610 ps) with 413 lb-ft (560 Nm) of torque.This roaring lineup sure seems to be a solid one for 2023. At the same time, this is also the year when Lamborghini will begin their transition into an electrified future Dmitry Medvedev, center, deputy chairman of the Russian Security Council, and chairman of the United Russia Party, visits the Raduga State Machine-Building Design Bureau in the town of Dubna. Tass-Yonhap Former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev has said the supply of more advanced U.S. weaponry to Ukraine will only trigger more retaliatory strikes from Russia, up to the extent of Moscow's nuclear doctrine. "All of Ukraine that remains under Kyiv's rule will burn," journalist Nadana Fridrikhson quoted him as saying in a written interview. Fridrikhson asked Medvedev, who as deputy chairman of the Security Council has become one of Russia's most hawkish pro-war figures since its invasion of Ukraine, whether the use of longer-range weapons might force Russia to negotiate with Kyiv. "The result will be just the opposite," Medvedev replied, in comments that Fridrikhson posted on her Telegram channel. "Only moral freaks, of which there are enough both in the White House and in the Capitol, can argue like that." The Pentagon said Friday that a new rocket that would double Ukraine's strike range was included in a $2.175 billion U.S. military aid package. With the first anniversary of the invasion approaching on Feb. 24, Russian forces have been on the back foot for the last eight months, and do not fully control any of the four Ukrainian provinces that Moscow has unilaterally declared part of Russia. President Vladimir Putin casts Russia's campaign in Ukraine as an existential defense against an aggressive West and has, like Medvedev, several times brandished the threat of a nuclear response, saying Russia will use all available means to protect itself and its people. Asked what would happen if the weapons that Washington has promised Ukraine were to strike Crimea which Russia seized from Ukraine in 2014 or deep into Russia, Medvedev said Putin had addressed the matter clearly. "We don't set ourselves any limits and, depending on the nature of the threats, we're ready to use all types of weapons. In accordance with our doctrinal documents, including the Fundamentals of Nuclear Deterrence," he said. "I can assure you that the answer will be quick, tough and convincing." Russia's nuclear doctrine allows for a nuclear strike after "aggression against the Russian Federation with conventional weapons when the very existence of the state is threatened". (Reuters) If you're just about to start collecting Hot Wheels cars, you're bound to make a lot of hasty, uninspired decisions. It can take a few years to get up to speed with the world of 1/64th-scale cars. Once you get the hang of it, you'll know what kind of collectibles are a must-have and which ones it's best to stay away from. While Super Treasure Hunt and Red Line Club items will usually be a good investment, we're not quite sure how to label the Elite Series cars just yet.Mattel launched the 1996 Toyota Chaser JZX100 about two months ago. Undoubtedly, it looks pretty good, and you have to acknowledge the effort of producing a high-quality diecast for adult collectors. You could have bought this for $20 when it was released, and for now, most eBay sellers are asking at least $40 for one. Naturally, some are asking as much as $700, as they're trying to capitalize on the lack of experience and knowledge that you'll notice in people that are just starting a collection.We've known for some time now about the second and also the third casting that Mattel was preparing to launch under the new Elite Series name. One is a replica of a European car, while the other will take us across the Atlantic Ocean to North America. But more on the latter vehicle in a future story. For now, let's focus on the 300 SL, which happens to be one of less than 40 Hot Wheels Mercedes-Benz castings released so far. Seven of these are replicas of various SL models.There are two RLC-exclusive variations you might like, which were released in 2019 and 2021, respectively. Of course, these are considerably more expensive to get than the regular Premium models. But then again, they also have opening gullwing doors to lure you in.And you will get that feature on the Elite Series 300 SL too. This Graphite Grey collectible is meant to commemorate the success of the no. 417 SL that raced at the 1955 edition of the Mille Miglia . John Fitch drove that car for almost 11 hours and 30 minutes before reaching the finish line, outrunning several Ferraris, Maseratis, and Porsches in the process.The 1/64th-scale Elite Series 300 SL is rolling on Real Riders Steelie wheels, which seems to be Mattel's favorite option for this car. We do like the stance of this tiny machine, as the ride height is just what you'd expect from a race car. Overall, the 300 SL is probably not going to appeal to the same crowd as the Toyota Chaser JZX100 did, but it's still a pretty interesting machine either way. If you want one, it will set you back $20 , but you'd best be ready to hit buy on February 7th at 9 am PT. You know, that would help in case the demand for it is through the roof, as we've seen with other special releases in the past. Slowly but steadily, the CX-5 made a name for itself in the hotly contested compact segment. Last year, Mazda delivered no fewer than 1,116,107 examples worldwide, of which the United States market accounted for a third.I first got behind the wheel of a CX-5 a decade ago, and the verdict was pretty favorable. Despite a few hard plastics and some wind noise at high speeds, the first-generation Mazda CX-5 punched above its weight. Ive also tested the facelift, and the second generation that launched in late 2016 at the Los Angeles Auto Show. All three CX-5s left me with a very good impression about them, although my opinion did change in the meantime.To put it bluntly, Mazdas best-selling model has lost its shine. Its too old to hit as hard as it did back in 2012. While Mazda keeps making small updates year over year, but they're not good enough. The in-segment competition has much newer designs with better technologies that render the CX-5 old. More than 11 years old, that isDespite selling like hotcakes, the days of the CX-5 are numbered, according to Mitsuru Wakiie. This kind gentleman isnt sure whether the company hes currently working for is going to introduce a completely new CX-5 or not. Speaking to CarExpert, the program manager of the CX-5 didnt elaborate, which raises a question.Will there be another CX-5? One featuring brand-new underpinnings, revised oily bits, and nicer interior trim? At press time, only Wakiie-san and the most senior of suits in Hiroshima know for certain. The platform of the CX-5 still has a few years left in it, more so if you remember that its used by other models. Think CX-8, CX-9, and Mazda6.But alas, the CX-8, CX-9, and Mazda6 show their age. The CX-5 also shows its age, although it keeps chugging along thanks to good sales figures. The Japanese automaker is currently asking $26,700 excluding destination charge for the base specification, which comes with an automatic and all-wheel drive as standard.No fewer than eight trim levels are listed on Mazdas website, starting with the 2.5 S. It cranks out 187 horsepower. At the other end of the spectrum, the 2.5 Turbo Signature features all the bells and whistles. Its turbocharged 2.5-liter engine produces 256 horsepower.Facelifted in 2021 for 2022, the CX-5 was last updated for 2023 with a new exterior color. That shows how little is left to update on the CX-5, and program manager Mitsuru Wakiie knows it all too well. EV Well, thats not strictly true, as despite the deal being signed, the partnership will not start until 2026. That's when the energy drink giants two F1 teams will start running Ford-branded engines. This venture will be based in the Red Bull powertrains facility, with the American carmaker claiming it will have a big role in the hybrid part of the engines.While this deal kind of crept up on the fans, with no year-long talks making media headlines, it does not come as a shocking surprise. Those with a bit of F1 trivia knowledge are aware that the two teams are merely reuniting. It was the Ford-owned Jaguar team that Red Bull bought to set up its own project back in 2004.The rule changes for the power units that are going to be used from 2026 onward also served to provide the perfect storm for Ford to join the sport. On top of F1s U.S. expansion, a higher level of focus on electric components plays right into the automakers desire for growth in themarket.However, Ford was not willing to take on the massive challenge of a works team or becoming an engine supplier. This is where Red Bull comes in, as the team was interested in an engine partner willing to let it have control over the engine development while bolstering the financial and technical sides of the new RBPT branch.Obviously, with such a high-profile partnership being started, promotional material has already begun popping up. Red Bull recently launched a campaign advertising its newly-established U.S. ties by giving the fans a chance to design the liveries that are going to be used in the three American Races.But Red Bull is the king of marketing, creating a global lifestyle brand around itself, so things did not stop there. In the most recent airing of The Tonight Show, Jimmy Fallon interviewed Jim Farley on the deal between Ford and the accomplished Formula 1 team.To spice things up, the interview took place at an electric go-kart track, in a nod to Farley's passion for racing as well as the new partnership. The talk show host even got the chance to jump into a go-kart, unsuspecting of what was to come.The show would not have been complete without Red Bull crashing the party in style. Thats when the teams famous lieutenant, nicknamed the Mexican Minister of Defense, Sergio Perez, showed up dressed in a Red Bull and Ford-branded racing suit.A not-so-fierce, yet humorous, track battle ensued between the Formula 1 driver and Jimmy Fallon, officiated by none other than Red Bulls top dog Christian Horner. Following a clean race, Jimmy Fallon happily declared himself the electric go-kart champion of the world.Considering both Ford and Red Bull have a history of witty and creative advertising, were as curious about their future marketing stunts as we are about their possible racing achievements together and Ford's electric future. Photo: Acorn Tiny Homes Photo: Acorn Tiny Homes Photo: Acorn Tiny Homes This is the Sherloak tiny home, a mobile house that Canadian manufacturer Acorn Tiny Homes describes as a tiny house of mystery!, but without as much as a hint as to what that mystery might be. You could chalk this up to the need to explain what company founder DArcy McNaughton tells autoevolution is a bad pun, I know, or you could give Sherloak a chance to fully reveal its secrets.You might be surprised. These secrets are what makes this one of the most unique tiny houses around. Considering all tinies start with a trailer, regardless of size, theres only so much room for one to get truly creative: Sherloak proves that you can have a build that stands out, both in terms of design or styling and of features available.Designed with help from the owner, who is a member of the Canadian Forces and a single man, Sherloak gets its name from the mystery of its secret sunroom, and the fact that its furnished in solid oak, with rift sawn white oak walls. So its SherlOAK, if the pun still needs explaining.Offering 372 square feet (34.5 square meters) of living space, the tiny sits on a triple-axle trailer, and features a cherry woodgrain steel finish and Shou Sugi wood exterior. Its obviously larger than the standard tiny , and it puts all that extra space to excellent use, offering a living room, a complete kitchen, a bathroom, two lofts, and the aforementioned secret sunroom, which is actually a 3-season porch, and all the creature comforts of an actual home.McNaughton tells us that the home was designed as a means to combat the traps of renting or having to deal with the ever-fickle real estate market, while having an affordable and sustainable alternative . Because of his work, the owner needs to relocate every 3 to 5 years, so he decided that having a home that he can take with him is best.Access is done through double glass-paneled doors directly into the kitchen area, flanked on the right side by the living room. The kitchen comprises an L-shaped cooking block with plenty of counter space and a two-person breakfast bar, a four-burner stove with dual extractor, a dual farm sink, and an apartment-sized fridge. The footprint of the kitchen area is small, but the kitchen itself more than enough for actual cooking as opposed to just throwing together light meals or snacks.To the left of the kitchen is the bathroom, with a very marked modern-retro styling: dark flowery wallpaper with industrial-style light fixtures, and dark bathroom fixtures. On one side is a massive walk-in shower, flanked by a sink with vanity on the other. The toilet has a hideaway feature, and sits in its own private nook inside the room.The Sherloak has two lofts: the master bedroom over the bathroom, and a guest / reading room on top of the living room. The latter comes with a net extension that invites to play and relaxation, so to another customer, this space could also work as a kids room with its own play area.The bookshelf in the living room is actually the secret door to the secret sunroom: a small porch enclosed on all sides, with double skylights, and seating for two people. While some might say adding a porch would take up too much of the living space, this area actually sits partially on the tongue of the trailer, so the sacrifice is not significant. Plus, it adds extra functionality to the home and an incredible dose of awesomeness to a space that would have otherwise been standard, more or less.Other features of this tiny include deep closet storage and other storage options practically everywhere (including in the steps to the master bedroom area), tank-less hot water heater, and 420-liter (111-gallon) freshwater storage tanks. Aside from the surprise porch area at one end, the biggest highlight of this tiny home is, without a doubt, the beautiful styling and quality finishes. These are trademarks to all Acorn Tiny Homes builds , but still need pointing out: the design is clearly modern-retro, but also elegantly masculine and cozy at the same time.Like most tiny house builders, once this Canadian company introduces a custom model, it becomes available for order and / or further customizing. The Sherloak starts at CAD$158,000, which is approximately US$117,800 at the current exchange rate. If youre thinking this is not affordable, bear in mind that Acorn Tiny Homes makes fully-custom, premium tinies , and that similar builds from other makers are priced higher. Photo: VIVA Collectiv Photo: VIVA Collectiv Photo: VIVA Collectiv Some people want their houses to have a big kitchen, others want a walk-in wardrobe , while others want a home office fitted inside their small abodes. Surprisingly, all these dreams can be made true in a tiny house through clever design and a well-thought-out plan.A family of four from Silicon Valley wanted to break away from the digital distraction of everyday life and dreamed of having a tech-free retreat that would allow them to connect with each other and nature. They reached out to Gottschalk Construction, a full-service general contractor and custom home builder, to build their dream tiny home.The construction company got help from Brian Crabb of VIVA Collectiv, who designed The Spa tiny house on wheels for the family - a gorgeous, modern, and spacious home packed full of unique features such as a sauna and a tub in the bathroom. While most tiny homes barely have enough room for a full bathroom, Brian Crabb found a way to fit the epitome of Finnish winter bathing inside this build. Actually, we could say that The Spa resembles a Scandinavian setup in Northern California.The tiny home is 24 feet long and offers 344 square feet (32 square meters) of living space divided between the kitchen, living room, and bathroom/sauna. There are also two lofts that act as sleeping spaces for the family.Beautifully constructed with a modern edge, The Spa tiny house also has other surprises in store, like an outdoor dining table that folds up against the side of the house, a bench stored under the trailer frame, a skylight in the main loft, and more.The homes standout feature - the sauna bathroom - includes a tub, cedar-lined walls, tile floors, and a stove that heats up a kettle full of stones. Cedar has been chosen because it can handle wet areas very well. A beefy bathroom exhaust system has also been installed to wick away moisture. Moreover, to prevent warpage in the house, the interior cladding is all tongue and groove.Since this space also functions as the bathroom, there is also a sink with vanity and mirror, a toilet, and open shelves for storage. When the steamroom is not in use, the tub cover becomes a shelf cover on the wall. The sauna room can be completely enclosed with sliding frosted glass doors. I dont know about you, but Im completely sold on this spa-like bathroom design, and I can already imagine myself enjoying a hot-stone session on a snowy day.The rest of the house is no less impressive, though. The living room and the kitchen occupy the rest of the main floor in an open-space design. There is a small sofa facing the wide glass French doors that provide a spacious entrance into the house.The beautiful, fully-functional kitchen includes plenty of cabinets for storage, butcher block counters, a freestanding electric range with four burners and a hood, a large sink, and a full-size stainless steel refrigerator. There is practically everything you need to cook delicious meals for a family of four.Access to the two sleeping lofts is made through separate ladders, one right next to the fridge and the other near the bathroom doors. The main loft is the parents bedroom and is equipped with a comfortable-looking double mattress, a skylight perfect for stargazing at night, and big lateral windows to keep the space well-lit during the day. Actually, the entire house is full of windows that allow natural light to get in.The second loft is the kids bedroom and is protected by a nice wood-crafted safety rail. It includes two single mattresses and storage for toys. Both sleeping spaces have the mattresses placed directly on the floor, as most bed frames are not ideal in lofts, where there is such little headroom, but the owners can always install custom-made frames if they wish to optimize air movement.The exterior of The Spa is also eye-catching, characterized by a deep contrast between the main wood cladding and the white door and window frames. The tiny house also has some triangular shade sails that further increase its aesthetic appeal.As you might have noticed, the crescent moon symbol appears in several spots throughout the build, like one of the side walls or the fold-out outside table. The builders say it holds sentimental value for the family, so they made sure to include it.The house is now located in Amador County, perched on a property that overlooks an orchard, and the family of four are only part-time residents. For them, The Spa is a sanctuary where they can break free from their busy work and school lives in Silicon Valley. Photo: Screenshot from GMC Hummer EV channel Android Auto versus Android Automotive Photo: Screenshot from GMC Hummer EV channel The benefits of using Android Automotive Photo: Screenshot from GMC Hummer EV channel General Motors big bet on Android Automotive MY 2022: Chevrolet Suburban, Chevrolet Tahoe, GMC HUMMER EV, GMC Yukon, GMC Yukon XL, Chevrolet Silverado, GMC Sierra MY 2023: Cadillac LYRIQ Photo: Screenshot from GMC Hummer EV channel Youre not alone. New-generation cars come with an army of sensors and significantly upgraded infotainment systems, especially as the trend seems to be pushing the industry closer to an all-screen approach.The connectivity side of new vehicles is most often ensured by Android Auto and CarPlay, and this isnt by any means a surprise. Everybody has a phone in their pocket, so mirroring the mobile experience to the larger screen inside the cabin just makes sense.Kantar data claims iPhones are the dominating mobile devices in the United States with a 51 percent market share, while rival Android is pretty close with the remaining 49 percent.As such, the adoption of these systems skyrocketed in the last few years. Data provided by Google in early 2022 indicated Android Auto was installed in 150 million cars the figure didnt take into account aftermarket upgrades where car owners installed third-party media receivers. The number of Android Auto users is, therefore, much higher, and this proves that car owners are slowly but surely stepping away from the pre-loaded infotainment experience installed in their vehicles.But while the adoption of Android Auto is on the rise, Google seems ready for the next step in its strategy to conquer the automotive world. Truth be told, carmakers are still reluctant to go all-in on Google software in their cars, so this push is progressing slowly.Android Automotive is currently spearheading Googles car ambitions, and the search behemoth is working permanently with auto manufacturers, specifically on bringing the operating system to more models.General Motors is one of the first high-profile names to bet big on Android Automotive.The biggest difference between the two systems comes down to the way users can run them in their cars.Android Auto is essentially an extension of the Android experience on a mobile device. To run the app, users need to connect their phones to a compatible head unit either wirelessly or with a cable.Android Automotive comes pre-loaded on the infotainment systems and is the one powering not only the navigation but also a plethora of car functions, including the air conditioning system. As such, users can control certain car settings, like the temperature inside, using voice commands via Google Assistant. Google Maps also gets access to vehicle data , so it can provide routing based on the current range and suggest charging stops whenever needed.Android Automotive doesnt require a mobile device to run, but users can log in with Google accounts to access their data, such as the favorite locations stored in Google Maps.Users are getting more advanced capabilities in their cars, but Android Automotive also comes with significant benefits for both Google and automakers.The search company gets access to more vehicle data, something that has irked BMW, as the German carmaker wants to have full control of the information it shares with others.For auto manufacturers, embracing Android Automotive is one easy way not only to provide drivers with a familiar experience behind the wheel but also to reduce the burden on their software development firms. Google ships updates regularly and is the one responsible for fixes and patches.At the same time, every company that uses Android Automotive has the liberty of customizing the way the operating system looks just the way it wants. This way, the brand identity is preserved, so while Android Automotive is basically the same in all cars that run it, the skin the parent companies drop on top of it makes it look unique.General Motors is already offering Android Auto in the majority of its cars, but at the same time, the company seems ready to make the transition to Android Automotive as well. The switch takes place gradually and probably slower than Google hoped, but even so, having the American carmaker embrace its operating system is a big win for the search giant anyway.At this point, the following General Motors models are fitted with Android Automotive:Just like the rest of the carmakers that adopted this platform, General Motors also developed its very own skin for Android Automotive, and the result is a very straightforward UI that makes it easier for drivers to reach their apps.General Motors wanted to push things a step further, so in order to use the built-in Google experience, drivers need an OnStar Connected Vehicle plan to unlock all services.Once customers get a subscription, they are provided with a series of extras, including access to in-vehicle apps like Spotify and Pandora, but also real-time navigation , and a companion mobile app that lets users connect to their cars.The Connected Vehicle Plan is available for $24.99 per month and includes unlimited in-vehicle data, remote vehicle access, and in-vehicle apps. The Premium Plan costs $49.99 and adds emergency services and the OnStar Guardian app, which boasts road assistance, GPS tracking, and emergency help.The main shortcoming is more than obvious. Without paying for a service plan, Android Automotive becomes just a basic platform, so drivers are just going back to the standard Android Auto experience. Google Assistant, Google Maps, and apps on Google Play require a service plan on Android Automotive.General Motors is therefore trying to use Android Automotive as a money-making machine, tying the operating system to a series of in-house developed capabilities and hoping that users would agree to pay extra to upgrade from Android Auto. This is a risky strategy, but given the benefits provided by Android Automotive, General Motors could be playing the right card here. Thank goodness, the wisdom of the people has prevailed! I am deeply appreciative of the jurys unanimous finding of innocence in the Tesla 420 take-private case. Elon Musk (@elonmusk) February 3, 2023 It was a week full of good news for Tesla, following in the footsteps of the Q4 2022 earnings call. Elon Musk has approved the beta prototype of the Cybertruck, and weve also got a glimpse at the upcoming electric pickup truck. The Tesla Model S proved a cold-weather range champion in Norway, and demand for Tesla models soared, prompting a production ramp at Giga Shanghai.Tesla is also getting closer to cracking the dry battery electrode process, making Li-Ion batteries more affordable. Last but not least, the IRS reconsidered the classification of the Tesla Model Y, making all trims eligible for the IRA tax credits. This couldnt end better than with the news that Elon Musk is off the hook for defrauding investors in the infamous Funding secured trial.Plaintiff Glen Littleton and other investors sued Musk and Tesla over the 2018 tweet and Musks subsequent statements. They said that the notion that financing was in place was false and constituted fraud, causing them to lose money. On the other hand, Musks attorney Alex Spiro argued that Musks tweet did not constitute the entirety of what was disclosed about the matter. Even if not necessarily accurate, the tweet did not constitute fraud.The jury sided with Musk, despite his seeking to relocate the trial from California for alleged negative bias. According to Musks tweet following the verdict, the jury was unanimous in finding his innocence in the Tesla 420 take-private case. The judgment is even more important considering the judge earlier ruled that Musk recklessly made the statements with knowledge as to their falsity.Musk sat for testimony over three days in January, saying that his tweets were not comprehensive about the matter. Musk also said that not everyone believes what he says when he posts. The funding was indeed secured because Musk owns a large stake in SpaceX. His position was that a meeting with the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF) ended with a commitment to take Tesla private, although the parties never settled on a deal.In closing arguments, Musks attorney Alex Spiro urged jurors to make a firm judgment on the materiality of the tweet. He admitted that Musks tweet may have been technically inaccurate, but the case is about his consideration of taking Tesla private. Just because its a bad tweet, doesnt mean its fraud, Spiro argued.The plaintiffs attorney asserted that Musks behavior constituted fraud and that he should be subject to rules like anyone else. Nevertheless, the jury was not convinced by the argument. After a two-hour deliberation, which can be considered very quick, they delivered the verdict, clearing Musk of fraud accusations.According to Washington Post, one of the jurors said that plaintiffs case often seemed disorganized . I think the defense did a better job presenting that he was presenting what he believed to be true, one of the jurors told the newspaper. He added that the plaintiffs overall message didnt land. The verdict allowed Musk to walk away unscathed from what looked like a difficult trial. Musk couldve been liable for billions of dollars in damages if found guilty. BPD's full statement on 'Killing County' The topics in the docuseries are serious in nature. Loss of life, regardless of circumstance is tragic. In the history of the Bakersfield Police Department, there have undeniably been isolated incidents of corruption. Those involved have been held accountable. Investigations into the deadly force encounters outlined in the docuseries have been independently reviewed by the District Attorneys Office and the California Department of Justice and are matters of historical public record. While there are statistical and factual inaccuracies in the docuseries, we have compassion for the families affected. The Bakersfield Police Department is in the process of launching our transparency portal, providing access to these and other investigations as well as accurate use of force data, to our community. Our community is encouraged to review these and other investigations and form their own opinions. Every day, the almost seven hundred diverse men and women that make up the Bakersfield Police Department provide professional and compassionate service to our community. The Bakersfield Police Department will continue to improve, and demonstrate our professionalism and our commitment to public safety, equity and respect for all people. You can reach Ishani Desai at 661-395-7417. You can also follow her at @_ishanidesai on Twitter. Establishing tiny house villages, like the one Kern County is proposing for Oildale, is the latest hot trend in solving the nations growing Astrophysicist Professor Stephen Smartt speaks to Aine Toner about the solar system sculpture that is making its Northern Irish homecoming It was an attraction that captured imaginations of the universe in which we live. Our Place in Space, a 10km sculpture trail designed by artist Oliver Jeffers, Professor Smartt and a creative team led by Nerve Centre, will land back in Northern Ireland, this time at the Ulster Transport Museum. The North Down coastal path will play host to scale models of our solar systems Sun and planets, ending at Pluto in Bangor. The trail was conceived through a research and development project, presented as part of UNBOXED: Creativity in the UK, co-commissioned by Belfast City Council. Arches house each planet with names lit up in Las Vegas style lights but prepare to look closely. At a scale of 591 million to one, the Sun is a mere 2.35 metres across, with Earth 2.2 centimetres and Pluto just 4 millimetres true to scientific measurements. The planets are so tiny in comparison to the distance between them, says Professor Smartt. Olivers artwork and his artistic eye for designing the arches which are colourful and fun looking, combining the true to life scale with his artistic design, these two things are really what captured peoples attention and imagination. Professor Stephen Smartt with Oliver Jeffers Lorcan Doherty Those involved hope the trail will prompt visitors to ask questions about our world and how might we better share and protect our planet in the future. Quite literally bringing the solar system down to Earth allows visitors to reconsider what it means to live life on our planet. Were putting very few numbers on the exhibits. We dont want to distract people with information. We want them to actually to look at it, feel it and think for themselves, says Professor Smartt of how the trail is designed. And I think what they come away with so far in our experience is I think that gives them a sense of perspective and thats what we wanted. Hopefully it is making people think were on a tiny planet and a big universe. And theres much more that unites us on the planet than divides us. A case of understanding where we are from and where we are going, perhaps. Yes, I think so. They way its done is quite interactive. You stand beside the Sun. Its an impressive and interesting piece of artwork by Oliver and the radius of the Sun is true to the scale. And then as you walk away from it, I think the inner planets are relatively close, you know, its only 400 metres to walk to Mars. But then after that, you see the planet stretch and the real scale of the solar system. The thing wed like to convey is theres a lot of space in space. The trail is accompanied by the free augmented reality app on Apple and Android, letting users across the world to journey through the solar system. Users can also collect space souvenirs, including characters from the world of Oliver Jeffers, and launch a personalised star into space. Our Place in Space is a playful experiment that asks: What is the difference between us and them? says artist and author Oliver. Which side are we on, and if we look back at ourselves from vastness of outer space alone on our tiny planet, the only one that can harbour life should there be any sides at all? Professor Smartt with Oliver Jeffers Lorcan Doherty Professor Smartt has been dubbed Northern Irelands answer to Professor Brian Cox, a comparison he modestly downplays. Im primarily a professional scientist, research lecturer and teacher originally at Queens but now Im at Oxford. I like public outreach, because I think we have a duty to do it and theres a genuine desire to find out about our place in the universe and what is beyond the Earth. I think weve a public duty to do it and I enjoy it. I enjoy interacting with people and telling them what we found. But I guess Im most comfortable in our research labs and university. Professor Smartts interest in what is above us came only during university years. When I was in school, I was interested in science in general, not typically astronomy, but also all different types of science from biology and origins of life through to physics and chemistry, he explains. I was always interested in science generally, much more than the art subjects, for example. But it wasnt really until I was studying at university that I thought, well, Ive got to specialise in something. I was studying physics and maths and so I decided astronomy. I thought maybe particle physics at some stage I was always interested in science and the big questions that science could answer. It is that curiosity about the big questions that continues to be of interest and its something that he urges others to question what is beyond our horizon. I think we should always ask questions. If you think of children, they want to know the answers to the big questions. I think everyone has asked themselves that question in some way, although it might be different, but theyve probably asked themselves that in some way. He mentions childlike curiosity in providing great sources of questioning. I often do school outreaches and I did one yesterday at a primary school. Children have plenty of questions and I think its a human drive really to answer those. Doing fundamental science, trying to answer the big questions such as what has created the world we see around us? Where did it come from? Answering those questions often leads to scientific spin-offs. Without asking those fundamental questions, modern life would be lacking in many areas, especially technology. We wouldnt have discovered the electron. We wouldnt have electronic devices. We wouldnt have mobile phones and computers, and the technology we have if someone hadnt asked the fundamental question and so theres huge spin-offs, says Professor Smartt who became Director of the Hintze Centre for Astrophysical Surveys in Oxford last month. Theres huge spin-offs from just acquiring knowledge and sharing knowledge in scientific environments. Those can produce quite unexpected results which are generally of practical benefit for humanity, and also just the intellectual benefit to try and answer those questions. Professor Stephen Smartt His is a career that has led to the discovery around star explosion, also known as a supernova/supernovae, measuring their mass, luminosity and the chemical elements synthesised. A supernova can shine with the power of 11 billion suns. Every star is like the Sun, he says. Some are bigger but all stars are like the Sun. They all burn nuclear fuel in their core. In their cores, theyre all very hot, and they all undergo nuclear fusion. Nearly all stars do that and thats what holds them up, thats what stops them collapsing under gravity. All stars go through that process, have very large nuclear reactors and are very hot in their cores. Thats where the radiation comes from, as it leaks out through the surface. Stars have produced the heavy chemical elements that we see. The things that we are made of, the oxygen we breathe, the calcium in our bones, the iron in our blood, those have all been produced inside stars. They are nuclear factories if you like. Supernovae, he says, happen about once every century in a typical galaxy. In our galaxy, no one has seen one with the naked eye for over 400 years. We know a few have happened in that period, but they probably werent seen with the naked eye because they were behind dust clouds. We know they are quite rare, once every 100 years in the galaxy. But the universe is such a big place, theres probably 100 million galaxies out there. So theyre going off all the time in the universe, just because the universe is so large, and there are so many stars, but in any one galaxy, theyre quite rare. Professor Stephen Smartt Professor Smartt, who has previously worked at the University of Cambridge and the UKs Isaac Newton Group of Telescopes, leads several international teams using telescopes in Chile and Hawaii to survey the sky for subtle or more spectacular changes. Were searching the sky every day for anything that moves, or anything which changes or explodes. And so every day theres a chance of discovering new. We do discover new things every day; some of them are objects and supernovae that we pretty much understand. Some days we do find unexpected things that we find difficult to explain. Those are the interesting things that might lead to new insight. It goes back to a love of science, that is, a love of finding things out. Ive had a small number of times in my career where Ive looked at data and thought, and for my team working on it, were probably the first ever to see this, he says. Thats usually through a different technique or new capabilities. That certainly drives me, I think it drives a lot of people in science, to be the first to make interesting discoveries that will have important implications in the field and in science generally. I think theres so many unanswered questions in astrophysics and physics in general. We see thousands of galaxies in the sky, millions of galaxies, and we know within the universe, there are probably 100 billion galaxies in the universe. But we also know there must be stuff which we call dark matter, which we cant see and most of the universe is made up of this. There are still many questions to answer around that. The only way we can detect it is through its gravitational interactions. Thats one example where its still a big unknown. New technology leads to new measurements, which raise new questions. I think its that drive; we havent answered all the questions about the universe by any means, and we dont fully understand it. And I think thats what drives me, is to find out new things about our world and our universe. Our Place in Space runs in North Down from February 24 to March 26. For more information, see ourplaceinspace.earth/trail/north-down For many, air travel is something about which to look forward to; for others, its a means to an end, a convenient chance to do business in person within a matter of hours. Whether its business or pleasure, or a mixture of both, navigating an airport is something that so many of us are familiar. News Nadine Dorries will not miss being an MP as she becomes Daily Mail columnist Rami Dounsi is currently missing from the west Belfast area (Photo: PSNI) The PSNI have said they are becoming increasingly concerned over the whereabouts of a missing man last seen in west Belfast. Rami Dounsi was last seen wearing black trousers, a black coat, brown shoes and a black beanie hat. A PSNI spokesperson said: Police are appealing to anyone who may have any information relating to his whereabouts to call 101 and quote reference number 1299 of 02/02/23. Undated family handout issued by Lorelei Mason of Andrew Bagshaw, who along with Christopher Parry, was killed while attempting a humanitarian evacuation in Ukraine, family members have said. Issue date: Tuesday January 24, 2023. Family handout The bodies of British volunteers killed in Ukraine have been recovered in a prisoner swap with Russian forces, a top Ukrainian official has said. Andriy Yermak, the head of the Office of the Ukrainian President, said that the bodies of Christopher Perry, 28, and Andrew Bagshaw, 48, had been handed over by the Russians as part of a prisoner of war exchange on Saturday. Mr Yermak tweeted: Another big POWs swap. We managed to get back 116 of our people. Those are the defenders of Mariupol, Kherson partisans, snipers from Bakhmut vicinities, and other heroes of ours. We managed to take the bodies of the foreign volunteers whod perished, Christopher Matthew Perry and Andrew Tobias Matthew, as well as the body of Evgen Kulyk, a Ukrainian whod served with the French Foreign Legion and volunteered to join the Ukrainian forces. We need your consent to load this Social Media content. We use a number of different Social Media outlets to manage extra content that can set cookies on your device and collect data about your activity. Please review your details and accept them to load the content The pair went missing last month while heading to the town of Soledar in the eastern Donetsk region of the country, where heavy fighting was reported. According to a statement from the parents of Mr Bagshaw released last month, the pair were attempting to rescue an elderly woman in an area of intense military action when their car was hit by an artillery shell. Mr Parrys family paid tribute to their son in a statement released through the Foreign Office last month. The statement from Rob, Christine and Katy Parry said: It is with great sadness we have to announce that our beloved Chrissy has been killed along with his colleague Andrew Bagshaw whilst attempting a humanitarian evacuation from Soledar, eastern Ukraine. His selfless determination in helping the old, young and disadvantaged there has made us and his larger family extremely proud. We never imagined we would be saying goodbye to Chris when he had such a full life ahead of him. He was a caring son, fantastic brother, a best friend to so many and a loving partner to Olga. Chris was a confident, outward looking and adventurous young man who was loyal to everyone he knew. He lived and worked away as a software engineer but Cornwall was always his home. He loved rock climbing, cycling, running and skydiving and wanted to travel the world. He found himself drawn to Ukraine in March in its darkest hour at the start of the Russian invasion and helped those most in need, saving over 400 lives plus many abandoned animals. It is impossible to put into words how much he will be missed but he will forever be in our hearts. We feel so privileged that he chose our family to be part of. Undated family handout issued by Lorelei Mason of Andrew Bagshaw, who along with Christopher Parry, was killed while attempting a humanitarian evacuation in Ukraine, family members have said. Issue date: Tuesday January 24, 2023. Family handout Mr Parry, who was reportedly born in Truro, Cornwall, but later moved to Cheltenham, had previously spoken of evacuating people from the front line. Mr Bagshaws family said their son selflessly took many personal risks and saved many lives. Dame Sue and professor Phil Bagshaw, said: He and a colleague, Chris Parry, were attempting to rescue an elderly woman from Soledar, in an area of intense military action, when their car was hit by an artillery shell. The Ukrainian authorities, and government officials in New Zealand and London have been working hard to learn more details but little further is known about the circumstances of his death. Due to official legal processes in Ukraine it will be some time before Andrews remains are returned to New Zealand. Andrew selflessly took many personal risks and saved many lives; we love him and are very proud indeed of what he did. Andrew, age 47, was single, with a brother, two sisters and seven nephews and nieces. He was a scientific researcher in genetics but had been working as a volunteer aid worker in Ukraine since last April. We intend that his death shall not be in vain. We are amongst many parents who grieve the deaths of their sons and daughters. We urge the civilised countries of the world to stop this immoral war and to help the Ukrainians to rid their homeland of an aggressor. The Israeli army has raided a refugee camp near the Palestinian city of Jericho, besieging houses it said were being used as hideouts for Palestinian attackers and shooting at residents who opened fire. The fighting wounded six Palestinians, two seriously, said the Palestinian Health Ministry, in the generally quiet oasis town that has seen less violence than other West Bank cities. The army said it entered the Aqabat Jabr refugee camp south-west of Jericho in the occupied West Bank to search for suspects involved in a shooting attack last week at a nearby Israeli settlement. Last Saturday, with the West Bank on edge after the deadliest Israeli military raid in two decades and two subsequent Palestinian attacks in east Jerusalem that killed seven people, the army said a Palestinian gunman had opened fire in a restaurant at a settlement near Jericho. Smoke rises over a camp near Jericho (Majdi Mohammed/AP) Majdi Mohammed After firing one bullet, the gunman fled the scene, the army said. No one was wounded. The army said several Palestinians had holed up in their homes after the shooting with the help of family and were planning future attacks. To force the fugitives to surrender, a military bulldozer clawed at the walls of one of the homes as an Israeli commander shouted threats over a loudspeaker. Camp residents reported receiving text messages urging families to keep their children inside and avoid clashing with Israeli troops. The suspects and family members trickled out of one of the homes and turned themselves in, the military said. Security forces had levelled much of the house, leaving a pile of rubble and twisted metal. Palestinian protesters threw rocks and Molotov cocktails at military jeeps as they rumbled down the camp streets, while some gunmen opened fire. The Israeli military fired back, wounding six, officials said. Israeli forces raid the refugee camp (Majdi Mohammed/AP) Majdi Mohammed The incursion comes as violence rises in east Jerusalem and the occupied West Bank under Israels new far-right government, which has taken a combative stance against the Palestinians. Israel captured the West Bank in a 1967 war, along with east Jerusalem and the Gaza Strip. The Palestinians seek those territories for their hoped-for independent state. The Israeli army has ramped up near-nightly raids in the occupied West Bank since a series of deadly Palestinian attacks within Israel last spring. Over the last year and a half of escalating raids, Jericho has remained a sort of sleepy desert town, spared much of the violence. Since last weeks shooting at the nearby settlement, the Israeli military has blocked access to several roads into Jericho a closure that has placed the city under a semi-blockade, disrupting business and creating hours-long bottlenecks at checkpoints that affected even Palestinian security forces, footage showed. The Palestinian Authority, in retaliation for last weeks raid into the Jenin refugee camp that killed 10 Palestinians, declared a halt to security co-ordination with Israel. Nearly 150 Palestinians were killed last year in the West Bank and east Jerusalem, making it the deadliest in those areas since 2004, according to figures by the Israeli rights group BTselem. Some 30 people were killed in Israel by Palestinians in 2022. The Israeli army says most of the Palestinians killed have been militants. But stone-throwing youths protesting against the incursions and others not involved in confrontations have also been killed. But questions remain about partys relationship with the Putin regime Russia and the EU should have been working together to create mutually beneficial and non-exclusive economic, political and social relationships with Ukraine, Sinn Fein MEP Matt Carthy said in 2015. South Korean and U.S. Marines make a beach landing during a joint U.S.-Philippine military exercise in Zambales province, in the northern Philippines, Oct. 7, 2022. Joined by South Korean and Japanese forces, Filipino and American Marines kicked off large-scale military drills amid tensions in the South China Sea and the Taiwan Strait. Giving the United States greater access to Philippine military bases would allow the superpower to respond more swiftly to flashpoints in the region, as potential conflicts brew in the Taiwan Strait and South China Sea, analysts say. The U.S. and Philippine defense secretaries announced this week that the allies had struck a deal for granting American forces access to four more military bases in the Philippines, under the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA). The U.S. will now be able to rotate its forces in and out of and pre-deploy equipment and materiel at a total of nine bases in the Southeast Asian country strategically located in the South China Sea and close to Taiwan. But at their joint press conference in Manila on Thursday, neither U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin nor Philippine counterpart Carlito Galvez Jr. said openly whether the deal emerged from fears over a potential Chinese attack on Taiwan. Instead, both sides played it down by saying that the expanded access to Philippine bases would enable them to respond more quickly to humanitarian emergencies and disasters in the region. Lets call a spade a spade, political analyst Rommel Banlaoi, chairman of the Philippine Institute for Peace, Violence and Terrorism Research (PIPVTR) and a former government adviser on security, told BenarNews. The U.S. should admit that EDCA aims to counter Chinas growing military advantage to control Taiwan, the South China Sea and the Korean Peninsula and eventually the whole Asian region. Both countries, he said, would do well to be transparent about their true intentions wanting more American facilities in the Southeast Asian archipelago, which is near these flashpoints for conflict. If EDCA sites are for HADR [Humanitarian and Disaster Response], maritime domain awareness and counterterrorism, I think the Philippines has offered more than enough locations, Banlaoi said. I think the U.S. is preparing for greater military contingencies requiring more access to Philippine territories strategically situated at the heart of the Indo-Pacific, he added. The Philippines, a longtime close ally and former American colony, was the hub of the U.S. military presence in Southeast Asia during the Cold War. Until the early 1990s, when a nationalist-leaning Senate voted to shut them down, the country hosted two of the largest overseas American military bases Subic Naval Base and Clark Air Base. Filipino Defense Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. greets U.S. counterpart Lloyd Austin (left) as the American defense chief arrives for talks in Manila, Feb. 2, 2023. [Handout photo/Philippine Department of National Defense] More recently, the bilateral relationship became strained during the administration of President Rodrigo Duterte (2016-2022), who steered the Philippines closer towards Washingtons rival powers, China and Russia. He had threatened to scrap the Visiting Forces Agreement. This defense pact with the U.S. provides legal cover for the EDCA, a 2014 agreement that allows American forces to rotate in and out of the Philippines and access a limited number of bases here. Duterte later reversed his position before leaving office in 2022, as he called on China to respect international law in the South China Sea. His successor, Ferdinand Marcos Jr., is widely seen here as more U.S.-friendly. Marcos has expressed a clearer position on the disputed waterway, although he has stated that his government would also work with China for economic investments and trade. Its clear that both nations considered the Philippines defense of its territory while they were negotiating additional EDCA sites last year, according to Manila-based political analyst Don McLain Gill, regional director for the Philippine-Middle East Studies Association, a think-tank. There were discussions then that among the sites that are critical is Subic, which faces the controversial and disputed South China Sea, he told BenarNews, referring to the site of the former U.S. naval base. Subic has been transformed into a freeport but is still a property of the Philippine government. The alliance, Gill argued, has evolved based on emerging threats and strategic developments in the region. However, by increasing the U.S. presence in the region via its ties with the Philippines, China is likely to counter this development by solidifying its position in the region, particularly its locus of power in the Western Pacific, Gill said. In his view, China will try to deepen its engagement further with its immediate neighbors as it did during the 1950s and 1960s to limit U.S. influence and its ability to harness a collective capacity to balance China through the alliance network. Chinese President Xi Jinping (left) walks with Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. after reviewing an honor guard during a welcome ceremony at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, Jan. 4, 2023. [Shen Hong/Xinhua via AP] While the new Philippine president has signaled that his administration wants to work with Beijing on economic development, strengthening Philippine deterrence, modernizing its military, and diversifying strategic partners will be an undeniable component of the Marcos governments policies, Gill said. Last month, Marcos undertook his first presidential visit to China, where he and Chinese President Xi Jinping agreed to set up a hotline between their nations foreign offices to communicate over tensions in contested waters of the South China Sea. On Thursday, Chinas Ministry of Foreign Affairs criticized the announcement in Manila about the expanded access to the Philippines for U.S. forces. This would escalate tensions and endanger peace and stability in the region. Regional countries need to remain vigilant and avoid being coerced or used by the U.S., ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning said. Reactions at home The Philippines has yet to reveal the names of the four new sites where American forces will be given access. [W]ere pleased to announce today that President Marcos has approved four new EDCA locations, and that brings the total number of EDCA sites to nine, Austin said at the news conference with Galvez, according to a transcript from the Pentagon. While responding to a reporters question later on, Austin said EDCA is not about permanent basing here in the Philippines. Its about providing access that allows us to increase our training opportunities with our partners, our allies here, the U.S. defense chief said. Its about having the ability to respond in a more effective fashion as were faced as were collectively faced with humanitarian assistance issues or natural or disaster response issues. Although news of the expanded defense ties with the U.S. has generally been well received here, others have expressed caution. Nationalist activists point to past abuses committed by American troops in the Philippines. These include the case of Lance Cpl. Joseph Scott Pemberton, a Marine who was convicted of killing a transgender Filipino woman but was pardoned by President Duterte. As the number of EDCA bases mutates into nine, the administration should brief Congress and tell the public on where these additional four will be, House of Representatives Deputy Speaker Ralph Recto said in a statement Friday. National security is not harmed by that candor. But any secrecy will deal transparency, an avowed hallmark of this administration, a serious blow, said Recto, a former senator. On Saturday, Galvez issued a statement in which he defended the decision to expand the EDCA with the U.S., saying it is the sovereign right of every country to build its defense capability. [I]n pursuit of that right the DND [Department of National Defense] has been and will always remain consistent in its position that all engagements with the U.S. as well as other foreign partners must be conducted in accordance with the Philippine Constitution and other national laws, the Philippine defense secretary said. The newly expanded deal is not about permanent basing in the Philippines, which is forbidden by the Philippine Constitution, and it will allow our allies access to training opportunities with Philippine personnel on a rotational basis, Galvez stressed. Under the deal, facilities and infrastructure will also be constructed to help enhance the Philippine militarys capabilities and serve as storage or housing for assets and materiel, he added. Prepositioned equipment that will be stored in the Agreed Locations will strengthen our capabilities to immediately deliver humanitarian assistance to disaster-affected areas as well promote more rapid reaction times during disasters, emergencies, or contingencies, he said. If you'd like to leave a comment (or a tip or a question) about this story with the editors, please email us We also welcome letters to the editor for publication; you can do that by filling out our letters form and submitting it to the newsroom. You have permission to edit this article. Edit Close Rep. Jamie Raskin of Maryland, the top Democrat on the House Oversight and Accountability Committee, offers amendments to the operating rules of the panel during an organizational meeting for the 118th Congress, at the Capitol in Washington on Jan. 31. ChatGPT is good at being creative, but you cant count on the same answer every time because it changes. Its answers evolve as a humans response would if not sticking to a written script. Lenox native James Brooke has traveled to about 100 countries reporting for The New York Times, Bloomberg and Voice of America. He reported from Russia for eight years and from Ukraine for six years, coming home a year ago. Thursday: Possible early snow or rain showers, then mostly sunny, 40-45. Partly cloudy overnight, near 30. Saturday: Mostly sunny, very windy, high near 10. Mostly cloudy at night, temperatures holding steady, with gusty winds. How to Prevent Frozen Pipes How to Prevent Frozen Pipes . . . Here are some helpful tips: Keep garage doors closed if there are water supply lines in the garage. Open kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors to allow warmer air to circulate around the plumbing. Be sure to move any harmful cleaners and household chemicals up out of the reach of children. Let the cold water drip from the faucet served by exposed pipes. Running water through the pipe, even at a trickle, helps prevent pipes from freezing. Keep the thermostat set to the same temperature both during the day and at night. By temporarily suspending the use of lower nighttime temperatures, you may incur a higher heating bill, but you can prevent a much more costly repair job if pipes freeze and burst. If you will be going away during cold weather, leave the heat on in your home, set to a temperature no lower than 55. Source: American Red Cross. Cancer is fast turning into an 'epidemic' and is the second leading cause of death globally. As per the Globocan Report of 2020, the annual global burden of cancer in 2020 in the country had hit the 1.93 crore mark with an annual death of 1 crore. Let's explore some notable new technologies and also try to uncover the challenges in the fight against cancer. Cancer is associated with stigma, fear and anxiety. Apart from a cancer patient who has to undergo a host of tests and treatments like chemotherapy and radiation, the relatives accompanying the patients also suffer mental agony. India has a huge burden of cancer and according to Indian Council for Medical Research (ICMR) estimates on the Burden of Cancers in India, seven cancers accounted for more than 40 per cent of the total disease burden: lung (10.6 per cent), breast (10.5 per cent), oesophagus (5.8 per cent), mouth (5.7 per cent), stomach (5.2 per cent), liver (4.6 per cent) and cervix uteri (4.3 per cent). As per biomedcentral.com, the highest incidences of cancer are in the North (2,408 patients per 100,000) followed by the North East (2,177 per 100,000). Incidences of cancer are going to show an upward trend with lung and breast cancer being common among males and females and it is a worrying sign. Cancers of the oral cavity and lungs in males and cervix and breast in females account for over 50 per cent of all cancer deaths in India. As a large proportion of cancers are diagnosed at the advanced stage, it leads to poorer survival, drainage of economic resources, along with loss of socio-economic productivity. Cancer prevention and early detection remain critical goals worldwide. According to Keith T Flaherty, Director of Clinical Research, Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center, new methods that can be taken into primary care and remote care environments are not yet on the market, but are rapidly progressing in clinical validation studies. The biggest area of investment of development has been in blood-based methods for detecting DNA shed by cancer cells. He goes on to add, The ability of these methods to detect smaller and smaller quantities of circulating tumour DNA, now make it feasible to detect a single copy of tumour DNA in a 10 ml tube of blood, which is the needed level to detect cancers at an early stage. Those tests also incorporate techniques for determining the 'cell of origin' in a way that suggests the cancer type that is developing. This is an important feature and it remains to be determined as to whether these tests will be equally useful across the spectrum of common cancers. Early screening The key to preventing cancer is early screening. Screening helps to locate early signs of cancer or precancerous conditions. This leads to the treatment being more likely to be successful and the chances of survival are much better. New technology developments such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), liquid biopsies, genome editing, telehealth, robotics and gene therapies amongst others are powering better diagnosis and helping accelerate progress against cancer. While global cancer incidence is on the rise, rapidly increasing medical evidence coupled with numerous innovations in cancer diagnosis and treatment is improving how cancer is getting identified. Liquid biopsy is the analysis of tumours using biomarkers circulating in fluids such as blood for early detection of cancer. Multi-cancer early detection (MCED) test is now available that offers the detection of the presence of multiple different types of cancers using a simple blood sample. It is an Next Generation Sequencing (NGS)-based test that uses AI algorithms to analyse methylation patterns of cell-free DNA (cfDNA) in blood. AI-based algorithms are also available for screening cervical PAP smears to facilitate early detection of cervical cancer with higher accuracy. Theranostic markers are offered to the oncologists to guide targeted therapies and immunotherapy of their patients. A fully automated genomics laboratory for advanced molecular and genetic testing of cancers helps in detecting cancer. Real-time PCR, digital PCR, MLPA, Fragment Analysis, Sanger Sequencing, Pyrosequencing and Next Generation Sequencing are some of the methods being adopted in early cancer detection. For breast cancer, self-examination, yearly mammography above the age of 40 years and targeted biopsies can detect a large proportion of cancers in the early stage. For cervical cancers, yearly PAP smear and human papillomavirus (HPV) testing followed by cervical biopsies for high-risk cases are helpful. Monitoring serum PSA levels can help triage men in need of early biopsy to detect prostate cancer. For oral cavity cancers, early consultation for non-healing ulcers, white patches, growth etc. will detect oral cancers early. Other forms to screen cancer are advanced immunohistochemical markers on biopsy or excision specimens which serve as surrogates for molecular testing, as well as molecular testing by fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), polymerase chain reaction (PCR), next-generation sequencing (NGS) are modalities we offer. These tests help to treat physicians in making informed decisions for patients to avail precision and targeted medicine. However, Dr Jay Mehta, President & Head, Neuberg Oncopath mentions, We are somewhere between developed and developing countries in the sense that we don't have as many extensive screening programmes as needed for a population our size, however, we have progressed in terms of increased awareness among common people, offering affordable screening tests so the people can access healthcare earlier than they would have. Breakthrough technologies Experts at the Imperial College London have recently developed a surgical knife capable of identifying tumours that can detect endometrial cancer within seconds. The surgical knife could aid the treatment strategies for cancer by enhancing the diagnosis time and giving the go-ahead for treatment. Dubbed Rapid Evaporative Ionisation Mass Spectrometry (REIMS), the surgical intelligent knife (iKnife) can rapidly identify human tissues in real time and is a form of ambient mass spectrometry. The intelligent surgical knife can locate the presence of endometrial cancer using standard electrosurgical methods. It is known to identify different tissue types, including lung, colon and liver. Innovation-driven company PredOmix with its cost-effective cancer detection blood test called OncoVeryx-F is capable of detecting early-stage cancers in women with 98 per cent accuracy. Backed by metabolomics-based technology, the new age innovation enables the screening for early-stage cancers. Designed for women, the screening tool accurately diagnoses cancer before tumour development begins with high specificity. Says Dr Kanury VS Rao, Co-Founder & CSO, PredOmix, While global cancer incidence is on the rise, rapidly increasing medical evidence coupled with numerous innovations in cancer diagnosis and treatment is improving how we identify, perceive, comprehend, and treat cancer. What once seemed impossible in the field of cancer research is now a reality. Accelerating progress against this disease may be possible if these technologies are further investigated and used. The current cancer screening solutions at Datar Cancer Genetics are CE accredited, with the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) having granted 'Breakthrough Device Designation' for the early-stage breast and prostate cancer detection tests. Says Dr Vineet Datta, Executive Director, Datar Cancer Genetics, Genetic research over the past few years has rapidly increased the incorporation of such solutions in clinical practice. With the benefits of genetic testing getting increasingly established, efforts must be made to increase access to genomic services for all who can benefit. India is at the cusp of a revolution in biotech innovation, and genetic tests offer diverse purposes, including screening and diagnosis of genetic disorders, prediction of drug responses and identifying therapies that provide personalised cancer care. Apart from this, Virtual Tumour Boards (VTB) National Cancer Grid (NCG) initiative aims to provide standardised care to individuals across the country. Different centres from across India join this virtual tumour board to discuss the management of oncology cases. Mention can be made of Karkinos Healthcare which aims to significantly enhance access to cancer care services by creating a technology-enabled data-driven platform and distributed cancer care model (DCCM), wherein the knowledge architecture is centralised and the delivery systems are democratised and distributed. The DCCM encompasses a hub-and-spoke and further spoke hospital infrastructure on the back of robust technology and clinical decision support systems. Dr Moni Abraham K, Co-Founder, Medical Director and CEO, Karkinos Kerala mentions, We have a technology platform where a patient can assess whether there is an elevated risk of particular cancer or not. When somebody is diagnosed or suspected as a highly elevated risk, we need to send them to what we call a community cancer centre. We aim to significantly enhance access to cancer care services by creating a technology-enabled data-driven platform and DCCM, wherein the knowledge architecture is centralised, and the delivery systems are democratised and distributed. The DCCM encompasses a hub-and-spoke and further spoke hospital infrastructure on the back of robust technology and clinical decision support systems. Bengaluru-based Mestastop has created three proprietary platforms, both in vitro and in vivo, along with patient tumour translational validation, to unravel the complexity of metastasis drug discovery and early predictive diagnostics. These platforms are ready to be used for novel drug discovery, drug repurposing and profiling current anti-cancer leads or candidates for their anti-metastatic effect. About 9.6 million people died of cancer globally in the year 2016 and 90 per cent of those deaths were due to metastasis, i.e. spreading of the primary tumour to other parts of the body. Mestastop is not into the early detection of cancer but in the early detection of the metastatic probability of cancer, i.e., of solid tumours. According to Mestastop, a minimum of 10^9 (^ refers to the power of) cancer cells are needed to be recognised by a PET scan, and 10^5 cells are required to be detected by liquid biopsy. PET scan is the gold standard, as a liquid biopsy can still have false negatives. This means that even if one has 90,000 cancer cells in the body, the person will be clinically undetected. This highlights the importance of increasing the sensitivity of detection, or in other words, early detection, even when the cancer is small. Arnab Roy Chowdhury, Founder, Mestastop Solutions opines, 90 per cent of cancer deaths are due to metastasis, and once the tumour metastasises, i.e., spreads, there is almost no curative treatment. Clinicians use the node status of primary tumour patients to understand their metastatic probability, but it has a lot of variations and could be better. METSCAN can take a primary patient tumour and then predict its metastatic probability, thereby empowering clinicians in their decision-making ability. Medical diagnostics company Harae Dx Corp has developed a next-generation automated multi-cancer early detection system to revolutionise current methods of cancer screening with liquid biopsies. The non-invasive portable rapid cancer diagnostic system can offer reliable test results in as little as 30 minutes. The system is based on a multi-application platform using a proprietary lab-on-a-disc centrifugal microfluidic technology. Says Dr Nitin Malekar, Director, Harae Dx Corp, The primary goal of the screening programme is to detect cancer at an early stage, especially when an individual is asymptomatic and may have a family history. If detected early, the cure rates are better and the treatment is also not expensive, thus helping doctors and patients to accomplish the best results. Additionally, it reduces the morbidity, mortality and disease burden in the society at large. Apollo Hospitals Navi Mumbai recently launched Apollo Genomics Institutes to provide comprehensive care to patients and families with genetic disorders. Genomic medicine is a new medical discipline that deals with genetic disorders and helps in the diagnosis and treatment of rare and inherited diseases. This move is likely to help in the early detection of cancer. Genetic research over the past few years has rapidly increased the incorporation of such solutions in clinical practice. With the benefits of genetic testing getting increasingly established, efforts must be made to increase access to genomic services for all who can benefit. India is at the cusp of a revolution in biotech innovation, and genetic tests offer diverse purposes, including screening and diagnosis of genetic disorders, prediction of drug responses and identifying therapies that provide personalised cancer care. Referring to enhancing survival rates, Manikandan Bala, Managing Director, India & SA, Senior Vice President, Direct Sales Strategies &, TIMEA & Asia Pacific, Elekta says, Cancer survival increases with early detection. Unfortunately, when cancer is diagnosed, about 50 per cent of cases are already at advanced stages. Early intervention is made possible by early diagnosis of cancer or precancerous changes. Elekta has launched innovative cancer treatment solutions. One such solution for radiation therapy is Elekta Harmony, a state of the art linear accelerator. It was unveiled on World Cancer Day. This technology is critical for curative cancer treatments. All the above technologies, among others, are likely to become game changers in early cancer detection and will indeed bring hope to the medical fraternity and patients. However, there remains a host of challenges while going in for early detection of cancer. Underutilised facilities General awareness about cancer including its risk factors and early symptoms is relatively low in India. Fewer people seem to be concerned about developing cancer in their lifetime in India compared to the global average. The natural outcome is that fewer people go in for screening tests like pap smears, and mammography as a routine practice. Dr Rajiv Tangri, Technical Director of Histopathology and Cytopathology, Dr Lal PathLabs opines, Despite the availability of cancer screening programmes and excellent clinical diagnostic facilities in India, the services are mostly under-utilised. Major challenges that we face in our war against cancer include a low level of awareness amongst the general public about cancer, late detection of cancer, poor access to specialised cancer care especially in rural and remote parts of the country and high cost of treatment. Almost 75-80 per cent of patients have advanced disease (Stage 3-4) at the time of diagnosis. This is mostly due to the late diagnosis which in turn is due to a low level of awareness in the population and among community physicians, lack of screening programmes, lack of diagnostic facilities locally and the requirement to travel long distances to reach a major tertiary cancer centre, financial constraints and stigma associated with the diagnosis. The situation is even worse in rural areas which constitute almost 70 per cent of the total population. This is further compounded by factors like limited finances, language and cultural differences etc. A large proportion of cancers are diagnosed at an advanced stage which leads to poorer survival, drainage of economic resources, along with loss of socio-economic productivity. Cancer prevention and early detection remain critical goals worldwide. India is still lagging in terms of the sensitivity and efficiency of liquid biopsy. However, on the brighter side, image-based detection, e.g., lung cancer has improved due to artificial intelligence. The way forward Government bodies should evaluate the performance of the innovations to traditional techniques in mass screening programmes, following which certain tests/technologies can be incorporated into routine screening guidelines. Dissecting the economics of cancer screening is key to ensuring the equitable distribution of resources and appropriate interventions to improve cancer outcomes via early detection. Early diagnosis can reduce the cost of treatment, with estimated cost-savings in the disease course to be two to four times less than those diagnosed at later stages, including the adverse financial impact on the patient and their family. Early diagnosis of key individual risk factors is crucial for improved prevention of serious illness. The cancer burden will continue to increase over the next 15-20 years, with much of this increase seen in parts of the world where the health systems are already struggling. The proportion of patients receiving genetic tests will only increase as more data points enumerate the benefits of such solutions. However, additional factors like regular cancer screening, healthy eating, vaccination, and avoiding tobacco and alcohol consumption remain critical strategies for not just preventing cancer, but also reducing the detrimental effects of cancer. The Government of India has taken proactive steps over the past decade in the prevention and early detection of cancer and has launched various schemes to strengthen cancer control activities. Expanding the ambit of the National Cancer Registry could halt morbidity and mortality rate. As Dr Sundeep Jain, Founder GI & HPB Surgeon Abdominal Cancer Foundation, Jaipur, rightly points out, While India has recently established the National Cancer Grid to promote the use of digital technologies and tools to improve cancer care across the country, the increased fund allocation would facilitate in tracking the clinical care and outcomes of a large sample space of the defined patient population. The data from the registry can also help device public health interventions to create awareness about prevention and early detection of these cancers. Cancer cannot be treated by building cancer centres alone. Currently, one in eight of us will develop cancer in our lifetime and the numbers are only going to increase. As with most health related dictums, everyone must adopt a Forewarned is forearmed outlook to put a stop to cancer. Sanjiv Das sanjiv.das@mmactiv.com The company is currently working on developing multiple animal and human vaccines Hyderabad-based vaccine manufacturer Indian Immunologicals Limited (IIL) is all ready to launch vaccines for Hepatitis A (Hep A) and for Measles and Rubella (MR) in 2023. At the Genomics India Conference 2023 in Bengaluru recently, Dr K Anand Kumar, Managing Director, Indian Immunologicals Limited said that there are multiple human vaccine projects underway currently at IIL. "We are working on live attenuated COVID-19 and dengue vaccines, bi-valent typhoid vaccine and vaccines for polio, chikungunya and zika", he said. Besides human vaccines, the company is also working on multiple animal vaccines projects such as Foot Rot (Sheep), Canine 10-in-1 (Dog), MegaVac- KeC (Dog), Lumpy Skin Disease (Cattle), Mastitis (Cattle) 4 in 1, gE deleted IBR marker vaccine (Cattle). With a revenue generation of Rs 815 crore during FY21-22, the company is now looking towards clocking in a figure of Rs 1000 crore this fiscal. IIL has also recently forayed into a novel space of developing fish vaccines using genomic technologies. "There are many areas of vaccine development where genomics can be used such as to understand pathogenesis, to identify virulence factors, to identify conserved regions, reduce the number of valency, instant sequencing of new threats and comparison with known organisms to help figure out a strategy to develop vaccines", Dr Anand added. Set to become one of the largest private hospital in the tri-city area by Q3, 2024 Max Healthcare Institute has announced plans to expand its existing tertiary care Max Super Speciality Hospital in Mohali. The construction of the new building that will house 170 beds has officially commenced with the ground-breaking ceremony held on 3 February. On completion of the project by end of Q3, 2024 the hospital bed capacity will go up to 400 beds from the existing 231 making it one of the largest private state-of-the-art medical institutions in the Tri-city. To be built with an investment of close to Rs 400 crore, this expansion will not only strengthen the existing healthcare infrastructure in the tri-city area and the state of Punjab but also create job opportunities at scale across clinical and non-clinical roles. The hospital currently employs close to 1,000 doctors, nurses and other full-time staff. For the past 11 years, Max Super Speciality Hospital has been addressing the rising healthcare needs of patient pool across Punjab as well as the neighbouring states of Haryana and Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir. It records an average OPD consult footfall of over 10000 every month. The new building will house niche specialities including Liver Transplant, Bone Marrow, Transplant, Renal Transplant, Orthopaedics and Neurosciences. Ukrainian Presidential Press Service/Handout via Rueters "There will be no let up in our resolve. We will also support you every step of the way on your journey to the EU," EU chairman Charles Michel wrote on Twitter Friday, with a photo of him in the capital's iconic central square. But Zelensky does has a specific timeline in mind, which he voiced Thursday after initial talks with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. "I believe that Ukraine deserves to start negotiations on EU membership this year," Zelensky told reporters. "Only together a strong Ukraine and a strong European Union can protect the life we value." EU Foreign Policy chief Josep Borrell was also at the summit. After Ukraine's candidacy was approved by the EU last June, huge hurdles remain which will without doubt make the process slower that Kiev desires, given any country seeking membership must meet key conditions in areas like corruption, an independent judiciary, media, and rule of law issues. For this reason, European Commission President von der Leyen acknowledged "no rigid timelines" it is being guided by. "There are no rigid timelines, but there are goals that you [Ukraine] have to reach," she told Zelensky. Charles Michel, President of the European Council, via Twitter She did preview the EU's next sanctions package targeting Russia, which in part will focus on sanctioning makers of drone components the Russian military is using to target Ukraine's energy and civilian infrastructure. In reality, if Ukraine is let into the EU, it will take not months but years: "The EU will support Ukraine and the Ukrainian people against Russia's ongoing war of aggression for as long as it takes," the EU leaders were expected to say a joint statement, a draft of which was seen by Reuters in advance. EU officials have listed multiple membership requirements, from political and economic stability to adopting various EU laws. The process is likely to take years. "Some may want to speculate about the endgame but the simple truth is that we are not there yet," an EU official said. Still, von der Leyen, Charles Michel, and Borrell are vowing to support Ukraine "for as long as it takes". Yet Ukraine's leadership, accustomed of late to get almost anything it asks of the West (with the latest being Leopard and Abrams M1 battle tanks), is likely to continue to voice its impatience. Together, we are bringing light to Ukraine! Ukrainians can exchange their old bulbs at the post office for energy-efficient LED bulbs. The EU is gladly providing 35 million of them. Every kW of energy saved is precious to counter Russia's energy war. pic.twitter.com/dkKpSRH6yv Ursula von der Leyen (@vonderleyen) February 3, 2023 Not helping things is Ukraine's notorious corruption. Recently, Zelensky has booted well over a dozen top officials from office in an effort to show his Western funders that the government is getting serious about rampant corruption, especially as tens of billions in foreign aid flows through Kiev coffers. Zelensky on Friday also announced that Ukraine needs "accelerated" arms supplies if its forces hope to recapture Donbas, and at a moment Russian troops are poised to encircle the strategic city of Bakhmut. Reaching the Last Mile, a portfolio of global health programs driven by the philanthropy of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, today announced the launch of a new initiative designed to mobilize young people to lead efforts to eliminate neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) in Africa. The youth leadership initiative seeks to build a network of youth-led organizations committed to ending NTDs within their communities and countries through national-level advocacy, action, and leadership engagement. Participants in the program will receive funding, mentorship, and resources to support them to engage effectively in decision- and policymaking spaces, and to drive forward their efforts to champion change in their communities. The initiative, which will be delivered in partnership with policy and advocacy organization Speak Up Africa, will provide US $250,000 in grants and training to at least 10 youth-led entities within Senegal and Niger over a 15-month period. The supporting network will also act to unify and amplify the voices of youth-led organizations, enabling them to engage with like-minded peers, share knowledge and solutions, and bring learnings back to their own communities. Commenting on the program, Nassar Al Mubarak of Reaching the Last Mile said: The potential to eliminate NTDs in Africa is within our grasp. By promoting youth leadership, and by mentoring and motivating a new community of young advocates, we can beat NTDs, save lives, and help protect the health and wellbeing of future generations. He continued: This initiative reflects our leaderships decades-long focus on disease elimination, and the UAEs commitment to empowering young people to create a safer, healthier, and more equal world. We look forward to partnering with Speak Up Africa to center the voices of youth and to accelerate progress against NTDs. Yacine Djibo, Executive Director at Speak Up Africa, said: We must step up and continue the path to eliminating these debilitating diseases and their negative effects today. By partnering with Reaching the Last Mile, we can ignite collective action and harness the power of African youth, often overlooked during discussions and decision-making processes, to transform engagement into tangible action so that nobody, anywhere, lives at risk of NTDS. This way, they can step forward and take both leadership and advocacy toward eliminating NTDs. NTDs are a group of communicable diseases that are preventable and treatable, yet continue to affect more than 1.7 billion people worldwide, including 1 billion children. There are currently 20 diseases and disease groups defined as NTDs by the World Health Organization (WHO), including river blindness (onchocerciasis), leprosy, elephantiasis (lymphatic filariasis), Guinea worm disease, and rabies. NTDs cause immeasurable suffering they debilitate, disfigure and can be fatal. By most commonly affecting vulnerable and marginalized populations who often live in remote communities NTDs create cycles of poverty and cost developing nations billions of dollars each year. Nearly 40% of the global NTD burden is shouldered by Africa. The youth leadership initiative is part of wider efforts to drive progress towards the goals of the WHOs 2030 roadmap on NTDs, which seeks to reduce by 90% the number of people requiring treatment for the diseases; to have 100 countries eliminate at least one NTD; and to eradicate two diseases. To date, 47 countries have eliminated at least one NTD, showing progress is attainable and possible. The WHO roadmap also calls for the integration of young people across all NTD activities, recognizing youth as key stakeholders able to bring innovative thinking, new solutions, and help mobilize change. Commenting on the initiative, Dr Ibrahima Soce Fall, Director of the Department of Control of NTDs, WHO, said: Young people can show us the way as we seek to effect positive change and end the burden of NTDs. Their energy, values, motivation, and connectedness can play a gamechanging role and bring about increased access to NTD interventions. They have a vital role to play too in raising awareness and in spearheading the innovative solutions that will benefit the NTD community worldwide. Reaching the Last Miles new commitment closely follows the fourth annual World NTD Day, held on January 30th, which represents an anchor moment for the global movement to end NTDs. World NTD Day was launched in 2019 by His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed and formally recognized by the WHO in 2021, through an effort championed by the UAE and other committed partners. The day acts to galvanize political, financial and public support for the effort to stamp out these diseases and highlights the urgent need for sustained investment and action. To mark the day, Reaching the Last Mile and Speak Up Africa co-hosted the first in a series of youth talks in Kaolack, Senegal, bringing together young advocates, government leaders, civil society actors and private sector representatives. Through an animated debate, the group explored how young people can best be engaged in decision-making spaces, to help cross the last mile of NTD elimination. Attendees included Mama Gueye, Health Commission President at Kaolack City Hall, who addressed the crowd and urged youth to share their ideas for combatting NTDs, and the Sengalese artist Bamba Ly Seck, who uses his artwork as a platform to drive awareness and action in support of NTD elimination. Partager et informez vous aussi...... 0 shares Share Tweet LinkedIn Articles similaires Save Log in , register or subscribe to save articles for later. Save articles for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them any time. Got it Normal text size Larger text size Very large text size This story is part of the February 5 edition of Sunday Life. See all 13 stories . The bright bathroom lights werent helping my confidence as I stared at myself in the mirror. I still looked tired, despite the layers of foundation Id applied to fill in the dark semicircles under my eyes. My mother had tried her best that morning to straighten my thick, curly hair, but the bits around my face had already started to frizz. I tried to focus on counting my breaths. Four seconds in, hold, exhale for longer, just like I was taught. I didnt have much time, and I needed to get it together. I was at the London headquarters of the largest human rights organisation in the world, and I had one shot at convincing them to hire me. But this was not where I had thought I would be today. I was meant to be at home in Cairo, waking up next to him, still giggling about the night before and recounting stories of the funny things that had happened. I was meant to be wearing my new white Mrs pyjama shirt and getting excited about having brunch with family who had flown in to be with us for our special day. Instead, here I was. Alone, with grief overwhelming my entire body, in this overlit bathroom. I moved my right thumb to the back of my ring finger. For the past year, it had been what Id done in difficult moments to calm myself. Id twist the thin bit of metal until I sensed the sharp edges of the diamond and then push it back around again. It reminded me that somebody loved me, that a new life was awaiting me. Now, rough skin had replaced the feeling of my ring, another cruel reminder of what Id so suddenly lost. Loading I heard a knock on the door. Are you ready for your interview, Sherine? said a voice, with a mixture of confusion and concern. They are all waiting. I had asked to use the bathroom as soon as I arrived in the building, 15 minutes ago. I wasnt sure it was a good idea to sit in a waiting room; I wanted to avoid people for as long as possible. Advertisement Yes. Im ready, I answered, grabbing the handle of the bathroom door and letting myself out. I was led up two wide flights of stairs and into a conference room. Sherine Tadros is here to interview for the head of office position at the United Nations, announced the woman as she opened the door, revealing a large man wearing a brightly coloured African shirt known as a dashiki, and a slight woman with fine brown hair. They were both sitting behind a long desk. On the wall behind them was a photo of a life raft in turbulent waters, filled with terrified women and children holding on to their belongings. In the corner of the photo, #IStandWithRefugees was written in big black letters against a yellow background. I recognised the hashtag as one of the organisations main campaigns. I sat down in front of the two interviewers and realised there was a laptop on the desk with another mans face staring at me. He had a wide smile. Our colleague from the Kenya office is joining us on Skype for the interview, the woman with the fine hair explained. She introduced herself as Audrey, head of the refugee and migrants team. I recognised the man next to her with the African shirt: Id spoken with him on the phone a few weeks earlier when I was thinking of applying for the job, and he had patiently talked me through the steps. He was much taller than I had imagined, with a round, full face that was imposing yet gentle. His name was Tawanda and he was a prominent Zimbabwean lawyer and human rights advocate who was now a senior director. Im glad you reached out and could make this interview. What a lucky coincidence that you are in London today, Tawanda said. Lucky, I thought. If he only knew the truth of why I was here, how my life had been ripped away from me without warning two days ago when my fiance left on what should have been our wedding day. How I had spent most of the time since in bed, on a cocktail of anxiety medication and sleeping pills, numb to the world. Thanks. Yes, very lucky, I replied, trying not to make eye contact. Advertisement For the next hour, the three interviewers took turns asking me questions. My body started to relax, my hands let go of the arms of the chair, and my back sank into the hard plastic supporting it. This was familiar territory, being asked questions and having to think quickly while looking thoughtful. For the past decade, I had been a foreign news correspondent, covering wars and conflicts across the Middle East for two big television networks. Id learnt to keep my cool in front of the camera, crafting clever answers to complex questions even when I could barely hear them over the sound of gunfire or the shouts of protesters. I knew how to shut everything else out: conflict reporting is about looking in control when you are anything but, and I had mastered that art. As the interview went on, I became more animated. For the first time in days, I felt like myself. I was almost enjoying it. My mind was busy picking the right words and arranging them in the perfect order. I didnt have to work out what to do about the mess my life was in; I just had to focus on what to say next. As the interview went on, I became more animated. For the first time in days, I felt like myself. I was almost enjoying it. Audrey was asking me about the growing Syrian crisis that had arrived on Europes shores. It was mid-2016, and according to the UN there were now over four million Syrian refugees. The world had been shocked into action the previous year after seeing a photo of the body of a two-year-old boy called Alan Kurdi, who had washed up on a Turkish beach as he and his family tried to reach Greece. I had been there. Deployed to the beach that afternoon to report the story, I had found one of the guys who was first on the scene and had taken photos of Alans dead body. The toddlers blue shorts were by his ankles and his nappy was barely hanging on, covered in kelp. He was face down in the sand, but you could still see red marks on his cheek. Advertisement I remember thinking about the more sanitised photo of Alan that went viral. Perhaps that was the only way to make people care about what was happening to clean him up and hide his brown, scarred face so that Western mothers and fathers could imagine him as one of their own, rather than just another desperate, dark-skinned child. One of the interviewers asked me what the refugees I had spoken to wanted from the international community, and specifically what the UN could do to try to help them. These were the kinds of questions Id been asking myself for a long time, and the answers came easily. They were more relevant and important than the sterile questions I had spent years being asked by news presenters sitting in studios. I answered honestly and simply: The refugees wanted to go home safely. In the meantime, they wanted to be treated with dignity, and for their basic rights to be respected in their host countries. Sherine Tadros on assignment in Tunisia in 2015, when she was working as a Middle East correspondent. Credit:Zein JaFar The final question was one I had prepared for, but it still took me by surprise. Why do you want to leave journalism for activism? Tawanda said. Youre the Middle East correspondent for Sky News. That sounds like a job many people would want. Fair question. I was at the top of my game, my team had just won multiple awards, and there was no way this new job would offer anywhere near the salary I was on. Part of the reason I wanted out was that I was exhausted by the constant travel, by living in dangerous places, by the daily stress and pressure. And I was afraid of the person I was turning into. But that wasnt the whole truth. Loading My job ends at the wrong point, I replied, realising as the words came out that I wasnt making sense, a suspicion confirmed by the look on Tawandas face. What I mean is, I went on, I ask questions and try to expose whats going on. But then I leave and move on to the next story before anything is done. Before the refugees resettle or go back to their homes. Im tired of reporting and moving on. I want it to be my job to do something about the suffering Ive witnessed. Advertisement The ABC has apologised for providing an incomplete picture in a radio report about an Alice Springs community forum held to address alcohol-fuelled violence in the community. Matt Paterson, the mayor of Alice Springs, demanded on Thursday that ABC chair Ita Buttrose retract stories that appeared on the national broadcasters platforms that claimed a community forum at the Alice Springs Convention Centre expressed elements of white supremacy. Alice Springs Mayor Matt Paterson demanded an apology. Credit: Kate Geraghty The forum, which took place on Monday, was attended by thousands of residents who were concerned about drunken violence and property crime in the area. Paterson demanded an apology to the Alice Springs community and told The Australian that the ABC reports had misrepresented what took place. A small metal chamber in a metal room in a tightly sealed Brisbane lab contains one of the rarest things on earth a space almost entirely free of plastic. Scientists have gone to extraordinary lengths to create the space in a bid to answer some burning questions. The Minderoo Centre Plastics and Human Health laboratory at the University of Queensland. Credit: m3architecture Among them is whether the pollutant thats contaminated every part of the planet has also infiltrated the innermost reaches of the human body including the brain. And if it has, what damage might it be doing? They are big questions that will take time to answer, and one of the first steps is to understand how humans might be internally exposed to minuscule particles of plastic. An unexpected cool change has brought some relief to south-east Queenslanders, but those hoping for a better nights sleep on Saturday may still be in for some disappointment. The overnight minimum in Brisbane on Friday was a balmy 26.4 degrees at about 2am, with the temperature hitting 30 degrees by 8am. South-east Queensland is in for another sweltering night on Saturday. Credit: iStock But, in a development that caught the Bureau of Meteorology by surprise, the temperature proceeded to decrease from that point on. By 1pm, Brisbanes CBD had cooled to a much more pleasant 24.9 degrees. Labor senator and Aboriginal elder Pat Dodson has warned Australians wont get another chance at reconciliation for another generation if the proposed Indigenous Voice to parliament fails, urging the federal opposition to back the referendum to avoid electoral oblivion. Dodson also criticised Opposition Leader Peter Dutton over his calls for a royal commission into sexual abuse of Indigenous youth in the Northern Territory, saying it was evidence of why a Voice is needed. Senator Pat Dodson says the government will never be able to satisfy the critics of the Voice with more detail. Credit: Rhett Wyman In a speech to the Chifley Research Centres annual conference in Canberra on Saturday morning, Dodson took on critics calling for more detail on how the Voice will operate. Its a principle matter ... the Constitution is about principle, its not about detail, said Dodson, who is Prime Minister Anthony Albaneses special envoy for the implementation of the Uluru Statement from the Heart. The 2nd Dakar Financing summit For Africas Infrastructure Development has opened in the Senegalese capital with sixty-nine infrastructure projects worth $160 billion on showcase. African heads of government, the African Development Bank, development finance institutions, and institutional investors will gather to draw the modalities for pushing the projects to completion by 2030. The African Union Development Agency and the Government of Senegal are co-hosting the summit. The 69 projects fall under the Programme for Infrastructure Development in Africa (PIDA), a blueprint for infrastructure development to increase Africas competitiveness and economic integration. PIDAs Priority Action Plan 2, was adopted by the AU Assembly of Heads of State and Government in 2021. The summit will feature side events, presidential roundtables, panel discussions and boardroom sessions to discuss specific infrastructure projects. On Thursday, February 2, African Development Bank Group Vice President for Regional Development, Integration and Service Delivery Marie-Laure Akin-Olugbade, will participate in a roundtable discussion involving President Macky Sall of Senegal, Rwandan President Paul Kagame, and Egypts Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly. The discussion, titled Financing Africas Infrastructure Priorities under PIDA PAP 2, will include Afreximbank President and Chairman, Prof. Benedict Oramah. Akin-Olugbade is representing the banks president, Dr. Akinwumi Adesina. The bank delegation also includes Ambassador Modibo Toure, Amadou Hott, special envoy of the Alliance for Green Infrastructure in Africa (AGIA) (http://bit.ly/3Y0V7sp) and Mike Salawou Ag. Director, Infrastructure & Urban Development. Amadou Hott will participate in another session on exploring financing solutions for energy. Projects cover all five African regions The 69 projects, which come from all five of Africas regions, are being implemented by regional bodies and unions, including ECOWAS, COMESA and SADC. They include: The Transborder Submarine Fiber point of presence and Regional Smart Hub Facility and Data center project, which will provide ICT connectivity to 285 million people in Ethiopia, Kenya, Somalia, South Sudan, Tanzania, and Uganda. The Gambia River Basin Development Organization Energy Project (OMVG Energy Project), which involves 4 countries: Gambia, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau and Senegal. It focuses particularly on the rational management of the joint resources of Rivers Gambia, Kayanga-Geba and Koliba-Corubal, whose basins have power-generating potential. The Baynes Hydropower project, an energy project that will benefit Angola, Botswana, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Eswatini, Lesotho, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa, Tanzania, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. African Development Bank is lead financier The African Development Bank has provided over $7 billion in financing for PIDA projects under the first priority action plan (2012-2020). With close to $9 billion in the last 15 years to the continents priority infrastructure programs and projects under the NEPAD infrastructure program, the Bank is the lead financier, with more than 50% of total financing secured. One of the best-known PIDA projects the African Development Bank supports is the Abidjan-Lagos Highway project, valued at $15.6 billion. The 1,081-kilometer Abidjan- highway will link Abidjan to Lagos, via Accra, Lome, and Cotonou along the West African coast. The Abidjan-Lagos axis covers nearly 75% of West Africas commercial activities. The transport sector accounts for 8% of the regions gross domestic product and is an essential driver of economic development and job creation, particularly for women and young people. The African Development Bank provided 22.4 million for preparatory studies for the implementation and management of the corridor project. The bank has provided $50 million in technical and financial assistance to the Democratic Republic of the Congos government to develop the INGA 3 Hydropower generation project, which has the potential to transform DRC into the largest exporter of renewable energy in Africa. PIDA is a joint initiative of the African Union Commission, the New Partnership for Africas Development Planning and Coordination Agency, and the African Development Bank, which is PIDAs executing agency. Partager et informez vous aussi...... 0 shares Share Tweet LinkedIn Articles similaires The future of a regional health minister in NSW is unclear amid criticism of the decision to split healthcare responsibility between two politicians in this term of government. The role of regional health minister was created to address extensive failings in the states rural hospitals unearthed by the regional health inquiry, which was triggered by a Sydney Morning Herald investigation. NSW is the only state with a separate regional health minister, held by Bronnie Taylor since late 2021. Credit: Dominic Lorrimer The role has been held by Nationals deputy leader Bronnie Taylor since its creation in late 2021. But there are murmurs Taylor, a registered nurse, wants Health Minister Brad Hazzards job when he retires at the March election. Taylor declined to comment on the rumours, saying she was not thinking about what happens after the election, and defended the role of regional health minister. Realty firm Godrej Properties sales bookings rose 77 per cent year-on-year to Rs 8,181 crore in the April-December period on strong housing demand, and will cross the target of Rs 10,000 crore for the full fiscal, its Executive Chairman Pirojsha Godrej said. The company's sales bookings stood at Rs 4,613 crore in the first nine months of the last financial year. In an interview with PTI, Pirojsha Godrej said: "We are very happy with the quarter gone by. Operationally, it has been a very strong quarter". Sales booking during the October-December period jumped over two-fold to Rs 3,252 crore from Rs 1,541 crore in the year-ago period. "We have already done nearly Rs 8,200 crore of sales bookings in the first three quarters of this fiscal year and hopefully we will definitely cross Rs 10,000 crore annual guidance," Godrej said. The sales bookings in the third quarter were the highest for the company for any quarter ever, Godrej highlighted. Also Read Godrej Properties buys 62-acre land in Kurukshetra for residential plots Post pandemic pent-up demand surge, realty space may face global headwinds Godrej Properties eyes Rs 3,000 cr sales revenue from new land in Gurugram Godrej Properties buys 9-acres of land in Gurugram to build Rs 2.5k cr proj Godrej Properties buys 18.6 acres land in M'bai; eyes Rs 7Kcr sales revenue Bharti Airtel acquires 23% stake in Indus Towers held by Nettle Infra Operational date for Adani's Godda thermal power plant to be delayed again Regulators halt eye products' production at Global Pharma Healthcare site HC directs firm to pay Rs 2 crore damages to Pfizer for contempt of court Reliance Jio launches its 'True 5G' services in Uttarakhand's Haridwar Nevertheless, he said, Godrej Properties will not revise upwards its annual guidance for sales bookings. According to an investors' presentation, out of the total sales bookings in April-December of this fiscal, the residential segment contributed Rs 8,124 crore, while commercial properties were just Rs 57 crore. Geographically, Godrej Properties sold properties worth Rs 2,675 crore in Delhi-NCR, Rs 2,053 crore in Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR), Rs 1,452 crore in Bengaluru and Rs 1,376 crore in Pune. These are the four major markets for the company. Godrej Properties, which is the real estate arm of the business conglomerate Godrej Group, is one of the leading real estate developers in the country. It reported a 51 per cent increase in consolidated net profit at Rs 58.74 crore for the third quarter ended December 2022. The net profit stood at Rs 39.02 crore in the year-ago period. The total income declined to Rs 404.58 crore in the third quarter of this fiscal from Rs 466.91 crore in the corresponding period of the previous year. The company posted a net profit of Rs 159.25 crore during the April-December period of this fiscal as against Rs 91.90 crore in the year-ago period. Its total income rose to Rs 1,200.18 crore in the first nine months of this fiscal from Rs 1,063.12 crore a year ago. Godrej Properties has been aggressively adding new land parcels (called business development) through outright purchases and partnering with the landowners this fiscal for the future pipeline. The 1,600 megawatt (MW) thermal power station has been facing delays due to Bangladeshs concerns over the pricing of the coal to be used in the plant. Bangladesh which is scheduled to procure power from the Godda project is of the view that excessive pricing of coal will lead to costlier electricity supplied by it. Adani Group's thermal power station in Jharkhand's Godda district is likely to face yet another delay to its commercial operations date (COD), the MoneyControl reported. According to a Brickwork Ratings report from 2020, the total cost of Adanis Godda coal-fired power project is nearly Rs 14,817 crore and the project hasbeen funded in a debt-to-equity ratio of 68:32. Quoting a senior official from the state-run REC (formerly Rural Electrification Corporation) and Power Finance Corporation (PFC), the MoneyControl report said an extension of the COD is the only possible alternative given the current stalemate between Adani Power and the Bangladesh Power Development Board (BPDB) over the cost of electricity supplied by the plant. The project is likely to be extended by another six months, however, the exact period is yet to be decided by a separate committee. And both REC and PFC are expecting a mutually acceptable agreement between Adani Power and BPDB, the report said. The debt of Rs 10,075.42 crore has been raised from REC (50 per cent) and PFC (50 per cent). Also Read Fitch affirms Bangladesh's issuer default rating at 'BB-'; outlook stable CEPA: When it comes to trade with Bangladesh, India is far behind China Govt proposes pool of old thermal power units to balance more renewable Thermal plants not co-firing enough biomass likely to face penalty S&P affirms sovereign ratings for Bangladesh; outlook remains stable Regulators halt eye products' production at Global Pharma Healthcare site HC directs firm to pay Rs 2 crore damages to Pfizer for contempt of court Reliance Jio launches its 'True 5G' services in Uttarakhand's Haridwar Close to 100,000 tech employees lost jobs globally in January alone Chennai-based pharma firm recalls eye drops from US after 55 adverse cases The latest one to be missed was on January 3, 2023. This delay to the COD of the project will be the third time that the deal has been delayed. The first unit of the plant was supposed to be operational in January 2022. The date was then moved to December 16, which too was missed. Union Home Minister Amit Shah is scheduled to visit Jharkhand's Deoghar, where he will lay the foundation stone of a nano urea plant of IFFCO and address a BJP rally on Saturday. He will also take part in the centenary celebrations of Ramakrishna Mission Vidyapeeth, besides paying obeisance at the famed Baba Baidyanath Temple, as per an official statement. "The Union home minister is scheduled to lay the foundation stone of a Rs 300-crore nano urea plant of the Indian Farmers Fertiliser Cooperative (IFFCO)," the company's Managing Director U S Awasthi told PTI. This will be the fifth nano urea plant in the country, he said. Shah will then address the 'Vijay Sankalp Rally' of the BJP, an opposition party in Jharkhand. He will also be participating in the centenary celebrations of Ramakrishna Mission Vidyapeeth in Deoghar, the official statement said. Also Read Shah to inaugurate National Conference of Rural Cooperative Banks today Jharkhand politics: Buses carrying MLAs seen leaving CM Soren's residence Centre tells fertiliser companies, states to promote Nano urea use Kerala cooperative secures second position in global sectoral ranking Centre should change its attitude towards cooperative banks: Sharad Pawar Delhi's minimum temperature at 9 deg C, air quality poor with AQI at 233 Maharashtra court rejects Raj Thackeray's discharge plea in 2008 case Bhagwant Mann-led Punjab cabinet nod to scheme to train teachers abroad IAF to acquire new transport aircraft under 'Make in India' initiative BJD demands to restart PMGKAY in interest of household food security Shah's visit is considered crucial in view of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections and assembly polls due next year. He had visited Chaibasa in January and called upon the Hemant Soren government to stop infiltrators from other countries, who he said were "out to grab land in Jharkhand by marrying tribal women". The saffron party, in alliance with AJSU Party, had bagged 12 of the 14 Lok Sabha seats in the state in the 2019 Lok Sabha polls, while the Congress and JMM bagged one constituency each. The Punjab Cabinet on Friday gave its nod to the implementation of a scheme for training of teachers abroad. Under this scheme, the Department of School Education will send a batch of 36 principals to the Principals Academy in Singapore and 30 principals to the National Institute of Education, an autonomous institute of the Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, in FY 2022-23, according to an official statement. "The training will expose them to state-of-the-art teaching practices, leadership skills, creation of teaching-learning materials and audio-visual technology," it said. "It will be helpful to obtain objectives of education in the post-pandemic world, essentials of strategic management, shaping school culture, building teachers' professional capital, curriculum leadership, mentoring, and lesson observation skills, innovation in teaching and learning and effective communication," the statement added. The Cabinet met here under the chairmanship of Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann. It also gave a go-ahead to the implementation of a state scheme to upgrade government schools into 'Schools of Eminence'. Also Read How Eduvacancy is changing the way institutes hire teachers in India Teachers' Day 2022: Wishes, top 20 quotes, messages and WhatsApp status IRCTC cancelled train today, 18 Aug: Over 130 trains cancelled in India IRCTC Cancelled Train Today, 22 August: Indian Railways cancels 109 trains IRCTC cancels 194 trains today: Check your train status for Sept 7 here IAF to acquire new transport aircraft under 'Make in India' initiative BJD demands to restart PMGKAY in interest of household food security Record allocation for railways in M'rashtra will have good impact: Vaishnaw CDSCO probes Indian eyedrops after US FDA flags contamination risk Chennai-based firm's eye drops contaminated, says US FDA report These Schools of Eminence will serve as centres of excellence equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, the statement said, adding that in the initial phase, the scheme will be implemented in 117 schools. The Punjab Cabinet also approved Rs 74.75 crore to the executing agency concerned for the remaining construction work of the Shahpur Kandi Dam Project. It also gave its approval to sending the case of special remission to convicts confined in prisons of Punjab in the second phase to commemorate the 75th Independence Day. "Similarly, green signal was also given for sending the cases for seeking premature release of life convicts confined in the jails of state. After the nod of Cabinet under Article 163 of the Constitution of India, these special remission/premature release cases will be submitted to the Punjab governor under Article 161 of the Indian constitution," it said. Continuing the crackdown on child marriages, Assam Police have arrested a total of 2,258 people so far, an official said on Saturday. Rajib Saikia, PRO of Assam Police, has said that the highest numbers of arrests were reported from Biswanath district where 139 people were held and 97 cases were registered against child marriage. Barpeta district has the second highest number of arrests, which stands at 128 against the total number of 81 cases lodged. The Muslim-dominated district of Dhubri logs the third-highest arrests. Already 127 people have been arrested by the police. Here, 374 complaints of child marriages have been registered. Meanwhile, many women in different parts of the state have expressed displeasure over the arrest of their husbands. They have been protesting outside the police stations against the crackdown. Some of them even asked "who will feed the family if their spouses are jailed". Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Saturday, however, made it clear that the police operation against child marriage will continue in the state. Also Read Not even one-tenth of marriages in Delhi registered in last three years SC seeks govt's response on petitions for recognising same-sex marriages Assam NEET PG counselling 2022 registration process begins; check details 1 child or youth died every 4.4 sec in 2021: UN report on child mortality 4,004 child marriage cases registered in Assam: CM Himanta Biswa Sarma Adani row: Financial markets regulated, govt monitoring situation, says BJP Number of airports in country to go up to over 200: Jyotiraditya Scindia Govt displaying its anti-minority policy as 'badge of honour': Chidambaram PM Modi emerges most popular global leader with approval rating of 78% Delhi court discharges Sharjeel Imam, Asif Iqbal in '19 Jamia violence case "People should not try to draw sympathy on this issue. This is extremely necessary to save the future generation," he said. --IANS tdr/pgh Live news updates: Amid the raging controversy over Adani Group's stocks, the BJP on Saturday said financial markets are highly regulated and the Centre is closely monitoring the situation. ...Read More Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been pegged as the world's most popular leader with an approval rating of 78 per cent as per a survey by a US-based consulting firm 'Morning Consult.' As per the rating PM Modi's ratings trump those of other leaders including US President Joe Biden, French President Emmanuel Macron and UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak. The poll surveyed 22 global leaders for the ratings. The "Global Leader Approval" survey is based on data collected from January 26-31 this year, said the Political Intelligence research firm which collated a seven-day moving average of adult residents in each country, with sample sizes varying by country. PM Modi garnered 78 per cent of approval ratings, way ahead of US President Joe Biden, who received 40 per cent ratings. Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez. Obrador, came in second with 68 per cent ratings and Swiss President Alain Berset occupied the third position with 62 per cent approval rating. The year 2022 has been a phenomenal year in the history of India's foreign policy, under Prime Minister Narendra Modi whose advice "this is not an era of war" to Russian President Vladimir Putin found an echo across the world. Also Read What is the Popular Front of India? Indian economy to grow 6.5% in FY24; CAD may widen further: Economic Survey Popular Front of India: Understanding the organisation and the controversy PM Modi tops list of most popular world leaders with 75% rating: Survey Govt bans Popular Front of India for 5 years with immediate effect Delhi court discharges Sharjeel Imam, Asif Iqbal in '19 Jamia violence case Budget session: Smriti Irani slams Cong for disrupting Parl proceedings Kejriwal again asks LG to allow Finland visit of Delhi school teachers Bengal govt might exceed its excise collection target for 2022-23 Uttarakhand govt to make new arrangements to facilitate 'Char Dham Yatra' The Russia-Ukraine war has put the world on the brink of World War III, with every country choosing sides. However, PM Modi put his faith in United Nations and chose the side of peace, asking both countries to solve the problem through "dialogue and diplomacy." In September, on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization Summit, PM Modi said, "now is not the time for war" -- a statement welcomed by the US and other Western countries. India's strategy in a multipolar world appears to be avoiding great-power competition and forging its own, nonaligned path. According to the data shared on the the US-tracking firm's website, 78 per cent of people approve of PM Modi while 18 per cent disapprove of him. PM Modi's approval rating has recently increased, standing at 79 per cent in the third week of January. The list is updated regularly with US President Joe Biden currently ranking number seven. Out of the 22 countries, Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store, South Korean President Yoon Seok-youl and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida ranked among the last three in the list. The newly elected far-right leader Giorgia Meloni of Italy, the first female Prime Minister of the country is placed in 6th place with 52 per cent ratings. The survey also featured Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese in 4th place with a 58 per cent approval rating. Brazil's newly elected President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva was placed at number 5 with 50 per cent ratings, the Canadian Prime Minister was at number 9th position with 40 per cent approvals and UK's Prime Minister Rishi Sunak was in 12th position with 30 per cent approvals. On World Cancer Day, World Health Organization (WHO) has called for intensified action across the Southeast Asian region to strengthen health systems to prevent and detect cancers early. Cancer is the second leading cause of death globally, accounting for an estimated 9.9 million fatalities in 2020. World Cancer Day is observed annually on February 4 to raise awareness of cancer and to encourage its prevention, detection, and treatment. Between 2010 and 2019, global cancer incidence increased by 26 per cent, alongside a 21 per cent increase in deaths. An estimated one third of cancer deaths globally are due to tobacco use, high body mass index, alcohol use, low fruit and vegetable intake, and lack of physical activity. The WHO called for collective action to provide prompt treatment referral, to enhance access to palliative care, and to close the gap in access to quality cancer services -- the theme of this year's commemoration. Also Read Vaccine against cervical cancer to be included by mid-2023: NTAGI chief Air pollution may trigger lung cancer in non-smokers, discover scientists Hair straightening chemicals associated with uterine cancer risk: Study Cancers in adults under 50 on 'dramatic' rise globally, finds study IOCL to undertake intensified TB elimination project in UP, Chhattisgarh EC sends showcause notice to NPP, UDP in Meghalaya for model code violation Lawyer accused of bribing judges in Kerala moves High Court to quash case Govt to push producers to use recycled steel as 50% input by 2047: Scindia Delhi excise scam: BJP stage protest at AAP office, asks Kejriwal to resign Rs 7,000 cr proposed budgetary allocation for eCourts project phase 3: CJI In the WHO Southeast Asia region, an estimated 2.3 million people developed cancer in 2020, and 1.4 million died of the disease. Cancer is estimated to account for more than 20 per cent of premature mortality from non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in the region, which stand at around 4.7 million deaths every year. In 2020, cancer of the lungs, breast and cervix accounted for 4,00,000 of the total number of cancer-related deaths in the region, and almost two-thirds of people diagnosed with cancer succumbed to the disease, highlighting the urgent need for improved early diagnosis and treatment. WHO Regional Director for Southeast Asia, Poonam Khetrapal Singh, said that since 2014, the region has accelerated action to prevent, detect, treat and control cancer, with increased focus on eliminating cervical cancer as a public health problem. "Eight countries of the Region now have in place population-based cancer registries (PCBRs), and three countries -- Myanmar, Nepal and Sri Lanka -- are focus countries for addressing childhood cancer. Ten of the region's 11 member states provide tertiary care services for cancer diagnosis and treatment - including surgical and chemotherapy services - and nine also offer radiotherapy services," she said. "WHO continues to support countries of the Region to implement its new Regional Action Plan on Oral Health 2022-2030, including oral cancers, which in 2020 were among the top five most common cancers, accounting for 7.4 per cent of new cancers. Five countries of the region -- Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Sri Lanka and Thailand -- now have in place national cancer control plans, which Maldives and Nepal are in the process of finalizing. The Region is currently on track to achieve the WHO NCD Global Action Plan target of a 30 per cent relative reduction in tobacco use prevalence between 2010 and 2025." Singh further added that on cervical cancer, the region is achieving rapid, life-saving progress. Bhutan, Maldives, Myanmar, Sri Lanka and Thailand have introduced nation-wide HPV vaccination, which Bangladesh, India and Timor-Leste are also set to launch. Indonesia has introduced HPV vaccination in several provinces, covering tens of millions of girls. New evidence shows that a single dose of HPV vaccine delivers protection comparable to the 2-dose schedule, which alongside additional cost reductions, should enable countries to reach every woman and girl. Talking about accelerating the progress to close the care gap, Singh pointed out several priorities for the region like introducing and expanding HPV vaccination in routine immunization to prevent cervical cancer. Secondly, she opined increasing capacity at the primary health care (PHC) level to detect cancers early with a focus on intensified health workforce training. Third, rapidly, and systematically, advancing the capacity of tertiary care facilities to provide comprehensive diagnostic and treatment services that is critical to reduce cancer mortality. Fourth, to include the cancer services in risk pooling or pre-payment schemes and health benefit packages. "In the last two decades, the world has made significant progress in the science of cancer control. However, much more work is needed to close the care gap, improve cancer survival, and accelerate towards the NCD 2025 and Sustainable Development Goal targets 2030," she added. --IANS avr/prw/ksk/ For FY24, this budget has earmarked an expenditure of Rs 2,400 crore. The government intends to develop 50 tourist destinations as a complete package. While the efforts of the government to promote domestic tourist traffic by further strengthening Dekho Apna Desh initiative and appealing to the middle class to prefer domestic tourism over international tourism is laudable, an equal or more amount of energy also needs to be channelised to promote international traffic of tourists. Despite being blessed with a vast network of tourist destinations, ranging from picture-perfect landscapes to heritage sites, tourism potential in India remains largely untapped.Being a highly labour-intensive sector, the tourism sector can generate large-scale, good-quality employment. According to the Report on Working Group on Tourism, the travel and tourism sector was projected to generate 780 jobs in India per Rs 1 crore of investment compared to 450 jobs in the manufacturing sector for a similar investment. Fully understanding the tourism sectors role in Indias growth story, Budget 2023-24 has also laid a big emphasis on the tourism sector and talked of promoting the tourism sector on Mission mode. In 2022, foreign tourists arrival fell to 6 million. Focusing on international tourists, the draft National Tourism Policy also aims at making India one of the top 5 destinations in the world in terms of both international arrivals and international tourism receipts by 2030 and the most sought-after travel destination in the world by 2047. However, to turn this vision into reality, it is crucial to take some concrete steps on an immediate basis. There exists much more scope to increase the footfall of international tourists in India. As also evidenced in Economic Survey (2021-22), the number of foreign tourist arrivals in India increased only from 2 million to 11 million between 1990 and 2019 (pre pandemic year), while domestic tourist arrivals increased comparatively at a better rate from around 60 million to approximately 2.32 billion during 1990-2019. India accounted for a mere 1.2 per cent share in international tourist arrivals and ranked 23rd globally for the same in 2019. In order to attract more international tourists, India must increase investment and leverage public-private partnership models in healthcare at a faster pace. Leveraging new business models like telemedicine can further enhance the sectors productivity. Additionally, the scope of medical tourism can be expanded to develop India into a hub for spiritual and wellness tourism, as the country has much to offer in Ayurveda and Yoga. There is an increasing focus on spiritual tourism. With its long history and rich philosophy, there is increasing scope for India to attract people looking to elevate their physical, mental, and emotional energies by pursuing the spiritual path. The most prudent strategy to attract foreign travelers would be to focus on niche areas. Medical tourism accounted for 6.4 per cent of all foreign arrivals in India in 2019. According to the economic survey, India is ranked 10th out of the top 64 countries in the world in the Medical Tourism Index FY21. The main contributor to the burgeoning medical tourism sector is the lower costs of tertiary healthcare and relatively high quality of medical treatment in India in comparison to other countries. For instance, a heart bypass surgery in India costs as low as $7900, which is the lowest among major destinations for medical tourism like Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Turkey, and South Korea. However, to leverage this potential, it is essential to incentivise and develop clusters of hospitals to facilitate access to foreign tourists. Also Read 50 mn networking conversations witnessed among rising workforce in Q3: Apna DESH Bill: Commerce dept may scrap concessional corporate tax provision Finance ministry raises concerns on proposed tax sops under DESH Bill DESH Bill likely to be reworked after finance ministry raises concern Finance ministry rejects 15% benign corporate tax in DESH Bill Indian refiners pay traders in dirhams for Russian oil, says report Haryana govt employees to get medical reimbursement for ayurvedic treatment Jharkhand gets Rs 5,271 cr from Budget for rail infrastructure augmentation J&K admin sanctions Rs 62 cr project for conservation of herbal riches Rabi sowing ends with 3% rise in acreage; mustard sown in around 9.8 mn ha done in countries like Malaysia. While the attraction of India as a tourist destination is beyond doubt, the focus must be laid on facilitating and smoothening access and experience. It is important to simplify the process of registering online with the Foreigner Regional Registration Offices (FRRO). Establishing FRRO help-desks at major Indian airports and hospitals will provide visitors with the information to complete the process online. Also, the number of annual visits allowed under an e-medical visa should be enhanced. Currently, e-medical visa holders are allowed three repeat visits during their one-year visa period. And this may not be sufficient for patients who require follow-up/ post-operative care. Also, the number of accompanying persons with e-medical visa holders may be increased under the same visa, as has been hotel room size, decor, and amenities can be experienced before-hand before the actual visit. This is likely to save tourists time and avoid unnecessary hassle, thus enriching tourist experience. While new and emerging technologies like augmented reality (AR) and mixed reality (MR) provide a plethora of opportunities to enhance destination reach and tourist experience, it is vital to recognise these opportunities earlier and establish institutional capabilities to exploit these technologies. A dedicated national technological tourism roadmap can hence be formulated to realize the full potential of the tourism sector. The coming years are also going to witness the increasing importance of digital tourism. Emerging technologies like the metaverse have the potential to transform the tourist experience and engagement at destinations. Because of the metaverse, travelers can experience 3D hotel tours before confirming the booking. Information such as facilities, gaining popularity in India. Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE) is an early filler to ensure that infrastructure has early utilisation. With infrastructure amenities constantly improving, India is increasingly the preferred destination for MICE events. Tribal arts, crafts, and eco-tourism provide novelty with good synergies with MICE. Forest-based resorts and HORECA (HOtel, REstaurant, CAfe) are complementary to attracting services employers. Leisure travel is re- Apart from the naturally endowed scenic beauty of tourist destinations, the availability of good infrastructure, maintenance of law and order, and user-friendly basic amenities are other essential requirements for promoting tourism. The tourism industry needs to be given higher priority status. MICE and eco-tourism have enormous potential. Tourism Furthermore, targeted promotional campaigns of tourist circuits can be undertaken in major regions of the world. These regions can be divided on the basis of income levels, climate, or socio-economic conditions. Accordingly, market research can be undertaken to identify consumer preferences, factors determining the selection of destination, and seasonality of travel. And tourism campaigns must be designed based on market research for better outcomes. The government has rightly shown the intent to boost the tourism sector, but if this intent also gets complemented by a concrete roadmap and an effective implementation strategy, Indian tourism sector can contribute significantly to generating employment-intensive growth in the country. infrastructure projects, viz., hotels, resorts, equipment, parks, etc., having a project cost of more than INR 1 crore should be notified as infrastructure to enable entrepreneurs to take credit on a priority basis. Furthermore, there is a need to upgrade existing infrastructure at major tourist places, and such infrastructure maintenance can be leased out to private players. Besides, even undertaking small steps aimed at facilitating the ease of travelling like creating common passes to visit multiple heritage sites, providing foreign exchange counters at each tourist site, and operating tourist information centres professionally can play a big role in increasing tourist traffic in India. The world observed a brief pause in the Covid-19 insurgence after taking the vaccines, but it did not last for long. China reported a spike in the coronavirus mutated variant of "SARS-CoV-2" despite enforcing the draconian 'Zero-Covid Policy'. According to China's National Health Commission, nearly 248 million people contracted the virus in the first 20 days of December last year, accounting for nearly 18 percent of the population. Amid the resurgence in Covid cases, China's indigenous vaccines, "CanSino" and "BBIBPCorV," were heavily scrutinized based on their efficacy rates. There were concerns about the legitimacy of these vaccines raised concerns after certain documents were leaked online, labeled "extra urgent and non-disclosure to the public" detailing tests conducted on blood serum were positive results for IgM antibodies, despite being fully vaccinated by Chinese vaccines. The State Council of the People's Republic of China stated that more than 1.6 billion yuan ($247.5 million) worth of medical expenses for Covid-19 patients was covered by China's medical insurance funds last year. Indian indigenous vaccines emerge as a lifesaver in Covid-hit China. As China struggles with a sudden surge of Covid cases, generic drugs from India, particularly the generic version of Pfizer's oral drug Paxlovid, became the best-sellers in China. The Indian generic drug, sold at RMB 1000 a box, appeared on Weibo's hot search list in the last few days. At least four generic Covid drugs produced in India -- Primovir, Paxista, Molnunat, and Molantris -- have been listed as the most sought-after drugs in China. Primovir and Paxista are both generic versions of Paxlovid, while the other two are generic versions of Molnipiravir. In December 2022, the World Health Organization's (WHO) prequalification list backed an Indian-based generic drug of Paxlovid. An agreement was signed with the United Nations-backed Medicines Patent Pool (MPP) to license the manufacturing and selling of the generic version of the drug to low- and middle-income countries. India's generic vaccine efficacy against Covid-19 of any severity is at 78 per cent. The efficacy against severe diseases is 93 per cent. Adults under the age of 60 had a 79 per cent efficacy rate, while those over 60 had a 68 per cent efficacy rate. WHO issued a detailed document stating that the Indian vaccine against all variant-related Covid-19 diseases was 71 per cent effective, with an efficacy of 90 per cent against Kappa and 65 per cent against Delta. As of 2020, 1.36 billion people in China had signed up for basic medical insurance. But Pfizer's Paxlovid is not included in China's national insurance. The Chinese healthcare authorities declined to include Paxlovid, which is essential for the elderly segment. The authorities ruled out including the vaccine, stating that it's "too expensive." However, including the vaccine on the national reimbursement list would have allowed the patients to get the vaccine at a cheaper rate. Also Read How did India waste over 100 million Covid vaccines? Demand for Indian generic drugs skyrockets in China amid Covid surge Zydus Lifesciences' generic drug for overactive bladder gets USFDA nod China, Pfizer hit deadlock over Paxlovid's price amid Covid-19 surge Zenara Pharma launches generic anti-viral pills for Covid-19 in India Chinese balloon to remain over US skies for a few days, says Pentagon Mystery balloon discovery over Montana missile fields cancels US-China trip China says it is looking into report of spy balloon over US, urges calm Scientists in Japan use new device to detect brain tumor via urine test Germany drops face mask mandate on long-distance transport after 2 yrs China's elderly population's vaccination status currently remains a primary hurdle, and their booster status continues to lag. China continues to criticize Western vaccines in order to promote its own vaccine in order to stay ahead of the vaccine race. Head of Beijing Memorial Pharmaceutical He Xiao Bing, said that India was the only country where they could source reliable and affordable Covid drugs with guaranteed therapeutic effects and efficacy. All four of these drugs have been approved for emergency use by the Indian authorities, but they are not legal for use in China. Despite the Chinese's positive attitude toward the efficacy of the Indian generic vaccine, China reported widespread counterfeiting of the Indian generic vaccine at a much higher rate. The shortage of Pfizer's "Paxovid," an expensive vaccine, propelled the Chinese towards the black market for affordable Indian generic Covid drugs. Weibo reported users sharing information and tips on where to get illegally imported Indian-made generic drugs. Chinese news outlets were quick to point out on social media that more than 90 per cent of Indian generic drugs circulating in China were counterfeit and lacked active ingredients. Some users of the actual drug took it to social media to "thank" the Indian generic vaccines. The sudden increase in counterfeit Indian generic drugs has raised serious concerns about the source of these counterfeits. Certain users online reported that these counterfeit products were directly produced in Chinese factories and were not smuggled in from India. China has a history of dominating the "vaccine race" and the drug industry. In order to change the status quo and remain on top, the counterfeit products circulating in China are more or less propagating against the actual efficacy rate of India's generic vaccine. China is regarded as the world's largest supplier of 'Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients' (APIs). And India, a leading exporter of generic drugs across the world, depends on China for more than two-thirds of its API needs. India is estimated to supply up to 50 per cent of the United States' generic drug needs. During the outbreak last year, China halted exports of essential APIs to India, severely disrupting the supply chain and causing widespread fear of a drug shortage in the United States. China's constant need to dominate the drug market is only pushing India to reassess its dependency on Chinese APIs. The Indian generic drug has done well in the Chinese market against Covid despite the counterfeit products taking a toll. Pharmaceuticals are a major component of India's trade expansion strategy, and after witnessing its drugs' efficacy rate, India is likely to push towards less dependency on China's APIs and emerge as completely independent. Pakistan has blocked Wikipedia after the website refused to remove offensive or blasphemous material, according to a media report on Saturday. The blacklisting of Wikipedia comes days after the Pakistan Telecom Authority (PTA) degraded Wikipedia services for 48 hours, threatening to block it if the content deemed blasphemous' was not deleted, The News newspaper reported. When a PTA spokesperson was contacted late on Friday night and inquired about the blocking of Wikipedia, the official confirmed that yes it had been blocked, it reported. On the instruction of the high court, the PTA degraded disrupting and slowing access to the encyclopedia website for 48 hours because there was blasphemous content on it. Wikipedia is a free online encyclopedia, created and edited by volunteers around the world and hosted by the Wikimedia Foundation. The PTA spokesperson stated that Wikipedia was approached for blocking/removal of the said content by issuing a notice. Also Read Write, edit, verify: Everything you need to know about how Wikipedia works Wikipedia introduces new features to enhance user experience: Details here Govt summons Wikipedia execs after Arshdeep Singh's page entry changed Online sources such as Wikipedia not completely dependable: SC MeitY may summon Wikipedia execs over false entries to Arshdeep's page India committed to preserving, popularising all culture, traditions: HC California won't require COVID vaccine to attend schools Feds say cyberattack caused outage of 988 suicide helplines in US Another Chinese surveillance balloon transiting Latin America: Pentagon Tesla's Elon Musk listens while vilified, hailed as tweet trial ends An opportunity for a hearing was also provided; however, the platform neither complied by removing the blasphemous content nor appeared before the authority. Given the intentional failure on part of the platform to comply with the directions of PTA, the services of Wikipedia were degraded for 48 hours with the direction to block/remove the reported contents. The restoration of Wikipedia's services will be reconsidered if the reported unlawful content is blocked/removed, the spokesman said. Social media giants Facebook and YouTube have been blocked in the past over content deemed blasphemous. Blasphemy is a sensitive issue in Muslim-majority Pakistan. By Azernews Fatima Hasanova Azerbaijani Defense Minister Col-Gen Zakir Hasanov participated in the Distinguished Visitors Day, held as part of the international Winter Exercises-2023 in Turkiye, Azernews reports per the ministry. Zakir Hasanov attended the event at the invitation of his Turkish counterpart Hulusi Akar. After reviewing the report on the Winter Exercises-2023, the defense ministers got acquainted with the new generation of equipment, and also inspected the exercises logistic unit. Then, the military personnel from Azerbaijan and the other 17 participating nations showed that they could complete various tasks under adverse weather and difficult terrain conditions. At the conclusion, speeches were given to the observers and other dignitaries by the national defense ministers of Azerbaijan, Turkiye, and Georgia. During the exercises held from January 18 to February 3 of this year, the members of the Separate Combined-Arms Army of Naxcivan exclave represented Azerbaijan with the utmost professionalism. Delhi BJP MLAs staged a sit-in outside Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's residence on Friday to protest against the non-payment of salaries and allowances for the last five months in 12 colleges of the Delhi University that are managed by the AAP government. BJP MLAs raised questions on said Kejriwal government's education model, arguing that professors and non-teaching staff of these 12 colleges are in "miserable condition". They demanded that the UGC should take over all these colleges as the "Kejriwal government is not giving grants to these colleges". The protest, led by Leader of Opposition Ramvir Singh Bidhuri, was attended by MLAs Mohan Singh Bisht, Omprakash Sharma, Anil Vajpayee, Ajay Mahawar and Abhay Verma. Bidhuri said that the development of these 12 colleges has come to a complete halt. Even the staff is not getting medical facility, and all other allowances have also been stopped. He further said that in these 12 colleges managed by the Delhi government, there are guest teachers, contract employees and temporary employees, who hardly get Rs 12,000 to Rs 15,000 per month. "Imagine what would be their condition if they were not being paid their salaries for 5 months." Also Read Ankita Bhandari murder case: 3 key accused remanded in SIT custody SIT will continue to probe TRS MLAs poaching case, says Telangana HC Indian employees likely to see bigger salary hike in 2023, says report Maruti Suzuki India's pending orders rise to around 405,000 units in Jan SIT to investigate gang-rape charge against senior officials in Andaman Adani row: Opposition wants a probe while govt gets into defensive mode Lok Sabha adjourned amid opposition's protests over Adani Group issue Oppn's demand for JPC probe into Adani issue not justified: Jethmalani Adani vs Hindenburg: Opposition seeks JPC or SC-monitored probe Not a people-friendly Union Budget, says PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti He said that the staff of these 12 colleges are "now suffering badly and the only permanent solution is that the UGC should take over these colleges as the Kejriwal government has completely failed in managing these colleges". --IANS dr/sha Nationalist Congress Party leader Ajit Pawar said on Friday that the reason for the discord between him and then Maharashtra Chief Minister Prithviraj Chavan was that the latter had no experience of the state's politics. Pawar was deputy chief minister when Chavan headed the Congress-NCP alliance government between 2010 and 2014. Asked about the talk of discord between him and Chavan during an interview at an event organised by the Lokmat media group here, Pawar said Chavan had never worked even as an MLA in the state as he was mostly based in Delhi. "Prithviraj Chavan had never worked as an MLA here. He was not aware of what kind of treatment we had received from people in the power....He had no experience of the state cabinet," the NCP leader said. "He had been working in the PMO and there is a difference between the state politics and politics in Delhi," Pawar added. Chavan, who was a minister in the Manmohan Singh government, became chief minister after Ashok Chavan resigned over the Adarsh scam allgations. Even though the NCP and Congress were allies, certain issues cropped up and as a result "some people" felt proximity to political rivals while the NCP appeared as "remote" to them, Pawar further said. It led to the defeat of the Democratic Front government in 2014, he said. Asked what was his party's biggest mistake in the past, Pawar said it was the decision not to claim the chief minister's post in 2004 even though the NCP had won more seats than the ally Congress. Leaders like him had to accept the decision as they were "junior" in the party then, Pawar added. The Civil Aviation Ministry has drawn up plans to boost air connectivity by taking the total number of airports operating in the country to over 200 over the next five-six years under its vision of increasing the 'width and depth of air penetration,' Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia said here on Saturday. Scindia, here on a brief visit, said in its 67 years of independence the country saw only 74 new airports being built while in the last 8.5 years it has been increased to 147 under the Prime Minister Narendra Modi rule. "We are just one short of doubling that number. The 148th airport will be also completed this month itself which means that what India took 66-67 years to build and under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi that has been done in a period of nine years." he told reporters. Scindia said the Ministry has envisaged to take the number of airports operating in the country to over 200 in the next five to six years. "Another 50 additional airports, waterdromes and heliports have been sanctioned in the budget (presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman). Under UDAAN scheme, we were building 100 airports and now we will build 150 airports, waterdromes and heliports in the next couple of years to come," he said. Stressing that the air connectivity in the country cannot be focused only by expanding international routes, he said air connectivity should be expanded to tier-II and III cities. Also Read Scindia to execute power show during Amit Shah's Gwalior visit on Oct 16 Govt to augment manpower, capabilities of regulators DGCA, BCAS: Scindia India's civil aviation to see phenomenal, healthy growth: Scindia India to see 400 mn air travellers in 7-10 years, says Jyotiraditya Scindia Jyotiraditya Scindia urges states and UTs to reduce tax on jet fuel Govt displaying its anti-minority policy as 'badge of honour': Chidambaram PM Modi emerges most popular global leader with approval rating of 78% Delhi court discharges Sharjeel Imam, Asif Iqbal in '19 Jamia violence case Budget session: Smriti Irani slams Cong for disrupting Parl proceedings Kejriwal again asks LG to allow Finland visit of Delhi school teachers "Under the Ude Desh Ka Aam Naagrik (UDAN) scheme we have introduced small aircraft scheme last year which will be only sub-20 seater aircraft. These are all not ATRs not Boeing or Airbus not big aircraft. These are sub-20 seater aircraft so that the penetration is down to the grassrootslevel," he said. Scindia said such aircraft were currently being operated in Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, NorthEastern States and advanced landing grounds have been activated on the border of Arunachal Pradesh so that there is 100 per cent penetration. "The 'mantra' of Prime Minister Narendra Modi is that air penetration must encompass across the length and breadth of the country," he said. To a query about the greenfield airport at Parandur near Chennai, he said the Ministry was in discussion with TIDCO (Tamil Nadu Industrial Development Corporation Ltd) and was examining the project proposal. It would issue the 'site' and 'in-principle' approval through the Airport Authority of India and Directorate General of Civil Aviation. "DGCA, AAI have to look into the proposal for new airport to see if there are any obstacles on flight path from safety and security angle. Your question should be directed to the State government," he said while responding to a query about the protest by villagers in Parandur opposing the project. In August 2022, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin said a second airport for the city would come up at Parandur near Sriperumbudur at an estimated Rs 20,000 crore with an annual capacity of 10 crore passengers. Microsoft's new Bing powered by ChatGPT-4 AI will reportedly encourage natural language instead of keyword-driven search terms. The new Bing went live but the company quickly shut it down, reports Windows Central. Luckily, a user named Owen Yin was able to take a few screenshots and test out a few features before his access was removed. According to the screenshots, the new Bing describes itself as a "research assistant, personal planner, and creative partner at your side". The major change between a normal web search engine and the new AI-powered Bing is that the search bar is now a chat box, which is larger in size. Users will be able to ask the search engine for specific topics or ideas and even ask for its opinion. Also Read Google announces to show users suggested keywords under Search bar Google Chat lets users filter search results with search chips on web Google's new update cuts 'low-quality, unoriginal' content in Search result Google improves Gmail search, Chat with search labels, related results Google adds 'Search Status Dashboard' to provide real-time service outages Tech giant Apple may launch 'HomePod mini 2' in 2024, says analyst YouTube releases 'Go Live Together' for creators to co-stream on phone Google to host event about artificial intelligence on February 8 Twitter expands Blue subscription service to 6 more countries: Reports YouTube Shorts now averaging over 50 bn daily views: Sundar Pichai Moreover, it is expected that new Bing will also allow users to search the web traditionally if someone prefers using keywords in the search box, the report said. --IANS aj/ksk/ Uptime Institute, the Global Digital Infrastructure Authority, a Dominus Capital, L.P. portfolio company, announced today that it has completed its acquisition of Academia Group Limited and all of its global subsidiaries including CNet Training, Ltd. CNet Training, located in Bury Saint Edmunds, Suffolk, England, is an International award-winning technical education company. CNet Training has been designing and delivering professional network and data center infrastructure training programs since 1996 and has trained over 83,000 data center professionals across 45 countries. The data center industry is one of the fastest growing markets in the world. The continued, extraordinary industry expansion requires a growing and diverse workforce, however concerns over the industrys ability to attract, educate, and retain skilled technical staff persist. This acquisition will help our respective customers thrive in a rapidly changing ecosystem, by giving them access to a range of world class corporate learning and development technical education programs that are backed up by practical experience and specialized domain expertise, said Martin V. McCarthy, CEO, Uptime Institute. CNet Training dramatically extends the range and depth of Uptime Education offerings and positions Uptime as the Learning & Development partner of choice around the world. The combined offerings will include solutions valuable for every point in a career for a digital infrastructure professional. This includes entry level staff, even adolescents in apprenticeships, to post graduate degrees in Data Center Leadership for savvy, long serving professionals. We are excited to join the accelerating Uptime team. CNet Training was already growing quickly, but now will have many more opportunities through further geographic expansion, and new service offerings, as a part of Uptime. As we look forward to this next phase, I want to personally thank all our clients, staff, and investors who have supported us over these past 26 + years of delivering unique value and in bringing ongoing innovation to the Digital Infrastructure Education market, said Andrew Stevens, CEO of CNet Training. Uptime Institutes Intelligence team recently completed a market research study indicating the number of staff needed to design, build, and operate data centers will continue to grow globally from about 2.0 million in 2019 to nearly 2.3 million by 2025. A wide range of specialist jobs (230 detailed in Uptime Institute Data Center Career Pathfinder, developed in association with Google, Meta & Microsoft) are required by the sector to support its continued expansion. The combination of Uptime Institute and CNet Training will directly address the evolving training needs of all current and future data center employees as they progress through their careers. Bob Haswell, Founding Partner at Dominus Capital, added, This first acquisition for Uptime under Dominus ownership will further establish Uptime Education as the unparalleled leader in Digital Infrastructure Education around the world. Uptime is the undisputed market leader worldwide, with results-oriented solutions for both providers and consumers of services delivered through mission critical data center, the true digital foundries, and factories of the Internet economy. The ongoing availability, resiliency, sustainability, security, and business value of these key infrastructure building blocks still overwhelmingly depend on the quality and capabilities of the workforces that operate them, and the skill, training and education of each individual team member. Uptime Institute continues to identify and assess potential add-on acquisitions to broaden its offering and continue to execute on its mission to help data center owners, operators, and tenants ensure resilient, available, sustainable, and secure digital infrastructure. About Uptime Institute Uptime Institute is the Global Digital Infrastructure Authority. For over 25 years, the company has established industry-leading benchmarks for data center performance, resilience, sustainability, and efficiency, which provide customers assurance that their digital infrastructure can perform across a wide array of operating conditions at a level consistent with their business needs. Uptimes Tier Standard is the IT industrys most trusted and adopted global standard for the design, construction, and operation of data centers the backbone of the digital economy. With its Tier Standard and Certifications, Management & Operations reviews, SCIRA-FSI financial sector risk assessment, broad range of additional risk and performance assessments, Intelligence research services, and accredited training courses completed by over 10,000 data center professionals, Uptime has helped thousands of companies in over 100 countries to optimize critical IT assets while managing costs, resources, and efficiency. Uptime Institute is headquartered in New York, NY, with offices in London, Sao Paulo, Dubai, KSA Singapore, and Taipei. For more information, please visit www.uptimeinstitute.com. About CNet Training CNet Training (CNet) has been delivering technical education programs since 1996. Today CNet is the global leader in technical education for the digital infrastructure industry, comprising the data center and network infrastructure sectors and is the only industry dedicated education provider to award both internationally recognized qualifications and professional certifications. A significant part of CNet Training s history is the development of the highly acclaimed Global Digital Infrastructure Education Framework, which offers industry professionals an opportunity to plan technical education, qualifications, and certifications to meet on-going individual and business needs. Since CNets inception it has delivered training across 218 delivery locations in 45 countries and in 19 time zones. Over 83,000 individuals of 153 different nationalities have accessed CNet Trainings technical education. For more information, please visit www.cnet-training.com About Dominus Capital, L.P. Based in New York, Dominus Capital is a leading middle-market private equity investment firm focused on management-led buyouts and growth capital investments in family-owned and founder-operated companies in the business services and light manufacturing sectors. Drawing on the experience, knowledge and network of its founders and a team of in-house operating executives, Dominus works hand-in-hand with exceptional management teams to unlock the untapped potential of its portfolio companies. Recently named one of the top 50 middle market private equity firms, Dominus takes a long-term approach to investing and has a consistent and highly successful track record of achieving significant growth at its portfolio companies. The Dominus team has executed more than 90 transactions over the past 20+ years. For more information, please visit www.dominuscap.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230203005099/en/ The man suspected of being Zimbabwes most prolific serial killer, Bright Zhantali, is among 465 inmates committed to Chikurubi Maximum Security Prisons psychiatric unit, who are undergoing either clinical management or medical evaluation to determine the state of their mental health. The Sunday Mail has gathered that about 408 inmates committed to the unit have been classified as criminal mental patients (CMPs), which means their criminal cases are still pending before the courts. The rest have been classified as detained mental patients (DMPs), a classification reserved for convicted criminals with psychiatric disorders. About 55 percent of those housed in the unit were involved or are suspected of having committed offences such as murder and attempted murder, while 45 percent are either facing charges or have been convicted of serious offences such as rape and armed robbery. Zhantali is accused of raping and killing 23 women during a year-long reign of terror that spanned Marondera, Goromonzi, Rusape, Mutare and Macheke. The suspected serial killer, who hails from Dandamera Township in Concession, Mashonaland Central Province, is believed to have confessed to most of the murders, even suggesting that he may have killed more people. He is suspected of having committed seven murders between January and March last year. The Chikurubi prison psychiatrist, Chief Superintendent Christopher Njanjeni, said: Yes, I can confirm that Zhantali is in the Chikurubi psychiatric unit, undergoing observation and treatment. We currently have 465 mental patients in our psychiatric unit against a carrying capacity of 150 patients. We have two categories of psychiatric patients criminal mental patients and detained mental patients. Currently, we have a total of 465 mental patients, of which 408 are CMPs and 57 are DMPs. He said inmates were only committed to the unit on the orders of a magistrate. These people are there for medical investigations after a special ruling by a magistrate when an accused person starts to develop signs of mental illness. When a prisoner starts showing signs of mental health problems, the officer-in-charge of the prison reports the case to the nearest magistrate. A special board of professionals will then sit to determine whether the patient can be confirmed to be mentally disturbed, in consultation with professional psychiatric medical practitioners. He said the inmates are under the care of specially trained security officers. On treatment, our manual is the Mental Health Act, which dictates how mental patients are treated, in line with national and international guidelines. We have officers who provide physical security and medical staff, who are involved in the management and dispensing of treatment drugs. We also have psychologists, who continuously monitor and provide psychological support to the patients. The unit, he said, was presently beset by a range of challenges, including inadequate accommodation and clothing for inmates, as well as power outages. Medication for the inmates is also a challenge. We are currently using first-generation drugs to manage the patients because the modern second-generation drugs are not available. Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service (ZPCS) national spokesperson Chief Superintendent Meya Kanyezi said there are plans to expand Chikurubis psychiatric unit. Those who are willing can come on board to help us and the mental patients. These inmates are our brothers, sisters and also Zimbabweans like us, she said. When a person is detained, we expect society to visit him or her. When people are sentenced and detained, relatives usually desert them and that is also the case with mental health patients in our custody. Society and relatives must visit the patients and bring them goodies from home, which also helps as a form of therapy because, as you know, as ZPCS, we take a correctional approach to the rehabilitation of prisoners. National Prosecuting Authority spokesperson Ms Angeline Munyeriwa said the authority was guided by the Mental Health Act when dealing with matters pertaining to mental illness or suspected mental illness in accused persons. Where an inmate is on remand awaiting trial or during the course of a trial exhibits signs of mental illness and it is brought to the attention of the prison authorities or the knowledge of the prosecutor, the prison authorities or the prosecutor is enjoined in terms of Section 27 (of the Mental Health Act) to report the fact to the magistrate, she said. The magistrate will then make an order directing the accused person be examined by two doctors. The examination is meant to inquire into the accuseds state of mind. If the doctors make the same finding that the accused is not suffering from mental illness, then there will be no need for a further examination or psychiatric examination. However, if both doctors conclude that the accused person is showing signs of mental illness, then the accused person will be detained in an institution designated for such a purpose for further care and management by a psychiatrist. But, if the doctors arrive at contradictory conclusions, an opinion from a third medical practitioner will be sought, and the court will be guided by the three reports. Only the medical experts are qualified to make a finding that an accused person is genuinely suffering from a mental illness. Sunday Mail A Form Three learner at Maranatha High School in Bulawayo reportedly collapsed and died during sports, CITE has established. The incident occurred yesterday. Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education Director of Communications and Advocacy, Taungana Ndoro confirmed the incident although he could not immediately confirm her name. I confirm the incident happened, they were just having a routine spotting event and she collapsed, said Ndoro. We pass our condolences to the family of the deceased including the school and the community where she grew up. Bulawayo police spokesperson Inspector Abednico Ncube said they were investigating the matter. CITE Unfortunately, our website is currently unavailable in your country. We are engaged on the issue and committed to looking at options that support our full range of digital offerings to your market. We continue to identify technical compliance solutions that will provide all readers with our award-winning journalism. Well, it took Geely Philippines long enough. About two years after we said they needed a sub-compact crossover to penetrate the local market... Photo: The Canadian Press UPDATE 10:55 a.m. A huge, high-altitude Chinese balloon sailed across the U.S. on Friday, drawing severe Pentagon accusations of spying and sending excited or alarmed Americans outside with binoculars. Secretary of State Antony Blinken abruptly canceled a high-stakes Beijing trip aimed at easing U..S.-China tensions. The cancelation came despite Chinas claim that the balloon was a weather research airship that had blown off course. The Pentagon rejected that out of hand and China's contention that the balloon, about the size of two school buses, was not being used for surveillance and had only limited navigational ability. The balloon was detected earlier over sensitive military sites in Montana but had moved eastward over the heartland of the central United States by midday and was expected to remain in U.S. airspace for several days, officials said. The development marked a new blow to already strained U.S.-Chinese relations that have been in a downward spiral for years over numerous issues. Still, U.S. officials maintained that diplomatic channels remain open and that Blinken was willing to travel to China at an appropriate time. President Joe Biden declined to comment on the matter when questioned at an economic event. Two 2024 reelection challengers, former President Donald Trump, and Nikki Haley, the former South Carolina governor and U.N. ambassador, said the U.S. should immediately shoot down the balloon. Discovery of the balloon was announced by Pentagon officials who said one of the places it was spotted was over the state of Montana, which is home to one of Americas three nuclear missile silo fields at Malmstrom Air Force Base. A senior defense official said the U.S. prepared fighter jets, including F-22s, to shoot it down if ordered. The Pentagon ultimately recommended against that, noting that even as the balloon was over a sparsely populated area of Montana, its size would create a debris field large enough to put people at risk. Brig. Gen. Pat Ryder, Pentagon press secretary, refused to say on Friday whether there was any new consideration of shooting the balloon down. Ryder said it was at an altitude of about 60,000 feet, was maneuverable and had changed course. He said it currently was posing no threat. A number of GOP lawmakers have criticized the administration for not taking firmer action against China. And a decision for Blinken to proceed with his trip could have made Biden even more susceptible to their complaints at a time hes starting to deal with the new Republican-led U.S. House. Blinken had been prepared as late as Thursday to travel to Beijing this weekend, but the administration began to reconsider the trip following the detection of the balloon on Wednesday, even before its presence was made public, one official said. The official, who spoke to reporters on condition of anonymity due to the sensitivity of the matter, said the administration had noted China's expression of regret but concluded that the seriousness of the violation of U.S. airspace, sovereignty and international law was such that Blinkens trip could not go forward as planned. Weather experts said China's claim that the balloon had gone off course was not unfeasible. Chinas account of wind patterns known as the Westerlies carrying a balloon to the western United States was absolutely possible - not possible, likely, said Dan Jaffe, a professor of atmospheric chemistry at the University of Washington. Still officials called the presence of the balloon unacceptable and one said that message had been delivered by Blinken to Chinese State Councilor Wang Yi on Friday. ORIGINAL 6:35 a.m. China said Friday that a balloon spotted over American airspace was used for weather research and was blown off course, despite U.S. suspicion it was spying. The discovery further strained already tense relations between Beijing and Washington. The Pentagon decided not to shoot down the balloon, which was potentially flying over sensitive sites, because of concerns of hurting people on the ground. The news came as U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken was expected to make his first trip to Beijing this weekend. The visit has not been formally announced, and it was not immediately clear if the balloon's discovery would affect his travel plans. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said she had no information on the trip. Blinken would be the highest-ranking member of President Joe Bidens administration to visit China, on a mission to mitigate a sharp downturn in relations between the countries amid trade disputes and concerns about Beijings increasingly aggressive stance toward Taiwan and in the South China Sea. In a statement late Friday, the Chinese Foreign Ministry said the balloon a was civilian airship used mainly for meteorological research. The ministry said the airship has limited steering capabilities and deviated far from its planned course because of winds. The Chinese side regrets the unintended entry of the airship into U.S. airspace due to force majeure, the statement said, citing a legal term used to refer to events beyond one's control. On Thursday, a senior American defense official told Pentagon reporters that the U.S. has very high confidence that the object spotted over U.S. airspace in recent days was a Chinese high-altitude balloon and that it was flying over sensitive sites to collect information. One of the places the balloon was spotted was Montana, which is home to one of the nations three nuclear missile silo fields at Malmstrom Air Force Base. The official spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss sensitive information. The defense official said the U.S. has assessed that the balloon has limited value in terms of providing intelligence that couldnt be obtained by other technologies, such as spy satellites. It was not clear what will happen with the balloon if it isnt brought down. Pentagon press secretary Brig. Gen. Patrick Ryder said Thursday that similar balloon activity has been seen in the past several years and the government has taken steps to ensure no sensitive information was stolen. He said the balloon was traveling well above the height commercial aircraft fly at and didn't present a threat to people on the ground. Biden was briefed and asked the military to present options, according to a senior administration official, who was also not authorized to publicly discuss sensitive information. The senior defense official said the U.S. prepared fighter jets, including F-22s, to shoot down the balloon if ordered. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin and Army Gen. Mark Milley, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, advised against taking kinetic action because of risks to the safety of people on the ground. Biden accepted that recommendation. Even though the balloon was over a sparsely populated area of Montana, its size would create a debris field large enough that it could have put people at risk. The defense official would not specify the size of the balloon but said commercial pilots could spot it from their cockpits. The balloon was first reported by NBC News. A photograph of a large white balloon lingering over the area was captured by The Billings Gazette. It could be seen drifting in and out of clouds and had what appeared to be a solar array hanging from the bottom, said Gazette photographer Larry Mayer. The balloon's appearance adds to national security concerns among American lawmakers over China's influence in the U.S., ranging from the prevalence of the hugely popular smartphone app TikTok to purchases of American farmland. Chinas brazen disregard for U.S. sovereignty is a destabilizing action that must be addressed, Republican Party House Speaker Kevin McCarthy tweeted. Tensions with China are particularly high on numerous issues, ranging from Taiwan and the South China Sea to human rights in Chinas western Xinjiang region and the clampdown on democracy activists in Hong Kong. Not least on that list of irritants are Chinas tacit support for Russias invasion of Ukraine, its refusal to rein in North Koreas expanding ballistic missile program and ongoing disputes over trade and technology. On Tuesday, Taiwan scrambled fighter jets, put its navy on alert and activated missile systems in response to nearby operations by 34 Chinese military aircraft and nine warships that are part Beijings strategy to unsettle and intimidate the self-governing island democracy. Twenty of those aircraft crossed the central line in the Taiwan Strait that has long been an unofficial buffer zone between the two sides, which separated during a civil war in 1949. Beijing has also increased preparations for a potential blockade or military action against Taiwan, which has stirred increasing concern among military leaders, diplomats and elected officials in the U.S., Taiwans key ally. This service applies to you if your subscription has not yet expired on our old site. You will have continued access until your subscription expires; then you will need to purchase an ongoing subscription through our new system. Please contact The Chanute Tribune office at 620-431-4100 if you have any questions One of the Top Touring Artists of the Pollstar Era, Jeff Dunham, will be at Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Auditorium on March 3 and 4 as part of his current tour. Shows will be 7 p.m. on Friday and 5 p.m. on Saturday. Tickets are $53.50. His publicist says Dunham "has consistently delivered laughs and shattered ratings with his broadcast specials, global tours, and a best-selling autobiography.His successes have been commemorated with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame as well as the Guinness Book of World Records for "Most tickets sold for a stand-up comedy tour," cementing the ventriloquist as a comedy icon. last broadcast, Jeff Dunhams Completely Unrehearsed Last-Minute Pandemic Holiday Special in 2020. This marks a triumphant return to television for the comedy superstar, and he and his cast of world-famous characters now announce the launch of their 2022-2023 tour, Still Not Canceled." Dunhams new one-hour Comedy Central Special, Me the People, premiered on November 25, 2022 and became the networks highest rated stand-up special since hisbroadcast, Jeff Dunhams Completely Unrehearsed Last-Minute Pandemic Holiday Special in 2020. This marks a triumphant return to television for the comedy superstar, and he and his cast of world-famous characters now announce the launch of their 2022-2023 tour,." Dunhams North American trek kicked off Dec. 28 and includes 44 cities. After 18 years of working comedy clubs, building to theaters and ultimately to arenas, Dunham has secured his status as a global touring star, playing live to over 7,250,000 people with 1,390 performances from June 2007 through May 2022, earning the title of Billboards Top Comedy Tour for three consecutive years. Dunham has completed nine international tours, with shows in more than 20 countries, including arenas in Canada, U.K., Switzerland, Holland, Belgium, Norway, Denmark, Sweden, France, Australia, New Zealand, United Arab Emirates, Israel, Malaysia, Singapore and South Africa (where he is the highest-selling international comedian). Of note, Dunham sold over 12,000 tickets in the city of Amsterdam alone, and over two percent of the countrys population attended his performance in Iceland. The man Slate called Americas favorite comedian has 11 record-breaking comedy specials to his credit and holds four of the top-five, highest-rated programs on Comedy Central: Minding the Monsters (2012) and Controlled Chaos (2011) were the networks most viewed specials of their respective years, Jeff Dunhams Very Special Christmas Special (2008) captured the title of Comedy Centrals highest rated program ever to date, Jeff Dunhams Completely Unrehearsed Last Minute Pandemic Holiday Special (2020) marked Comedy Centrals highest-rated special in five years, garnering over 4 million views in just five days, surpassing Dunhams own Unhinged in Hollywood (2015) special. Dunhams latest Comedy Central special, Me the People, continues this unprecedented Jeff Dunham trend. Amassing 2.8 million viewers on its debut, delivering the best performance in its time-period since Dunhams 2020 special debut, Me the People is cables most watched comedy special of 2022. As a way of giving back while on tour, Dunham and his wife Audrey created the Jeff Dunham Family Fund, and through their organization, a portion of every ticket sold is given to various charities and charitable organizations of all kinds. Tour Stops: Ronald Alonzo Durham II, was born on January 9, 1985, at Eisenhower Army Medical Center at Fort Gordon, Ga., to Ronald Alonzo and Joyce Marie Durham. Ronald, who was lovingly called Ronnie at an early age, fell in love with Jesus and served in the church. His grandmother, Mother Maybelle Harris-McDowell was very instrumental in instilling her love of God and the church in Ronnie. As she played the piano, he would sing in church and at home. One of their favorite songs to sing was Through it all. I have learned to trust in Jesus. I've learned to trust in God. Ronnie trained to be an usher as he was taught that whatever his hands found to do, do it as unto the Lord. He also sang in the Sunshine Band. Ronnie was a very old soul from his youth and throughout his adult life. As a child, he had Great Faith, even into his adulthood. Ronnie continued in his faith in God and because of his faith in God, people would stop by the house and ask him to pray for them at times. When he would be outside playing, people in the neighborhood who affectionately called him Preacher would stop and ask him to pray for them. Ronnie's favorite scripture was Mark 11:23-24, For verily I say unto you, that Whosoever shall say unto this mountain, be thou removed, and be thou cast into the sea, and shall not doubt in his heart, but shall believe that those things which he has said should come to pass, he shall have whatsoever he said. Therefore, I say unto you, what things soever you desire, When you pray, believe that you receive them, and you shall have them. Ronnie was a very inquisitive child. He asked questions from sun up to sundown. He asked questions about God, questions about life, questions about things he saw and anything he experienced. People used to ask his mother, Why does he ask so many questions? Then they would say, why don't you stop him from asking so many questions? In his moms own voice, she would say, Baby, ask whatever you want to know, whenever you want to know. Many years later, his mom would realize he needed all those answers to help others with all their questions. Ronald graduated with honors from Brainerd High School. During high school, he was a great leader and very active in the ROTC program. When he was a junior in high school, he went through basic training and AIT at Fort Benning, GA, where he trained as an Automated Logistics Specialist. After Ronald's High School graduation, he attended Alabama A&M University and continued in the ROTC program. He was later honorably discharged. Ronald was employed at McKee Foods for many years before joining Gestamp and being promoted to 3rd Shift Materials Supervisor last year. Ronald was preceded in death by his grandmothers, Mother Maybelle Harris-McDowell and Mother Marylou Brown; grandfather, Elder Henderson McDowell. Ronald was a great father and will be sorely missed by his two sons, Omari Tashawn Middleton and Jakhi Alonzo Durham. Ronald also leaves to cherish his memory, his mother, Joyce Marie Durham of Chattanooga; father, Ronald Alonzo Durham of Jacksonville, FL; stepfather, Robert Ellison, Jr. of Chattanooga; sisters, Joycelyn Durham and Precious Ellison; brothers, Albert Durham, Robert Ellison, and Harrison Ellison, all of Chattanooga, and Ron Durham of Jacksonville, Fl. He also leaves his aunts, Tawana Smith of Oak Park, Mi., Cynthia Brown of Virginia, Nadine Holmes of Columbus, Oh., Brenda Reid of San Francisco, Ca.; uncles, Walter (Phyllis) Anderson of Martinez, Ga., Michael (Melinda) Reid, Timothy (Sharon) Reid of Jacksonville, Fl.; great aunt, Beatrice Bridges of Columbus. OH; great uncle, Emmanuel Harris of Miami, Fl.; his nieces, D'Asia, Me'Shiah, Bella, Madison, and Aaliya; nephews, Kyran, Jr, Kingston, Keyshawn, AJ, Kaelon, Riley, Kofi, Yashawn, and TJ, a host of cousins, other relatives and friends. Public viewing will be held from 10 a.m.-12 p.m. on Monday, Feb. 6, at Greater Community Church of God in Christ, 1817 E 3rd Street, followed by 12 p.m. funeral service. Interment will be in Beautiful Greenwood Cemetery. The service will livestream from the Churchs Facebook page and YouTube Channel Greater Community Church of Chattanooga COGIC. Arrangements are by John P. Franklin Funeral Home, 1101 Dodds Ave., 423 622-9995. Tabyana Ali has been playing Trina Robinson on General Hospital for almost a year. She took over the role after Sydney Mikayla stepped down in March 2022. Trina is the daughter of Portia Robinson and Marcus Taggert (as far as we know) and is the best friend of Josslyn Jacks. The character is also one half of the couple nicknamed Sprina alongside with Spencer Cassadine. Mikayla was very popular in the role, and fans were upset when she left the soap to attend college full-time. They were big shoes to fill, but Ali has made Trina her own. It is not the first time Ali needed to be strong, as she discussed with co-star Maurice Benard, who plays Sonny Corinthos on the soap opera. Tabyana Ali experienced racism at just 5 years old Benard welcomed Ali as a guest on his popular State of Mind podcast, where the 20-year-old told him she grew up in a small town near San Antonio, Texas. She described it by saying, San Antonio is a very diverse area, and theres a lot of culture therebut where I grew up, I was kinda like the only black kid. She said she grew up with mostly white and Hispanic people and joked that her family was the Black-ish family. I think my first set of racism was when I was 5, the actor told Benard. She explained that because she was so young, she didnt really know and didnt comprehend racism back then. How Tabyana Ali handled racism in school General Hospital star Tabyana Ali | Craig Sjodin/ABC via Getty Images Ali said that growing up, she knew she was different but didnt care. She called herself a small, feisty, funny kid, and she didnt let anyone push over on her like that. Ali grew thick skin in that environment. She did emphasize that she wasnt bullied. Ali may have been teased a little but not bullied. She made her way and became the popular kid after a while. Ali was strong and didnt let herself get picked on. She knew how to stand up for herself. The General Hospital actor said the first time she knew she was experiencing racism was in an Ulta Beauty store with her mom. She noticed she was being followed up and down the aisles by a woman working in the store. When she and her mom went to confront the worker, she hid in the back. After that experience, she began to figure out what racism is. Tabyana Ali feels Sprina is important for General Hospital Yesterday at the zoom I asked Nicholas about when he morphs into Spencer because he completely disappears. Tabyana added that she can actually FEEL the energy change when he becomes Spencer. I believe that because Spencer is intense and NAC ALWAYS delivers.#GH #Sprina pic.twitter.com/2nBatfxhPH Jasmine ?? Sprina IS Happening!! (@twin_fangirl) November 21, 2022 Sprina is becoming a much-loved couple on General Hospital. Benard even compared them to the old days of Sonny and Brenda, a huge fan favorite in the 90s. I feel lucky to be in this position, especially for someone who looks like me, Ali stated. She knows it is important to show diversity on soaps, which there wasnt until recently. It means a lot to a lot of little girls like me, she said in the interview. Benard credits the change to producer Frank Valentini, who brought characters like Trina and her family to General Hospital. Jin Will Occasionally Update the Other BTS Member in the Group Chat Worldwide Handsome Jin began his military service, still finding time to post a Weverse picture and message the other BTS members in their group chat. Heres what Jungkook, J-Hope, and V said about the oldest BTS member. BTS Jin enlisted in the South Korean military in December 2022 Jin of boy band BTS attends during the Emergency Declaration VIP Screening at COEX Mega Box | Han Myung-Gu/WireImage via Getty Images Worldwide Handsome Jin is the oldest BTS member, appearing in the vocal line and recently releasing The Astronaut. Shortly after his December Birthday, this idol began his mandatory military service for South Korea. Jin will fulfill his required time with the military by enlisting in the army., a BIGHIT MUSIC statement read. We ask for your continued love and support for Jin until he finishes his military service and comes back. Our company will also strive to provide every support he needs during this time. Jin, real name Kim Seokjin, updated ARMYs on his service sharing a picture of his short hair on Weverse. In the weeks since his enlistment, the other BTS members revealed they still chat with Jin (and they have a group chat). Jin updates the other BTS members in their group chat occasionally, according to Jungkook Even if Jin is away from ARMYs, other BTS members recently spent time with fans online. That includes the youngest member of the group, Jungkook, who answered questions about Jins military service. Jin hyung, Jungkook said during a live stream, according to a Twitter translation. I think Jin hyungs been well. He occasionally sends a message in the group chat. Other BTS members updated ARMYs about Jins well-being. During Vs live stream, he revealed that Jin sometimes pops up to say hello to the K-pop group. J-Hope also mentioned the eldest member during a V Live. Jin hyung, our oldest hyung, went to the military, J-Hope said, according to the same fan translation. Actually, yesterday at night I got a message from him saying J-Hope, answer my call and I was like I didnt know it was your number and it was so nice to hear his voice. Will the other BTS members enlist in the military? After a long debate regarding idols being exempt from mandatory military service, South Korea definitively decided BTS, and other future K-pop performers to come, will still enlist and serve. (Some residents are exempt from conscription due to contributions to their country, including Olympic athletes.) That means Suga, J-Hope, RM, Jimin, V, and Jungkook will enlist in the South Korean military after Jin. According to Forbes, the seven performers are expected to reunite around 2025. In the meantime, BTS members pursued solo projects, with RM releasing Indigo in December 2022. J-Hope performed = (Equal Sign), Chicken Noodle Soup, and Butter (Holiday Remix), in New York City for New Years Eve. For the 2023 Grammy Awards, BTS earned a nomination for their collaboration with Coldplay My Universe. Being a Grammy-nominated rapper is everything Latto ever dreamed of, though things might have looked a little bleak when she walked away from a record deal in her early years. But alls well that ends well, and her chosen path led her to success, including a friendship with a music legend. Lattos impressive net worth shows for it all. Latto | Rich Fury/Getty Images Lattos bio in brief According to Lattos website biography, the ambitious rapper grew up in Atlanta, Georgia, and has been making a name for herself since she was 10 years old, a birthday she celebrated in December 2008. Using the name Miss Mulatto, she joined Lifetimes The Rap Game, competing in its first season in 2016. Legendary rapper Queen Latifah produced the show, hosted by Janet Jacksons ex Jermaine Dupri. The series puts competitors through challenges for a record deal, and Latto won the first season. However, she turned down the offer from Dupri and So So Def Records, which she found unacceptable. She thought she had a better chance of making more money as an independent artist. Lattos rise to fame helped her grow a $2 million net worth After walking away from that So So Def deal and changing her name, Latto began releasing music and gaining traction. In June 2019, she released her first EP, Big Latto, which included the breakout hit B**** From Da Souf. She signed with RCA Records in 2020, and in 2021, she released her biggest hit to date, Big Energy, which, like Mariah Careys Fantasy, sampled Tom Tom Clubs Genius of Love. Carey joined her for a remix, ultimately leading to a sweet connection between the two. According to Celebrity Net Worth, through success in the music industry and a clothing store she owns in Georgia, Latto has amassed a $2 million net worth. On top of it all, she grabbed nominations for two awards at the 2023 Grammy Awards, and Billboard has her pegged to win one. Latto is Billboards choice for Best New Artist winner at the 2023 Grammys Latto is a nominee in two categories at the 2023 Grammy Awards: Best New Artist and Best Rap Melodic Performance. And according to Billboard, Big Energy was by far the biggest hit single from any of [the category] contenders. It reached No. 3 on the Hot 100 in April and [ranked] No. 7 on the year-end Hot 100. Furthermore, Carey helped boost the song on the charts by joining Latto for a remix. Notably, the icon won Best New Artist when she was 20 in 1991. Though shes a favorite to win at least one, Latto told Billboard News the honor of the nominations is everything shes prayed for and dreamed of. When asked if she feels like a new artist since shes been around so long, she said, I feel like Im at a stage where Im relearning myself Its like a fresh start. As for who she thinks will win the award for Best New Artist, she laughingly admitted she couldnt say anyone else but herself. Still, she noted that shes already celebrating the nominations for the achievements they are. Thats the biggest thing ever where Im from, she shared. Everyone has their favorite Nicolas Cage movie, including The Last of Us star Pedro Pascal. Pascal starred with Cage in 2022s The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent before his starring role in the new mega-hit HBO show The Last of Us, one of the biggest shows on tv. Now, The Mandalorian star names the one role of Cages he wouldve loved to play. Before The Last of Us: Pedro Pascals movie and tv roles Beginning in 1996, Pascal spent nearly two decades doing small roles in film and tv (mostly billed as Pedro Balmaceda). His appearances include iconic shows like Buffy the Vampire Slayer, NYPD Blue, Law & Order, Brothers & Sisters, and Homeland. Then, in 2014, Pascal landed the role that would change his career: Oberyn Martell in Game of Thrones Season 4. Viewers will remember how his character came to an end in the series a moment that is hard to unsee, pun intended. One year later, he became Javier Pena in Netflixs Narcos. In 2019, Pascal began starring in The Mandalorian. After a starring role opposite Gal Gadot in Wonder Woman 1984 as the villain, Maxwell Lord, Pascal reprised his role as the Mandalorian in another of the Star Wars franchises series, The Book of Boba Fett. It seems only fitting that Pascals next role was alongside Cage in a movie called The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent. Pedro Pascal on Nicolas Cage and The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent As one of the best-known stars in Hollywood, Cage has played over 100 different characters including, hilariously, himself in 2022s The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent. Starring alongside Cage, Pascal stars as a Cage superfan. In an interview for the film from 2022, Pascal answers burning rapid-fire questions including which of Cages long list of characters Pascal most wishes he could have played. It would be Raising Arizona with the Coen Brothers, for sure, Pascal tells IMDb. He is, of course referring to one of Cages most famous roles as H.I. McDunnough from the 1987 film that has long since become a cult classic. The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent stars Nicolas Cage and Pedro Pascal | Leon Bennett/Getty Images The film follows Cages character H.I. and his wife, Ed (played by Holly Hunter), a childless couple who find more trouble than they imagined after kidnapping a quintuplet. The Raising Arizona cast also included John Goodman, William Forsythe, and Frances McDormand. The film remains one of Cages most beloved films despite his expanding catalog. Pedro Pascal in The Last of Us Interestingly, Pascals Joel in The Last of Us has some similarities to H.I. from Raising Arizona. I caught up on HBOs The Last of Us and its pretty good so far. The fight choreography is perfect, I especially loved the scene where Pedro Pascal throws bricks at clickers for 30 minutes. pic.twitter.com/qMoncBGL01 Ultima | # (@UltimaShadowX) January 23, 2023 Based on the popular video game of the same name, The Last of Us follows Joel, a man who finds himself in an unexpectedly paternal role. Following the outbreak of the Cordyceps fungus, Joel is tasked with delivering a teenager, Ellie (Bella Ramsey), to a facility that plans to use her to create a vaccine. Though Ellie is 14 in the series (Cages H.I. kidnapped an infant), Joel finds his work cut out for him with the sass-talking, teen. So, while he may not have gotten to play H.I. (there are no known reboots in the works for Raising Arizona, but, really, you never know), Pascals role as Joel in The Last of Us will likely be considered among his best just as Cages H.I. is. Oh, the unbearable weight of massive talent. Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have apparently been exiled by the Hollywood elite. At least, thats the claim in the British press after the former royals were majorly snubbed by their new social circle. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex who moved to a multi-million dollar mansion in the luxurious community of Montecito, California, after stepping down as senior working royals didnt score an invite to Oprah Winfreys recent 69th birthday party. Three years after Megxit, it appears that leaving the royal family hasnt paid off for the couple. Meghan Markle and Prince Harry | Chris Jackson Pool/Getty Images Oprah Winfrey scored the first major interview with Prince Harry and Meghan Markle after Megxit One year after Harry and Meghan announced they were leaving the royal family and the United Kingdom and moving to America, the couple sat down with Oprah Winfrey in March 2021 for a tell-all primetime interview. Just a few days before the death of Prince Philip, the Sussexes aired their grievances and told their version of events that led to their exit from The Firm. The interview was filled with accusations from both Harry and Meghan of racism and bigotry against the family, the press, and the British public. This is the interview when Meghan claimed that a member of the royal family had concerns about her son Archies skin color when she was pregnant. This latest snub against the Sussexes proves that leaving the royal family hasnt paid off With a home in Montecito one of the wealthiest and most expensive neighborhoods in the United States Harry and Meghan are living among the Hollywood elite. In fact, they are not far from Winfreys Southern California home. However, when the media mogul recently celebrated her 69th birthday with all of her famous friends, Harry and Meghan didnt make the star-studded guest list. According to social media posts, stars like Kim Kardashian, Jennifer Lopez, Jessica Alba, and Sharon Stone were at the party while the Sussexes were noticeably absent. This was a surprise, considering Meghan has claimed Winfrey is a close friend and confidante. Snubs like this show that the tide is turning with the Sussexes and that the gamble that saw them trade in the lifelong duty of being working royalty for the money and fame of being celebrities hasnt paid off, UK columnist Kara Kennedy wrote, per Express. Prince Harry plus Meghan Markle equals drama The columnist noted that it was easy to see why Winfrey wouldnt want Harry and Meghan at her birthday shindig after the princes latest revelations. During his press tour for his memoir Spare, Kennedy says the duke made Winfrey look stupid because he attempted to walk back the racism allegations that he and Meghan made during their 2021 interview with the talk show queen. In her article, Kennedy also quoted a Hollywood insider who claimed the Sussexes equal drama. The source added that everybody over here is starting to realize that they never intended on having a quiet life. Related Prince Charles Warned Meghan Markle and Prince Harry About This 1 Thing Before Leaving the Royal Family The columnist argued that celebrities are done with Harry and Meghan because they never know where details of their private lives might end up. If Meghan and Harry ever had a chance of cracking the Hollywood scene, staying silent would have been a good option, Kennedy wrote. Spare is now available wherever books are sold. Harry and Meghans docuseries is now playing on Netflix. This Sunday, June 30, 2019, aerial photo released by Earthjustice shows the Alaska's North Slope in the Western Arctic on the edge of Teshekpuk Lake, Alaska. The Biden administration issued a long-awaited study on Wednesday, Feb. 1, 2023, that recommends allowing a major oil development on Alaska's North Slope, and the move while not final drew immediate anger from environmentalists who saw it as a betrayal of the president's pledges to reduce carbon emissions and promote clean energy sources. Have you ever heard the story of Olive Oatman and her sister Mary Ann, two pioneer Mormon girls who lived with Native Americans for five years? Their fascinating tale begins with the Oatman family, who wanted to follow one of the Morman movements, the Brewsterites, to California after the death of Joseph Smith in 1850. On their way to California, the families somehow split up, and the Oatmans were left to travel through Arizona alone. En route, they were attacked by members of a local Native American tribe. It is assumed that it was members of the Yavapais tribe. The majority of the family was killed except for sisters Olive and Mary Ann, who were taken away and treated as slaves by the Yavapais. They were forced to work for them for a year until the tribe decided to trade them to a Mohave group. It was with the Mohaves that the girls were treated more like members of the tribe. They were no longer slaves and even had their chins and upper arms tattooed with cactus ink to indicate that they were tribal members. During their time with the Mohave tribe, Olive and Mary Ann were able to do as they pleased. They lived in a very beautiful area, so different from their time with the Yavapais. The girls were taught how to grow their own crops and were adopted into a family. They strongly bonded with the wife and daughter, Aespaneo and Topeka. Olive and Mary Ann became so accustomed to their new lives with the Mohave tribe that when a group of 200 white railroad workers came to speak to the Mohave tribe in 1854, the girls did not reveal that they had originally been abducted and never asked the men for help. Tragically, around 1855, after a terrible drought, Mary Ann died of starvation. When she was around 19-years-old, a messenger arrived at the Mohave village and requested that Olive be sent to Fort Yuma in California. Sign up for Chip Chicks newsletter and get stories like this delivered straight to your inbox. Satanic Idaho planning Capitol ritual to protest bill criminalizing sex-change surgeries for kids A proposed bill in the Idaho Legislature that would criminalize the chemical castration and bodily mutilation of children and teens is being opposed by a group of satanists. Republican state Rep. Bruce Skaug introduced the Vulnerable Child Protection Act on Tuesday that would make the dispensing of experimental puberty blockers and performing sex-change operations on youth both of which can lead to sterilization a felony. If the bill passes both chambers of the state Legislature and is signed into law by Gov. Brad Little, it would mean anyone convicted of performing such procedures could face up to 10 years in prison, according to the draft legislation, which is co-sponsored by Republican state Sen. Lori Den Hartog. Skaug, a self-described fiscal and social conservative who chairs the Idaho House Judiciary, Rules and Administrative Committee, introduced a similar bill last year, which passed the House before failing in the Senate. Conservative Christian advocacy group Idaho Family Policy Center is partnering with Skaug on the effort for the second consecutive year. While the bill "protects children from harmful pharmaceutical and surgical interventions for the purpose of changing the appearance of a child's sex," the legislation would not interfere with any medically necessary treatments, such as for endometriosis, sex development disorders or some types of cancer, according to a fact sheet released by the Idaho Family Policy Center. The group said in a statement: Five other Republican-led states have enacted laws banning irreversible pharmaceutical and surgical interventions for children struggling with gender dysphoria. Its time for Idaho to follow their lead and make sure we protect vulnerable children in our communities from radical gender ideology. The bill is still awaiting a hearing and must be voted on before moving forward in the Legislature. In response to the draft legislation, a satanic group in Boise is announcing plans to hold a so-called gender affirming ritual at the State Capitol building as part of a protest against the bill. A group calling itself Satanic Idaho is promoting the Hail Yourself: Gender Affirmation Ritual to remind [Idahoans] that not everyone uses religion to condemn, but to accept, according to a flyer on social media. While the details of the ritual are unclear, a page on The Satanic Temple (TST) website describes such a ritual as a religious practice that is used to dispel any shame or stigma surrounding ones gender identity due to religious discrimination or cultural ignorance. Idaho is among some 26 states where more than 80 bills have been introduced to limit or criminalize body-disfiguring sex-change surgery and other procedures for minors. In 2021, Idaho adopted a new law defunding abortion providers and banning them from receiving contracts to teach sex education in public schools, ensuring that no state or local taxpayer dollars are allocated to promote or perform abortion. House Bill 220, known as the No Public Funds For Abortion Act, defunds outfits such as Planned Parenthood but exempts publicly-funded hospitals and allows Medicaid to be used to pay for abortions. The measure also bars school districts and public colleges from entering into contracts for abortion organizations to teach sex education and also stops public colleges and universities from providing drugs to end a pregnancy after conception. 12 Christians killed by radical Fulani herdsmen as Nigeria rises among ranks of worst persecutors ABUJA, Nigeria After authorities in Nigeria ignored warnings that thousands of cattlemen were arriving in Benue state, suspected herdsmen attacked two villages there and killed 12 Christians, sources said. Last Saturday, the assailants attacked Ichembe and Mbaigbe villages in Kwande County and wounded dozens of others, besides destroying houses, crops and farms, said Michael Aondohemba, general coordinator of the Turan Peoples Assembly (TUPA). Before these attackers unleashed their fangs of terror on our hitherto peaceful communities, we had raised early warning alarms on the influx of thousands of herdsmen into the banks areas of River Benue where our communities are located, Aondohemba said. We had called on security agencies to intervene, but no help came, thereby leaving our helpless, poor and innocent people vulnerable. Area resident Joseph Asawa sent Morning Star News a text message stating that the 12 people killed were Christians. The 12 Christians were gruesomely massacred by suspected herdsmen, Asawa said. Many other Christians were displaced from the two communities, and theyre currently taking refuge at Jato-Aka town. Aondohemba of TUPA said that the destruction inflicted on the two villages left no doubt that the assailants were planning further bloodshed in the communities. We are thoroughly pained that these suspected herdsmen have continued to terrorize our communities despite the alarm raised by Christians in the area, Aondohemba said. We view the renewed onslaught against our communities as a scheme aimed at decimating us and gradually entrenching anarchy in our communities. He called on the Nigerian government to urgently come to their aid. Aondohemba identified five of the slain as Tersugh Iorliam, Tersoo Samu, Ngolo Ndera, Ternenge Asaku and Udoji Penda. Seven other Christians killed have had their corpses evacuated to the mortuary in a hospital in the area, he said. A member of Nigerias National Assembly, Bob Tyough, said that entire Christian communities were being destroyed by armed herdsmen and other terrorists while the government seemed incapable of curtailing the carnage. Human life is sacred, and only God who is the supreme Creator has the right to freely take what He gives, Tyough said. It is my belief that those who attack the innocents have no single atom of piety in their heart and therefore should not expect mercy from the supreme Creator. He called on the government to order security agencies to urgently end attacks, and he decried the surge of such atrocities in Benue state. I empathize with families of the Christian victims over the death of their loved ones and want them to take solace in the fact that the fallen ones have only gone to rest with their Creator and at the appointed time will surely rise with Jesus Christ on the judgment day, Tyough said. Nigeria led the world in Christians killed for their faith in 2022, with 5,014, according to Open Doors 2023 World Watch List report. It also led the world in Christians abducted (4,726), sexually assaulted or harassed, forcibly married or physically or mentally abused, and it had the most homes and businesses attacked for faith-based reasons. As in the previous year, Nigeria had the second-highest number of church attacks and internally displaced people. In the 2023 World Watch List of the countries where it is most difficult to be a Christian, Nigeria jumped to sixth place, its highest ranking ever, from No. 7 the previous year. Militants from the Fulani, Boko Haram, Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) and others conduct raids on Christian communities, killing, maiming, raping and kidnapping for ransom or sexual slavery, the WWL report noted. This year has also seen this violence spill over into the Christian-majority south of the nation Nigerias government continues to deny this is religious persecution, so violations of Christians rights are carried out with impunity. Numbering in the millions across Nigeria and the Sahel, predominantly Muslim Fulani comprise hundreds of clans of many different lineages who do not hold extremist views, but some Fulani do adhere to radical Islamist ideology, the United Kingdoms All-Party Parliamentary Group for International Freedom or Belief (APPG) noted in a recent report. They adopt a comparable strategy to Boko Haram and ISWAP and demonstrate a clear intent to target Christians and potent symbols of Christian identity, the APPG report states. Christian leaders in Nigeria have said they believe herdsmen attacks on Christian communities in Nigerias Middle Belt are inspired by their desire to forcefully take over Christians lands and impose Islam as desertification has made it difficult for them to sustain their herds. American tourist arrested for vandalizing Jesus statue at church in Jerusalem: 'You can't have idols' An American tourist has been arrested for vandalizing a statue of Jesus Christ at a church in Jerusalem, reportedly due to his belief that the statue constituted idolatry. A man in his 40s, whose name has not been released to the press, was arrested Thursday after he defaced and broke parts of a statue of Jesus at the Franciscan Church of the Condemnation, a property that includes the Church of the Flagellation. In a video taken at the church, the man could be heard shouting, "you cant have idols in Jerusalem, this is a holy city," Fox News reported. According to tradition, the church was built on the space believed to be where Jesus was flogged by the Roman soldiers back in the first century and presented with a cross to carry. "We take very seriously damage to religious institutions and sites," an Israeli police spokesperson said in a statement. "The police will continue to act against acts of violence and vandalism in the holy places of all religions." Custodia Terrae Sanctae, a Franciscan organization that oversees the care and protection of Catholic Church holy sites in the Middle East, released a statement denouncing the vandalism. The vandalism marked the fifth incident within the last month, according to Custodia Terrae Sanctae, which cited examples of recent vandalism that included attacks on a monastery and a local Christian cemetery. We follow with concern and strongly condemn this growing succession of serious acts of hatred and violence against the Christian community in Israel, added Custodia Terrae Sanctae. It is no coincidence that the legitimization of discrimination and violence in public opinion and in the current Israeli political environment also translates into acts of hatred and violence against the Christian community. The group went on to call upon the Israeli government to act decisively to guarantee security for all communities, to guarantee the protection of religious minorities and to eradicate religious fanaticism. Last month, a group of people believed to be radical Jewish Israelis attacked an Armenian restaurant in the Christian quarter of the city, waving Israeli flags and throwing chairs at patrons. The Assembly of Catholic Ordinaries of the Holy Land denounced the violence leveled against the restaurant, expressing concern over the escalation of violence in the Holy City. This unprovoked violence instilled fear in the shopkeepers and residents of the Christian quarter as well as visitors, stated the Assembly. It is only the latest in a series of episodes of religious violence that is affecting the symbols of the Christian community and beyond. An appeal to Andy Stanley: Stop deconstructing sexuality, ignoring ex-LGBT people A couple of days ago, I noticed ministry friends of mine sharing videos of a well-known pastoral voice, Senior Pastor Andy Stanley of North Point Community Church located in Alpharetta, Georgia. After looking around for the video myself, I discovered the video was an excerpt from the Drive Conference at North Point in 2022. Many people are familiar with this pastor in Georgia. Some of his statements diminishing the authority of Scripture, and his callous jest at Christians who think it more authoritative, led those in the Church to surmise that his issues with biblical authority indicate a much more corrosive theological viewpoint that has not yet been made public. Then, on January 23rd, a short video dropped on Twitter. In the video, Stanley laid out a general example demonstrating the lack of eagerness of straight Christians to serve in his churches when comparing them to the eagerness of the gay men and women he knows, who would serve. This setup statement has no way of being validated and yet appeared to be a two-fold manipulation technique. First, it incentivized his congregation to serve, but also to view homosexuals as a more virtuous community by comparison. It appeared as if Stanley was edifying the gay community and promoting the culture to his congregation while degrading his own church for the moment, a persuasive deconstruction tactic, making it easier for them to adopt his subsequent statements. The video went on a path of pandering to the gay community and their allies in an unscripted rant against the Church. Stanley concluded that gay men and women have more faith than he has and more than a lot of you. It even belittled the Word of God itself by calling scriptures referencing homosexuality clobber passages. His indictment seemed to be: Straight Christians and Gods Word dont measure up here; the gay people I know are better. Such was the theological views that were similar to those views espoused by fallen Exodus leader Alan Chambers and McKrae Game of Hope For Wholeness, which survived past him in another form. Additionally, what message does this send to those struggling with sexual confusion at North Point Church? By Stanleys most recent comments, it seems that they should expect further promotion of slippery, watered-down theology, and they can also expect that anyone adhering to the biblical-historic view on sexual ethics will be castigated as unwelcoming bigots. Over the last few years, congregations in the West have awoken, surprised by their pastors deconstructed theology. Bewildered by their pastors unforeseen animus toward the majority group, matched with an unsurpassed bias for one or two ostracized groups of the pastors choosing, they are left with a trail of spiritual casualties in their wake. But there is good news: Jesus has an answer for us and did not leave us unequipped for this moment. Scripture reminds us: They triumphed over him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony; they did not love their lives so much as to shrink from death (Revelation 12:11). This is not some antiquated Scripture removed from contemporary Christian life; this passage is alive and well in the Church. But it is suppressed through the self-righteous deconstruction and faithlessness of some leaders. Meanwhile, those who have found freedom in Jesus Christ from LGBTQ and victory over their previous identity and lifestyle, have become all too familiar with the internal persecution from legacy lukewarm Christianity spouted by the present-day false teachers, false prophets, and, may I say, wolves-in-sheep's-clothing-pastors. Thankfully, not all Christian leaders or churchgoers are this way there are still many worthy shepherds and sheep in Gods flock. The Bride of Christ has been given a scriptural key to the prison door of LGBTQ socio-political correctness. Overcomers exist within the Church body in all locales. The Andy Stanleys may have forgotten or suppressed the testimony of these faithful believers, in favor of their ostracized group, but Gods sanctifying workmanship has never stopped advancing. As an Overcomer myself, I ask that born-again Christians would quit choosing to stand idly by or even promote homosexuality and cross-identification because your Savior has and is fulfilling His promises in Scripture in the lives of real people. It is abusive to teach a lesser Gospel to LGBTQ-identified people. Instead, love your true spiritual brothers and sisters since that is the evidence that you are the actual Church (John 13:35), and have faith that God has the intention and power to set people free from all sexual immorality and expression, not just your choice sins. If you are interested in learning more about this transformative process that Christ has offered to those who used to go by LGBTQ labels and who lived LGBTQ lifestyles, please visit our ministry websites at: TMAcorp.org, Voiceofthevoiceless.info, or IdentifyMinistries.org. There is an authentic Christian community, more resilient than ever, and waiting for all those impacted by this issue to ally with Christ and reap the rewards of transformation together. Whose fault is a miscarriage?: 'Chosen' season 3 explores painful question posed by Jesus' followers The hit TV series "The Chosen" is tackling some difficult questions in season 3 and the two-part finale, which will be in theaters through Monday, highlights the painful reality of miscarriage and how followers of Jesus wrestle with God over it. Actress Lara Silva plays Simon's wife, Eden. While Simon (who later becomes known as Peter) is away on the mission field with Jesus, she suffers a miscarriage. The dramatic scene was depicted in episode 5 of the new season and Silva said she had to dig deep to portray such a painful event that happens to millions of women worldwide. "It was extremely hard," she told The Christian Post. "I had to really open my heart to, 'Wow, this happens to so many women.' So I dug in and I wanted to hear stories, and I wanted to listen to them. It made me reach out to friends and family that had gone through it. We just don't know how to deal, how to help women when they're struggling and going through that because it's so hard, and it's a traumatic experience when we lose a child." An estimated 23 million miscarriages occur annually worldwide, according to the NIH's National Library of Medicine. Silva, who is newly married, said she herself has never experienced the loss of a child through a miscarriage, but took the storyline seriously. I felt so much responsibility and weight that I was carrying like, 'How am I going to portray this? God chose me for a reason, so I'm going to do the best that I can and help shed light and get to tell the story that happens to so many women, she recalled. Following the airing of the emotional scene, the actress said she received an outpouring of love and messages from women who felt empowered and brave to share their story. That's why I'm so grateful for The Chosen, to write that in because we don't get to see that often in a lot of shows, especially faith-based shows because we don't want to talk about it and make women feel guilty like they did something wrong, and that's not the case, Silva continued. Season 3 highlights various moments where followers of Christ are challenged by not having their prayers answered. The disciple Little James, played by actor Jordan Walker Ross, is portrayed as a disabled follower who has yet to receive healing. The characters Simon and Eden have displayed the marriage dynamic of Christ's followers since the first season, but the newest season showcases the burden that Simon's ministry with Christ has on his wife. I remember in season one, we were hashtag marriage goals and as the struggles come, everybody was like, Oh my goodness, this is real. It's not just we're strong in our faith all the time. Sometimes, one is wavering in their faith more than the other. And so, in season three, it's Eden who is suffering in silence and asking, I've been faithful from day one, I've been a believer since day one and why is this happening to me? Silva explained to CP. After episode 6, Simon is the one left with questions. He's the Messiah; whose fault is this? she echoed. That's so relatable for anyone. Eden was left comforting Simon at the end of episode 6 because she had more time to process her emotions after the miscarriage. Now that Simon knows about it, where does that leave them? Where does that leave their faith together and their faith separately with their relationship with Jesus? It's heavy, but it's incredible and beautiful and just so relatable, she added. She added: "I'm sure we would all love an explanation for some of the hardships that we face. But it takes just so much work in ourselves and our hearts to build that spiritual maturity and leaning in on and seeking God to hear what it is that He's trying to teach me or tell me in this. Silva said believers must know that God can be trusted and although its no one's plan to suffer, the Lord uses everything for good. "He loves us, even when we have doubt and fears, and only Jesus can fill us with hope and peace while we're waiting for our breakthrough spiritually or our own miracle. God does miracles for some, but not others, she continued. "So when that miracle does happen for someone else, and not for you, it takes that spiritual maturity to be genuinely happy for them, and to praise God that that person has been healed or given their miracle that gives life to us while we're in waiting. "The Chosen" is the most successful crowdfunded series of all time with over 400 million views, not counting DVDs while it was still in production. The final two episodes of season three will premiere in more than 2,000 theaters nationwide from Feb. 2-6. "I'm so excited because honestly, the finale, the story that we have [for] the finale and the experience that you'll get to see on the big screen is the miracle feeding of the 5,000. Seeing that is going to be incredible, and then also Simon and Eden. What happens? Does Eden talk to Jesus? Does she go to Him? Does He go to her? What is the resolution? And we might or might not get it still because that's real life, Silva concluded. Tickets are no longer available but seasons 1 through 3 can now be watched on Angel Studios and the new Chosen app. Church tip leads to arrest in case of rare monkeys stolen from Dallas Zoo, police say A Texas church led police to a home where they found rare monkeys and other animals that were stolen from the Dallas Zoo, ultimately arresting a suspect. It all began on Monday when the zoo reported two emperor tamarin monkeys, Bella and Finn, were missing after the animals habitat was intentionally compromised. After searching near and around the habitat, the zoo contacted police, who in turn said there was reason to believe the tamarins were taken. On Monday morning (January 30), Dallas Zoo alerted the Dallas Police Department after the animal care team discovered two of our emperor tamarin monkeys were missing. It was clear the habitat had been intentionally compromised. pic.twitter.com/NzBhIh7xS3 Dallas Zoo (@DallasZoo) January 30, 2023 The following day, the Dallas Zoo announced that Bella and Finn had been located and were being transported back to the zoo. That lead to the arrest Friday of suspect Davion Irvin, 24, after Dallas police said they received a tip that Irvin was seen at the Dallas Aquarium near animal exhibits on Thursday. Dallas World Aquarium employee Paula Carlson told Fox 4 that she spoke with Irvin, who fit the description of the suspect. "He was asking me questions about the animals, and I was answering them, you know, showing him the animals, the shark, the octopus. Just trying to maintain a conversation while I was maintaining a text message with our security people here," she said. After Irvin left the aquarium, Carlson contacted the zoo, and they called police. Officers arrived on the scene and spotted Irvin getting onto a light rail car, and took him in for questioning. Irvin was booked and charged with six counts of non-livestock animal cruelty in connection with the missing monkeys, according to police. Along with stealing the monkeys, he is also suspected of damaging a clouded leopard habitat, for which he will face charges, and killing a vulture. Police said they were tipped off to the monkeys location after the Family Center Church of God in Christ in Lancaster, about 15 miles south of Dallas, discovered the monkeys inside a location next door to their church about 20 miles from the zoo, according to The Dallas Morning News. Tonya Thomas, the daughter of the churchs pastor, Jeffrey Ross, told the outlet that in addition to the monkeys, other animals were discovered at the property, including birds and cats. Thomas did not respond to a request for comment from CP. She told The Dallas Morning News that the property where the animals were found was boarded up to "prevent break-ins while they tried to raise funds to bring the house up to par." "Thomas said her family suspected unusual activity at the community house since just before Christmas. One Sunday, when they went to attend services at their church, her family noticed the door to the community house, normally locked shut, was wide open. Her father, the pastor, walked over and heard music and other noises," The Dallas Morning News added. Irvins arrest could lead to further charges as police investigate a number of incidents at the Zoo in recent weeks involving damage to enclosures and the death of an endangered vulture back on the weekend of Jan. 22. At that time, the Dallas Zoo announced it had implemented increased security measures to keep animals safe. Police said an investigation into all recent incidents at the zoo is still ongoing and could lead to further charges for Irvin. Bella and Finn, meanwhile, are said to be doing well and are expected to return to their zoo habit upon clearing a quarantine period. Believed to be named after German emperor Wilhelm II, emperor tamarin monkeys have long whiskers that sweep back and resemble mustaches. Tamarin monkeys are considered exotic and are offered for sale online for as much as $3,000 per monkey. Tribal Christians recount horrors of devastating spate of attacks carried out by Hindu nationalist mobs 'They would have killed me and my family had I not fled to the jungle' Tribal Christians in the Indian state of Chhattisgarh continue to suffer the aftermath of a series of brutal attacks carried out by Hindu nationalists in recent months, resulting in more than 2,500 Christians becoming homeless and hundreds of homes being vandalized and looted. There wasnt even a time for me to lock the door of my house before I fled to the jungle, the U.S.-based persecution watchdog International Christian Concern quoted a distressed tribal Christian as saying. The ferocity of the attacks has left many Christians feeling traumatized and constantly living in fear, ICC said. They would have killed me and my family had I not fled to the jungle, a survivor, identified only as Pastor Kanan, was quoted as saying. The phone call that I received from my friend saved my life he alerted me about the furious mob that was advancing toward our village Gadhbengal carrying sharp weapons and sticks. A recent report by a fact-finding team said a series of attacks on Christians, who are tribal, or indigenous, took place from Dec. 918, 2022, in numerous villages in the two districts displacing about 1,000 Christians. Their homes were vandalized and their churches and properties were attacked for refusing to re-convert to Hinduism. On New Years Day, an anti-Christian mob of nearly 700 radicals mobilized in the Christian-populated area of Gadhbengal village, and destroyed homes and properties, ICC said, adding that around 200 Christians escaped the mob when they were alerted about rioters heading their way. Later, a video, shared by Global Christian Relief, showed hundreds of protesters armed with rocks, iron rods and wooden sticks attacking the 50-year-old Sacred Heart Church in Narayanpur districts Edka village on Jan. 2. The mob destroyed everything, the church and the presbytery, Sacred Heart parish priest Fr. Jomon Devasia told UCA News at the time. A tense situation prevails here. Two local leaders from the Hindu nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi Rupsai Salam and Narayan Markam were among the accused. Many of those affected also sustained serious injuries in the attack, ICC said. Despite this, some Christians have returned to their villages, while others remain concerned about future attacks. Attacks against tribal Christians have increased since radical Hindu groups launched a campaign in 2020 to stop the countrys tribal, or indigenous, people from converting to Christianity. These groups have been demanding that the government ban those who convert from receiving educational and employment opportunities. Most tribals do not identify as Hindus; they have diverse religious practices and many worship nature. However, the governments Census classifies them as Hindu. In September 2020, tribal villagers vandalized 16 houses belonging to Christians from the same tribe in three separate attacks in Chhattisgarh, forcing most of the Christian women in those villages to flee into jungles for safety at the time. Chhattisgarh is one of several Indian states with anti-conversion laws, and the violence has left the Christian community with little protection or recourse from the government, ICC noted. While Christians comprise only 2.3% of Indias population and Hindus account for about 80%, proponents of such laws say they are needed to crack down on Christians or Muslims forcing or giving money to Hindus to persuade them to convert. These laws typically ban conversion through coercion, allurement, fraudulent practices, marriage or misrepresentation. Hindu nationalist activists and groups have often used the laws to file allegations of forced conversion with police against religious minorities. The burden of proof falls on those accused to prove that conversions were not done in force. ICC earlier quoted a local Christian leader as saying that the ongoing violence in Chhattisgarh had brought back traumatic memories of the attacks in Odisha states Kandhamal district, which is also a tribal-majority district. The leader was referring to August 2008 when radical Hindu nationalists killed at least 39 Christians and destroyed 3,906 homes. These incidents have shocked the entire Christian community in the state, and the sad thing is that the people in authority did not bother to help. The group Release International has predicted that persecution is likely to increase in India, where radical Hindus appear increasingly emboldened by the dominance of the nation's right-wing BJP government. Religious freedom conditions in India have drastically deteriorated in recent years following the election of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the rise of the BJP in 2014, a report by the group said. Mark Houck recalls 'most intimate prayer experience' in FBI custody: 'I was at the foot of Calvary' Catholic pro-life activist Mark Houck, who spent several hours in detention after a highly publicized early-morning arrest last September, said he had the "most intimate prayer experience" of his life while in custody. Houck appeared on Steve Bannon's Real America's Voice program "The War Room" Tuesday, one day after a grand jury in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, acquitted him of Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances (FACE) Act charges. In addition to announcing his intent to sue in response to FBI agents and state troopers descending on his house to arrest him at 6:45 a.m. on Sept. 23, Houck detailed the spiritual experience he had while spending nine hours in detention following his apprehension. Houck's arrest and the indictment was in response to an altercation with an abortion clinic escort near a Planned Parenthood clinic in Philadelphia. Houck told Bannon that upon arriving at the federal building in Philadelphia, he was "shackled at my waist and shackled on my feet." "They put me in a room, a white room, with just a table in it, and they chained me to a table. That seemed a little extreme," Houck said. "I'm shackled on my feet and my waist for six hours." The activist, who is president of the Catholic ministry The King's Men, described the time as "the most intimate prayer experience of my life." "I was at the foot of Calvary," he said. "I was beneath Christ at the cross, and I felt tremendous peace, love and joy." After Houck lamented his shackling as a "pure act of humiliation" and the United States Marshals' treatment of him as "a convicted felon," he elaborated even further on his spiritual experience. Houck acknowledged that the shackles around his bare ankles were "put on pretty tightly" to the point where he could "feel the pain of it." He said, "entering into that pain" was "easy for me." "Being a Catholic Christian man, I just invoked all the saints who I knew were persecuted over the course of their journey, all the martyrs," he said. "I prayed every mystery and decade of the rosary. I prayed every devotional novena I could think of. It was prayer without ceasing; I literally could feel the feathers of my guardian angel. It's the only thing I could do but offer up what I was dealing with for my wife and my children." Houck said he didn't know what was going to happen to his family or if he'd be reunited with them. But he continued to pray. "I felt so much peace because I was so intimate, so close to the cross of Christ that I could take the splinters off that cross," Houck said. "I could feel the sweat of my Lord." Houck said he "felt blessed" and "honored to suffer," saying it was a "great gift in that way." "I knew as I was dealing with this persecution that I was in the will of God, that I knew without a shadow of a doubt that I was in the will of God and that I was right where he wanted me to be," Houck said. As he spent the day in a dark room, Houck said he was "alone with his thoughts" and "alone with my God." Bannon likened the behavior of the FBI agents and state troopers who detained Houck to "the Romans that [were] torturing and persecuting first-century Christians." "Mark Houck was chained like a dog and brought in with all those FBI agents, all those state troopers for one simple reason," Bannon asserted. "He's lived Christianity. He doesn't talk about his religion. He doesn't go to church once a week like most Catholics and most Christians. It is his lived Christianity that brought him to be chained like a dog in that room." After his release from custody, Houck reunited with his family. "We embraced and we prayed and hugged and celebrated our reunion," he said. Houck faced up to 11 years in prison and a fine of up to $350,000 as a result of an encounter that took place outside a Planned Parenthood clinic in Philadelphia on Oct. 13, 2021. While an indictment handed down by the U.S. Department of Justice contended that Houck "twice assaulted a man because he was a volunteer reproductive health care clinic escort," Houck provided a different characterization of what happened. He told Bannon that he "pushed" the Planned Parenthood escort after he continued engaging in conversation with the pro-life activist's then-12-year-old son as they prayed outside the clinic, even after he informed the man that he did not have permission to talk to the child. NJ councilwoman killed, remembered for her 'abiding Christian faith': 'Jesus Christ lit up her life' A black Republican borough council member in New Jersey was found shot to death in her vehicle Wednesday night. Colleagues are remembering her dedication and devout Christian faith. Sayreville Councilwoman Eunice Dwumfour, 30, was found dead just outside of her apartment in her white Nissan SUV with multiple gunshot wounds, according to authorities. Democrat Mayor Victoria Kilpatrick expressed condolences, saying in a statement that Dwumfour was a "dedicated member of our Borough Council who was truly committed to serve all of our residents." New Jersey Republican State Committee Chairman Bob Hugin conveyed his "horror and deepest sorrow at the senseless violence" that claimed Dwumfour's life. "We will remember Eunice for her steadfast dedication to the community, as well as her deep and abiding Christian faith," said Hugin in a statement. "We have the utmost confidence that law enforcement will bring the perpetrators of this heartbreaking tragedy to justice. God Bless Councilwoman Dwumfour and her family." The investigation into the murder includes Sayreville Police, the Middlesex County Prosecutor's Office and the FBI. "We are aware of the investigation into the death of Councilwoman Dwumfour, in Sayreville Wednesday evening," the FBI said in a statement shared with WABC Friday. "We have talked with our local law enforcement partners at the Sayreville Police Department and the Middlesex County Prosecutor's Office. Should they ask us for any assistance, we will do all we can to help their investigation." In a statement Thursday, New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy said the New Jersey State Police will also support the ongoing investigation. "Her career of public service was just beginning, and by all accounts she had already built a reputation as a committed member of the Borough Council who took her responsibility with the utmost diligence and seriousness," Murphy, a Democrat, said. "I send my condolences to Councilwoman Dwumfour's family and friends, her governing body colleagues, and the entire Sayreville community." A native of Newark who was elected to the council last year after unseating a Democrat incumbent, Dwumfour was a single mother who had recently married a pastor from Nigeria. "She was happy with her new husband. It seems. Happy with her daughter, and she was living the life, the American dream. She was a beautiful motivated person," former campaign manager Karen Bailey Bebert told WABC. "I believe her daughter lit up her life. Jesus Christ lit up her life. She was very faithful and driven. She was a shining star." Tampa's 'conversion therapy' ban ruled unconstitutional by federal appeals court A federal appellate court on Thursday struck down Tampa, Florida's ban on sexual orientation change efforts in what religious liberty advocates are cheering as a victory for the First Amendment. A three-judge panel on the 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals sided with Tampa-based family therapist Robert Vazzo and the Christian ministry New Hearts Outreach Tampa Bay in a lawsuit over the citys ban on counselors providing voluntary therapy to minors seeking help with unwanted same-sex attractions. Such therapy is derided by critics as conversion therapy, but proponents contend that banning such practice interferes with the First Amendment rights of the counselors and patients. The city's ban was instituted based on the idea that sexual orientation is an immutable characteristic and a protected class. The court published the opinion in Vazzo v. Tampa, citing a previous 11th Circuit ruling in the case of Otto v. City of Boca Ratondetermining that city and county ordinances banning sexual orientation change efforts (SOCE) were unconstitutional under the First Amendment." The Otto case dealt with a similar ordinance in Boca Raton, Florida. Although Thursdays decision was unanimous, Obama-appointed Judge Robin Rosenbaum indicated that she continued to believe that Otto was wrongly decided. At the same time, she agreed with her Republican-appointed colleagues Ed Carnes and Barbara Lagoa that we are bound by our prior-panel-precedent rule to apply Otto here by ruling in favor of the plaintiffs. The conservative Christian legal organization Liberty Counsel, representing the plaintiffs in the lawsuit, called the ruling a "great victory for counselors and their clients." Counselors and clients have the freedom to choose the counsel of their choice and be free of political censorship from government-mandated speech," Liberty Counsel Chairman Mat Staver said in a statement. The litigation surrounding Tampas ban on sexual orientation change efforts dates back several years. A U.S. district court judge struck down the ordinance in 2019, before the 11th Circuit issued its ruling in Otto. Thursdays ruling comes after the city appealed the district court decision. As Liberty Counsel explained, the 2019 decision granted summary judgment to Liberty Counsel in its suit to invalidate the Tampa ordinance that prohibited licensed counselors from providing voluntary talk therapy to minors seeking help to reduce or eliminate their unwanted same-sex attractions, behaviors, or identity. The legal group noted that the District Court in Vazzo ruled that the ordinance seeking to regulate counselors was a statewide concern and beyond the authority of local governments. In reaching this decision, the lower court did not decide the First Amendment claim. Todays ruling permanently strikes down the ordinance under the First Amendment," the Liberty Counsel clarified. Bans on sexual orientation change efforts have become more common in recent years. The Human Rights Campaign, an LGBT advocacy organization that opposes the practice, has compiled a map showing nearly two dozen states have bans on so-called conversion therapy. States with such prohibitions include California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Oregon, Rhode Island, Utah, Vermont, Virginia and Washington. Over the years, the U.S. Supreme Court has declined to hear challenges to such bans. However, there is a circuit split. Last month, the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals declined to rehear the case of a Christian therapist suing Washington state over its ban on therapy for minors experiencing unwanted same-sex attraction. Pro-life activist Mark Houck wants to press charges for prosecutorial abuse after FBI raid Catholic pro-life activist Mark Houck, who was arrested in a highly publicized FBI raid and recently acquitted on charges that could have sent him to prison for 11 years, said he will look into "pressing charges" related to prosecutorial abuse. Houck appeared on Steve Bannon's Real America's Voice program "The War Room" Tuesday, one day after a jury in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, acquitted him on Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances (FACE) Act charges. Houck first gained national attention after the FBI arrested him at his home in Bucks County, Pennsylvania, on Sept. 23 for violating the FACE Act. Houck detailed the 6:45 a.m. raid, where FBI agents and approximately 15 Pennsylvania state troopers descended on the home. "I was awake; my children and my wife were asleep," he said. "The manner with which the FBI banged on my door is particularly worth noting because they rang the doorbell, it was dark outside, repeatedly they rang the doorbell, and they banged on the door saying 'Open up.' They didn't even declare who they were. They didn't even state their names." The pro-life activist lamented "the degree of the recklessness that this was performed and the act of terror which it was." The agents informed Houck that they were with the FBI when he asked who they were before he opened the door. After learning that it was FBI agents seeking entry into his home, Houck informed them of his intention to "open the door," urging them to "stay calm" because he had seven children in the house. Houck told Bannon, "I opened the door and slowly showed them my hands." "As I opened the door, I could not believe the circus scene that I saw: at least 10-15 marked and unmarked units right in front of me surrounding the side of my house. I have 100 yards to the street, cars lined all the way up to the street, long guns pointed at me, heavily armored vests, ballistic helmets, ballistic shields, [and a] battering ram." "I had at least five federal agents on my porch with M-16s pointed at me," he continued. When he asked the agents why they had come to his house, they insisted, "You know why we're here." After Houck's wife came to the door, she asked if they had a warrant, to which they replied, "We're taking him with or without a warrant." "I was arrested in front of my children, in front of my home, while they were screaming," he added. The agents declined Houck's requests to put on underwear, apply deodorant and brush his teeth while granting his plea to take his rosary. Bannon asked Houck if he intended to "press charges for prosecutorial abuse" against the FBI agents and state troopers who conducted the raid. Houck answered in the affirmative. "We most definitely will, and we will be seeking counsel on that." Houck said his legal counsel wants to get him and his family the opportunity to tell Congress the details of what happened. Houck's charges stemmed from an incident that took place as he conducted sidewalk counseling alongside his then 12-year-old son at a Planned Parenthood clinic in Philadelphia on Oct. 13, 2021. "We were praying our rosary without incident for the first 45 minutes before there was an opportunity to minister and counsel to a woman who came out of Planned Parenthood," he said. "We were walking across the street, talking to her, sharing some literature with her, actually walking to the pregnancy resource center that was only about 50 feet away when an abortion escort volunteer interfered with that encounter, engagement and basically violated my First Amendment rights and got between me and the young lady I was talking to," he recalled. "There was a bit of a bump and so forth there and from there, it ensued to go back to the sidewalk where my son was." While Houck and his son attempted to continue their "prayer vigil," the abortion clinic escort positioned himself "a foot away" from Houck's young son. He engaged in a profanity-laced conversation with the boy, prompting Houck to tell him, "you don't have permission to talk to my son." The escort continued to talk to Houck's son, causing Houck to ask him to "go back to where you normally stand" and "leave us alone." He acknowledged that he spoke to the escort "very forcefully." "He started to move as I kind of escorted him back. I turned back to be with my son, he wheeled and started to talk to my son again and then I turned and pushed him," he explained. This encounter led the U.S. Department of Justice to indict Houck with violating the FACE Act, alleging that he "twice assaulted a man because he was a volunteer reproductive health care clinic escort." If convicted, the father of seven could have faced up to 11 years in prison and a fine of up to $350,000. Satanic Temple launches telehealth clinic for 'religious abortion ritual' The Satanic Temple, an organization that claims abortion bans violate religious freedom, has announced plans to operate a telehealth abortion clinic in New Mexico. "TST Health's online clinic was launched to protect the bodily autonomy of our members. As part of our commitment to protecting our members' civil rights and ensuring that our religious rituals can be performed without government interference, the clinic represents one of the most important steps we have taken," the group wrote in a statement. "TST Health's first telehealth clinic will provide medication for safe abortions through the mail for members and for those who wish to perform TST's Abortion Ritual. The goal of this first clinic is to allow our members to have access to safe and legal abortions, no matter where they live or what their financial situation may be." According to a news release, the clinic will be named "The Samuel Alito's Mom's Satanic Abortion Clinic," referring to U.S. Supreme Court Justice Alito, who authored the 2022 decision ruling that the U.S. Constitution doesn't contain a right to abortion. "In 1950, Samuel Alito's mother did not have options, and look what happened," TST co-founder Malcolm Jarry said in a statement. "Prior to 1973, doctors who performed abortions could lose their licenses and go to jail. The clinic's name serves to remind people just how important it is to have the right to control one's body and the potential ramifications of losing that right." Following the U.S. Supreme Court's overturn of Roe v. Wade this summer, the 1973 decision that legalized abortion nationwide, several states issued bans or severe restrictions on the practice. TST has filed lawsuits in several states seeking to overturn abortion bans or restrictions. The nontheistic religious organization promoted its plans to operate a telehealth clinic in a Wednesday tweet, writing that it's "proud" to announce the launch of a "religious telehealth clinic." According to the group, the clinic will offer discrete "medical abortion care." In addition to providing telehealth abortions in New Mexico, TST's website reveals that the organization plans to offer information and travel assistance for those outside of New Mexico seeking an abortion. TST argues that abortion bans "impede [their] faith in bodily autonomy" and their ability to perform a "religious abortion ritual," which the organization claims is a violation of the First Amendment and the Religious Freedom Restoration Act. TST did not immediately respond to The Christian Post's request for comment. According to TST, anyone in New Mexico seeking to perform "The Satanic Temple's abortion ritual" can "receive free online medical services." "Patients undergo a confidential screening and virtual appointment before having their prescriptions sent to the clinic's pharmacy partner, who will mail the medications in a discreet package," the statement reads. As CP reported, the group made similar claims following the passage of the 2021 Texas heartbeat bill, which banned most abortions in the state after six weeks gestation. TST argued that the law infringes on the group's religious freedom by imposing an "undue burden" on its "satanic abortion ritual." "The Texas Religious Freedom Restoration Act (TRFRA) provides a mechanism to seek an exemption from any law that restricts the free exercise of religion. Because S.B. 8 imposes an undue burden on the ability of TST members to undergo the Satanic Abortion Ritual, the first step in defending the rights of its members is to seek an exemption under TRFRA. If the state declines to provide such an exemption, TST can then seek judicial relief from the law," the organization stated. In a letter at the time to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Matthew A. Kezhaya, a TST attorney, asked for a religious exemption to access the abortion-inducing drugs mifepristone and misoprostol without a prescription as part of its "sacramental" abortion ritual. "TST's membership uses these products in a sacramental setting. The Satanic Abortion Ritual is a sacrament which surrounds and includes the abortive act. It is designed to combat feelings of guilt, doubt, and shame and to empower the member to assert or reassert power and control over their own mind and body. The REMS prescription requirement substantially interferes with the Satanic Abortion Ritual because the Government impedes the members' access to the medication involved in the ritual," the letter noted. Monica Snyder, who serves as the executive director of Secular Pro-Life, an organization comprised of atheists and agnostics, previously told CP that believing a zygote is the first stage of life for a human organism "is not a religious belief." "It's a biological fact," she said. "You don't need to be religious to recognize biological facts, and you don't need to be religious to believe all humans are morally valuable." Snyder said that while freedom of religion is important, it doesn't justify a human rights violation like abortion. Kelsey Hazzard, an atheist attorney and the founder of Secular Pro-Life, agreed with Snyder. "Religious freedom has its limits, and the death of a child lies beyond that limit," she wrote in a separate statement to CP. "The American legal system has encountered an analogous issue: may Jehovah's Witnesses condemn their medically fragile sons and daughters to death because they believe that blood transfusions are sinful?" "No one doubts the sincerity of that religious belief, but the answer is no: the child's right to life takes precedence," Hazzard continued. "Likewise, the right to life must take precedence over religious, unscientific beliefs about ensoulment at birth." Are you ready for the Christian school revolution? Were living in a time when controversies are raging in Americas public schools. Our public schools are under intense scrutiny like never before. Many believe education, morality and discipline standards are dropping. What are concerned parents supposed to do? With U.S. students deserting the public school system in droves nearly 2 million since the pandemic started public schools are in a quandary. Parents are desperate for an alternative. And private Christian schools are grabbing their attention. Is it time for a revolution in our education system? And can Christian schools lead the way? Can Christian schools save the day? Based on a new, nationwide study conducted by my company, DickersonBakker, eight out of 10 Christian school leaders say theres surging demand for Christian education in their area. And the same number says enrollment in their school has risen since the pandemic, with 43% reporting a significant increase. Why? COVID commotion COVID-19 caused a tidal wave of uncertainty, shutting down public schools and forcing students into online studies at home. Parents witnessed disorganized, chaotic virtual classrooms, and saw their kids slide academically. Within weeks, theyd seen enough to know it wasnt working. Seismic cultural shift During the pandemic, for the first time, parents could actually see what public schools were teaching and not teaching their kids. And many didnt like what they saw. Liberal teaching on sexual orientation, gender fluidity, and racial injustice (Critical Race Theory or CRT) left many parents in woke shock and ready to pull the plug on public school education. Awakening to choice As you may have seen in the news recently, some states have enacted school choice legislation, creating state-funded scholarships to help families pay for private school tuition. Parents have suddenly realized they have real choices for their kids beyond public school education. Many have begun looking at alternatives, including homeschooling and private Christian schools. Thousands of parents have re-examined their own Christian and traditional values and found they werent aligned with the public school system. Christian schools have emerged as the number one alternative choice. Can Christian schools rise to the challenge? With this parental awakening, youd think Christian school leaders across the nation would be doing the happy dance, right? Wrong. Many Christian school leaders are unsure how theyll cope with an influx of students. Their nerves are jangling. With parents knocking on the door, eager to sign up their kids, Christian schools are suddenly coming face-to-face with their limitations constraints one Christian school leader described to me as gnarly problems. These gnarly limitations include lack of classroom space, not enough trained teachers to cope with the surge in students, aging technology that needs to be replaced, and insufficient resources. Christian school leaders are asking, Wheres the money going to come from to fund these critical needs and support our schools growth going forward? Theres a persistent myth in Christian school circles that tuition fees should cover everything. But private schools cant survive on tuition fees alone. They need a fundraising plan integrated into their business model one that intentionally builds relationships with donors to fill the funding gap, and lays the bedrock of sustainability. Without it, things will likely go South quickly. And the enrollment bubble will burst. The revolution has begun Despite these challenges, one thing is clear: the Christian education revolution is underway. Many parents across America reject what they see as an academically broken and morally flawed public school system a system thats out of touch with their values and unable to deliver the quality of education their children deserve. There will be growing pains. But Christian schools are ready to tackle funding challenges. And Americas parents are ready to support Christian schools financially and otherwise to lead the way toward a better education and brighter future for their kids. Hold on tight the ride is just beginning! No God, no rights When Vice President Kamala Harris gave a speech on the 50th anniversary of Roe v. Wade about a week ago, she infamously left out the Creator when talking about our rights. One person told me, Hey, at least Kamala didnt say, we are created by you know, the thing, as did her boss on the campaign trail. She also left out the right to life. But does this oversight matter? I addressed her right to life omission in a previous piece, but what about leaving out the Creator? Who cares? We all should. The essence of America is self-rule under God. Leave out either part, and we end up with tyranny. Without God as the secure source of our rights, from whence come those rights? Thomas Jefferson said, and you can see this quote in the Jefferson Memorial: And can the liberties of a nation be thought secure when we have removed their only firm basis, a conviction in the minds of the people that these liberties are the gift of God? Why does God matter? The late Clay Christensen was a Harvard Business professor who hosted a 90-second video segment that brilliantly shows why He matters. Christensen says that ultimately we must choose between internal versus external restraint. In explaining to a visiting student from China how religion benefits American society by bolstering morality, Christensen makes the point that we cant hire enough police to make people good. But democracy has greatly benefited through the internal restraints that religion provides. William Penn, founder of the state of Pennsylvania, would concur. He once noted, If we will not be governed by God, we must be governed by tyrants. Within a few years of Americas revolt against British rule, the French had their revolution. Some like to compare the American with the French Revolution. They were totally different because of the God factor. The American Revolution was pro-God. The French Revolution was anti-God. That is the difference in a nutshell. For the documentaries in my Foundation of American Liberty series for Providence Forum, I had the privilege to interview Dennis Prager, the founder of PragerU. At one point in the interview, he contrasted these two turbulent events. He told me, The American Revolution and French Revolution is the battle in the United States. Which revolution will prevail? ... They loathe the idea of God in the French Revolution; the secular republic was the ideal. In America, they believed in secular government, but in a God-based society, because rights come from God in America. And you can only have liberty if you have God. Prager pointed out that this was not a faith statement so much as a logical one: People will either feel accountable for their behavior to God or the state. Those are your two choices. It is an absurdity to believe theyll be good if theyre accountable only to themselves. If youre only accountable to yourself, you will always justify what you do. And so he concludes, God is the ultimate issue. Take the issue of the value of human life. When you remove God from the equation, life becomes cheap. Because were made in the image of God, human life has value. Human beings are different than animals, says the Bible. Recently I read portions of a great book, The Death of Humanity: And The Case For Life by history professor Dr. Richard Weikart, who wrote the classic book, From Darwin to Hitler. Dr. Weikart writes, Western society is in deep trouble today. Once we identify some segments of humanity as life unworthy of life or sub-human, to use phrases commonly used before and during the Nazi period, we have jettisoned any basis for valuing humans as humans. We have effectively undermined all human rights, because now we can decide which humans have rights and which do not. In contrast, the founders of America said in the Declaration of Independence, We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal and are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights, and among these are the right to life. The first right they listed is the right to life. In the Declaration, the signers mention God four times, including their appeal to the Supreme Judge of the World for the Rectitude of our Intentions, referring to Jesus, whom God, the Bible says, has appointed to judge us all one day. But if theres no Creator, as some politicians seem to think, why should there be any human right? As retired Congressman Ron Paul once noted, There is only one kind of freedom and thats individual liberty. Our lives come from our creator and our liberty comes from our creator. It has nothing to do with government granting it. The science was never settled. Now The Atlantic joins NYT to question transgender orthodoxy Contrary to the claims of transgender activists and their allies, the science was never settled. The body modifications of so-called gender-affirming care have not been shown to be the best treatment for those suffering psychological distress over their embodiment as male or female. And some voices in corporate media are starting to admit this truth. For example, a recent Atlantic piece headlined, Take Detransitioners Seriously. Despite a lot of pro-transition throat-clearing, the article not only concedes that detransitioners are real but confesses that many of the studies cited to dismiss them are weak or non-applicable to current debates. As the authors admit, data are relatively scarce, and anyway the cultural context for trans people has since evolved so much and so quickly that older studies may not adequately predict outcomes for todays population. That is to say, studies of carefully screened European adults are almost certainly not applicable to the essentially unscreened American adolescents currently rushing to gender clinics. The authors of the Atlantic piece add that the existing research has major gaps and conclude that Ultimately, nothing is certain from these data except that more information is necessary. Now they tell us. This piece follows The New York Times published articles giving readers permission to question transgender orthodoxy and joins other critical murmurings in the corporate media. It seems that some liberals are realizing that the demands of maximalist transgender ideology from putting male rapists and murderers in womens prisons to sterilizing healthy children are indefensible and unpopular. Thus, though they are not surrendering, they are looking to retreat to a more sustainable position. Unfortunately, many powerful people, including the Biden administration, are still pushing for the maximal position. And even the newly chastened seem unwilling to support real limitations on the transgender agenda. Consequently, The Atlantic article reads like a concession made to take the heat off, allowable because The LGBTQ community today is also at a moment of unprecedented cultural, institutional, and political strength. Their hope is that by backing away from the worst excesses of the transgender movement, they will be able to cement the rest of their agenda. That tells us that we need to keep pushing, hard. Though we should welcome any retreat from the most egregious follies of transgenderism, we need to continue to press the case against transgender ideology as a whole. An essential part of this case is explaining that it is not just the research on detransitioners that is lacking, but that the general case for transition is incredibly weak. Transgender activists and their allies have tried to create an illusion of overwhelming scientific consensus by stacking weak studies together. For instance, several years ago, I examined one prominent effort along these lines (the What We Know Project) and found that it was stuffed with studies suffering from a multitude of problems, from small sample sizes to subject pools that self-selected on the internet. Even the better-designed, long-term European studies still often had problems such as unduly restrictive definitions of regret or atrocious response rates. Likewise, a 2021 review of studies on transgender regret had many of the same weaknesses. I looked into that research after it was cited by a New York Times piece arguing against any screening before medical transition, and I found that, among other problems Of the 27 studies used in their analysis, the review authors ranked only five as good and only four as having a low risk of bias. Those are not the sort of studies that settled science is made of. The truth is that there is almost no high-quality, long-term research on those who identify as transgender, and the best studies (mostly from Sweden) are far removed from the current American context. Consequently, those trying to build a case for transition tend to cite a lot of studies that are junk e.g. consisting of self-selected online samples recruited by trans activist groups or that are just dishonest. Furthermore, almost all of these studies are conducted by those already committed to medical transition, and who have a lot to lose if it is shown to be bad medicine. These failures extend to the research used to justify transitioning children. There are significant problems with the work used to establish the so-called Dutch protocol in which children are subject to a regime of puberty blockers, followed by cross-sex hormones and surgery. As a recent evaluation noted, Three methodological biases undermine the research: 1. subject selection assured that only the most successful cases were included in the results; 2. the finding that resolution of gender dysphoria was due to the reversal of the questionnaire employed; 3. concomitant psychotherapy made it impossible to separate the effects of this intervention from those of hormones and surgery. Worse still, even the modest guidelines established by the Dutch researchers have been ignored by American gender clinics and their allies, who are feeding children to the transition machine as fast as possible. Furthermore, new research is not improving the case for transitioning children. For instance, a recent report in the New England Journal of Medicine was a disaster for those who want to give adolescents cross-sex hormones. Despite a favorable sample, the two-year study had 2 participants out of 315 commit suicide (a suicide rate far above the national average), found no mental health improvements in males given cross-sex hormones, and only minor, self-reported mental health improvements among females given testosterone (and those may be due to data cherry-picking on the part of the research team). Yet the authors spun this as a positive result, and many in the corporate media promoted this study as demonstrating the benefits of transitioning children. The more people look at the science, the more they realize it does not support transgender claims. The gender ideology movement has only gotten as far as it could today by exploiting initial confusion and ignorance about its lack of scientific support and its medical risks. That this information is now getting out and that there are cracks in the pro-transition media wall is welcome news, but critical voices on gender ideology are still the minority, and many liberals are unwilling to go nearly far enough in rejecting transgender ideology. In the face of this recalcitrance, we must begin by protecting children. The best studies show that most children will desist from gender dysphoria if only given time to grow up and mature. But when a kid is confused about gender, parents have been relentlessly told that they must disfigure and dismember their childs body, or else their child will commit suicide. This emotional blackmail must end, and children must be protected from those who would mutilate their healthy, natural physical development. Couple leave baby at airport check-in counter after told child couldn't board flight without a ticket A couple who attempted to board a plane without buying a ticket for their baby left the child behind at an airport check-in counter and ran to the security gate to catch their flight. The parents were traveling from Tel Aviv, Israel, to Brussels, Belgium, arriving at Ben Gurion Airport on Tuesday to check in for their flight. The agent behind the desk contacted airport security, who detained the parents after they ran off to catch their flight, for which they were already late. In a Thursday statement to CNN, the Israeli Airport Authority said the family had arrived late at Terminal 1 for their flight, and the check-in for it had already closed when the parents realized their baby did not have a ticket to board the flight. "The couple left the infant seat with the baby (watch the video) and ran toward the security checks at Terminal 1 in an attempt to reach the boarding gate for the flight, the Israeli Airport Authority stated. A spokesperson for the airline, Ryanair, said the situation was referred to local police. In a separate statement to CNN, a spokeswoman for the airline said the matter had been resolved by the time the police arrived, and the baby was with its parents and there would be no further investigation. According to Ryanair's website, "infants can be included in a flight reservation during the online booking process." A pop-up message on the site states that the cost of each one-way flight for a baby intended to sit on an adults lap is 25 ($27). A similar incident occurred in 2013 on the Market-Frankford El in Philadelphia, as confirmed by the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority. As The Christian Post reported at the time, a mother and grandmother accidentally left a baby behind at the station. The two adults had a single, one-day convenience pass that allows one person to take eight rides, according to officials. SEPTA spokeswoman Heather Redfern said that a transit employee punched the travel pass, allowing the mother to enter the subway station, who then handed the pass to the grandmother to use at another subway station. In an attempt to avoid detection by transit officials, the pair moved quickly, not realizing that neither one of them had taken the baby, who was left behind at the station. A station official found the child and took it to a booth to keep the baby warm. After arriving at the next station down the line, the babys mother eventually realized that her child was missing. The baby was returned to the mother, and according to transit authorities, there were no charges filed against the woman. The best exhibitions and openings of 2023: Asia, Australia, India, Africa and the Middle East From Alexander McQueen in Melbourne to Yayoi Kusama in Hong Kong, these are some of the most exciting exhibitions happening across the globe this year 1 MAP Museum of Art and Photography Opens 18 February 2023 Bengaluru (Bangalore) February sees the long-awaited opening of MAP Museum of Art and Photography in Bengaluru (also known as Bangalore), the first new public museum to be established in India in a decade. Located in the citys museum district and designed by architects Mathew and Ghosh, the 44,000-square-foot building will house a collection of more than 60,000 works from South Asia, ranging from paintings and sculptures to textiles, tribal art, and memorabilia from the Bollywood film industry. The photography collection, one of the most extensive in India, features images from the mid-19th century to the present day. Open a larger version of this image Jyoti Bhatt, Ranjan Patel (Baroda, Gujarat), circa 1958. Silver gelatin print. Jyoti Bhatt. Courtesy Museum of Art & Photography (MAP), Bengaluru Among the inaugural exhibitions will be Time and Time Again, the first major survey of photographs by the Indian artist Jyoti Bhatt. Best known as a modernist printmaker and painter, Bhatt began photographing rural Indian communities in the 1960s, when he was invited by the educational trust Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan to document folk traditions in the state of Gujarat. Curated by Nathaniel Gaskell, the show features more than 160 photographs, along with contact sheets and archival materials that chart Bhatts photographic journey during the second half of the 20th century. Alongside his well-known pictures of rural life and rangoli artworks will be portraits of fellow artists, as well as the fragmented mirror images that allowed him a more abstract mode of expression. 2 Islamic Arts Biennale: Awwal Bait (First House) Until 23 April 2023 Hajj Terminal of King Abdulaziz International Airport, Jeddah The inaugural Islamic Arts Biennale celebrates the art, culture and rituals that have defined Islam from its beginnings through to the present day. Curated by a multi-disciplinary team of experts, it will examine how the Kabah the House of God in Mecca and the Prophets Mosque in Medina create a sense of belonging that unites Muslims around the world. The exhibition is centred on two principal themes Qiblah (sacred direction of prayer) and Hijrah (migration) and brings together some 280 artefacts as well as 60 works by 44 contemporary artists, including the UKs Idris Khan, Huda Lutfi from Egypt, and Iranian-born Shahpour Pouyan. The exploration of Qiblah sees a range of historical objects from Mecca and Medina counterbalanced with contemporary artworks that explore daily and yearly Islamic rituals. Hijrah is examined through specially commissioned works that reflect on the theme of migration, from persecution to communal celebrations and pilgrimages. 3 Slide / Show 29 April to 13 August 2023 UCCA Beijing In the years following Chinas Cultural Revolution (1966-1976), foreign ideas, images and art historical texts began to filter back into the country. Facilitating this new landscape of exchange was the photographic slide. Open a larger version of this image A Great Accomplishment of Regeneration, 1965. Offset print colour transparency. Courtesy Thomas Sauvin/Beijing Silvermine Reproducible and transportable, it gave Chinese creatives in the era before the internet access to art produced elsewhere, while also offering the countrys artists a means of sharing their work more widely. Slide / Show examines the role and applications of projected photography in the development of Chinese contemporary art from the Cultural Revolution to the 2010s. Curated by UCCAs Holly Roussell, the exhibition focuses on three key characteristics of the slide medium: transparency, refraction and use in transmission. In doing so, it offers a unique perspective on this period of Chinese art history. 4 Painting Love in the Louvre Collections 1 March to 12 June 2023 The National Art Centre, Tokyo From sensual passion to religious devotion, love has inspired artists for millennia. This exhibition of 73 paintings from the collection of the Louvre in Paris will explore how Western artists from the 16th to the mid-19th century have portrayed love in all its many forms. Baron Francois Gerard, Cupid and Psyche, also called Psyche Receiving Cupids First Kiss, 1798. Oil on canvas. 186 x 132 cm. Photo: RMN-Grand Palais (Musee du Louvre) / Tony Querrec The show includes mythological paintings, religious portraits and genre scenes by such celebrated names as Francois Boucher, Jean-Honore Fragonard and Giovanni Battista Salvi. Among the standout exhibits is Ary Scheffers 1855 work The Shades of Francesca da Rimini and Paolo Malatesta, now widely regarded as one of the artists finest compositions. Depicting a scene from Dantes Inferno, it shows the condemned souls of the two tragic lovers overlooked by Dante and his guide, the Roman poet Virgil in Hell. 5 The Feast April 2023, date to be confirmed The Israel Museum, Jerusalem The Feast promises to explore the rituals and ceremony attached to banqueting and food in the ancient Near East between the third and first millennia BC. Through a lavish display of artefacts, iconographic representations and historical texts, drawn primarily from the museums own collection, it will highlight the social, political and cultural role of communal feasting. Open a larger version of this image An impression from a cylinder seal depicting two figures drinking beer through straws at a banquet. Mesopotamia, Iraq, 3rd millennium BC. Chert IAA 1965-84. Photo: The Israel Museum, Jerusalem, Elie Posner The exhibition will focus on key elements of royal and religious feasts, from the sending of invitations and the financing of the events, to the presentation of gifts and the act of sharing and eating food. Highlights include an Iraqi cylinder seal dating from 2600 BC and a Mycenaean gold cup from around 1500 BC, both on loan from the British Museum in London. 6 Bollywood Superstars: A Short Story of Indian Cinema Until 4 June 2023 Louvre Abu Dhabi Over the past century, Indian cinema has grown from a regional industry to a global phenomenon, with more than 1,500 films in around 20 languages released each year. Open a larger version of this image Installation view of shadow puppets from Andhra Pradesh, India, dating from the first half of the 20th century, representing characters from the epic poem the Ramayana. Paris, Musee du Quai Branly-Jacques Chirac. Photo: Ismail Noor/Seeing Things. Department of Culture and Tourism, Abu Dhabi Organised by the Musee du Quai Branly-Jacques Chirac, Louvre Abu Dhabi and France Museums, Bollywood Superstars includes some 40 films and more than 80 artworks that explore the diverse origins and influences of Indian cinema, ranging from mythology and religion to popular arts such as storytelling, dance and theatre. Film props, shadow puppets and photographs are on show alongside Mughal armour, daggers and religious lithographs. 7 When We See Us: A Century of Black Figuration in Painting Until 3 September 2023 Zeitz MOCAA, Cape Town Featuring more than 200 works of art from the past 100 years, When We See Us explores black self-representation and celebrates global black consciousness and experiences. The title of the exhibition is inspired by Ava DuVernays When They See Us, a 2019 Netflix drama based on the true story of the Central Park Five. Open a larger version of this image Zandile Tshabalala, Two Reclining Women, 2020. Acrylic on canvas. 122 x 91.5 cm Organised around six themes, including Sensuality, Joy and Emancipation, the exhibition brings figurative paintings into dialogue with works by leading black thinkers, authors and poets working today. In doing so, it highlights the relationships between artists and artworks across geographic, generational and conceptual contexts. Among the artists whose work features in the exhibition are Zandile Tshabalala (above), Njideka Akunyili Crosby, Ben Enwonwu, Lynette Yiadom-Boakye, Amy Sherald and Joy Labinjo. 8 Alexander McQueen: Mind, Mythos, Muse Until 16 April 2023 National Gallery of Victoria, Melbourne The influential British fashion designer Alexander McQueen (1969-2010) was renowned for his theatrical shows and imaginative designs, underpinned by a conceptual and technical virtuosity. Although dubbed the bad boy of British fashion, he was loved by celebrities and critics alike. In 2003 he was made a CBE. Open a larger version of this image Installation view of Alexander McQueen: Mind, Mythos, Muse at the National Gallery of Victoria, Melbourne. Photo: Tom Ross Drawn from the collections of the National Gallery of Victoria and the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, Alexander McQueen: Mind, Mythos, Muse illuminates his creative process, his capacity for storytelling and his impressive range of inspirations, from literature and history to cinema and the natural world. Shown alongside McQueens designs are artworks including paintings, sculpture, textiles, print, photography and decorative arts that explore themes and visual references present in his work. 9 Liu Kuo-sung: Experimentation as Method Until 26 November 2023 National Gallery of Singapore This major retrospective on the Chinese ink master Liu Kuo-sung (b. 1932) spans all seven decades of his boundary-breaking career. A co-founder of the Fifth Moon Group, which introduced avant-garde trends to Taiwan between the mid-1950s and 1970s, Liu first gained international celebrity with his Space series of celestial bodies inspired by photographs captured during the Apollo 8 space mission. Open a larger version of this image Liu Kuo-sung, Moon Walk, 1969. Ink and acrylic with collage on paper. 59 x 85 cm. Private collection Through more than 60 paintings and 150 items from the artists personal archive, the exhibition explores Lius creative evolution as well as his experimentations with textures, techniques and materials. Standout exhibits include Coming (2014) and In the Midst of a Beautiful Spring (2008), both of which reveal his fluid brushwork and deft handling of colour. 10 Yayoi Kusama: 1945 to Now Until 14 May 2023 M+, Hong Kong The world is dotty for Yayoi Kusama. Her work spanning painting, sculpture, drawing and installation has fetched seven-figure sums at auction and is found in prestigious private and public collections worldwide. In January 2023, aged 93, she released her second highly sought-after collection in collaboration with Louis Vuitton. Open a larger version of this image Death of Nerves (2022) at Yayoi Kusama: 1945 to Now, 2022. M+, Hong Kong. Photo: Lok Cheng. Artwork: Yayoi Kusama Yayoi Kusama: 1945 to Now, the artists largest retrospective in Asia outside her native Japan, tells the story of her life and art through more than 200 works, from drawings made when she was a teenager during the Second World War to her most recent immersive art pieces. Organised chronologically and thematically, the show underscores some of the inspirations that have shaped her distinctive vision, namely polka dots, pumpkins and flowers. Among the new works on display is Death of Nerves (2022), a large-scale installation commissioned by M+ that is a mesmerising extension of Kusamas Infinity Nets into three-dimensional space. Sign up today Christies Online Magazine delivers our best features, videos, and auction news to your inbox every week Subscribe 11 Reopening of Istanbul Modern Date in 2023 to be confirmed Istanbul Istanbul Modern was established in 2004 as Turkeys first museum of modern and contemporary art. Since its opening, in a former warehouse in the Karakoy neighbourhood, it has received 8.5 million visitors and staged a well-received programme of exhibitions, educational workshops, film screenings and social projects. Open a larger version of this image The new Istanbul Modern building in Karakoy, designed by Renzo Piano. Photo: Cemal Emden After four years of construction, its new five-storey, 15,000-square-foot building designed by the Pritzker Prize-winning architect Renzo Piano is now set to open. Built on the original waterfront site in Karakoy, it will house temporary exhibitions as well as works from the permanent collection, spanning modern and contemporary art, photography, design, architecture and digital media. Already installed at the entrance is Runner, a six-metre-high sculpture by Tony Cragg. We are honoured to receive this sculpture as a long-term loan ahead of the opening, says Oya Eczacbas, chair of the board of directors. I believe that this sculpture will become one of the symbols of Istanbul Moderns new building. 12 Sharjah Biennial 15: Thinking Historically in the Present Until 11 June 2023 Various locations in Sharjah, UAE The 15th edition of the Sharjah Biennial brings together some 300 contemporary artworks including 70 new commissions by more than 150 artists and collectives from around the world. Installed in five cities and towns across the emirate and curated by the director of the Sharjah Art Foundation, Sheikha Hoor Al Qasimi, the biennial looks at the relationship between past and present through a post-colonial lens, as well as exploring the dialogue between the local and the global. Sign up today Christies Online Magazine delivers our best features, videos, and auction news to your inbox every week Subscribe We're always interested in hearing about news in our community. Let us know what's going on! Go to form Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, February 3) At least two governors have expressed reservations over the possibility that their provinces will be included in the list of new Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) sites, where US forces will be stationed on a rotational basis. Defense officials have yet to announce the locations, but Cagayan and Isabela - both facing China, Taiwan, and the Korean Peninsula - were being considered. READ: PH, US agree to boost American military presence, create 4 new EDCA sites "I told them that I don't want any part of the province to be used for any offensive against any nation, near to us. We do not want to quarrel with our neighbors," Cagayan Governor Manuel Mamba said Friday. Isabela Governor Rodolfo Albano III, meanwhile, questioned the move - citing Manila's relationship with Beijing. "Maganda relationship natin with China na ngayon di ba? Bakit natin pasasamain yung relationship natin with them? Wala naman silang ginagawa sa atin, di ba?" Albano argued. [Translation: We have good ties with China, right? Why would we tarnish that? They haven't done anything to us, have they?] Both Mamba and Albano also said they and their constituents have not yet been consulted by the Defense Department. Defense chief Carlito Galvez earlier said President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. had ordered the agency to collaborate with the provinces' local governments and communities. "I will have to follow the president's policy with regards to that. Kung ano yung gusto ng presidente. Pero (Whatever the president wants, but) we have to consult also our constituency," Albano said. "I have my personal stand on the issue but syempre [of course], we have to consult people also on what is best for our province," Mamba added. CNN Philippines Senior Correspondent David Santos contributed to this report. The Azerbaijani Ministry of Defense discusses a certificate presentation event after a training session with UK experts, Azernews reports per the ministry. A training course on "Information about the dangers of explosion" was held with the participation of experts from the International School of Security and Explosives Education from January 23 to February 2 of this year in accordance with the bilateral military cooperation program between the defense ministries of the Republic of Azerbaijan and the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland (ISSEE). The National Defense University administration, British Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Fergus Auld, representatives of the military attache apparatus, experts from the International School of Security and Explosives Education, and members of the audience attended the ceremony at the Training and Educational Center of the Azerbaijan Army to present certificates to those who successfully completed the course. The event's speakers emphasized the value of the courses in terms of the exchange of experiences between participants, as well as the need to expand the current cooperation between Azerbaijan and the UK in the area of military education. The United Kingdom's assistance in removing mines and unexploded ordnance from Azerbaijani territory within the framework of the UN Development Program was highlighted. It was stated with confidence that the participants' knowledge and abilities from the course would be put to use in demining the areas freed from occupation. In the end, a photo was taken. Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, February 3) A number of senators have no problem with the expansion of US military presence in the country. For Sen. Jinggoy Estrada, the US has always been an ally when it comes to territorial disputes, and the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) aims to boost the Armed Forces of the Philippines' (AFP) defense capabilities. "While it is seen as directed at enhancing the PH-US security alliance, which is one of the longest military alliances in the world, I trust that whatever possible repercussions had been carefully studied by officials from the Executive," Estrada said. "From what I gathered, the EDCA sites are primarily earmarked for humanitarian assistance and disaster response facilities, and it's part of the modernization efforts of the AFP, therefore it's not directed toward any country," he added. Estrada also said the move is aligned with the president's first state of the nation address, where he vowed to "chart an independent foreign policy with the national interest as a primordial guide." Although disagreeing with the EDCA, Senate Minority leader Koko Pimentel said he supports the practice of the nation's sovereign power to enter into agreements. "As a sovereign nation we are free to enter treaties and agreements which we believe are or will be good for us. Although I disagree with EDCA (the use of PH territory for basing of US personnel and/or supplies) I will uphold our power to enter into agreements as a sovereign nation," Pimentel said. Sen. Francis Tolentino, vice chairman of the committee on foreign relations, said allowing US forces access to four more sites is in line with the 2014 EDCA. He said the deal provides for the temporary and rotational presence of American troops, and not the establishment of permanent US bases. He added that conditions must be followed, including the non-entry of nuclear weapons and respect for Philippine laws and the country's ownership of agreed locations. On protesters' concerns it would increase US' intervention in the region, Tolentino said there is nothing wrong if this will promote peace. "Intervention that will degrade your sovereignty perhaps will be bad, but if the intervention is to foster peace in a manner which is conducive to existing international laws, there's no problem with that," he said. "If you're talking of maintenance of peace in the West Philippine Sea, what's wrong with that?" the senator added. Tolentino said it will have no negative impact on the territorial dispute with China in portions of the West Philippine Sea. "We've seen the repercussions if there are repercussions. I don't think it should alarm, irritate a foreign nation because I would see the EDCA as mere reiteration or in furtherance of the MDT," he told reporters, referring to the decades-old Mutual Defense Treaty. Tolentino said that while EDCA does not need Senate concurrence, the chamber can ask the Department of National Defense for updates on its implementation, including the disbursement of fund to secure the EDCA sites. In a separate statement, Sen. Chiz Escudero said the full implementation of EDCA will promote regional stability with the help of a long-standing ally. "The expansion of EDCA is well within the bounds of such agreement and will help promote regional stability together with a long-time ally of the Philippines - the United States," he said. CNN Philippines correspondent Eimor Santos contributed to this report Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, February 4) The four new Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) sites in the Philippines where US troops will be given access "should not be a cause for concern," Department of National Defense officer-in-charge Carlito Galvez Jr. said on Saturday. Galvez said the implementation of the 2014 agreement between Manila and Washington is aimed at enhancing the capabilities of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to protect the country's maritime and environmental interests, and respond to emergencies. "Thus, these EDCA sites should not be a cause for concern for anyone since it could also spur economic investments, joint protection and preservation of our maritime and natural resources," Galvez pointed out. Under EDCA, the US can build temporary facilities in the Philippines for its troops and equipment. The AFP said the US-funded facilities will be "jointly operated" by the two countries, and will be turned over to the Philippine government after use. US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin III also earlier said EDCA is "not about permanent basing" in the country, which is prohibited by the Philippine Constitution. "[It] enables both countries to increase joint training opportunities, humanitarian assistance and disaster response (HADR) capability, and rotational activities to strengthen interoperability between our armed forces," the AFP said. The Philippines and the US formally agreed on Thursday to build four new additional EDCA bases in "strategic areas," though the locations have yet to be finalized. This is on top of the five existing sites: Cesar Basa Air Base in Pampanga, Fort Magsaysay in Nueva Ecija, Lumbia Air Base in Cagayan de Oro, Benito Ebuen Air Base in Cebu, and the Antonio Bautista Air Base in Palawan. The US allocated $82 million to enhance these five sites as part of the EDCA expansion. READ: PH, US agree to boost American military presence, create 4 new EDCA sites When the four proposed sites are completed, US forces will have access to nine EDCA sites and can be indefinitely stationed there on a rotational basis. Defense officials earlier named Isabela, Cagayan, Zambales, and Palawan - all facing China, Taiwan, and the Korean Peninsula - as potential EDCA sites. This early, the governors of Isabela and Cagayan have already expressed their reservations. READ: Cagayan, Isabela governors not keen on hosting EDCA sites Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, February 3) The International Criminal Court (ICC) has recently authorized its prosecutor to resume investigation into the countrys controversial drug war, but officials insist that the international body has no authority to proceed. Over a year after it halted the inquiry, the ICC said it is not convinced that the Philippine government is making a real or genuine effort to conduct probes and criminal prosecutions regarding the matter. Although the Philippine government said it is open to talks on the issue with the court, Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla said the country will not allow ICC to impose anything. The question, however, is if ICC really does have jurisdiction over the country and its controversial drug war investigation. What is the ICC? ICC conducts policies of the Rome Statute the first permanent treaty made by 160 member countries to end the cycle of criminals being exempted from punishment for the most serious crimes of concern to the international community. The ICC, however, maintains independence from national courts which also allow member states, or countries, to exercise their own authority over crimes within their territory. As a court of last resort, it seeks to complement, not replace, national Courts, the bodys website states. According to the independent judicial body, there are four most serious crimes to affect the global community as a whole which the ICC has authority over genocide, war crimes, crime of aggression and crimes against humanity. Crimes against humanity, the larger umbrella where the bloody drug war falls under, is defined as acts such as murder, enforced disappearance of persons, and those of similar violations that are committed as part of a widespread or systematic attack directed against any civilian population. The ICC caught wind of the drug war in 2016 when the number of victims under the then Oplan Tokhang implemented by ex-president Rodrigo Duterte rose in exceedingly high numbers, with multiple reports of the chief executive citing intention to mass kill those involved in drugs. In 2017, Filipino lawyer Jude Sabio, then-senator Antonio Trillanes IV and Magdalo representative Gary Alejano filed separate requests to the ICC to convict Duterte of 'mass murder' in the country. ICC began its initial probe the year after. Not a member state In the same year ICC began its initial investigation, Duterte formally submitted to the United Nations its written notice of withdrawal from the ICC. With a one-year waiting period before it takes effect, the Philippines only officially stopped being an ICC member state in March 2019. Not being a member state, however, does not stop the ICC from its investigation and legal procedures. The ICC files cases against individuals, not by group or country which means it can continue its probe on Duterte. In November 2021, Duterte formally requested ICC to stop ongoing investigations, calling for a chance to defend the administrations actions and for the international body to acknowledge local policies and efforts. Maintaining the Rome Statutes policies, the ICC temporarily halted its investigation and asked the Duterte administration for proof that it is genuinely investigating its killings under the violent war on drugs. According to the Legal Information Institute of the Cornell Law School, the courts complementary principle means a case is inadmissible before the ICC if it is currently under investigation by a state with jurisdiction over it. However, when the state is unable or unwilling to proceed with an investigation or where the state investigation is conducted in bad faith such as when it is used to shield the person from criminal responsibility, ICC has legal jurisdiction over the matter. After its own analysis, considering the governments side and stories from victims' families, the pre-trial chamber recently announced that it is not satisfied that the Philippines is undertaking relevant investigations that is enough basis for the complementary principle. Working justice system After ICC declared it will resume its investigation, the Department of Justice (DOJ), the Philippine National Police (PNP), and other officials leading the anti-drug campaign expressed their disagreement toward the probe. "Definitely, I do not welcome this move of theirs," Justice Secretary Remulla earlier said. "I will not welcome them [to] the Philippines unless they make clear that they will respect us in this regard." The PNP maintained it is not hiding anything but will only cooperate with the ICC if it acknowledges that the Philippines has authority to investigate the alleged killings under the Duterte administration's anti-drug campaign. Senator Ronald "Bato" dela Rosa, the then-PNP chief under the Duterte administration, said he favors the arrest of officials from the ICC if they insist on coming to the country. For Human Rights Watch (HRW), the ICC can still pursue the probe despite the government's unwillingness to cooperate. "We've seen many times that the ICC is not permitted into areas where they are conducting investigations, but those investigations are capable of going forward, nonetheless," HRW Deputy Asia Director Phil Robertson told CNN Philippines' The Final Word. The DOJ recently announced that a United Nations special rapporteur will visit the country next month to assess local investigations into drug war killings. Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, February 4) Altai Philippines Mining Corp. (APMC) was told to stop operations for now in Sibuyan Island in Romblon after it was given three notices of violations by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), an environmentalist said. According to Rodne Galicha, executive director of the environmental group Living Laudato Si, a multi-sectoral dialogue was held on Friday and led to an agreement that APMC will cease operations until after all issues related to the environmental violations are addressed. At the end, dahil nga sa napakahabang barikada na, tinawagan ng governor ang regional executive director ng DENR kung ano ang magiging pagkilos ng kagawaran, Galicha said. Yun nga mayroong imbestigayon na ginawa ang DENR last week of January hanggang February at meron silang natuklasan na mga violations sa Altai Philippines Mining Corporation. [Translation: At the end, because of the days-long barricade, the governor called the DENR regional executive director to ask what action the department is going to make. The DENR conducted an investigation from the last week of January until February and they found violations by the Altai Philippines Mining Corporation.] Representatives of the mining firm, environmental groups, DENR officials, and local government officials attended the dialogue on Friday, along with the Philippine National Police, and other stakeholders. Sinabi rin naman ng mining company na kung ano ang sasabihin ng kagawaran ay susundin nila at ikokonsulta nila sa principals sa Maynila, Galicha. Kung kaya ang agreement ay mag-stop muna sila. Status quo muna 'yong company. Walang movement, he added. [Translation: The mining company said they will do whatever the DENR tells them and will consult their principals in Manila. Thats why the agreement is for the company to stop its operations for now. The company is in status quo. No movement.] The violations According to documents shared by Galicha to CNN Philippines, APMC violated the following: Article 51 of Presidential Decree (PD) 1067 or the Water Code of the Philippines and Sections 2(c) and 2(f) of DENR Administrative Order 2004-24 during the construction of a docking port and the flattening of the proposed roadway by dumping gravel into the water; Section 4 of PD 1586 for the construction of a causeway without an environmental compliance certificate (ECC); Section 77 of PD 705 for cutting or clearing trees without a permit. The last two notices were posted on the gates of the companys facilities on Saturday, as APMC declined to receive them when they were served by DENR-Mimaropa on Friday night. According to Galicha, the APMC representative said the notices should be sent to the firms head office in Manila instead. According to APMCs project description for scoping, the company is set to extract nickel for 25 years in San Fernando, Romblon. The project covers 1,580.8010 hectares and will also build a waste dump, haul roads and access roads, settling ponds, and a drainage system, among others. Sibuyan Island residents and environmental groups were demanding APMC to show its documents and permits since the firm is planning to export 50,000 metric tons of nickel ore. Galicha claimed around 1,000 people were part of the barricade on Saturday. The human barricade in front of APMCs private port is now on its 12th day. Magbabantay kami hanggang Tuesday [We will be here until Tuesday], Galicha said, adding that what they really want is for APMCs mineral production sharing agreement (MPSA) to be revoked. In 2011, the DENR canceled the company's MPSA to explore resources on Sibuyan Island because of a complaint by then San Fernando Mayor Dindo Rios. The DENR lifted the cease and desist order on APMCs operations in September 2021. CNN Philippines is still waiting for the statements of DENR and APMC as of publishing. On violence Tension rose on Friday as police broke up the human barricade, leaving two persons hurt. This allowed three mining trucks carrying nickel ore to pass through. Protesters said Kagawad Jhay Romero, one of the injured, was handcuffed by the police. He was released some two minutes later because residents were taking pictures of the arrest, they added. On Saturday, Romblon Police Provincial Director Col. Jonathan Paguio said officers were in the area to maintain peace and order. Ang inyong kapulisan ng Romblon ay walang kinakatigan. Kami ay tumutupad lamang sa aming sinumpaang tungkulin na panatalihin ang kapayapaan, Paguio said. Kung may ulat na may nagawang paglabag sa karapatang pantao o pang-aabuso ang mga nakatalagang kapulisan, ito ay aming tutugunan at pinaiimbistigahan upang mabigyan ng karampatang parusa ang mga nang-aabuso, he added. [Translation: Romblon police favor no one. We are only doing our sworn duty to maintain peace. If there are reports of human rights violations made by the police, we will address and investigate these to give appropriate sanctions to the violators.] Galicha said police officers are there to accompany them in monitoring APMC and to enforce the law as the company was served with notices of violation. Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, February 4) - More than 200 proposed "big-ticket" projects are being studied by the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA), which is eyeing to release its approved list at the end of the first quarter of the year. Citing NEDA Undersecretary Rosemarie Edillon, the Presidential Communications Office said NEDA is currently vetting 206 proposals. "And that's just for iyong tinatawag nating magiging flagship [what we call flagship projects]," Edillon was quoted as saying. "That could still be trimmed down...Iyon nga tinitingnan natin iyong viability nito [We're looking into their viability]." The NEDA official added that there is a longer list of around 3,000 proposals covering the entire term of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. until 2028. According to Edillon, the projects will be funded through various schemes such as public-private partnerships (PPPs), grants, and government allocation. She added that the administration will focus on projects that are solicited PPPs, and those that could help the government achieve its economic growth targets, increase employment, and reduce poverty. Earlier, NEDA announced that its board - chaired by Marcos - approved seven "high-impact" projects, including the 6-billion Philippine General Hospital Cancer Center and the 17-billion new Dumaguete Airport Development Project. The list also includes a 20-billion integrated flood resilience and adaptation project; Metro Davao public transport modernization; Metro Rail Transit Line 3 (MRT-3) rehabilitation; upgrade of the communications, navigation, surveillance/air traffic management system; and the Mindanao Inclusive Agriculture Development Project. Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, February 4) For just one day, Japan Home Centre's Panay Avenue branch in Quezon City will accept onions as payment for select items. "[We] will accept an onion in exchange for your chosen product. Every customer has a limit of 3 item purchases only," Japan Home Centre said in a Facebook post. The wholesaler is holding its "Pay with Sibuyas [Onions]" project today (Feb. 4). Only its branch located at 84 Panay Avenue is participating. One onion is equivalent to one item from the store, with each customer limited to three onions for three items. Onions of any size and color will be accepted as payment for select items, the store explained. Japan Home Centre is known for offering most of its products at 88. All of the onions collected during the initiative will be donated to their local community pantry, Japan Home Centre disclosed. Because of the Covid-19 crisis, community pantries where citizens could donate essential goods to those in need spawned throughout the country. The "Pay With Sibuyas" project was launched amid spiked onion prices. In December, onions were valued at around 800 per kilogram, although this has since dropped. According to the Department of Agriculture's price monitoring as of Feb. 3, local red onions cost 250 to 310 per kilo, imported red onions cost 160 to 260, local white onions cost 150 to 260, and imported white onions cost 160 to 200. Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, February 4) A Philippine Navy warship was monitored and tailed by two Chinese Coast Guard vessels and two Chinese maritime militias near Mischief Reef - a low-tide elevation located in the Spratly Islands, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) confirmed Saturday. PCG spokesperson Commodore Armand Balilo said the Chinese maritime militia "fishing vessels/boats" even conducted an intercept course toward the Philippine Navy warship. On Feb. 1, BRP Andres Bonifacio adjusted its course to the west as China maritime militia vessels had closed proximity of about eight kilometers, security innovator Ray Powell reported. READ: PCG: Assets to defend fishermen in WPS not enough but gov't in talks with other nations Mischief Reef is within the 200 nautical miles exclusive economic zone of the Philippines. Balilo said the BRP Andres Bonifacio was conducting a patrol and search mission during that time. Although it was monitored and tailed, the official said Chinese vessels did not interfere in the operation and mission of BRP Andres Bonifacio. READ: Probe underway as Chinese Coast Guard 'drives away' Filipino fishing boat in Ayungin Shoal Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, February 4) The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Saturday maintained that the medico-legal officer who conducted the autopsy on drug war victim Kian Delos Santos adhered to standard operating procedures in examining bodies. The PNP Forensic Group issued the statement after forensic pathologist Dr. Raquel Fortun said earlier this week that the police and the Public Attorneys Office did not properly examine the 17-year-old boys remains. In defending its autospy report, the group said its expert witness' findings helped put behind bars the three Caloocan police officers who killed Delos Santos in 2017. [LINK: 3 cops found guilty of murdering Kian delos Santos] The autopsy findings of the PNP's expert witness which were presented as one of the prosecution's evidence during the trial of the criminal case significantly led to the conviction of the personnel involved, the court sentencing the accused to 40 years imprisonment without parole and the indemnification of the heirs of Delos Santos, its statement read. The forensic group also said it has conducted honest, serious and sincere forensic examination free from any personal or political agenda since its establishment in 1945. In a press conference on Thursday, Fortun criticized government's autopsy reports after she re-examined the body of Delos Santos, whom police killed at the height of the Duterte administrations bloody anti-drug campaign called Oplan Tokhang. Fortun said the PNP report almost had no information in it. She added that only surface cuts were made on Delos Santos body, and that there was no examination of the boy's internal organs. The expert also revealed that she found a bullet on the victims neck area that was not reported in autopsies previously done by the agencies. Fortun said she believed the bullet could be matched to the gun that was used to kill Delos Santos. READ: Inconsistencies in Kian Delos Santos autopsy found forensic expert (CNN) A California jury has ruled that Elon Musk is not liable for losses experienced by Tesla shareholders following his controversial "funding secured" tweet from 2018. The unanimous verdict, announced Friday in US District Court, ends a three-week long trial over a class-action shareholder lawsuit regarding the tweet, in which the billionaire said that he was thinking about taking Tesla private for $420 a share and had "funding secured." Those two words resulted in the CEO having to forfeit his position as Tesla's executive chairman and pay millions of dollars in fines and legal fees. Musk had spoken to executives of the Saudi sovereign wealth fund about the funding he would need to take Tesla private. However, it was anything but "secured." The plaintiffs several Tesla shareholders who alleged that they lost significant portions of their investments in the wake of the share price volatility following the tweet were seeking monetary damages from Musk, Tesla and other Tesla directors in their lawsuit. However, the jury ruled that plaintiffs failed to prove any of their four claims against Musk and the other defendants. "Thank goodness, the wisdom of the people has prevailed!" Musk tweeted after the verdict was announced. "I am deeply appreciative of the jury's unanimous finding." Tesla shares initially climbed 11% on the day of Musk's original "funding secured" tweet, but they never reached that promised $420 level, reaching a high that day of $387.46. And they soon fell well below their pre-tweet price of $344, hitting $263.24 a month later, as it became clear that the funding was less than secure. That prompted the shareholder suit that is just now reaching trial after more than four years. A turn from losses to profits about a year after the tweet started Tesla shares on an extraordinary run, gaining 1520% from the day of the tweet to its record high in November 2021. That record close of $409.97 works out to $6,150 a share, when adjusted for the two stock splits since that day. Even with the 70% decline in Tesla shares from that all-time high to Friday's close, shares are still up 384% since the close on the day of the 2018 tweet. Musk's tweet also prompted a civil suit by the Securities and Exchange Commission, the federal agency charged with protecting investors by requiring executives to tell the truth. It originally sought to strip him of his position as Tesla's CEO. It eventually reached a settlement with Musk in which he and Tesla each agreed to pay $20 million in fines, and Musk gave up his title as chairman of the company but retained the CEO title. It also required that any tweet he sent out with material information about Tesla be reviewed in advance by other company executives. The lead plaintiff in the shareholder lawsuit, Glen Littleton, testified last month that he lost more than 75% of his investments following Musk's "funding secured" tweet. "I wanted to ensure my livelihood. This represented a threat to my livelihood," he said of Tesla not, in fact, being taken private for $420 per share. Musk in his testimony, however, argued that his tweets do not cause Tesla's stock price to move higher or lower. "The causal relationship is clearly not there simply because of a tweet," Musk said. Musk also argued that the character constraint of Twitter made it difficult to be as verbose as one might be in a formal financial filing, which are detailed, subject to regulations and vetted by financial disclosure experts. Matt McFarland contributed to this report. This story was first published on CNN.com, "Elon Musk wins lawsuit over funding secured tweet." (CNN) A Kabul professor who tore up his diplomas live on television in Afghanistan in protest over the Taliban's barring of women from higher education has been arrested. The man, named Ismail Mashal, is the founder of the private Mashal University in Kabul and also a lecturer at Kabul University. With tears in his eyes and his voice quivering, he ripped up the diplomas during an on-set appearance for the country's Tolo News in December. "From today, I don't need these diplomas anymore because this country is no place for an education. If my sister and my mother can't study, then I don't accept this education," he said at the time. He added that the diplomas were for his multiple Masters and Doctorate degrees, and that they were the originals. The clip of his appearance went viral, and was retweeted by Shabnam Nasimi, the former policy adviser to the Minister for Afghan Resettlement & Minister for Refugees, based in the UK. "Astonishing scenes as a Kabul university professor destroys his diplomas on live TV in Afghanistan," tweeted Nasimi, alongside the clip. Senior Taliban representative Abdul Haq Hammad said this week that Mashal had now been arrested. The Taliban announced on December 20 that university education for all female students had been suspended. This follows the government barring girls from attending secondary school in March of this year. It also comes on the heels of many other limitations placed on women's freedoms, including their access to public spaces. In November, women were banned for entering all parks in Kabul. The same month, a Taliban official in Kabul announced that women would be barred from using gyms across the country. Women are also required to wear the hijab and dress modestly in public under the Taliban rules. This story was first published on CNN.com, "Kabul professor who tore up diplomas on live TV to protest Taliban ban on womens education has been arrested" (CNN) Italian anti-Mafia police have arrested another mobster on the run, just two weeks after the sensatial arrest on January 16 of Sicilian Cosa Nostra superboss Matteo Messina Denaro at a health clinic in Palermo, Sicily. This time it was Edgardo Greco, 63, who was apprehended in Saint-Etienne, France, where he was working under the alias Paolo Dimitrio as a pizzaiolo -- or pizza chef -- at the Caffe Rossini Italian restaurant. Greco, associated with the Calabrian 'Ndrangheta, was convicted in absentia in 1991 for the double homicide of brothers Stefano and Giuseppe Bartolomeo, who he is alleged to have killed with iron bars before dissolving their bodies in acid, according to court documents. He had evaded Italian law enforcement officials since his conviction. Described as a "dangerous fugitive" by Nicola Gratteri, the anti-Mafia prosecutor who led the investigation as head of the Public Prosecutor's Office of Catanzaro, Calabria, Greco was also convicted of the attempted murder of several prison officials, earning him the nickname "prison killer." Gratteri started closing in on Greco after he was featured in an article in the French newspaper Le Progres, which the restaurant posted on its official Facebook page, the prosecutor's office confirmed to CNN. Police in Calabria also said that he regularly posted on social media under his false name. The restaurant phone number was disconnected when CNN attempted to call on Friday. Journalist and author Roberto Saviano, who has been living under police protection since his book "Gomorrah" was published in 2006, told CNN that it is common for Mafia bosses to crave attention. "It's typical. Look at El Chapo, who, when he was working wanted to meet Sean Penn who he wanted to make a movie about him. And Al Capone wanted to go on the movie set of 'Scarface,'" Saviano told CNN in an interview last week. Italian anti-Mafia police said there are still four major mafiosi in hiding, and several lesser figures on the run. The Italian government anti-Mafia website lists the top four. Pasquale Bonavota, 48, has been on the run since 2018 and has been convicted of Mafia crimes related to the Calabrian 'Ndrangheta. Giovanni Motisi, 64, a member of the Sicilian Cosa Nostra, has been on the run since 1998 when he was convicted of murder and Mafia association in Sicily. Renato Cinquegranella of the Neapolitan Camorra, 73, has been on the run since 2002, after being convicted of murder, weapons charges and extortion, and Attilio Cubeddu, 75, has been on the run since 1997, convicted of multiple kidnapping charges and is considered one of Italy's most dangerous fugitives. Italy's anti-Mafia squad said they are working around the clock to find those still in hiding, by arresting those within their protective networks, sequestering bank accounts and assets, and even scouring social media for errors like Greco made that blew his cover. This story was first published on CNN. "Mafia boss found working as pizza boss after 16 years on the run" House Republicans are set to hand libertarian Rep. Thomas Massie (R-KY) the gavel for the subcommittee responsible for antitrust, a snub to one of Republicans' most vocal Big Tech critics and a sign the conference will try to steer clear of major clashes with Silicon Valley. And it is this massacre which made Jammu as Hindu majority and partly triggered the Kashmir problem. Using this as a pretext the Tribal supported by Pakistan army launched the attack on J&K. The state was unprepared to face this assault and wanted India to send its armies to quell this aggression; it was in this backdrop that the treaty of accession was signed. Earlier Harisingh had refused to merge with India. Also Jinnah had commented that Kashmir is in his pocket as it a Muslim majority state. National Conference, which was earlier Muslim Conference, led by Sheikh Abdullah had launched a democratic agitation against the Maharajas rule to end the feudal structure of society. That apart, as the three states (Junagadh, Hyderabad and Kashmir) were not willing to merge with India; Sardar Patel was willing to let Kashmir to go to Pakistan if Junagadh and Hyderabad merge with India. Rajmohan Gandhi in his book Patel: A Life, tells us that Patel was thinking of making an ideal bargain: if Jinnah lets India have Junagadh and Hyderabad, Patel would not object to Kashmir acceding to Pakistan. He cites a speech by Patel at Bahauddin College in Junagadh, following the latters merger with India, in which he said: We would agree to Kashmir if they agreed to Hyderabad. "He may not have been the central figure in drafting of 370, but was very much in the know of the same and there is no evidence of Patel opposing it in any way. Patel was neither central to Article 370 as, some suggest, nor is there any evidence that his centrality would have ensured full integration of Kashmir with India, as is assumed by the governmental narrative today." Also, those suggesting that Patel would have taken the army further rather than call for ceasefire should know that Patel in a letter to Gopalswamy Ayyangar on 4th June 1948 wrote, The military position is not too good and I am afraid that out military resources are strained to the utmost (Sardar Patels Correspondence). The march of the Indian army did save Kashmir from the marauding tribals (supported by Pakistan army). The cease fire was declared to protect the civilians and also to ensure that a peaceful solution will emerge through the United Nations. The matter being taken to United Nations has been criticized but that must have been the best option in that circumstance. Patel very much approved of it: As regards specific issues raised by Pakistan, as you have pointed out, the question of Kashmir is before the Security Council. Having invoked a forum to settlement of disputes open to both India and Pakistan, as members of the United Nations Organisation, nothing further needs be done in the way of settlement of disputes than to leave matters to be adjusted through that forum. (Patels letter to Jawaharalal Nehru dated 23 February 1950, page 105-106, of the book Sardar Patels correspondence 1945-50" Volume 10 Navjivan publishing house, Ahmedabad, 1974). The attempt to create a binary between the line taken by Nehru and probable line of Patel is figment of fiction for political considerations of sorts, as Nehru and Patel both were on the same page on the issue. As far as Kashmir is concerned, as people have welcomed Bharat Jodo yatra, it is yet another occasion to introspect and restore democratic norms in the state. --- *Human rights activist and scholar As far as the handling of Kashmir was concerned, unlike in other Princely states, here Pakistan was also involved, and so Nehru, being Foreign affairs minister also, had to lead the issue. Patel and Nehru were on the same page in this endeavor. Patel was more interested in Junagadh and Hyderabad, while negotiations of Article 370 and the steps in handling the same were happening with him being very much around.To quote Rajmohan Gandhi: Any author would be thrilled. 'A book of major importance,' declared my publisher in a gushing email. 'Your research is exhaustive. I am speechless . . . such an important book.' Ten weeks later, another email came from the publisher. In a couple of weasel-worded paragraphs, I was informed that my book was being binned because of 'public feeling'. 'Conditions are not currently favourable . . . we will therefore be postponing publication and will review the position next year. If you are not happy with this, we will pay the balance of the advance due and revert the rights to you.' In other words, after all the work they put into commissioning and editing the manuscript, Bloomsbury would rather pay me off than publish. Their unstated reasons were obvious as far as I was concerned. My book was called Colonialism: A Moral Reckoning, and its conclusion was that the British Empire was responsible for some terrible crimes but also brought much good to the world. NIGEL BIGGAR (pictured): Any author would be thrilled. 'A book of major importance,' declared my publisher in a gushing email. 'Your research is exhaustive. I am speechless . . . such an important book.' Ten weeks later, another email came from the publisher. In a couple of weasel-worded paragraphs, I was informed that my book was being binned because of 'public feeling' 'Conditions are not currently favourable . . . we will therefore be postponing publication and will review the position next year. If you are not happy with this, we will pay the balance of the advance due and revert the rights to you.' In other words, after all the work they put into commissioning and editing the manuscript, Bloomsbury would rather pay me off than publish (pictured: an 'anti-imperialist' protest by Oxford students) In particular, it was Britain's steadfast opposition to slavery, from 1807 and for the next 150 years, that led the way for an end to the global slave trade. We were the leading proponent of abolition, especially after 1833, and for more than a century we campaigned to end the practice from Malaysia to Brazil. And it was the Empire that stood almost alone, with the exception of Greece, against the Nazi threat after France fell in May 1940. The Empire kept Western democracy alive. Such a balanced view, which is based on meticulous analysis of documented fact, is all but unsayable in today's woke culture. In publishing, where political correctness now maintains a vice-like hold on what people can write and even think, the penalty for transgressing is to find yourself summarily cancelled. Many people in the book world, traditionally the most liberal-minded of industries, are appalled. But they dare not say so. To argue this is to risk being labelled a racist, a transphobe, a bigot or all three. To argue is to risk being labelled racist One insider told me this week: 'There is a soft power wielded by the woke. Controversy can be valuable publicity for a book but not when it is contradicting the views set down by the Left-wing clique that rules many traditional publishing firms. 'As a result, a self-inhibiting fear permeates everything. It stifles creativity, and writers agree to changes imposed by very young editors because they don't feel confident about standing their ground.' That man, a hugely respected executive with decades of experience, asked me not to use his name. Another veteran insider, speaking off the record, confirmed his observations: 'This is happening against the will of a lot of people in the business. They are scared to put their heads above the parapet. 'Senior editors, the grownups in positions of authority, have abdicated. They are not taking responsibility, often because they are white people in their 40s and 50s who are terrified of looking like dinosaurs. 'The woke generation are used to getting their own way and they are not being challenged.' When I began working on my book, I naively thought that my research would be welcomed. It is a reaction to the slanderous caricature that equates British colonialism with slavery and racism, and thus the embodiment of evil. Of course I detest slavery. It should scarcely need saying. I am a professor of moral theology, and I have dedicated my career to questions of good and evil, seen through the lens of religion. But I also detest falsehoods. When lies create divisions and resentment, we have a duty to speak out and expose them. That was one of the main purposes of my book. It is a lie to say British colonialism is synonymous with slavery. But it is true that, in common with most other major nations in Europe, we were involved in slave trading. It is also true that our colonies in the West Indies passed their own legislation that enabled slavery on the plantations. Of course I detest slavery. It should scarcely need saying. I am a professor of moral theology, and I have dedicated my career to questions of good and evil, seen through the lens of religion Their unstated reasons were obvious as far as I was concerned. My book was called Colonialism: A Moral Reckoning, and its conclusion was that the British Empire was responsible for some terrible crimes but also brought much good to the world (pictured: an 'anti-imperialist' protest by Oxford students) We were far from unique. Black empires in Africa at this time also maintained slave workforces and had done since Ancient Egyptian times. Black Africans sold countless thousands of other Black Africans into slavery, first to Rome, then to Arab traders, then to Europeans who transported them to the Americas. In Jamaica, escaped slaves fled into the mountains, where they kept their own slaves. In the 1700s, Comanche Native Americans in the southern plains ran what one U.S. scholar has called 'a vast slave economy'. Slavery was a universal institution, an accepted fact of international life during the beginnings of the British Empire in the 17th and 18th centuries. And even in the 19th century, up until the U.S. Civil War, some freed slaves in North Carolina kept slaves of their own. READ MORE: CBE for Oxford professor Nigel Biggar who championed free speech after campaigners tried to stop his research into history of British Empire Professor Biggar has been branded a proposed boycott of Oriel students over the decision to keep the Cecil Rhodes statue as 'authoritarian' (file photo) Advertisement Many of those who are most virulent in their condemnation of Britain do not appear to realise that in this country, slavery disappeared in medieval times. To listen to woke historians, even on the BBC, you might imagine that black people were kept as slaves in the United Kingdom far later. That is simply not true. In 1772, Lord Chief Justice Mansfield ruled in the case of a slave called James Somerset, who had been freed from an American ship after a campaign by British abolitionists. Lord Mansfield declared that slavery 'is so odious that nothing can be suffered to support it'. It was the Establishment view of the time. Such facts and precedents are so essential to freedom in this country that every child should be taught them. But that doesn't happen. Indeed, when I informed college officials at Oxford University, late in 2017, that I was working on this research, I sensed strong undercurrents of opposition. The university was quick to tell me that it supported my right to say whatever I thought. But many of my fellow academics began to use political means to undermine me. One Left-wing professor of history declared that the whole faculty regarded me as 'a pariah'. A Cambridge professor of post-colonial studies tweeted, not exactly in academic language: 'OMG, this is serious s**t. WE MUST SHUT THIS DOWN.' Old friends began to hint that I should drop the whole business. Others whom I had mistaken for friends simply dropped me and distanced themselves from me in public, as if I had some disease of intellectual judgment that might be contagious. There has been an attempt to blackball me from one college's senior common room. An article published in 2019 decried me as the embodiment of Brexit, which was ridiculous since, although it is hardly relevant, I voted for remaining in the EU. This ignorance seems typical. Most of my colleagues in other academic disciplines don't know enough about the history of empire to know whether my arguments are sound. But they know my opinions are upsetting people, and they are scared of being condemned by association. It is for precisely this reason that I believe it is important to publish. I won't deny I was hurt and upset when Bloomsbury invited me to sever my contract with them. My wife recalls I was 'devastated' at the thought my work would not be read, and I dare say I was. But I was more upset still at the thought that censorship so clearly operates in publishing. There has been an attempt to blackball me from one college's senior common room. An article published in 2019 decried me as the embodiment of Brexit, which was ridiculous since, although it is hardly relevant, I voted for remaining in the EU (pictured: an 'anti-imperialist' protest by Oxford students) It is now nearly impossible to challenge the orthodoxy on empire and colonialism and much else, even though the accepted views were factually wrong and could be methodically disproved. One publisher who has worked at the very top of the industry told me this week: 'Our business has changed fundamentally. We have always been broadly Left-Liberal, but it went without saying that our role was to publish a broad spectrum of opinions, not reflect solely our own prejudices. 'That used to be the orthodox position. It was not controversial, quite the opposite. But many publishing houses have ceased to do that, and will now project only a narrow range of views. 'What's so bizarre is that a lively market exists for all sorts of viewpoints. People want to buy these books and our industry exists to sell books. So why aren't they being published?' I am told that my own work would not even be considered by some publishers, because few commissioning editors would dare propose a book that took a balanced view of colonialism. It nearly drove one top writer to suicide 'They'd be afraid, not just that their colleagues would condemn the project as racist but that they themselves would be labelled racist,' I was warned. Fear of appearing to hold the wrong opinions extends far beyond non-fiction. Even children's books have been affected. When Harry Potter author and celebrated feminist J. K. Rowling wrote a fairy story called The Ickabog, some staff at Hachette threatened to down tools in protest at her comments about trans women. It was difficult to gauge how many truly supported the stance, as peer pressure influenced others to join in rather than risk being labelled 'transphobic'. And when a Twitter storm erupted over a book by the bestselling writer Kate Clanchy, she was dropped by her publisher, Picador. They announced that they would cease to sell the former teacher's books, including Some Kids I Taught And What They Taught Me, which had just won the prestigious Orwell prize. Clanchy was accused of describing children in racist terms, because she used phrases such as 'chocolate-coloured skin' and 'almond-shaped eyes'. The writer, who said she was almost driven to suicide by the repercussions, agreed to rewrite the passages. But that wasn't enough for the pitchfork mob or for Picador. She is now published by the independent Swift Press. When Philip Pullman himself known for his Left-wing views dared to defend her, the condemnation was so intense that he felt obliged to resign as president of the Society of Authors. In a final email, I accused Bloomsbury of pandering to 'the woke Left an illiberal movement that agitates to suppress the expression of any views that offend it, since my book exposes several of its basic assumptions as false' I am reliably informed by a source that Bloomsbury's bosses needed to appease young members of staff who were up in arms at being expected to work on my book, because they found it objectionable. Since there was no alternative, I agreed to walk away. But I didn't do it without a parting shot (file image) This shameful state of affairs is reflected on the other side of the Atlantic. When Penguin Random House Canada announced it was publishing a new book by the highly influential and best-selling psychologist Jordan Peterson, dubbed the 'professor against political correctness', staff were said to have broken down in tears at a meeting with executives who defended the move. And in New York, Hachette dropped plans to publish Woody Allen's memoir when employees walked out in protest, over unproven allegations that he sexually abused one of his adopted children. Staff at other branches of the publisher joined in with secondary protests. 'We feel strongly about everyone's right to tell their own story,' claimed an anonymous Hachette employee. 'But we don't agree with giving Woody Allen a platform that includes distribution, marketing, publicity. I think we feel he does not deserve a platform, that by publishing him we are in some way validating his story.' In other words, everyone deserves to be heard, except those who don't and anonymous publishing staff get to decide who is given a voice and who is mercilessly silenced. I am reliably informed by a source that Bloomsbury's bosses needed to appease young members of staff who were up in arms at being expected to work on my book, because they found it objectionable. Since there was no alternative, I agreed to walk away. But I didn't do it without a parting shot. In a final email, I accused Bloomsbury of pandering to 'the woke Left an illiberal movement that agitates to suppress the expression of any views that offend it, since my book exposes several of its basic assumptions as false'. Last night, in a statement to the Mail, a Bloomsbury spokesperson insisted: 'It is categorically untrue that Bloomsbury's decision to delay publication of Mr Biggar's book was the result of pressure from young staff members or that young staff members were up in arms at being expected to work on his book because they found it objectionable. 'Mr Biggar claims he was told this by an internal source at Bloomsbury; if this is the case, he has been misinformed.' It is clear that Bloomsbury and I profoundly disagree about the reasons for my book not being published by them. A minority is determined to silence dissent Because this zealous minority is determined to silence all dissent, ignorance is gaining traction. Fake history and lies are starting to dominate our public discourse. Statues are pulled down, institutions change their names, national figures such as explorer Sir Francis Drake and Victorian Prime Minister William Gladstone are disowned, all on false grounds. The National Trust berates benefactors who donated their houses, and museums peddle distorted versions of history. Even the Royal Family is subjected to nonsensical accusations of condoning slavery. Ignorance is flourishing and setting the agenda for political discourse. That is dangerous. Publishers should be in the vanguard of the fight for free speech not silencing those who expose the lies. Fortunately, there are still people in the industry with the courage of their principles. My book was published this week by William Collins. Readers might not agree with its argument or its conclusions but, thank God, you will be able to make up your own mind, instead of having that choice taken away from you by woke tyrants in publishing. How dare the Labour Party try to gain political advantage by complaining about the horrible explosion of crime in this country? Last week, they produced official figures showing that three murders or sex attacks are carried out every week by criminals on probation. And of course this is quite true, and absolutely intolerable. So is the spread of 'anti-social behaviour' which ruins the lives of millions in our poorer areas; and the general increase in drug abuse and the carrying of knives, so that schoolchildren are now being robbed at knifepoint on their way home, in supposedly civilised parts of the capital. But what are they actually going to do about it? Some of us still remember their cynical and double-edged 1997 pledge to be 'tough on crime' and 'tough on the causes of crime'. They did not mean the first bit, and they were wrong about the second bit. How dare the Labour Party try to gain political advantage by complaining about the horrible explosion of crime in this country? Pictured: Labour Party leader Keir Starmer speaks during Prime Minister's Questions in the House of Commons, London, February 1, 2023 Some of us still remember Labour's cynical and double-edged 1997 pledge to be 'tough on crime' and 'tough on the causes of crime'. Pictured: Tony Blair, opposition Labour party leader, and Gordon Brown, shadow chancellor, confer at a 1997 election campaign press conference The main thing that happened under their rule is that the authorities worked out how to pretend that crime had fallen. They did this by ignoring hundreds of thousands of crimes and so not recording them. Hence the amazing claims of the Blairites to have reduced crime. The cause of crime is human wickedness. It is not low incomes, or bad housing, or being abused while a child, or all the other things which fashionable opinion now blames for robbery, violence and callousness. The period between the two world wars is now passing out of memory, but the conditions in which millions of British people lived in those years would simply astonish those living today. Honest, good citizens, thrown out of work through no fault of their own, had nothing, went hungry to bed and endured the cold and damp in miserable slums for years on end. And they did not, for the most part, turn to crime. In my view there were several reasons for this. Their generation had been brought up in the Christian religion which is now fading away. They genuinely believed it was wrong to steal. Crime was quickly detected and swiftly and severely punished. An active and busy police force patrolled the streets on foot and was never far away. Judges and magistrates shared the public belief that those who broke the law should suffer for it. Prisons were firmly under the control of the authorities, rather than run by their inmates. Children grew up in strong families where parents made it clear that lawbreaking was a shameful thing. There were no drugs. Alcohol was expensive and quite hard to get for much of the time. Boys had fathers. Criminals reliably went to jail for a second offence. How unlike these times, when criminals begin by getting away with 20 crimes, such as burglary and shoplifting, ignored by the police and courts, and are then softly handled for the next 20. Judges and magistrates strain to avoid passing immediate prison sentences. When they do, they are automatically halved. Liberals still recite their smug twaddle about how so many prisoners reoffend, so prison 'does not work'. They cannot grasp that so many of those who end up in prison were already habitual criminals before they ever got there. It was the Labour Party, with its 1960s social and legal reforms, which did the most to dismantle the old law-abiding world. And, as it did so, it also took the first steps towards withdrawing the police from the streets and ending the foot patrols which had worked so well. The Tories, instead of fighting this and reversing it, mostly accepted the changes and have never said anything intelligent on the subject in modern times. So do not expect them to help you. The main thing that happened under Labour's rule is that the authorities worked out how to pretend that crime had fallen. Pictured: Prime Minister Tony Blair gives the keynote address at the Labour party conference in Brighton, September 1997 These deeply unpleasant things are a result of the social revolution which the Left-wing elite has imposed on this country, and which the supposed Conservatives in law, politics and the media have never bothered to understand and will not resist. There may, I suppose, be time for someone to put this right before actual chaos arrives and those who can afford them have steel front doors to keep the misery out. But not very much time. Our pitiful Forces can't match this pageantry I am preparing myself for great disappointment at the coming Coronation. Unlike most other people, I thought the late Queen's funeral was far less impressive and moving than it could have been. I am still angered and puzzled by the mistaken decision to fly Her Majesty from Scotland to London, when millions would have lined the tracks in a great national farewell if she had been brought south aboard the Royal Train. And now it seems likely that the combined services parade for Charles's crowning will be a poor shadow of the 1953 ceremony. As things now stand, we may have only about 3,000 members of the Armed Forces available to march through London, compared with 30,000 70 years ago. We may have only about 3,000 members of the Armed Forces available to march through London, compared with 30,000 70 years ago. Pictured: The coronation of Queen Elizabeth II, June 2, 1953 This is, of course, another result of the hollowing-out of our fighting services in recent years, under governments of both parties. In contrast to the macho posturing of our politicians about Ukraine, we have pitiful numbers of troops, little ammunition and clapped-out, obsolete equipment. A senior US general has privately told Defence Secretary Ben Wallace that the British Army is no longer regarded as a top-level fighting force. This will come as no surprise to anyone who has been paying attention, as the Army is cut and cut, and as the Navy shrinks. It is not just the Coronation that will be a diminished, shrunken thing if we go on like this. Storming of a free speech fortress Freedom of speech and thought have not been in so much danger for years. A week ago, I wrote here about shadowy surveillance and censorship of dissent over the Covid panic. Today I bring you news of the sad surrender of a former fortress of free speech: Conway Hall in London. This time the subject is the Ukraine war, an issue on which only one view is now tolerated in many places that ought to know better. I have spoken twice in this enjoyably dingy auditorium once in a debate on Ukraine and once at a debate with my late brother (I won it) before an audience of fashionable Leftists, many of whom probably wished I would go away and die. It used to be the place where you went to hear the most unpopular views, a reliable platform for the furthest fringe. Well, no longer. A planned meeting there by a group (mainly of the Corbynite Left) opposed to the Ukraine war has been cancelled. Apparently, the hall's managers had been subjected to a blizzard of intimidating emails and social-media posts. You will have to guess where they were from, for I cannot find out. They feared that they could not guarantee the safety of the building or its staff. Opponents of the meeting also seem to have pressured those who fund the building or do business with it. I gather the hall suffered badly in the Covid shutdown and is not in any position to defy such boycotts. I think this is deeply sad. I can find no evidence that the police have been asked to investigate, or having been alerted to the event by me that they plan to do so. Last Wednesday, in one of his punchiest PMQs exchanges since becoming Prime Minister, Rishi Sunak battered Sir Keir Starmer. While he stands up for extremist protesters and union bosses, we stand up for hard-working Britons, the PM proclaimed. It was feisty stuff, and his backbenchers roared their approval. It was also an illusion. Rishi Sunak doesnt stand up for hard-working Britons. He doesnt understand hard-working Britons. And thats why hard-working Britons are getting ready to sling him and his party from power. Rishi Sunak doesnt stand up for hard-working Britons. He doesnt understand hard-working Britons. And thats why hard-working Britons are getting ready to sling him and his party from power. Next year Britain will go to the polls. The plumbers, brickies, electricians, scaffolders, painters, decorators and hairdressers will get to deliver their verdict. Rishi Sunak and Nadhim Zahawi may not understand now. But on that day, they will. Nadhim Zahawi angrily declared he was the subject of smears and threatened the papers whod exposed the HMRC investigation with legal action. Then last month, a new report appeared Nadhim Zahawi had settled with HMRC. If Rishi Sunak really did want to stand up for hard-working Britons, there wouldnt have been an investigation. It wouldnt have taken the best part of a month from the point it emerged Zahawi had been deceiving the country about his tax affairs for the matter to be resolved. Two years ago, millions of workers from plumbers, brickies and electricians to scaffolders, painters, decorators and hairdressers took a deep breath, tightened their belts and sent off a cheque to the taxman to cover their annual bill. At about the same time (June 2021, to be precise), Sunaks ministerial colleague Nadhim Zahawi sat down with his accountants and HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) officials. There was a very big query over his return involving millions of pounds in unpaid tax. Officials were investigating. A couple of months later, with the investigation ongoing, Zahawi was made Education Secretary by Boris Johnson. As part of the appointments process, he was required to fill in a declaration of interest form, containing a specific section on any relevant information relating to his tax affairs. Around the country, Britains plumbers, brickies, electricians, scaffolders, painters, decorators and hairdressers were looking at their food and heating bills, and starting to get nervous. Nadhim Zahawi looked down at his form and decided hed leave that tax section blank. The following year, two newspapers published separate reports that Zahawi who had just been appointed Chancellor was being investigated for his tax affairs. Britains plumbers, brickies, electricians, scaffolders, painters, decorators and hairdressers were by now in the teeth of the worst cost-of-living crisis for a generation. Nadhim Zahawi angrily declared he was the subject of smears and threatened the papers whod exposed the HMRC investigation with legal action. Then last month, a new report appeared Nadhim Zahawi had settled with HMRC. He did indeed have an outstanding tax bill, estimated to be 3.7 million. A spokesman for Zahawi the recently appointed Conservative Party chairman said his taxes had been properly declared. Few of Britains plumbers, brickies, electricians, scaffolders, painters, decorators and hairdressers noticed, because they were too busy trying to work out how they were going to afford a projected 3,000 annual rise in energy bills. At which point a new story emerged. Zahawi had not properly declared his tax after all. HMRC judged hed failed to take reasonable care over his affairs, and hit him with a penalty estimated to be in the region of 1.1 million. There werent many of Britains plumbers, brickies, electricians, scaffolders, painters, decorators and hairdressers in the public gallery of the House of Commons when Rishi Sunak stood up to address the issue. Despite the fact his colleague had been investigated by HMRC for not paying his proper taxes, had paid a 1 million penalty for not paying his proper taxes, had publicly dissembled and deflected about the investigation into his unpaid taxes, had hidden from three successive Prime Ministers that hed been under investigation for not paying his proper taxes and had threatened legal action against anyone who accurately reported hed not paid his proper taxes, Sunak simply said: My Right Honourable Friend has already addressed the matter in full and there is nothing more that I can add. But there was. Last Sunday, the truth finally caught up with Nadhim Zahawi. After being forced into investigating the tax saga, Sunak asked for Zahawis resignation. A report by Sir Laurie Magnus, the Independent Adviser on Ministers Interests, found he had shown insufficient regard for the general principles of the Ministerial Code and the requirements in particular, under the seven principles of public life, to be honest, open and an exemplary leader. I know Nadhim Zahawi. Hes a decent man, who was born in Baghdad, fled Saddam Hussein and made his way through grit and graft to the top of British public life. But he simply doesnt get it. Nor does Rishi Sunak. When it was revealed Zahawi had indeed been investigated by HMRC contrary to his furious denials he claimed he believed he and his advisers were merely being asked certain queries. Nadhim Zahawi was Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Business and Industry. He was Chancellor of the Exchequer. Yet he honestly thought Britains plumbers, brickies, electricians, scaffolders, painters, decorators and hairdressers were going to fall for the line he didnt know what a tax investigation looked like. Last weekend, in his final act as Tory Party chairman, Zahawi joined Rishi Sunak and the rest of the Cabinet for an away-day at Chequers to plan their General Election strategy. Why? What were they hoping to achieve? They cant seriously believe that in 2024, working men and women are going to troop to the polls and opt for five more years of this. That the voters are going to re-elect Ministers who hike their taxes to levels not seen since the 1940s, then fight like cornered alley cats when asked to pay a fair share of tax themselves. Nadhim Zahawi clearly does think that. As does Rishi Sunak. As soon as I knew [about the scandal], I appointed somebody independent, got the advice and acted pretty decisively, he claimed. But he didnt. It was revealed on January 8 that Zahawi had been misleading everyone, and forced to pay millions in back taxes. It was revealed on January 20 that hed had to pay an additional tax penalty. But the initial response of the Prime Minister to these revelations was to shrug and say the matter was closed. If Rishi Sunak really did want to stand up for hard-working Britons, there wouldnt have been an investigation. It wouldnt have taken the best part of a month from the point it emerged Zahawi had been deceiving the country about his tax affairs for the matter to be resolved. One five-minute phone call to HMRC, and Zahawi would have been out on his ear. Rishi Sunak didnt make that call. Because the truth is hes not even on the same wavelength as working people, never mind on their side. Like Zahawi, hes a good, hard-working man, and he genuinely has the best interests of his country at heart. But their world is not his world. Theres a simple reason the Prime Minister failed to act on the affair until it detonated in his face. He didnt initially recognise Zahawi had done anything seriously wrong. Tax challenges. Non-doms. Green Cards. Thats what everyday life looks like from the perspective of Rishi Sunak. If Sunak was alive to the concerns of the people he aspires to govern, the moment he learned one of his Ministers had been playing a losing game of catch-me-if-you-can with HMRC, hed have handed them their P45. If he was alive to the concerns of the people he aspires to govern, the moment he learned one of his Ministers had been playing a losing game of catch-me-if-you-can with HMRC, hed have handed them their P45. But thats not where his instincts are. On Sunaks watch, the umbilical cord linking the Tories to the working-class voters who stood by the party in 2019 is being severed. I like him. But when it comes to this tax stuff, he lives on another planet, one Cabinet Minister conceded. One Tory Red-Waller said: They just dont understand. They dont know how my people live. Next year Britain will go to the polls. The plumbers, brickies, electricians, scaffolders, painters, decorators and hairdressers will get to deliver their verdict. Rishi Sunak and Nadhim Zahawi may not understand now. But on that day, they will. A mum-of-two who suffered from post-natal depression and anxiety is now turning over an average of $1million dollars a year selling at-home nail kits. Melbourne mum Natalia Kajkic co-founded the brand DIPD Nails in 2020 with reality television star Natalie Stamp after the two met at an airport. Ms Kajkic, 36, told FEMAIL from a young age she's been driven to have multiple streams of income as she grew up in a financially unstable home. 'I was raised by a single mum and we really struggled financially - there were times when we didn't have a car - so growing up all I ever wanted was things we couldn't afford,' Ms Kajkic said. Melbourne mum Natalia Kajkic (left) co-founded the brand DIPD Nails in 2020 with reality television star Natalie Stamp (right) after the two met at an airport DIPD Nails offer dip powder manicure sets for customers to do their own nails in the comfort of their own home, without the smell of any nasty chemicals (pictured: Ms Kajkic with her two daughters) 'My younger sister and I never had any money for the school canteen and we didn't have many toys to play with; from a young age I developed this mindset of how can I have more than what I have right now?' Today Ms Kajkic is forever grateful for the success she's achieved in business, and believes others who want the same outcome can achieve it if enough hard work is dedicated. The DIPD Nail starter kit costs $129.90 and creates 10 manicures DIPD Nails offer dip powder manicure sets for customers to do their own nails in the comfort of their own home, without the smell of any nasty chemicals. While the concept of dip powder nails isn't new in the beauty world, hardly any were available in Australia. The business idea came about nail salons were closing due to Covid-19 lockdowns, leading customers to find alternatives. After doing some research, Ms Kajkic stumbled across an alternative product and recommended it to Ms Stamp, who then pondered the idea of creating their own beauty nail line. The two invested $2,000 each into the brand and chose a local manufacturer in Melbourne who was about to go out of business because of the pandemic. In the first week alone the business received 300 orders and to this day their biggest sale on record was 27,000 orders in 24 hours. The two founders also split the responsibilities and revenue evenly. Ms Kajkic started the business to become financially stable and occupy her mind after suffering post-natal depression after both pregnancies Not only did the business help Ms Kajkic become financially stable, but it helped ease her thoughts on self-worth when she became a mum. While Ms Kajkic always wanted children, the drastic lifestyle change and identity shift associated to becoming a mum was 'overwhelming'. She experienced anxiousness, often struggled leaving the house and was boggled by 'what if' scenarios if something were to go wrong. 'In so many ways, I feel that motherhood is the greatest achievement. But perhaps because of pressure from society and the cost of living, I wanted to occupy my mind in a different way,' she said. 'And now I hear so many mums say that want to start a side hustle for themselves and feel a sense of achievement in another way - especially if they're not working. 'Now this gives me flexibility as a mum because I'm not desk bound to a job.' In the first week alone the business received 300 orders and to this day their biggest sale on record was 27,000 orders in 24 hours. To date Ms Kajkic claims the brand has turned over close to $3million dollars (pictured right: sales over the last month) To date the brand has received more than 50,000 orders from customers across Australia and the world, turning over $3million dollars. Ms Kajkic was also able to purchase her 'dream car' - an $80,000 Range Rover Spot - which took years to save for. 'I've managed to achieve so much because I'm not afraid of taking risks - but I've also had a lot of failures. I lost $10,000 to a business during the manufacturing process when the factory shut down,' she said. The kits are suited for women who don't want to spend upwards of $60 every time they visit a nail salon. It's also a therapeutic form of self-care. The standard DIPD Nail kit includes enough powder to redo a manicure ten times. Anastasia Beverly Hills has become one of the best-known brands in the beauty business - selling millions of brow products each year, thanks, at least in part, to the endorsement of dozens of A-list fans, from Oprah Winfrey to Jennifer Lopez. As of 2018, the brand was valued at a staggering $3 billion, an impressive achievement for any business owner - but particularly for one who, just 34 years ago, was a Romanian immigrant who found herself in Los Angeles 'without language skills or financial means'. How times have changed for Anastasia Beverly Hills founder and CEO Anastasia Soare. Just this week, the 66-year-old beauty mogul, who is worth an estimated $660 million, marked the 25th anniversary of her brand at a star-studded dinner party attended by some of Hollywood's most recognizable faces, from Kris Jenner and her daughter Kim Kardashian to Cindy Crawford and Oprah. The event, which was also held in celebration of Oprah's 69th birthday, was the perfect milestone moment for Soare - who, in the past three decades, has cemented her status as one of Hollywood's most sought-after beauty experts. But Soare has not always lived such a high-profile lifestyle. Anastasia Soare, founder and CEO of Anastasia Beverly Hills, has built up her beauty empire into one of the most recognizable global brands Soare hosted Oprah's star-studded 69th Beverly Hills bash which counted JLo, Sofia Vergara and Kim Kardashian among its guests Before she was the go-to beauty guru, the entrepreneur had been living in Romania with daughter Claudia when she decided to emigrate to Los Angeles. She found work in a beauty salon and soon saw a gap in the market helping women to hone the perfect eyebrows. Having found her niche, she pounced and has run with it ever since with product lines, TV appearances and even patents on her trusty 'Golden Ratio' makeup technique. And soon celebrities became loyal devotees. Earlier this week, she hosted Oprah's star-studded 69th Beverly Hills bash which counted JLo, Sofia Vergara and Kim Kardashian among its guests. Here, FEMAIL documents her journey from an unknown immigrant to the figurehead of one of the most reputable makeup brands in the world. Pictured: The beauty guru, 66, alongside Hollywood elite Oprah and JLo Oprah's birthday party, hosted at one of Soare's brow bars, also counted Kim and Kris Jenner among its guests Soare (left with Sofia Vergara, and right with Heidi Klum) quickly became bosom buddies with the Hollywood elite through her brow business Anastasia Soare fled from Romania 'without language skills or financial means' Soare grew up during the communist era in Romania when the country was experiencing a period of great unrest. She had studied art and architecture where she learnt the history of the 'Golden Ratio' which, little did she know at the time, would go on to become her brand's signature eyebrow-shaping technique. Soare's patented technique: What is the Golden Ratio? The Golden Ratio exists when a line is divided into two parts and the longer part (a) divided by the smaller part (b) is equal to the sum of (a) + (b) divided by (a), which both equal 1.618, according to Canva. Speaking about how she applied it to cosmetics, Soare previously told FEMAIL: '[At school], we would study highlight and shadow, balance and proportion, and I realized years later that the same principle could be applied to beauty, from eyebrows and contouring to eyeshadows and lips.... 'Our eyes are intrinsically trained to spot divine proportion and immediately associate it with beauty and harmony.' Advertisement 'Growing up I also spent a great deal of time in my mother's atelier,' Soare previously told FEMAIL. 'It was there that I first picked up on the concept of proportion, that different angles and fits hitting at certain parts of unique bodies could be instantly more flattering. 'She was also my entrepreneurial inspiration. 'My mother worked tirelessly and made her clients feel their absolute best. 'It was her I wanted to emulate when I started in business.' In 1989, Soare immigrated to Los Angeles with young daughter Claudia in tow in search of something more 'significant.' 'Without knowing the language or a single other soul,' the entrepreneur quickly found her feet and got a job as a salon esthetician. Soare said: 'I always had an interest in beauty, but I got a job as an esthetician out of necessity. 'I was an immigrant, and it was work I could do without needing to speak the language. 'While working, I noticed a glaring gap in the market - no one was paying attention to their eyebrows. 'I had this stroke of inspiration that maybe the same Golden Ratio I learned about in art school could be applied to shaping brows, bringing balance and proportion to my clients' faces. The concept took off. 'And when later I realized that products for brows didn't exist either, I was excited to fill that niche as well.' Soare decides to go it alone and launches her flagship salon Soare's revolutionary process proved transformative enough to gain a cult following and she decided to break out on her own in 1992. She rented a small space with the intention of becoming solely devoted to brows and was soon visited by a whole host of famous faces that included Naomi Campbell, Michelle Pfeiffer, Faye Dunaway and Cindy Crawford. The beauty guru continued to go from strength to strength and opened her Beverly Hills flagship salon in 1997. 'The landlord didn't believe I could pay rent with eyebrows. It was only after a very long talk that I convinced him to rent me the space,' it says on Soare's site. The beauty guru went from strength to strength and opened her Beverly Hills flagship salon (pictured) in 1997 Speaking about the store's (pictured) opening, Soare said: 'The landlord didn't believe I could pay rent with eyebrows' 'The very first week, a line would form even before the store would open which the landlord was able to see from his office. 'That was best told-you-so I could imagine.' The following year the makeup mogul appeared on The Oprah Winfrey Show to do the host's eyebrows live on air. Afterwards, Soare said her phone did not stop ringing for six months and she capitalized by launching the company's first product line in 2000. Each weekend, the entrepreneur would visit department stores across the country to promote the company's brow services and show clients how to use the products. In 1998, the makeup mogul appeared on The Oprah Winfrey Show to do the host's eyebrows live on air The brand, which launched in Sephora and Ulta soon after, then became an early adopter of Instagram where it used the platform to showcase the diversity of its brow makeup line. In a grassroots approach to marketing, high-profile individuals were sent products along with a SonyA6 camera - and it paid off. Soon the brand had secured collaborations with dozens of talented artists, including Amrezy, Nicole Guerriero, and Mario Dedivanovic, which helped continue to grow its presence on the platform where it currently has 19.1 million followers. The beauty guru continues to make shrewd business decisions and Soare ends up bosom buddies with Hollywood elite The name Anastasia soon became synonymous with brows, with products in more than 25 countries around the world. Speaking about her success, Soare said: 'I spent countless hours working, perfecting my craft, and striving to be the best. 'My success was a combination of inspiration, innovation, and a great deal of hard work.... The name Anastasia soon became synonymous with brows, and Soare had secured multiple patents on the Golden Ratio Eyebrow Shaping Method by 2015 'Finding new and innovative ways of giving our customers something of quality has blossomed into a passion that fuels me daily.' Soare, who has always been an advocate of giving back, set up the Anastasia Brighter Horizon Foundation in 2013 with the aim of providing individuals the opportunity to attend beauty school, build a career and pursue a passion. She said: 'The country gave me and my family so many wonderful opportunities, and I wanted to find a way to give back.' In a shrewd business move, Soare had secured multiple patents on the Golden Ratio Eyebrow Shaping Method by 2015, and began adding more products to its line including a pre-assembled Contour Kit and Liquid Lipstick. Soare (alongside Priyanka Chopra and Jessica Alba), who now lives in Beverly Hills, continues to count A-list celebrities among her client base Earlier this week, Oprah held a star-studded 69th Beverly Hills bash at Soare's (left with Sharon Stone, right with Cindy Crawford) brow bar, which was celebrating its own 25th anniversary In 2018, the company received an investment from private equity firm TPG that valued it at $3 billion, which helped 'enhance its operations and growth, with a focus on e-commerce and international expansion.' Today, the brand continues to thrive. It launches an average of eight to 10 new products each year and Soare still counts A-list celebrities among her client base. Earlier this week, Oprah held a star-studded 69th Beverly Hills bash at Soare's brow bar, which was celebrating its own 25th anniversary. The likes of JLo, Sofia Vergara and Kim Kardashian were all in attendance as Soare continues to help famous faces create the perfect eyebrows. Princess Catharina-Amalia of the Netherlands was a picture of joy as she assisted in the release of a sea turtle during her two-week tour of the Dutch Caribbean Islands. Joined by her parents King Willem-Alexander and Queen Maxima, the princess has been embarking on a tour of the scenic islands over the past week. After visiting Bonaire and Aruba, the Dutch royals are now in Curacao until Monday, before heading to St Maarten, St Eustatius and Saba next week. On Friday, Amalia, 19, was photographed releasing a sea turtle back into the wild during a visit to Sea Turtle Conservation Curacao as Maxima watched on. The family later embarked on a tour of the Hofi Mango planta area, and visited the Jump-In Tumba Festival on day seven of their tropical adventure. Princess Catharina-Amalia of the Netherlands was a picture of joy as she assisted in the release of a sea turtle during her two-week tour of the Dutch Caribbean Islands Joined by her parents King Willem-Alexander and Queen Maxima, the princess has been embarking on a tour of the scenic islands over the past week Maxima, 51, has become known for her vibrant looks - and did not disappoint today in a bright blue V-neck sun dress, wide-brimmed hat, nude heels and colourful blue, black and white earrings. At one point in the day, the Dutch Royal Family posed together for a photograph in front of a stunning backdrop of rolling Caribbean hills covered in lush greenery. The family's vibrant outfits all complimented each other, with Princess Amalia opting for a deep blue, patterned dress. She also opted for a sun hat to shield her eyes from the gorgeous weather. Meanwhile, King Willem-Alexander donned a light purple dress shirt and smart trousers - of course, accompanied by a pair of stylish sunglasses. After visiting Bonaire and Aruba, the Dutch royals are now in Curacao until Monday, before heading to St Maarten, St Eustatius and Saba next week The family later embarked on a tour of the Hofi Mango planta area, and visited the Jump-In Tumba Festival on day seven of their tropical adventure After visiting Bonaire and Aruba, the Dutch royals are now in Curacao until Monday, before heading to St Maarten, St Eustatius and Saba next week It comes after Maxima and Willem-Alexander celebrated their 21st wedding anniversary in Curacao on Thursday with a day of royal visits. Thursday was the sixth day of the family's tour of the Dutch Caribbean, which has been organised to introduce the young Princess of Orange to the islands. The royal party toured the Otrobanda district, talking to residents and artists and watching musical performances. On Friday, Amalia, 19, was photographed releasing a sea turtle back into the wild during a visit to Sea Turtle Conservation Curacao as Maxima watched on The family's vibrant outfits all complimented each other, with Princess Amalia opting for a deep blue, patterned dress At one point in the day, the Dutch Royal Family posed together for a photograph in front of a stunning backdrop of rolling Caribbean hills covered in lush greenery Maxima, 51, has become known for her vibrant looks - and did not disappoint today in a bright blue V-neck sun dress, wide-brimmed hat, nude heels and colourful earrings The family will enjoy some down-time at the weekend, before they head to Saint Marteen In the afternoon the royal party visited the Punda and Scharloo districts, for the King to strike a coin marking the 25th anniversary of Willemstad becoming a UNESCO World Heritage site. They then went on a walking tour, culminating at the Princess Amalia Bridge, where the party listened to the Amalia Waltz, a piece composed for the Princess. They enjoyed a lunch with representatives of the Curacaoan authorities in the Governors Palace, before a dinner in the evening at Van Doornen Cathedral. The dinner was organised with 21 residents who make a valuable contribution to their community attending. The number of guests was chosen to reflect the royal couples 21st wedding anniversary on that day. The family will enjoy some down-time at the weekend, before they head to Saint Marteen. Read more: Kate Middleton in new video to launch her new Early Years campaign Princess of Wales, 41, shares new baby picture of herself with her father Michael The Princess of Wales has shared a sweet baby picture of herself with her father as she launched her campaign to shine a spotlight on the 'early years' of childhood. A joyful young Kate is pictured with her father Michael Middleton in a never-before-seen photograph taken by her mother Carole. In the image, Kate, now 41, reaches towards her father's face - and royal fans are already drawing comparisons to the royal's youngest son, four-year-old Louis. It comes as the mother-of-three kicked off her new 'Shaping Us' initiative on Monday with a glitzy reception at BAFTA in London. The campaign hopes to 'raise awareness of the life-changing impact we can have, when we build a supportive, nurturing world around children and those who care for them' in their early years. The Princess of Wales has shared a sweet baby picture of herself with her father as she launched her campaign to shine a spotlight on the 'early years' of childhood In the image, Kate, now 41, reaches towards her father's face (left) - and royal fans are already drawing comparisons to the royal's youngest son, Louis (right) Royal fans were quick to point out similarities between a young Kate and her four-year-old son, Prince Louis Sharing the new photograph on social media, Kate said 'faces are a baby's best toy'. She added: 'This weekend, we'd love for you all to spend time with your friends, families, colleagues and communities talking about your early childhoods and how they've shaped your lives. 'I hope you'll also consider joining me in sharing a picture of yourselves before your fifth birthday to help with those conversations and to share some smiles and memories too.' Royal fans were quick to point out similarities between a young Kate and her four-year-old son, Prince Louis. One said: 'At first glance I thought that was a photo of Louis!!' Another added: 'How much did Louis look like his momma at the same age?' A third commented: 'Wow, that pic is Louis through and through!' Sharing the new photograph on social media, Kate said 'faces are a baby's best toy' The Princess of Wales has launched her new initiative - described as her 'life's work' - to shine a spotlight on the crucial 'early years' of childhood. It will receive an ambitious advertising blitz in cinemas and on billboards across the country. On Tuesday, Kate appeared in a promotional video which was shared on her social media pages, donning a smart green blazer with a black round-neck top underneath. She said: 'Our early childhood, the time from pregnancy to the age of five, fundamentally shapes the rest of our lives. 'But as a society we currently focus much more of our time and energy on later life.' Kate added: 'To raise awareness of the life-changing impact we can have, when we build a supportive, nurturing world around children and those who care for them. The Princess of Wales appeared in a new video which was shared on her official social media pages One royal fan said: 'At first glance I thought that was a photo of Louis!!' Pictured: Prince Louis By focusing our collective time, energy and resources on these most preventative years, we can make a huge difference to the physical and mental health and happiness of generations to come.' The campaign, which launched formally on Tuesday, is a long-term project for the princess, beginning with how a child develops and the importance of the formative years. It will 'explore in more depth the importance of a child's social and emotional world' and the significance of relationships, surroundings and experiences. The multi-media campaign is part of a major push by the Royal Foundation Centre for Early Childhood, set up by the princess in June 2021. Kate made a stylish splash in a red trouser suit as she launched the campaign in London The project, which launched formally on Tuesday, is a long-term project for the princess, beginning with how a child develops and the importance of the formative years It is set to run for at least five years, and has been described by a Kensington Palace spokesman as the princess's 'life's work'. Reports produced by the Early Childhood centre have revealed that the first five years shape future wellbeing more than any other stage of development, with our brains growing faster than at this time than any other. It also hopes to 'break the cycle' for parents who experienced difficult childhoods themselves. Palace aides say the idea for the project began even before Kate became a mother. This is that shouting is 'absolutely off limits' for the three young royals at home Kate and William have 'one strict household rule' for their children, insider says The Princess of Wales has a very strict household rule for her three children that is 'absolutely off limits', a royal insider has claimed. The source claims that Kate, 41, won't allow the royal children - George, nine, Charlotte, seven, and Louis, four - to shout inside the house. 'Shouting is absolutely off limits for the children and any hint of shouting at each other is dealt with by removal,' an insider told The Sun. Kate and William reportedly opt for a rather different technique when it comes to disciplining their children. Rather than being sent to their bedroom or the 'naughty step', they are 'taken away from the scene of the row or disruption and talked to calmly by either Kate or William', the source said. The Princess of Wales has a very strict household rule for her three children that is 'absolutely off limits', a royal insider has claimed They added: 'Things are explained and consequences outlined and they never shout at them.' Royal experts have previously made other revelations about Kate and William's parenting techniques, with one telling Okay! magazine that the royals are 'very strict on screen time'. Katie Nicholl claimed that the Princess of Wales is keen to encourage creativity in her children, and said they aren't permitted their own mobiles or tablets. She revealed: 'The emphasis during this time will be on arts and crafts, painting and doing things that arent screen-orientated. The source claims that Kate, 41, won't allow the royal children - George, nine, Charlotte, seven, and Louis, four - to shout inside the house 'Shouting is absolutely off limits for the children and any hint of shouting at each other is dealt with by removal,' an insider said 'Kate is usually very strict on screen time and keeps it to a minimum.' A source previously told US weekly that William and Kate had 'banned iPads' in their home, commenting that they were 'adult-toys' and not for children. Kate believes that spending time outdoors plays a pivotal role in children's future health and happiness, building foundations that last through childhood and over a lifetime - and is keen to find ways to encourage this. Kate and William reportedly opt for a rather different technique when it comes to disciplining their children It comes as the mother-of-three kicked off her new 'Shaping Us' initiative on Monday with a glitzy reception at BAFTA in London. The Princess of Wales has launched the campaign - described as her 'life's work' - to shine a spotlight on the crucial 'early years' of childhood. It will receive an ambitious advertising blitz in cinemas and on billboards across the country. On Tuesday, Kate appeared in a promotional video which was shared on her social media pages, donning a smart green blazer with a black round-neck top underneath. She said: 'Our early childhood, the time from pregnancy to the age of five, fundamentally shapes the rest of our lives. But as a society we currently focus much more of our time and energy on later life.' Princess Eugenie and her husband Jack Brooksbank could be about to do their own Megxit as they may be considering following Prince Harry and Meghan to sunny California after the birth of their second child. A friend tells me the Sussexes have been sending 32-year-old Eugenie, the youngest daughter of Prince Andrew, details of homes close to where they live in Montecito. But I'm told the couple are instead looking at homes in the West Hollywood area of Los Angeles, and they plan to rent first before taking the plunge and snapping up a property. America won't be totally unfamiliar territory for Eugenie, who spent two years living in New York between 2013 and 2015, when she worked for the auction house Paddle8. At the moment Jack and Eugenie, who have just announced they're expecting a sibling for two-year-old August, split their time between the UK and Portugal, where Jack works in high-end property development. AMERICAN GIRL: Princess Eugenie (pictured) could be following her cousin Prince Harry to the West Coast of America Princess Eugenie (left) and her husband Jack Brooksbank (right) with their son August Philip Hawke Brooksbank (being held by his mother) attend the Platinum Pageant on The Mall on June 5 last year for the Queen's Jubilee A friend has said Prince Harry (right) and Meghan (left) have been sending Eugenie details of homes close to where they live in Montecito, California Although he recently took a job at Discovery Land Company with property tycoon Mike Meldman, a transition is likely to be fairly smooth as the company's core properties are dotted around the United States. When in Britain, Jack and Eugenie have been staying at Frogmore Cottage in Windsor. The late Queen gave the property to Harry and Meghan before they left to pursue their American dream. My source tells me: 'With a growing family, it all feels like it is about new starts. This isn't just a pipe dream.' Eugenie is known to be close to Harry she was pictured with her cousin at the Super Bowl last February, and in his memoir, Spare, Harry writes that Eugenie and Jack were the first Royals to meet Meghan. Of this first meeting, Harry wrote: 'I remember Euge hugging Meg as if they were sisters.' Pregnant Princess Eugenie showed off her growing bump last week as she stepped out for dinner at the Chiltern Firehouse in London Sarah Ferguson, 63, and Princess Beatrice's husband Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi were later seen making their way home from private members' club Maison Estelle Eugenie gave birth to her first son August Philip Hawke Brooksbank, who is 13th-in-line to the throne, at London's Portland Hospital in February 2021. Last week, Princess Eugenie showed off her growing baby bump as she stepped out for dinner at the Chiltern Firehouse in London. She was spotted as she left the Marylebone restaurant last Tuesday evening. The mother cut a cosy look as she joined her mother Sarah Ferguson, 63, for dinner. The Duchess of York, who declared herself in 'granny heaven' over the happy news, was then later seen leaving Maison Estelle with Princess Beatrice's husband Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi. Posting a tribute on Instagram to her youngest daughter last week, Fergie wrote: 'You will be sharing puddles, Augie! Superb news, Granny heaven. So deeply grateful.' This came after Eugenie shared her pregnancy news by posting an adorable snap on Instagram showing her one-year-old son August kissing her stomach last Tuesday. Princess Eugenie quickly followed a formal statement on her second pregnancy with an Instagram post, showing her son August hugging her blossoming bump, revealing she's due to give birth in the summer The royal shared that her husband, financier Jack Brooksbank had taken the snap She wrote: 'Were so excited to share that there will be a new addition to our family this summer.' There was also a camera emoji and the words 'by Jack'. It was not the first time the daughter of the Duke and Duchess of York has broken her big personal news this way - she took a similar approach in 2020 when she announced that she was expecting her first child. Posting a photo of baby slippers on Instagram, she wrote: 'Jack and I are so excited for early 2021'. McDonald's secret menu items from other countries can be 'ordered' in the UK McDonald's restaurants from all over the globe offer a range of items that simply can't be found on the United Kingdom menu. The secret menu is legendary amongst dedicated customers of the fast food chain as it offers them a way to customise their orders to their heart's content. However, as well as off-menu specialties becoming a common trend, using a few tricks UK customers can now craft menu items found only in other countries. These feature items such as the McChicken Mozzarella found only in South Korea and the Triple Chicken Mayo from Spain. Using carefully crafted hacks and some DIY using the menu, buyers can make a range of these items without leaving the country. Here is a list of foreign menu items you can make yourself in the UK: In addition to secret menu items becoming a common trend, using a few tricks, UK customers can now craft items found only in other countries Triple Chicken Mayo Price to Make: 3.57 Ingredients needed: Three Mayo Chicken Sandwich (1.19) While the UK McDonald's has now introduced the Triple Cheeseburger onto their menus, customer's are yet to receive a Triple Chicken Mayo. Thankfully, the Spanish delicacy can be simply made using three items. To build this item, all you will need is three Mayo Chicken Sandwiches, and then insert two of the chicken patties into one bun. The Triple McChicken Sandwich that can only be found in Spanish McDonald's stores McChicken Mozzarella Price to Make: 6.78 Ingredients needed: McChicken Sandwich (4.49) & (Mozzarella Dippers (2.29) This unique burger from South Korea that includes mozzarella dippers can be made using only two items from the UK menu. Making this item is thankfully quick and easy, to make it all you will need is a classic McChicken Sandwich and top it with Mozzarella Dippers. In Korea, the burger is also topped with a special sauce, however, you can add your own if you prefer. Although Mozzarella Dippers are not currently featured on the menu, customers can wait for their return this year or opt for the current cheese side option of the Cheesy Garlic Bites for 2.29. The McChicken Mozzarella from South Korea is the perfect option for those looking to try something new Almighty Texan BBQ Bacon Burger Price to Make: 2.69 Ingredients needed: Bacon Double Cheeseburger (2.69), Mayonnaise (free) & Barbecue Sauce (free) New Zealand's Almighty Texan BBQ Bacon Burger is perfect for barbeque lovers and needs little to none customisation. All you will need is a Bacon Double Cheeseburger, with ketchup, mustard and pickles removed, and them top it with free barbeque sauce and mayonnaise. This simple yet effective burger is sure to be a crowd pleaser. Contrary to its name, the Almighty Texan BBQ Bacon Burger is found on the New Zealand menu Quarter Pounder BLT Price to Make: 5.29 Ingredients needed: Quarter Pounder with Cheese (4.49), Bacon (60p), Tomato (20p) & Lettuce (free) For those looking to built their own take of the BLT next time you visit McDonald's, look no further than Canada's very own Quarter Pounder BLT. To craft this item, buyers will need a Quarter Pounder with Cheese with an add on of both bacon, lettuce and tomato. Although the customisation may add a little to your typical meal, the changes will transport you to another country without the cost of a plane ticket. Canada's Quarter Pounder BTL gives customers an interesting take on the classic BLT McChicken Barbecue Price to Make: 5.49 Ingredients Needed: McChicken Sandwich (4.49), Bacon (60p), Cheese (40p), Fresh Onion (free) & Barbecue Sauce Pot (Free) The McChicken Barbecue is yet to be included on the British menu, but the Brazilian burger can be made easily. Your order for this burger will consist of a McChicken Sandwich, with an add on of bacon, cheese, and fresh onion. Customers will also need to remove the mayonnaise and shredded lettuce. Once you have your order add your free barbecue sauce onto the burger, and there you have it. Brazil's McChicken Barbecue will be perfect for anyone looking for a saucy change to their usual meal Loaded Bacon & Cheese Basket of Fries Price to Make: 2.69 Ingredients needed: Medium Fries (1.69), Bacon (60p) & Cheese (40p) This Australian item is sure to become a favourite for fries lovers. It can be made quick and easily by adding bacon and cheese to your standard order of fries. For those wanting the cheese melted, quickly popping them under the grill or in the microwave is sure to give the desired finish. McDonald's is introduced their Loaded Fries in all restaurants in Australia in a world first Mont Blanc Burger Price To Make: 7.38 Ingredients needed: Quarter Pounder with Cheese (4.49), Bacon (60p), Mozzarella Dippers (2.29), Lettuce (Free), & Mayonnaise (Free) The Mont Blanc Burger from Russia features the interesting addition of a cheese patty on their beef burgers. Although you can't get a whole cheese patty on the UK menu, this can be substituted for Mozzarella Dippers or whatever cheese side is on the current menu. Grab a Quarter Pounder burger, remove the ketchup and pickles, add in your bacon, lettuce and mayonnaise and finish it off with your Mozzarella Dippers. The Russian Mont Blanc Burger provides a twist on the usual Quarter Pounder Burger Coke Float Price to Make: 2.11 Ingredients needed: Coca Cola (1.27) & Mini McFlurry (99p) The Coke Float may appear to be an unusual for UK customers, however, it is the perfect item on a warm day in Hong Kong. Although this item may be a little messy to craft, the end result is worth the work. The items consist of the classic Coca Cola and a Mini McFlurry - you can customise for the ice cream to be without the toppings on top. To make, simply mix the two together. A mother-of-two given a shock lung cancer diagnosis has thanked a supermarket pizza for saving her life. Janette Schofield, of Oldham, Greater Manchester, was clueless about her disease until she suffered a freak accident while cooking an Asda meat feast pizza. She was left in 'excruciating' pain after fracturing her spine when she fell checking on the dish out of the oven. But tests taken at the hospital also revealed the 45-year-old had an abnormal 4cm growth on her left lung. It left her needing emergency surgery and four rounds of chemo. Janette Schofield, of Oldham, Manchester, was left in 'excruciating' pain after fracturing her spine when she fell taking an Asda meat feast pizza out of the oven (pictured above with one of the pizza recently). But on arrival at the hospital, doctors also detected a lesion - an abnormal growth - on her left lung She was enrolled on the cancer investigation pathway at Oldham Chest Clinic on January 6, 2022 and undertook a series of tests and scans to determine the cause and size of the lesion. Pictured after emergency surgery in February 2022 'In a way, this snack was responsible for saving my life,' Ms Schofield told MailOnline. On December 14, 2021 in need of a quick dinner, she settled on purchasing a 4.75 meat feast pizza from Asda. But minutes after putting the dish in the oven, Ms Schofield bent down to open the oven door to check on it, when she lost her balance and slipped. Landing on her back, she told how an 'excruciating' pain spread across her back, both shoulders and head. Discussing her ordeal with MailOnline, she said: 'I felt a bit shocked as I realised I couldn't get back up and quickly, panic started to set in. 'The longer I was on the floor, the more my legs started to go numb it was terrifying.' She called out to her son, Adam, 23, who then asked a neighbour for help. After ringing for an ambulance, they escorted the unemployed mother to Royal Oldham Hospital. Upon arriving, medics discovered Ms Schofield had suffered a small spinal fracture. Although painful, she was still able to walk. But doctors also detected an abnormal growth on her left lung. Photos of her lungs were sent to Oldham Chest Clinic to assess whether she needed a referral to check for suspected cancer. After being discharged the following day, Ms Schofield was able to move without crutches. After putting the Asda meat feast pizza (pictured above) in the oven, Ms Schofield lost her balance and slipped But she received a call a week later from the hospital confirming she had been referred to the chest clinic, following concerns over the photos of her lungs. She was enrolled on a cancer investigation pathway on January 6, 2022 and undertook a series of tests and scans to determine the cause of the lesion. Further X-rays and blood tests were taken as well as a fitness and breathing test, but the cause remained a mystery. A biopsy to determine if it was cancerous also failed, so she was then referred to Wythenshaw Heart and Lung Centre, Manchester at the beginning of February for emergency surgery. Ms Schofield said: 'I was given three choices; radiotherapy, where I would risk losing half my lung, a frozen biopsy, where they would take a section of the tumour and 15 per cent of my lung or to remove the tumour and some of the lung entirely. 'I chose the third option, as they would also remove the three adjoining lymph nodes and test for spread.' On February 25, after undergoing the procedure, Ms Schofield was told by a surgeon the lesion was lung cancer. 'All I can remember is lying in recovery', she said. 'But I was just thankful it was all gone. 'I felt relief and while it was a little painful, as they had to drain into my side and remove any fluid that had built up on my lung, I wasn't stressed.' On February 25, after undergoing emergency surgery at Wythenshaw Heart and Lung Centre, she was told by a surgeon the lesion was lung cancer. Pictured above during chemotherapy treatment In July 25, 2022, Ms Schofield was able to celebrate by ringing the bell to mark the end of her cancer treatment (pictured) and in November, was declared to be in remission Despite surgery, in April 2022, Ms Schofield began the first of four separate rounds of chemotherapy. Pictured above during treatment Lung cancer is the most common cause of cancer death in the UK, accounting for around a fifth of all deaths from the disease. It kills almost 35,000 people each year in the UK and more than 127,000 in the US, figures show. Just one in five men, and one in five women with lung cancer live for more than five years, in the UK. This is partly because lung cancer often doesn't cause tell-tale symptoms, such as a persistent cough, until it has progressed. Smoking is the most common cause of lung cancer, accounting for more than 70 out of 100 cases, according to the NHS. But, even people who have never smoked can also develop the disease, which mainly affects older people. Despite surgery, six weeks after the operation Ms Schofield's lymph nodes still showed traces of the disease. And in April she began the first of four separate cycles of chemotherapy. She said: 'I knew that this would be unpleasant for my body and a few days after my first session, I ended up being taken to hospital due to being unwell. 'I was admitted to the acute medical unit for three days while they tried to increase the lack of fluid within my system. 'But I carried on with chemotherapy even though it was making me sick.' On July 25, 2022, Ms Schofield was finally able to celebrate by ringing the bell to mark the end of her cancer treatment and in November, she was declared to be in remission. She currently attends follow up appointments every three months and these are set to continue for the next five years. She said: 'I'm still struggling with my health but my body has been through a lot of treatments to get rid of the cancer. 'I'm glad I slipped over and hurt myself it's the only reason I'm still kicking about today and it's all because of a miracle pizza.' Pacific island Nauru ranks top of the league tables with half of adults smoking It's already the fattest nation in the world. But Nauru's unwanted accolades don't stop there. For the remote island, nestled away in the Pacific, also tops the charts for smoking. Just under half of adults living there (48.5 per cent) smoke. The nation of 12,500 people was followed by Myanmar, previously known as Burma (44.1 per cent) and Kiribati, another Pacific island. A fascinating interactive map published by Our World in Data which MailOnline app users can see by clicking here shows the rates globally. At the other end of the spectrum, smoking prevalence rates are below 5 per cent in parts of Africa. Ghana comes bottom of the pile, according to the most recent global data for 2020 published by the data-tracking site. Smoking rates in the country of 33million people stand at 3.5 per cent. It is followed by 3.7 per cent in fellow west African nation Nigeria, and 5 per cent in Panama, situated in central America. For comparison, the global average stands at around 23 per cent. Smoking rates are 15.4 per cent in the UK, 23 per cent in the US and 13.6 per cent in Australia. The 10 countries with the MOST tobacco smokers Nauru- 48.50% Myanmar- 44.10% Kiribati- 40.60% Serbia- 39.80% Papua New Guinea- 39.30% Timor- 39.20% Bulgaria- 39.00% Lebanon- 38.20% Indonesia- 37.60% Latvia- 37.00% Advertisement The 10 countries with the LEAST tobacco smokers Ghana- 3.50% Nigeria- 3.70% Panama- 5.00% Ethiopia- 5.10% Turkmenistan- 5.50% Sao Tome and Principe- 5.70% Togo- 6.80% Benin- 6.90% Senegal- 6.90% Cameroon- 7.30% Advertisement Nauru is not just known for it's picturesque beaches and lakes, such as Buada Lagoon pictured. Almost half of the island's 12,500 population smoke, with 48.50 per cent of adults lighting up, according to figures from 2020 Data suggests only 3.50 per cent of the 32.83 million people in Ghana smoke tobacco. Pictured, a sky view of Accra, the capital of Ghana The table comes from the World Development Indicators, which recorded smoking trends between 2000 to 2020. Stats show the share of men and women aged 15 and older who smoke any tobacco product on a daily or non-daily basis. Despite there being an active tobacco industry in Ghana for more than 50 years, the West African country has the lowest rates of smoking, which could be due to its strict advertising bans. In comparison, many Asian countries with high smoking rates only have a partial ban on tobacco advertising or no ban at all, meaning tobacco is can be advertised on TV and in print media. Charts also published by the data site show how rates have plunged over the past few decades. For instance, rates have more than halved over the past 20 years in Britain. In 2000, 37.9 per cent of the adult population smoked, which is similar to Indonesian figures today. A fascinating map published by Our World in Data suggests many countries see a rise, peak and then decline in smoking prevalence with higher smoking rates in wealthier countries. The map above shows smoking prevalence in 2000, illustrating high smoking rates across Europe and Asia. In 2000, 37.9 per cent of adults smoked in the UK, 33.8 per cent smoked in the US and 24.4 per cent smoked in Australia. However, 63.4 per cent of adults smoked in Nauru, according to the data. But at this time Pacific island Kiribati, topped the charts for smoking with 68.50 per cent of smokers In 2005, smoking rates began to decline slightly in Europe. Here the map shows that 30.1 per cent of adults smoked in the UK, 30.6 per cent of people smoked in the US and 21.1 per cent smoked in Australia. Smoking prevalence also declined in Nauru, although it still remained at 59.2 per cent In 2010, the data shows a decline in smoking across the globe. In the UK, 24.1 per cent of adults smoked. This decline comes after the 2007 law which banned smoking in any pub, restaurant, nightclub, and most workplaces and work vehicles, anywhere in the UK. A decline in smoking can also be seen in the US as prevalence drops to 28 per cent and in Australia as smoking rates drop to 18.2 per cent The increasing amount of orange and yellow on the world map shows that by 2015 smoking rates had decreased even more. In Ghana, smoking prevalence dips below 5 per cent and sits at 4.2 per cent. A big drop in smoking rates can also be seen in India as rates drop from over half in 2000 to 32.2 per cent in 2015. However, smoking in many other countries in the Pacific and south Asia remained high. In France, the smoking rate remained the same throughout the 20-year period at 33.7 per cent The most recent data from 2020 show smoking rates have more than halved over the past 20 years in Britain. Here rates are 15.4 per cent in the UK, 23 per cent in the US and 13.6 per cent in Australia. The global average stands at around 23 per cent Similarly in the US, rates have dropped from 33.8 per cent over the same time period. Experts say this is also down to the introduction of tough rules to stamp the habit out for good, such as ad restrictions and laws to stop smoking inside public spaces. Smoking is responsible for around 8million premature deaths every year, with it known to cause heart disease, stroke, and over a dozen types of cancer. Jessica Alves wants to be 'first in the queue' for a pioneering trans womb operation, when science catches up to her dream of becoming a mother. The trans star, who gave up on getting the operation in 2021 , told MailOnline she was still dreaming of one day having a belly bump. Prominent experts in the field anticipate the pioneering transplants will be ready for trans women who were born male within the next few years. And Jessica, an ex-Celebrity Big Brother housemate, claimed she would absolutely consider going under the knife. The presenter, 39, said: 'It is a dream to be mother and to have a bump in my belly and knowing I can have that extension of myself.' Jessica Alves, 39, told MailOnline she would still consider having a womb transplant to fulfill her dream of becoming a mother, she is pictured here at The Cher Show at the New Wimbledon Theatre in Southwest London on January 31 This graphic shows the potential way a person born a biological man could have a womb surgically inserted into the body, paving the way for first ever male pregnancy Currently, womb transplants are restricted to infertile biological women wanting to become mothers and are only available in trials. Only tiny modifications would be needed to make it a reality for men too, according to world-renowned voices in the transplantation field. Jessica told this website she was frustrated by the inability to have a child naturally. 'I've had all the surgeries I can to be as close as possible to a biological woman,' she said. 'But I can't have children, which is very frustrating.' Jessica, who has spent over 800,000 on 70-plus surgeries to transform her appearance, said she often mentally felt like a pregnant woman due to the hormones she took. EXCLUSIVE: Womb transplants for TRANS women are 'very likely in the near future', claim top fertility experts... so here's how world-first op would be carried out This graphic shows the potential way a person born a biological man could have a womb surgically inserted into the body, paving the way for first ever male pregnancy Advertisement 'My brain is totally female,' she said. 'Sometimes I feel constantly like a pregnant woman because of the high level of hormones.' Jessica, who has made over 1million from posting racy snaps on the subscription site OnlyFans, originally considered getting a womb transplant back in 2021. This was shortly after her vaginoplasty in February that same year, a surgery that gave her a functioning vagina using tissue partly taken from her penis. As she had sperm frozen shortly before having her testes removed as part of the surgery, if she were to get a womb transplant, she could theoretically carry her own biological child via IVF. This could see a donor egg being fertilised with Jessica's frozen sperm and then implanted into the donated womb. But the Brazilian British TV personality said that, after seeking advice from multiple doctors both in the UK and Denmark, she was scared off by the risks associated with the surgery. The operation has never successfully been carried out in a transwoman before. Only one attempt has been made, back in 1931. Danish artist Lili Elbe, who was born male, had the surgery in Germany with the hope of being able to have children with her fiance. However, she died from a cardiac arrest brought on by a post-surgery infection three months after the operation without having conceived a child. 'The risks were very scary and I couldn't take that chance,' Jessica said. Like with any organ transplant, there is an inherent risk of rejection, where the body's immune system attacks it as a foreign object. Jessica said she was also warned about the risk of a potentially deadly infection from the extensive surgery, which can take up to 11 hours. She said these risks were part of reason she stopped pursuing the surgery. Jessica who originally pursued a womb transplant in 2021 was put off by the risks associated with surgery but said if the science improved she'd be 'first in the queue'. The Brazilian British TV personality was pictured here in London on January 27 The other reason she said was her desire for a vaginal birth. Babies which develop in a transplanted are born via C-section currently. Jessica said in her case she was told her vagina would be unable to dilate enough for the baby to be born vaginally. However, she claimed if the science were to come far enough to give her dream, she would jump at the chance. 'If anything changes in the future, I would be the first in the queue,' she said. However, like other women her age, Jessica was worried about being an older mum. 'I may look younger because I really take care of my appearance and I've had a lot of surgery in order to keep my looks, but I turn 40 in July,' she said. However, Jessica rejected the idea that such a procedure would be part of gender-affirming care, something put forward by the latest paper on the subject. Read more: Should brain dead women be kept alive and used as SURROGATES? Expert floats idea of organ donor-style arrangement so women can agree to letting their body be used to give childless couples a chance at having a baby But Dr Anna Smajdor, an associate professor in philosophy at the University of Oslo, also claimed it could be a viable option for women who 'prefer not to' carry a child. It would also be an option for infertile and gay couples Advertisement 'My transition is completed, I don't need gender affirmation,' she said. 'I'm a woman and it's on my birth certificate.' Transgender people born in Brazil can change the gender recorded on their birth certificate if they have undergone sex reassignment surgery. In comes as experts behind North America's first womb transplant from a deceased donor, which resulted in the birth of a child, said similar surgery for trans women is only a few years away. The team, from the prestigious Cleveland Clinic in Ohio, wrote about the possibility of performing the surgery on a biological man in Fertility and Sterility. Campaigners argue transgender women should have the same right to carry a child as a woman born female. Wombs could come from deceased women and donors who have decided to have their own reproductive organs removed which can happen when women decide to become men. But not everyone agrees. Some critics have labeled the prospect as a 'selfish exercise' by transwomen that is 'insulting' to motherhood. Around 100 womb transplants have been carried out globally since 2014, when the procedure was first successfully performed by experts in Sweden. Dozens of women have also successfully gone on to get pregnant thanks to the procedure in combination with IVF. It is not routinely available in Britain yet but experts hope they will be in time. Dr Rebecca Flyck, lead author of the new article, said not opening the surgery up to transwomen would be a form of discrimination. 'As we increasingly recognise a history of inequality and discrimination for transgender women, we must question whether it is acceptable that transgender women are denied access to clinical trials based on their gender identity and trans status,' she said. Jessica has had more than 70 surgical procedures to alter her appearance over the years costing over 800,000. In December she revealed that her bum implants became 'displaced' after she got up too soon while she was still recovering from surgery in Turkey Jessica recently recently revealed that she has managed to make over a million pounds through her provocative photos on the racy subscription website Onlyfans She added that giving transwomen wombs would help address the mental anguish they suffered by not being able to fully embrace their gender identity. 'Further, as studies accumulate revealing high levels of depression and suicidality in trans women and demonstrate the emotional impact of reduced procreative ability in this population, we must consider the potential benefits of bringing uterus transplantation to transwomen,' she said. Dr Flyck added it was a matter of when the surgery was conducted, not if. 'The first uterus transplant in a transgender female in the 21st century is anticipated to take place within the next few years, if not sooner,' she said. The article by Dr Flyck and colleagues doesn't provide a detailed guide into how this potential surgery would be conducted. But it is likely the first step would be a transwoman undergoing a vaginoplasty, so that their body is more similar to that of a biological woman. This extensive operation involves crafting a neovagina using tissue from elsewhere in the body, such as the penis or a section of bowel, and provides a base to attach a transplanted womb. Could a womb transplant make it possible for a biological man to get pregnant? The ultimate goal of giving a biological male a womb transplant would be giving them the chance to become pregnant. We don't know at this stage if this would be possible, only one attempt has been made, all the way back in the 1930s and wasn't successful. But fertility treatment has come a long way since then. Children have been delivered by woman who have had a womb transplant via IVF, an egg fertilised in the lab being implanted into the womb. In theory, this process could be also applied to a transwoman. They could then receive a hormone regime that mimics those a woman's body produces naturally during pregnancy to support the development of the baby. These regimes already exist for biological females with hormonal disorders. Babies that have been implanted in womb transplants before have been born via C-section and it is presumed the same would be true for transwomen. Experts have cautioned however that we know very little about how this process could and if this type of pregnancy would be carry any risks to the foetus and/or mother. Advertisement This process would also likely involve the removal of the testicles to stop the production of male hormones that could interfere with a future baby, with sperm being frozen for potential future fertility treatment. Theoretically, this could see transwomen get pregnant with their own babies, similar to biological women who can do IVF using their own pre-harvested eggs. After a recovery period following the vaginoplasty, the transwoman could then seek a womb transplant. Like other organ donations, such as kidney or liver, a transwoman wanting a womb would need to find a donor with the same blood and tissue type. A womb removed would come with some of the attached blood vessels required to feed the organ, in exactly the same way it would for a biological female patient. It would then be surgically inserted into the transwoman in a major op connecting it to their neovagina. Dr Flyck and colleagues said the procedure, which could take upwards of 11 hours, would run almost identically to that performed for a biological female. However, surgeons would need to beware of one additional complication. There is a significant difference in the width of the internal iliac vessels, which feed the lower part of the body, between men and women. The size difference varies between specific individuals, but is roughly about 1.6mm wider in biological females. The authors said a mismatch between the two, with a smaller vessel connected to a larger one, carries the risk of generating a dangerous blood clot. However, they add this risk could be mitigated by trimming the blood vessels so that they match. They added that another challenge is the health of the neovagina. In comparison to a natural vagina, they claimed a neovagina lacks the same amount and distribution of blood vessels. This means there's potential risk the surgical connection between it and the donated womb could fail. Like with any organ donation, the transwoman would need to take immune system suppressant drugs to prevent their body from rejecting the transplant. Dr Flyck and team also considered how a transwoman who receives a womb could become pregnant and then ultimately give birth. IVF would be the only option as a womb transplant does not include the ovaries or fallopian tubes that store and transport eggs making natural pregnancy impossible. A transwoman wishing to carry a baby to term would also need to receive artificial hormones to mimic those the female body generates in a normal pregnancy. There are already established hormone regimes available for this, which are used by biological women with hormonal disorders during pregnancy. And like normal uterus transplants, the baby would probably be born via C-section due to risks a vaginal birth poses to the surgical connection between the vagina and the donated womb. Despite saying they supported the case for clinical trials of womb transplants in transwomen, the experts acknowledged there are 'several significant' unknowns about the safety of the procedure, especially long-term, and more data is needed. Uterus transplants, which are only available for reproductive purposes, are normally removed following the birth of a single child, but sometimes are kept for two. But a transwoman might, in theory, want to keep their womb for longer as part of treating their gender dysphoria by allowing them to menstruate. The authors said this prospect could carry unknown dangers to the patient. 'For transgender women who wish to preserve their transplanted uterus indefinitely with immunosuppression for the purpose of menstruation and enhanced gender alignment, the risk/benefit ratio is unclear and potentially worrisome,' they said. While allowing a biological male to give birth would represent a major scientific breakthrough, some critics have described the idea as 'dystopian'. Feminist author Milli Hill, who has spoken against the rise of inclusive, and often women-erasing, terminology in healthcare, said the prospect felt like a 'very selfish exercise' and even 'insulting' to women. 'In some ways the idea that a male can give birth if only they have a uterus is quite insulting to women, reducing us to mere incubatory vessels, she said. 'We know pregnancy, birth and motherhood are an incredibly complex biological and emotional journey for women.' The idea transplanting a uterus would alleviate a transwoman's gender dysphoria was also flawed, she claimed, reducing the identity of being a woman to a simple biological check list. Ms Hill said: 'What does the idea that uterus "equals more female" mean for women who have undergone hysterectomy, for example? Are they somehow less female?' She added that such logic also contradicted the trans-movement itself, given how society is told to accept all transwomen, including those with intact male biology, as the exact same as biological females. 'We are often told a person with a penis and a beard may now be a woman, because it is the persons inner sense of their gender that dictates who they are, not their biological sex,' she said. This is not the first time that womb transplants for transwomen have been discussed in the modern era. In May last year, Indian surgeon Dr Narendra Kaushik said he was planning to transplant a womb into a transwoman with the goal of them eventually becoming pregnant. Womb transplants are successfully performed in the US, with a patient in Ohio being the first in the country to carry a baby to term using the transplanted womb from a deceased donor in 2019. The pioneering operation saw womb and blood vessels removed from a 45-year-old woman herself a mother who had died of a stroke. They were then implanted into a new mother, who was born without a womb of her own, in an almost 11-hour operation, and the blood vessels connected to her own. The women then began to menstruate 37 days after the op and then had regular periods until she became pregnant seven months later. An embryo was implanted using eggs which had been taken from her ovaries before the womb transplant procedure and fertilised using IVF. The baby grew healthily and was born after 35 weeks and three days by caesarean section. During the caesarean, the woman's implanted womb was also removed and both mother and baby recovered normally. Transwomen cannot get pregnant naturally as, due to being born male, their bodies do not produce the eggs needed for fertilisation, in addition to not having a womb to carry the developing baby. But transmen those who were born women and then transitioned to become men can become pregnant. This is because they still have the reproductive system of a female, unless it has been removed as part of gender affirming surgery. There are no definitive figures when it comes to how many transmen have given birth worldwide, or in Britain. Seventy-five people who identified as male gave birth in Australia in 2020, the most comparable country with data. The majority of Americans support banning tobacco products for the first time in history, according to an official survey. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) found 57.3 percent of people were in favor of 'prohibiting the sale of all tobacco products'. Women and young adults aged 18 to 29 years old were most likely to support banning the products which included cigarettes, cigars as well as vapes. Previous research indicates this is a major jump in support, with a 2018 Gallup poll suggesting 25 percent of Americans believed smoking should be outlawed. Experts today heralded the public as 'ahead of policymakers and even public health', adding that it was a 'big shift' from just a few years ago. It comes amid surveys laying bare America's vaping crisis the latest tobacco trend showed one in ten middle and high schoolers are addicted to vapes. The CDC analyzed data from a poll of 6,455 Americans on their opinions regarding a ban on tobacco products For the research, CDC scientists analyzed responses to a 2021 web survey on adults in the United States. It recruited 6,455 Americans randomly by mail and was carried out by the New York-based pollster Porter Novelli who run the SpringStyles survey. Respondents were asked whether they 'strongly' or 'somewhat' supported or opposed the ban. Those who 'strongly' or 'somewhat' supported it were considered to be supporters, while those who 'strongly' or 'somewhat' opposed it were considered to be against it. Tobacco products were considered to include cigarettes and cigars as well as vapes, which are defined as tobacco products by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Data were adjusted for demographic factors like age groups to give a suggestion of support across the US population. Results showed a majority of women and men supported a ban on selling all tobacco products, although women were more likely to back the move. There are growing concerns over the health risks posed by vaping A majority of people in all age groups also supported the ban, although support was strongest among young adults aged 18 to 29 years old. It was lowest among 45 to 59-year-olds, although 55.1 percent said they would back the ban. Among current smokers, 25.2 percent said they would support the ban. Respondents were also surveyed on whether they wanted a ban on menthol cigarettes the last flavored cigarette in the US. Some 62.3 percent said they did, with the majority of people in all age groups, ethnic groups, educational attainment groups, and income groups saying they would support the move. Among current menthol cigarette users, 36.7 percent said they would back the ban. The CDC did not release data for what proportion of people 'strongly' or 'somewhat' supported or opposed either policy. There is no directly comparable poll available, but other surveys suggest that support for banning tobacco products has been rising for years. A 1968 poll conducted for the tobacco industry found that only 13 percent of Americans believed cigarettes should be banned. But by 2018, a Gallup poll found that 25 percent believed that smoking should be made illegal. Dr Robert Proctor, a history professor at Stanford University, who has argued for ending the sale of tobacco products told STAT News: 'This is a big shift from only a few years ago, when it was hard to find anyone willing to talk about the end of tobacco.' Dr Ruth Malone, a tobacco industry researcher at the University of California, San Francisco, added to the publication: 'The public is ahead of policymakers and even public health on this issue. 'We need to be bold and we need to be braver. 'There's a lot of anxiety over calling for something bold like this.' The CDC researchers did not suggest why support for banning tobacco sales has been rising in recent years. But there is growing awareness among people of the health costs of smoking cigarettes and concerns over the damage vapes do to the lungs. The FDA has announced plans to ban the sale of menthol cigarettes in the US. By February 2022, at least 145 US communities had prohibited the sale of menthol cigarettes and other flavored tobacco products. Humphrey decried son's poor care aged 3 and now says wrong to keep him alive Twenty-three years ago, veteran BBC reporter Humphrey Hawksley wrote in The Mail on Sunday of his struggle to find support for his severely disabled three-year-old son, Christopher. Securing basic care was a 'constant battle', even though Christopher, who was born with complex conditions, including cerebral palsy, required round-the-clock medical assistance to help him walk, eat and communicate. Humphrey told of his exasperation at physiotherapy cancellations, the dire shortage of nurses and the reams of paperwork required to get vital medical equipment. 'Everything is there,' he wrote, 'but you don't get it unless you turn into a shouting, raving lunatic.' Today, more than two decades on, the situation for the Hawksley family has not improved. Indeed, it is far worse. Christopher, now 26, is technically homeless. He is affected by multiple, profound disabilities that mean he requires two care staff at all times to keep him safe. He is mostly wheelchair-bound, doubly incontinent and is on the autistic spectrum. KEYS TO HAPPINESS: BBC journalist Humphrey Hawksley (left) playing keyboard with Christopher (right), 26, last week Christopher (right) getting treatment in 2000 with help from his dad Humphrey (left) and mum Jonie (rear) This means looking after him can be challenging. If frustrated, he also bites and throws things. Yet local health chiefs have failed to find him a suitable permanent home since he left his specialist residential college in 2019. For three years he has been in an emergency respite centre an hour and a half away from his family's West London home. These facilities are meant to provide basic care for disabled people for a few weeks. There is no daily schedule of outings to bowling, the cinema, piano lessons one of the few activities that allow Christopher to express himself or swimming and physiotherapy, which was the case at his residential college. He's lucky if he gets a walk around the block. The Hawksleys are living on a knife-edge: there is no guarantee Christopher won't be evicted and transferred to an emergency bed at the local hospital. 'We visit once a week to take him for a walk around the grounds for exercise,' says Humphrey, 68. Most worrying, Christopher has a tendency to self-harm. 'He's always scratched his face when in distress, bored or has a lack of routine,' says Humphrey. 'We think it's got worse.' IT'S A FACT Men with a learning disability have a life expectancy 14 years shorter than that of the general population, according to data from Mencap. Advertisement Humphrey is keen not to blame the care workers, though. 'They do the best they can, but the home is simply not designed to handle someone with such complex disabilities permanently.' Christopher was born as one of triplets in February 1996, but his siblings didn't live longer than a week. And while Christopher did survive, he suffered a build-up of fluid on his brain and had to be kept alive by a machine. Humphrey and his wife Jonie, both then 41, were given a choice doctors could perform a series of risky, invasive operations that might save Christopher, or they could turn off the machine, sparing him a life of disabilities. 'He was our child. We had to save him,' says Humphrey, simply. Today, though, he makes a heartbreaking admission: he wonders if that was the right decision. There is no daily schedule of outings to bowling, the cinema, piano lessons one of the few activities that allow Christopher to express himself or swimming and physiotherapy, which was the case at his residential college. Pictured: Christopher at the theatre with his family Christopher (left) was born as one of triplets in February 1996, but his siblings didn't live longer than a week. And while Christopher did survive, he suffered a build-up of fluid on his brain and had to be kept alive by a machine Humphrey and his wife Jonie, both then 41, were given a choice doctors could perform a series of risky, invasive operations that might save Christopher, or they could turn off the machine, sparing him a life of disabilities He says: 'I'm not going to be around forever. My job as a parent is to keep Christopher safe and make sure there is someone to look after him when we're gone. 'But I've come to the conclusion there is no one in Britain who can do that. So maybe keeping him alive wasn't the right thing to do after all.' For three years, The Mail on Sunday's Dignity For Disabled People campaign has uncovered cases of young people with brain injuries left in old people's homes, and families of severely disabled children denied suitable housing. Shockingly, it is those with profound and complex disabilities such as Christopher who are most likely to fall through the cracks. About 16,000 people in England are affected by more than one disability and need medical and behavioural support. The NHS can pay for a patient's residential care at facilities that already exist, or commission both local authorities and private companies to build new services. But according to data collected by learning disability charity Mencap, three-quarters of local authorities struggle to find housing for this vulnerable group. There are several reasons for this, according to Kari Gerstheimer, chief executive of the charity Access Social Care but mostly it comes down to money. She says: 'These patients are the most expensive to look after. They require lots of skilled staff and equipment.' Most residential homes for severely disabled adults are run by private firms, but the money that funds them comes from either social services or the NHS. And local health services are known for holding back cash. 'Sometimes they try to wriggle out of paying for one element of care, like equipment, by saying it is the local council's responsibility,' says Gerstheimer. Sam Carlisle, a campaigner and the parent of a disabled young adult, agrees: 'From what I've heard, there is a lot of game-playing by local NHS teams to try to save cash. 'The local NHS health team judges a certain facility to be 'inappropriate', but it is actually because it's too expensive and they don't want to fund it.' What's more, cash-strapped local councils are struggling to keep up with rising fees for care homes. Gerstheimer adds: 'All this means is care homes don't make enough money, so they eventually close or won't offer places to residents they think will be too expensive.' Families such as the Hawksleys found themselves with nowhere to turn when their concerns about Christopher's living arrangements first arose in 2017, when he was 21 and soon to leave residential college Last November, the care charity Leonard Cheshire announced it was evicting residents in some of its 120 care homes because the local authorities couldn't meet the costs. The charity, which houses about 3,000 people with complex disabilities, said it had already spent 'millions of pounds' subsidising care for local authorities. Staff shortages are a problem too. A 2021 report by the Royal College of Nursing found that the number of specialist learning disability nurses has fallen by about 40 per cent over the past decade. Overall, vacancies in adult social care are the highest since records began in 2012, according to an official report last year. The result is that families such as the Hawksleys found themselves with nowhere to turn when their concerns about Christopher's living arrangements first arose in 2017, when he was 21 and soon to leave residential college. The family began searching for a facility that would help him live as independently as possible, and compiled a shortlist of 57 across the UK, many of which had been recommended by staff at the college. But after further investigations, only two were suitable. 'Either the rooms weren't wide enough for his wheelchair, or there was no ceiling hoist to help get him in and out of bed,' says Humphrey. 'Some were full, while others just said they couldn't cope with his level of needs.' And by 2019, when Christopher was ready to move on, there were no spaces in either home. It meant local health chiefs had no choice but to transfer Christopher to the centre where he currently lives, in East London. The family were told he'd be there for a couple of weeks. Christopher pictured playing keyboard outside with family The following two years saw Christopher's hopes built up and then crushed, twice. First, in April 2021, a private provider proposed a place at a soon-to-be-built supported living facility in Purley, Croydon. But after more than a year of assessments, Humphrey was told they could not take Christopher after all. He says: 'They said they were short of staff so couldn't meet Christopher's needs.' The company told The Mail on Sunday that the recruitment challenges 'could not have been foreseen' at the time it offered Christopher a place. The family pursued another lead organised by Hammersmith and Fulham Council in West London an apartment in a supported living block for adults with special needs, with care provided by housing association Metropolitan Thames Valley Housing. The flats were yet to be built but the council had promised Christopher a place, and it was just a few miles away from his family. In June last year it emerged that the lift in one of the firm's blocks elsewhere had been out of service for four years.Severely disabled residents had been forced to climb painfully down the stairs, or call ambulances to help them, according to local newspaper reports. Eventually, Metropolitan Thames Valley Housing withdrew its place, just over a year after it was offered, citing staffing problems. Christopher pictured on the water in a boat with family IT'S A FACT A fifth of disabled people housed by a local authority say their accommodation is unsuitable, the Equality and Human Rights Commission claims. Advertisement Humphrey has called on the help of public officials including Ben Coleman, deputy leader of Hammersmith and Fulham Council, and his local MP, Labour's Andy Slaughter. Mr Slaughter promised, in an email, to make enquiries. 'Neither has been particularly helpful,' says Humphrey. In December, Humphrey took Christopher's case to the Parliamentary and Health Services Ombudsman an independent body that investigates complaints about Government departments and healthcare providers. The case will not be investigated until October. The Mail on Sunday also contacted public officials about Christopher's case, including Mr Slaughter and the current Disabilities Minister, Tom Pursglove. Neither would speak to us. Is there any solution that could help Christopher and the thousands like him? 'We need the Government to build more places for people with complex disabilities,' says Sam Carlisle. 'But also, the care of disabled people is too complicated. It involves multiple departments, like housing, health, benefits and social care. It means if one department doesn't want to take responsibility, it can push the problem on to another.' She adds: 'Medical advances mean we've got really good at saving very ill babies, but we haven't quite worked out how to look after them as they grow up with disabilities.' In a statement, Metropolitan Thames Valley Housing said: 'We provide care and support services in over 60 settings, supporting a variety of people, including those with learning disabilities and a mental health diagnosis.' Hammersmith and Fulham Council said: 'It is deeply disappointing that Metropolitan Thames Valley Housing has been unable to recruit the required carers to support Christopher's needs. We are extremely keen that Mr Hawksley continues to work with us, and with the NHS, to discuss options for bringing Christopher's care closer to home.' Across Britain, people are at risk of contracting food poisoning because of poor hygiene standards in takeaways, sandwich bars, pubs and restaurants. According to data released by the Food Standards Agency (FSA) there are currently more than 800 establishments in England, Wales and Northern Ireland with a food rating of zero. In Scotland, there is a different rating system where businesses either pass or need improvement. Businesses in England, Wales and Northern Ireland are scored out of five and firms must be marked at least a three to pass muster. Last month, a report by the Food Standards Agency found one in five UK takeaways failed basic food handling an cleanliness checks. Environmental Health Officers have told MailOnline that they work with business owners to bring up their facilities to the required standard. If this does not succeed then it is possible that a firm could be sent forward for prosecution. According to the Sentencing Council, food safety and hygiene breaches can be tried either at Magistrates' Court where the maximum fine was capped at 5,000 per offence until 2015, when the law was amended. In April 2021, Tesco was fined a record 7.56million after admitting 22 breaches of the Food Safety and Hygiene Regulations by selling out of date food. Your browser does not support iframes. Among those receiving a zero rating is AMR Catering in Hay-on-Wye, home to the town's Conservative Club. It was found to need major improvement in the hygienic handling of food and urgent improvement on the systems and checks in place to show that food is safe to eat. The cleanliness of the venue was 'generally satisfactory'. On January 3, inspectors from Bradford Council visited the Euro Mix supermarket on Haworth Road. Each of the firms on the list have received a zero food rating and have been warned that urgent improvement is necessary otherwise they could face possible enforcement action AMC Catering which is based at the Hay-on-Wye Conservative Club, pictured, received a zero food standards rating after inspectors visited the premises before Christmas Dovid's Deli in Salford was also handed notice that it had to urgently improve standards The store is located on a small terrace between a sandwich bar and a Tesco Express on the north west outskirts of the city. A Bradford Council Spokesperson told MailOnline: 'Food hygiene inspections are being undertaken by our Environmental Health Service at premises across the district including Euro Mix. CLICK TO READ MORE: HOW ONE-IN-FIVE UK TAKEAWAYS FAILS FOOD STANDARDS In some areas of the UK 20 per cent of the takeaways fail to meet food hygiene standards , a report suggests (pictured: a huge cockroach infestation at an Enfield takeaway) Advertisement 'Whilst these inspections and any revisits or further action are carried out we are unable to share any information on individual cases, however once complete we would be in a position to release our findings. 'As always high standards of food safety in our local businesses is a key priority for Environmental Health and firm action will be taken to remove any unsafe food from businesses in order to reduce the risks and protect the health of our residents across district.' A week later, on officials from Manchester City Council attended Pronto Pizza in Kingsway, Manchester to conduct a food safety inspection. The firm was one of 5,624 places serving food in the city. It is on a parade of shops around three miles south of the city centre. Officials said the business needed to make major improvements on the way it handled food, the cleanliness of the facilities and the provision of hand washing facilities and adequate pest control. The firm was also warned about staff training and whether food served by the business was being served as 'safe to eat'. In total, there are currently more than 13,000 businesses that do not reach the minimum three star standard. A KFC restaurant on High Road Leytonstone E11 received a zero rating after it was inspected on August 9, 2022 when officials found 'urgent improvement necessary' across the standards measured. The Leytonstone store received the lowest rating of all KFCs inspected last year. A further five were rated between one and two - below the minimum acceptable standard of three. At Burger King, four restaurants received ratings of one and two, including the outlet inside Birmingham's Bullring shopping centre which was inspected on December 13. The McDonald's restaurant in Brent Cross Shopping Centre in London received a rating of two on December 5, one of four to fail an inspection since June 2021. Chance & Counters board game cafe in Birmingham offers customers 'filthy fries' according to a sign on its window. Inside, inspectors found major and urgent improvement necessary at the firm when they visited on December 10, 2022 Ya Habibi restaurant in Acton, west London was found to urgently improve its standards when inspected on December 20, 2022 According to a spokesperson for the Food Standards Agency: 'If the local authority food safety officer finds that a businesss hygiene standards are very poor and there is an imminent risk to health this means food is not safe to eat the officer must act to make sure that consumers are protected. 'This could mean prohibiting part of an operation or closing the food business down until it is safe to recommence operation. A local authority food safety officer will work closely with food businesses that get low ratings to make sure they improve their standards. 'They will tell the business how quickly these improvements must be made which will depend on the type of issue that needs to be addressed. As well as giving advice and guidance, officers have several enforcement tools that they can use to make sure that the improvements are made.' During 2022, 1,335 food businesses were rated zero in 2022 and this has fallen to 806, though this figure changes daily when new ratings are added. The spokesperson continued: 'The Food Hygiene Rating Scheme (FHRS) gives people information about the hygiene standards in food businesses, and they can use the rating to help decide where to eat out or shop for food. 'Ratings are a snapshot of the standards of food hygiene found at the time of inspection by food safety officers from local authorities. 'The scheme gives business ratings from 5 (very good) to 0 (urgent improvement required). Ratings can be found online and on the green and black stickers displayed at business premises.' The spokesperson added: 'The FSA advice to people when choosing where to shop, eat out or order food is to check that the business has a food hygiene rating and choose only those with a higher rating.' La Porchetta Pollo Bar and Pizzeria on Old Compton Street in London also received a zero food rating Tottenham: Costa customer films 'revolting' flies and ants crawling over treats In Tottenham a 'shocked' Costa customer saw what he claims was 'revolting' ants and flies crawling over their festive treats - only for staff to allegedly tell him the infestation 'doesn't bother' other customers. Daniel Renak, 34, had been craving something sweet after his lunch when he ventured into Costa Coffee on Fore Street in Tottenham late last year. But Mr Renak, an operations manager from Borehamwood, Hertfordshire, was 'quickly put off' after claiming to spot some of the chain's festive range 'crawling with ants'. The concerned customer flagged the issue to a member of staff but says he was told 'it doesn't bother some of our customers' and that the manager was already 'aware'. After suggesting the staff remove the food, he claims the baristas had 'no intention' of throwing it away and it remained on display for 25-30 minutes afterwards. A Costa Coffee spokesman said: 'At Costa Coffee we take food hygiene extremely seriously and incidents like these are unacceptable. 'We have robust cleaning and hygiene procedures in place and our franchise partner, who owns and operates the store, have taken immediate action. We have responded to the customer to apologise for their experience.' Ant attack: A customer claimed they saw ants and flies crawling over the festive treats in the Costa Coffee on Fore Street in Tottenham Staffordshire: Mouldy food and unrefrigerated meat stored next to tools and paint In 2022 in Staffordshire, a former pub boss was fined more than 3,000 after hygiene inspectors found mouldy food and unrefrigerated meat stored next to tools and paint. When inspectors visited the George and Dragon in Alrewas, Staffordshire they found 'extensive' mould growing on meat pies and fisherman's pie stored unrefrigerated on the floor of a dirty storeroom. Richard Maley, 50, from Bridgend, Vale of Glamorgan, was the director of the company running the pub and restaurant when the offences occurred in 2016. He was fined 1,280 and ordered to pay 1,800 court costs and a 32 victim surcharge. Maley is no longer associated with the restaurant which now has a five-star hygiene rating. He had been due to attend North Staffordshire Justice Centre in 2017 but failed to turn up. In a Staffordshire pub, two uncovered homemade cooked meat pies were found, as were a tub of uncovered cooked chicken, ham-and-leek filling, a covered jug of gravy and a covered jug of diced sausage and bacon stored unrefrigerated next to a box of DIY waste on dirty stairs Maley had been due to attend North Staffordshire Justice Centre in 2017, but failed to turn up Grimsby: Filthy Chinese takeaway shut down by health inspectors for the SECOND time in four years Stomach-churning pictures show inside a filthy Chinese takeaway that health inspectors shut down for the second time in four years. Revolting images show the filthy kitchen covered in rat droppings and pools of vermin urine while meat was left defrosting in a sink and dumped in dirty washing-up bowls. Owner Wen Yi Cao, 50, of Grimsby, admitted 13 severe food hygiene offences when he appeared at Grimsby Magistrates' Court on July 15. Council officials made the shocking discovery during a routine inspection of China House takeaway in Grimsby last November and temporarily closed it down, saying it posed an 'imminent risk' but it has since reopened. Pictures released on Facebook by North East Lincolnshire Council on July 19, taken inside the eatery on Pasture Street, also show dirty cooking utensils, stained tea towels and mouldy food containers. In January 2022, China House was re-inspected by council officers where it achieved a food hygiene rating of three, meaning it was 'satisfactory'. Customers trolled a Chinese takeaway for 'putting the grim in Grimsby' after health inspectors released stomach-churning pictures from inside. Pictures from a Grimsby Chinese show disgustingly dirty containers and shelves, with one tub caked in old food Stomach-churning images of China House takeaway in Grimsby, including extremely dirty fridges and buckets of uncovered sauce Liverpool: 27 mice are found inside filthy Chinese restaurant A pest control company found 27 mice inside a Chinese restaurant and their droppings all over the kitchen after a member of the public raised the alarm. Health inspectors declared Chung Ku, in Liverpool, posed an 'imminent risk to health' after a visit to the restaurant in 2019. A dead rodent was found on a counter used to prepare food and droppings were found on bags of sugar, the cookers and on shelving and it was given a food hygiene rating of zero. After their visit the restaurant was closed voluntarily by its owner, Dove Ross-Williams, for two weeks, during which time a pest control company found an extensive rodent infestation. The court was told inspectors revisited on August 28, 2019, where Chung Ku was given a new food hygiene rating of three. In 2021 Ross-Williams was ordered to pay a fine and costs totalling 3050. A health inspector found a dead mouse in the kitchen at Chung Ku in Liverpool in 2019 Nearly 16,700 food providers across the UK require improvements to their food hygiene, (Food inspectors in Liverpool shut a takeaway for the second time in under a year after deeming it an 'imminent risk of injury to health') Enfield: 'Huge' cockroach and rat infestation found at takeaway An Enfield kebab shop was fined thousands after health officials discovered a cockroach and rat infestation. A 'huge population' of cockroaches and their faeces were found at Ponders End Kebab in High Street during a visit in August 2020. During a follow up inspection in 2021 Enfield Councils food safety team found uncovered rat activity. The shop's director Kazim Recber, of Town Road in Edmonton, pleaded guilty to 15 offences at Highbury Corner Magistrates Court on December 9, 2021. The 42-year-old and the kebab shops limited company, EMB Catering, were told to pay a total of 4,241.12 in fines, legal fees and damages. This was the second time in four years the takeaway was made to close, and the revolting pictures showed leftover food all over the premises A 2020 survey of 2,000 adults by the Food Standards Agency (FSA) found 82 per cent of people would not consider buying food from a business with a score lower than three or four. While popular takeaway delivery apps have been refusing to sell products from restaurants who receive a food hygiene score of zero. Last year the FSA said the UK is facing 'significant risks' to its food standards after the impact of Brexit, Covid and the war in Ukraine in the last two years, according to a new report. One main concern identified was the fall in the number of inspections of food businesses because of fewer resources being available to local authorities. The other was the delay in establishing full UK imports controls for high-risk food from the EU, which could mean more unsafe products reaching the UK market. Coming to the realisation that you have a drinking problem can sometimes be the hardest part of dealing with the blight of alcohol misuse. It is thought that more than half a million people in the UK are alcohol dependent, meaning they have a strong and often uncontrollable desire to drink. This can wreak havoc on the lives of their loved ones, as well as leading to increased risk of cancers, pancreatitis, strokes, heart disease, and liver and kidney damage in drinkers themselves. But there are concerns that some people dealing with alcoholism are 'slipping through the net' due to health workers not recording their drinking habits properly. Alcoholism can lead to a higher risk of serious illnesses such as cancer, heart disease and liver damage The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (Nice) said that thousands of people every year could be missing out on help and support to curb problem drinking, or a potential referral on specialist services. It has called on health bodies to ensure people's drinking habits are correctly recorded to help improve people who need support are offered it. Logging information properly will also mean that patients are not repeatedly asked about their drinking habits, Nice suggested. Health professionals should use a validated questionnaire to ensure the information on how much and how often people drink is appropriately logged, according to Nice's new draft quality standard, which sets out improvements for care of adults with alcohol problems. Nice said that a 'large number of people who are dependent on alcohol are not receiving treatment'. A 2018 study on the GP records of 1.8 million adults across the UK found that half had no information on alcohol consumption data and under 10 per cent had a screening test score. According to figures from the Office for Health Improvement and Disparities, there were an estimated 602,391 adults with alcohol dependency in England in need of specialist treatment in 2018 to 2019. There were 107,428 people in treatment for alcohol in 2020 to 2021, it added. Among the tools used to identify potential alcoholism is AUDIT (Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test) - a quiz that has been used since 1989 to help screen people for potential alcoholism or other disorders involving drink. Backed by the World Health Organization (WHO), it is a quick and relatively simple way of judging how much alcohol you consume and whether you might need help with a potential drinking problem. We have recreated the self-assessment below so you can see how you would score: How often do you have a drink containing alcohol? a) Never (zero points) b) Monthly or less (1 point) c) 2-4 times per month (2 points) d) 2-3 times per week (3 points) e) 4+ times per week (4 points) How many units of alcohol do you drink on a typical day when you are drinking? a) 0-2 (zero points) b) 3-4 (1 point) c) 5-6 (2 points) d) 7-9 (3 points) e) 10+ (4 points) How often have you had six or more units if female, or eight or more if male, on a single occasion in the last year? a) Never (zero points) b) Less than monthly (1 point) c) Monthly (2 points) d) Weekly (3 points) e) Daily or almost daily (4 points) How often during the last year have you found that you were not able to stop drinking once you had started? a) Never (zero points) b) Less than monthly (1 point) c) Monthly (2 points) d) Weekly (3 points) e) Daily or almost daily (4 points) How often during the last year have you failed to do what was normally expected from you because of your drinking? a) Never (zero points) b) Less than monthly (1 point) c) Monthly (2 points) d) Weekly (3 points) e) Daily or almost daily (4 points) How often during the last year have you needed an alcoholic drink in the morning to get yourself going after a heavy drinking session? a) Never (zero points) b) Less than monthly (1 point) c) Monthly (2 points) d) Weekly (3 points) e) Daily or almost daily (4 points) How often during the last year have you had a feeling of guilt or remorse after drinking? a) Never (zero points) b) Less than monthly (1 point) c) Monthly (2 points) d) Weekly (3 points) e) Daily or almost daily (4 points) How often during the last year have you been unable to remember what happened the night before because you had been drinking? a) Never (zero points) b) Less than monthly (1 point) c) Monthly (2 points) d) Weekly (3 points) e) Daily or almost daily (4 points) Have you or somebody else been injured as a result of your drinking? a) No (zero points) b) Yes, but not in the last year (2 points) c) Yes, during the last year (4 points) Has a relative or friend, doctor or other health worker been concerned about your drinking or suggested that you cut down? a) No (zero points) b) Yes, but not in the last year (2 points) c) Yes, during the last year (4 points) What your score means? 0-7 points: You are within the sensible drinking range and have a low risk of alcohol-related problems. Over 8: Indicate harmful or hazardous drinking. 8-15: Medium level of risk. Drinking at your current level puts you at risk of developing problems with your health and life in general, such as work and relationships. Consider cutting down. 16-19: Higher risk of complications from alcohol. Cutting back on your own may be difficult at this level, as you may be dependent, so you may need professional help from your GP and/or a counsellor. 20 and over: Possible dependence. Your drinking is already causing you problems, and you could very well be dependent. You should definitely consider stopping gradually or at least reduce your drinking. You should seek professional help to ascertain the level of your dependence and the safest way to withdraw from alcohol. Severe dependence may need medically assisted withdrawal, or detox, in a hospital or a specialist clinic. This is due to the likelihood of severe alcohol withdrawal symptoms in the first 48 hours needing specialist treatment. The UK is set for an unwelcome barrage of new scams as fraudsters exploit QR code technology to steal from unsuspecting victims. The codes are the latest weapon in scammers' armoury and are being used in a growing number of pernicious ways, fraud experts warn. QR or 'Quick Response' codes are small, jumbled boxes of black and white squares, which operate much like a barcode. When used legitimately, they can be very useful. You simply point the camera on your smartphone at a QR code (such as those in your Mail on Sunday) and it directs you to a website automatically without you having to tap the details into your browser. - Get up to date with all the latest scam stories here Hidden menace: Scammers have found ways that QR codes can be used to trick victims into sharing personal information and bank details The use of QR codes has grown since the pandemic, when they became a popular way for smartphone users to share contact information and vaccination status with restaurants and other venues. But scammers have found ways that QR codes can be used to trick victims into sharing personal information and bank details. Nick Hunn, a strategist at the technology company WiFore Wireless Consulting, says: 'Criminals love QR codes as, for the moment, people have confidence in them. Also, because they are new and hard to fathom, people assume they are safe. 'But accessing a QR code is like clicking on an unsolicited email attachment and you could be opening a can of worms. They should be treated with caution.' QR code scams operate in a number of ways. Here are some to watch out for: HOW 'QR CODE JACKING' WORKS This is when fraudsters stick a fake QR code over a genuine one to snare unsuspecting victims. For example, a fake QR code can be put on a parking meter, electric charging point or even on a restaurant menu. The unsuspecting victim uses the code to access what is presumed to be a genuine website to pay for parking, car charging or for a meal. However, although the website may look authentic, it has been set up by scammers. When the victim enters their bank details to make a payment, this information is quickly siphoned off by the scammer and used to steal money from the victim's bank account. Alternatively, the scammer may use this personal information to trick the victim at a later date. They may phone and pretend to be from their bank and knowing the victim's personal information gives their story an air of legitimacy. Some motorists on the Isle of Wight fell prey to this crime last year when a fake QR code was stuck on parking meters in a council car park. The code sent car owners to a fake website that asked them to tap in their details to pay for the parking spot. Payments were then siphoned off by crooks. It is hard to discern a fake QR code from a real one, which is a key reason why people are especially vulnerable. But Stephen Burke, product director at the cyber security company Titan HQ, believes a careful look at the placing of the code offers clues as to whether it might be a fraud. He says: 'Always take a close look at any QR code to see if there are signs it has been plastered over a genuine one, perhaps on different paper or is peeling off.' Always scrutinise websites accessed by a QR code before entering personal information. Look out for signs it may be a fake, such as bad graphics or misspelling. Only click on websites that have an 'https' as the beginning of the address as this means it is more likely to be safe from hacking. If in doubt, shut the webpage accessed by the QR code and look up the website directly by typing the correct web address into your browser. 'QUISHING' EMAIL WITH A DODGY LINK This is when a scammer sends an email containing a QR code purporting to be from a genuine organisation such as a high street bank, the taxman or from an online retailer such as Amazon. The crook has made up a story to encourage you to use the QR code. For example, they could claim that you can use the code to enter a competition, take advantage of a special offer or buy a product. But when the victim uses the QR code, it takes them to a bogus website where any personal information they input can be harvested by the fraudster. Burke says one of the most common versions doing the rounds is scammers sending emails pretending to be from a bank and claiming that they are updating their security process. Burke says: 'Fraudsters explain that the bank is doing away with their current security system such as two-factor authentication and upgrading to use QR codes instead.' The QR code takes the victim to a website where they are asked to input the security codes or password used to access their online banking to set up the new security system. The crook then uses this information to log on to the bank account and steal savings. Burke adds: 'Everyone finds authentication codes and remembering different passwords a headache so it is easy to fall for the scam as it not only sounds believable but makes logging in easier and more appealing.' NEW PARCEL DELIVERY SCAMS Warning: Security expert Stephen Burke Parcel delivery firms increasingly use QR codes to interact with their customers a trend that is being exploited by scammers. For example, if you miss a parcel delivery, genuine firms will often put a note through your letterbox containing a QR code to scan to reschedule the delivery. But scammers can also mock up fake notes containing QR codes that lead to bogus websites. The fake website may be used to harvest private data or charge a fake 'shipping fee'. Zulfikar Ramzan, chief scientist at cyber security firm Aura Labs, explains that thieves might even send a gift in the post, purporting to be from Amazon or another online shop. The parcel will contain a QR code, which claims to offer information about how to return it or find out more information. 'Scan it and you will be directed to a website that tries to capture your personal information,' he says. 'Never scan links if you are unsure where they have come from and, instead, visit the genuine company's website.' SOFTWARE UPDATES THAT ARE BOGUS Criminals have also developed a way to use QR codes to download malware software on to your computer or smartphone. Malware is like a computer virus, which, when installed on your device, can be used to plunder your personal information. Be careful when downloading a QR code app if it asks you to install a software 'update' after scanning. If you are in any doubt about its legitimacy, refuse installation and shut down any web pages the QR code has opened. The world's weirdest car collection includes more than 200 vehicles ranging from a carpet on wheels and a giant Humvee to an amphibious MPV. Sheikh Hamad bin Hamdan, also known as the 'Rainbow Sheikh', is a member of the Abu Dhabi Ruling Family. He is understood to have seven Mercedes 500 SELs painted in different colours of the rainbow which he stores in a giant pyramid. The Arab sheikh has a taste for doing things on a large scale. He built the world's largest truck, eight times the size of the Dodge Power Wagon, with four bedrooms inside the cabin. A car-mad sheikh has built the world's biggest Hummer H1 (pictured), with stairs, a toilet with a sink and a guest space with a 360-degree view spread out over two storeys Sheikh Hamad bin Hamdan (above), also known as the 'Rainbow Sheikh', is a member of the Abu Dhabi Ruling Family Hamad constructed a motor home in the shape of a giant globe which is exactly 1 millionth the size of the actual earth. He owns the world's biggest Hummer H1, with stairs, a toilet with a sink and a guest space with a 360-degree view spread out over two storeys. The behemoth vehicle boasts a height of 21.6ft (6.6m), a length of 46ft (14m) and a width of 20ft (6m), and it is fully drivable. Built on the frame of U.S Army LARC-LX steel-hulled amphibious cargo vehicle, it runs with four diesel engines - one for each wheel. Hamad was recently spotted driving a Mercedes W128 with monster truck wheels. Alongside his lavish displays of wealth he has become a well-known philanthropist in medicine. He supplied a complete kidney stone operating theatre to a public hospital in Morocco where he continues to fund its staff. His enviable collection of motors also includes several vintage Mini Coopers and replicas of 1885 Benz Patent Motorwagens. He is understood to have seven Mercedes 500 SELs painted in different colours of the rainbow which he stores in a giant pyramid. Pictured: The Mid Spider The Arab sheikh has a taste for doing things on a large scale. He built the world's largest truck, eight times the size of the Dodge Power Wagon (pictured), with four bedrooms inside the cabin Alongside his lavish displays of wealth he has become a well-known philanthropist in medicine. Pictured: The magic carpet His personal fortune reportedly nearly rivals the Saudi king's with a net worth estimated at $20billion. Hamad's money allegedly comes from his family's control over Abu Dhabi's oil deposits. In 2011 he had workmen carve his name into his own private island in the UAE called Al Futaisi, forming waterways in the sand. His personal fortune reportedly nearly rivals the Saudi king's with a net worth estimated at $20billion. Pictured: An amphibious MPV Hamad's money allegedly comes from his family's control over Abu Dhabi's oil deposits. Pictured: Conjoined Maruti Suzuki cars Tony Hetherington is Financial Mail on Sunday's ace investigator, fighting readers corners, revealing the truth that lies behind closed doors and winning victories for those who have been left out-of-pocket. Find out how to contact him below. M.L. writes: I am sending you details of an investment I have been offered. It appears to come from Credit Suisse, offering bonds from National Grid Gas yielding 8.75 per cent. Is this for real, or is it a scam? Tony Hetherington replies: Let's get straight to the point: it's a scam. The cunning part is that these bonds do exist. They were issued many years ago and mature in 2025, so if you Google them, you will find they are real. However, the only way to get your hands on them today is through the stock market, where you would have to pay a lot more than face value so would get a lot less than 8.75 per cent. The fraudsters who called you and then emailed the details have dressed this up to look like a savings account. Digging deep: The gas bonds were issued but many years ago They have faked the Credit Suisse letterhead and logo and told you that your investment is protected by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme. They even say: 'You can make additional deposits into your new account throughout the entire period of your investment.' In reality, there is no account. The crooks say they are at 1 Cabot Square in Canary Wharf in London. This is the address of the real Credit Suisse, but when I contacted it earlier this week it was clear the investment offer was not from the bank. A spokesman told me: 'There has been an increase in recent years of consumers being targeted by fraudsters who are exploiting the brands of international banks, sometimes through the use of fake websites or impersonating employees. 'Credit Suisse actively plays its part in protecting people who are being targeted by fraudsters to prevent them suffering financial harm, and to help maintain the integrity of the financial markets.' The bank is investigating and may take action to shut down the fraudsters' website. In fact, this scam is so new that the fraudsters have not even set up a proper website. - Read This is Money's Beat the Scammers for more news stories They are just using their web address for emails to prospective victims. Their emails come from cs-asset management.co.uk an address that was registered just two weeks ago, with fees paid for only one year's use, showing the crooks do not plan to stick around. Beware too of being tricked into calling the crooks on the number they are using: 0207 043 4509. This does not belong to the real Credit Suisse. When I rang to invite the tricksters to comment, they were polite and friendly, right up to the moment they asked for my name. When I told them, the line went dead. I wonder why. National Grid was given details of the fraud involving the use of its name and bonds. Letters from HMRC make no sense to me D.H. writes: In March 2021, I applied to HM Revenue & Customs for part of my wife's unused tax allowance to be transferred to me for future and previous years. Revenue & Customs transferred this going forward, but said checks were needed for previous years. In December 2021, staff wrote, saying I had not filed a self-assessment tax return for 2020. I reminded them I had retired and my income was taxed at source. I was told to disregard the letter. Since then, I have had three letters, one saying I had no tax liability for 2018-19, one demanding 267 for the same year, and a third enclosing a cheque for 10 with no explanation. Payback: The taxman has coughed up a further 224 in refunds going back to 2016 Tony Hetherington replies: As I discovered myself recently, tax staff dealing with self-assessment and staff dealing with Pay As You Earn are not the same. Staff told me they do not even have access to each other's records. It is a recipe for chaos, confirmed when the same post brought me two Revenue & Customs letters, one saying the taxman owed me about 900 but was keeping it to cover tax due soon, while the other told me my PAYE deductions were to rocket to collect exactly the same 900. When you chased the tax office about earlier year refunds due to you, the answer was that your claims were too old to be valid. This was nonsense. You had made the claims 16 months earlier, when they were valid. You won a refund of 670. After I questioned this, staff admitted that the 267 demand was simply wrong. They owed you 10, hence the cheque. Revenue & Customs told me: 'We have apologised to Mr H for providing incorrect advice when he contacted us'. And the taxman has coughed up a further 224 in refunds going back to 2016. Delay in pension rise C.A. writes: Following a letter from the Department for Work and Pensions, I paid 1,580 six months ago to HMRC as voluntary National Insurance contributions. This was to increase my state pension, but despite writing and calling DWP monthly since then, I have had no increase. It appears DWP and HMRC do not communicate effectively. It's good to talk: It appears DWP and HMRC do not communicate effectively Tony Hetherington replies: The letter you received from DWP said that if you paid the extra contributions, your state pension would rise by more than 10 a week. I asked officials at DWP to look into why you had not been paid. They reviewed your state pension entitlement and have increased it by just over 15 a week. A spokesman told me: 'We apologise for the delay in processing Mr A's voluntary National Insurance contributions. His updated state pension award has now been finalised'. You have also received arrears of 232. Excellent. If you believe you are the victim of financial wrongdoing, write to Tony Hetherington at Financial Mail, 2 Derry Street, London W8 5TS or email tony.hetherington@mailonsunday.co.uk. Because of the high volume of enquiries, personal replies cannot be given. Please send only copies of original documents, which we regret cannot be returned. Social Chain, an online agency founded by Dragons' Den star Steven Bartlett, is to be sold in a deal worth at least 7.7million. Brave Bison, a social and digital media group, yesterday said that it had struck a deal to buy the brand. Bartlett, who also fronts the Diary Of A CEO podcast, founded the company in 2014. The media agency works with brands such as Amazon, TikTok, KFC and Apple Beats to create social media ad campaigns and perform influencer marketing services. Success: Social Chain is an online agency founded by Dragons' Den star Steven Bartlett It has 122 staff, with offices in Manchester, New York and London. Bartlett stood down as chief executive in 2020, but it is not known whether he kept a stake and so would financially benefit from the sale. Social Chain was a subsidiary of listed German ecommerce operation The Social Chain AG. Brave Bison said the agency will help it to raise its social media ad revenues seven-fold to 15million for the year. It said it will pay an initial consideration of 7.7million but this could increase if Social Chain meets earnings targets. When Unilever made Hein Schumacher its new chief executive last week, the appointment was received coolly. Analysts and investors had been expecting a big name hire for the job one of the most prestigious in the corporate world. Instead they got a boss from a Dutch dairy co-operative called FrieslandCampina. Leading consumer analyst Bruno Monteyne said: 'Investors we spoke to in recent weeks were hopeful for a more familiar name.' But one man knew exactly what Schumacher was about: renowned billionaire and Unilever investor Nelson Peltz whose daughter Nicola married Brooklyn Beckham in a lavish ceremony last spring. Shortly after the appointment, Peltz, who is sparing in his dealings with the media, told The Mail on Sunday: 'I knew him when he worked at Heinz. I was impressed by his leadership skills and business acumen.' Bold: Nelson Peltz with wife Claudia and daughter Nicola. Right: Hein Schumacher The statement confirmed Peltz had got his man. The two have worked closely together before. Schumacher rose through the ranks at Heinz for more than a decade until 2014, holding a number of senior roles and ultimately running the group's Asia business. Peltz acquired Heinz stock in 2006 and joined the board until the firm was sold for 23 billion in 2013. Now the pair are back together at Unilever. Peltz set his sights on the consumer giant early last year. He snapped up a stake through his investment company Trian Partners and, by summer, had worked his way on to the board. A turnaround specialist he was the architect behind the break-up of Cadbury Schweppes and streamlined Heinz Peltz could see Unilever was ripe for his aggressive 'shedding and splitting' strategy. Unilever has struggled with sluggish growth and caused upset by continuing to sell goods in Russia despite its invasion of Ukraine. Last year, it was blasted by a major shareholder, Fundsmith's Terry Smith, for 'ludicrous' virtue-signalling on everything from sustainability to Knorr stock cubes 'at the expense of focusing on the fundamentals of the business'. Unilever's current chief executive Alan Jope has, to critics, become a bungling boss who lacks direction. Then, in January last year, his attempt and subsequent failure to buy GSK's consumer unit for 50 billion leaked in a press report. After that, the writing was on the wall for the Scotsman. Peltz seized the moment. But he needed a general to implement his strategy. Just a month after Peltz took his board seat, Schumacher, 51, was appointed. He quickly impressed with his clear vision. So when Jope announced his retirement in September, Schumacher was already an obvious candidate to replace him. Neil Wilson, analyst at Markets.com, said: 'Peltz has his man. Schumacher is an acolyte.' The most likely next move for the pair, according to Jefferies analyst Martin Deboo, is the sale of the food division, separating it from Unilever's household products arm. Many in the City are convinced Peltz and Schumacher can pull it off. Investors are likely to back the plan and Jope's faster than planned departure signals the company is looking to move quickly. More management changes are expected. Evidence suggests change is overdue and that the rot set in long before Jope. His predecessor Paul Polman tried to get the company to list in the Netherlands and abolish its London HQ. But huge investor opposition and pressure from this newspaper forced the pompous Polman into a climbdown. People who have followed Schumacher's career predict that, although he is not so well known as his predecessors, he will move decisively. They say his boyish good looks and easy-going manner mask a ruthless operator. His restructuring at FrieslandCampina has involved asset disposals, factory closures and job cuts. Former Asda chief executive Allan Leighton, who has worked with Schumacher, said: 'He tells it as it is. He's very Dutch in that way. Very practical: 'This is how it is and this is what we're going to do about it.' ' Maybe, finally, Unilever has the boss it sorely needs. CoolCabana beach shades have become so popular on Australian beaches this summer that some are now complaining there are too many of them. But the company's Queensland CEO - who quietly started the company almost 10 years ago - has defended his genius business idea, saying the tents show Australians are finally embracing sun safety and getting serious about skin cancer. 'On a beautiful summer's weekend, the most popular beaches are filled with people enjoying the beach, that is awesome regardless of whether or not they are under a CoolCabana,' he told news.com.au. 'Its one of the best things about Australia but if we are taking melanoma seriously then people need to be able to enjoy the beach whilst also protecting themselves from overexposure to UV rays and sun damage.' Architect Mark Fraser came up with the idea of an easy to use shade while holidaying with his wife and children at Noosa on Queensland's Sunshine Coast in 2014. He saw people struggle to put up umbrella shades and thought he could design something far better. His genius hack to one of life's little annoyances has since turned CoolCabanas into a multi-million dollar global empire. However, in a bitter twist of irony, some of CoolCabanas' biggest detractors are from Noosa with locals taking to social media to blast the beach shelters. 'The natural beauty is being ruined,' one wrote on a photo of Noosa beach awash with CoolCabanas. 'Yeah, sun smart, but looking more and more like a European beach these days,' another wrote. Many social media users have taken to TikTok in recent weeks asking if they missed the memo about CoolCabanas CoolCabana beach shades (pictured) are proving very popular this summer across Australia 'We've always enjoyed the beach and like everyone, have seen beach umbrellas blow away or mum and dads struggling to fold away a springy beach shelter while in full view of beach goers,' Mr Fraser told The Sunday Mail back in January, 2021. The basic plan was that it must be wind resistant, easy to use and comfortable enough for families to spend the entire day under. He sketched out design options there and then while sitting on the beach and came up with the core idea of a centre pole and corner arms held up by sand bags. Mr Fraser, who was born and educated in New Zealand, didn't immediately see dollar signs with his invention, he was simply trying to help people avoid the dangers of the sun. He thought a better shade design would help lower sunburn - and potentially skin cancer - levels in Australia and give people better memories of their beach trips. The budding entrepreneur hired a seamstress in Brisbane to put his design together and tested it with his own family over the summer of 2014/2015. CoolCabanas inventor Mark Fraser (pictured) said his success has not changed how he lives his life Thinking about what users would and would not need in the end product led to additions such as pockets for car keys, wallets and sunglasses. Within five months of coming up with the idea on a beach in Noosa, Mr Fraser was selling first CoolCabanas to the public. By then it was winter in Australia, so he looked abroad for sales, and it worked. He launched a crowd-funding campaign through US company Kickstarter with a very modest goal of raising $4,450. He soon had more than double that, with 100 backers pledging $11,470. Mr Fraser used social media marketing in the US and soon had a hit and hip new product on his hands. It was then time to test the home market, and CoolCabanas launched in Australia in time for the 2015-2016 summer. Over the years, feedback from customers has led to a larger size option and simplified design. Though it may seem like it was plain sailing from the very start, Mr Fraser said there were tough times at first, but the very visible presence of his invention helped enormously. 'I've spent a fortune on marketing and building the brand and set up and sat under a CoolCabana countless times for half an hour then relocated further along the beach using this as an opportunity to demonstrate the product to build interest.' Online commenters defended the hot item (pictured), touting about how easy it is to put up and put down When he did that, most times at least two people asked where they could buy one. CoolCabanas, which are made in China, are on sale across the world, with the main markets being the US, Europe and Australia and have earned their designer prestigious awards in both Australia and New Zealand. But the success of the shades has inevitably led to a backlash, mostly from people complaining there are too many of them on the beach. 'Legit when we were at Noosa we were wondering how much money they've made because they were EVERYWHERE,' one person wrote on social media. 'I don't get it people aren't taking up more space than they normally would, they just have shade,' a second said. Jodie Thring took to social media with a photo of her $200 blue and white striped cabana after she joked it did not provide 'any shade' (pictured, Ms Thring's cabana) A third commenter said 'You need to see Noosa's main beach. Wouldn't even know what colour the sand is. It's covered with them.' But Mr Fraser said 'we actually have the most efficient footprint on the beach. 'A square area of shade is much more efficient for a human body to lie or sit under than the circle of shade provided by an umbrella.' He commissioned a study comparing umbrellas and CoolCabanas set up socially distanced on a beach at 1.5metres and two metres. 'What this showed is CoolCabanas were over 20 per cent more efficient and they have the benefit other beach goers can see through them,' Mr Fraser said. 'I think they're dumb, better off with something with sides,' said one person on social media, while one more wrote: 'So annoying when the whole beach is full of them though, they take up so much space' Despite his huge success, he said how he lives his life has not changed. 'I've always done my own thing and I'm not driven by money,' he said. 'Life's about memories, besides demand is such that everything goes back into the business anyway.' Mr Fraser has not been resting on his laurels, with new designs including a new type of rain umbrella, surf products, toddler products, building products and marine products. But he is well aware that it all stemmed from his original development of CoolCabanas. 'It's fantastic. Beachgoers are loving them, staying safe, and enjoying summer all I can say is wow,' he said. But there will always be someone complaining. A woman called Jodie Thring took to social media with a photo of her $200 blue and white striped cabana and said it did not provide 'any shade'. One person said 'I think they're dumb, better off with something with sides'. Another said 'So annoying when the whole beach is full of them though, they take up so much space'. What could a giant balloon over a Montana nuclear weapons base, a corn mill on 300 acres of prime North Dakota farmland, a wind farm in a windless stretch of Texas, a popular social media platform, and a nondescript office building in downtown Manhattan possibly have in common? The answer is causing growing alarm among US politicians and officials for it's China. Now, after the eyes of millions of Americans turned to the skies tracking a suspected Chinese spy balloon drifting over the country for days hard experience has taught America to assume the worst when it comes to Beijing. Fears of growing Chinese Communist government surveillance of Americans are no longer the stuff of spy movies and conspiracy theories. The threat is real. And whether it's unusual purchases of agricultural land near military installations, clandestine police stations, suspicious algorithms, or balloons, they all in one form or another pose a potential risk to America's national security. COMMUNIST EYES IN THE SKIES Beijing will no doubt complain bitterly if U.S. politicians, experts and ordinary citizens get their demand to shoot down the suspected high-altitude surveillance tool floating over America. China has rejected accusations it is a spy balloon, claiming it was actually a 'civilian airship' used mainly for weather research. But that explanation was quickly knocked down by the Pentagon. 'The fact is, we know that it's a surveillance balloon,' said a spokesman. Lockheed Martin F-22 Raptor aircraft were scrambled to 66,000 feet after the balloon was detected in US airspace and they were apparently ready to blow it out of the sky. President Joe Biden reportedly wanted to do just that until he backed off on the 'strong' recommendations of defense officials, who warned of collateral damage caused by falling debris. However, when it drifted over the South Carolina coast, the balloon was intercepted by a fighter jet that knocked it out the sky with a missile on Saturday. The US which has described the spy balloon as 'unacceptable and irresponsible' - has also challenged Chinese claims that it deviated from its planned course because of winds and has only 'limited self-steering capability'. A Pentagon spokesman countered: 'The balloon is maneuverable, clearly it's violated US air space, and again we've communicated that fact to the [People's Republic of China].' That's why the balloon's flight path over the super-sensitive Malmstrom Air Force Base, one of the bases that houses America's intercontinental ballistic missile arsenal, raised concern. Malmstrom AFB, known as America's 'doomsday' base, maintains 150 Minuteman III ICBs across 13,800 square miles of central Montana, making it the biggest complex of nuclear arms in the western hemisphere. Lockheed Martin F-22 Raptor aircraft were scrambled to 66,000 feet after the balloon was detected in US airspace and they were apparently ready to blow it out of the sky. However, sitting nearly smack down in the middle of Montana, 200 miles from Canada, it is curious to say the least that a wayward balloon would just so happen to pass directly over it. The military says the balloon would only have been capable of capturing images of limited intelligence value and nothing that would not have been visible to Chinese satellites, but that has done little to calm nerves. In response to the incident, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken cancelled a weekend visit to China, offering to reschedule under different 'conditions.' Blinken would have been the first Biden administration cabinet secretary to visit China and the first secretary of state to go there in five years. Whether or not the balloin was intended to spy or disrupt the Blinken visit remains to be proven, but those tasked with America's national security are understandably reluctant to take anything China says at face value. DC AGREES ON ONE THING CHINA IS NOT A FRIEND US suspicions over Chinese government 'infiltration' - shared by both Republicans and Democrats - are hardly surprising given that China's autocratic premier Xi Jinping has increasingly demanded the country's businesses conform to the aims of the ruling Chinese Communist Party (CCP). Chinese corporations are left in little doubt by the Beijing regime that they exist principally to further government goals rather than make profits. Last month, Florida governor Ron DeSantis announced that he intended to ban big and 'aggressive' Chinese land purchases in his state. 'You don't want them buying farmland, controlling our food supply. You don't want them near military bases,' he said. 'But do you want them building a resort in Florida either? I don't.' Now, Gov DeSantis has regularly warned about China. Last year, he sounded the alarm shortly after a report showed Chinese real estate investors spent more than $6 billion in the US in a year - more than investors from any other foreign country. And sunny Florida appears to be their favorite - accounting for nearly a quarter of all similar purchases in the US. DeSantis is hardly a lone voice. In December, Democratic Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer cheered the Biden administration's move to block CCP-backed technology company, YMTC, from purchasing critical technology from U.S. businesses. 'The entanglements of these companies with the CCP and the Chinese military are too treacherous,' he declared. The question for American policymakers today is: How 'entangled' are we? LAND GRABS WITH 'CURIOUS NEIGHBORS' Major land purchases by Chinese entities now rarely pass off without controversy - particularly when there appears to be a military dimension. According to the US Department of Agriculture, Chinese ownership of American farmland has soared 20-fold in a decade from $81 million in 2010 to $1.8 billion in 2020. And several Chinese firms have in recent years bought or tried to buy large plots of land near US armed forces bases. In November 2021, the city of Grand Forks in North Dakota announced that Fufeng Group, headquartered in Shandong, China, wanted to build a corn mill there on a vast muddy stretch of land. The company had identified a 370-acre plot that just happened to be only 12 miles from Grand Forks Air Force Base, which in turn just happens to be home to some of America's key intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities. The base hosts the 319th Reconnaissance Wing which operates the RQ-4 Global Hawk, a high-altitude, remotely piloted surveillance plane, and will also house a crucial new space communications center. The information that flows through this facility form 'the backbone of all U.S. military communications across the globe,' according to South Dakota Congressman Dusty Johnson. A coincidence or something else? A letter sent to the Biden Administration by Johnson and 50 other Republicans warned of Fufeng Group's 'close links to the Chinese Communist Party.' In fact, the president of Fufeng, Li Xuechun, is allegedly an active member of the CCP. 'By law, Chinese businesses are required to bow to the demands of the Chinese Communist Party a regime that hates us and wants to overtake the United States at every opportunity,' said Senator Marco Rubio, Vice Chairman of the Select Committee on Intelligence, summing up these land purchase fears. 'We shouldn't treat this as a regular real estate deal.' On Tuesday, after more than a year of debate, the U.S. Air Force warned that the 'project presents a significant threat to national security.' On Tuesday, after more than a year of debate, the U.S. Air Force warned that the 'project presents a significant threat to national security.' In a sharp about-face, the mayor of Grand Forks said he'll do what he can to block construction. Just a few years ago, Mayor Brandon Bochenski was celebrating the investment. But times have changed. There have been other such moves and the fact that Chinese-owned companies get major financial backing from Beijing (which, say observers, rarely approves anything without an ulterior motive) has convinced analysts they're part of a strategy. In 2016, a Houston-based subsidiary of China's Xinjiang Guanghui Industry Investment Group paid an estimated $110 million for some 140,000 acres in Val Verde County, Texas. The company's owner, Chinese billionaire Sun Guangxin - another member of the Chinese Communist Party and former People's Liberation Army officer - said he wanted to build the Blue Hills Wind Farm on part of the land so he could have access to the state's electricity grid. Skeptics were struck that not only was there little wind in this part of the state but - as in Grand Forks, N.D. - about the only other thing of note in Val Verde was an important military base. Laughlin Air Force Base is the largest pilot training center in the US Air Force. In 2020, Texas congressman and former CIA officer Will Hurd, who has talked of the 'new Cold War against China', called on the federal government to halt the wind farm plan on national security grounds. The case prompted Texas lawmakers to pass a new law, the Lone Star Infrastructure Protection Act - which became law in 2021 - banning companies and other entities 'owned or controlled' by China, Russia, North Korea and Iran from making deals involving critical infrastructure in the state. Skeptics were struck that not only was there little wind in this part of the state but - as in Grand Forks, N.D. - about the only other thing of note in Val Verde was an important military base. Laughlin Air Force Base (above) is the largest pilot training center in the US Air Force. BEIJING'S INSIDIOUS INVOLVMENT One of the most elusive aspects of this Beijing-sponsored challenge to America is that it is cloaked in a veneer of legitimacy. But as lawmakers have observed, in Communist China all businesses answer to the state. That reality has cast suspicion over any Chinese infiltration of a critical American industry like food production. In California, Democrat legislators led a recent attempt to block foreign buyers from snapping up any more of its precious farmland. The state grows a third of America's vegetables, and two-thirds of all its fruit and nuts. The bill - which didn't specifically mention China although it was clearly the main target - was passed by the California legislature only to be blocked by California governor Gavin Newsom. Sen Melissa Hurtado (Dem), who introduced it, warned: 'Food can, and is, being used as a weapon like we are seeing in Ukraine.' The outcry over Chinese ownership of major US pork producer Smithfield is a case in point. The company, whose products can usually be found in any American supermarket, was bought in 2013 by the conglomerate WH Group, based in Hong Kong. It was the biggest ever takeover of a US company by a Chinese one and triggered a congressional hearing. The outcry over Chinese ownership of major US pork producer Smithfield is a case in point. In 2020, Texas congressman and former CIA officer Will Hurd, who has talked of the 'new Cold War against China', called on the federal government to halt the wind farm plan on national security grounds. (Above) Wind Farm file image Despite experts' warnings that the US might ultimately regret the $4.7 billion deal and it gave a Chinese too much control over America's pork industry, it was allowed to go through. When food supplies became a major headache during the pandemic, Smithfield - based in Virginia - was accused of ramping up its exports of meat to China to record levels at the expense of feeding Americans. In some parts of the US, the arrival of a Chinese company is enough to provoke horror even if its intentions appear entirely benign. Semcorp, a Shanghai-based tech company which the biggest producer of a key component of lithium-ion batteries, promised to invest $1 billion in a new factory that would create 1,200 jobs in Sidney, Ohio. The state has been hit particularly hard by job losses but local people who complained at it being a Chinese company won loud applause at a public meeting last spring to consider tax breaks for the company. 'They are not our friends,' said a resident. 'Think of your grandchildren and great-grandchildren when you have to explain you approved this to a company from China.' Despite the objections, the project is going ahead. CHINESE POLICE STATION IN THE BIG APPLE In a testament to the brazenness of the autocratic Beijing regime, even their police are now operating secretly in the US. Weeks ago, it emerged that the FBI is actively cracking down on a US-wide network of covert Chinese police stations. These very unofficial outposts - including one in Manhattan's Chinatown that was raided by the FBI last fall - are reportedly collecting intelligence, investigating crimes and generally keeping watch on Chinese abroad. In October, DailyMail.com visited this NYC office of the CCP, located above a ramen shop and next to an acupuncturist. Locals said the location was closed and rarely opened. The Chinese government promotes these locations as resources for Chinese nationals and say the program has 'persuaded' 230,000 Chinese citizens to return home since April 2021. But human rights organizations claim these stations are guided by a much more sinister purpose - an intimidation campaign. 'Nothing seems to be too impressive or too harsh,' Harth said. 'That's a clear message to anyone seeking to leave China, or already left China: that you're not safe anywhere.' These secret cop shops which reportedly also operate in 100 locations throughout Europe and in Japan - make no attempt to work with local law enforcement and have no diplomatic status. It is unclear who works at these facilities. In October, DailyMail.com visited this NYC office of the CCP, located above a ramen shop and next to an acupuncturist. Locals said the location was closed and rarely opened. But even Chinese state news media reporting has alluded to the true purposes of these offices, according to the New York Times. Articles have described the outposts as intelligence collection apparatus. Many of those reports have reportedly since been deleted. OMINOUS ONLINE CONCERN Finally, China is also accused of threatening US national security in the digital world. Bipartisan concern has focused on TikTok, the wildly popular social media platform that is used relentlessly by more than two-thirds of US teenagers. Brendan Carr, the senior Republican on the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), has led the charge against TikTok. He welcomed Congress last month approving a bill to ban the social media app it from devices issued to federal employees. Half of all states already banned it from their government devices and a bipartisan bill was introduced in Congress last month to scrub it completely in the U.S. Mr Carr told DailyMail.com that TikTok was a 'very significant threat' to the US. Despite initials denials, TikTok has been found to have used the app to spy on US reporters writing about the platform and allowed the Beijing regime's propaganda arm to covertly criticize US politicians ahead of last year's midterm elections. Mr Carr also noted that China has set out to dominate the world in artificial intelligence. 'And whenever we use TikTok, we're improving China's AI,' he said. 'That could be used for very malign purposes down the road.' 'There's plenty of reasons to be concerned on TikTok on the national security front which is why we've seen bipartisan consensus,' he said. Chinese penetration of the US both physical and cyber is diverse and growing. While some of the holdings of Chinese companies in America are undoubtedly innocent, the fact that Beijing puppet-masters may be pulling the strings is a glaring cause for concern. Right now, Republicans and Democrats in Washington, DC, seem to be aware of the national security threat posed the question is whether the country can counter it. Advertisement A mix of delta blues and bluegrass music blares from the speakers of the House of the Lord Jesus, hidden deep in the Appalachian Mountains. It is almost loud enough to drown out the sound of rattlesnakes lying in their tanks. For the church, run by the Wolford family, is the last remaining serpent-handling church in West Virginia where preachers are known for playing with venomous snakes, drinking poison and holding bottles of fire. Their practices date back to the early 1900s and are based on the belief that anybody who truly has the Holy Spirit within them should be able to ingest poison without suffering and survive any number of venomous bites. Such rituals have killed many and injured even more. Here in a stomach-churning photo exhibition, Gloryland, the unique services of the House of the Lord Jesus are captured on camera by photographer Robert LeBlanc. GLORYLAND, an exhibition at the Fahey/Klein Gallery offers an 'intimate perspective' into the last remaining Sign Following Pentecostal serpent-handling church in West Virginia. The church, run by the Wolford family, sees preachers handle snakes, ingest poison and handle fire in unusual services. Their rituals are based on the bible passage Mark 16: 17 which reads: 'In my name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues. They shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover.' The House of the Lord Jesus is one of the few churches still practises serpent handling in the 21st Century. These rituals have been mired in controversy as they have been responsible for so many deaths. In 2014 Kentucky pastor Jamie Coots died after being bitten by a serpent he handled in mass. And in 1991 preacher Glen Summerford, 76, was imprisoned after he attempted to murder his unfaithful wife by forcng her to stick her hand in his cage of rattlesnakes. A church member, Robert 'Bobbie' Ayers, is pictured after being bitten by a rattlesnake. The image forms part of the GLORYLAND exhibition which has been made in collaboration with NFT marketplace Super Rare and art-streaming platform Niio In a foreword to the book of pictures, Ralph W Hood writes: 'This is a sympathetic insight into a tradition more maligned than understood. This is their story and a view of a faith that many believe is fated to be abandoned.' A female churchgoer is pictured holding a bottle of fire to her chin while Pastor Chris Wolford holds a rattlesnake in the background. The images were captured by Robert LeBlanc whose work is marked by uncommon intensity and immediacy. Chris Wolford reads a bible passage in a mountain in Cucumber, West Virginia Elijah, pictured, is the nephew of Pastor Chris Wolford here. In a HBO documentary Alabama Snake, one officer said of the practice prevalent in the Appalachian Mountains: 'I think people that live up on the mountain tend to take care of their own problems, they don't need or want the policing that you would find here in Scottsboro,' explained a uniformed officer.' Photographer Robert LeBlanc writes that the sound of rattlesnakes 'fills the air' in the church while the sound of 'delta blues' and 'bluegrass' music A female churchgoer is pictured holding a bottle of fire to her chin in the exhibition which is on-show at the Fahey/Klein Gallery in Los Angeles from January 24 to 28. An NFT iteration is also available on Super Rare. The daughter of a British pensioner accused of murdering his terminally-ill wife in Cyprus has relived the disturbing moment she was told by police that her mother was dead and that her father was threatening to kill himself to join her. Lesley Hunter told how police officers desperate to prevent a second death then asked her to plead with her father directly over the phone to stop him taking his own life. Lesley was at home in Norfolk when the police called with the shocking news about her parents who had retired to the Mediterranean island. Lesley recalls: 'The police officers were saying, "We need an address for your parents. We need to get a negotiator to your dad." 'I was thinking, "Negotiator? Has my dad taken somebody hostage? What's going on?" Then my phone goes, and it's my uncle. Lesley Hunter (pictured) told how police officers desperate to prevent a second death then asked her to plead with her father directly over the phone to stop him taking his own life Lesley was at home in Norfolk when the police called with the shocking news about her parents who had retired to the Mediterranean island. Pictured: Her father, David Hunter, 75, and her mother Janice, 74 'He says to me, "Lesley, your dad has killed your mum to end her suffering and now he's trying to kill himself. We need to get to him Interpol are looking for him." At this point she broke down, sobbing and screaming, 'No, no, no.' The drama unfolded on December 18, 2021 - and was relived this week in a courtroom in Greece where her father, David Hunter, 75, is on trial for murdering her mother Janice, 74. David claims - and Lesley completely supports him in this - that the killing was one of mercy as Janice had blood cancer and was suffering. This week footage from a harrowing video call Leslie then made to her father David to 'stay with me' moments after he had suffocated his partner was played in court. It showed Hunter slumped in his chair and unresponsive to his daughter desperately telling him: 'You can't leave me'. Despite Lesley's hysterical cries from her Norwich home 2,500 miles away her beloved father said nothing before the phone was disconnected after two minutes. 'It was awful,' the mother-of-one, 50, told the Mail, after her haunting pleas for her father not to kill himself were played to the Cypriot court. 'I thought he was dying. It didn't look like my dad - there was no light in his eyes. He looked like he was slipping away. 'I had just found out I had lost my mum, and now I thought I was about to lose my dad too.' Lesley was at home in Norfolk when the police called with the shocking news about her parents who had retired to the Mediterranean island The drama unfolded on December 18, 2021 - and was relived this week in a courtroom in Greece She returned home to find two police cars and four officers waiting, who demanded an address for her parents but wouldn't say why. Unbeknown to her, after suffocating his wife of 56 years Hunter had called his brother, William, to admit to the killing and to say he was about to take a drugs and alcohol overdose. William had phoned the police who alerted Interpol to try and talk him down from suicide. Lesley recalls: 'The police officers were saying, "We need an address for your parents. We need to get a negotiator to your dad." 'I was thinking, "Negotiator? Has my dad taken somebody hostage? What's going on?" Then my phone goes, and it's my uncle. 'He says to me, "Lesley, your dad has killed your mum to end her suffering and now he's trying to kill himself. We need to get to him Interpol are looking for him." At this point she broke down, sobbing and screaming, 'No, no, no.' Though she had known her mother had been suffering from incurable leukaemia for five years, she had no idea how much her parents had hidden from her. It would later transpire that Janice begged her beloved husband for weeks to end her life. She had been robbed of her dignity, forced to wear homemade nappies for her continual diarrhoea, her hands and face scarred from skin lesions, and relying on her husband to carry her into the shower to wash her. After long ignoring her calls to end it, Hunter finally succumbed and smothered her face and nose with his hands before taking a drugs overdose to join her. David claims - and Lesley completely supports him in this - that the killing was one of mercy as Janice had blood cancer and was suffering Once Lesley was alerted the police officers suggested she try and video call her father and record it. She tried three times without success, but on the fourth go he picked up. She is seen on the recording screaming to her father: 'Daddy, remember how you walked me down the aisle and you said I was beautiful. I'm your girl. I'm your girl. 'You can't leave me. Daddy please, please daddy I beg you.' Lesley said: 'I just thought if I could get through to him, I thought if I could jolt him back into the moment, I don't know 'I think I was just trying to save him, and I honestly thought he was dying. But I could see he just didn't register it was me. He picked up the call, but he was dead behind the eyes. 'I knew he hadn't recognised me or registered I was there, and I was desperately trying to make that connection.' Hunter signed five statements in the 72 hours after the killing despite not having been offered a lawyer nor been subject to a physiological assessment. His lawyers say the documents which were written by Cypriot detectives on his behalf - should therefore be ruled as inadmissible. They played the video to demonstrate how the retired Northumberland miner was 'in a state of shock' and therefore could not have been cogent enough to make such statements. Addressing the prosecution's use of the statements, Lesley said: 'It's ludicrous. There is no way he was in a fit state to give court statements. This week footage from a harrowing video call Leslie then made to her father David to 'stay with me' moments after he had suffocated his partner was played in court 'This sounds big-headed, but he loves me so much, I know he does - I was his little princess growing up. 'Like I say in the video, I'm his girl, and my dad, if he was in his right mind and he saw me crying in the way I was, he would be wanting to comfort me. 'The fact he didn't recognise his daughter of 49 years shows to me there was absolutely no way he could have given a lucid, cogent, rational statement to the police, even verbally.' After going to bed that night believing she had lost both her parents, she discovered the following afternoon that her father had pulled through in hospital. But pouring more doubt on the admissibility of his statements, she said he did not become in any way 'lucid' for another five days. Lesley first spoke to him two days after the killing. 'He was out of it,' she said. 'The doctor did warn me. 'He was just crying - he didn't really speak. He was just crying and saying, "I can see your mum, your mum's here. I don't know why I'm not with you mum." 'He kept saying, "She sits on my bed, she's by the bed I can see her." It was like he was in the middle of a psychotic episode or something. I'm no expert, but he was very, very unwell. 'He was not a man who would be in any fit state at all to give a statement that should be used in a court of law.' For Lesley, the case has concerning similarities with that of the British teenager who was convicted with 'public mischief' after accusing 12 Israeli tourists of gang raping her in Ayia Napa, Cyprus. It showed Hunter, 75, slumped in his chair and unresponsive to his daughter desperately telling him: 'You can't leave me' Her conviction was later overturned after it was argued she had been forced into making misleading statements by the Cypriot police. 'There are very stark, very depressing similarities with the case,' Lesley said. 'It also feels like they are trying to wear us down.' Last week was the first time Hunter gave evidence after languishing in a prison cell for over 12 months. It had appeared the defence and prosecution were going to reach a plea bargain that would see him freed last month. But two days after the anniversary of Janice's death and a week before Christmas it was suddenly dropped and instead a charge of pre-meditated murder was re-introduced. If found guilty, it would see him jailed for life. 'The timing was just awful,' said Lesley. 'It seemed almost calculatedly cruel. I think sometimes people forget that I'm not just David's daughter, I'm also Janice's daughter. 'I'm not just a daughter who's fighting for her dad, I'm a daughter who's lost her mum. 'So, you know, I'm dealing with a lot of grief here, and to have dropped that on me when they did - it was cruel.' The case has been beset by delays which have emptied all of the money crowdfunded to support Hunter's case last year. 'It feels, it genuinely feels like they're trying to wear us all down,' Lesley said. 'They've decimated our fund. 'Every time we have a court date, we have to fly our barrister out there. We're paying for his travel, his time, his expertise, and it's gone through all of the money that was very kindly raised for us.' The pensioner, who has to pay for his food in Cypriot jail, has also had his UK pension cut from the moment he was arrested. After selling his home to pay for Janice's medical bills, and emptying the remainder of his savings to help pay for the legal bills, he is left with nothing. 'I know he's trying not to worry me, but I know he's worried,' said Lesley. 'If by some miracle he was released, he's got to think he's destitute.' But despite all she's been through, Lesley remains determined to fight on. She said: 'It's hard not to think that might be a deliberate strategy to wear us down. But I need to make it very, very clear to them that that won't stop us fighting them. 'If they are thinking that's going to be like a sneaky little tactic that's going to win, I give them fair warning - it won't.' TO DONATE, go to https://www.crowdjustice.com/case/help-bring-david-home/ Florida lawmakers are to meet next week as they decide on whether Disney World's self-governing power should be replaced with a state-run board under radical plans backed by Governor Ron DeSantis. The session will focus on whether to reverse the previous decision to dissolve the district and Disney's special governing privileges, which it has held for 55 years. The overhaul - part of an ongoing row between Disney and state officials which began over the 'Don't Say Gay' bill - would also force the company to pay $700 million dollars in unsecured debt that might otherwise have been paid by taxpayers. It is not clear how a state-directed oversight board might work and what kind of financial control it would have over the Disney-run operation. Florida lawmakers will hold a special session to debate a proposal regarding Walt Disney World's special taxing district next week. Last year, Goveneror Ron DeSantis launched an overhaul of Disney's self-governing status within Reedy Creek after the company's former CEO publicly criticized Florida's 'Don't Say Gay' Bill Since 1967, Disney has been responsible for the governance of an area known as Reedy Creek, which is partly within Orange and Osceola counties. The new bill would put a state-run board in charge of governance The plan to install a state-run board could force Disney to pay the debt, it's claimed. Since 1967, Disney has been responsible for the governance of an area known as Reedy Creek, which is partly within Orange and Osceola counties. Critics say the arrangement gives the firm special legal and tax privileges. The Walt Disney World Resort has the ability to tax itself at a higher rate than allowed by local authorities. DeSantis launched an effort to upend Disney's self-governing powers after the company's former CEO, Bob Chapek, condemned Florida's Rights in Education Bill, termed the Don't Say Gay bill, which limits teaching about sex and gender identity in the state's classrooms. On Thursday DeSantis said lawmakers were convening to 'make sure that Disney doesn't have self-governing status anymore' however he has not explained how the state would handle Disneys almost $1 billion in bond debt, which will leave the resident of Orange and Osceola liable if Disneys ability to tax itself remains removed from law. The meeting will also address various issues, including problems with state laws related to migrants, college athletes, election fraud, hurricane recovery, and local water control districts, according to memos from Senate President Kathleen Passidomo and House Speaker Paul Renner seen by the Miami Herald. The controversy began last spring when Disney opposed the Parental Rights in Education legislation and the governor responded by including the dissolving of Disney's special taxing district in a special session on redistricting. The Reedy Creek district is governed by its 19 landowners, the biggest of them being Disney World. Disney's status as majority landowner means it choose members of the district board In April 2022, DeSantis wrote into law the plan to dissolve the Reedy Creek Improvement District, setting the wheels in motion to eliminate its special status. His former chief of staff said the governor was 'doing exactly what he said he would', adding: 'Disney can no longer have its own government and own taxing authority, and Disney not taxpayers will have to be responsible for any financial consequences.' The author of Florida's controversial Don't Say Gay bill told DailyMail.com in December that the state will not back down in its fight against Disney. Florida State Rep. Randy Fine also said that for the media behemoth to repair its relationship with Florida, the studio must stop producing woke movies. His comments come after a report in the Financial Times which said that Florida lawmakers were considering allowing Disney to continue with its self-governing district in the Orlando area following the return of former CEO Bob Iger. DeSantis allies said the development was the governor 'doing exactly what he said he would' after he wrote into law the plan to dissolve the Reedy Creek Improvement District in April 2022 Gov. Ron DeSantis' office insisted at the time: 'Governor DeSantis does not make U-turns.' The Reedy Creek district is governed by its 19 landowners, the biggest of them being Disney World. It is responsible for overseeing land use and providing essential public services, including fire protection, emergency medical services, water services, electricity, sanitation. The district also operates and maintains all public roads and bridges. Disney CEO Bob Iger made a shocking return to the role in November after it was reported the board received multiple complaints about Chapek. Chapek was reportedly chided for Disney's muddled reaction to the Don't Say Gay bill. The company initially didn't comment on the bill but under pressure, Chapek eventually condemned it. A lawyer for Rust armorer Hannah Gutierrez-Reed claims she was 'stretched too thin' on the set of the low-budget Western film, and she did not check the gun and was not given a heads-up before Alec Baldwin was handed the gun that killed Halyna Hutchins. Baldwin and Gutierrez-Reed were formally charged this week with involuntary manslaughter over Hutchins' death in New Mexico at Bonanza Creek in October 2021. Gutierrez-Reed's lawyer, Jason Bowles, told TMZ his client was 'stretched too thin' and had asked for more time to focus on her armorer duties, but was 'denied' it and never called back into the church by the assistant director David Halls to properly instruct Baldwin on how to handle the weapon. 'Hannah was not called back into that church. She asked David Halls specifically: "If Baldwin is going to use that gun, then call me back into that church, so I can instruct him on the usage of the gun, I can reinspect that gun, and I can tell him where to point it, and work with him on it." 'She was never called back in,' Bowles lamented. 'So when the [District Attorney] talks about the armorer's responsibility, this and that, she wanted to do her job, but she was prevented from doing her job. That's the big distinction.' Hannah Gutierrez-Reed's lawyer, Jason Bowles, said his client was 'stretched too thin' and had asked for more time to focus on her armorer duties, but was 'denied' it and never called back into the church to properly instruct Baldwin on how to handle the weapon Bowles also informed TMZ that Gutierrez-Reed had asked Halls to use a 'plastic gun' and was told no, they wanted a 'real gun.' 'So Halls took the gun, said he would [call her back in], [and] never called her back in,' Bowles said. 'Halls had the real gun. The idea that he's saying he didn't have it, he didn't hand it Baldwin, [is] completely false.' Gutierrez-Reed also went to Gabrielle Pickle, her boss, and asked for more time to do her job, as it was a 'gun-heavy set,' Bowles said. 'They denied her that,' he said. 'They said: "No, we get a certain amount of days for armor duties and that's it," because this was a lower budget production and that's how they were going to run it.' The lawyer also reiterated that that Hutchins' death was a 'tragic accident' and cited the decades of movie making where no one was killed due to a gun on set as proof. 'In a 100 years of movies, this has not happened. I think nobody could foresee that live round. It's a tragic accident.' He went on to say that brunt weight of the accident falls on 'production' and Halls for 'not calling Hannah back in.' Halls is himself expected to testify against Baldwin and Gutierrez-Reed. She had asked David Halls to called her back into the church if Baldwin (pictured today) was going to fire that gun in the scene, but she never was, her lawyer said Baldwin and Gutierrez-Reed were formally charged with involuntary manslaughter this week In addition, prosecutors claimed Baldwin was 'distracted' during firearm training and shortly after the incident admitted to officers he had fired the weapon - something he would later vehemently deny. Mary Carmack-Altwies, the Santa Fe district attorney, reported that the Oscar-nominated actor and producer of the film was not present for firearms training prior to the start of filming - and when an hour-long training session was scheduled, he appeared uninterested and was on his cell phone. Her team found 'reckless deviation from known standards and practice and protocol', noting that Hutchins was killed during an unscheduled rehearsal, during which the standard two safety checks were not carried out, and for which a plastic gun should have been used. 'Today [Wednesday], we have taken another important step in securing justice for Halyna Hutchins,' said Carmack-Altwies in a statement. 'In New Mexico, no one is above the law and justice will be served.' Baldwin has vowed to fight the charges. He has stated repeatedly he never pulled the trigger, and said it was a tragic accident - emphasizing that he relied on the firearms experts hired to be on set. If convicted, he faces up to five years in prison. Halyna Hutchins (pictured) died on the set of Rust in October after Baldwin allegedly fired the gun in a scene Among the papers filed on Tuesday is a ten-page probable cause affidavit - divided into two sections. One notes Baldwin's actions as the lead actor, and another explores his role as the film's primary producer. Prosecutors note that Baldwin was absent from an initial firearms training session. Gutierrez-Reed set up an hour-long subsequent session for Baldwin, but they only completed 30 minutes. 'According to Reed, Baldwin was distracted and talking on his cell phone to his family during the training,' the prosecutors stated. The affidavit claims Baldwin gave 'inconsistent accounts' about how the shooting happened - first telling police he 'fired' the gun, then insisting he did not pull the trigger. Prosecutors state that 'photos and videos clearly show Baldwin, multiple times, with his finger inside the trigger guard and on the trigger.' They add: 'Baldwin approached responding deputies on the day of the shooting, wanting to talk to them because he was the one who 'fired' the gun.' They state: 'Photo and video evidence from inside the church on the day of the shooting show some of the rehearsal up to and including moments before the shooting. Bowles also said that Gutierrez-Reed had asked Halls to use a 'plastic gun' and was told no, they wanted a 'real gun' The lawyer also reiterated that that Hutchins' death was a 'tragic accident' and cited the decades of movie making where no one was killed due to a gun on set as proof 'The photos and videos clearly show Baldwin multiple times with his finger inside of the trigger guard and on the trigger, while manipulating the hammer and while drawing, pointing and holstering the revolver. 'Baldwin knew the first rule of gun safety is to never point a gun at someone you don't intend on shooting,' the document continues. Baldwin claimed in interviews after the shooting that he did not pull the trigger. He believes the fault lies with the armorer, who he says should have checked the gun was safe before it was handed to him. Yet the probable cause statement against Baldwin referred to the FBI's previous analysis of the firearm, which 'clearly showed that the weapon could not 'accidentally fire.' The document also said Baldwin failed to demand 'at least two (2) safety checks between the armorer and himself' prior to the shooting. Prosecutors said: 'If Baldwin had not pointed the gun at Hutchins and Souza, this tragedy would not have occurred. 'This reckless deviation from known standards and practice and protocol directly caused the fatal shooting.' Baldwin's attorney said the decision to charge his client was deeply misguided. A 24-year-old Texas man arrested for stealing two tamarin monkeys from Dallas Zoo now faces further charges in connection to a clouded leopard escaping its enclosure after its fence was cut. Davion Dwight Irvin was taken into custody near Dallas Aquarium on Thursday and charged with animal cruelty. He was booked into Dallas County Jail and his bond has been set at $25,000. His arrest comes a day after police issued a surveillance photograph of him, holding a bag of Doritos, while creeping around the zoo apparently eyeing up animal enclosures. On Wednesday, officers found the monkeys inside an empty home belonging to a church that was also filled with cats, birds and other small animals. Staff at Dallas Zoo said Irvin had asked them obscure questions, including how to care for tamarin monkeys - and in a separate incident asked for directions to the clouded leopard's enclosure, according to an arrest affidavit obtained by The Dallas Morning News. The first of the bizarre incidents occurred on January 13, when a clouded leopard named Nova (pictured) suddenly went missing from its enclosure. The cat was found safe hours later Officers found the monkeys inside an empty church (pictured) that was also filled with cats, birds and other small animals Meanwhile Irvin was shown in eerie security footage creeping around the zoo apparently eyeing up animal enclosures Dallas Zoo - the largest in Texas - has been plagued by a series of criminal incidents. The first of the bizarre incidents occurred on January 13, when a clouded leopard named Nova suddenly went missing from its enclosure. Irvin was booked into the Dallas County Jail but it is unclear at this time if he has bonded out The event sparked a day-long search for the 25-pound feline, which was eventually tracked down by cops a few hours later just off the zoo property. It was subsequently returned to its enclosure safe and sound. Forced to close down during the search for the cat, the zoo resumed operations as normal the next day - until it was discovered that a second habitat - one housed a breed of monkey known as langurs - had also been cut into. Fortunately, the hole was discovered before any of the animals could escape. A police report later alleged the incidents were both a result of 'criminal mischief' spurring zoo staffers to implement a series of added security measures including the installation of additional cameras and increased security patrols at night. A week later, a 35-year-old endangered vulture was found dead inside its habitat, causing the zoo to again go to the local police department, this time asking for help in its own investigation - which found that the vulture's cause of death was from a wound. It was soon discerned the vulture's death was likely the result of foul play, with officials deeming it 'suspicious.' And on Monday, the two monkey, Bella and Finn, were missing from their enclosure, which had been 'intentionally compromised'. A detective was told in the days leading up to the last incident, Irvin asked questions about animals at the zoo, including the monkeys and the 'status and location' of the clouded leopard, The Dallas Morning News reported. He allegedly also asked how to care for tamarin monkeys, and was seen entering nonpublic areas around the monkeys enclosure, and looked into windows that were not accessible to the public, the affidavit says. The exotic monkeys were found on Tuesday by officials inside a church closet in Lancaster, approximately 15 miles away from the Dallas Zoo. The animals were unharmed though temperatures inside the building were only 37 degrees, officials said. Police were tipped off when the church pastor told them that Irvin may be the same person who has been breaking into their church. When officials went to the empty church to investigate the burglaries they had found a slew of other animals inside including, cats and birds. Sources told WFAA they are looking into the possibility that Irvin is connected to all the incidents that took place at the Dallas Zoo in the prior weeks. The church pastor's daughter, Tonya Thomas said members from the church had recognized Irvin attending services at the church. She told the authorities about a series of break-ins happening at the church that they were renovating into a community center. Police were tipped off when the church pastor told them that Irvin may be the same person who has been breaking into their church Video surveillance of the 24-year-old suspect, Davion Dwight Irvin Zoo officials would not provide any further details regarding the vulture's death, refusing to do so until police progress further with their investigation. Cops are pictured at the zoo - located just a six hours' drive from Broussard - last month On January 21, a 35-year-old endangered vulture named Pin was found dead, with the zoo issuing a statement saying that its death did not appear to be 'natural' Meanwhile yesterday it emerged a dozen monkeys had been stolen in a zoo burglary in Louisiana. The primates were taken from their enclosure at Zoosiana on Saturday, staffers at the Broussard zoo revealed in a statement, adding that the incident occurred moments before midnight. In total, 12 squirrel monkeys were taken, the zoo said - with officials claiming an unidentified perpetrator targeted other small monkeys during the break-in as well, before only taking the aforementioned animals. Zoosiana, a six hours' drive from Dallas, offered its first statement on their break-in on Monday, revealing on Facebook that the 'facility was broken into shortly before midnight on Saturday, January 28th.' It continued: 'The individual targeted facilities of smaller primates and specifically compromised the Squirrel Monkey exhibit. The individual was unfortunately successful in stealing 12 squirrel monkeys. 'The remaining squirrel monkeys have been carefully assessed by both the Zoosiana veterinarian and animal care team, and there are no other apparent issues affecting their health or well being,' it added. 'All other animals are accounted for and appear to have been undisturbed.' Zoo officials did not specify how many squirrel monkeys had initially been in the enclosure, but said that are working with local, state, and federal agencies to try to locate the missing monkeys. A dozen monkeys have been stolen in a zoo burglary in Louisiana - the latest in a string of animal thefts across multiple states The pint-sized primates - known for their expressive faces and inquisitive personalities - were taken from their enclosure at Zoosiana Saturday, staffers at the Broussard zoo said Monday A New York Times columnist has labeled the Last of Us as a conservative show after its latest episode featured a private paradise created by a doomsday prepper. The HBO series' third episode, which fans hailed as one of the greatest television episodes ever, stars Nick Offerman as a prepper named Bill, who sets up a fenced-community for himself to survive the zombie apocalypse in comfort. While the episode earned acclaim for its portrayal of a gay couple, journalist Michelle Goldberg claimed the episode 'tricked sentimental liberals into rooting for a resource-hoarding gun nut defying evil pandemic authorities.' Goldberg added: 'If they weren't queer, I suspect it would be obvious that this is an upscale suburban version of a right-wing fantasy.' New York Times columnist Michelle Goldberg claimed episode three of the Last of Us was conservative and 'tricked sentimental liberals into rooting for a resource-hoarding gun nut defying evil pandemic authorities' The episode starred Nick Offerman as a gun toting doomsday prepper whose distrust of the government allowed him to escape death and have everything he needs in the apocalypse The setting features the fenced community Offerman's character, Bill, created to protect his resources and fight off invaders The New York Times columnist claims the hit HBO show celebrates Bill's 'deeply conservative' story, which begins with the doomsday prepper avoiding military officials rounding up citizens for quarantine. Bill's distrust is proven right as viewers were shown earlier in the episode that his neighbors were ultimately killed by the military because there was no more room in the quarantine communities. What follows is a montage of Bill setting up his private paradise filled with hot showers, red wine and farm-to-table cuisine, while the rest of the world plummets in the zombie apocalypse. Goldberg said it realizes the fantasy of preppers, people who hoard resources and weapons in secret bunkers in case of world-ending emergencies. Goldberg also claims the show brings to life 'some right-wingers dream of building fortresses against invading mobs.' In the episode, Bill's defense system is able to kill and ward off invaders going after his resources. Goldberg claimed Bill's community was an 'upscale suburban version of a right-wing fantasy' She also claimed it brings to life 'some right-wingers dream of building fortresses against invading mobs.' Pictured: Bill fighting off raiders who set off his security system While Goldberg branded the show conservative, some on the right claimed the show went 'woke' after it deviated from its video game source to put the focus of the episode on Bill's homosexual relationship with Frank, played by Murray Barlett. Goldberg, however, said that the criticism over the gay relationship blinded those on the right from seeing their alleged values on screen. 'I naively thought that some conservatives, who frequently complain about not seeing their values represented in pop culture, might thrill to the episode,' she wrote. '[It's] a story about a strong man whose suspicion of the government, facility with weapons and practical skills allow him to defend the one he loves, building a domestic idyll safe from the ravening hordes. 'And its one embedded in a show in which the governments pandemic response leads to an incompetent but brutal brand of fascism.' Goldberg added that while some on the right slammed the show for its depiction of a gay couple, they missed that the show was allegedly pandering to them But fans of the show have dubbed it among the best episodes in television history and praised its presentation of two men falling in love while the world ends around them Despite the criticism levied against it, episode three stands as a favorite among fans who were enthralled by the romance that blossomed between Bill and Frank. Viewers took to social media to praise the show for depicting a gay romance through a positive lens, with one writing: 'The last of us created one of the most beautiful depictions of love and devotion and growing old together i cant stop thinking about it it was perfection.' Another wrote: 'I have never felt more shock and unpreparedness than going into the last of us episode 3 thinking I'm about to see some spooky mushroom zombies and father pedro and instead witnessing the most reverently romantic representation of gay love I have ever seen. Hush director Mike Flanagan penned: 'Tonights episode of #TheLastOfUsHBO is one of the best episodes of television Ive ever seen.' Another typed: 'The Last of Us episode 3 will probably go down in history as one of the greatest episodes of television ever made. Holy s**t.' Australia's summer weather continues to throw up extremes with perfect beach weather in Sydney contrasting with a wintry blast in Victoria and extreme humidity and heavy storms in Queensland. Sydneysiders flocked to beaches on Saturday as the hot weather continued with a maximum of 29C and perfect sunny conditions. Similar conditions are forecast for the city on Sunday with a southerly dropping the temp by a couple of degrees. Queenslanders, meanwhile, sweated through another oppressive night with intense humidity ahead of a southerly change on Sunday that is expected to moderate the heatwave. The national contrast was captured by temperatures of just the 15C in Melbourne and Hobart on Saturday morning, compared with nearly 31C in Brisbane. Sydneysiders flocked to beaches on Saturday as the hot weather continued with a maximum of 29C and perfect sunny conditions (pictured, beachgoer at Bondi Beach) Similar conditions are forecast for Sydney on Sunday with a southerly dropping the temp by a couple of degrees. The national weather contrast was captured by temperatures of just the 15C in Melbourne and Hobart on Saturday morning, compared with nearly 31C in Brisbane and mid-20s in Sydney (pictured, beachgoers at Bondi Beach on Saturday morning) In Victoria snow flurries fell in the Alpine towns of Mount Hotham, Mount Buller and Falls Creek after the temperature dropped to 2C on Friday. Meanwhile, a mini-cyclone hit the NSW mid-north coast town of Port Macquarie on Friday, with heavy winds, rain and hail hitting the town at around 3pm and leaving 11,000 people without power. Residents reported debris flying 'everywhere' as a metal roof was ripped from its supports and flung into the street alongside uprooted trees. The wild weather started as a small hail storm and quickly ramped up as heavy winds blew around town, shaking office buildings and moving boats docked in the port. Fire and Rescue NSW said in a statement the gusts of wind ripped the roof off an apartment block in Hastings River Drive, one of the main roads into town. They also state that two gum trees were split apart and fell onto a car, while another tree was thrown through powerlines in the town's CBD. Heavy winds, rain and hail hit the NSW mid-north coast town of Port Macquarie on Friday afternoon ripping apart small businesses (pictured) and leaving 11,000 without power Port Macquarie residents reported debris flying 'everywhere' as a metal roof was ripped from its supports and flung into the street alongside uprooted trees. 'It was definitely the scariest weather event that I've ever been in,' Port Jet Cruises deckhand, Luke Barry, told the ABC. 'I felt the office shaking around and I was very afraid that it was going to start blowing away.' The State Emergency Service received more than 60 calls for help during the intense weather and have had no injuries reported. Wildly different weather systems are expected to hit the nation with expected 24C differences in maximum temperatures between inland WA and the mid to lower east-coast Meanwhile there's an enhanced risk of tropical cyclone development off Australia's north west coast in the week. Some models even suggest that there could be multiple tropical cyclones in the region by the middle of the week, however it is too early to know if they will reach the coastline. Areas of Queensland are expecting to receive over 100mm of rain early next week. Parts of the Northern Territory and New South Wales are also expected to receive some wet weather later in the week. While cooler temperatures persist in the country's south-east, parts of Western and South Australia could see 44C days in the week ahead as a mass of heat collects over the continent's interior. Heavy rain is expected to hit most areas in Queensland early next week and then spread to parts of the Northern Territory and New South Wales (stock image) Often they are hailed as heroes our brave emergency frontliners willing to risk life and limb to protect the public. Seen as fearless, they run towards danger with just one aim: to rescue victims and save lives. In tragic outcomes, they are the ones who deal with the traumatic aftermath. That may be the enduring public image of Britains firefighters, but this week it was dealt a devastating blow. Amid allegations that some firefighters at Dorset and Wiltshire Fire Service had, on more than one occasion, photographed female car crash victims, police have now launched an investigation. The pictures, it is claimed, were shared on an informal WhatsApp group, along with degrading comments about the deceased victims. Allegations have emerged that some firefighters at Dorset and Wiltshire Fire Service had, on more than one occasion, photographed female car crash victims (file image) The alleged harassment includes reports of female firefighters being sent explicit, unsolicited photographs and messages (file image) One anonymous female firefighter told an ITV News investigation this week how colleagues would make comments about the type of underwear the women [wore] in the car crash. She said: Retrieving the body of someone dead should tear you apart, not make you want to take photos of it, just to joke about it later. Because thats someones loved one, isnt it? Thats someones relative. Dorset and Wiltshire Fire Service has now commissioned an independent review into what it calls deeply concerning allegations of criminal behaviour, which it has referred to the police, and further claims of sexual harassment. The alleged harassment includes reports of female firefighters being sent explicit, unsolicited photographs and messages by male colleagues. In a statement this week, a spokesperson for Dorset and Wiltshire Fire Service said: We are shocked and appalled to hear these allegations. There is an expectation for our staff to work in line with our code of ethics, which sets out high levels of expected behaviours. But the accusations of sexism and misogyny are by no means confined to Dorset and Wiltshire. In fact, its thought to be so widespread that the former Chief Crown Prosecutor for the North-West, Nazir Afzal OBE, has told the Mail: This isnt a London problem its a nationwide problem, and I think what we are seeing now is the Fire Services #MeToo moment. The allegations from Dorset and Wiltshire come just two months after Mr Afzals damning report on the London Fire Brigade (LFB), which found a toxic culture of misogyny and racism in the service. Now, he reveals how he has been inundated with messages from female firefighters from all over the country making similar allegations. Ive received dozens and dozens of emails and messages from firefighters, invariably women, saying: We are suffering, too, he told the Mail. There is no fire service in the UK where women feel safe. Its that bad, and its not confined to the capital. They are sharing equally awful experiences of abuse and misogyny. Speaking exclusively to the Mail, one of those female firefighters from central England described a catalogue of disturbing incidents which she said had plagued her career of more than 20 years. She claimed that as a young probationary recruit, a male trainee had cornered her alone, put his hands around her throat, and threatened: I can do to you whatever I like. Following a number of high-profile cases involving police forces across the country, members of the fire service are now under scrutiny Later in her career, at one station, she allegedly found a dead animal in her locker and what looked like semen on her bedding. Another time she claims she was locked in a lift and left there as a joke. Another time, she alleges, a male colleague borrowed her phone, on some pretext, found an intimate photograph of her and uploaded it to her social media, leaving her feeling upset and humiliated when friends, family and colleagues saw it. Most disturbingly, she claims she was called into the office after a firefighter took over her breathing apparatus set, to be told the contents had been extremely low. She claims she and her manager believed it may have been deliberately tampered with, as shed had a few issues on the previous watch. She alleges the manager said he would investigate only if it happened again. Tampering with equipment is, as she says, potentially life-threatening for her and the public. There are a handful of male firefighters who I believe genuinely hate women and dont want them in the service, she says. Former Chief Crown Prosecutor for the North-West, Nazir Afzal OBE, is calling for a Government-backed independent telephone hotline for female firefighters They do not believe women can do the job and they try to force us out. If you complain to management, the people responsible are spoken to quietly, then the abuse gets worse because you are seen as a snitch. So most people just keep quiet and it all gets swept under the carpet. If there are no repercussions for bad behaviour, the culture will not change. Many of my male colleagues have been great to work with, very supportive, but there are a few who are just toxic. Ive been left feeling paranoid and in tears, and at points in my career Ive wanted to leave. But I refuse to quit because I love my job. I will not be forced out. I went into the fire service to protect the public, but the public have a right to know what working in the fire service can be like. Mr Afzal says accounts such as these come as no surprise to him: One woman told me: There is a FIFO culture in the Fire Service which meant Fit in or F*** off. Women are routinely told they are expected to conform or leave. South Wales Fire Service, it was reported last month, is also facing an independent review into abusive behaviour by some firefighters (file image) The informal WhatsApp groups we heard of in Dorset and Wiltshire this week are commonplace. Men are routinely sharing pictures of women, mocking them and abusing them, and its impacting on the public. As people saw in my report, firefighters were going into homes on fire safety visits, taking pictures of womens underwear and then posting them as a trophy on their WhatsApp groups. Its endemic and its not getting the attention from senior management that it should. It is a sad state of affairs that it is only now coming to light, but we are talking about two or three decades of abuse. But, says Mr Afzal, the real issue is about holding people to account. Its about protecting whistleblowers when they come forward, he says. People know whats going on, but offenders are routinely given a slap on the wrist and a word of warning. Its not taken seriously. South Wales Fire Service, it was reported last month, is also facing an independent review into abusive behaviour by some firefighters following allegations that two firemen had been allowed to keep their jobs despite sexually harassing and abusing women. This week a LFB female firefighter, responding to the allegations in Dorset and Wiltshire, posted on her Twitter and Facebook feed: The fire services around the UK are rife with misogyny. Male firefighters talking about what underwear female victims are wearing. People dont care as much when I talk about the abuse Ive endured as a female firefighter, but how do you like the thought of someone you love being a victim and being discussed like this? Mr Afzal is calling for a Government-backed independent telephone hotline for female firefighters who, he says, have no confidence in their services, to address the problem, and is urging the National Fire Chiefs Council to act with more urgency to tackle the issues. He also warns that the UKs Fire Service, whose members this week voted to strike over pay for the first time in 20 years, could face the kind of crises which have engulfed Britains police, and led to the resignation of Met Commissioner Dame Cressida Dick last year. When Mr Afzals report was published last year, London Fire Brigade commissioner, Andy Roe, promised a crackdown on sexist or racist firefighters. He had ordered the wide-ranging review after the suicide in August 2020 of trainee firefighter Jaden Francois-Esprit, 21, amid allegations of bullying and racism. He described its findings as horrifying and said public confidence and trust had been betrayed. This week Mr Roe apologised to Jadens mother, Linda Francois, saying: LFB let down your son in almost every aspect. Mr Afzal said hed found stomach-turning incidents of misogyny, racism and bullying, which included some female staff reporting theyd been groped, beaten or their helmets filled with urine. Some male firefighters who visited womens homes for safety checks had reportedly riffled through drawers looking for sex toys and underwear, and posted pictures on WhatsApp, a firefighter told investigators. The LFB review also referenced a private Instagram account, Hoses and Helmets, which female firefighters complained was a breeding ground for the kind of sexism that undermined them at work. When the Mail gained access to Hoses and Helmets, we found a stark contrast to the London Fire Brigades official Instagram page (file image) In our focus groups this [Hoses and Helmets] often came up as an example pointing to the real mind-set of firefighters, the review said. It has to be noted that this is not a LFB handle or run by the LFB, but it has LFB members some of whom are in senior positions. There were clear examples of sexism and misogyny. When the Mail gained access to Hoses and Helmets, we found a stark contrast to the London Fire Brigades official Instagram page, which last year proudly celebrated 40 years of female firefighting. In one post a picture of two drooling, predatory seals is accompanied by the caption: What the new female recruit sees on her first day when everyone tries to either be her dad or flirt with her. The post garnered 225 likes. In another post theres a cartoon image of a woman grimacing, terror in her eyes, with the caption: The face you make after failing to extend the 9m ladder on your own after posting an inspirational international womans day quote on Instagram. A third showed a cartoon pig doing up his flies next to a weeping female pig on a bed with the caption: When she slept with you because youre a firefighter but then tell her youre actually on the drone team. And theres more . . . a cartoon picture of a wet pair of womens knickers, with the caption: When she finds out youve done over 15 years on the job and know your way round a Volvo fire engine; and a cartoon woman bending over with her bare backside next to a monk captioned: When she finds out youre USAR [Urban Search And Rescue] trained but youre waiting for your pager to go off because youre a hero 24/7, 365. According to most recent figures, women make up 8.2 per cent (2,862) of Englands firefighters and in London 425 of LFBs 4,545 operational staff (file image) According to most recent figures, women make up 8.2 per cent (2,862) of Englands firefighters and in London 425 of LFBs 4,545 operational staff. Many have risen through the ranks to hold senior positions not least Dany Cotton, who for two years held the top job as London Fire Brigade Commissioner until 2019. But as the review revealed, even she was not immune from sexism. She spoke of how, as a middle manager, she once visited a station where all the male firefighters walked away because they didnt want to work with a woman. Her 2017 campaign, Firefightingsexism, she added, had resulted in death threats and demands for her to be removed from her job. Mr Afzal says: Its a minority of men bringing their prejudices. The answer is for good men to stand up and report those who are offending and for womens complaints to be taken seriously. The UKs first full-time female firefighter Jo Reynolds, 57, said she was horrified by the findings. Dany Cotton, a senior female firefighter, who for two years held the top job as London Fire Brigade Commissioner She was 17 when she joined Norfolk fire service in 1982, but says todays women firefighters have a much harder time than she ever did. It sends shivers down my spine. Its so awful, she says. The majority of firefighters are not like that, but theres enough of them to cause a big problem. I faced sexism and misogyny, but the people I ended up working with were great. It was the old guard who didnt like change, but I never felt any animosity towards me just because I was a woman. Teasing was part of the culture, but I was never singled out and it happened to all of us. The guys I worked with were fun, but it seems to have gone nuts now. Ms Reynolds, who now works for an NGO in Cambodia, is involved with Women in the Fire Service UK which is now working with the National Fire Chiefs Council to create a code of ethics. I try to be patient and say: These things take time. But 40 years on its still happening or getting worse, she says. With one damning review published and two more under way, could female firefighters working elsewhere in the UK be ready to trigger another? A powerful arctic blast swept into the Northeastern U.S. on Friday, pushing temperatures to a record low- with New Hampshire's Mount Washington recording a wind chill of -104 degrees Fahrenheit (-75 Celsius). A National Weather Service (NWS) advisory said the mass of frigid air would keep temperatures at life-endangering levels through Saturday, warning of 'extremely dangerous' conditions from the 'short-lived blast.' Situated in the White Mountains of northern New Hampshire at 6,288 feet, the Mount Washington Observatory was dealing with a combination of extreme cold and strong winds from an intense blast of arctic air. Boston and Worcester, the two largest cities in New England, were among the school districts closed on Friday over concerns about the risk of hypothermia and frostbite as children waited for buses or walked to school. Boston Mayor Michelle Wu declared a state of emergency through Sunday and opened warming centers to help the city's more than 650,000 residents cope with what the NWS has warned could shape up to be a 'once-in-a-generation' cold front. A National Weather Service (NWS) advisory said the mass of frigid air would keep temperatures at life-endangering levels through Saturday, warning of 'extremely dangerous' conditions from the 'short-lived blast' A National Weather Service (NWS) advisory said the mass of frigid air would keep temperatures at life-endangering levels through Saturday, warning of 'extremely dangerous' conditions from the 'short-lived blast' Daily record lows are possible Saturday morning in southern New England, the New York City metro area and parts of upstate New York thanks to an arctic blast swooping down Mount Washington records wind chills of -104F - the lowest temperature ever recorded in the U.S. - the weather observatory on the mountain is pictured here encased in ice The entire northeast region was shivering from an intense cold blast on Friday A shift in the polar vortex will allow Old Man Winter to deliver some of the coldest air of the season so far to parts of the northeastern United States The extreme cold coming directly from the Arctic will produce extraordinarily cold temperatures and possibly break several long-standing record-low temperatures The cold snip will be something of a temperature roller coaster The sun might be out but there was no warmth being provided in wintry snapshot A person walks on Memorial Drive along the Charles River in Cambridge, Massachusetts Bitterly cold temperatures and high winds are seen in Manhattan as deep cold spread across the northeast United States in New York City After an above-average January, an arctic blast of cold weather is sweeping across the Tri-State area 25 million Americans across nine states in the Northeast are under Wind Chill Advisories and Warnings into Saturday Frostbite can occur on exposed skin in as little s 5-10 minutes. Both people and pets should limit or avoid being outdoors A person holds their onto their winter hat as they shield themselves from cold winds in NYC Temperatures will gradually fall during the day on Friday with the coldest air Friday night Temperatures dipped in the single digits with wind creating an icy and snowy sheen along the shore of Lake Ontario in Webster Park in Webster, New York Ice pancakes and ice balls from Lake Ontario flow into Irondequoit Bay near the Irondequoit Bay Outlet Bridge in Irondequoit, New York Mute Swans and other birds take shelter in Irondequoit Bay in Irondeqquoit, New York near the Irondequoit Bay Outlet Bridge from the windy Lake Ontario on Friday A sheen of ice covers a bench on the pier in Webster Park in Webster, New York Grocery store employee Chad Groskritz brings in shopping carts during a winter storm in Mansfield, Connecticut The bitter cold forecast forced a rare closing of a floating museum that presents a daily re-enactment of the 1773 Boston Tea Party, when a band of colonists disguised as Native Americans tossed crates of tea taxed by the king into the harbor. 'It's too cold for that, we're closed,' a receptionist at the museum said on Friday. Early on Friday, the core of the cold air mass, driven from Arctic Canada into the United States by high-altitude air currents, was centered over the U.S. Plains, said weather service forecaster Bob Oravec. International Falls, Minnesota, was the coldest spot as of 7 a.m., with temperatures hovering around -36 F (-38 C). Dry air meant snowfall would be limited, he said. 'It's moving into the Northeast' and temperatures will drop throughout the day on Friday, he said. 'That's the biggest story of the day.' In Mount Washington State Park, atop the Northeast's highest peak, temperatures were expected to fall to a record low of -50 F (-46 C) later Friday, officials for the New Hampshire park service said. By comparison, air temperatures in Eureka, Canada's northernmost Arctic weather station, were hovering at -41 F (-41 C) on Friday morning. Smokestacks in the distance shimmer in the cold waves over Lake Ontario in Toronto, on Friday Firefighters battle a five-alarm fire in an apartment building on a frigid winter day, Friday in Montreal A jogger runs along the Charles River, with the Boston skyline visible in the background, Friday The breath of Eric Beastien is visible against the cold air as he removes holiday lights along the main business street in Federal Hill, the city's Italian neighborhood, in Providence A woman eats a bagel while walking in bitterly cold temperatures and high winds in Manhattan People bundle up as they shield themselves from cold winds as the area is sees record-breaking low temperatures in New York City The Northeast U.S. has seen a dramatic drop in temperatures as an Arctic front of cold air hits it The good news is that the cold won't last long. By Saturday night the temperatures will ease and it will rebound into the 40s on Sunday Saturday won't be as windy, but feels-like temperatures will only get into the single digits The wind chill, which describes the combined effect of wind and cold temperatures on exposed skin, could register at -110 F (-79 C) at Mount Washington's peak, typically one of the coldest places in the country. Boston was about 22 above zero F (-6 C) on Friday morning, with temperatures expected to plummet throughout the day and hit -3 F (-19 C) by midnight. In Worcester, Massachusetts, 40 miles (64 km) to the west, temperatures were expected to drop to -14 F (-25 C) before starting to moderate on Saturday. Despite the extreme cold, Nhon Ma, a Belgium native, was out on Friday with his Zinneken's food truck near Boston University selling Belgium waffles made from homemade dough, and keeping warm with three or four waffle irons going at once. 'Those create heat, but of course it's cold, it's going to be cold, but we're here,' Ma said. In a frigid Biddeford, Maine, about 95 miles (150 km) north of Boston, Katie Pinard, owner of a coffee and book shop, said business was brisk as customers came in from the cold, with some opting to work from her shop, Elements: Books Coffee Beer, rather than commute. A woman braces herself against the cold as she walks through Times Square in New York Firefighters battle a five-alarm fire in an apartment building on a frigid winter day on Montreal Kolton Gagnon walks with his dog Chomsky in downtown Fredericton, New Brunswick. Environment Canada has issued an Extreme Cold Warning for the area due to an arctic airmass that is combining with strong northwest winds to give bitterly cold conditions People walk in Washington Square Park in Manhattan as bitter cold temperatures moved into much of the northeast United States in New York City A person passes through a steam vent in bitterly cold temperatures and high winds in Manhattan A woman walks on the Longfellow Bridge over the Charles River in Cambridge, Massachusetts People bundle up in bitterly cold temperatures and high winds in Manhattan as the deep cold spread 'Yeah, Mainers are pretty hardy, but talk to me tomorrow and we'll see if we're busy or not,' she said, looking ahead to Saturday morning, when temperatures were expected to drop to -18 F (-28 C). 'I think people are out and doing what they need to get done before the real cold hits.' While the Northeast was hunkering down, Texas and parts of the South were starting to warm up in the aftermath of a deadly winter ice storm that brought days of freezing rain, sleet and ice, causing massive power outages and dangerously icy roads. More than 300,000 homes and businesses in Texas, Arkansas, Mississippi and Tennessee remained without power on Friday, according to Poweroutage.us, after ice toppled power lines and trees. But the weather was warming up, with temperatures in Austin, Texas expected to hit 52 F (11 C) on Friday and 71 F (22 C) by Monday, forecasts say. A woman walks in midtown Manhattan as bitter cold temperatures moved into much of the northeast People walk in Washington Square Park in Manhattan as bitter cold temperatures hit A man walks his dog at Pleasure Beach as the sunrises along Boston Harbor in Boston According to the National Weather Service, the dangerously cold airmass moving into the region could drop the temperature to as low as -4F (-20C), along with windgusts of 35 mph to 50 mph driving windchill temperatures to as low as -40F (-40C) A woman jogs braves the chilly temps as she jogs along Memorial Drive along the Charles River in Cambridge, Massachusett The wind chill is expected to drop to negative numbers with temperatures hitting 0 to 10 degrees Fahrenheit in parts of the NYC metro area New York will be hit with dangerously cold conditions this weekend The Northeast U.S. has seen a dramatic temperature drop as an Arctic front of cold air hits A short-lived but harsh dose of arctic air will cover the Northeast Friday and Saturday Wind Chill Warnings and Advisories are in place for the entire Northeast except for NYC as dangerously cold feels-like temperatures take over People brace themselves against a cold wind as they walk through Times Square in New York Jose Perez puts on a hat and mittens left on a fence intended for people like him who are experiencing homelessness as a cold Arctic Front hits in Boston The ABC has apologised after sparking backlash over its coverage of an Alice Springs crisis meeting that was described as a 'white supremacist fest'. The public broadcaster issued a grovelling apology admitting it provided 'incomplete' coverage of the Save Alice Springs meeting held on Monday. Some 3,000 terrified locals had turned up to discuss their concerns over the out-of-control youth crime wave spreading throughout their community. The ABC was accused of bias after interviewing people who slammed the meeting as 'racist' with one labelling it 'scary' and a 'white supremacist fest' in spite of the fact Indigenous leaders were also present at the gathering. The ABC has apologised after sparking backlash over its coverage of an Alice Springs crisis meeting that was described as a 'white supremacist fest' The public broadcaster issued a grovelling apology admitting it provided 'incomplete' coverage of the Save Alice Springs meeting held on Monday The public broadcaster faced the threat of an official investigation over its coverage that was aired on its flagship current affairs show AM and in another TV report. The ABC released a statement on Saturday apologising to its audience. 'We acknowledge that one report on AM was incomplete, and did not adequately cover the full context of the meeting or the range of perspectives expressed at it,' it read. 'ABC News apologises to audiences for providing an incomplete picture of the event in this instance.' The public broadcaster went on to say it had 'reportedly accurately' on the views of 'some people who attended the community meeting'. 'However, this report should have included a broader range of perspectives expressed at the meeting and further information about what was discussed, to provide additional context,' the statement read. 'Following this report, ABC News published additional coverage of the issue which included a broader range of perspectives and context.' The ABC stood behind its journalists saying it had extensively covered the ongoing issues of substance abuse and public violence in the area. ABC Indigenous Affairs correspondent Carly Williams' live cross on TV of the meeting said many people had left the meeting early and that 'a non-indigenous person' had described the meeting as 'a disgusting display of white supremacy' The AM report of the crisis meeting is still available online but comes with an Editor's Note. Liberal senator Sarah Henderson, who is a former ABC employee, filed a complaint about two reports the ABC filed about a crime meeting to the Australian Communications and Media Authority. Senator Henderson called the report 'monumentally distorted', and slammed ABC management defending the reporting as 'complete and utter rubbish'. The senator, who once worked as a consumer reporter on the ABC and once presented 7.30 in Victoria, described the broadcaster's coverage as 'rubbish reporting'. But she said the the report highlighted a deeper issue with the taxpayer funded broadcaster, which is supposed to be free from bias under its charter. 'The ABC's senior management and spin doctors have defended this report,' she said. Liberal senator Sarah Henderson, who is a former ABC employee, filed a complaint about two reports the ABC filed about a crime meeting to the Australian Communications and Media Authority 'There should be a retraction, and an apology, and a review of journalism training standards. 'I'm asking ACMA to investigate the ABC for a breach of its code of practice.' Thousands of fed-up residents attended the Save Alice Springs meeting after intense media focus on the town's battle with a crime crisis, amid threats by locals to sue the Northern Territory government for $1.5billion in compensation. The audience at the town hall meeting was comprised of concerned families, business owners, Indigenous leaders, health and emergency services workers and police. ABC Indigenous Affairs correspondent Carly Williams' live cross on TV of the meeting said many people had left the meeting early and that 'a non-indigenous person' had described the meeting as 'a disgusting display of white supremacy'. University of Idaho victim Xana Kernodle is said to have fought back against her attacker and repeatedly grabbed the knife after her friends were stabbed to death, sources claim. Kaylee Goncalves, 21, and Madison Mogen, 21, who were found in the same bed on November 13, were killed first before the killer, alleged to be Bryan Kohberger, brutally murdered Kernodle, 20, and her boyfriend Ethan Chapin, 20. Sources told News Nation that Kernodle's fingers were nearly severed off from grabbing the knife and repeatedly fighting back. The source's information matches what Kernodle's father Jeffrey Kernodle revealed in November. Jeffrey Kernodle told CBS 5 that autopsy reports showed that his daughter's skin showed 'bruises, torn by the knife.' Xana Kernodle is said to have fought back against her attacker and repeatedly grabbed the knife after her friends were stabbed to death She and her boyfriend Ethan Chapin, both 20, were killed second after Kaylee Goncalves, 21, and Madison Mogen, 21, who were found in the same bed A source told News Nation her fingers were nearly severed off from fighting back, which matched an earlier report from Kernodle's father Jeffrey revealed in November. The dad revealed the autopsy showed that his daughter's skin showed 'bruises, torn by the knife' Recently, it was revealed that three University of Idaho students claimed they saw Kohberger in the student union 'sitting by himself' weeks before the killings. One student who identified herself as Chelsea, a sophomore, said she saw Kohberger, a student at the nearby Washington State University, eating alone in the food court just weeks before the November 13 slayings. 'He was the type to stare,' she said. 'He wouldn't look away if you caught him staring. 'Like he wanted you to notice that he was looking at you. He didn't smile, didn't nod, didn't say anything. Just stared.' Chelsea told PEOPLE that Kohberger's stare was making her 'uncomfortable,' and that she and her friends left to eat outside 'because we wanted to get away from him.' Another female student at the school said she, too, grew 'uncomfortable' over Kohberger's stare after allegedly running into him multiple times on campus. The four University of Idaho students were killed in their off-campus home on November 13 She said because the school is relatively small, she grew to recognize people around campus and was sure she spotted Kohberger on several occasions. 'I definitely saw him more than once,' she told PEOPLE. 'He was just really quiet and really intense, staring. He made me uncomfortable.' The alleged sighting of Kohberger at the campus comes after police said they believed the quadruple murders suspect spent time at the University of Idaho campus before carrying out the brutal killings. The university hired more campus police and increased the number of officers on the ground following the murders, and despite Kohberger's arrest, officials said the increased enforcement will remain in place. The University of Idaho did not immediately respond to DailyMail.com's request for comment on the alleged Kohberger sightings. University of Idaho students have said they saw suspect Bryan Kohberger on campus prior to the murders Investigators are seen taking a bloody mattress from the home on December 30 The alleged sightings at the University of Idaho wouldn't be the first time women accused Kohberger of making them uncomfortable or scaring them away. Jordan Serulneck, 34, who runs Seven Siren Brewing Company in Kohberger's native Pennsylvania, said the suspect had problematic interactions with women at his bar. Serulneck told NBC workers labeled Kohberger in their systems as a guy who 'makes creepy comments' and said he once called a staffer 'a b***h' for spurning his advances. Reading his staffers notes on Kohberger, Serulneck, of Central Valley, said: 'Hey, this guy makes creepy comments, keep an eye on him. He'll have two or three beers and then just get a little too comfortable.' All four students were killed between 3 and 4am on November 13 (pictured: Kernodle and Mogen) Kernodle was found in her room with her boyfriend the night of the murder Kohberger, who studies criminology at WSU, has been charged with the murders of four University of Idaho students. Officers called to the scene of the bloody crime on November 13 quickly discovered a K-Bar knife sheath next to the bodies of Maddie Mogen and Kaylee Goncalves. Unsealed court documents show the painstaking work done by officers, who matched the DNA found on the sheath to Kohberger's by comparing it to his father's DNA which was a 99.9998 percent match, and identified via a genetic genealogy website. Court documents recently revealed that police discovered a pillow covered in 'blood' in Kohbergers Washington apartment. A new search warrant, made public on January 17, shows that police also found several hair strands, including one suspected animal hair, a black glove, a computer tower and one unnamed item with a collection of 'dark red spots.' Afghan refugee families who fled the Taliban for a new life in the UK are being forced to move 200 miles from London to Yorkshire. A shortage of accommodation means the group of 40 families, including 150 children, need to be resettled in a different part of the country by Tuesday. They have been living at taxpayers expense in a four-star hotel in Kensington, west London, for more than a year and have been told they must move to the cheaper three-star Mercure Hotel in Wetherby, near Leeds. Yesterday some of the refugees, including an ex-Afghan general, protested against the plans outside Downing Street. The families were evacuated when the Taliban took control of Afghanistan because they worked alongside the British authorities and included army translators. Their evacuation was a triumph for the Daily Mails Betrayal of the Brave campaign that has been fighting for sanctuary in the UK for translators who risked their lives to help the British Army. A shortage of accommodation means the group of 40 families, including 150 children, need to be resettled in a different part of the country by Tuesday Yesterday some of the refugees, including an ex-Afghan general, protested against the plans outside Downing Street. [File image] The Wetherby hotel has family bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms, high-speed Wi-Fi and tea and coffee making facilities. But the families are angry at the switch as it will disrupt their childrens education and mean adults who have found work in London must seek new jobs in Yorkshire. A 21-year-old among the Westminster protesters said the news was devastating for his family as his 60-year-old father was due to undergo a liver transplant in London. The man, who works at Harvey Nichols and is one of eight members of the family, said: We are devastated. Its in the middle of the education year so if we move to Wetherby, there will be no space in schools for my siblings. Another protester, aged 40, said the move would force him to leave his shop job and seek employment again. He said: My children are not happy with the decision because of their education, they have friends here, they have got used to the school having been there for one-and-a-half years. It is understood the Home Office told the families last September of the need to find new accommodation. A Home Office spokesman said: While hotels do not provide a long-term solution, they do offer safe, secure and clean accommodation. We will continue to bring down the number of people in bridging hotels, moving people into more sustainable accommodation as quickly as possible. Occasionally families may be moved from a hotel scheduled for closure to another hotel. In these instances, families are given appropriate notice of a move and are supported by their local authority every step of the way. The UK will welcome up to 20,000 people in need through the Afghan Citizens Resettlement Scheme. We are proud this country has provided homes for more than 7,500 Afghan evacuees, but there is a shortage of local housing accommodation for all. Since the launch of Operation Warm Welcome, hundreds of Afghans have been moved from London to hotels around the country. One challenge is that Afghan families are often significantly larger than UK ones so suitable accommodation is hard to find. The average size of an Afghan family given sanctuary in the UK is about six people, whereas the average family size in Britain is three. The brutal mother who tortured Tony Hudgell is to be released from jail despite only serving half of her 10-year sentence. Jody Simpson, 29, and partner Anthony Smith were both jailed for 10 years in 2018 after abusing the little boy so badly that both his legs were amputated. But a senior judge ruled yesterday that Simpson should be released after Justice Secretary Dominic Raab conceded this could not be further delayed by a Court of Appeal challenge. Tony's adoptive mother Paula Hudgell, 55, said she was 'shocked' to learn of the release and had been unaware of Friday's hearing until informed of its outcome by a victim liaison officer. 'I was pretty shocked to be told that she was going to be released today,' she said. Jody Simpson, 29, has been released from jail despite serving just half of her 10-year sentence for abusing baby Tony Hudgell 'We knew at the end of the day that she would be released at some point. 'We now just have to prepare Tony and do all we can for him. It doesn't change anything for him at all.' Tony was 41 days old when assaulted by his birth parents - an attack which caused multiple fractures, dislocations and blunt trauma to the face leading to organ failure, toxic shock and sepsis. He was left untreated and in agony for 10 days and due to the extent of his injuries both his legs were then amputated. Now, Mrs Hudgell said Tony faces 'daily challenges' but is a 'very happy, joyful eight-year-old'. Tony's adoptive mother Paula Hudgell (pictured on the left with Tony), 55, said she was 'shocked' to learn of the release Tony was 41 days old when severely abused in the hands of his birth parents. He was left untreated and in agony for 10 days and due to the extent of his injuries both his legs were then amputated Simpson was due for release on licence in August, but Justice Secretary Dominic Raab stepped in to block this using new discretionary powers that protect the public from dangerous offenders. In December, following a legal challenge by Simpson, a High Court judge ruled the minister's bid to delay her release was unlawful and his decisions to refer her case should be quashed. A Court of Appeal in London on Friday heard that the Justice Secretary was refused permission to challenge this as there was an absence of 'reasonable grounds' for his belief that Simpson posed a risk which met the criteria of the new powers. Although Mrs Hudgell previously said Simpson and Smith's sentence 'doesn't reflect the severity of the crime', she is 'very thankful' to Mr Raab for pursuing his bid to delay Simpson's release. 'I feel they've done everything they possibly could to try and change things,' she said, adding: 'We appreciate every extra day that she spent in prison from August as a bonus.' Tony's father, Anthony Smith, who took part in abusing the baby boy Simpson's release was put on hold pending the outcome of Mr Raab's appeal bid. *** But Jude Bunting KC, representing Simpson, told the court the Government would need to win an appeal on both issues for Mrs Justice Williams's ruling to be overturned. 'The Secretary of State effectively accepts that he cannot now overturn that quashing order,' he said, adding that Government correspondence 'fails to set out any legal reason' why the stay on Simpson's release should not be lifted. Lord Justice Holroyde said Mr Raab had 'accepted that it would be necessary to overturn the judge's decisions on both grounds... in order to succeed on appeal in reversing the judge's decision to quash'. He said it may be that the Justice Secretary may not continue with the appeal, or that other judges 'may be concerned as to whether the appeal has become academic'. The judge said Simpson should be 'released on conditional licence within a reasonable time'. Now, Mrs Hudgell said Tony faces 'daily challenges' but is a 'very happy, joyful eight-year-old' Previously proposed conditions to be imposed on Simpson if released included not communicating with Tony or his family, no unsupervised contact with children under 16 without prior approval, not to contact Smith, and to observe a nightly curfew. The referral of a prisoner's case under the new powers overrides the automatic conditional release of an individual, in specific circumstances where public safety is deemed to be at risk. Prisoners referred under this 'power to detain' are not released until the Parole Board is satisfied that it is no longer necessary for the protection of the public for the prisoner to be confined, or they reach the end of their sentence Smith's sentence was also previously referred to the board by Mr Raab, which put his release on licence on hold. A senior judge ruled yesterday that Simpson should be released after Justice Secretary Dominic Raab conceded this could not be further delayed by a Court of Appeal challenge Tougher sentencing for child abusers came into force in June, meaning anyone who causes or allows the death of a child or vulnerable adult in their household can now be given up to life in prison - increased from the previous 14-year maximum. The sentencing changes under the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Act 2022 are known as 'Tony's Law', following campaigning by the child's adoptive family. 'That's his legacy that he's very, very proud of,' Mrs Hudgell said. A Ministry of Justice spokesperson said: 'Public safety is our top priority which is why the Deputy Prime Minister referred this case to the Parole Board and introduced Tony's Law to make sure those who commit unthinkable crimes against children are brought to justice. 'High-risk offenders like Jody Simpson are closely monitored by both the police and the Probation Service and can be sent back to prison if they breach their strict licence conditions.' Bulgarian President Rumen Radev has signed a decree for the country to hold parliamentary elections on April 2, the country's fifth in two years, his press office said in a statement on Thursday. In the same decree, Radev dissolved Parliament with effect from Friday. The president was obliged to make this move because the parties in Parliament failed to form a new cabinet after the elections held on Oct. 2 last year. Radev also reappointed Galab Donev as caretaker prime minister for the interim period. There is only one change in his new cabinet with a new minister for culture. Bulgaria's National Assembly (Parliament) elects the government by a simple majority for a four-year term. Rishi Sunak was last night standing by the countrys top civil servant despite his apparent failure to tell the Prime Minister about complaints against Dominic Raab. A No 10 spokesman insisted Mr Sunak was not aware of any formal complaint about Mr Raab before appointing him as Justice Secretary. But he did not deny a report that Cabinet Secretary Simon Case had been personally informed of a written complaint against Mr Raab months before being welcomed into the current Cabinet. The Times reported that an inquiry into Mr Raabs behaviour towards officials has been told that he had to be spoken to about it last spring, when Boris Johnson was prime minister, and that Mr Case was informed. Mr Sunak has always maintained that he was not aware of any formal complaint against Mr Raab before bringing him back into government. A No 10 spokesman insisted Mr Sunak was not aware of any formal complaint about Dominic Raab (pictured) before appointing him as Justice Secretary. Mr Raab denies bullying and the PM insists he ordered an inquiry as soon as he was made aware of formal complaints. But officials are understood to have told Adam Tolley, the KC leading an inquiry into Mr Raabs conduct, that they thought No 10 was aware of a written complaint last summer. Asked if Mr Sunak was confident he is getting solid advice from the Cabinet Secretary, the No 10 spokesman said: Yes. The Prime Minister has full confidence in Simon Case. Dozens of civil servants are understood to have submitted written statements in support of Mr Raabs accusers. Government ministers hope the new Online Safety Bill will combat misogynistic abuse of women on social media. Tory peer Baroness Morgan, a former culture secretary, and current culture secretary Michelle Donelan are backing the bill and want to ensure a legally enforceable code of practice which will protect women, The Telegraph reports. Last year ministers rejected a bid to have misogyny classed as a hate crime, but there is now hope social media platforms will be forced to stamp out abuse. The failure to safeguard users could result in fines and, in some cases, have platforms blocked entirely by online watchdog Ofcom, the publication reports. Tory peer Baroness Morgan (pictured), a former culture secretary, is championing the bill There is also a hope that platforms could be forced to provide users with an option to screen out misogyny. The government earlier opted to ditch initial measures which would protect social media users from 'legal but harmful content' amid concerns it could undermine freedom of speech. But Baroness Morgan said: 'What about the right to access and participation online without being abused and harassed? 'There are going to be some specific criminal offences in the Bill, but they don't address the misogyny that has grown up not just on small high harm platforms but right the way across mainstream platforms. 'It's things like threats of rape, death threats, very much directed at women because they are women and girls. It's designed to drive women off platforms. They don't necessarily break the illegal threshold, but it all goes to making a space where women are deliberately made to feel uncomfortable.' The failure to safeguard users could result in fines and, in some cases, have platforms blocked entirely by online watchdog Ofcom, the publication reports Dame Maria Miller, a former culture secretary and womens minister, has thrown her support behind Baroness Morgan's amendment. Baroness Bertin and shadow culture secretary Lucy Powell have also pledged support. In February 2022, then Home Secretary Priti Patel sent a letter to all 650 MPs stating she believed branding misogyny a hate crime would prove 'more harmful than helpful' to women. A recent Law Commission report cited by the Home Office claimed prosecutors would struggle to prove 'gender-based aggravation' in crimes that usually take place behind closed doors if misogyny is added existing hate crime laws. The Law Commission, which recommends legal changes, had argued the move to make misogyny a hate crime would create 'hierarchies of victims' - and make prosecuting rape and domestic abuse more difficult. The boys - two aged 16 and one 15 - were arrested after a West Midlands murder Three teenage boys have been charged with the murder of a man who was knifed outside a supermarket in the West Midlands, after being arrested 100 miles away in North Wales. Bailey Atkinson, 20, was stabbed to death outside an Asda in Walsall in the early hours of January 28. On Tuesday, three boys - one 15-year-old and two aged 16 - were arrested at a hotel in Rhyl, North Wales. The teenagers cannot be named due to their ages but West Midlands Police confirmed that they had been charged on Friday night. The boys are now due to appear at Wolverhampton Magistrates' Court on Saturday. West Midlands Police said Bailey Atkinson was set upon by a 'group of men carrying weapons' in Walsall town centre outside Asda on January 28 A murder probe was launched after Mr Atkinson was set upon by a 'group of men carrying weapons' in Walsall town centre. The victim was rushed to hospital in the early hours of January 28 but was pronounced dead just before 3am. Following the incident a large part of the town centre was sealed off while officers conducted a fingertip search. CCTV was also recovered as part of the initial investigation, Detective Inspector Laura Harrison confirmed. A post-mortem revealed Mr Atkinson, from Bloxwich, had died of multiple stab wounds. Detective Inspector Jim Mahon added: 'Our investigation has been fast paced but has not stopped with these arrests. 'We know there were others involved in the tragic events of Saturday night and we are determined to find everyone involved to get justice for Bailey's family. Three teenage boys have now been charged with the murder of a man who was stabbed to death in the West Midlands 'We urge anyone with information that they may be withholding, possibly through misguided loyalty, to come forward now.' Mr Atkinson's family have previously paid tribute to him as their 'beloved boy Bailey, our kindhearted and much-loved son, brother and grandson'. They added: 'Bailey was so loved, by so many and will be missed so much.' A Section 60 dispersal order will remain in place until Saturday morning in the areas of St Matthews, Bloxwich West and East, Blakenall, Birchills and Leamore. The order, which police said is used when there is a risk of violence, allows officers to stop and search people suspected of being involved in violence, without the need to have reasonable grounds. She sent emails to her customers telling them that she had stage three cancer Lyne Barlow defrauded more than 1,400 customers with her fake cancer story A travel agent who faked cancer sent emails to her customers telling them she had 'stage three' tumours growing inside her after they raised concerns over their holiday booking with her. Lyne Barlow, 39, defrauded more than 1,400 customers with her fake cancer story, using her sham illness to shield from the avalanche of complaints from devastated families whose holidays failed to materialise. The travel agent, who was jailed at Durham Crown Court for nine years, received sympathetic emails from customers she tricked into thinking she was gravely ill. After victims started to inform the authorities of Barlow's holiday scams, there were so many calls to the police that they had to be directed to an email address because emergency callers would have been unable to get through. In total Barlow could be proven to have defrauded family, friends and customers out of 1.2m, but investigators believe the total sum she gained over a period of five years from 2015 to 2020 was 2.6m. Lyne Barlow, 39, claimed to her customers that she was covered by insurance and was a member of the trusted travel brand Association of British Travel Agents When one of her customers asked about her existing booking, Barlow wrote back telling them that she had stage three cancer One of the duped victims over Barlow's cancer lie responded: 'I am so sorry to hear this it's awful times for you. I will keep this to myself' Emails showed how the dodgy travel agent duped her victims into thinking she was battling cancer. When one of her customers asked about her existing booking, Barlow wrote back telling them that she had stage three cancer. Barlow wrote: 'Unfortunately I've just found out my cancer has spread and it's gone to stage 3/4 it's in my bones and need to have chemo put into my spine to stop it from getting to my brain. 'It's going to be pretty intense.' One of the duped victims over Barlow's cancer lie responded: 'I am so sorry to hear this it's awful times for you. I will keep this to myself.' Another victim emails Barlow after not hearing about their holiday booking despite following up several times. Barlow tells them that she was not well enough to work last week and missed the customers successive emails that were concerned about their imminent holiday booking. Another of Barlow's concerned customers emails to ask her how her treatment is going and to ask about why their flights are yet to be changed. The travel agent, who has was jailed at Durham Crown Court for nine years, received sympathetic emails from customers she tricked into thinking she was gravely ill Barlow tells one of the victims that she was not well enough to work last week and missed the customers successive emails that were concerned about their imminent holiday booking. In September 2020, worried customers started to share their experiences on social media about holidays falling through after booking with the 39-year-old's business. To cope with the sudden influx of calls about the holiday scams, Durham Police directed victims to an email address for people to lodge their complaints, then set up a 20-strong team of officers to follow up. They recorded more than 450 crimes, involving around 1,400 victims, and it became one of Durham Police's largest ever fraud investigations. Detectives soon decided to arrest and interview the mother-of-two and even as officers went to her home in Stanley, County Durham, customers were knocking on her door to try to find out what had happened to their bookings, and their money. Detective Sergeant Alan Meehan said: 'Victims were turning up at the house as she was being arrested. 'Some were angry and concerned, others were relatively sympathetic towards her because of her saying she had cancer.' The business which largely operated on social media had spiralled out of control after happy customers shared word of the fabulous holidays they had enjoyed at knock-down prices - deals which were unsustainably cheap. So when people's bookings fell through, flights had not been booked and some were even left stranded abroad, word spread equally as fast online, sparking the deluge of complaints to police. Her operation angered many people who lost out on dream holidays for key birthdays, hen dos and even wedding parties. There was an arson attack on her home - the address from which she ran her business - on the night she was arrested, police said. No-one has been prosecuted for that offence. Travel agent Lyne Barlow (left) arrives at Durham Crown Court to be sentenced for defrauding friends, family and hundreds of customers who bought holidays from her in a 2.6 million con Lyne Barlow claimed to her customers that she was covered by insurance and was a member of the trusted travel brand Association of British Travel Agents. (Pictured left: Lyne Barlow) Barlow was so determined to continue her charade that she even convinced her husband, Paul, and son and daughter she was battling cancer. Family members took her to hospital appointments, unaware that she was simply waiting inside before re-emerging claiming to have seen her consultant. To make her story more convincing, she cut off strands of her hair and scattered them across her pillow to make it look as though she was losing it to chemotherapy. When Barlow was arrested in 2020 she hobbled into the police station with her head swathed in a scarf and walking with a stick. Custody photographs show a vast difference when she was re-arrested a year later and was forced to admit her 'stage 3/4' cancer had been a fabrication. The son of Alex Murdaugh's housekeeper has taken the stand at the disgraced South Carolina attorney's double murder trial to accuse him of stealing a $4 million wrongful death payout following the death of his mother at the Murdaugh home where she worked. Prosecutors asked a judge Friday to consider allowing the son of Murdaugh's longtime housekeeper to tell jurors about how after she died in a fall at Murdaugh's home, he promised her family to take care of them and then stole millions in settlements with his insurers. Prosecutors say they want jurors to know how Murdaugh stole over $4 million from his housekeeper's relatives after her death and then killed his wife and son to cover up his crimes. Tony Satterfield said his mom cleaned the Murdaugh home, but also babysat their two sons and did anything else they asked over a period of 20 years. Alex Murdaugh, right, leans over to talk with his attorney Jim Griffin in his double murder trial at the Colleton County Courthouse in Walterboro, on Friday Tony Satterfield, son of Gloria Satterfield, points out Alex Murdaugh during Murdaugh's double murder trial on Friday Gloria Satterfield, is said to have died after falling at the Murdaugh home in 2018. She was the family's housekeeper and nanny for 25 years She died at age 57 a few weeks after hitting her head in a fall in February 2018 on steps at the family's house. 'Did you ever get one cent from Alex Murdaugh?' prosecutor Creighton Waters asked Friday. 'No,' Satterfield answered. To this day, Satterfield's two sons say they still don't know how the fall caused her such horrific injuries that she died from them. The jury was not present to hear Satterfield's evidence. Instead, Judge Newman has been holding separate hearings about how much evidence prosecutors should be able to introduce. Tony Satterfield explained how after his mother's death, Murdaugh told him and his brother, 'Let me go out to my insurance company to get the medical bills for your mom paid.' Such was the connection between the two families, he considered Murdaugh to be his lawyer, even though nothing formal was ever signed. He said he hoped the two Satterfield sons would end up with about $100,000 each after the medical bills were paid. Court documents state how Alex Murdaugh, a former attorney himself, told Satterfield's sons he was personally responsible for the fall and said he would 'sue himself' so that their family would be taken care of financially. To this day, Satterfield's two sons say they still don't know how the fall caused her such horrific injuries that she died from them and never received a penny from an insurance payout But progress seemed to be extremely slow. 'At first it was half-hearted,' Tony said on Friday. '[Alex] said they were making progress but he left it at that.' Satterfield said he learned of payouts over his mother's death in a local newspaper. Murdaugh had never told him that there were in fact two insurance policies with benefits of roughly $500,000 and $5 million that he had received the funds for. WhenSatterfield finally made contact with Murdaugh, he said he was only told they were still making progress and were hoping to settle by the end of the year. 'Did you ever get one cent from Alex Murdaugh before all of this happened?' Waters asked. 'No,' Satterfield responded. He was unable to state for certain if he reached out to Murdaugh before or after the murders. 'It was around that time, but I don't remember if it was before or after,' he said. In October 2021 Murdaugh was charged with stealing insurance settlements meant for the Satterfield's sons that a lawsuit said totaled more than $4 million. Murdaugh managed to secure $4.3 million from his insurers, but he only told the sons about a $500,000 settlement and then never sent them a dime, the lawsuit claims. Murdaugh took the settlement money by creating a fraudulent bank account with a name similar to a legal consulting firm that handles settlements, the lawsuit said. Murdaugh, 54, is standing trial in the shootings of his 52-year-old wife, Maggie, and 22-year-old son, Paul, on June 7, 2021, at their Colleton County home. He faces 30 years to life in prison if convicted of murder. Judge Clifton Newman hasn't ruled yet how much if any of the financial crimes evidence he will allow jurors to hear. The issue of whether jurors can hear testimony about financial misdeeds has been its own mini trial within the double murder proceedings. Satterfield testified that after Murdaugh promised to take care of his housekeeper's family, he suggested they hire one of his friends - who was also a college roommate and godfather to one of his sons - to be the executor of his mother's estate. Satterfield heard little from Murdaugh until they spoke in June 2021. He said Murdaugh told them they were working on a settlement hopefully by the end of the year. Court records show Murdaughs insurers had already paid more than $4 million for the fall. 'Did you give him permission to steal your money?' Waters asked Satterfield. 'No,' he replied. Murdaugh told Satterfield's sons at her February 2018 funeral that he would get insurance settlements for her death and take care of them, according to the lawsuit filed by the sons. Griffin asked only a few questions in cross-examination but honed in on how Satterfield didnt know the exact date in June 2021 the conversation took place. In an interview with NBC's Dateline in October 2021, Gloria's brother, Eric Harriott Jr., said: 'It ain't about the money. It's like she was a nobody, as much as she's done for him.' Gloria's sister, Ginger Harriott Hadwin, added: 'Did he have that going through his mind that day when we buried Gloria, and thinking, 'oh, how much money am I gonna get? How can I get this?'' Murdaugh's wife and son were killed on June 7, 2021. Paul Murdaugh was shot twice with a shotgun and Maggie Murdaugh was shot four or five times with a rifle. Even though Gloria Satterfield died in an accident, her death was never reported to the Hampton County coroner. Alex Murdaugh is lead into the Colleton County Courthouse before his double murder trial Alex Murdaugh, center, speaks with attorney Dick Harpootlian during his double murder trial at the Colleton County Courthouse on Friday State Law Enforcement Division agents exhumed her body about a year after the deaths of Murdaugh's son and wife, but never announced any findings of reopening the investigation into her death. The Murdaugh family told the sons their mother tripped over the family dog and died three weeks later from her lingering injuries. Other lawyers came in to help the Satterfield family and they have collected more than $4 million in settlements from Murdaugh's friend, the bank involved with Murdaugh and others. Prosecutors are asking Judge Newman to allow them to present evidence of Murdaugh stealing money from clients and his law firm to bolster their premise that Murdaugh killed his family to gain sympathy and buy time because his thefts and massive debts were about to be discovered. Murdaugh is charged, but hasn't been tried, with a range of about 100 other crimes, including the thefts, running a drug and money laundering ring, tax evasion and insurance fraud for trying to arrange his own death so his surviving son could collect $10 million in life insurance. Police said the would-be fatal shot only grazed Murdaugh's head. Firearms examiner Paul Greer removes a shotgun from an evidence box during Alex Murdaugh's double murder trial at the Colleton County Courthouse in Walterboro, South Carolina Greer said the bullets recovered from Maggie Murdaugh's body and bullets found fired at other places on the property weren't suitable to test to see if they came from the same gun The jury returned to the courtroom late Friday morning to hear from several state agents who collected fingerprints and DNA samples, and also tested guns, ammunition and shotgun pellets found in the bodies of the victims. Markings on the cartridges found near Maggie Murdaugh's body matched markings found on fired cartridges discovered near a gun range on the property and elsewhere, implying they could have been fired from the same Blackout rifle, State Law Enforcement Division agent Paul Greer testified. But the rifle that fired all those bullets has not been found, Greer said. During cross examination, defense attorney Jim Griffin asked a number of questions based on scientific advances in matching guns to fired bullets. Buster, Maggie, Paul and Alex Murdaugh (from left). Murdaugh's wife, Maggie, and son Paul were found shot dead at the family's hunting lodge in a horrific double murder in June 2021 Murdaugh has adamantly denied having anything to do with the killings of his wife and son The defense argues that based on the new science, ballistics experts cant say with 100% certainty that there are unique markings linking a gun to a cartridge loaded into a Blackout rifle. Greer said the bullets recovered from Maggie Murdaugh's body and bullets found fired at other places on the property weren't suitable to test to see if they came from the same gun. 'You arent here to tell the jury that any of the weapons in this courtroom were used, in your opinion, to murder Maggie or Paul, correct?' Griffin asked Greer to start his cross examination. Greer answered almost all of Griffin's yes or no questions with long explanations saying test results were inconclusive or he hadn't studied every Blackout rifle in the world. Defense attorney Jim Griffin, left, looks over evidence alongside Alex Murdaugh, center The husband of a Republican councilwoman in New Jersey, who was gunned down outside her home, wrote a birthday post for her a month ahead of time. Eze Kings honored his wife Eunice Dwumfour's birthday one month and a day ahead of her 31st birthday after she was found dead in her car on Wednesday evening around 7.22pm. On Thursday, he wrote: '4th March is your birthday happy glorious birthday in addy my love.' He posted professional photos where Dwumfour's wedding ring was visible throughout many of the images. The pair married in November. Investigators told ABC 7 that they are digging into her husband's ties to a church in Nigeria, among other things. The mother also reportedly spoke with her shooter moments before she was shot dead, but no suspects have yet been named. NJ councilwoman Eunice Dwumfour posing for a photo with her husband Eze Kings who is a pastor in Nigeria NJ councilwoman Eunice Dwumfour with her husband on their wedding day On Thursday, he wrote: '4th March is your birthday happy glorious birthday in addy my love' The Republican mother-of-one was found with multiple gunshot wounds and pronounced dead at the scene. Witnesses claim that the suspected gunman was spotted racing away from the Camelot at La Mer apartment complex, and a 911 call was placed at 7.22pm. Authorities say that the councilwoman, who worked for a Nigerian-based church group, was the intended target but have not given a motive. Friends of the politician said the killing could have been racially motivated as the couple lived in 'clan land.' 'We all suggested that she doesnt move down to that part of Jersey we call that "clan land," the friend, who asked to remain anonymous, told the Post. 'That was a hit. That was an assassination.' Another friend, Amos Martey, 52, of Ghana, told the Post: 'I believe color played a role. I believe because shes a minority. It might be related to her job I might be wrong, but thats how I feel. It breaks my heart.' Her white SUV was seen being removed from the scene by authorities in the early hours of the morning. Family members told USA Today that she lived at the property with her 12-year-old daughter from a previous relationship. Her sister Priscilla said: 'She was always happy, very humble and had respect.' Currently, there have been no arrests in the case, with Sayreville Police and Middlesex County officials investigating the incident. Friends of the councilwoman paid tribute to her as an 'amazing friend' who 'loved god.' Detective Juan Rodriguez and Pastor Doctor Nelia Rodriguez posted online saying: 'I just saw her this morning at the store. 'I remember saying to her I'll see you at the HRC meeting tomorrow not knowing tonight was going to be the end of her life. The Republican mother-of-one was found with multiple gunshot wounds and pronounced dead at the scene on Wednesday Eunice Dwumfour with her husband and loved ones on their wedding day just months before she was shot FBI are now investigating after Republican councilwoman Eunice Dwumfour, 30, was gunned down in her SUV while driving was shot SEVEN times in the face - as friend says it was a 'personal attack' The windscreen of her car was covered as emergency services raced toth the scene of the shooting at 7.22pm 'I can't stop crying. She was 30 years young and full of life. You will be missed my dear, precious friend.' A friend told DailyMail.com that she and her family had just returned from Nigeria on a church trip - describing her as 'bubbly and nice.' Dwumfour was a Certified Business Analyst and Scrum Professional for Fire Congress Fellowship Inc. and a part-time EMT. She graduated from William Paterson University and served as a Director of Churches for the Nigerian-based Champions Royal Assembly. In addition, she ousted the sitting Democrat in the Borough of Sayreville in November 2021, in a shock election win, and was not up for reelection until 2024. In a statement, Sayreville Mayor Victoria Kilpatrick said: 'The community is shocked and saddened at the loss of Eunice Dwumfour, who was a dedicated member of our Borough Council who was truly committed to serve all of our residents. No suspects have been named, investigators told ABC 7 that they are digging into her husband's ties to a church in Nigeria, among other things The mother also reportedly spoke with her shooter moments before she was shot dead 'The fact that she was taken from us by a despicable criminal act makes this incident all the more horrifying.' The mayor said that she believes that law enforcement 'will bring this fast-moving investigation to a quick and successful conclusion and look forward to the identification, arrest, and successful prosecution of the person responsible.' Sayreville Republican Chair Karen Bailey Bebert added: 'We remember Eunice for how she lived, not for how she died. 'She was the embodiment of Sayreville, living the American Dream, overcoming challenges with grit and a smile. 'And always giving of time and love to others. She embodied Sayreville and will be terribly missed by all who were fortunate enough to know her.' Governor of New Jersey Phil Murphy added that he was 'stunned' by her murder and branded it an 'act of gun violence.' Jill Biden on Friday brought pizza to the crew of the USS Gabrielle Giffords, served dessert to military kids and talked about her recent skin cancer scare as she urged people to get annual screenings. The first lady had a packed schedule on the first day of her three-day trip to California, which focused on her favorite causes: her Joining Forces program and the Bidens' Cancer Moonshot initiative. She'll cap it off with an appearance at Grammy Awards on Sunday night. She arrived in San Diego on Friday afternoon to visit a cancer clinic ahead of World Cancer Day, which is on Saturday. The cancer fight is personal to the Biden family. The first lady recently had a skin cancer scare of her own, having Mohs surgery to remove lesions on her eyelids and chest. She was subsequently pronounced cancer free by the White House doctor. She addressed the issue for the first time on Friday and used her experience to urge people to get cancer screenings of their own. 'Cancer touches us all - the Bidens are no exception. You know, I've lost several family members to cancer. And, actually I just recently had a bout with cancer myself that I've just experienced,' she said. Jill Biden, center right, speaks with Cmdr. Phillip Herndl, commanding officer of USS Gabrielle Giffords, during a tour of the ship President Joe Biden and Jill Biden restarted their Cancer Moonshot initiative when they entered the White House. It has the goal of reducing the cancer death rate by half within 25 years and improving the lives of people with cancer and cancer survivors. Their son Beau Biden died of brain cancer in 2015. But Jill Biden began her advocacy in 1993, when four of her friends were diagnosed with breast cancer. 'Really early detection is the key and a lot of cancers, a lot of cancers are curable,' she noted. 'And people don't need to be scared like they - I mean, you're always scared when you hear the word cancer but they don't need to be afraid like people were 10 years ago, because now things have advanced so far.' She then made a stop at the San Diego Naval Base to bring pizza to the crew members of the USS Gabrielle Giffords. Biden was headed to a dinner with the crew and their families but wanted to bring food to those who were on duty and couldn't make it. She switched her high heels for snazzy blue sneakers so she could climb the ladders as she toured the littoral combat ship. The ship was named after former Rep. Gabby Giffords, a survivor of gun violence, and is the third Navy ship to be named after a woman. Jill Biden brought pizza to the sailors on the USS Gabrielle Gifford Jill Biden, at a cancer clinic in San Diego, talked about her own recent skin cancer scare to urge people to get their screenings Jill Biden visited the crew of the USS Gabrielle Giffords She also served dessert to military families Biden attended its christening ceremony in Alabama in 2015, where she broke a champagne bottle on the bow. 'I had that bottle in my hand and was just praying it was going to break,' she said of the ceremony. She said she became an honorary member of the crew that day: 'It's a privilege to call you my community, my military family and it's wonderful to be here with all of you today.' She described Gabby Giffords as 'a woman who never stops fighting with courage and resilience.' And she mentioned her own military connections - her father served in the Navy and the Bidens' son Beau who served in the Army National Guard. She also manned the dessert table - serving goodies to the military families. There were giant chocolate chip cookies, yellow and chocolate cake, mini cupcakes and fruit. She paused in her food serving to take photos with people who asked. She took a photo with two girls who went to Villinova - which is where Biden got her masters. They made the V for Villinovia sign in the pic. Annie Rafferty, who was in that photo, is the navigator for the USS Gabrielle Giffords. The first lady also posed with several children and their parents, including fourth-month old daughter Ellison, who dressed in an adorable sailor outfit. Jill Biden takes a photo with two girls who went to Villinova - which is where Biden got her masters. They made the V for Villinovia sign in the pic. Annie Rafferty, who is to Biden's left, is the navigator for the USS Gabrielle Giffords Jill Biden arrived in San Diego on Friday to start a three-day trip to California Jill Biden talks to military families as she handed out dessert Jill Biden christened the USS Gabrielle Giffords in 2015 (her seated left); Gabby Giffords stands next to her husband Mark Kelly at the podium On Saturday, Biden will visit the Steven A. Cohen Military Family Clinic at Veterans Village of San Diego. She'll cap off her trip by presenting at the Grammys on Sunday. Other presenters include Viola Davis, Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson, Billy Crystal, James Corden, Olivia Rodrigo and Cardi B. She is not the only first lady to appear at the Grammy Awards. Michelle Obama made a surprise appearance at the Grammys in 2019 and, a year later, won for best spoken word album for the audiobook version of her memoir, 'Becoming.' And Hillary Clinton won a Grammy in 1997 for best spoken word album for her book 'It Takes a Village.' Comedian Trevor Noah who is hosting this Sunday's Grammy Awards from Crypto.com Arena in downtown Los Angeles. The ceremony will include performances by Harry Styles, Bad Bunny, Mary J. Blige, Sam Smith, Lizzo, Brandi Carlile, Luke Combs and Steve Lacy. A wife has opened up on the time her conspiracy theorist husband threatened to leave her if she ever got the Covid vaccine. The Western Australian woman, who asked to remain anonymous, said her husband was introduced to the world of conspiracies by a relative five years ago. He spiralled down a dark rabbit hole where he was exposed to ridiculous theories that included the Holocaust being a hoax and 9/11 an inside job by the government. The husband then joined an anti-vaxxer cult during the Covid pandemic and refused to allow his wife to get the vaccine. A wife has opened up on the time her conspiracy theorist husband threatened to leave her if she ever got the Covid vaccine (stock image) 'He even threatened me with divorce if I got vaccinated I was terribly upset but being stubborn I quietly went and got vaxxed anyway,' she told news.com.au. The wife revealed she had been subjected to a year of emotional abuse as her husband took control of every aspect of her life. 'Last year, he tried to stop me watching TV and the world news and he wouldn't let me buy newspapers. 'He tried to control me and if I was watching the world news, he'd stand at the door and scream 'sheeple' over and over again to block out the announcer.' The wife said her husband met twice a week with the conspiracy theorist group. She was alarmed after discovering he had taken home a pamphlet warning doctors distributing the vaccine would be put on trial. 'To all medical practitioners, doctors, nurses and all involved in injecting a Covid-19 or mRNA vaccine,' the pamphlet read. 'I was just carrying out orders' is NOT a legal defence. You will be on trial for war crimes and you will be held accountable.' The pamphlet then lists a series of misinformation about the Covid vaccine including that it is 'experimental' and that it causes 'short' and 'longterm' damage. The wife has aired her concerns after learning that her husband and his conspiracy theorist friends visited a local gun club to learn how to 'protect themselves'. The husband then joined an anti-vaxxer cult during the Covid pandemic and refused to allow his wife to get the vaccine (stock image) His role models include the likes of Australian conspiracy theorist Riccardo Bosi, former US president Donald Trump and Russian leader Vladimir Putin. The wife said she was at her wit's end about what to do and couldn't believe the matter had gone so far, describing her husband as a smart man with a high IQ. She said she had cried on several occasions and that she was angry she didn't know what to do. The distraught wife said she feared her husband and friends would do something reckless as it 'would not take much to tip them over'. She said she could see similarities in their belief systems similar to the Train brothers who killed two police officers and a neighbour at a shootout in December. Nathaniel and Stacey Train along with Nathaniel's brother Gareth, murdered police constables Rachel McCrow, 29, and Matthew Arnold, 26, as well as neighbour Alan Dare, 58, at their Wiembilla property, 300km west of Brisbane. The trio of conspiracy theory fantasists were then killed in a firefight with specialist police later that same day. Gareth's online comments featured conspiracy material about Jesuits and vaccines, as well as claims high-profile shootings such as the Port Arthur massacre were hoaxes or 'false-flag' operations. A judge in Colombia has sparked alarm in the legal world by revealing that he used Artificial Intelligence site ChatGPT to help him decide a case involving an autistic child. Judge Juan Manuel Padilla Garcia, who presides over a tribunal in the Caribbean city of Cartagena, announced that he had used the system in his January 30 ruling. He was asked it to rule whether a health insurance company could deny paying fees for medical appointments, therapy and transportation for an autistic boy named Salvador, given his parents' limited income. Padilla - who ruled in favor of the boy, and against the health insurance, said he asked the bot: 'Is autistic minor exonerated from paying fees for their therapies?' among other questions. It answered: 'Yes, this is correct. According to the regulations in Colombia, minors diagnosed with autism are exempt from paying fees for their therapies.' Juan Manuel Padilla Garcia, a judge in Cartagena, said on January 30 he used ChatGPT to research his decision in a case involving an autistic child Padilla presides over this court in Cartagena - the Primero Laboral, or employment tribunal The judge argued that ChatGPT performs services previously provided by a secretary and did so 'in an organized, simple and structured manner' which could 'improve response times' in the justice system. Padilla told Blu Radio that the program helped judges, and was not a threat to the legal system. He said ChatGPT and other such programs could be useful to 'facilitate the drafting of texts'. But, he said, the system was 'not with the aim of replacing' judges. Padilla insisted that 'by asking questions to the application we do not stop being judges, thinking beings.' Padilla said he believes other judges will use ChatGPT for research, as he did ChatGPT is being used by millions of people worldwide to generate written answers ChatGPT uses artificial intelligence and reams of data from the internet to generate answers to questions posed by human users. Professor Juan David Gutierrez of Rosario University was among those to express incredulity at the judge's admission. Gutierrez, an expert in artificial intelligence regulation and governance, said he put the same questions to ChatGPT, and got different responses. 'It is certainly not responsible or ethical to use ChatGPT as intended by the judge in the ruling in question,' he wrote on Twitter. He called for urgent 'digital literacy' training for judges. Created by California-based company OpenAI, ChatGPT has taken the world by storm since its launch in November, with its ability to write essays, articles, poems and computer code in just seconds. Critics have raised fears it could be used for widespread cheating in schools and universities. OpenAI has cautioned that its tool can make mistakes. But Padilla said he believes other judges will follow suit. 'I suspect that many of my colleagues are going to join in this and begin to construct their rulings ethically with the help of artificial intelligence,' he said. The system has such promising capabilities that Microsoft recently announced a new 'multi-year, multi-billion-dollar investment' to grow the tech. The firm's backing of the artificial intelligence bot comes as it lays off 10,000 employees and experts warn AI is making well-paid workers increasingly vulnerable. Microsoft announced a 'multi-year, multi-billion-dollar investment' in ChatGPT as it moves to sack nearly five percent of its global workforce this month as 'tech wreck' sweeps Silicon Valley. Pictured: CEO Satya Nadella 'AI is replacing the white-collar workers', said Pengcheng Shi, an associate dean in the Department of Computing and Information Sciences at Rochester Institute of Technology. 'I don't think anyone can stop that. This is not crying wolf,' Shi told The New York Post. 'The wolf is at the door.' Since it was released for free to the public in November by company OpenAI, the chatbot caused a stir online and amassed close to a million users in its first week. The system is trained on a huge data set and is designed to continually improve itself, allowing it to generate answers to nearly any question. Through a simple text prompt, the tech has the ability to work through almost any problem it is faced with, with varying accuracy depending on its task. The tool passed several law school exams when University of Minnesota professors put it to the test, where it averaged a passing C+ grade on the student papers. In the law exam essay questions, the bot was able to accurately recite legal rules and correctly describe cases. ChatGPT also recently scored higher than many humans on an MBA exam at Penn's elite Wharton School, where it received a respectable B- grade. The professor who administered the test said the chatbot was able to do 'professional tasks' such as 'writing software code and preparing legal documents.' The tool's capabilities have led experts to warn the continually improving system could spell doom for numerous industries. Among the job fields that could soon become dominated by the artificial intelligence includes finance, graphic design and education. One industry that is in particular danger is tech and software design, a field that has already been rocked in recent times as Silicon Valley has undergone massive staff layoffs. Pengcheng Shi, an associate dean in the Department of Computing and Information Sciences at Rochester Institute of Technology, warned that the AI could cost white collar jobs The ChatGPT system is trained on a huge data set and is designed to continually improve itself, allowing it to generate answers to nearly any question Microsoft sacked nearly five percent of its workforce as 10,000 employees were left out of work this month at the same time the firm committed billions into the future of ChatGPT. 'We are announcing the third phase of our long-term partnership with OpenAI through a multiyear, multibillion dollar investment to accelerate AI breakthroughs to ensure these benefits are broadly shared with the world,' the company said in a statement. The new wave of funding comes after Microsoft already plowed a billion dollars into Open AI in 2019. Gil Luria, a technology strategist at finance firm D.A. Davidson, said the move showed the company was banking on AI to drive growth. 'It tells you a lot that within a week of announcing pretty substantial layoffs, Microsoft is also announcing a substantial investment in OpenAI,' Luria told Yahoo Finance. 'It tells you that that's where they think a lot of the future growth for Microsoft can come from, and that the technology that OpenAI is developing can drive meaningful improvements to a broad set of products for them.' A second Chinese spy balloon was spotted hovering over Latin America just hours after the Pentagon accused Beijing of using a similar balloon to spy on sensitive military sites in the US. Early reports indicated the surveillance craft was flying over Costa Rica, Colombia and Venezuela. Officials say the new balloon does not appear to be heading to America. The US was tracking another high-altitude Chinese balloon that was spotted flying over Missouri and sensitive areas of Montana - where nuclear warheads are siloed - prompting the military to take actions to prevent it from collecting intelligence. China insisted the balloon is an errant civilian airship used mainly for meteorological research that went off course due to winds. However, the US rejected that out of hand and Secretary of State Antony Blinken cancelled his high-stakes trip to Beijing, telling a senior Chinese diplomat that sending the balloon over the US was 'an irresponsible act'. A second Chinese spy balloon was reported flying over Latin America, with many taking photos of a balloon hovering above Venezuela (left). The sighting comes after a surveillance balloon was spotted flying Montana (right) The infographic shows the suspected paths of the two Chinese spy balloons spotted hovering over the west yesterday Pentagon Press Secretary Brig. Gen. Pat Ryder said reports showed 'a balloon transiting Latin America,' confirming last night that it was another Chinese surveillance balloon. 'We now assess it is another Chinese surveillance balloon,' Mr Ryder said. He declined to offer further information such as where it was spotted. The US actually had been tracking the first balloon since at least Tuesday, when President Joe Biden was first briefed, White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre told reporters. After passing the sensitive military sites in Montana, the balloon was moving south-east over the heartland of the central United States during the day and was expected to remain in US airspace for several days, officials said. According to three US officials, Mr Biden was initially inclined to order the surveillance balloon to be blown out of the sky, and a senior defence official said the US had prepared fighter jets, including F-22s, to shoot it down if ordered. Officials said defence secretary Lloyd Austin and general Mark Milley, chairman of the joint chiefs of staff, strongly advised Mr Biden against shooting down the balloon, warning that its size as big as three buses and considerable weight could create a debris field large enough to endanger Americans on the ground. A social media user shared this photo of the suspected Chinese spy balloon allegedly flying over Costa Rica yesterday The alleged Chinese spy balloon is pictured over Maracaibo, Venezuela yesterday The Chinese surveillance balloon is estimated to be about the width of three buses. The balloon is fitted with solar panels to power the on-board equipment, which could include long-range cameras and radar. It was traveling at an altitude of around 60,000ft on Friday afternoon, but the balloons can reach heights of around double that 'Explosion in the sky' above Billings Montana where Chinese spy balloon was spotted infiltrating US airspace: READ MORE HERE Video of the aftermath reveals a trail of smoke in the sky where the balloon was when flying over Billings, Montana, on Friday Advertisement The Pentagon also assessed that after unspecified US measures, the possibility of the balloon uncovering important information was not great. It was not the first time Chinese surveillance balloons have been tracked over US territory, including at least once during former president Donald Trump's administration, officials said. Even if it's not armed, the balloon poses a risk to the US, a former military leader has warned. Retired Army Gen. John Ferrari claimed the flight itself can be used to test America's ability to detect incoming threats and to find holes in the country's air defence warning system. It may also allow the Chinese to sense electromagnetic emissions that higher-altitude satellites can't detect, such as low-power radio frequencies that could help them understand how different US weapons systems communicate. He also said the Chinese may have sent the balloon 'to show us that they can do it, and maybe next time it could have a weapon. So now we have to spend money and time on it' developing defences. The discovery of the balloons dealt a new blow to already strained US-Chinese relations that have been in a downwards spiral for years over numerous issues. Still, US officials maintained that diplomatic channels remain open and Mr Blinken said he remained willing to travel to China 'when conditions allow'. 'We continue to believe that having open lines of communication is important,' he said. A US State Department official said Mr Blinken and deputy secretary of state Wendy Sherman had both protested to the top official at the Chinese Embassy on Wednesday, a day before the Pentagon announced the discovery of the balloon. A US defense official said the balloon is the size of several buses - but doesn't pose an immediate threat to Americans. The balloon, pictured over Montana, has been tracked for several days but officials decided not to shoot it down over fears about debris. China claims it is a civilian airship used for meteorological research The Pentagon said the balloon was floating at around 60,000 feet on Friday afternoon The aircraft has also sparked concerns that China could have deliberately sent the balloon to spy on US bases. Montana Senator Steve Daines warned that the balloon might've been targeting his state's nuclear missile fields. 'Montana plays a vital national security role by housing nuclear missile silos at Malmstrom AFB,' Daines wrote to the Department of Defense. 'Given the increased hostility and destabilization around the globe aimed at the United States and our allies, I am alarmed by the fact that this spy balloon was able to infiltrate the airspace of our country and Montana.' The incident heightened tensions between Washington and Beijing, with the US cancelling Mr Blinken's long-planned trip to China. The trip was to feature a landmark meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping, a trip President Biden and Xi announced during their own high-stakes summit meeting in Bali in November. 'We do acknowledge, we note the PRC statement of regret,' a senior State Department said yesterday when announcing the decision. 'But again, the presence of this balloon in our airspace is clearly unacceptable and a clear violation of our sovereignty. And our clear assessment was that under these current conditions, it wouldn't be constructive to visit Beijing at this time.' Mr Blinken, who had been due to depart Washington for Beijing yesterday, claims he told senior Chinese diplomat Wang Yi in a phone call that sending the balloon over the US was 'an irresponsible act and that (China's) decision to take this action on the eve of my visit is detrimental to the substantive discussions that we were prepared to have'. China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement this morning: 'In actuality, the US and China have never announced any visit. The US making any such announcement is their own business, and we respect that.' According to Beijing, Mr Wang said China 'has always strictly followed international law, we do not accept any groundless speculation and hype. Faced with unexpected situations, both parties need to keep calm, communicate in a timely manner, avoid misjudgements and manage differences'. A high-altitude Chinese balloon that was spotted flying over Missouri and sensitive areas of Montana - where nuclear warheads are siloed - yesterday, prompting the military to take actions to prevent it from collecting intelligence A model of the path the balloon caught hovering over the US is thought to have taken, created by meteorologist Dan Satterfield, showed it originated in central China China's foreign ministry said the balloon 'seriously deviated from the scheduled route' and expressed regret that 'the airship strayed into the United States due to force majeure' and claimed it was used for scientific research 'such as meteorology' something the Pentagon disputed. The detection of the balloon, which triggered alarm in the White House and the Pentagon, adds to a series of recent controversies that have further strained the tense relationship between China and the United States. Beijing had urged calm while it established the 'facts' before a statement yesterday morning said the balloon was a weather research device that had 'deviated far from its planned course'. The Chinese foreign ministry said it regretted that the balloon had mistakenly entered US airspace. Republican leaders and former President Donald Trump had led calls for the balloon to be shot down. The Chinese surveillance balloon is estimated to be about the width of three buses. The balloon is fitted with solar panels to power the on-board equipment, which could include long-range cameras and radar. It was traveling at an altitude of around 60,000ft on Friday afternoon, but the balloons can reach heights of around double that China's spy balloon caught hovering over Montana missile silo could be 120ft helium-powered airship that's equipped with surveillance cameras and radar: READ MORE A missile alert facility near Belt, Montana. Officials feared the spy balloon could be used to gather intelligence about nuclear sites in the state as it floated overhead Advertisement F-22 fighter jets were mobilized to track the device as it hovered over Montana, which borders Canada, on Wednesday. Analysts said the balloon is about the size of 'three buses' and could be fitted with high-tech equipment including cameras, sensors and radar. US officials had said that the balloon is large enough that destroying it would rain down debris, risking the safety of people on the ground. After it was spotted flying over, the balloon was tracked further south on Friday afternoon flying over Missouri. Images posted by the National Weather Service in Kansas City, MO, showed an unidentified balloon flying over the state which is believed to be the Chinese surveillance device. A report from the crew of a Cessna Citation private jet on Friday afternoon said they observed a 'derelict balloon adrift' while cruising at 43,000 feet near Kansas City. They said the balloon was floating at around 50,000 feet, which could cause safety concerns among aviation officials. Military and defense officials previously said the balloon was floating at around 60,000 feet and doesn't pose a threat to civilians or civil aviation. A Pentagon spokesman also noted the aircraft could remain aloft over the US for 'a few days,' extending uncertainty about where it will go. CIA Director William Burns pictured on Thursday at Washington's Georgetown University, where he called China the 'biggest geopolitical challenge' facing the United States Pictured: A map showing China's likely tactics when it comes to an invasion of Taiwan China's President Xi Jinping has ordered his military to be ready to invade Taiwan by 2027, the director of the CIA has warned. Pictured: Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) soldiers during military training at Pamir Mountains in Kashgar, northwestern China's Xinjiang region The news initially broke as CIA Director William Burns was speaking at an event at Washington's Georgetown University, where he called China the 'biggest geopolitical challenge' facing the United States. Elaborating on China's readiness for an invasion of Taiwan, Burns added: 'Now, that does not mean that he's decided to conduct an invasion in 2027, or any other year, but it's a reminder of the seriousness of his focus and his ambition. 'Our assessment at CIA is that I wouldn't underestimate President Xi's ambitions with regard to Taiwan,' he said, adding that the Chinese leader was likely 'surprised and unsettled' and trying to draw lessons from the 'very poor performance' of the Russian military and its weapons systems in Ukraine. Russia and China signed a 'no limits' partnership last February shortly before Russian forces invaded Ukraine, and their economic links have boomed as Russia's connections with the West have shrivelled. The Russian invasion had fuelled concerns in the West of China making a similar move on Taiwan, a democratic island Beijing says is its territory. China has refrained from condemning Russia's operation against Ukraine, but it has been careful not to provide the sort of direct material support which could provoke Western sanctions like those imposed on Moscow. 'I think it's a mistake to underestimate the mutual commitment to that partnership, but it's not a friendship totally without limits,' Burns said. An Indiana priest claims that he was healed of brain cancer after making a religious pilgrimage to Lourdes, France in June 2022. In a video posted to YouTube, Fr. John Hollowell states how he was diagnosed with a brain tumor in February 2020 and underwent surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation to treat it. Despite the treatments, the tumor was starting to grow back, yet following a visit to Lourdes, Hollowell says that he felt physically stronger and cognitively improved upon his return to the U.S. An MRI conducted in November 2022 later showed that the tumor, which had been removed following surgery, may never grow back - and that all that was visible was scar tissue. Before his diagnosis, Hollowell, who serves the Archdiocese of Indianapolis, had offered up his own pain as a form of redemptive suffering for victims of clerical sexual abuse, with approximately 170 survivors of Catholic clergy abuse reaching out to him. A priest from Indiana, Fr. John Hollowell claims to have been cured of a brain tumor after making a pilgrimage to Lourdes, France in June 2022 'I was able to take all the names in with me to that surgery,' he explained. 'So I made the video mostly for the victim survivors of Catholic clergy sexual abuse, just to let them know that I had been healed.' He says that while he was willing to make the sacrifice, he claims he realized that God used his suffering to help him the most. 'When the scandals of 2018 broke out, most of you know that they have affected me deeply, as they have most of the church,' Hollowell wrote in a blog following his diagnosis. 'I prayed in 2018 that if there was some suffering I could undertake on behalf of all the victims, some cross I could carry, I would welcome that. I feel like this is that cross, and I embrace it willingly,' he stated. He also notes that the anniversary of his diagnosis, February 11th, is also the anniversary of the first apparition of Our Lady of Lourdes to St. Bernadette Soubirous - a French nun who lived in the 1800s whose visions of the Virgin Mary ultimately led to the founding of the shrine of Lourdes. 'I just wanted to make a video really quickly to let everybody know that I actually was healed of my brain tumor in Lourdes,' Hollowell stated. 'I had a pretty negative MRI about two-and-a-half months before I left for Lourdes. 'The MRI showed that [the tumor] was starting to grow back The MRI that I had also had found a tumor on my pituitary gland, as well,' he said. 'Like Naaman the Syrian in our first reading, who washed and was cleansed from leprosy in the Jordan, I washed in the river at Lourdes and was cured and like the leper who returns to give thanks, I want to publicly thank Jesus for healing me,' he wrote. Lourdes is a well-known pilgrimage site for many believers and has had 70 healings recognized as miraculous by the Catholic Church 'I want to thank Jesus for the gift not just of my healing but also the gift of the tumor surgeries, radiation and chemo as well. 'Almost nothing in my life is the same since my surgeries, radiation and chemo,' he also wrote, 'and I have realized that all those differences in my life since the surgeries, radiation and chemo have been blessings.' Hollowell says his cognitive ability also improved following his trip to France. 'I felt a lot stronger when I got back from Lourdes. Friends, family and parishioners told me that I looked a lot healthier,' he told Fox News. 'When I got back from Lourdes, I could preach without a prepared text again.' he explained, noting how he had been relying on written passages before his pilgrimage. 'I was OK if I died I was willing to make the sacrifice for victims of Catholic clergy abuse. But I thought, 'Well, if I go to Lourdes, and I'm healed there, then that might have an impact on some of my fallen-away family and friends,'' he said on video. Dr. Marc Siegel, a professor of medicine at NYU Langone Medical Center is not altogether surprised at his good news given that Hollowell had a 74 percent five-year survival rate. 'I believe in the power of prayer, and I believe in miracle cures and I believe in Lourdes but with this particular tumor, there is about a 74% five-year survival rate, depending on what grade it is,' Dr. Siegel explained. 'And Hollowell had surgery and chemotherapy, so it's not surprising to me that the tumor is gone.' Siegel also said that he did not have 'the most severe of all brain tumors,' and that it 'could be cured.' 'I don't think it's all Lourdes in this case. But I do think doctors have the hands of God that's a well-known saying. Great surgery, great chemo and the power of prayer.' George Santos was caught admitting he 'f**ked up' and 'lied to everyone' in a secret recording released by a wannabe staffer just days after it was revealed the politician claimed he produced a Broadway play. The New York politician, 34, reportedly told donors during his congressional campaign in 2021 that he produced Spider-man: Turn Off The Dark, which ran from 2011 to 2014, but lead producer Michael Cohl disputed these claims. Santos had been living in Brazil for a portion of 2011 and had worked at Dish Network between 2011 and 2012 as a customer service representative, according to Bloomberg. The falsity is just another lie for Santos to add to his mountain of them. Now, his unpaid volunteer Derek Myers, 30, who is also a journalist, has exposed him admitting to lying in a secret recording taken on Monday. Scroll down for video George Santos was caught admitting he 'f**ked up' and 'lied to everyone' in a secret recording released by a wannabe staffer Myers, who claimed he was promised to be taken on as a staff member in Santos' office, was let go from his DC position on Monday. Early on in the recording, which Myers handed over to Talking Point Memo (TPM), the glorified intern bluntly asked Santos if they were 'firing' him. Santos had seemed taken aback, saying: 'I'm sorry? You're not hired [yet].' Myers was pulled into the Congressman's office to discuss his potential employment with Santos and his Chief of Staff Charley Lovett, where he was told to 'stop going to Colombia for your diluted Botox' and complimented the young man's thrifted tie. During that conversation, Santos admitted to Myers that he had lied about his background, stating: 'I lied to him [Lovett] like I lied to everyone else, and he still forgave me and gave me a second shot, unlike some other people right [now]. 'So I trust him tenfold more. I trust his judgment more than my own judgment,' he continued. 'That's why he's he's my chief of staff, right, I wouldn't be here in this chair if it wasn't for him because you know how many times during the campaign he stopped me from making stupid decisions?' Derek Myers, 30, secretly recorded his meeting with Santos and his Chief of Staff Charley Lovett on Monday, where he caught Santos saying: ''I lied to him [Lovett] like I lied to everyone else' Santos also joked Myers could go to federal prison for seven years for 'recording in this building,' but he seemed unaware his volunteer was actually recording him. Myers had not informed either man that he was recording the conversation. DC is a one-party consent state. 'I have never recorded,' Myers can be heard on the tape. Santos, who seemed unaware of the recording, joked: 'Have fun at your peril!' The subject of wiretapping was brought up due to Myers being previously charged with it when his Ohio-based newspaper Scioto Valley Guardian obtained a court recording despite the defendant opting out of being recorded. It was also recently revealed that Santos claimed he was a producer of Broadway play Spider-man: Turn Off The Dark, but lead producer Michael Cohl (pictured) denied this The ill-fated play was on Broadway from 2011 to 2014. Its producer has denied that Santos was ever involved Myers, who was in Colombia getting Botox when the court recording was taped, said he obtained the recording from someone who had been in the courtroom that day. Due to the gravity of the court case, where a man was being charged with eight murders, Myers decided to publish the recording and was later charged with wiretapping. 'He killed eight people in the middle of their sleep, a whole family. We felt at that time that the public should be allowed to hear that testimony,' Myers defended himself. 'I can see that it's like concerning for you guys because you're like: "Oh, now can we trust this guy?"' Myers said he didn't even know how to 'wiretap.' Santos, however, said it was 'not concerning to us, its concerning to this institution.' 'Im thinking to myself: "Im a threat and concern to this institution?" George Santos, youre George Santos!' Myers told TPM. Myers was officially let go from Santos' office on Wednesday by Lovett and Santos' chief of staff confirmed it was due to the concerns over the Ohio case, the young journalist told TPM. Myers also claimed Santos had placed 'his hand on my left leg, near my knee' before proceeding to 'take his hand and move it down my leg into my inner thigh and proceeded to touch my groin' during his short tenure at the DC office Myers did, however, beg for his job back a day later, but only spoke with Santos' Chief of Operations Vish Barra, who helped get him the job. He said he had left behind the thrifted tie Santos had complimented in their meeting on Monday and a mug that said 'deny everything.' On Friday, the self-proclaimed media mogul filed a police report with the Capitol Police for sexual harassment, he announced on Twitter. He also filed a complaint with The Office of Congressional Ethics against Santos. 'As stated in the filings, my complaint pertains to violations of House Ethics in which I was an unpaid volunteer performing staff duties with the promise of employment and compensation, only to be released after several days of work without compensation,' he wrote in a lengthy Twitter thread. 'Additionally, my filings detail sexual harassment I endured in the office of the Congressman. These matters will hopefully be appropriately addressed by the police and the Ethics Committee, respectively in due time.' Myers claimed his title was labeled as 'volunteer' until his staff paperwork had been fully processed through the payroll department. Despite the sexual harassment, the journalist begged for his job back on Thursday but was denied. He said he only talked to Santos Chief of Operations Vish Barra (right), whom he left a thrifted tie and a meg that said 'deny everything' to give to Santos He also claimed on January 25 Santos had asked him if he 'had a Grindr profile' and had 'insisted I sit next to him on the small sofa.' He also claimed Santos had placed 'his hand on my left leg, near my knee' before proceeding to 'take his hand and move it down my leg into my inner thigh and proceeded to touch my groin.' Myers went on to claim in the letter - that he also posted to Twitter - that Santos had told him: 'My husband is out of town tonight if you want to come over.' Santos had claimed during his campaign to be married and that he lived with his husband on Long Island. However, the Daily Beast could not find a marriage record in New York, nor did the politician ever appear on the campaign trail with said husband. He was also not seen wearing a wedding ring since arriving to Congress. However, Santos had been previously married to a woman, whom he divorced in 2019. Santos' lawyer Joseph W. Murray declined to comment to DailyMail.com on the allegations. A business owner has claimed a man armed with a hammer attempted to walk into his business in Alice Springs in the latest chapter of the crime wave gripping the Northern Territory town. The business owner, who has not been named, says four police cars attended the scene on Elder Street 'quickly', and chased the man. However, the furious man complained the suspect was not arrested or taken into custody. He claimed the man had his hammer confiscated but was free to go, much to the alarm of the 'scared' four women working at his business. Daily Mail Australia has contacted Northern Territory Police for comment. In a video shared by community group Action for Alice Springs, the business owner claims he employs three women and one girl and was 'disgraced' by the rising crime levels in Alice Springs. 'A guy has walked into site tried to walk inside our business. 'We have four female staff, he's tried to walk inside our business with a hammer. 'This place is totally, totally ridiculous. 'Police were called. They attended quickly. They had four waggons. He explained that cops chased the man up the hill and took his hammer, before letting him go. 'He's allowed to walk the streets. A man has claimed an armed attacker attempted to walk into his business in Alice Springs while swinging a hammer in the latest shocking claim of violence from the Northern Territory town 'Meanwhile, on my way here to rush here we've got a random breath testing exercise out through the gap. 'This place is so unsafe and ridiculous, it's unbelievable. Meanwhile, we've got a crime crisis here. 'You don't even take someone that walks into a business with a hammer. Don't even take him into custody.' 'I won't apologise for sticking up for my staff and for the people of Alice Springs, it's become an absolute disgrace what's happening here. Despite violence and crime being part of Alice Springs life, the situation has worsened in the ten months since the Northern Territory Government lifted alcohol restrictions Despite violence and crime being part of Alice Springs life, the situation has worsened in the ten months since the Northern Territory Government lifted alcohol restrictions. The campaign by Action for Alice campaigner Darren Clarke gained national headlines, forcing Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to make a flying visit and impose partial alcohol bans. During a brief visit to the town last week, Mr Albanese announced new alcohol restrictions and promised $48.8 million over two years for programs to address the crime problem. Measures implemented included a ban on takeaway alcohol sales on Monday and Tuesday as well as limits on bottle shop opening hours. A newly-elected Los Angeles city councillor who campaigned on a pledge to abolish the police has been left red-faced after a staff member rang the LAPD to request protection for his broken-down car. Hugo Soto-Martinez, a trade union activist and member of the Democratic Socialist party, was elected in December. Soto-Martinez campaigned against 'armed militias occupying our neighborhoods,' saying that the existing policing system was 'completely corrupt, immoral, and needs to be changed drastically.' On Thursday night, a member of his team placed a call to the LAPD just before 10pm requesting assistance, because Soto-Martinez's white Lexus had broken down. Hugo Soto-Martinez's office said the newly-elected council member was 'very upset' that a member of his team called the LAPD to protect his broken-down car Soto-Martinez's staff requested 'extra patrol' for the expensive car 'Extra patrol throughout the night for parked white Lexus belonging to councilmember,' the LAPD request noted. 'Veh broken down.' Angelenos immediately seized on the irony, noting that Soto-Martinez campaigned on a platform of abolishing the LAPD. On a candidate questionnaire, he ticked 'yes' to defunding the police, removing police from schools, and defunding the California Highway Patrol. 'When I say I consider myself an abolitionist, I want to clarify that I believe in the eventual goal of abolishing the current system of policing, and replacing it with something focused on the actual root causes of crime,' he wrote on the questionnaire. 'In short, I believe in caring for our communities, instead of violently oppressing our neighbors.' He advocated redistributing existing funds, noting: 'There are also opportunities to be had in connecting the redistribution of police money to other public sector unions'. Soto-Martinez's white Lexus is seen parked outside the offices Soto-Martinez, in a candidate questionnaire, confirmed he wanted to defund and ultimately abolish the police 'Until we have properly funded the things that actually stop crime, instead of spending all our money throwing guys with guns at social problems, there are some steps we can take to remove armed officers from all calls that do not present an immediate threat of gun violence. 'The current system is completely corrupt, immoral, and needs to be changed drastically. 'Police officers are trained to be warriors and go into the streets to deal with issues that should be reserved for social workers.' Soto-Martinez, asked about the request, was furious. 'It's come to our attention that a deputy staffer had some contact with the LAPD regarding his personal vehicle,' a spokesman told Fox 11. 'We are investigating this matter internally and will be taking appropriate action. 'Council Member Soto-Martinez is very upset as this does not reflect the values of transparency, responsible governance and being accountable to the community that elected him.' This is the extraordinary moment a shop owner turned the tables on would-be thieves with a smoke bomb after they attempted to steal from him. Peter Kordos, the owner of Kinglake Foodworks, in Kinglake, Victoria installed Smoke Shield technology last year after his store was previously robbed. And a year on, it seems the $7000 investment paid off as thieves were left shocked when smoke exploded in their face this week. This is the extraordinary moment a shop-owner turned the tables on would-be thieves by alarming them with a smoke bomb after they attempted to steal from him The group, who wore balaclavas and gloves, had only been in the empty store for a few seconds when they attempted to take cigarettes. But after reaching for the goods, they shop was filled up with a thick cascade of smoke. An alarm went off and strobe lights blared which saw the robbers run off scared. '[They] get their hopes up, they can get in and once they're in they can't see or hear each other,' store owner Peter Kordos told Channel Nine. The group, who wore balaclavas and gloves, had only been in the empty store for a few seconds when they attempted to take cigarettes Peter Kordos, the owner of Kinglake Foodworks, in Kinglake, Victoria installed Smoke Shield technology last year after his store was robbed 'Hopefully they tell their friends that it's not an easy target.' The shopkeeper added it felt 'fantastic' to have caught them in the act. 'Thank god we had it,' he said. 'It was extremely satisfying.' The men have not been caught. Russia has blamed Ukraine for the shelling, which hit a large industrial plant Moscow reported early today a major attack on a plant in its Belgorod region bordering Ukraine. Video showed a spectacular blaze at a factory which makes parts for Vladimir Putin's bridge linking Russia to annexed Crimea. Reports said flames rose 170ft into the night sky. Russian accounts said there had been a shelling attack while witnesses also said they heard gunfire. The factory fire broke out this morning in Borisovka in the west of the Belgorod Oblast British tanks to defend Ukraine Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has told President Volodymyr Zelensky that he is determined to ensure Britain's promised military aid reaches Ukraine as quickly as possible. In a call on Saturday, he said that Ukrainian troops in the UK have begun training this week on Challenger 2 main battle tanks, which Britain has agreed to supply to the government in Kyiv. A Downing Street spokesman said: 'Both leaders agreed that it was vital that international partners accelerated their assistance to Ukraine to help seize the opportunity to push Russian forces back, as well as looking at how they could support the long-term capability of Ukraine's armed forces. 'The greatest weapon in Ukraine's arsenal was the collective international unity in support of Ukraine, the leaders agreed.' Advertisement An oil depot at or near the plant evidently exploded with fire damage spreading to the Borisovsky Bridge Metal Structures Plant. 'At night, a civilian industrial facility in Borisovka was attacked by the Armed Forces of Ukraine,' said regional governor Vyacheslav Gladkov. He said 'no one was injured, the company's employees were evacuated in time. 'Now everything is being done to ensure that the damage is minimal.' A report from Telegram channel Horizontal Russia said: 'A large fire started at the plant due to shelling in the Belgorod region. 'The shells hit the territory of an industrial plant in the Borisovsky district.' Windows in the vicinity smashed by the force of the blast. Belgorod has reported dozens of attacks from Ukraine after Putin launched his illegal invasion. Other reports said there had been a shift at work in the plant when the attack came, adding there was no word about victims. The same site had been attacked in May last year, according to accounts. Ukraine last year attacked the Crimean Bridge, crossing the Kerch Strait, causing serious damage to the structure. The Belgorod region plant supplies metal structures for this and other bridges. Red skies over Borisovka, Russia, as an oil depot near the plant after shelling of the region The mother of a 14-year-old girl who was killed by a speeding driver wants all drivers who cause deaths to be banned for life. Courtney Ellis was hit and killed by Brandon Turton, who was travelling at speeds of up to 93mph in a 30mph zone in September 2020. Liverpool Crown Court heard in September last year that the schoolgirl, from Haydock, died instantly after being hit by the 21-year-old's Renault Megane on Blackbrook Road in St Helens, Merseyside. Courtney's mother, Angela Burke, now wants anyone convicted of causing death by dangerous driving to be subject to a lifetime driving ban, after she learned that her daughter's killer would be able to get back behind the wheel after serving a seven-year driving ban, along with a six year and nine month prison sentence. Courtney Ellis (pictured) was hit and killed by Brandon Turton, 21, who was travelling at speeds up to 93mph in a 30mph zone in September 2020 Liverpool Crown Court heard in September last year that Courtney (pictured), from Haydock, died instantly after being hit by the 21-year-old's Renault Megane on Blackbrook Road in St Helens, Merseyside Ms Burke told the ECHO: 'I don't want her death to have been for nothing. Imagine seeing the killer who is responsible for taking your child away from you in a horrific way driving around like nothing had happened, it's like rubbing it into my face. 'Driving is one of life's luxuries and it comes with rules and regulations so if this is abused in this way then this luxury should be taken away from them for life. All I have left of my Courtney is a box of ashes, photos, her clothes, some of her hair, her handprint from the night she passed.' She added: 'I miss my girl so much and I really need to succeed in this for her if it's the only thing I can do for her and for me and my family and for future families that unfortunately may go through this too.' Brandon Turton (pictured), 21, crashed into the teen shortly after 9.45pm on September 19, 2020, before the youngster's mother discovered her 'lifeless' body while passing the crash scene as she drove home from work Sharing some of the impact that Courtney's death had on her family, Ms Burke said: 'My oldest baby witnessed it and she suffers daily with PTSD symptoms and with her mental health, I wish I could take her pain away but I can't, I can only be there for her despite my daily pain and heartbreak too. I just want to do at least one important thing so that future families don't have to go through the same problem as me and my family.' A petition to impose a lifetime ban on killer drivers set up by Ms Burke has now received almost 12,000 signatures, with a target of reaching 100,000. In September last year, Ms Burke confronted the killer driver at court as he was sentenced to almost seven years in prison, telling him: 'I will never forgive you.' Mr Turton instantly killed Courtney when he crashed into the teen shortly after 9.45pm on September 19, 2020, before the youngster's mother discovered her 'lifeless' body while passing the crash scene as she drove home from work. Ben Jones, prosecuting, told Liverpool Crown Court how Mr Turton, of Newton-le-Willows, had been 'showing off or driving in anger', having made unsuccessful attempts to woo a female passenger. Courtney, an aspiring midwife, had been hanging out with friends and her now 18-year-old sister Morgan when she ran across the road before being fatally hit by Mr Turton's vehicle, sending her 'flying through the air'. Pictured: Courtney Ellis with her sister Morgan and mother Angela Burke Courtney's mother said: 'I don't want her death to have been for nothing. Imagine seeing the killer who is responsible for taking your child away from you in a horrific way driving around like nothing had happened, it's like rubbing it into my face' Mr Turton, who had admitted causing death by dangerous driving, cried as he was told his sentence. At sentencing, Courtney's mother described the devastating moment she realised that her daughter had been involved in the fatal collision. Ms Burke told Mr Turton: 'The night that you killed my 14-year-old daughter was the most horrific experience I have ever had to go through. It was truly a parent's worst nightmare. 'Having to see your lifeless child's body broken is indescribable. I was on my way home from work when I approached the scene of the incident.' She added: 'It was clear that something serious had happened, with police everywhere. I recall feeling sad for the people involved. Little did I know my own child was lying in the road. I was not there when she needed me most.' Ms Burke said that after passing the scene, she received a call to say that Courtney had been run over, adding that it was at that point she realised she had just driven past the crash site. The grief-stricken mother-of-four said she was 'mortified' when she went to the hospital but that she 'still had hope' - before it was 'shattered' when doctors said she had died. Ms Burke said she 'collapsed with shock' when she learned of the teenager's death. She said: 'I was unable to take in the news I had just been told. I thought I was in a living nightmare and I pleaded with the doctors to tell me it wasn't true. 'To this day, I still refuse to accept it. The pain in my heart and stomach is unbearable, but I have to pull myself together in order to care for my other three children - if it wasn't for them, I truly believe I would not be here now.' Pictured: Blackbrook Road in St Helens, Merseyside - the scene of the horror crash. Mr Turton admitted causing death by dangerous driving and was jailed for six years and nine months Courtney's older sister Morgan witnessed the horror crash first-hand and has been left 'traumatised' by the incident. In the aftermath she cried out: 'Courtney please don't die, please don't leave me'. Ms Burke said: 'It must have been truly horrific for her to witness Courtney lying lifeless in the road. They were inseparable, and for Morgan to wake up each day and not have Courtney around is heart-breaking. 'We as a family are all lost. Courtney was so caring and sensitive. 'She loved cuddles. Now I will never be able to see my daughter get married or have children of her own.' Courtney also left behind a younger brother and sister. Ms Burke said: 'My younger children say goodnight to pictures of Courtney on my wall before they go to bed. They say "love you" and blow kisses to her. I am devastated that they will never get to know their big sister. 'I will never be the same mum. Everything I do now is for my other children and to try to make Courtney proud.' She also described her daughter as a 'beautiful person who loved to have a laugh, cried at sad films and had so much potential in life'. Ms Burke then told Mr Turton: 'One day you will get out of prison and be able to live your life. 'I will never forgive you and I will never forget what you did. You thought you were above the law.' Courtney's father Colin Ellis also read a touching statement to the court. Mr Ellis said: 'We had no time to say goodbye. She had a kind, caring nature. Courtney never got the chance to live out her dreams - she never even got the chance to finish school. 'How can I ever be the same when I had to see my girl lying lifeless in a hospital bed, when the last time I saw her she was full of life? That night changed every single member of my family forever.' Courtney (pictured), an aspiring midwife, had been hanging out with friends and her older sister Morgan when she ran across the road before being fatally hit by Mr Turton's vehicle, sending her 'flying through the air' He added: 'Every part of my life was shattered. Every single day is painful. 'I have no choice but to carry on and live with the pain of losing her in such a horrible way. We can never bring her back, but we have to see justice served on the person who took away her dreams, her life and who took her away from a family who loved her so much.' The court heard Mr Turton had been driving around the area 'just for something to do' and met up with Oliver McIntosh, who was in a silver Vauxhall Astra in the car park of Tesco in Haydock. In the 15 minutes before the incident, the two cars 'set off in convoy' and completed a high-speed circuit of nearby roads while 'competing with each other'. The pair returned to the supermarket before setting off again six minutes later. Mr Turton's friends inside the black vehicle 'repeatedly told him to slow down'. One of them later described his driving as 'awful'. Another stated that they were being 'thrown around the car' as he took corners and roundabouts at speed and overtook other vehicles. He also told the defendant to 'slow the f*** down' and said he would get out otherwise. This witness described how he had been flirting with a woman in the Renault whom Mr Turton had also been interested in romantically. However, she had not reciprocated these feelings and it was 'apparent he was angered or jealous'. Mr McIntosh too said that he had been 'driving like an idiot'. Courtney meanwhile had spent the afternoon in a nearby park with her older sister Morgan and a friend. While the teenager had been drinking, she was described as 'just being silly' or 'giddy'. The aspiring midwife 'had a falling out with a boy and was upset', and the group sat talking near to the Ship Inn pub for around a quarter of an hour before Morgan suggested they head home. As they did, Courtney ran across the road and was hit by the car and 'thrown through the air' before landing in the carriageway. Courtney's mother said she 'collapsed with shock' when she learned of the teenager's death. She said: 'I was unable to take in the news I had just been told. I thought I was in a living nightmare and I pleaded with the doctors to tell me it wasn't true' Mr Turton 'swerved at the last second'. One of his passengers thought the vehicle was going to flip over as it hurtled onwards towards a dog walker before coming to a stop. Courtney was described as having 'little chance to assess her own safety in crossing'. The friend who was present said they 'did not see or hear the approach of the defendant's vehicle' beforehand. Mr Turton admitted causing death by dangerous driving and was jailed for six years and nine months. Sentencing, Judge David Potter said: 'You could not successfully react to Courtney as she stepped into the road. 'You were simply going far too fast to avoid impact. Your dangerous driving cut short the life of a much-loved daughter, granddaughter and sister. 'Courtney was a loving child with enormous compassion and promise, who leaves behind a shattered and traumatised family. No-one who has not suffered the sudden loss of a child in circumstances such as these is ever in a position to understand how they feel. 'No sentence I can impose on you will reconcile the family of the deceased victim to their loss, nor will it cure their anguish. Your driving at grossly excessive speeds involved a deliberate decision to ignore, or a flagrant disregard for, the rules of the road and a disregard for the safety of others.' A Russian source has revealed the brutal tactics used by Putin's private mercenaries in Ukraine. 'Russian Criminal', a website with links to the VChK-OGPU, repeated insider comments on the suicidal drives of Wagner Group. Wagner Group is a Russian paramilitary organisation, first deployed in the annexation of Crimea in 2014 and now a private extension of the Russian army in Ukraine with close ties to Putin. The source told the outlet how squadrons of prisoner conscripts are sent in waves over and over, leapfrogging to move the front line slightly closer to the enemy while Russian artillery continues to explode overhead. The source said: 'Sometimes there is an order not to wait for the shelling to end - the 'Musicians' [Wagner recruits] are so disciplined that they will go anyway because they stand a fighting chance of surviving.' Putin crony Yevgeny Prigozhin trains prisoners to become 'real cannibals' in war with Ukraine Wagner mercenaries at Popasna, the Sievierodonetsk district of the Luhansk Oblast, Ukraine MailOnline previously reported on the 'human wave' tactics of the Russian army and Wagner Group, filmed during the intense fighting for Bakhmut in eastern Ukraine at the end of last year. Russian attacks have become increasingly desperate in recent months as Putin looks to secure a big win after months in deadlock. Nihilistic pushes, reminiscent of Britain's WWI experience of the Somme, result in huge casualties for both Ukraine and the invading Russians, who have increasingly buffered the invasion forces with a shield of former convicts. The insider source, likely from within Wagner Group, told Russian Criminal that groups of eight advance in waves. Each attack usually consists of four waves, but can take as many as 14 to take a contested area, as seen in Soledar. The source said that casualties often totalled one hundred or more per section. Conscripts from Russia's penal colonies are disciplined through an induction of watching video executions. Those who show weakness or are lightly wounded risk being shot in the legs and left behind. As a result, waves of troops throw themselves into suicidal charges through friendly artillery fire. A Ukrainian drone captured the moment a group of Russian troops came under heavy artillery fire near the Ukrainian city of Bakhmut in Donetsk Stormtroopers first advance in a squad of eight with a Bumblebee rocket-assisted flamethrower. 'Whatever happens, the group must reach a firefight. "Whatever happens" is not a turn of phrase, but a task, the failure of which will end in execution, regardless of any factors.' Losses of more than 50% are not bad if there is a result Squads then continue a cycle of advancing, digging in and marking a position, then reporting the coordinates back to artillery crews. Less well-equipped teams then reportedly push forward to advance the initial position marked by the stormtroopers. Many are killed in friendly artillery fire launched from Russian territory, made to advance even as artillery continues to land around them. The source explained how Wagner Group fills in for the regular army in contested areas like Soledar, where defensive lines are strong. Mercenaries - staffed largely by former convicts - are more willing to pick up the task, losing four waves of eight men to advance the front. 'Losses of more than 50% are not bad if there is a result.' Late last year, Russia made a concerted effort to recruit more prisoners to its frontlines in an effort to break the stalemate in Ukraine. The number of prisoners in Russian correctional colonies fell by 23,000 between September and October, independent outlet Medizona reported. On 6 November, Putin signed a new law into effect allowing the Russian state to conscript convicts. The private Wagner Group, existing largely outside of the law, likely came to rely on its recruitment of convicts most between the summer and autumn of 2022. Amnesty and a cash payment were reportedly offered to prisoners who joined the war effort and returned after six months during the recruitment drive last summer. Yesterday, the UK's Ministry of Defence reported that Russia was struggling to maintain its supply of convicts and would not be able to rely on 'human wave-style assault' any longer. The 'Russian Criminal' source corroborated this, adding that as a result of the suicidal tactics of Wagner Group squads, 'losses are growing and progress [slowing] down'. 'The recruitment of convicts at first gave a full-flowing river of people. Now they are gone.' White House spokesman John Kirby said in January that an estimated 50,000 fighters from Wagner Group were currently in Ukraine, about 40,000 of which are convicts. Before Ukraine, private Wagner Group mercenaries were deployed in Syria, Sudan and central Africa while allowing the Kremlin to deny any official Russian involvement Graves of Russian Wagner mercenary group fighters are seen in a cemetery near Bakinskaya MailOnline reported yesterday on the desperate situation of Russia's infantry, used as cannon fodder and preferring to take their own lives than to fight for Putin in Ukraine. A 25-year-old, stricken by panic attacks as a witness to the atrocities of war, died by suicide after throwing himself out of a ten storey window in full view of his mother. Mikhail Lyubimov's story is sadly not unique, and offers a tragic insight into the blunt reality of a war of aggression. Putin's 'meat grinder' approach to the war, sending conscripts in waves to make small territorial progress in a sovereign nation, has seen morale and support for the war decline steadily over the last year. Meduza reported last year that support from the war among Russians fell steadily throughout 2022, peaking in March-April and falling from 25% to 16% by September. The thick mud of spring - 'Rasputitsa' - is the latest assault on Russian morale as the east of Ukraine becomes damp and wet. The thawing of the ground will make progress harder for advancing armour, and may give dug-in defenders a tactical advantage. As a result, it has been predicted that the end of winter may make it more difficult for Ukraine to recover territory, further entrenching the war in stalemate. Ukrainian soldiers dig trenches in Soledar, Donetsk region, on 14 January as Wagner Group attacks in waves with tactics reminiscent of those used in World War I The hands of a Ukrainian soldier on a cigarette break following fresh waves of attacks and hits on key infrastructure facilities in Soledar, eastern Ukraine, on 14 January 2023 British tanks to defend Ukraine Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has told President Volodymyr Zelensky that he is determined to ensure Britain's promised military aid reaches Ukraine as quickly as possible. In a call on Saturday, he said that Ukrainian troops in the UK have begun training this week on Challenger 2 main battle tanks, which Britain has agreed to supply to the government in Kyiv. A Downing Street spokesman said: 'Both leaders agreed that it was vital that international partners accelerated their assistance to Ukraine to help seize the opportunity to push Russian forces back, as well as looking at how they could support the long-term capability of Ukraine's armed forces. 'The greatest weapon in Ukraine's arsenal was the collective international unity in support of Ukraine, the leaders agreed.' Advertisement Russia has long relied on its large prison population to change war outcomes. After the German invasion of the USSR in 1941, the Soviet Union faced a mass desertion of its regular troops. With Nazi Germany pushing through Crimea, Soviet leader Josef Stalin created Penal Battalions ('Shtrafbats') made up of all but professional criminals to keep bolster forces. More than 400,000 people are known to have fought in these battalions during the war. Most were those convicted of desertion or cowardice, or Soviet Gulag labour camp inmates. Prisoners were sent to the most dangerous parts of the front line to resist the German invasion. At Stalingrad in August 1942, Stalin sent a penal battalion of disgraced officers to meet the Germans. After three days, only 300 of 929 remained alive. Until October 1942, Russia used 'blocking detachments' to keep criminals marching forwards, shooting 'panic makers and cowards'. The infamous Order 227 - the 'not one step backward' order - held that 'panic makers and cowards must be liquidated on the spot'. 'I'm never going to be size zero': Oti Mabuse details the pressure she feels to look skinny on TV and admits it's got worse since quitting Strictly Her family are pleading for help to raise the funds to get their mother home Family members were refused contact with their mother until the debt is paid A British grandmother is being 'held hostage' in a Turkish intensive care unit as doctors say she has run up a 190,000 medical bill and they will not release her to be flown home to the UK until her family pay the first 100,000. The family of a 79-year-old grandmother are pleading for help by the public to help them return her to the UK as she is currently being held in a hospital in Antalya, Turkey. Lucy Groves, the daughter of the British woman, said that her mother went on a holiday to Turkey to meet friends, however, during the holiday she became 'seriously unwell' and suffered a heart attack. The grandmother was intubated and had to have an emergency triple heart bypass surgery in order to save her life. Although her daughter rushed to be at her side, she then fell ill from pneumonia and had to be reintubated to rest her lungs. After five days the hospital were required to wake the grandmother, but she suffered from bleeding to her stomach muscles and was reintubated for a third time. The family of a 79-year-old grandmother are pleading for help by the public to help them return her to the UK Her daughter, Lucy Groves, worries for her mother who is alone in a 'strange country' Lucy revealed that she is now conscious but still critical and in intensive care in the foreign hospital. She has only been able to briefly contact her mother three times through WhatsApp and worries that 'she is alone in a strange country and not really aware of what' she's been through.' The family initially believed that her insurance would cover the medical bills, which have racked up to 190,000, however, they were told that her policy is void due to not declaring a medical condition prior to the incident. The family are 'devastated' and concerned for their mother as they 'don't have that sort of money to pay'. Lucy set up a fundraiser and is 'begging for any help no matter how small' to get her mother home as the hospital cannot move her and will be holding her passport until 100,000 is paid. She said: 'I really hate to do this and anyone that knows me knows I don't like to ask for help but on this occasion I really need it 'As a family we are devastated and doing everything we can to try and pay in order to repatriated her back to the UK as soon as she is well enough to travel.' In an updated post yesterday, Lucy thanked people for their donations and support during this difficult period. The hospital where the grandmother is currently staying have refused the family's requests to video call their mother until the payments are settled She added that after speaking with the Turkish consulate, the family were promised a video call with their mother but were disappointed when they were instead asked to settle the payments. After explaining that they did not yet have the funds, they were refused the video call. The 79-year-old's worried daughter said the family are 'just hoping mum doesn't think we've abandoned her in a strange country.' To donate to the fundraiser, click here. A teenage girl has tragically died after being mauled by a shark in Western Australia while swimming with dolphins. The teen, 16, is believed to have been jet skiing with her friends when she spotted a pod of dolphins and dived into the Swan River in North Fremantle. She was swimming with the dolphins when she was attacked by the shark - as her horrified friends watched on. Emergency services rushed to the scene and she was pulled out of the water with severe leg injuries. However, despite the attempts of several paramedics, the girl died of her injuries. The teen is believed to have bitten on the leg while in the Swan River by a traffic bridge in North Fremantle WA Police said they received a triple zero call about 3.30pm and emergency services rushed to the scene Police didn't go into details about her injuries or what species of shark was involved in the attack. It is the first fatal shark attack in the Swan River in more than a century. WA Police said they received a triple zero call about 3.30pm and emergency services rushed to the scene. She was initially reported to be fighting for her life but has since passed away. Amid a string of reports, WA Police initially thought that she may have been injured by a boat propeller. Fremantle District Acting Inspector Paul Robinson described the incident as 'traumatic'. 'It's an extremely traumatic event for everyone involved and everyone who knew the young girl, so I won't be going into the extent of the injuries. She was initially reported to be fighting for her life but has since passed away Fremantle District Acting Inspector Paul Robinson described the incident as 'traumatic' 'It is unusual for a shark to be that far down the river at this point in time an alert has been put out, a shark warning just to let people know this incident has taken place. 'What we've been advised issues with friends on the river, they were on Jet Skis, there was possibly a pod of dolphins been seen nearby, and the young female jumped in the water to swim nearby the dolphins.' They Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development on Saturday afternoon confirmed they were currently investigating a report of a 'possible shark bite' incident. 'DPIRD is working with local authorities and further information will be provided as it becomes available,' a spokesman said. The only confirmed fatal attack in the Swan River was on January 31, 1923. Then, 13-year-old Scotch College student Charles Robinson was killed after he was attacked while swimming six metres from shore at Freshwater Bay near his schools boat shed. Desperate Nigerians are stripping naked in protest as banks are running out of cash after the Government moved to replace high-denomination notes. Video shared on Twitter shows how a naked customer demanded to close his bank account - reportedly valued at 520,000 naira - after employees refused to give him more than 20,000N at the counter. Another man climbed on top of the service counter and stripped after workers apparently fail to provide him with his requested money. Some firms were forced to close and lock their doors after angry crowds brawled inside. Others even erected tents to protect cash-seeking customers from the sun as they waited in long queues. The chaos comes as Nigeria battles major cash and fuel shortages just three weeks before the presidential election. Candidates have traded accusations of blame over the shortages with the ruling party hopeful even suggesting his enemies had manufactured the crisis to undermine his election chances. Video shared on Twitter shows how a naked customer demanded to close his bank account - reportedly valued at 520,000 naira - after employees refused to give him more than 20,000N at the counter Some Nigerian banks were forced to close and lock their doors after crowds of angry customers brawled inside (pictured) Nigeria's Central Bank announced last October that it would be taking the N200, N500 and N1,000 notes out of circulation on January firm. The Government intended to replace the banknotes with new designs that it claimed would be 'more secure.' However the replacements were not immediately available and the switch deadline was extended to next Friday. Citizens are now unable to withdrawal money from their accounts, making it hard for them to participate in the cash-reliant economy. Japhet Joshua Babatunde, who is a customer at the FirstBank branch in Ikoyi, said his salary was deposited over a week ago and he still cannot access funds. 'I'm angry it's my own money I came to collect, not a loan,' he told The Financial Times yesterday. Another customer claimed to have visited the bank for five consecutive days but still wasn't able to get any cash. A security guard at that the Ikoyi FirstBank also revealed that he was ordered to lock customers outside after fights erupted in the bank. The branch did eventually start dispensing cash from its ATM, but limited customers to 10,000 naira. Video shared on Twitter shows how a customer at one bank climbed on top of the service counter and stripped down to his underwear after employees apparently fail to provide him with his requested money Another customer went into a bank in his underwear after 15,000N allegedly vanished from his account Across the nation, crowds have been seen jostling outside ATM machines and banks to try and access scarce cash supplies. People are pictured queueing outside a bank in Lagos on Wednesday UK gets its WORST ever score in global corruption report, with public spending and ministerial misconduct scandals blamed: READ MORE HERE The closely watched study by anti-graft organisation Transparency International said most of the world's countries were failing to fight corruption, finding 95 percent have made little or no progress since 2017. Pictured: A map showing how countries were ranked in the report Advertisement Across the nation, crowds have been seen jostling outside ATM machines and banks to try and access scarce cash supplies. A leading Nigerian lender told the newspaper that many banks did not receive enough supply of the new banknotes to meet customer demand. The Central Bank has urged citizens 'to exercise patience' as the governmental agency works 'assiduously to address the challenge of queues at ATMs.' It also reportedly encouraged customers to use cards and electronic payments, but industry executives say those types of payments are failing because of the 'volume increases that no one did anything to prepare for.' Outgoing President Muhammadu Buhari addressed the crisis yesterday, blaming 'inefficient' banks for being 'only concerned about themselves.' He also asked the nation to 'give him seven days to resolve the cash crunch.' It is unclear what steps he plans to take to ease the shortage. MailOnline has approached Mr Buhari's office, the Central Bank and FirstBank for comment. Both cash and fuel shortages are stirring up public anger and tension as presidential hopefuls near the end of the campaign trail. Campaign rhetoric has been heating in the run up to the February 25 vote to decide on the successor to Mr Buhari, a former army commander who steps down after two terms in office. Video shows a long queue at a bank in Nigeria earlier this week as customers try to access cash The election appears close with three leading candidates: Bola Tinubu of the ruling party All Progressives Congress (APC), main opposition party Peoples Democratic Party's (PDP) Atiku Abubakar and Labour party hopeful Peter Obi. Already grappling with widespread insecurity and economic fallout from the Ukraine war, Nigerians are also dealing with fuel shortages and limited access to cash due to a programme to exchange old bank notes for new ones. Outgoing President Muhammadu Buhari (pictured in Lagos, Nigeria last month) addressed the crisis yesterday, blaming 'inefficient' banks for being 'only concerned about themselves' One of Africa's top oil producers, Nigeria often struggles with fuel shortages as it imports most of its petrol and diesel because its refineries are not working. Across the nation, people have been sleeping in cars outside petrol stations for a chance to fill their tanks. Earlier this week, riots broke out in the northern city of Kano, with an angry mob protesting a visit by Mr Buhari and blaming the ruling APC for the currency hardship. Mr Tinubu, a former Lagos governor, has lashed out at enemies for purposefully creating the crisis to derail his own election. 'They are trying to cause trouble and sabotage us,' he told supporters at a rally in Abeokuta last week. 'Whether there is fuel or not... we will vote and win.' But powerful APC governor for Kaduna State, Nasir El-Rufai, stirred up tensions further this week with a claim 'saboteurs' in the presidential villa were trying to undermine Tinubu. 'We are convinced there are some elements in the villa that want the APC to lose the election,' Mr El-Rufai told Arise News. 'There appears to be very strong evidence of a conspiracy to incite voters against the APC.' Nigeria often struggles with fuel shortages as it imports most of its petrol and diesel because its refineries are not working. Pictured: People wait to fill their plastic containers outside of a fuel station along a road in the Yaba district of Lagos on Monday Across the nation, people have been sleeping in cars outside petrol stations for a chance to fill their tanks. Pictured: Vehicles queue outside a fuel station along a road in the Yaba district of Lagos on Monday Mr Tinubu - known as the 'Godfather of Lagos' for his political influence - was instrumental in getting Buhari elected in 2015 and re-elected in 2019. But he has rattled APC ranks with his claim 'It's my turn' for the presidency. Information Minister Lai Mohammed told reporters he was unaware of anyone in the presidency working against Mr Tinubu and said Mr Buhari just wanted a free, fair and credible contest. But PDP candidate Mr Abubakar's campaign was quick to point to Mr Tinubu trying to distance himself from the Buhari government's record over eight years. 'Tinubu ought to know that Nigerians can see through his antics and beguilements and that his diversionary theatrics on fuel and new naira notes cannot sway Nigerians at this moment,' PDP spokesman Kola Ologbondiyan said in a statement on Twitter. The central bank on Thursday authorised banks to start distributing new naira currency notes in a bid to ease the cash shortages. A person is pictured holding a new 1,000N note Since emerging from military rule in 1999, Nigeria's elections have often been marred by logistical problems, violence and claims of fraud. The Independent National Electoral Commission or INEC this week said it was concerned fuel shortages may also disrupt its organisation of the ballot. The central bank on Thursday authorised banks to start distributing new naira currency notes in a bid to ease the cash shortages. First elected in 2015, Buhari promised to end a long war against jihadists in the northeast. But although Islamist militants have been driven out of swaths of territory they had controlled, the war is grinding on in the northeast. More than two million people have been displaced. Insecurity has also spread. Criminal militias in the northwest and central regions often carry out mass kidnappings and looting raids on villages. Rare metals that are found in catalytic converters are more valuable than gold Local residents are worried from the rise in crime in the area A shocking video captures the moment brazen thieves steal a catalytic converter from an NHS worker's car in affluent Dulwich Village for the second time in six months. An NHS worker from Dulwich Village, southeast London, caught the three thieves on video as they stole the catalytic converter from her car on Thursday around 8.30pm after putting her children to bed. The woman, who has requested to remain anonymous, reported that she first became aware of the thieves when she heard a loud noise from outside, believing it to be construction work. The video shows the thieves using a car jack to access the catalytic converter from underneath as a loud grinding noise can be heard across the street. She recalled how she 'flung' the front door open and was met with three men who wore all-black and whose faces were covered with balaclavas. The video captures the moment thieves are caught stealing a catalytic converter from an NHS worker's car in Dulwich Village for the second time in six months The woman attempted to scare the thieves away by shouting at them, however, they were unphased and continued to work on the car. She said: 'I thought that they might get scared when someone saw them but they just carried on. One of them was high-fiving their mates.' The woman said that her husband chased the thieves and ran down the street after them in an attempt to catch them and identify their vehicle. Police were also contacted and notified of the crime. She said: 'Its quite scary, people with young kids live around this area, its very scary. We dont know what to do. The NHS worker claims that there has been a rise in crime in the area as neighbours in adjoining streets have also faced vehicle-related thefts. She added: 'It's horrendous here at the moment. Its massively on the up.' The witness claims that the three thieves were dressed in all-black clothing and wore balaclavas The family also faced the same theft six months ago in August and is distressed that it is becoming a frequent occurrence in the area. A spokesperson for the Metropolitan Police said: 'Police were called at 20:30hrs on Thursday, 2 February, to a report of a theft in SE21. Officers attended and it was reported that a catalytic converter had been stolen from a car that was parked outside a house. Read More: Catalytic converter thefts soar due to rocketing value Advertisement 'Officers took a description of the suspects and carried out a search of the area, however, no suspects were identified. They await CCTV from a nearby property. 'Anyone who saw anything suspicious in the area is asked to call 101 quoting CAD 6937/02Feb. 'Information can also be shared anonymously with the independent charity Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111.' Thefts of catalytic converters have more than doubled in the last year due to the rocketing value of precious metals. Some police forces have even seen them rise by more than 400 per cent. The reasoning behind the rise is that the rare metals found in catalytic converters are more valuable than gold and can be easily sold - a single converter can fetch as much as 400. This is the moment a crash row turned into a terrifying road rage attack when a van driver grabbed the victim in a headlock and put a plastic fork to his neck. Craig Hatch, a self-employed joiner, saw red after the driver he bumped into questioned whether he was using his phone on Kirk Brae in Edinburgh on July 6, 2021. At Edinburgh Sheriff Court on January 21, Mr Hatch pleaded guilty to assault to injury and was ordered to pay the victim 400 compensation. The court also fined him 240. The assault took place at around 1pm whilst the man's two-year-old son was strapped into the back seat. He has chosen to remain anonymous due to fear of repercussions. Craig Hatch, a self-employed joiner, saw red after the driver he bumped into questioned whether he was using his phone on Kirk Brae in Edinburgh on July 6, 2021 At Edinburgh Sheriff Court on January 21, Mr Hatch (pictured right) pleaded guilty to assault to injury and was ordered to pay the victim 400 compensation. The court also fined him 240 Dash cam footage captured the incident. Both drivers exited their vehicles and inspected the damage. Mr Hatch said his foot slipped off the brake of his red Ford van, causing the bump. When he was asked if he was on his mobile phone, he launched a foul-mouthed rant and vicious assault. After squaring up to the driver, Mr Hatch held him in a headlock and forced him against the rear of his vehicle, putting a plastic fork to his throat. The assault took place at around 1pm whilst the man's two-year-old son was strapped into the back seat The van driver, Craig Hatch, is seen confronting the victim Mr Hatch forced the victim against the rear of his vehicle, putting a plastic fork to his throat Moments later, he tossed the driver onto the pavement where he was further assaulted. The victim was pushed by Mr Hatch after he returned to his feet. He then entered the car and called the police. Mr Hatch, who also returned to his vehicle, began a tirade of abuse through his open window. 'Make sure you tell the f****** truth, you don't need to worry though I have insurance,' he shouted. Moments later, Mr Hatch tossed the driver onto the pavement Mr Hatch further assaulted the victim before they returned to their vehicles Speaking on Friday, the anonymous driver said: 'It was meant to be a quick trip to the grocery [shop], but turned out to be a nightmare. 'I only asked him about using his phone, but could not have predicted his reaction and things escalated quickly. 'I did not want to engage in any confrontation as I was worried for the safety of myself and my little son, who had to witness the incident from his rear-facing seat. The unprovoked attack left us both very distressed.' A spokesperson for Police Scotland said: 'I can confirm around 6 July 2021, police received a report of a road crash and assault in Kirk Brae, Edinburgh. 'Officers attended and a 39-year-old man was arrested and charged in connection with the incident.' Putin marked the 80th anniversary of the Battle of Stalingrad (now Volgograd) Pilots in multiple Russian planes reported a UFO buzzing Volgograd when Vladimir Putin visited the city on Thursday. The extraordinary accounts say the unidentified object 'changed colour and height' in the sky. A report by Telegram channel Aviatorschina said the UFO was seen and reported to the aviation authorities by the crews of four separate passenger planes. Putin had flown to Volgograd under close security to attend ceremonies linked to the 80th anniversary of the Battle of Stalingrad in the Second World War. The incidents came as the dictator hinted that the conflict in Ukraine could turn nuclear following the West's moves to supply Kyiv with major supplies of tanks. He said: 'We don't send our tanks to their borders but we have the means to respond, and it won't end with the use of armoured vehicles, everyone must understand that. 'A modern war with Russia will be completely different.' Russian President Vladimir Putin delivers his speech as he attends commemorations marking the 80th anniversary of the Soviet victory in the battle of Stalingrad in Volgograd S7 airlines flight S72046 from Sochi to Moscow reported a sighting of 'an unidentified flying object' over Volgograd, Russia, on 2 February 2023 Aviatorschina channel reported: 'The crew of an Airbus A321 of S7 Airlines, operating flight S72046 from Sochi to Moscow, 12 minutes before reaching Volgograd at an altitude of 10,000 meters, reported that they observed an unidentified flying object at right angles to the plane, on the left side. 'The object was changing colour and height, and the direction of movement.' The channel monitors air incidents and added: 'Later, the crews of Aeroflot (SU1125), S7 Airlines (S73750) and Rossiya (SU6358) flights confirmed this information after flying near Volgograd.' The Rossiya plane crew assessed the distance of the UFO at around 125 miles. The sightings were reported to air traffic control and civil and military authorities. 'The competent authorities have been notified, since no flight plans were provided in the specified area at the time. 'Permission to use the airspace was not issued.' The S7 crew reported the timing at 19:08 Moscow time [16:08 GMT] on Thursday. The timing of the other sightings were not precisely revealed. The 19:08 sighting was around three hours after Putin's arrival, and occurred as he took part in the commemorations which included his sabre-rattling speech. It is known that laser displays linked to the 80th anniversary commemorations were taking place at 18:00, 19:00, 20:00 and 20:45. Vladimir Putin visits Volgograd on 2 February 2023 to commemorate the Battle of Stalingrad A laser show pictured in Volgograd, southern Russia, amid celebrations in February 2023 Yet the pilots would be expected to be informed about this. The Russian authorities have not commented on the UFO reports. The flights reporting the strange sightings were S72046 - S7 or Siberia Airlines - from Sochi to Moscow, SU1125 - Aeroflot - also Sochi to Moscow, S73750 Istanbul to Moscow and SU6358 - Rossiya - from Mineralnye Vody to St. Petersburg. The flight paths took the planes to the east of Volgograd, formerly called Stalingrad. All the air routings show major detours to avoid flying close to the war zone in Ukraine before they flew past Volgograd. Disgraced actor Armie Hammer has broken his silence to claim he was molested by a pastor at 13 and attempted suicide in the Cayman Islands after a series of depraved revelations about his sex life were made public. Hammer, 36, also insisted that while he was an 'a**hole' and 'one million percent' emotionally abused younger women, he is not a criminal. The shamed The Social Network star has not been heard from and rarely seen since a woman named Effie, 26, accused him in 2021 of having 'violently raped' her. This led to a series of accusations by women involving his interest in kinky sex and even cannibalism. He has denied the accusations through his attorney and said all of his sexual encounters were 'completely consensual, discussed and agreed upon in advance and mutually participatory'. Now in his first interview since the scandal, with Graydon Carter's Air Mail, Hammer claims he is a victim of cancel culture and hopes for a comeback. Disgraced actor Armie Hammer said in his first interview in years that he was molested by a pastor at 13, but insisted that while he was an 'a**hole,' he's not a criminal in his first interview since becoming a pariah following a series of revelations about his sex life 'I'm now a healthier, happier, more balanced person,' he told Air Mail. 'I'm able to be there for my kids in a way I never was. I'm able to be there for my dad as he's dying in a way that I would have never been able to be. I'm truly grateful for my life and my recovery and everything. I would not go back and undo everything that's happened to me.' Hammer, who first came to viewers attention in The Social Network before going on to be nominated for a Golden Globe in Call Me By Your Name, gave the interview because he wants to 'own my mistakes' but also say that he doesn't regret having been publicly shamed. 'I'm here to own my mistakes, take accountability for the fact that I was an a**hole, that I was selfish, that I used people to make me feel better, and when I was done, moved on... I'm now a healthier, happier, more balanced person. I'm able to be there for my kids in a way I never was... I'm truly grateful for my life and my recovery and everything. I would not go back and undo everything that's happened to me,' he said. Despite that, Hammer still feels he's a victim of cancel culture and wants to see more chances for public rehabilitation, like his mentor Robert Downey Jr. received when going through drug and alcohol abuse. 'There are examples everywhere, of people who went through those things and found redemption through a new path,' he said. 'And that, I feel like, is what's missing in this cancel-culture, woke-mob business. The minute anyone does anything wrong, they're thrown away. There's no chance for rehabilitation.' Hammer admitted going through hell during the scandal, at one point attempting suicide in the Cayman Islands. Hammer - seen here with father Michael - who first came to viewers attention in The Social Network before going on to be nominated for a Golden Globe in Call Me By Your Name, gave the interview because he wants to 'own my mistakes' but also say that he doesn't regret having been publicly shamed Hammer has denied the accusations through his attorney and said that all of his sexual encounters have been 'completely consensual, discussed and agreed upon in advance and mutually participatory' Hammer admitted going through hell during the scandal, at one point attempting suicide in the Cayman Islands 'I just walked out into the ocean and swam out as far as I could and hoped that either I drowned, or was hit by a boat, or eaten by a shark,' Hammer said. 'Then I realized that my kids were still on shore, and that I couldn't do that to my kids.' Hammer defends his sexual interests by saying he has had an interest in BDSM since the age of 13, when he was sexually abused by a youth pastor. 'What that did for me was it introduced sexuality into my life in a way that it was completely out of my control,' Hammer said. 'I was powerless in the situation. I had no agency in the situation. Sexuality was introduced to me in a scary way where I had no control. My interests then went to: I want to have control in the situation, sexually.' Hammer's godmother, Candace Garvey, one of only two people he told when it happened, corroborated his story to Air Mail. The actor further defended himself against the accusations of a woman who went by the name 'Effie,' who has since been identified as Efrosina Angelova. The actor further defended himself against the accusations of a woman who went by the name 'Effie,' who has since been identified as Efrosina Angelova (pictured left) Speaking at a press conference, Effie claimed that Hammer 'repeatedly slammed her head against a wall' during the incident, leaving her with bruises to her face Courtney Vucekovich accused Hammer of being physically and emotionally abusive while they were together Julia Morrison was one of the women to speak out on the Discovery+ documentary House of Hammer Angelova said she would be suing Hammer for allegedly raping her for in a four-hour long 'violent' incident in 2017. After nine months, the LAPD finished a probe into Angelova's claim and sources close to the investigation told TMZ that the case against him 'isn't strong.' The sources did not elaborate on the weaknesses in the case and whether they stem from insufficient evidence, a lack of witnesses or another cause all together. Hammer said the incident was a 'meticulously' planned 'scene' of 'consensual non consent.' 'This alleged rape was a scene that was her idea,' Hammer said. 'She planned all of the details out, all the way down to what Starbucks I would see her at, how I would follow her home, how her front door would be open and unlocked and I would come in, and we would engage in what is called a 'consensual non-consent scene.' He added: 'Every single thing was discussed beforehand,' he says. 'I have never thrust this on someone unexpectedly. Never.' Hammer said that his troubled personal life was due to a 'very intense and extreme lifestyle. I would scoop up these women, bring them into it - into this whirlwind of travel and sex and drugs and big emotions flying around - and then as soon as I was done, I'd just drop them off and move on to the next woman, leaving that woman feeling abandoned or used.' Since his downfall, Hammer had been thought to be living in the Cayman Islands but is now back in Los Angeles and has begun work as a sober companion for a recovering addict, work he says he's going to dive into further. 'I'm going to move in with him and live with him, get him on a healthy routine, get him into a good schedule of [recovery] meetings, take him to the gym, cook healthy food for him,' he said. 'It feels like my recovery has taken a turn from me being the one who needs help staying sober, to me being able to help others.' Hammer's troubles began when the Instagram account House of Effie started leaking disturbing messages, said to be sent by him between 2016 and February 2020, that include conversations about BDSM, in addition to numerous sexual references to cannibalistic acts and blood-sucking. In one message, the actor allegedly writes to the woman: 'I am 100% a cannibal. I want to eat you.' 'F**k. That's scary to admit,' the message continues. 'I've never admitted that before.' Following the publicity from the disturbing message leaks, Hammer's former partners Paige Lorenze and Courtney Vucekovich accused him of being physically and emotionally abusive while they were together. Lorenze told Page Six that the actor had carved the letter 'A' into her pelvis to brand her and then sucked the blood that oozed out. She also accused him of being emotionally manipulative and said he repeatedly spoke of 'consuming her.' After the allegations first began to mount in January, Hammer stepped down from a role in Jennifer Lopez's film Shotgun Wedding and denied the allegations against him in a statement to the Daily Mail. 'I'm not responding to these b******* claims but in light of the vicious and spurious online attacks against me, I cannot in good conscience now leave my children for 4 months to shoot a film in the Dominican Republic,' he said. Hammer's lawyer released a screenshot of a conversation he said between Angelova and the actor. The screenshot was released from Hammer's team after Angelova's press conference A representative for the production said 'Armie has requested to step away from the film and we support him in his decision.' During a March press conference with her attorney Gloria Allred, Effie Angelova, 24, alleged: 'On April 24, 2017, Armie Hammer violently raped me for over four hours in Los Angeles. During which he repeatedly slapped my head against a wall bruising my face. He also committed other acts of violence against me to which I did not consent.' According to Variety, Angelova said she thought Hammer was 'going to kill' her, and claimed he beat her feet during the alleged attack 'so they would hurt' and said she tried to leave 'but he wouldn't let' her. Angelova alleges she met Hammer on Facebook when she was 20, and admitted to falling in love with the actor, although she now believes she fell victim to 'manipulation tactics'. She claimed: 'He would often test my devotion to him. He abused me mentally, emotionally and sexually.' Shortly after, the LAPD confirmed it was investigating the actor after a 'community member' came forward with an attorney on February 3 2021 with a sexual assault claim. Hammer separated from his wife of 10 years, Elizabeth Chambers, in June 2020 - six months before the HouseOfEffie account started sharing messages However, Hammer has denied the allegations made against him, and his lawyer has provided screenshots of alleged text conversations between him and Angelova which seemingly suggest he told her they couldn't pursue a relationship, though these are not verified. In one message, Hammer allegedly told Angelova: 'I am not going to be able to engage in you in that specific way right now. It never ends well. We can talk and be friends, but I can't do that.' The actor's lawyer also said Hammer's encounter with Angelova was 'completely consensual, discussed and agreed upon in advance, and mutually participatory'. In a statement, the lawyer said: 'Effie's own correspondence with Mr. Hammer undermines and refutes her outrageous allegations. As recently as July 18, 2020, [she] sent graphic texts to Mr. Hammer telling him what she wanted him to do to her 'Mr. Hammer responded, making it clear that he did not want to maintain that type of relationship with her. 'It was never Mr. Hammer's intention to embarrass or expose [Effie's] fetishes or kinky sexual desires, but she has now escalated this matter to another level by hiring a civil lawyer to host a public press conference. 'With the truth on his side, Mr. Hammer welcomes the opportunity to set the record straight. From day one, Mr. Hammer has maintained that all of his interactions with [Effie] and every other sexual partner of his for that matter have been completely consensual, discussed and agreed upon in advance, and mutually participatory. '[Effie's] attention seeking and ill-advised legal bid will only make it more difficult for real victims of sexual violence to get the justice they deserve.' Hammer's wife Elizabeth Chambers filed for divorce in July 2020, and six months later he was in the eye of a frenzied storm - with allegations of affairs, cannibalism, sexual coercion and brutality. The couple share two children: their daughter Harper, seven, and their son Ford, five. Hammer, 36, has not been heard from and rarely seen since a woman named Effie, 26, who has not given her name due to fears of retaliation and harassment, accused Hammer in 2021 of having 'violently raped' her Armie Hammer, 35, and his former wife Elizabeth Chambers, 39, are seen in March 2018 at the Oscars Hammer and Chambers are pictured with their children Harper and Ford in December 2019 A series of texts Hammer sent to one of his accusers. It was anonymously shared in 2021 when he was first accused. It is unclear who he sent it to A pair of texts Armie Hammer allegedly sent to Courtney Vucekovich were revealed in the documentary that disturbed the ex-girlfriend Messages he sent to women included conversations about extreme sexual bondage and disturbing cannibalistic urges. 'I want to eat you...I am 100% a cannibal,' read one message, while others included troubling admissions of desires to eat a woman's ribs and cut off her toes. One woman accused him of rape. The LAPD has investigated and Hammer has never been charged, but the allegations proved to be catastrophic for Hammer's career, and he was subsequently dropped by the talent agency WME, as well as by his personal publicist. He was replaced in Jennifer Lopez's new rom-com Shotgun Wedding by Josh Duhamel, and Miles Teller took over his role in the TV series The Offer, which dramatizes the making of Francis Ford Coppola's classic film The Godfather. Although he was removed form those productions, Hammer had already finished filming the Kenneth Branagh-directed mystery Death On The Nile, which features an ensemble cast including Branagh, Gal Gadot, Annette Benning, Russell Brand and Rose Leslie, among others. Viewers mocked a trailer for the film after it appeared to go out of its way to minimize the actor's participation - though his brief appearances were still too much for many viewers. Hammer was also sued by American Express over an unpaid $67,000 credit card bill, but the case was dropped this week. In September, Discovery+ released a three-part docu-series, House of Hammer, that detailed Hammer's relationships and family dynasty. The series interviewed two of Hammer's former girlfriends, Courtney Vucekovich and Julia Morrison, and members of the Hammer household. Prince Andrew has finally broken cover amid reports that he may take legal action or write a book in attempt to restore his tarnished reputation. The Duke of York, sporting a seemingly glum expression, was seen horse riding on the grounds of the Windsor Estate today. Andrew, 62, was urged earlier this week to try and overturn the multi-million-pound settlement he struck with his sex abuse accuser, Virginia Giuffre. Royal analysts believe he was left a substantial inheritance by the Queen and this has provided him with the security should he wish to mount a legal challenge against Ms Giuffre, 39. Others suspect Andrew, who was recently branded one of the most unpopular royals, may pen a memoir to try and clear his name after having consistently denied Ms Giuffre's allegations. Prince Andrew (pictured today at Windsor) has finally broken cover amid reports that he may take legal action or write a book in attempt to restore his tarnished reputation The Duke of York, sporting a seemingly glum expression, was seen horse riding on the grounds of the Windsor Estate today (pictured) Ms Giuffre, a trafficking victim of paedophile Jeffrey Epstein, accused Andrew of sexually abusing her when she was a minor under US law. Andrew denied the accusations but paid a reported 12million out-of-court settlement last year to get her to drop the civil claim in the US. The settlement is believed to include a non-disclosure embargo, which prevents either or both sides from revealing any details of the agreement, that is set to expire in March. It was crafted to cover the year of the late Queens Platinum Jubilee, a source told The Daily Mail. Once it is up, there is nothing to stop the Duke possibly becoming more pro-active. Andrew - who recently claimed to friends that a 'mystery development' will restore his disgraced reputation within the coming months - is also in a much stronger financial position than he was a year ago, at the time of the settlement. Prince Andrew with his arm around the then-17-year-old Virginia Roberts (now known by her married name Giuffre) Andrew paid Virginia Giuffre (pictured in November 2022) a reported 12million out-of-court settlement last year to get her to drop the civil claim in the US There is, of course, a further remedy Andrew could consider: to follow the lead pf his nephew Prince Harry and write a book. It is inconceivable that he has not thought of this, a long-time friend of the Duke said. Plenty in his circle think thats just what he should do and Fergie, who has written her own memoir, My Story, has got all the contacts in publishing. He would never have considered it while his mother was alive but it would be the perfect riposte now. Of course the royals wouldnt like it, but Fergie did hers and wasnt ostracised and as for Harry, they are even now talking about family reconciliation. Lawyer nicknamed 'Mr Loophole' says Prince Andrew should not unravel his settlement with sex assault accuser Virginia Giuffre: READ MORE There are whispers Andrew is preparing to mount an extraordinary bid to clear his name after settling out of court with his accuser for a sum worth an estimated 12million Advertisement Analysts say a book might offer Andrew a swifter and more satisfying form of redemption than devoting himself to charitable causes. It is also understood that Andrew has consulted lawyers in Los Angeles in an attempt to get Ms Giuffre to retract her allegations and possibly secure an apology. He is reportedly ready to launch a $100million (nearly 83million) lawsuit against Ms Giuffre if she repeats sex claims against him in her upcoming memoir. Legal sources close to the Prince say he is prepared to go on the attack should she repeat the allegations. Lawyers for Ms Giuffre declined to comment when approached by DailyMail.com earlier this week, but a source close to her insisted the settlement does not preclude her from writing about him, saying: She will be able to discuss Prince Andrew. A leading US lawyer has also claimed Andrew should challenge Ms Giuffre to give back the settlement amid questions about her 'credibility.' The Epstein victim sued Alan Dershowitz for calling her a liar over her claims that she had been forced to have sex with him. But in a statement in November Ms Giuffre admitted she 'may have made a mistake' in pointing the finger at Mr Dershowitz, who denied her claims. Mr Dershowitz told The Daily Telegraph this week that Andrew made a 'mistake' in not taking the case to trial and should now try to overturn the settlement. He said: 'I have never understood why he accepted the settlement. There were many, many good defences he could have raised. 'He should pursue every legal remedy and the media should investigate thoroughly all of the allegations because this is just the tip of the iceberg.' The bodies of British volunteer aid workers Chris Parry and Andrew Bagshaw have been returned to Ukraine as part of a prisoner swap with Russia. Mr Parry, 28, and Mr Bagshaw, 47, are thought to have been killed when their car was hit by an artillery shell during the evacuation of civilians from Soledar in January. Their return is part of a prisoner swap of 179 prisoners between Ukraine and Russia, returning 116 Ukrainians and 63 Russian prisoner of wars back to their respective countries. Andriy Yermak, the Ukrainian president's chief of staff, said: 'We managed to return 116 of our people, defenders of Mariupol, partisans from Kherson, snipers from the Bakhmut [front] and other heroes of ours.' He added: 'In addition, we managed to return the bodies of the dead foreign volunteers - Christopher Matthew [Parry] and Andrew Tobias Matthew Bagshaw, as well as the body of the dead volunteer soldier [...], Yevhenii Olegovich Kulyk.' Chris Parry (L) and Andrew Bagshaw volunteered to help Ukraine's civilian population Bagshaw and Parry were killed during an attempted humanitarian evacuation in eastern Ukraine in January, Parry's family has previously said. The pair moved over to Soledar in the east of the country on 6 January 2023 to volunteer with aid efforts. Ukrainian police reported them missing the following day. Mr Parry, a software engineer from Cornwall, first volunteered in March 2022 and became involved in helping move civilians out of towns close to conflict. His parents said he saved the lives of over 400 people and many abandoned animals. The family of Andrew Bagshaw, a scientific researcher living in New Zealand, said the pair were trying to rescue an elderly woman when their cars were hit by a shell. 'Andrew selflessly took many personal risks and saved many lives; we love him and are very proud indeed of what he did', say his parents, Dame Sue and professor Phil Bagshaw. Chris Parry, pictured, died helping civilians in Soledar, Ukraine, in January this year Andrew Bagshaw, a British/New Zealand national who died saving civilians in Ukraine Captured Russian service personnel near a bus following the latest exchange of prisoners of war at an unknown location in the course of Russia-Ukraine conflict The head of Russia's Wagner Group said last month that his private mercenary forces had found the bodies of one of the aid workers. Mourners held a service in Ukraine for Andrew Bagshaw on 29 January. Fellow volunteers spoke of their memories of the aid worker and read out tributes from his family. Mr Bagshaw's father Phil told reporters in New Zealand that his son wanted to do something to help. 'He was a very intelligent man, and a very independent thinker,' he said. 'And he thought a long time about the situation in Ukraine, and he believed it to be immoral. 'He felt the only thing he could do of a constructive nature was to go there and help people.' Mr Yermak said Ukraine is continuing efforts to bring everyone home. He said the released POWs include troops who held out in Mariupol during Moscow's long siege that reduced the southern port city to ruins, as well as guerrilla fighters from the Kherson region and snipers captured during the ongoing fierce battles for the eastern city of Bakhmut. Russian defence officials, meanwhile, announced that 63 Russian troops had returned from Ukraine following the swap, including some "special category" prisoners whose release was secured following mediation by the United Arab Emirates. Russia's Defence Ministry said the released Russian servicemen included 'sensitive category' persons, whose exchange was made possible through the mediation of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), according to agencies. The British father who left his partner and two children for a Ukrainian refugee has been arrested after a furious row with her, Mail Online can reveal. Tony Garnett was detained by police last night at the Bradford cottage they share after neighbours called in the police. Mr Garnett, 30, was held in a cell at Bradford police station and released early today. Sources said he was hauled into police custody after local residents became concerned about Mr Garnetts raised voice while he was with his lover Sofiia Karkadym. Tony Garnett (right), the British father who left his partner and two children for Ukrainian refugee Sofiia Karkadym (left), has been arrested after a furious row with his new lover Mr Garnett was detained by police last night at the Bradford cottage he shares with Ms Karkadym after neighbours called in the police. The couple are pictured together MailOnline was told that the heated argument was centred on time he has been spending with his two daughters. He was playing an online video game with his six-year-old daughter when shouting and swearing broke out between them. Police arrived to find a tense situation between them and Mr Garnett in an angry state and arrested him for a possible breach of the peace. But after they were satisfied he had calmed down he was released after more than six hours in custody. The couple, who separated and then got back together, were back under the same roof this afternoon, but declined to comment. But the source said: Tony loves his daughters to bits and Sofiia has done her best to try and be understanding about that. But she is young and wants her own children with Tony. But he has had a vasectomy and that has caused endless tension. Police arrived to find a tense situation between the couple and Mr Garnett (pictured in October 2022) in an angry state and arrested him for a possible breach of the peace The couple, who separated and then got back together, were back under the same roof this afternoon, but declined to comment. They are pictured together in December 2022 They are not in a position to even think about having children together as the relationship is quite new, but that problem is always there. There is uncertainty about what they will do next, but the fact that neither of them can work at the moment doesnt help. Mr Garnett, who has been featured on TV and in magazines and newspapers, says he cant get work in security which he has done for most of his life, because he has a public profile and is recognised. He has told MailOnline about his love for the refugee and that he was considering having the vasectomy reversed. Mr Garnett said: Yeah I was arrested but I did nowt wrong. I may have shouted a bit but that was it. Ms Karkadym, 22, has also been arrested in the past (pictured) for turning up at Mr Garnett's home after he broke off the relationship Ms Karkadym, 22, has also been arrested in the past for turning up at his home after he broke off the relationship. But she was heard telling police last night that she did not want him to be charged as officers took him into custody. Mr Garnett has talked openly about his love for his children and said his relationship with their mother Lorna was long over before his new love moved into their home After he moved out to be with Ms Karkadym ten days after her arrival, he had been the subject of a 'non-molestation' order. But a judge removed the ban on him after hearing how he missed his children and that he had split with his new love She flew back to the war-torn country and to her family after Tony ended the relationship, only for him to fly to Ukraine and help bring her back. But the tension over him spending time and devoting attention to his daughters has re-surfaced. After he split with her, he told MailOnline: 'One of the main reasons I split with Sofiia was because she hated the fact that I had two daughters I would always talk about them. She's not a mother, so she would not understand. 'She used to say things like "you love the children more than me." And she was absolutely right.' Mr Garnett (left) and Ms Karkadym (not pictured) struck up an affair last May after she arrived at the home he shared with his wife Lorna Garnett (right) He and Ms Karkadym struck up an affair last May after she arrived at the home he shared with Lorna after she fled the Russian invasion of her country. They admitted that they were attracted to each other and moved out of the family home and in with his parents before finding a place to rent. In the early stages of their fling, the pair were blissfully happy and even talked about marriage and spending the rest of their lives together. But the romance turned cold after a series of arguments which he said were caused by her drinking strong beer and throwing temper tantrums. Ms Karkadym admitted that she found the fact difficult that he could not have more children and that he already had two kids with his ex-partner, who he regularly talked fondly about. A Kentucky woman reveals she is 'lovesick' over accused Idaho killer Bryan Kohberger describing him as the 'perfect man for her' and her 'divine masculine counterpart' - and hopes he feels the same way about her. Brittney Hislope, 35, a single mother of a 16-year-old boy, has been writing love letters and sending sultry photos of herself to the alleged killer. Kohberger, 28, has been locked up at the Latah County jail since January 5 after he was formally charged in the fatal stabbing of four college students - Kaylee Goncalves, 21, Madison Mogen, 21, Xana Kernodle, 20, and Ethan Chapin, 20 - November 13 in Moscow, Idaho. He is facing four counts of first-degree murder and a count of felony burglary and is being held without bond. The lovestruck mom began sharing her infatuation with the alleged killer on January 4 in a lengthy 2,550-word post though she has never spoken or met with him. In one post she writes 'one way to describe my feelings for him over the last week or so is kind of like being lovesick.' And in another, she refers to a lovemaking scene in the 1987 vampire film 'The Lost Boys' stating that 'I'd want to be with my love interest Bryan in those ways.' Brittney Hislope, 35, a single mother from Kentucky has been writing love letters and sending sultry photos of herself to alleged killer, Bryan Kohberger Bryan Kohberger has been locked up at the Latah County jail since January 5 after he was formally charged in the fatal stabbing of four college students -Kaylee Goncalves, 21, Madison Mogen, 21, Xana Kernodle, 20, and Ethan Chapin, 20 -November 13 in Moscow, Idaho. He has not entered a plea and his next court date is June 26 In a recent post, she spoke about her 'sensations' and desires and shares previous relationships that she had that didn't work out and calls Kohberger her 'twin flame.' 'With me being deprived of a love and sex life for so long, and only wanting one with someone I truly want wholeheartedly, with my feelings for Bryan I've had to be true to myself in reaching out to him.' She wrote in a post on Friday giving insight on why she feels as she does and how she had added hearts and a pair of lip stickers to his mugshot that she said, 'it penetrated something in me emotionally.' 'Some people may not understand that with Bryan being my love interest that I'm fixated on, I don't think of being with others in the ways that I think of being with him. 'Thoughts of being with him also give me sensations that I wouldn't get when thinking of someone else, because I have deep feelings for Bryan and am fixated on him although I don't know how he feels about me and if there's someone else he wants instead, even though that wouldn't be ideal for my divine masculine counterpart to be that way.' 'Although when I have thoughts of being with him in certain ways it gives me bodily sensations that are real, although you may not understand what I'm meaning, I also feel a love for him that isn't just sexual in nature.' 'As I've me know before, the mugshot of him that I added hearts to and a pair of lip stickers, seeing that picture for the first time affected me, before I added the stickers to it, and it penetrated something in me emotionally.' 'Thoughts of being with him also give me sensations that I wouldn't get when thinking of someone else, because I have deep feelings for Bryan and am fixated on him although I don't know how he feels about me and if there's someone else he wants instead, even though that wouldn't be ideal for my divine masculine counterpart to be that way,' she wrote, in part. The photo is an undated photo of Hislope from her Facebook page A undated photo of Brittney Hislope from her Facebook page Hislope revealed that she added hearts and lip stickers on Kohberger's mugshot seen here A recent post that revealed Hislope's fixation on the accused Idaho killer Hislope calls Koehberger her 'twin flame' and points out the pair both share the same astrological sign Scorpio Hislope talks about the astrological sign they both share, the water sign, Scorpio, and their alleged connection. She also talked about his physique and wondered if he was getting the letters that she was sending. 'I'm not just saying it for the reason of me reading that the Scorpio male has a penetrating gaze, and that's his zodiac sign based on what I know, but I've noticed something penetrating about that photo, and it has also seemed that his eyes have penetrating as well when I've looked at since, but it has felt like he and I are connected in some way when I also feel a penetration from his eyes in that picture. ' 'With him sitting down in the picture I like being able to see more of his body and arms also.' 'I don't like how although it's good that I think of certain possibilities, I don't know if there's any way for Bryan to know about what all I say on here, and then I have the concerns about someone interfering with the letters I mail him, which I hope never happens.' 'But I know if he's my true love then there wouldn't be any woman he'd want to be with like he would with me.' It is unclear if Kohberger has been receiving any of Hislope's heartsick letters in his prison cell. When DailyMail.com reached out to Hislope she did not respond. In 2018, she declared her love to Cody Hall, 33, who was jailed for fatally shooting a 50-year-old man in Pulaski County, Kentucky and attacking the man's sister and another woman with a machete, The New York Post reported A 2019 post Hislope wrote about her feelings for convicted killer Cody Hall In one post she writes 'one way to describe my feelings for him over the last week or so is kind of like being lovesick.' And in another, she refers to a lovemaking scene in the 1987 vampire film 'The Lost Boys' stating that 'I'd want to be with my love interest Bryan in those ways,' she wrote The scene in 'The Lost Boys' that Hislope was referring too pictured actress Jami Gertz (right) nd Jason Patric (left) A post Hislope wrote on Thursday night that declaring her love for the man of her dreams Kohberger has not been the first alleged murderer she has swooned over. In 2018, she declared her love to Cody Hall, 33, who was jailed for fatally shooting a 50-year-old man in Pulaski County, Kentucky and attacking the man's sister and another woman with a machete, The New York Post reported. 'When I say I was in love with him, I mean I was completely and truly in love with him,' Hislope wrote. 'I visited him, put money in his [commissary] account, wrote him letters, and I wanted to be in a loyal, committed [sic] relationship with him.' It was later revealed that Hall had blocked his admirer from visiting him in jail. Kohberger's next scheduled court date is June 26. He has yet to enter a plea deal and continues to maintain his innocence and has said through an attorney, he expects to be exonerated. Bryan Kohberger, left, who is accused of killing four University of Idaho students in November 2022, looks toward his attorney, public defender Anne Taylor, right, during a hearing in Latah County District Court, January 5, 2023, in Moscow, Idaho. Kohberger continues to maintain his innocence and has said through an attorney, he expects to be exonerated Ukraine's security services have hacked into a video call between Moscow and their Ukrainian supporters to tell them they have all been charged with treason - before blasting them with a rendition of the Ukrainian national anthem. A video posted online appears to show a Ukrainian official interrupting a call attended by various representatives for the self-proclaimed Donetsk People's Republic, an area of the Donetsk region currently led by supporters Russian rule. Although not officially verified by government figures, those on the video certainly seemed convinced it was real as they rushed to turn off their cameras and leave the conference call. It comes as the bodies of two Britons were handed over by Russian forces on Saturday as part of a large-scale prisoner swap. In a translation posted underneath the video, the call leader can be heard asking: 'Donetsk People's Republic, who is with us?' The official is said to have hacked into the conference call between Moscow and some of its supporters in the Donetsk region of Ukraine The start of a list of those on the call is then read out, and includes Colleagues, Gortsev Dmitry Anatolyevich, Minister of Internal Affairs, Deputy Minister of Medical Affairs, Martinov and two individuals named as Anastasia and Lenin. Several seconds later, the person filming the meeting interrupts the conference call and announces themselves as a member of Ukraine's Security Services. The man tells those on the call: 'The Security Service of Ukraine has identified and traced all of you. 'You will all be on the international search list from tomorrow. 'You will all be held accountable under Article 111 of the Criminal Code, State treason.' Once the man has finished speaking, the national anthem of Ukraine begins playing loudly. Although difficult to substantiate independently whether this was indeed an operation by the Ukrainian security services those on the Zoom call certainly seemed convinced. Participants quickly turned off their video feeds and began leaving the call, having initially looked somewhat skeptical of the interruption. During the first few seconds of the interruption, those on the call looked confused and skeptical As the official continued making their announcement, more and more of the participants switched off their cameras Attacks have battered the Donetsk region of Ukraine since the war began a year ago (Pictured: Destroyed apartment buildings in Chasiv Yar, Donetsk) By the end of the clip, there was barely anyone left on the call as the Ukrainian anthem continued to play out Russian Defence officials have released video footage they claim shows the return of Russian troops as part of Saturday's prisoner swap Ukrainian servicemen on a tank in the Donetsk region, Saturday February 4 Article 111 of Ukraine's Criminal Code bans the supply of material resources to armed Russian units in temporarily occupied Ukrainian territory, punishing any economic activities in cooperation with Russia are punishable by a fine or imprisonment for three to five years. There are further penalties for citizens of Ukraine who voluntary hold a position related to the performance of organizational, administrative, or economic functions in 'authorities enacted by the occupying power' and who participate in organizing and conducting illegal elections or referendums in the temporarily occupied territory. Even harsher punishment of imprisonment for 1215 years can be imposed on Ukrainians who cooperate with Russian judicial or law enforcement agencies, participate in illegal military formations created by Russia in Ukrainian territory, or assisting in conducting combat operations against the armed forces of Ukraine. The video emerged as it was announced that the bodies of two Brits have been handed over by Russia on Saturday as part of a mass prisoner swap. The bodies of the pair, killed while trying to help people evacuate from fierce fighting in Ukraine, have been recovered, Kyiv officials said on Saturday. Chris Parry, 28, and Andrew Bagshaw, 47, were undertaking voluntary work in Soledar, in the Donetsk region of Ukraine, when their vehicle was reportedly hit by a shell. The two were returned to Ukraine authorities as part of a wider exchange, in which Kyiv got 116 prisoners and Russia 63. 'We managed to return the bodies of the dead foreign volunteers,' said President Volodymyr Zelensky's chief of staff Andriy Yermak, naming them as the two British men. Bagshaw was a scientific researcher in genetics but had volunteered as an aid worker in Ukraine since last April. His remains are expected to be returned to New Zealand where he and his family lived. The Parry family said he had previously worked as a software engineer. Concern had grown about their fates after the head of the Russian mercenary group Wagner, which helped capture Soledar from Ukrainian forces, said on January 11 that one of the missing men's bodies had been found there. Wagner boss Yevgeny Prigozhin had also published online photographs of passports that appeared to belong to Parry and Bagshaw, which he claimed were found with the corpses. A man who was saved by a Coast Guard rescue swimmer near the Columbia River Friday was wanted for a bizarre incident in which police said he left a dead fish at the Oregon, home featured in the classic film, 'The Goonies.' Officers had been looking for the man since Wednesday, when an acquaintance alerted them to a video he posted on social media of himself leaving the fish at the house and then dancing around the property, Astoria Police Chief Stacy Kelly said. Kelly identified the man as Jericho Labonte, 35, of Victoria, British Columbia. Labonte is also wanted in British Columbia on criminal harassment, mischief and failure to comply cases from last fall, Kelly said. In the afternoon, the Coast Guard shared stunning video of a rescue made a few hours earlier in which a rescue swimmer lowered by cable from a helicopter swam to a 35-foot yacht that was struggling in heavy surf. As the swimmer approached the vessel, a large wave slammed into it, rolling the boat over and throwing a man, later identified as Labonte, into the water. A man who was saved by a Coast Guard rescue swimmer near the Columbia River Friday was wanted for a bizarre incident in which police said he left a dead fish at the Oregon, home featured in the classic film , 'The Goonies' The swimmer, Petty Officer 1st Class Branch Walton, of Greenville, South Carolina, reached Labonte and pulled him to safety. The helicopter crew flew him to Coast Guard Base Astoria, where medics treated him for mild hypothermia and transported him to a hospital. The yacht's owner, who lives in nearby Warrenton, Oregon, reported the vessel stolen later Friday, the police chief said. The hospital had already released Labonte when police saw the Coast Guard photos and video and realized it was the same person who they said covered over security cameras at the Goonies house and left the dead fish on the porch. Police were still looking for Labonte Friday evening. Kelly didn't know what kind of fish it was, but said police believed it was caught locally because after the video started circulating another person reported having taken Labonte fishing. 'It's been a really odd 48 hours,' Kelly said. The mouth of the Columbia, the largest North American river flowing into the Pacific Ocean, is known as 'the graveyard of the Pacific' for its notoriously rough seas. Jericho Labonte, 35, of Victoria, British Columbia, was identified as the rescued man. Labonte is also wanted in British Columbia on criminal harassment, mischief and failure to comply cases from last fall, Kelly said As the swimmer approached the vessel, a large wave slammed into it, rolling the boat over and throwing a man, later identified as Labonte, into the water The swimmer, Petty Officer 1st Class Branch Walton, of Greenville, South Carolina, reached Labonte and pulled him to safety. The helicopter crew flew him to Coast Guard Base Astoria, where medics treated him for mild hypothermia and transported him to a hospital (2/4)who launched motor life boats from STA Cape Disappointment, the air crews arrived on scene to find the vessel floundering in the surf! The surf made rescue by boat dangerous, so the aircrew decided to lower the rescue swimmer and have the owner enter the water for rescue pic.twitter.com/z92WvzpTG9 USCGPacificNorthwest (@USCGPacificNW) February 3, 2023 The Coast Guard received the yacht's mayday call around 10 a.m. Friday while conducting trainings nearby, Petty Officer Michael Clark said. The mayday contained no information about location or the specific problem, but the agency roughly triangulated the vessel's location and nearby boat crews and a helicopter responded. They found the P/C Sandpiper yacht taking on water in 20-foot seas, meaning the height of a wave from the previous trough could be as much as 40 feet, Clark said. Walton, who only recently graduated from the Coast Guard's rescue swimmer program, was lowered from the helicopter by a cable. Labonte climbed onto the stern and prepared to enter the water just as a huge wave slammed the craft, throwing him into the surf. The wave struck so violently that the vessel rolled completely over and wound up floating upright. The mouth of the Columbia, the largest North American river flowing into the Pacific Ocean, is known as 'the graveyard of the Pacific' for its notoriously rough seas The mayday contained no information about location or the specific problem, but the agency roughly triangulated the vessel's location and nearby boat crews and a helicopter responded Officers had been looking for Labonte since Wednesday, when an acquaintance alerted them to a video he posted on social media of himself leaving the fish at the house and then dancing around the property, Astoria Police Chief Stacy Kelly said Walton said in an interview Friday that he planned to reach the man, get him in the water and hook him to a cable attached to the helicopter. Instead, the wave hit. 'I kind of got thrown around a little bit by the wave. When I came up I noticed the boat was pretty much in shambles,' Walton said. He directed the helicopter to bring him to Labonte after spotting him in the surf a short distance away. The force of the wave had mostly knocked off his life jacket, Walton said. A Kansas City entrepreneur and self-described superfan of the 1985 cult classic bought the Oregon house made famous by the film in January. Behman Zakeri, 37, bought the $1.65million property in Astoria, Oregon in an attempt to keep it as a shrine to the beloved family movie. 'The reason I'm buying it is for the community,' Zakeri said. 'Somebody's got to be the caretaker, somebody's got to preserve the landmark. Somebody has to keep it original and not get demoed.' Heartbroken partner said she wont find anyone like him again after her partner dies from a stab attack after a suspect was remnanded in custody. Sudanese-born Adam Ali Ibrahim, 36, died in hospital after he was stabbed in Fairfax Street near Castle Park, Bristol on January, 31. His partner, Marie Radford, said: 'We were together for six years. I loved Ad, I won't find anyone else like him again. 'He had a good heart and I don't want anyone else. He was a nice guy and a lot of people liked him. I am going to miss him every day and every night.' Ronaldo Griffiths, 20, who is accused of murdering Mr Ibrahim, appeared before Bristol Magistrates' Court and spoke only to confirm his name, date of birth and address during a brief hearing. Marie Radford said she will never find anyone like her boyfriend again after her partner Adam Ali Ibrahim, 36, died in hospital after he was stabbed in Fairfax Street near Castle Park, Bristol on January, 31 Ronaldo Griffiths, 20, who is accused of murdering Mr Ibrahim, appeared before Bristol Magistrates' Court Griffiths, who wore a grey tracksuit, is also accused of attempted grievous bodily harm of Ahmed Osman during the same incident and possession of an offensive weapon, namely a machete. The defendant, of Osprey Road, Redfield, Bristol was told that as he was charged with murder magistrates could not consider bail and would remand him into custody. He was not asked to enter pleas to the three charges, and they were sent to Bristol Crown Court for trial. Presiding justice Simon Brooks said: 'Do you understand this is a procedural hearing and we have no right other than to remand you into custody? 'You will next appear at Bristol Crown Court on February, 6.' A post-mortem examination found Mr Ibrahim died from a stab wound. Four other people have been arrested during the investigation. A 36-year-old man and a 23-year-old man, who had been arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender, have both been released on police bail. Avon and Summerset police confirmed that the cause of death was a stab wound, following the post-mortem examination Local police said theincident occurred at around 4.25pm, shortly before the fatal stabbing Police officers were looking at the scene at Castle Park where a man was stabbed and later died February, 1, 2023 Local police said an incident occurred between two groups of men at Castle Park at around 4.25pm, shortly before the fatal stabbing. Police and paramedicshad been called to the scene following reports of a knifing. Adam Ali Ibrahim was reportedly then found by a member of the public at around 4.30pm that afternoon. Last year, the Bristol city centre was named one of the 'most dangerous' places in the UK. The city centre was ranked as the 47th most dangerous place in England and Wales during the year ending January 2022, crime figures revealed. The west country city recorded 53,783 crimes in 2021-22, a significant increase from the 46,988 crimes recorded in the year prior, according to the JSNA Health and Wellbeing Profile. Violence against the person represented 36 per cent of all recorded crimes in 2021-22 with 19,313 offences, followed by 8,513 theft offences (or 15.8 per cent of all crime) and 8,070 public order offences (15 per cent of all crime). Data shows that 19.4 per cent of Bristol residents say the fear of crime impacts their day-to-day life. A drug more threatening than cocaine or heroin could soon flood into Europe after killing more than 100,000 people in the United States, a report has warned. Synthetic fentanyl could be the new face of the drugs war, with fears raised following a number of recent drug raids in Europe. The highly-addictive drug - 100 times more potent than morphine - is one of the most common drugs involved in overdose deaths, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse. Belgium could now be positioned at the centre of its trade, being the main arrival point for narcotics, The Times reports. Kristian Vanderwaeren, Head of Customs Service at Brussels airport, told the newspaper that 'fentanyl is the cocaine of the future'. A drug more threatening than cocaine or heroin could soon flood into Europe after killing over 100,000 people in the United States, reports warn (file image) He suggested that while only 10g of fentanyl was seized at the airport last year, it should not be underestimated, with warnings that it is more dangerous than cocaine and heroin. 'And as is often the case with new drugs: first it drips, but then the floodgates open,' he added. The United States is already facing a fentanyl epidemic, causing 1,500 deaths every week in 2021. While the drug has often been used by cancer patients seeking relief from pain, its potency has made it a popular illicit street drug. It started off as a cheap and potent alternative to heroin which could be injected or smoked through a pipe. But its cheap manufacturing costs have made it the go-to cutting agent for cartels and drug dealers in the US looking to stretch their supply. This image from Mexico's national defense forces shows a makeshift drugs lab in northwest Mexico, where officers discovered precursor chemicals, fentanyl paste, weapons and drug making gear, from November 2021 The drug was initially produced in India and China and mailed to recipients across North America. Makeshift labs have since sprung up in Mexico to receive the precursor chemicals from Asia, mix them or press them into pills, and smuggle them into the US Now, it is found in everything from cocaine to molly and street benzodiazepines like Xanax. The frighteningly strong drug can kill at doses of just 2 milligrams of fentanyl - or the equivalent of five grains of salt. Dr Nora Volkow, director of the National Institute on Drug Abuse, said in December: 'Substance use is more dangerous than it has ever been, as fentanyl has continued to permeate the illicit drug supply, increasing the risk for overdoses among both people with substance use disorders as well as those who use drugs occasionally.' The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates there were 109,673 overdose deaths in the year to April a new record. Many were due to fentanyl, pictured A European coalition against illicit drugs is to take place in April, which will see US security agencies join the Belgian justice minister, Vincent Van Quickenborne in talks about the issue. Around 5,800 overdose deaths took place in the European Union during 2020, a monitoring report outlined. Mr Van Quickenborne told The Times that while the drug has not arrived en masse to Europe yet, it is important to be 'very very vigilant'. The two dozen members of SEAL Team 6 that killed ISIS leader Bilal al-Sudani last month practiced their raid in a similar manner to the commandos who conducted the successful raid on Osama bin Laden's compound in 2011. The details of operation raid that killed al-Sudani, responsible for the Kabul airport bombing in 2021 that claimed the lives of 13 US troops, were first revealed in a report from The New York Times. The raid was approved by President Joe Biden. According to the report, the SEAL Team 6 members rehearsed the raid extensively before heading aboard Army MH-47 Chinook helicopters, which are operated by a team known as the Night Stalkers, to a non-descript US Navy ship that was resting off of the coast of northern Somalia. From there, the team landed 'some distance' from al-Sudani's cavernous layer in an area known as Puntland so as not to set of warnings. The group then engaged with the ISIS fighters in the region, killing ten, not including al-Sudani. The firefight lasted for an hour. The al-Qaeda off-shoot al-Shabab has a much larger footprint in Somalia than ISIS. There are thought to be less than 300 members of the Islamic State in the troubled east African country Following the raid, the commandos recovered a 'trove of material' that included laptops and cell phones that could be linked to future ISIS operations. The al-Qaeda off-shoot al-Shabab has a much larger footprint in Somalia than ISIS. There are thought to be less than 300 members of the Islamic State in the troubled east African country. No civilians were injured or killed in the operation, Pentagon officials said. One American involved in the operation was bitten by a military dog, but was not seriously hurt. The Times report details that it was only when US intelligence figures learned of al-Sudani's role in the Kabul bombing as well as his activities in fund-raising for ISIS in Europe, Asia and Africa, that he became top of the catch-or-kill list. In reference to the Kabul airport bombing, a US official told the Times: 'Al-Sudani helped to put money in the pockets of the same elements of ISIS-K responsible for Abbey Gate.' That attack was perpetrated by ISIS-K, the group's arm in Afghanistan. Al-Sudani had originally been designated the Treasury Department in 2012 for his role with al-Shabab, another terrorist organization operating in Somalia. He helped foreign fighters travel to an al-Shabab training camp and facilitated financing for violent extremists in Somalia, according to a senior administration official. In addition to the Bin Laden raid, the operation that killed al-Sudani was also similar to the May 2015 killing of ISIS' 'emir of oil and gas,' Abu Sayyaf. Following Sudani's death, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said: 'This action leaves the United States and its partners safer and more secure, and it reflects our steadfast commitment to protecting Americans from the threat of terrorism at home and abroad.' A Taliban fighter stands guard at the site of the August 26 twin suicide bombs, which killed scores of people including 13 US troops Biden was briefed a week before the raid which came together after months of planning Biden was briefed a week before the raid which came together after months of planning. The president gave final approval to carry out the operation this week following the recommendation of Austin and the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Army Gen. Mark Milley. The U.S. Treasury Department alleged last year that al-Sudani had worked closely with another IS operative, Abdella Hussein Abadigga, who had recruited young men in South Africa and sent them to a weapons training camp. Abadigga, who controlled two mosques in South Africa, used his position to extort money from members of the mosques. Al-Sudani considered Abadigga a trusted supporter who could help the IS supporters in South Africa become better organized and recruit new members. Few details were known about the raid prior to the Times report, an official did say at the time that the forces behind the operation had determined that it was 'feasible' to capture al-Sudani. The operation came days after Africa Command said it had conducted a collective self-defense strike northeast of Mogadishu, the capital, near Galcad. In that incident, Somalia National Army forces were engaged in heavy fighting following an extended and intense attack by more than 100 al-Shabab fighters. The U.S. estimated approximately 30 al-Shabab fighters were killed in that operation. The offensive by Somalian forces against al-Shabab has been described as the most significant in more than a decade. The Democratic Party ousted Iowa and New Hampshire as the lead states in a major shake-up of its 2024 presidential primary aimed at boosting the black vote and benefiting Joe Biden's expected bid for a second term. At its annual meeting in Philadelphia, the Democratic National Committee approved a new primary calendar - backed by Biden - that will see South Carolina hold its 2024 presidential primary first on Feb. 3, followed by Nevada and New Hampshire on Feb. 6, Georgia on Feb. 13 and then Michigan on Feb. 27. The new system, Democrats argue, gives better positioning to states whose demographics better reflect the base of the Democratic Party. It also ends decades of political tradition. 'The Democratic Party looks like America and so does this proposal,' said Democraticy Party Chairman Jaime Harrison ahead of the vote, adding it 'elevates the backbone of our party.' But it also benefits Biden, who, in the 2020 primary, came in fifth in New Hampshire. His victory in South Carolina - thanks to black voters who flocked to his side after he was endorsed by influential black Rep. Jim Clyburn - saved his presidential bid and put him on the path to winning the nomination. Biden has not formally announced his re-election but is expected to do so in the new few months. He has given signals he intends to seek a second term. The new calendar faces challenges, however, and is not guaranted to be ultimately enacted as designed. President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris stand on stage with DNC chair Jaime Harrison at the Democratic National Committee winter meeting on Friday Republicans have no intention of changing their order - meaning Iowa and New Hampshire will still hold the first contests on the GOP side. Additionally, New Hamsphire has a state law that requires it to hold a first-in-the-nation primary. States with early contests have a major influence in determining the nominee because White House hopefuls struggling to raise money or gain political traction often drop out within the first five contests. New Hampshire state Democratic party chair Raymond Buckley told DailyMail.com ahead of the vote that he's worried Republicans in his state won't agree to change the state law and it can't legally be done without GOP support. He voiced the concerns of many New Hampshire Democrats - that the GOP won't agree to change their law and Biden, in a symbolic move, could choose not to run in the New Hampshire primary but instead focus on South Carolina. That wouldn't stop any other Democratic candidate - from lawmaker to political novice - from filing the $1,500 fee to run in the primary. Marianne Williamson, for example, who was a breakout candidate in 2020, has said she intends to run again. 'We don't think it's a good look,' Buckley said, imagining a scenario on primary night where the 'evening news starts off with Donald Trump came from behind and defeated [Ron] DeSantis on the Republican side and, then on the Democratic side, you know, a housekeeper from Oregon wins. I'm not sure everybody thought that through.' Trump has already started campaigning in New Hampshire, appearing at an event there on Saturday. Buckley had warned Democratic leaders in a letter that changing the primary calendar can 'create an opening for an insurgent candidate serious or not who can garner media attention and capitalize on Granite Stater's anger about being passed over by [Biden's] campaign.' The DNC is looking at giving New Hampshire until June to amend its law although, again, it's unclear if Republicans in the state will support such a move. Buckley sounded hopeful that something could be worked out over the next year before any voting actually begins. 'The bottom line to me is that I want to be successful in the general election in November 2024. That's what matters,' he said, adding he wants to see Biden win another term in the White House. On Saturday, members of the Democratic National Committee will vote on a new primary calendar that moves South Carolina's contest ahead of New Hampshire, a move that has New Hampshire Democratic Party Chairman Ray Buckley (right) worried Republicans will keep their New Hampshire primary calendar date; Donald Trump campaigned in Salem, N.H., on Saturday New Hampshire's lawmakers have been lobbying Biden on the issue. Democratic Rep. Annie Kuster told DailyMail.com she has spoken to President Biden and argued for her state's prime positioning on the calendar. She said she told him that 'he shouldn't hesitate to come on up' to visit the state. And New Hampshire Democratic Senators Jeanne Shaheen and Maggie Hassan sat out the White House congressional ball in December to protest the issue. Bu Biden has been vocal in his support for the new system. He wrote the DNC rules committee in December, saying, 'We must ensure that voters of color have a voice in choosing our nominee much earlier in the process and throughout the entire early window.' That committee approved the new lineup, setting the stage for Saturdays vote. The move marks a dramatic shift from the current calendar, which saw Iowa start with its caucus, followed by New Hampshire and then Nevada and South Carolina. Four of the first five states under the new plan are battlegrounds, meaning the eventual party winner would be able to lay groundwork in important general election spots. Thats especially true for Michigan and Georgia, both of which voted for Republican Donald Trump in 2016 before flipping to Biden in 2020. The exception is South Carolina, which hasnt backed a Democrat in a presidential race since 1976, leading some to argue that the party shouldnt be concentrating so many early primary resources there. But the states population is nearly 27 percent black, and African American voters represent Democrats most consistent base of support. Iowa and New Hampshire are each more than 90 percent white. 'It shows that the president of the United States has demonstrated his respect for and appreciation of South Carolina,' South Carolina Rep. Jim Clyburn, assistant Democratic leader in the House and a close Biden ally, told The Associated Press. The revamped calendar could be largely meaningless for 2024 because Biden is expected to run for a second term without a major primary challenge. Also, the DNC has already pledged to revisit the voting calendar before the 2028 presidential election. Still, this years changes could establish precedent, just as a new lineup that moved Nevada and South Carolina into the first states to vote did when the DNC approved a new primary calendar before the 2008 presidential election. 'These things may be symbolic, but theyre realistic,' Clyburn said, noting the partys typical revisiting of the calendar before each cycle. 'This is not unusual.' Republicans blasted Biden and Democrats for causing 'chaos' in the primary system. 'The RNC unanimously passed its rules over a year ago and solidified the traditional nominating process the American people know and understand. The DNC has decided to break a half-century precedent and cause chaos by altering their primary process, and ultimately abandoning millions of Americans in Iowa and New Hampshire,' Republican National Committee Chairwoman Ronna McDaniel said in a statement. The revamped order follows technical glitches that caused Iowas 2020 caucus to meltdown. It also gives Biden the chance to repay South Carolina, where he scored a decisive 2020 primary win that revived his presidential campaign after losses in Iowa, New Hampshire and Nevada. Democrats have worked on overhauling their primary lineup for months. Sixteen states and Puerto Rico made presentations before the rules committee last summer on why each should be allowed to go first - or at least join the new top five. Saturdays vote, which came during three days of DNC meetings, does not fully end the wrangling over the matter. 'We have created an opportunity for other states to take a run at the pre-window,' said Scott Brennan, a rules committee member from Iowa South Carolina, Nevada and Michigan have met party requirements to join the partys new top five. But in Georgia, Republican Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger has said he would be unwilling to change his states Democratic presidential primary without the GOP moving its primary, which has not yet happened. President Joe Biden walks off the stage after speaking at the Democratic National Committee winter meeting on Friday New Democratic rules include penalties for states that attempt to jump ahead of others, including possibly losing delegates to the partys national convention. 'Heres the reality, no one state should have a lock on going first,' said Michigan Rep. Debbie Dingell. No major challenger has yet emerged from his own party to run against Biden for president next year. Still, top New Hampshire Democrats have warned that another Democrat could run in an unsanctioned primary the state stages and, if Biden skips it in accordance with party rules, could win and embarrass the president - prolonging a primary process that wasnt supposed to be competitive. That's 'something no one in this room wants to see,' Dowdell said, though she warned it could happen. Secretary Deb Haaland's daughter is a high-ranking member of a radical environmentalist group that attended and organized protests at a week-long event in Washington DC in October 2021 that culminated in outbreaks of violence and arrests at the Department of the Interior that were 'reminiscent of January 6th.' Somah Haaland, 28, who is non-binary, identifies as 'queer' and uses they/them pronouns, is listed as the media organizer of the Pueblo Action Alliance on the group's website. In 2021, Haaland joined their group in protesting the Biden administration's environmental policies in Washington DC. The PAA has long called for the government to protect indigenous land against oil and gas drilling. Their mother was named as the Secretary of the Interior in December 2020 and in doing so became the first Native American to serve as a Cabinet secretary. Somah Haaland, 28, who is non-binary, identifies as 'queer' and uses they/them pronouns, is listed as the media organizer of the Pueblo Action Alliance on the group's website At the time of the protest, Haaland posted photos showing the protests on their Instagram page. They wrote in the caption: 'What an honor it was to march with my Pueblo kin last week for #Peoplevsfossilfuels week of action. Indigenous people are so powerful, especially when we join together and share our stories.' Shortly after the protest, Haaland posted a statement on Instagram in which they sought to distance themselves from their mother. They said in part: 'I have my own life and I am politically involved my own way that is separate from my mother. I have no influence or control over anything that she does.' Haaland added: 'I have Major Depressive Disorder and am neuro divergent in other ways.' Prior to the protest, Haaland's group said in a statement: 'We will no longer allow the U.S. government to separate us from our relationship to the sacred knowledge of Mother Earth and all who depend on her [...] We will not back down until our natural balance is restored.' Secretary Haaland said in a Facebook post on her daughter's 25th birthday: 'Im happy to have raised a compassionate human being, who was born to learn and love.' In addition to their Native American heritage, Haaland is of Norwegian descent. They are a 2017 graduate of the University of New Mexico with a bachelor's degree in theatre arts. Secretary Haaland has spoken openly about raising her daughter as a single mother, giving birth four days after her graduation, also from the University of New Mexico, in 1994. Secretary Deb Haaland raised her daughter as a single mother, giving birth four days after graduating from the University of New Mexico The protest that Haaland's group was involved in resulted in numerous arrests On the week of the protest, Haaland posted multiple photos showing them with the group in DC According to their profile on PAA's website, Haaland is also a poet and artist. The bio says that they have also worked on several political campaigns since high school. It says that Haaland 'passionate about empowering youth' and 'creating art as a form of resistance.' Haaland wrote a 2019 article for Teen Vogue titled: 'How Museums and Historical Spaces Disrespect Native American History.' They wrote in the piece of having tea with Nancy Pelosi, taking a selfie with AOC and meeting actor Mark Ruffalo. In 2021, they narrated the documentary Our Story: The Indigenous Led Fight to Protect Greater Chaco. According to their profile on PAA's website, Haaland is also a poet and artist. The bio says that they have also worked on several political campaigns since high school While in a separate interview with NBC News, Haaland complained of feeling 'isolated' thanks to being both Native American and 'queer' Haaland spoke about perceived racial disparity when it came to how little support Native American communities received during amid the pandemic during an interview with American Theatre. They said: 'It ties into the whole privilege thing. People just assume that everyone in America lives the same way they do. And thats just not true.' During the same interview, Haaland spoke about their mother saying: 'From a very young age, she instilled in me a sense of wanting to do the right thing and make the world a better place. I get to watch her create this ripple effect of change throughout several communities.' While in a separate interview with NBC News, Haaland complained of feeling 'isolated' thanks to being both Native American and 'queer.' They also said that hate crimes involving LGBTQ people on reservations are rarely investigated. Speaking about the scandal involving the protest with Fox News, Protect the Public's Trust Director Michael Chamberlain said: 'The circumstances around the riot at Interior headquarters represent yet another instance in which an administration that promised a return to normalcy is producing anything but. 'Meanwhile, the American publics trust in its government continues its precipitous decline,' he added. Following the protest at the Stewart Lee Udall Main Interior building, police arrested dozens of activists. Video from the event showed members of the group attempting to gain access for the offices. At least one officer was hospitalized. In a statement at the time, Interior Department spokeswoman Melissa Schwartz said: 'Centering the voices of lawful protesters is and will continue to be an important foundation of our democracy. It is also our obligation to keep everyone safe. We will continue to do everything we can to de-escalate while honoring first amendment rights.' The 'war on woke' escalated last night after a senior minister accused education officials of 'abandoning' teachers opposed to pupils changing gender too young. Despite clear advice being issued by the Attorney General six months ago, making it clear that teachers can, for example, refuse to allow a biologically male child, who identifies as a trans girl, to wear a girls' uniform, or to stop the same child from participating in girls' single sex sporting activities, school staff have complained to Whitehall that they are being barred by schools from doing so. The minister told the Mail on Sunday: 'Many teachers feel that they want to do more to push the stop button when they see children questioning their gender, and it is clear that they have the legal right to do so, but they feel under pressure to keep quiet. They are being abandoned.' It comes amid growing tensions in both the Tory and Labour parties over transgender rights, and against the backdrop of a row between Westminster and the SNP after the UK government blocked controversial Scottish laws making it easier for people to legally change gender. The legal position on 'gender reassignment' was set out last August by Home Secretary Suella Braverman, who was then the Attorney General, in which she made clear that teachers were not under an obligation to treat children who questioned their gender 'according to their preference from preferred pronouns to use of facilities and competing in schools'. A senior minister accused education officials of 'abandoning' teachers opposed to pupils changing gender too young. Pictured: Trans rights demonstrators protest outside Downing Street, January 21, 2023 Gillian Keegan has publicly backed trans campaigners who say children of 16 should be old enough to change their legal gender without parental consent. Pictured: The Education Secretary leaves Downing Street, January 31, 2023 Ms Braverman added: 'All this is sometimes taking place without informing their parents or taking into account the impact on other children. Anyone who questions such an approach is accused of transphobia....teachers who socially transition a child without the knowledge or consent of parents or without medical advice increase their exposure to a negligence claim for breach of their duty of care to that child'. But, six months later, many teachers who try to cite that legal position are still being told by the Department for Education that they can't intervene until they have issued their own guidance. Last night, a spokesman for Education Secretary Gillian Keegan said that the guidance would be issued later this year. Ms Keegan has publicly backed trans campaigners who say children of 16 should be old enough to change their legal gender without parental consent. When Schools minister Nick Gibb was asked last week about the delay in issuing direct guidance to schools he said: 'The Department recognises that this is a complex and sensitive subject for schools to navigate, which is why it is developing guidance to support schools in relation to transgender pupils. 'The guidance will cover a set of relevant topics. It is important that the Department considers a wide range of views to ensure the guidance is right. As such, the Department has committed to holding a full public consultation on the draft guidance, prior to publication.' The department has committed to put any new rules to a public consultation, allowing trans rights lobbying groups to swamp Whitehall with objections that further delay the introduction of the new guidelines. Schools across the country report a growing number of children who say they are transgender, meaning they say their gender identity differs from their biological sex. For those born female, there are worries this can lead to hormone treatment and eventually surgery to remove breasts and wombs. Some parents also worry that schools are taking at face value claims by male-born pupils to be female and allowing them access to girls' toilets and changing rooms. Many teachers say the legal position on such issues is unclear, and local education authorities are often influenced by trans-rights campaign groups who tell them that schools are legally obliged to accept pupils' claims about gender at face value and not involve parents. Demonstrators hold placards as they take part in a protest march for trans rights and to show their support for the Scottish gender reform bill, London, January 21, 2022 Hundreds of LGBT activists and their allies protest against the blocking of gender reform laws in Scotland at Downing Street on January 18, 2023 Trans rights activists protest outside the Ministry of Defence Main Building in Whitehall on January 17, 2023 The Safe Schools Alliance, a campaign group of parents and teachers, said that the Department for Education foot-dragging meant that many schools were taking an approach on gender issues which was bad for children. A spokesperson said: 'We get many emails from teachers who are also struggling and are fearful for their jobs if they complain. A school's first duty towards its pupils is to safeguard them all. If schools had always followed a 'safeguarding first' approach they would have deployed professional curiosity when first confronted with children adopting opposite sex and other identities. 'A widespread failure to use a holistic approach and deal with this phenomenon under safeguarding, while considering what else was going on in children's lives, particularly online, has led to a national medical and safeguarding scandal.' In her statement, Ms Braverman said that teachers should be aware that 'it can be lawful for a school to refuse to allow a biologically male child, who identifies as a trans girl, to wear a girls' uniform... for a school to refuse a biologically and legally male child who identifies as a trans girl from participating in girls' single sex sporting activities' [and] 'parents do have the right to know what is being taught to their children'. There have been multiple cases recently where schools have refused to tell parents what their children are being taught about trans issues. Transgender guidance for schools has been available to teachers north of the border for some time. It is extremely controversial, stating that children as young as four can change their gender at school without their parents' consent. Education Secretary Gillian Keegan leaving Downing Street after a Cabinet meeting, January 31, 2023 The legal position on 'gender reassignment' was set out last August by the then Attourney General Suella Braverman. Pictured: Home Secretary Suella Braverman speaks in the House of Commons, January 17, 2023 This comes against the backdrop of a row between Westminster and the SNP after the UK government blocked controversial Scottish laws making it easier for people to legally change gender. Pictured: First Minister Nicola Sturgeon in Glasgow, January 30, 2023 The Scottish Government advice says any pupil who decides they want to switch gender must be supported and listened to. It reads: 'Some young people are exploring their gender identity in primary school settings. Primary schools need to be able to meet the needs of these young people to ensure they have a safe, inclusive and respectful environment in which to learn.' A section on 'changing name and recorded sex' says children simply need to tell others informally that they want to use a different name, and that they don't need to record this formally on their official school record. Advice to school staff on what to do if a child wants to discuss their gender includes asking 'what name and pronoun you should use to address them'. It also says that they should ask if their family are aware they are considering their gender identity - but does not suggest the teacher should contact them. The guidance document also states that no Scottish law compels people to use the toilets that correspond to the gender they were assigned at birth. Some children are able to play sport at school as the opposite sex. A Department for Education spokesman said: 'We recognise these are complex and sensitive matters to navigate, and each case will be different, but schools should work with parents, pupils and public services to decide what is best for individual children. 'Our job is to support schools and that is why the Education Secretary is working closely with the Women and Equalities Minister to provide guidance and we plan to consult on a draft before final publication.' A man found dead in a Canvey Island car park may have been the victim of 'a targeted attack', murder detectives have said. Essex Police said the man, in his 40s, was found injured in the car park next to Iceland in Furtherwick Road, in the early hours of Saturday. Officers were called just before 1.45am and it is believed he had been assaulted near to The Haystack pub a short time earlier. Emergency services responded, but he died at the scene. Detective Chief Inspector Greg Wood, who is leading the investigation, said: 'We believe those involved had been inside The Haystack pub earlier in the evening A man found dead in a Canvey Island car park may have been the victim of 'a targeted attack' The man, in his 40s, was found injured in the car park next to Iceland in Furtherwick Road Murder detectives believe that the victim was assaulted near to The Haystack pub earlier 'I believe that someone who was in the pub, or lives locally, will know the identity of those responsible and I urge anyone to contact us or Crimestoppers with the information they have. 'At this stage I believe the assault was a targeted attack and this incident does not pose a threat to the wider public.' He described the murder investigation as 'progressing well', and detectives are 'building a picture of the circumstances which led up to this fatal assault'. A police cordon was erected in an area surrounding Furtherwick Road and Long Road and people were warned to expect disruption throughout Saturday. Mr Wood said police would still be working at the scene on Sunday, but it is hoped the size of the cordon could be reduced later today (Saturday). He added: 'However, I expect a cordon to remain in place until tomorrow as our inquiries progress. 'I know this has caused disruption to the centre of Canvey today, but it has been to allow essential work to take place and I want to thank the public for their patience and understanding.' Police are asking anyone who has information, CCTV, dash cam or other footage in relation to this incident to call 101, quoting incident 124 of February 4. Alternatively, visit online at www.essex.police.uk/digital101 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. The city of San Diego has long been known as a hub of military activity, but even its residents were a bit shocked by some of the low flying helicopters cruising around the city this week. San Diego residents took to social media to report loud booms along with the choppers throughout the week. The United States Army was conducting 'realistic environment' training in the California city. Camp Pendleton in San Diego had warned people in the city that they would be training from January 28 to February 5. The 'realistic' style of training is meant to be a way to put soldiers in an intense environment that is still low risk and largely cost-friendly. The city of San Diego has long been known as a hub of military activity, but even its residence were a bit shocked by some of the low flying helicopters cruising around the city this week Low-flying helicopters doing "military drills" in San Diego last night. Prepping for WW3? pic.twitter.com/70ZDat421M (@TheSocrateej) February 3, 2023 'Hybrid training environments combining a physical structure with a synthetic training environment can provide realism and repeatable training opportunities,' Army Technology said of the practice. Especially loud noises were heard on Tuesday night in the Serra Mesa section of San Diego. Local police confirmed the explosions came from a now closed electronic building in the neighborhood, according to NBC San Diego. Lt. Col. Mike Burns, a spokesman for U.S. Army Special Operations Command, said that 100 soldiers were working on 'coordinated, essential air & ground mobility operations and close-quarter combat training' in a statement. 'The training consisted of air and ground mobility operations and close-quarter combat training to enhance soldiers' skills by operating in a realistic environment,' he added. 'Different environments provide new and different training experiences. Training off of a military installation offers more realism and greater training value. Safety precautions were in place to protect participants, and planning considerations were taken to minimize impact to the community.' On Twitter this past week, the locals were clearly not expecting quite a noisy training session. San Diego residents took to social media to report loud booms along with the choppers throughout the week Local police confirmed the explosions came from a now closed electronic building in the neighborhood San Diego is home to a total of seven different military bases, with the armed forces being one of the city's main economic drivers One person, who captured the action on video, wrote: 'Low-flying helicopters doing 'military drills' in San Diego last night. Prepping for WW3?' Another was baffled and looking for answers: 'Ok downtown San Diego, who has info on these terrifying pitch black helicopters?' A user who goes by the handle Big Red added: 'Legitimately thought we had started a war. 5 military helicopters buzz LOW over the house. Followed by bomb-like booms a few min later. #SanDiego.' San Diego is home to a total of seven different military bases, with the armed forces being one of the city's main economic drivers. British Special Forces on highly sensitive airborne operations could be grounded for two years if controversial plans to replace their famous Hercules aircraft go ahead, it was claimed last night. MPs and veterans raised the alarm that elite forces might be unable to mount some key missions until the replacement Airbus A400M Atlas is fully adapted to their requirements in 2025. They fear that would include high-altitude parachuting as well as low-level drops of fast attack boats. Now, Ministers and defence bosses are being urged to give the C-130 Hercules a stay of execution until its successor is capable of meeting what the SAS and SBS need. Tobias Ellwood, Tory chairman of the Commons Defence Committee, said: 'It would be a major security error if the decision to drop the Hercules was not reversed. British Special Forces on highly sensitive airborne operations could be grounded for two years if controversial plans to replace their famous Hercules aircraft (pictured: C-130 Hercules) go ahead, it was claimed last night MPs and veterans raised the alarm that elite forces might be unable to mount some key missions until the replacement Airbus A400M Atlas (pictured) is fully adapted to their requirements in 2025 'The niche SF [Special Forces] capabilities developed around this proven workhorse cannot be easily replicated with the larger A400M.' Former SAS member Mal Stewart told The Mail on Sunday the A400M was 'big, noisy and simply not suited to low-level covert operations' and said pressing ahead with it was 'a bonkers move'. Former Guards officer and Tory MP Richard Drax warned RAF chiefs last week that the changeover was 'affecting our military effectiveness' and urged them, for the sake of SF members who 'risk their lives for us', to keep the Hercules for another two years. Ministry of Defence sources dismissed fears of any short-term threat to SAS effectiveness yesterday. However, RAF chiefs told MPs last week that 'a small number of niche capabilities' will not be available with the A400M when it finally takes over in June. At the Defence Committee hearing, Mr Ellwood claimed it was 'to save money'. Air Marshal Sir Richard Knighton appeared to agree but warned that the Hercules 'needed a very significant fatigue modification and upgrade'. He stressed that the RAF was 'very plain with what those niche capabilities were and what the potential operational impact is', and that Ministers had concluded 'that level of operational risk was small enough to be tolerable'. Last night, a Ministry of Defence spokesman said: 'The Atlas A400M is a versatile aircraft, offering the opportunity to approach those tasks carried out by the C-130, including military parachuting, in a different manner, so will not simply replicate how the C-130 currently delivers the mission set. 'The RAF is working at pace to ensure the military effect delivered by the C-130 is either replicated through A400M or delivered in a different way by this more modern and capable aircraft.' Labour warned that scrapping Hercules without a 'proper replacement' would make it harder to carry out Special Forces operations. Shadow Defence Secretary John Healey said: 'There are growing questions over whether our forces are well enough equipped to carry out their vital work.' The downing of the Chinese spy balloon off the coast of South Carolina on Saturday marked the first time that the US military has shot down a foreign aircraft over American soil since World War II. A military fighter aircraft shot down the floating drone as it flew six nautical miles out over the Atlantic ocean on Saturday, drawing to a close a dramatic saga that shone a spotlight on worsening Sino-U.S. relations. 'We successfully took it down, and I want to compliment our aviators who did it,' President Joe Biden said. Biden said he had issued an order on Wednesday to take down the balloon, but the Pentagon had recommended waiting until it could be done over open water. Not since a Japanese aerial attack on US Navy ships in Dutch Harbor in Alaska in July 1942, when a fighter jet was shot down, has the military been forced to destroy a foreign aerial asset. US Navy personnel inspecting the downed Akutan Zeo in June 1942 The incident has come to be known as Akutan Zero. On June 4 1942, a model 21 Mitsubishi A6M Zero fighter jet, was shot down by anti-aircraft fire from the 206th Coast Artillery Regiment which was defending the harbor. A shot severed the jet's oil line and forced the 19-year-old pilot Tadayoshi Koga in to crash landing in waters around the Akutan Islands in Alaska. Koga died on impact, possibly from a broken neck. The plane meanwhile was recovered in tact and its discovery was referred to as a 'prize almost beyond value to the United States' as it revealed invaluable Japanese military secrets. The Japanese pilots had been ordered to destroy any downed Zero fighters but those on the mission decided not to in this case because they did not know if their comrade was still alive. Between 1942 and 1945, the US Navy's Bureau of Aeronautics performed extensive tests on the jet, establishing its ranges, armor and fuselage structure. It was destroyed during a training accident in 1945, according to the History Channel. Less than a year earlier, US pilots George Welch, then 23, and Kenneth Taylor, then 21, managed to get airborne during the sneak attack on Pearl Harbor and were able to successfully take down at least six Japanese aircraft. In total, five other Air Force planes were able to get off the ground and help to drive the Japanese forces back. For their efforts, Taylor received the Purple Heart for bravery while Welch was nominated for the Medal of Honor but was denied allegedly because he took off without proper authorization, according to History.com. The secrets revealed by the Akutan Zero helped turned the tide in the war in the Pacific in America's favor Less than a year earlier, US pilots George Welch, then 23, and Kenneth Taylor, then 21, managed to get airborne during the sneak attack on Pearl Harbor and were able to successfully take down at least six Japanese aircraft In total, five other Air Force planes were able to get off the ground and help to drive the Japanese forces back For their efforts, Taylor received the Purple Heart for bravery while Welch was nominated for the Medal of Honor but was denied allegedly because he took off without proper authorization In taking out the Chinese balloon, multiple fighter and refueling aircraft were involved in the mission, but only one -- an F-22 fighter jet -- took the shot, using a single AIM-9X missile, a senior US military official said. The shootdown came shortly after the US government ordered a halt to flights in and out of three South Carolina airports, Wilmington, Myrtle Beach and Charleston due to what it said at the time was an undisclosed 'national security effort.' The flights resumed Saturday afternoon. The balloon first entered a US identification zone on Jan. 28, entered Canadian airspace three days later, and then re-entered US airspace on Jan. 31, a U.S. defense official said. US officials had publicly disclosed the balloon's presence over the United States on Thursday. It has since been referred to as a 'clear violation' of US sovereignty. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin first announced the shootdown, saying the balloon was being used by China 'in an attempt to surveil strategic sites in the continental United States.' The GOP has expressed outrage at the presence of the balloon and the lack of transparency from the Biden administration. Republican Rep. Nicole Malliotakis told DailyMail.com 'Communist Chinas surveillance balloon violates international law and threatens our homeland. Its an outrage that the Biden Administration spotted this balloon days ago as it was flying over the Aleutian Islands and did nothing about it.' The recently reelected congresswoman added: 'The president has not even made a comment about this unacceptable act of aggression by the CCP. 'Whether its our border or air space, Congress must take action to protect it, because its clear this President wont,' she continued. While the House Judiciary GOP Twitter account tweeted: 'Joe Biden knew the Chinese spy balloon was coming. Tried to hide it from the American people. Let it fly across the ENTIRE COUNTRY.' The message added: 'And only after the entire country begged him to act, our great military shot it down. Embarrassing. Scary. Sad.' On Friday, Secretary of State Antony Blinken canceled his trip to China at the last minute. In statements on the balloon, the secretary called it an 'irresponsible act' and referred to it as a 'clear violation of U.S. sovereignty and international law.' Blinken, who had been due to depart Washington for Beijing late Friday, said he had told senior Chinese diplomat Wang Yi in a phone call that sending the balloon over the U.S. was 'an irresponsible act and that (Chinas) decision to take this action on the eve of my visit is detrimental to the substantive discussions that we were prepared to have.' The war on woke escalated last night after a senior Minister accused education officials of abandoning teachers opposed to pupils changing gender too young. Teaching staff have complained to Whitehall that schools are preventing them from following Government legal advice which means they can refuse to allow a biologically male child to wear a girls uniform, or stop them from participating in girls-only sports. The Minister told The Mail on Sunday: Many teachers feel that they want to do more to push the stop button when they see children questioning their gender, and it is clear that they have the legal right to do so, but they feel under pressure to keep quiet. They are being abandoned. The row comes amid growing tensions in both the Tory and Labour parties over transgender rights, and against the backdrop of a dispute between Westminster and the SNP after the UK Government blocked controversial Scottish laws making it easier for people to legally change gender. The legal position on gender reassignment was set out last August by Home Secretary Suella Braverman, who was then the Attorney General. Home Secretary Suella Braverman set out the legal position on gender reassignment last August while Attorney General, but one minister said teachers feel 'under pressure' to stay quiet over pupils changing gender too young. Gillian Keegan, Secretary of State for Education, has publicly backed trans campaigners who say children of 16 should be old enough to change their legal gender without parental consent She made it clear that teachers were under no obligation to accommodate children who questioned their gender on issues from preferred pronouns to use of facilities and competing in schools. Ms Braverman added: All this is sometimes taking place without informing their parents or taking into account the impact on other children. 'Anyone who questions such an approach is accused of transphobia. Teachers who socially transition a child without the knowledge or consent of parents or without medical advice increase their exposure to a negligence claim for breach of their duty of care to that child. But, six months later, many teachers who try to cite that legal position are still being told that they cant intervene until the Education Department has issued its own guidance. Last night, a spokesman for Education Secretary Gillian Keegan said it would be issued later this year. Ms Keegan has publicly backed trans campaigners who say children of 16 should be old enough to change their legal gender without parental consent. When Schools Minister Nick Gibb was asked last week about the delay in issuing direct guidance to schools, he said: The department recognises that this is a complex and sensitive subject for schools to navigate, which is why it is developing guidance to support schools in relation to transgender pupils. It is important that the department considers a wide range of views to ensure the guidance is right. 'As such, the department has committed to holding a full public consultation on the draft guidance, prior to publication. However, that consultation will allow trans rights lobbying groups to swamp Whitehall with objections that could further delay the introduction of guidelines. Schools across the country report a growing number of children who say their gender differs from their biological sex. For those born female, there are worries this can lead to hormone treatment and eventually surgery to remove breasts and wombs. The row comes amid growing tensions in both the Tory and Labour parties over transgender rights, and against the backdrop of a dispute between Westminster and the SNP after the UK Government blocked controversial Scottish laws making it easier for people to legally change gender. Pictured: Demonstrators show support for the Scottish gender reform bill last month Some parents also worry that schools are taking at face value claims by male-born pupils to be female and allowing them access to girls toilets and changing rooms. Many teachers say the legal position on such issues is unclear, and local educational authorities are often influenced by trans rights campaign groups who tell them that schools are legally obliged to accept pupils assertions about their gender and not involve parents. The Safe Schools Alliance campaign group said that the Education Departments foot-dragging on issuing guidelines meant that many schools were taking an approach on gender issues which was bad for children. A spokesperson said: We get many emails from teachers who are also struggling and are fearful for their jobs if they complain. A schools first duty towards its pupils is to safeguard them all. If schools had always followed a safeguarding first approach they would have deployed professional curiosity when first confronted with children adopting opposite sex and other identities. A widespread failure to use a holistic approach and deal with this phenomenon under safeguarding, while considering what else was going on in childrens lives, particularly online, has led to a national medical and safeguarding scandal. In her statement, Ms Braverman said that teachers should be aware that it can be lawful for a school to refuse to allow a biologically male child, who identifies as a trans girl, to wear a girls uniform... for a school to refuse a biologically and legally male child who identifies as a trans girl from participating in girls single-sex sporting activities and that parents do have the right to know what is being taught to their children. There have been multiple cases recently where schools have refused to tell parents what their children are being taught about trans issues. Transgender guidance has been available to teachers north of the border for some time, controversially stating that children as young as four can change their gender at school without their parents consent. The advice adds that even primary schools need to be able to meet the needs of these young people to ensure they have a safe, inclusive and respectful environment. One section says children simply need to tell others informally that they want to use a different name, and that they dont need to record this on their official school record. Staff are also advised to ask pupils what name and pronoun they want to use. The advice also says that teachers should ask pupils if their family are aware they are considering their gender identity but does not suggest the teacher should contact them. The guidance document also states that no Scottish law compels people to use the toilets that correspond to their biological sex. Some children are able to play sport at school as the opposite sex. A Department for Education spokesperson said: Each case will be different, but schools should decide what is best for individual children. Our job is to support schools and that is why the Education Secretary is working closely with the Women and Equalities Minister to provide guidance and we plan to consult on a draft before final publication. Jill Biden on Saturday praised her husband Joe Biden's decision to shoot down a Chinese balloon suspected of spying on America. The First Lady, speaking at a clinic that provides free mental health services to active military and veterans, praised the military for its work, including its care to ensure no civilians were injuried. 'We're more aware of the military when we're in times of war, but now we're in times of peace. And, just like this morning, if any of you were watching the TV, where they were following the, you know, the balloon from China, and we saw the effort that our military did,' she said during her visit to the Steven A. Cohen Military Family Clinic at the Veteran's Village of San Diego. 'I felt such a sense of pride about the effort and that our military, you know, shot down the balloon, how coordinated it was, how thoughtful it was, that it was decided to wait until it was over water so that civilians weren't affected,' she added. She said she had spoken to President Biden before she arrived at the event. Jill Biden praised President Biden and military for shooting down Chinese balloon The first lady also spoke of her hopes that incidents like these help Americans keep service members in their thoughts. And she noted she and President Joe Biden pray for the armed services every night at dinner. 'I hope that most Americans - I hope when they watch that they really think just, you know, about our military. I mean, Joe and I think about them every day, we pray for them in our prayers at dinner,' she said. Jill Biden visited the clinic as part of her Joining Forces Initiative, which focuses on all aspects of health and support the members of the military and their families. She said that the decision to add a mental health aspect dates back to the Obama administration, when she and Michelle Obama first started the initiative. Her son Beau, a veteran who died of brain cancer in 2015, suggested adding mental health services. 'We have to support our military in peacetime as well. And when my son Beau was in Iraq, he saw soldiers who were there several times, several deployments, and he saw the effect that war had on the soldiers and when he came home, I can remember we were in the kitchen and I said, Beau, I was telling you about the Joining Forces initiative that Michelle Obama and I started and I said, What do you think we should work on? And he said, Mom, you know, I've seen so many soldiers through so many deployments that he said, I really think you need to work on mental health. And I was struck by that, you know, I just I didn't expect him to say that,' she noted. President Joe Biden also complimented the miltiary for taking down the balloon. An F-22 Raptor out of Langley Air Force base took the balloon down with a single AIM-9X sidewinder missile at 2.38pm, separating its surveillance payload and sending it plummeting towards the ocean off Myrtle Beach. 'I ordered the Pentagon to shoot it down on Wednesday as soon as possible without doing damage to anyone on the ground. They decided that the best time to do that was when it got over water.' 'They successfully took it down it down and I want to compliment our aviators who did it,' he said. The balloon was seen bursting at 2.38pm and its payload - the metal structure carrying its cameras - appeared to have been separated as it plummeted towards the Atlantic off Myrtle Beach Biden (boarding Air Force One this morning in Syracuse, NY) told reporters, 'I told them to shoot it down on Wednesday. They said to me let's wait for the safest place to do it' Footage showed the jet screaming towards the spy aircraft before firing the missile as stunned locals watched from the coast. Defense officials estimated the balloon was about the size of three buses and that any debris field would be substantial. The former commander of a Russian mercenary unit has seen one of his men beaten to death with a sledgehammer on video and two more colleagues shot in public executions. So he knows the terrible fate that awaits him after betrayal and defection. Yet Andrey Medvedev is determined to blow the whistle on the group's atrocities and war crimes in Ukraine. 'I just want to tell the truth to the world and get justice so that the people who were in charge will be punished for what they did,' said the 26-year-old from Siberia. The Wagner Group of mercenaries, co-founded by one of Vladimir Putin's closest allies and allegedly named after Adolf Hitler's favourite composer, is accused of some of Russia's most sickening atrocities in Ukraine and Medvedev is the group's first former member to publicly expose their terrorism. Andrey Medvedev (pictured) is determined to blow the whistle on the group's atrocities and war crimes in Ukraine The Wagner Group of mercenaries (pictured), co-founded by one of Vladimir Putin's closest allies and allegedly named after Adolf Hitler's favourite composer, is accused of some of Russia's most sickening atrocities in Ukraine and Medvedev is the group's first former member to publicly expose their terrorism In an exclusive interview with The Mail on Sunday, he told how Wagner hit squads had killed 'dozens' of their own troops for disobeying orders and of seeing horrifying carnage as poorly equipped recruits were thrown into the 'meat grinder' frontline. Just four of his 30-strong unit survived their first battle and he says Russian recruits were simply being used as cannon fodder, slaughtered while senior officers hid safely in basements. Medvedev, who has fled to Norway with the help of Russian human rights activists, claimed he narrowly avoided execution himself after being thrown in a hole in the ground when refusing to fight. He was helped out of the covered pit by military friends, then went on the run in Russia for weeks before escaping over barbed-wire on the border last month as armed guards with dogs hunted him down. Looking back, he said he realised within days of arriving on the frontline that he had made a huge mistake by falling for Kremlin lies about his nation's supposedly patriotic mission 'to liberate Ukraine from fascists'. He said some Ukrainians he met spoke angrily to Russian soldiers about the attacks and occupation. 'Imagine someone comes and destroys your home and ruins your life.' Medvedev alleged that he decided to leave at the first available opportunity. But then he discovered the existence of the sinister security squad used to carry out public executions of soldiers who disobeyed orders and of the murder of prisoners of war. He said he witnessed two punishment killings and learned of 'dozens' more after joining the paramilitary group last June. 'You could be executed simply for disobeying an order for refusing to fight,' he said. The hit squad forced new recruits among which have been 40,000 prisoners to watch the killings. 'A public execution installs fear,' said Medvedev. 'Many wives, parents, sisters and brothers might not know their sons did not die on the battlefield but were executed by their own side.' His revelations, endorsed by human-rights activists, carry horrifying echoes of the commissar squads used by Stalin to kill Red Army deserters in the Second World War. 'Such things shocked me it's not 1941,' said Medvedev. The Wagner execution team was also used to murder Ukrainian prisoners of war including four soldiers who surrendered to his unit near the fiercely contested town of Bakhmut in the eastern Donbas region. 'I just want to tell the truth to the world and get justice so that the people who were in charge will be punished for what they did,' the 26-year-old from Siberia (left) exclusively told Ian Birrell (right) After failing to obtain useful information from the captives, his platoon commander summoned the feared internal security squad. 'You knew that the best case scenario was serious injury and in the worst case, death.' His testimony, although controversial given his role, is potentially important in helping build the case for war crimes against Putin and Wagner boss Yevgeny Prigozhin, a thuggish former jailbird who used Kremlin links to become a billionaire. Vladimir Osechkin, a prominent dissident who helped Medvedev escape, said there are similar statements from other Wagner recruits including details of about 100 executions but all the others were too scared to show their faces publicly. 'If they give their testimony, the security services of the Wagner group will kill them,' said the human-rights activist. 'This is very high risk for Andrey.' Among the men Medvedev commanded was a former inmate in his 50s who was filmed being beaten to death with a sledgehammer after fleeing to Ukraine and then returning to Russia. 'A dog receives a dog's death,' commented Prigozhin.Yet Medvedev insisted he is not scared of Wagner retribution. 'They are just criminals I'm definitely not afraid of them.' He accepts many people might consider him as 'a scoundrel, a criminal, a murderer' after serving with the group, but claimed he is determined to see Putin, Prigozhin and their accomplices face justice. 'It's just insane,' he said. 'This war should not have happened.' We talked over two days in Oslo. At one point he was phoned by the widow of his best friend, whose corpse he had retrieved from the battlefield. She told of being visited by Russian security officials searching for him. It was their first conversation, leaving him highly emotional. 'He was the best friend I had,' he said, showing me the man's picture with his wife on his phone. 'We sat in the same trench. I carried his body out with my own hands.' Medvedev typifies the type of men being seduced to serve Putin's twisted cause. His first military service came with conscription in 2014 after six years in a Siberian orphanage following the death of his mother. He never knew his father and admits it was 'difficult' adjusting from a family home to the harsh orphanage environment. He then joined a paratroop regiment and fought alongside Putin's patsies who had inflamed a 'separatist' insurgency in eastern Ukraine after pro-democracy protests ousted a Kremlin ally from the presidency. His squads killed dozens of their own troops for disobeying orders He was discharged on medical grounds after being hit in the shoulder by shrapnel when a shell landed by a checkpoint he was guarding in Luhansk although official documents claimed he was injured on border duties to hide his activities in Ukraine. He struggled to settle, drifting between Moscow and Siberia with menial jobs and spending four years in prison for petty crimes such as theft and joy-riding. 'I felt like I was searching for adventure and then I finally found it,' he said. Last July, he signed a four-month contract with Wagner. The pay was attractive at nearly $5,000 (4,150) a month but he also fell for Putin's propaganda on state television. Medvedev said: 'I was brought up as a patriot taught to love my country and to respect the authorities. I thought the cause was just we were going to protect civilians.' Just four of his 30-strong unit survived their first battle and he says Russian recruits were simply being used as cannon fodder, slaughtered while senior officers hid safely in basements (pictured: a mural praising the Russian Wagner group and its mercenaries fighting in Ukraine in Belgrade, Serbia, in March 2022) But then came the carnage of the Donbas battlefields, with positions changing daily and constant pounding from artillery on both sides. 'The losses were big,' he recalled. 'People were being killed and new recruits replaced them. 'It was like a conveyer belt. Thirty would get killed and 30 new ones would be brought. Forty people killed they would bring another 40.' He claimed their leaders, meanwhile, hid in basements, sending out orders to units lacking sufficient food and weapons. 'We were just meat to them. They did not care about us. We went into battle with machine guns against tanks.' Wagner doesn't care about their fighters. We're just cannon fodder Russian prisoners who have enlisted in Putin's war have told human-rights groups they were promised five million roubles (58,700) for their families if killed but Medvedev said many were buried on the spot and simply declared missing to avoid any payout. 'Wagner doesn't care about their fighters. We were just cannon fodder for them. It's difficult for me to talk about losing my friends in battle.' Yet Medvedev said he admires the courage of ordinary troops on both sides. 'The fighting is intense. It was changing every day. 'We would go take some positions and then be pushed away, then retake the position and get pushed away again.' Medvedev left Wagner last November after serving his four-month contract and declaring his intent to leave. Last July, he signed a four-month contract with Wagner. The pay was attractive at nearly $5,000 (4,150) a month but he also fell for Putin's propaganda on state television 'I took off my uniform, threw it on the ground and told my commander: go and fight by yourself.' It was then that he was put in the pit. 'I was supposed to sit and wait for the Wagner security service. But the boys helped me to get out of there and escape.' Later he travelled to St Petersburg and filmed himself handing in his military identity tag at the Wagner office. 'This was the stupidest thing I've done,' he admitted with a rueful grin. 'I'm afraid of the dentist but I'm not afraid to go into the dragon's cave.' At first, he tried to flee to Finland before travelling to Russia's far north and making the perilous passage across the Norwegian border in the early hours of January 13. 'When I crossed the border, I screamed with happiness,' he said. 'I'm grateful to the [Russian] ministry of defence and Wagner for the skills that I received which helped me to escape Russia.' The shadowy Wagner Group first emerged in 2014 alongside special forces stirring up the supposed separatist insurgencies in eastern Ukraine. Now it has grown so big that it is thought to comprise about ten per cent of Russian troops in Ukraine. It was founded by Prigozhin, who spent ten years in prison for strangling a teenager until she fell unconscious, then stealing her boots and gold earrings. He later ran a St Petersburg restaurant used by Putin leading to his nickname as 'Putin's chef.' Before last year's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, it was a far smaller force reliant on military veterans for mercenary operations in Middle Eastern and African trouble spots. Until five months ago, Prigozhin denied any ties to Wagner but recently there have even been videos of him recruiting inside prisons, offering inmates freedom if they survived six months on the frontline. Medvedev said he saw Prigozhin whose rise has been called a parable of Putin's Russia during his training. 'He's a sick person. The way he spoke, the things he said, his arrogance, the language he used, makes me think he is a psychopath.' Prigozhin has retaliated by claiming Medvedev is a Norwegian citizen linked to a non-existent Nordic mercenary unit and accusing him of 'mistreatment of prisoners'. Though there have been widespread reports of Wagner soldiers committing mass murder, rape and looting, Medvedev said he would not share any such insights in public while he was providing information to Kripos, the Norwegian police unit responsible for probing war crimes. Many normal Russian men like me fell for Putin's propaganda He is seeking asylum after being freed from detention. Having previously claimed to possess video footage of an execution, he said he has handed 'some digital material' to the investigators. Oslo police say he has been placed under 'visible and non-visible' security for his protection. Last Friday, Ukraine's prosecutor-general said all Wagner troops faced investigation for war crimes, including 'those who fled abroad'. He said they had questioned two former fighters already in Europe and were probing another 'located in Norway'. Medvedev claims many 'normal' Russian men such as himself who fell for Putin's propaganda became trapped in the hell of the invasion frontline but now he was standing up against their 'criminal' leaders. 'I want to say it again: this war should not have happened,' he said. 'The Ukrainians are fighting for their integrity, for their country. I went there, saw it and now I know the truth.' A swimmer has died after being pulled from the water at a popular beach. The woman, 73, had been swimming at South Valla Beach in Valla, on the NSW mid north coast, at about 5pm on Saturday. She is believed to have suffered a medical episode before drowning. The woman, 73, had been swimming at South Valla Beach (pictured) at about 5pm on Saturday when she is believed to have suffered a medical episode Emergency services rushed to the scene where paramedics unsuccessfully tried to revive the woman. Police said they would prepare a report for the coroner. It comes after one man died and two were hospitalised in a major rescue operation at Cronulla Beach in southern Sydney last weekend. Surf Life Saving NSW's director of lifesaving Joel Wiseman urged swimmers to take care when entering the water. 'We are experiencing one of our biggest summers ever with huge rescue numbers, and our volunteers have put in a massive effort to try to keep people safe along the coast,' he said. The caution comes as warm temperatures along the east coast of the country drew large crowds to the beach on Saturday. Sydneysiders crowded along the shorelines as the mercury reached 29C. Similar conditions are forecast for the city on Sunday with a southerly dropping the temp by a couple of degrees. Ministers are drawing up plans to block Channel migrants from lodging legal challenges against deportation. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has already outlined how the Government intends to automatically bar migrants from claiming asylum as part of his pledge to stop the boats. But extra measures are being drafted to strip back migrants ability to launch judicial reviews or appeals. Two separate sets of proposals are being drawn up, the Times reported, which are likely to pit ministers in a major battle with the courts. The first - and most radical - option would prevent all small boat migrants from submitting a judicial review of their exclusion from the asylum system. Rishi Sunak has vowed to strip Channel migrants arriving in the UK on small boats of their right to take judicial review proceedings to protect them from automatic deportation The government claims that by removing the option of remaining in the UK for migrants, making the perilous journey across the English Channel would be far less attractive The second proposal would only allow legal challenges to be lodged once the migrant has been removed from the UK, a process known as out-of-country appeals. Proposals are still being finalised by Home Secretary Suella Braverman and the PM, but are likely to be included in a landmark package of measures - possibly later this month. A government source said: The Prime Minister and Home Secretary are working flat out to bring forward the legislation as soon as possible and ensure that it is legally watertight. So-called out-of-country appeals, also known as non-suspensive appeals, have been widely used in the asylum system for more than 25 years. In 1996 legislation set out how asylum applicants from safe third countries could only appeal from abroad against the Home Offices decision to refuse their case. A wide expansion of the same principle is likely to be opposed by the House of Lords, judges and the human rights industry because it would cover all nationalities who arrive by small boat, even if their home nation is not considered safe. The Governments Rwanda asylum scheme - if eventually ruled lawful by senior judges later this year - could play a role in the jigsaw of new measures. For example, Channel arrivals who come from unsafe countries could be sent to Rwanda, and lodge appeals from there. Yesterday, the Mail reported how Mr Sunak said the new legislation would ensure those who came here illegal will not be able to stay and the vast majority who cross the Channel will be deported. Previously he vowed the Government will stop the boats as one of its five key pledges to voters, after last year saw a record 45,756 arrivals from northern France. A Home Office spokesman said: The unacceptable number of people risking their lives by making these dangerous crossings is placing an unprecedented strain on our asylum system' A Home Office spokesman said: The unacceptable number of people risking their lives by making these dangerous crossings is placing an unprecedented strain on our asylum system. Our priority is to stop this and prevent these illegal crossings, and our new Small Boats Operational Command - bolstered by hundreds of extra staff - is working hard to disrupt the business model of people smugglers. We are also going further by introducing legislation which will ensure that those people arriving in the UK illegally are detained and promptly removed either to their home country or a safe third country. There are 54 police officers across the UK who were convicted of crimes and handed sentences totalling more than 106 years in the 13 months since January 1, 2022. Shocking data collated by Misconduct 999 highlights the sheer amount of criminals hiding behind a uniform and vow to serve their community. Within 23 forces across the nation, 54 officers were pulled from duties and handed custodial sentences, some of which were wholly suspended, meaning they will not serve any time behind bars unless convicted of another crime. Offences range from rape to child exploitation, assault and misconduct, with three female officers among those convicted. In total, the sentences combined amount to 106 years, eight months and 12 days. Amid mounting community outrage over officers engaging in criminal activity, the Home Office has ordered every police force in England and Wales to check all their police against national databases by the end of March. Within 23 forces across the nation, 54 officers were pulled from duties and handed custodial sentences. This graphic shows the forces with the highest number of convicted cops in 2022 There are 54 police officers across the UK who were convicted of crimes and handed sentences totalling more than 106 years in the 13 months since January 1, 2022 In the Met Police department, 16 officers have received custodial sentences totalling 30 years, 10 months, three days for offences ranging from assault to making indecent images of children and intimidating witnesses. In the same reporting window, seven officers have been cleared of wrongdoing, three handed non-custodial punishments and 19 are awaiting further court dates. And Hertfordshire Constabulary had three officers sentenced to a total of 21 years, four months - including one officer convicted of four counts of rape. Constable James Ford, 31, was jailed for 18 years and three months for sexually assaulting a child aged under 13. PC Ben Pitelen, from the same force, was handed a two year sentence after officers found more than 500 indecent images of children on his digital devices. Constable James Ford (left), 31, was jailed for 18 years and three months for sexually assaulting a child aged under 13 . PC Ben Pitelen (right), from the same force, was handed a two year sentence after officers found more than 500 indecent images of children on his digital devices Six officers from the Greater Manchester Police were handed custodial sentences from January 2022, amounting to 14 years and seven months behind bars. A further five officers are awaiting further court appearances, two were sentenced to non-custodial sentences and one was cleared of criminal offences. Of the six officers handed custodial sentences, three were convicted of indecent actions against children. Lee Cuncliffe was jailed for eight years and four months distributing an indecent image of a child and attempting to facilitate the commission of a child sex offence. Constable Lee Ashcroft avoided serving his sentence for indecent images of children behind bars, instead receiving 10 months, wholly suspended, along with 120 hours of unpaid work and rehabilitation. Lee Cuncliffe (pictured) was jailed for eight years and four months distributing an indecent image of a child and attempting to facilitate the commission of a child sex offence Ben Lister (left) was jailed for 10 years for raping a 'paralytic' woman who went on to give birth to his child. Oliver Perry-Smith (right), of Thames Valley Police, is the only officer from the force currently serving a custodial sentence West Yorkshire Police has three officers serving a combined 11 year, eight month sentence for offences including possessing an extreme pornographic image and rape. Two of the officers were handed suspended sentences, while one is completing his sentence behind bars. One officer was handed a 12-month suspended prison sentence after pleading guilty to five counts of making and possessing indecent images of children. Police Sergeant Ben Lister was jailed for 10 years for raping a 'paralytic' woman who went on to give birth to his child. Oliver Perry-Smith, of Thames Valley Police, is the only officer from the force currently serving a custodial sentence. He was jailed for three years and six months for misconduct in public office. Probationary constable James Watts, of West Mercia Police, was jailed for 20 weeks after he sent racist memes and jokes mocking the death of George Floyd PC Claire Ford (left), 39, illegally disclosed details about suspects to a wealthy businessman who sought revenge after a burglary. Constable Gareth Duggan (right) pleaded guilty to sexually assaulting two female colleagues at a Christmas party Thames Valley Police has one officer awaiting a court date, while another was handed a non-custodial punishment. Probationary constable James Watts, of West Mercia Police, was jailed for 20 weeks after he sent racist memes and jokes mocking the death of George Floyd. From the Civil Nuclear Constabulary, constable Shaun Mandale is the only officer currently serving a custodial sentence. He was handed two years and nine months behind bars after pleading guilty to six charges of making and possessing indecent and prohibited images of children and possession of extreme pornographic images. North Wales Police also have one officer serving a sentence in the community. Constable Gareth Duggan pleaded guilty to sexually assaulting two female colleagues at a Christmas party. The married 38-year-old avoided prison after successfully arguing any time spent behind bars would impact his family. Bedfordshire Police inspector John Nichols (left), 51, trawled chat rooms for potential victims. South Wales Police chief inspector Joseph Jones (right) was jailed for 14 months for misusing his force's computer to search confidential details for a woman he was having an affair with Bedfordshire Police inspector John Nichols is the only officer from that department who was jailed in the year from January 2022. He was jailed for two-and-half years and given a 10-year Sexual Harm Prevention Order for attempting to arrange or facilitate the commission of a child sex offence. And in South Yorkshire Police force, Nabeel Khan was jailed for two years for his 'audacious' decision to supply cannabis to members of the public while in office. IOPC Director of Major Investigations Steve Noonan said: 'This officer's behaviour was audacious, corrupt and criminal. His actions were a complete betrayal of public trust and confidence and have no place in policing. 'This investigation has now resulted in a conviction and lengthy sentence for former PC Khan. It sends a clear signal to police officers who engage in corrupt activity that they will be caught, and they can expect to pay a high price for their crimes. 'While all the evidence we have seen points towards this being an isolated case of police corruption on this scale, we have to remain vigilant and will continue to pursue allegations of corruption vigorously.' Northumbria Police officer Helen Kane (pictured), 38, was found 'slumped' against the driver side of the police van when a dog walker passed by In the 13 months since January 2022, two British Transport Police have been convicted of sex offences. One received a two-year suspended sentence after he was convicted of three counts of sexual assault against a female colleague. A second officer was handed a six month sentence suspended for 18 months after he attempted to communicate with a 12-year-old girl online, not realising it was an undercover police officer. One cop from Cheshire Constabulary is serving a sentence in the community, the data reveals. PC Claire Ford, 39, illegally disclosed details about suspects to a wealthy businessman who sought revenge after a burglary. She admitted three offences against the Computer Misuse Act 1990 and disclosing personal data without consent at Chester Crown Court in December last year and received an eight month sentence, suspended for 18 months. Another cop from the same force is awaiting a court date. Marc Hopkins, a constable at Northumbria Police, was jailed for three months after sending sexual messages to women whose details he obtained through work South Wales Police chief inspector Joseph Jones was jailed for 14 months for misusing his force's computer to search confidential details for a woman he was having an affair with. Separately, two officers from Essex Police have been handed custodial sentences in the 13 month reporting period, both suspended to be served in the community. One officer was charged with assault, and the other possessing indecent images of children. Staffordshire Police had one officer on the list, guilty of affray. The data reveals three officers from West Midlands Police were sentenced. PC Neville Bridgewood was sentenced to 12 weeks in prison for shoving a bus passenger, but has since been released after revealing he would appeal the decision. PCSO Thomas Daley, pictured outside Southwark Crown Court, admitted Misconduct in Public Office after he made inappropriate approaches to a woman who had complained about a noisy neighbour Two officers from the department are awaiting court dates, while one was cleared in the same period of criminal allegations. Northumbria Police officer Helen Kane, 38, was sentenced to six months, suspended for two years, ordered to carry out 120 hours of unpaid work, and complete a 12 month alcohol treatment programme after she was found 'slumped behind the wheel of her patrol car clutching a bottle of wine more than three times the drink-drive limit'. Marc Hopkins, a constable from the same force, was jailed for three months after sending sexual messages to women whose details he obtained through work. One officer from Wiltshire Police was also sentenced in the same period. Darren Thorn, 44, was jailed for nine months in early 2022 for misconduct after he had sex with a vulnerable domestic abuse victim after looking up her details on the force's computer. Just one officer from Kent Police received a custodial sentence in the same window, Thomas Daley. Daley was sentenced to eight months imprisonment suspended for two years, during which time he must carry out 150 hours unpaid work in the community. He must also attend 20 days of rehabilitation activity. In Northamptonshire Police force, one officer was given a custodial sentence and three handed alternative deterrents. Lee Morgan, 46, pleaded guilty to two counts of sexual assault during a night out with colleagues where he was the most senior officer present Oliver Binns, who had already resigned from the Force, was jailed in mid 2022 for seven months after being found guilty of misconduct in a public office. He had made inappropriate contact with a vulnerable woman following her release from police custody. Cleveland Police sergeant Lee Morgan resigned before he had a chance to be dismissed and he was handed a six-month jail sentence, suspended for two years, as well as having to do 100 hours of unpaid work. He sexually assaulted two female colleagues at a drunken Christmas party in December 2021, and was sentenced earlier this month. Superintendent Christopher Fisher Wright of the City of London Police, is the only cop from that jurisdiction to be handed a sentence in the reporting period. Fisher Wight was charged with three counts of making indecent images of children in February 2022 and by May was sentenced to 26 weeks custody suspended for 18 months, 200 hours unpaid work and 40 days rehabilitation. He will spend seven years on the Sex Offender Register. Humberside Police constable Kate Elston was also sentenced in 2022. She received a six-month sentence suspended for two years after admitting passing confidential information to a member of the public. Up until the 1970s, Lanzarote was a volcanic outpost famed more for its fertile soil than its pristine beaches. But the advent of the package holiday turned the little known Spanish island into the perfect getaway for sun-starved Brits. Year-round sun, picturesque coastlines, luxury hotels and cheap cervezas made the Canary Island the European destination of choice for travellers to bronze their beer bellies on the sought-after sun loungers. The resort offered camel treks across its scorched landscape, watersports and beautiful vistas to tempt the hordes of Britons who would come back year after year. But all that is set to change now after the local government decided it has had enough of British tourists 'saturating' the island. Bathers relax and play in the water by volcanic rocks on Lanzarote's coast at the Janubio black beach The haunt is now deliberately pursuing a policy of tourist decline to 'guarantee the future of generations to come' and will actively appeal to other regions to lessen its dependency on Britain. The move is a major shift from its marketing four decades ago to the aspiring British holidaymaker. In the 1950s and 1960s, package holidays were seen as exclusive getaways for a select few holidaymakers able to splash the cash. The introduction of a British European Airways route to Valencia in 1957, with the term Costa Blanca coined for the area as a marketing ploy, saw southern Spanish jaunts boom. But the expensive trips priced out the middle market, and the Canary Islands were still an unlikely destination for the average Briton. Back then, Lanzarote was a fishing island that exported potatoes, fruit and vegetables grown in its nutrient rich soil after multiple eruptions. Britons dine al fresco admiring the stunning views in the Old Town of Puerto Del Carmen on the island A stream of tourists go camelback riding in the Timanfaya National Park in the Canary Islands getaway A P&O ferry docks at Arrecife de Lanzarote with thousands of British tourists on board in December 2022 A promotional tourist brochure produced for travel agents in 1982 showcased the island's stunning landscape A windsurfer and his dog dressed as Father Christmas sail off the coast of Mareta Near Teguise Previously, it was overrun by pirates in the 1300s who would come ashore to rape and pillage the locals, before it was conquered by Spain in the early 1400s. In the 1730s, the island was hit by a series of major volcanic eruptions, with lava covering a quarter of its surface. A drought then suffocated the region in 1768, forcing a mass exodus of locals. By the 1900s, the island started to become more popular, but it was not until the arrival of low-cost holiday packages in the 1970s thanks to cheap air travel that Lanzarote turned into what it is today. Before the sudden influx, Lanzarote had been improving its infrastructure by extending its airports and building hotels to accommodate the looming tourism boom. Resorts like Puerto del Carmen, Costa Teguise and Playa Blanca became the go-to destinations for travellers from around the world. A British couple enjoy an al fresco salad lunch with a glass of wine while on holiday in Lanzarote in 1993 Lanzarote has a unique landscape with over 200 volcanoes and there are stunning vistas of the island from above Tourists buy volcanic rocks in 2003 on the popular getaway island The Puerto del Carmen beach is lined with tourists in 1997 when the island was welcoming thousands every year A group of pensioners enjoy a camelback ride in 1968 when the package holiday was starting to attract holidaymakers But to ensure the island retained its identity, the government ordered that two thirds of its surface are free from typical tourist establishments. This ironically has made the destination even more desirable, offering an authentic Canary Island retreat while still catering to the Britons wanting their Full English breakfasts washed down with a pint. The volcanic landscape is even recognised as a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO. The island, with a census of just 151,000 inhabitants, received 2.5 million tourists until November 2022, 17 times its population. More than half of the huge throng of tourists descending on the hotspot come from the UK. Island leaders are now pursuing a new tourism strategy to become less dependent on Britons. More than half of the huge throng of tourists descending on the hotspot come from the UK (pictured: Playa Blanca in 2007) The then prime minister David Cameron and his wife Samantha sit among British tourists in 2014 Britons can never be too far from their home comforts as one canny Spanish businessman found with his Little Britain Cafe Tourists ride on a raft at at Playa Blanca beach on April 13, 2014 in Lanzarote English tourists have dinner on the Puerto del Carmen promenade in 2014 It was not until the arrival of low-cost holiday packages in the 1970s thanks to cheap air travel that Lanzarote turned into what it is today (pictured: 1982 brochure) The Island Council has advanced the idea of declaring itself a 'tourist-saturated area', something for which they assure there is 'a broad social consensus'. Lanzarote will instead court the French, Italian and Dutch and peninsular markets. Tourism leaders say although the objective is shared, massive investments will be needed to attract a tourist with higher spending, such as the beaches and infrastructure. And they say it is going to be a difficult job for Lanzarote to find other lucrative markets to reduce the weight of tourism. 'There is hardly any industrial land and aquaculture is not being well received either. If the decision is not to grow tourism and at the same time there is no industrial land planning and other models are rejected, all the parties will have to ask themselves what future model they want to develop,' said one business leader. Hotels would also need money to upgrade themselves. At this stage, Lanzarote's island council hasn't said how it plans to reduce tourism saturation or visitor numbers. A family has been forced to move into a hotel after severe mould took over their new-build house and made their six-year-old son so ill he spent three days in hospital. Jodie Viney and Steven Longyear moved into the new home with their three young children in April last year and were horrified to immediately spot signs of black mould. As it started spreading all over their three bed house, in Basingstoke, Hampshire, the couple's eldest son Riley - who suffers from asthma - became so ill he was hospitalised and placed on a drip. The youngster, who had already been to hospital five times since moving in, was taken in and diagnosed with a lung infection in December, and doctors blamed the damp and mouldy conditions in their home. Six year old Riley spent three days being treated with a nebuliser, an IV drip, a magnesium drip and antibiotics. Jodie Viney and Steven Longyear and their three children were forced to move into a hotel after severe mould took over their new-build house and made their son Riley (pictured), 6, so ill he spent three days in hospital The family moved into the new home in Basingstoke, Hampshire with their three young children in April last year and were horrified to immediately spot signs of black mould As a result the family were forced to move out of the mould-infested house on January 9 for the sake of his health, and have been living in hotel rooms ever since. Asthma experts from the hospital even wrote to housing association Sovereign expressing 'great concerns' that Riley's health would deteriorate even further if he returned to the house, and begging them to find the family a new home. But four weeks later, the family of five have now moved between three separate hotels, have been relying on food vouchers and are having to store Riley's medication in a friend's fridge as they do not have one. This comes after complaints about leaks, damp and mould experienced in England's social housing have flooded in following the death of Awaab Ishak. Health impacts of poor-quality social housing have increasingly been in the spotlight after a coroner ruled that two year-old Awaab Ishak died of prolonged exposure to mould in his Rochdale home in December 2020. A Freedom of Information request by Radar revealed 5,838 complaints about leaks, damp and mould were made to the Ombudsman in the three years to March 2022. Of these, 3,915 were about properties managed by housing associations, and 1,861 were for housing provided by or on behalf of local authorities. Ms Viney, 24, partner Steven Longyear, 26, and their children Riley, Harley, aged three, and Anastasia, two, are all currently in a Premier Inn. The stay at home mum said that Riley has to be on a 'strict' course of antibiotics to stay well and that they are all now 'at breaking point'. She said: 'Riley can't recover when he gets ill because of the mould and damp in the house. 'It's not the right environment for him to get better. 'At our old house he would get ill, but he would recover because there was no mould. 'Asthma experts at hospital said his condition was being made worse by the mould and breathing in damp air. She wrote to Sovereign to tell them it wasn't acceptable. 'There is no fridge at the Premier Inn where we are now, so we have nowhere to keep Riley's antibiotics for his lung infection. 'We are keeping them at a friend's house, and have to drive there every morning to collect them.' After the family first spotted mould and contacted Sovereign, a site manager for the property developer - David Wilson Homes - was sent to the house, who advised them to ventilate and keep mouldy surfaces clean The black mould kept coming back, and gradually spread from their loft throughout their home, along their carpet, in kitchen cupboards and on the walls in Riley's bedroom. Left: Mould lining a window frame. Right: Mould covering the loft ceiling After the family first spotted mould and contacted Sovereign, a site manager for the property developer - David Wilson Homes - was sent to the house, who advised them to ventilate and keep mouldy surfaces clean. But the black mould kept coming back, and gradually spread from their loft throughout their home, along their carpet, in kitchen cupboards and on the walls in Riley's bedroom. Ms Viney said: 'There were already some issues with mould when we moved in originally. We were told it was all normal. 'The problems started to get worse after a few months. 'Black mould would come through the walls, on the carpet, in the kitchen cupboards. 'I left some items in the loft and when I went to get them they were ruined because they were soaked through. 'The house stank of mould and damp after I'd been in the loft. 'We were just told by Sovereign and David Wilson homes to keep ventilating and cleaning the surfaces.' In November, Ms Viney complained again to Sovereign which again advised she ventilate the home and clean the mould off their surfaces. The housing association sent a team to the home to complete a mould wash treatment, but the work was never carried out because maintenance staff said it would be 'pointless,' Ms Viney said. Jodie Viney and Steven Longyear with their children Riley, 6, Harley, 3, and Anastasia, 2 Ms Viney, 24, partner Steven Longyear, 26, and their children Riley, Harley, aged three, and Anastasia, two, are all currently in a Premier Inn. Left: Riley outside their home after they had to move. Right: All three children outside the Premier Inn where they have been staying What is black mould and why is it so common in rented housing? It's a fungus rather like mildew or toadstools, and it needs permanently damp conditions to grow and multiply. It struggles to establish itself in dry conditions and, if you can see mould growing on a wall, you are looking at a colony of perhaps millions of mould spores. Once they start growing, they increase rapidly and will continue to do so unless eradicated. Mould is an allergen and, if allowed to spread, can become highly toxic and cause severe respiratory infections. Spores can grow on plaster, wood, carpet and even dust. The problem is worse in tenanted homes, rather than privately owned ones, as these properties tend to be cheaply built with thin walls and are prone to condensation. Also, much rental stock is old and not built to current housing regulations. Another factor is that these properties tend to be less well looked after by landlords than owner-occupied homes. Around 40 per cent of rental homes are susceptible to mould, according to the charity Shelter. Advertisement Riley was taken to Basingstoke and North Hampshire Hospital for the sixth time the same month, where he spent three days and then in January the family decided to moved into temporary accommodation until the situation is resolved. Having been moved around different hotels, the family said their car's fuel bill has tripled. Ms Viney added: 'It got to a point where it just wasn't safe for my son's health, so we had to move out. 'On the first night Sovereign said we were going to have to sort our own accommodation and the five of us had to stay in three different family homes so we could all fit. 'Riley stayed with my mum, the two youngest with a cousin who could drive them to nursery, and Steven and I stayed on the floor of another cousin's one bedroom flat. 'We're reaching breaking point with it. Every day I'm on the phone to try to find someone to sort it and my kids are going to school and nursery for a break, and we're spending a fortune so we don't have to be at home. 'We were initially moved to a nearby Travelodge which didn't do food. 'Sovereign gave us vouchers for Deliveroo, but they didn't work, because the codes were expired, and I couldn't make packed lunches for the kids because there was no fridge.' Having been moved from the Travelodge to a Premier Inn in Basingstoke, the family was told they would then move to Aldershot because of a booking issue. 'We were moved to a Premier Inn 20 miles away in Aldershot, which sometimes took us an hour to get the kids to school. It's not a nice drive. 'We were paying 200 a week for petrol, when we would normally only spend about 60. 'I'm still waiting for the petrol money to be refunded, even though Sovereign promised they would, they've been nothing short of useless.' Ms Viney, Mr Longyear, a property maintenance worker, and their children are now back staying in two rooms at the Premier Inn hotel in Basingstoke. 'The kids are very agitated because they don't know what's going to happen next,' she said. 'They're really bored in the hotel room, so we have to pay to take them out somewhere to keep them entertained. 'We just want to be at home.' A spokesperson for David Wilson Homes Southern said: 'We are working closely with Sovereign Housing to help the family understand how to correctly ventilate and maintain their home so that there are no issues with damp. 'The property was handed over to Sovereign in March 2022 with no damp or mould upon inspection, but upon learning about the issue in December, we took moisture readings of the ceiling and walls which were normal. 'To provide extra help we have recently installed additional vents in the roof to aid the circulation of air.' 'We're reaching breaking point with it. Every day I'm on the phone to try to find someone to sort it and my kids are going to school and nursery for a break, and we're spending a fortune so we don't have to be at home,' said mother Jodey Viney (pictured left with partner Steven Longyear) Mould lining the skirting board near a radiator in the new-build house In November, Ms Viney complained again to Sovereign which again advised she ventilate the home and clean the mould off their surfaces. Pictured: Mould on the ceiling 'Black mould would come through the walls, on the carpet, in the kitchen cupboards,' Ms Viney said A spokesperson for Sovereign said: 'We met with technical specialists from David Wilson Homes earlier this week. Together, we determined that lack of ventilation in Jodie's home is the primary factor which is contributing to the mould. 'We have already carried out a mould wash at Jodie's home to help the situation. 'While we have confirmed that lack of ventilation is the primary issue, we arranged for an independent mould specialist to visit on Thursday to produce a report and advise us what further action we can take. 'Supporting customers who need financial help is hugely important to us. 'We have been in close contact with Jodie over the last few months and provided considerable financial support, including help with food, fuel and white goods. 'While there was an initial issue with one [food] voucher, we acted quickly and provided a payment instead to cover food. 'Jodie was booked by our team into a hotel in Basingstoke at her request while we investigated the cause of the mould. 'The hotel cancelled our customer's stay after a few nights. As soon as we heard, we provided the most suitable and available accommodation we could, in Aldershot. 'We will provide further support by covering additional petrol costs and a payment will be made shortly. 'As the mould is caused by a lack of ventilation, we will work closely with Jodie and her family once they return to the property to help them ventilate their home.' Self-flying airplanes are gearing up for take-off, as Boeing, Airbus and other companies are testing autonomous systems and craft - but pilots are pushing back over safety risks. The technologies enable autonomous landings, handle-inflight emergencies and relax the Federal Aviation Administration's law requiring two pilots in the cockpit. Pilots have shared their concerns on Twitter, with many stating that two pilots are required in an emergency. Tony Driza, who has been an airline pilot for 40 years, posted that he can 'equivocally state that when an emergency situation arises in the cockpit, a full crew is necessary to deal with it.' While autonomous airplanes are still early, Boeing's CEO Dave Calhoun said in a Bloomberg TV interview the technology will 'come to all airplanes eventually.' Boeing has developed an autonomous refueling plane for the US Navy, the MQ-25. The company sees the technology making its way into every airplane Boeing is moving towards an autonomous world, working on systems for military purposes that will make their way to commercial flights. The company provided the technology to the US Navy with the MQ-25, an autonomous refueling plane that extends combat range of deployed Boeing F/A-18 Super Hornet, Boeing EA-18G Growler, and Lockheed Martin F-35C fighters. 'I believe autonomy and teaming are going to be one of the real drivers with respect to airplane development,' Calhoun told Air and Space Forces. Boeing's rival Airbus is testing its DargonFly systems for commercial aircraft, which will provide automated landing technology and pilot assistance. The technology's vision is said to work faster than a human's, allowing it to spot incoming obstacles sooner. DragonFly is also designed to offer a solution to help ensure safe flight and landing. If the crew cannot control the aircraft, the onboard function detects the issue and automatically selects the most suitable airport to redirect the aircraft. Isabelle Lacaze, Head of DragonFly demonstrator, said in a statement: 'In the same way that dragonflies can recognize landmarks that help them to define boundaries, our demonstrator is equipped with cutting-edge sensing technology and software, capable of managing in-flight and landing operations. Pilots have shared their concerns on Twitter, with many stating that two pilots are required in an emergency Boeing's rival Airbus is testing its DargonFly systems for commercial aircraft, which will provide automated landing technology and pilot assistance. The system includes cameras and sensors that sit on the plane's nose 'The DragonFly demonstrator has been made possible through cooperation within the Airbus engineering community and with our trusted external partners, and we look forward to the insights that this final stage of testing will deliver.' A California startup, Xwing, is also looking to join the autonomous plane race with its fully-functional self-driving cargo plane. While the name pulls inspiration from Star Wars, the company is looking to revolutionize how goods are shipped. The Xwing uses modified Cessna Grand Caravans planes that are fully autonomous gate-to-gate. In 2021, Xwing completed its first demonstration, showing the CESSNA 208 Caravan (powered by Superpilot) backing out of its gate, taxies onto the runway, taking off a predetermined mission, landing and returning to its gate entirely on its own. The flight was supervised by Xwings remote crew on the ground, along with Xwings safety pilot, Ryan Olson, from the cockpit. Xwing has since performed more than 17,000 flights covering two million miles and delivered more than nine million pounds of goods. While autonomous planes sound like the way of the world, pilots are urging the FAA to say 'no' to the technology.' A California startup, Xwing, is also looking to join the autonomous plane race with its fully-functional self-driving cargo plane In 2021, Xwing completed its first demonstration, showing the CESSNA 208 Caravan (powered by Superpilot) backing out of its gate, taxies onto the runway, taking off a predetermined mission, landing and returning to its gate entirely on its own While autonomous planes sound like the way of the world, pilots are urging the FAA to say 'no' to the technology' Jennifer Weeks is not a pilot but worked on a case study regarding the Airbus A320 that was forced to land in New York's Hudson River in 2009 after it struck a flock of birds James Newling shared that he has 22,00 hours of flying and found that a plane's most important safety feature is 'a multi-crew environment.' 'This is just airline management increasing their bonuses whilst allowing a major degradation in safety. FAA please say no now,' his tweet reads. Jennifer Weeks is not a pilot but worked on a case study regarding the Airbus A320 that was forced to land in New York's Hudson River in 2009 after it struck a flock of birds. 'Sully [the pilot] got the glory, but without a first officer, he would have been figuring out where to come down and doing the checklist for a water landing simultaneously. Two pilots are essential.' Advertisement Bonny Scotland doesn't get much bonnier than this. Scottish photographer Fiona Campbell has spent years turning her lens on the wild landscapes of her home country, resulting in a spellbinding collection of images that take you from Scotland's rolling Highland region to its wind-whipped coast. Speaking to MailOnline Travel, the 42-year-old says: The beauty of the Scottish landscape is that it has it all, from rugged mountains to endless rivers and lochs to its stunning coastline and white sandy beaches. But what makes Scotland so special is that there is a certain mood to this place, and when conditions are right, the light can be truly spectacular at times. Campbell, who was born in Inverness and lives in the Highland village of Corpach, admits that shes drawn to the dark and moody imagery that, to her, reflects classic Scotland. Which parts of this vast and varied country are her favourite to document? Campbell admits that Glencoe in the Highlands is a treasured spot, saying: 'This area has always been a part of my life, even when I was a small child visiting Glencoe for picnics and to paddle in its beautiful lochs and streams, so today it is a place that holds many happy memories for me and where I go to unwind.' She adds that the Isle of Skye is also high on her list of favourite places 'due to its grandeur and dramatic landscape'. Certain challenges come with photographing the country's epic terrain - early starts are necessary to capture landscapes at first light, and Campbell often needs to wear double or even triple layers of clothing to endure the unforgiving weather conditions that Scotland is known for. Theres also an element of editing involved after she has secured the shot, a skill that Campbell has been working carefully to hone in the past year. Campbell says: I now have a style I'm happy with. It won't be everyone's cup of tea, but that's the beauty of photography - it's a subjective art form. Below is a handful of pictures from Campbells portfolio. Prepare to see Scotland at its finest Glen Nevis, a glen that's set at the foot of Ben Nevis in the Lochaber region of the Scottish Highlands, is the subject of this atmospheric, autumnal shot. Drawing attention to the tree trunk in the foreground, Campbell says: 'Every time I pass this tree I stop to look, its such a quirky fella' Mist settles on Loch Ba, a loch in the Great Moor of Rannoch in the Scottish Highlands. This serene picture was captured during a 'beautiful' morning The mighty mountain of Stob Ban is painted in a magical light in this picture by Campbell. The photographer says that the peak, which is part of the Mamores ridge mountains in the Scottish Highlands, has a 'moody' appearance in the shot In this stunning photograph the sun sets over the Fairy Glen, a landslip that sits above the village of Uig on the Isle of Skye. Campbell describes the beauty spot as the 'most magical, mystical place on Skye' This dynamic photograph, taken after a heavy spell of rainfall, shows Grey Mares Waterfall outside the Highland village of Kinlochleven The verdant Glencoe valley is the subject of this spellbinding photograph, which is a composite of two images. Touching on the unsettled weather that's visible in the shot, she says: 'The weather in the Scottish Highlands is very changeable... bad weather can often be the best conditions for photography, creating imagery packed full of drama and atmosphere. Low cloud often shrouds the high mountain peaks, creating a mystical feel to the glen; the rivers and streams swell, and waterfalls cascade down the hills all adding to the magic of this location.' She continues: 'Glencoe isn't a destination famed for topping up your tan and arguably, wet and gloomy conditions are when Glencoe looks at its most majestic' The setting sun lights up the sky in this breathtaking picture of Loch Shiel in the Scottish Highlands. Recalling the evening she took this shot, Campbell says: 'The sun dipped below the clouds for just a few moments, bathing the distant hills in a beautiful glow' The Quiraing, a landslip on the Isle of Skye, is pictured in this awe-inspiring shot by Campbell Light filters through the clouds in this magnificent picture of the peak of Bla Bheinn - also known as Blaven - on the Isle of Skye Bow Fiddle Rock, a sea arch on Scotland's north-eastern coast that is so named because it has the same shape as the tip of a fiddle bow, is beautifully captured in this shot by Campbell. It was taken at moonrise and sunset, she reveals This dramatic photograph was captured from Elgol, a village that lies on the Strathaird peninsula on the Isle of Skye. The island's Cuillin mountain range looms in the background Waves crash along the shoreline of the village of Elgol in this powerful picture. Campbell notes that this is her 'favourite place to go when theres a storm' A rainbow cuts over Loch Leven near the Highland village of Kinlochleven in this enchanting photograph This mesmerising picture was taken on an afternoon spent 'moseying around the icy shoreline' of Loch Awe in Argyll and Bute. Across the loch are the ruins of Kilchurn Castle, a fortress that dates back to the 15th century This other-worldly photograph shows Loch Ba in the Scottish Highlands - Campbell says she was 'on a high' after witnessing this stunning landscape Advertisement Aptly, for a restaurant that serves out-of-this-world food, the decor is distinctly other-worldly. I'm in France's Courchevel 1850 ski resort, dining at ultra-luxury Cheval Blanc Courchevel hotel's three-Michelin-starred 'Le 1947 a Cheval Blanc', the figures referring to the most prestigious vintage of Chateau Cheval Blanc wine (and not, as I mooted beforehand, the cost of a meal there in euros). It's a three-Michelin-starred restaurant that screams to be plastered liberally all over your Instagram feed. Before a single dish is served. It's like the set of a Star Trek episode, to be frank. Guests sit around striking round white tables on modish white chairs with white faux-fur rugs draped on them, and beneath huge porcelain 'lampshades' with diameters even larger than the tables. MailOnline Travel's Ted Thornhill dines at ultra-luxury Cheval Blanc Courchevel hotel's three-Michelin-starred 'Le 1947 a Cheval Blanc', pictured. Ted describes the restaurant as having a 'sci-fi vibe' We're told that these are partly decorative, and partly an acoustic device that helps direct conversation between guests but tempers the wafting of chit chat and the inevitable exclamations of joy at the food across the room. The staff uniforms arrestingly chic white and red outfits add to the sci-fi vibe. Wonderfully, the restaurant overseen by creative culinary powerhouse Yannick Alleno has a kitchen so open that as you enter, you practically get to mingle with the chefs, with guests filing past the end of the kitchen and around a circular prep station to get to their tables. Head chef (in Mr Alleno's absence) Vincenzo Tirelli greets my banterous party of four with a warm smile as we stroll to our seats. He looks very young and we wonder jokingly if his mum knows he's out cooking meals for people (though for the record, he's actually 29). The table is almost bare, save for a mesmerising cluster of glowing tree-like lights in the middle, cone-shaped earthenware cups for water and paperweight magnifying glasses for perusing the paper a la carte menu. But it's the tasting menu, presented snow-globe style in a square Perspex block packed with glitter-y water that must settle before it becomes legible, that gets our vote. Then it begins, a four-hour-long culinary odyssey that wows, that surprises, that intrigues. And occasionally confuses there are a few comedy close calls when we reach out to put something in our mouths thinking it's a dish, only to discover it's a decoration of some sort. Cheval Blanc Courchevel, above, sits in one of France's most prestigious ski resorts - Courchevel 1850 The 'Transalpine Walk', above, is 'incredible' around 40 separate vegetables and fruits gathered over the course of an entire year that represent all four seasons in the Alps Lamb chops from Sisteron - 'the Pearl of Upper Provence'. These are served with a sauce made of shallots, confit lemon, black pepper and oyster juice that's been whipped with hay butter; plus lettuce with basil and seaweed There is also a hypnotic pleasure to be had from watching the waiting staff glide around the restaurant, self-assuredly laying out dishes and explaining the ingredients. But it's the food - and wine that takes centre stage, and there are a bewildering number of acts. We're served two bottles of outstanding wine, a Chablis by renowned producer Gilbert Picq and a Fugue de Nenin Pomerol red from 2016, an excellent year. The menu lists six main dishes, but there is a huge supporting cast of extra bites, nibbles and curiosities. And the standard? As you might expect, consistently between very good indeed and absolutely divine. One delight is a little cup of quince and pepper extract that has an astonishingly intense flavour. Then there's the gorgeous homemade vanilla butter, the out-of-this-world smokey bread, presented before being sliced on a gnarled block of wood, and the dough balls placed on the table that we're told will rise before our very eyes and be fashioned into brioche bites later on. Le 1947 a Cheval Blanc's homemade bread is sublime, with a gorgeous smokiness. Before being sliced and served it's presented on a gnarled piece of wood Ted is all smiles as he prepares for his Le 1947 feast The 'Transalpine Walk', meanwhile, is incredible around 40 separate vegetables and fruits gathered over the course of an entire year that represent all four seasons in the Alps. This edible 'walk in the woods' looks like a work of art on the plate and the flavour experience is unique to each diner, with the ingredients mixed in myriad ways from person to person. Another 'lean back and sigh with contentment' moment comes with the 'Ennobled Consomme', made from beef, caviar and winter vegetables such as Jerusalem artichoke, beetroot, carott, celeriac and onion. And served in a small bowl. This is magic-potion-pleasant, immediately ranking among the best flavours I've ever tasted. Two main courses follow, and both impress. Le 1947 a Cheval Blanc is overseen by culinary powerhouse Yannick Alleno Pictured left are dough balls presented to Ted's group that were later made into brioche bites. Ted enjoys Chablis from renowned producer Gilbert Picq There's char cooked with Colonnata lard, laid on top of the fish like a veil. And there are two melt-in-the-mouth lamb chops from Sisteron - 'the Pearl of Upper Provence'. These are served with a sauce made of shallots, confit lemon, black pepper and oyster juice that's been whipped with hay butter; plus lettuce with basil and seaweed. A waiter finishes the dish off by serving two nutty oysters from France's Belon River, enveloped in a Villeroy sauce that's been 'breaded' with minced mushrooms and onions. Gourmet cheeses arrive before desserts of caramelised butternut squash ravioli with honey butter, and jelly flavoured with fir extraction, coffee and warm chocolate cream. I just about manage the exquisite hand-crafted chocolates before raising the white flag and exiting past a still-joyful Vincent in a deliriously euphoric daze almost as if I really had been to another world. It's 415 euros (371) for the tasting menu, 195 euros (175) for the classic wine pairing (without the cheese) and 230 euros/205 (with the cheese). Rating out of five: ***** Full review of Cheval Blanc Courchevel to come. Ted is hosted by the hotel. With so much controversy surrounding the Metropolitan Police, it seems we have picked a curious time to visit Ramsbottom. For this thriving Lancashire market town is crowned by Peel Tower, an unmissable tribute to the founder of the force, Sir Robert Peel. We catch our first glimpse long before reaching our destination as my husband, Martin, steers our car through countryside down the M66 from Manchester. Not only because of the towers elevated position at the top of Holcombe Hill on the West Pennine Moors just above Ramsbottom. But also because this monument stands at a whopping 128 ft. As such, Peel Tower is hard to miss as it pricks the skies, breaking up an otherwise ambivalent horizon of rolling greenery and gun-metal clouds. Sir Robert Peel created the Met in 1829 and so unwittingly gifted the nicknames of bobby and peeler to those who served in its ranks. The politician, who was born outside Ramsbottom in the nearby, much larger, town of Bury, hoped that the Metropolitan force would be the template for policing in other parts of the country and indeed it was. Steeped in the past: Angela Epstein pays a visit to the thriving Lancashire market town of Ramsbottom, pictured In recognition of his work, the tower was built in 1852 out of stone hewn from the hillside. To take a closer look at it, we park near the bottom of Holcombe Hill and follow a path to its summit. The walk is a lung-buster, but our frequent stops are rewarded with a view across the Irwell valley. Even though its closed (a white flag flutters at its head on the days its open), sitting outside and surveying the countryside and the hazy outline of Manchester in the distance is compensation enough. Ramsbottom centre has a made-for-period-TV feel. Its a mecca of quirky shops and independent retailers selling local food and gifts all of which are offset by weavers cottages and stone terraces. We stop at the family-owned Chocolate Cafe for a restorative cup of something hot and foamy (it takes huge willpower to resist trying the World Of Crafted Chocolate tasting plate, featuring Ecuadorian white chocolate and Colombian brownies). Just outside the shop stands, or rather tilts, a large upturned bronze urn from which water flows. Designed by sculptor Edward Allington, it was positioned there in 1998 to symbolise Ramsbottoms association with water, as the town sits on the River Irwell. Angela climbs to the summit of Holcombe Hill to see Peel Tower (pictured foreground). 'The walk is a lung-buster,' she says Peel Tower is an unmissable tribute to the founder of the Metropolitan Police, Sir Robert Peel Further down the road theres the East Lancashire railway line, a 12-mile heritage track which opened in 1987 between Heywood in Greater Manchester and Rawtenstall in Lancashire. Ramsbottom is one of the stops. As we approach the lovingly preserved station, the gates of the level crossing swing shut and a magnificent locomotive chuffa-chuffas by, bellowing steam and decanting visitors into the town. The first trains on this line originally steamed into Bury Station in the 1840s, connecting mill towns and trading centres around the Irwell valley. The development of the line and all of its railway stations was a key part of the Industrial Revolution in Lancashire. Ramsbottom is one of the stops on the East Lancashire railway line (above), a heritage track that runs between Greater Manchester and Lancashire. Picture courtesy of Creative Commons A magnificent locomotive passes by as Angela approaches Ramsbottom's lovingly preserved railway station, above TRAVEL FACTS Doubles at the Eagle and Child (eagle-and-child.com) from 79. Train tickets from 17 (eastlancsrailway.org.uk). See visitlancashire.com. Advertisement Today, at any stop on the line, youll find historic waiting rooms, picture-perfect platforms and a sense that youre an extra in The Railway Children. The journey is as youd expect it to be from the shriek of the whistle to the comforting chug as the steam pumps out of the funnel. The countryside, already tasted from afar at the top of Holcombe Hill, rushes by a canvas of gently craggy hills and sheep-speckled fields (we spot some alpacas near the base of the aforementioned hill). Im just rather disappointed that we havent booked one of the on-board food experiences including fine-dining evenings and afternoon teas. Its a throwback to when rail-travel dining amounted to more than a curling, well-travelled cheese-and-pickle sandwich. Its hard to imagine what Sir Robert Peel might make of either the countrys police force today, or the state of our transport infrastructure. But what joy to escape to this hillside market town and steep ourselves in the past. And, for a time, not think about the present or the future. Coronation Street star Antony Cotton has hinted that Sean Tully will struggle to shift his suspicions of his boyfriend Laurence after he is accused of killing his wife. In upcoming scenes, the barman will head off on a remote mountain mini break with his new man, but is noticeably unnerved after Eileen uncovers his sinister past. Antony hinted that despite defending Laurence to his prying brother Todd, Sean immediately starts to 'catastrophise' the situation, leaving him fearing for his life when he heads off on the mini break. Speaking out: Coronation Street star Antony Cotton has hinted that Sean Tully will struggle to shift his suspicions of his boyfriend Laurence after he is accused of killing his wife In the upcoming scenes, Todd and Eileen cross paths with a taxi driver, who claims he was having an affair with Laurence while he was married to his wife Lindsay. He then claims that when Lindsay discovered the affair, Laurence killed her by pushing her off a mountain, and Todd immediately rushes to Sean to break the news. Speaking about the scenes, Antony explained: 'From a drama point of view this is a classic boy who cried wolf story that Todd has said everything out loud about Laurence that he could possibly say but there is always going to be that one time when something might be true. Interview: In upcoming scenes, the barman will head off on a remote mountain mini break with his new man, but is noticeably unnerved after Eileen uncovers his sinister past Bombshell: Eileen and Todd discover that Laurence may have killed his wife Lindsay after she discovered his affair 'But of course Todd being the way he is regardless of whether things are true or not it is always about what is the motive. Todd seems to always have a motive for anything he does. 'Sean doesn't have a motive for anything. He messes up and can be deeply irritating at times but it is never through malice. 'So when Todd is presented with this fact that he finds out about Laurence it is the same as the photograph of the wife on the phone etc even when it seems to be coming from a good place Sean can't help by feel Todd is just a bit of a nasty piece of work and he is doing it on purpose. 'Even when it comes for a protective place over Sean and it is something that Sean should be told about it very quickly also turns into Todd being excited that he has this news to tell.' Dramatic! Antony hinted that despite defending Laurence to his prying brother Todd, Sean immediately starts to 'catastrophise' the situation Despite this, Antony added that Sean can't shake his suspicions around Laurence, despite his fiery and turbulent relationship with Todd. He said: 'Ultimately it is probably because they are like duelling siblings and they are used to that way of being, but when Sean is on his own he starts to think about what Todd has said about how Laurence's wife has died and Sean has been so unlucky in love that he is is used to that feeling and that default mode that it is really simple and quick for him to go that place again and think the worst of Laurence. 'As soon as Todd puts a flea in his ear, about what he knows about Laurence, Sean reacts badly and tells him he's a spiteful evil liar but the moment he gets two minutes to himself he starts thinking you know what it is probably true.' Drama! Sean has been reluctant to listen to Todd's suspicions of Laurence after he tried to kiss him in December Antony went onto reveal that given Sean's dramatic nature, it is no surprise that he still assumes the worst when he heads off with Laurence on his trip. He said: 'Yes he does and I can identify with that because a trait Sean and I share is being a catastrophiser, so that is very easy for me to play that with Sean. 'Sometimes in real life I start worrying about things that could happen and people around me just look at me as if I am mad that my brain has gone to that place. 'If someone I know is having tests at hospital for something minor I will go to the worst case scenario in my brain. So I can totally understand why Sean is thinking the worst about this situation.' Worried: And despite rubbishing Todd and Eileen's claims, Sean is noticeably unnerved when Laurence reveals their mini break will involve mountains Since he first arrived on the cobbles, Sean has never succeeded in finding Mr Right, but Antony went onto say he is hoping that one day he can find his dream man. He said: 'Without a doubt it would be fantastic to see a big gay wedding on the street and yes it would be a lovely storyline for Sean with mishaps along the way, things getting cancelled and people not turning up but with a lovely happy day at the end. 'But there is also a flip side which is once you are settled that is when people can stop writing stories for the character. I guess it depends on what the story is, but I would definitely like there to be a wedding one day in the future that involves Sean.' Coronation Street airs on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 8pm on ITV1 and ITVX. The final of Happy Valley is upon us after six weeks of nail-biting drama. From an elaborate prison escape to a pharmacist murdering his neighbour with a rolling pin, viewers are eager to find out how the interconnecting sub plots will weave together. Sunday night's episode finished with Tommy Lee Royce (James Norton) revealing his plans to flee to Spain with his son Ryan (Rhys Connah), with police no closer to closing the net on the escaped convict. Ahead of the conclusion, we take a look at seven questions fans want answers for, after the show's director promised to take us on a 'rollercoaster ride' with a 'satisfying' ending. 1. Will Tommy escape? The final of Happy Valley is upon us: From an elaborate prison escape to a pharmacist murdering his neighbour, viewers are eager to find out how the sub plots will weave together Holed up at a hideaway house after his great court escape, Tommy is hatching his plan to travel abroad to Spain with Ryan to start a new life, organised by criminal mastermind Darius Knezevic. And things seems to be going to plan for Tommy, who has successfully managed to make contact with his son through a games console. As police desperately search for the offender and with them closing in on Darius' men who staged the fight at Leeds Court, Tommy has his work cut out - especially as he plans to 'get even with that b***h'. Escape: Sunday night's episode finished with Tommy Lee Royce (James Norton) revealing his plans to flee to Spain with his son Ryan (Rhys Connah), with police no closer to closing the net With the Cawood family in police security and crooked businessman Darius refusing to provide a gun, Tommy will have to put himself into the outside world - jeopardising his plans to escape to Marbella. 2. Who will end up dead? The final of Happy Valley has been extended to 70 minutes, with show director Fergus O'Brien teasing 'so much' happens. Sergeant Catherine Cawood (Sarah Lancashire) and Tommy are set for the final showdown after three long series - and fans think inevitably at least one major character will die. At the moment, one theory is Clare Cawood will be killed by the psychopath while protecting her sister in the ultimate act of love. Sad: Sergeant Catherine Cawood (Sarah Lancashire) and Tommy are set for the final showdown after three long series - and fans think inevitably at least one character will die A specific scene in Sunday's episode prompted this prediction after viewers watched Catherine tear into Clare shortly after discovering Tommy had escaped from court. Catherine told her defeated sibling she was an 'empty vessel' and just like the murdering psychopath. She said in a furious rage: 'We've got nothing in common, you bore me, you have this idiotic, dependent personality.' Now fans think the recovering heroin addict will feel like she has a point to prove, having betrayed Catherine over Ryan's prison visits to his father. 3. Whose side will Ryan pick? Where do his loyalties lie? Tommy managed to make contact with Ryan after he memorised his gaming username and now viewers are wondering what the teenager will do Tommy managed to make contact with Ryan after he memorised his gaming username and now viewers are wondering what the teenager will do. Ryan has found out his father's plans through probing questions - something which could prove vital information to the police, especially with another chat lined up. In a teaser, the teen is quizzed by officers about when the last time he spoke to Tommy was. What will he say: Ryan has found out his father's plans - something which could prove vital information to the police. In a teaser, the teen is quizzed by officers The brooding 16-year-old has only just discovered his mother's tragic fate and how he wasn't wanted as a baby. With this fresh heartbreak at the forefront of his mind, viewers are left wondering where Ryan's loyalties will lie. One wrote: 'My guess for the #HappyValley ending. I've probably made too much of the setups but here goes: 1. Ryan doesn't go with his dad. He's made his mind up regarding the recent revelations about his mum. He's been brought up by a strong grandmother & he's able to see TLR for who he is.' Another argued: 'Im going for Ryan killing his father in Sundays episode'/ Will he tell the police everything he knows? Will he join Tommy to start a new life abroad? Or will the teenager will try to seek revenge on Tommy himself? 4. Will Faisal get away with murder? Scared: Faisal is dealing with haunting flashbacks of when he murdered his neighbour Joanna Hepworth by injecting air after smashing her to the ground with a rolling pin Faisal is dealing with haunting flashbacks of when he murdered his neighbour Joanna Hepworth by injecting air after smashing her to the ground with a rolling pin. While there are initial assumptions her abusive husband was the one to carry out the evil crime, police are still waiting on Joanna's post-mortem which might provide vital evidence he is not her murderer. Faisal's daughter also shot footage after the moment her father crashed into the P.E teacher and if he brings this forward to police, he may become on their radar. Will he get caught? Faisal's daughter also shot footage after the moment her father crashed into the P.E teacher and if he brings this forward to police, he may become on their radar During a conference police said there was blood all over the house, but they are further investigating Joanna's arrest into illegally being supplied diazepam, which could lead back to pharmacist Faisal. With Darius' men being tracked and regularly visiting his pharmacy - could this be his undoing? 5. Does Neil have a link to Tommy and is he really who we think he is? Viewers are convinced recovering alcoholic Neil is up to no good - and some even think he could be Ryan's father in a shocking plot twist. One wrote: 'Ok Im calling it ..Neil raped Becky and TLR IS NOT Ryans dad', while another added: 'My #HappyValley theory, fwiw: TLR is not Ryans Dad. Never had DNA confirmation; Catherine has always denied it; Daniel S2 said his sister was a s**g & out of control; its possible that Becky was pimped out /passed around the addicts by TLR; so Neil might be Ryans father' Eagle-eyed fans believe they have spotted clues which trace back to the previous two series that shop worker might not be who he seems. Betrayal? Viewers are convinced recovering alcoholic Neil is up to no good. Eagle-eyed fans believe they have spotted clues which trace back to the previous two series In episode two, we see Tommy gain access to a smuggled phone and receive the message: 'Ricos Newsagents GR8 presents 4 Ryan'. Neil works in a shop and is close to Ryan, with fans wondering if the message was sent from him. Throwback: Viewers think another clue could be from series two when Neil tells Claire of how he was blackmailed by his mistress Vicky Fleming: 'I used to work at a building society' Clues: DS John Wadsworth said was working on a fraud investigation for the same building society - could it Halifax gangsters The Knezevics be behind it and are they blackmailing Neil? Viewers also think another clue could be from series two when Neil tells Claire of how he was blackmailed by his mistress Vicky Fleming: 'I used to work at a building society'. DS John Wadsworth, who went on to accidentally kill Vicky over his own blackmail plot, also said he met Vicky when he was working on a fraud investigation for the very same building society. Now viewers have put two and two together and believe The Knezevics could be behind the building society, with some thinking Neil is being blackmailed by them. 6. Why is Poppy wearing her coat? Significant: Happy Valley fans have been sharing their theories about why youngster Poppy refuses to take her coat off in the BBC drama Happy Valley fans have been sharing their theories about why youngster Poppy refuses to take her coat off in the BBC drama. When Rob returned to his mother's house after being quizzed for hours by police over Joanna's murder, his eldest daughter rushed up to greet him but Poppy stayed on the sofa, still wearing her coat. One wrote: 'I wondered if it was because she's always on high alert and is ready to leave the house?'. Fraught: When Rob returned to his mother's house after being quizzed for hours by police over Joanna's murder, his eldest daughter rushed up to greet him but Poppy stayed on the sofa 'I'm worried about Poppy Hepworth and her coat. Poor little soul,' another Tweeted. Another insisted: 'There's got to be a bit of a twist coming on that one. They haven't referenced it this many times for it to not have a bigger part to play later on.' 7. Will Alison save the day? Will she save the day? Happy Valley producers brought back the character Alison Garrs (Susan Lynch) for series three and fans think she will play a vital role in bringing Tommy to justice Happy Valley producers brought back the character Alison Garrs (Susan Lynch) for series three. Alison has been released from prison after she tragically shot her son after discovering he was behind a spate of heinous crimes in the valley. The mother has been in the background in episodes so far repairing Catherine's Land Rover and there was specific reference to her manslaughter charge during a scene with Catherine and her ex-husband Richard. Now some fans think Alison will play a vital role in bringing Tommy to justice, with the Land Rover also coming into play to seal Tommy's fate - believing the farmer will run the villain over as he tries to kill Catherine. One wrote: 'There is a lot to get through in the final series. TLR, Joannes murder, Darius Knezevic, the woman who died through the window and I am sure Alison will play a role in the climax. I cant wait.' Another added: 'No character brought back is incidental. They have a purpose. Ann told Ryan the truth. Daniel explained family members reactions. So what does Wainwright have planned for Nevinson & Alison?' Happy Valley airs on BBC One and iPlayer on Sunday at 9pm. From the moment she greeted Tommy Fury from the Hideaway hot tub in the fifth series of Love Island, Molly-Mae secured her place in the reality TV hall of fame. The 23-year-old former lifeguard from Hitchin, Hertfordshire has banked an incredible 4.5million in the three years since she left the Love Island villa. Her lucrative brand collaborations and savvy post-villa business deals have seen the Influencer move from her Manchester flat for one to a 4million Cheshire mansion with boxer beau Tommy. And her bank balance boost isn't the only major change in Molly-Mae's life after Love Island - as of January 23 she is now a mum to daughter Bambi. So, just how has Molly-Mae gone from a villa bombshell to the highest earning Islander of all time? And can this year's new batch of singletons follow in her footsteps? From Love Island to multi-millionaire mum: From the moment she greeted Tommy Fury from the Hideaway hot tub, Molly-Mae secured her place in the reality TV hall of fame Model beginnings Molly-Mae is officially Love Island's most successful contestant of all time with her net worth estimated to be 4.5million, while she boasts seven million Instagram followers and 1.7million YouTube subscribers. But the blonde bombshell wasn't exactly an unknown before the entered the Love Island villa. Growing up in Hertfordshire, Molly was starting to make waves in the world of social media before jetting to Mallorca. After winning a string of beauty pageants in her teens, Molly-Mae jumped on the Instagram bandwagon when she was a fashion student in London, posting daily outfit snaps. Even before setting foot in Love Island, her fashion posts had earned her around 100,000 followers and 10,000 subscribers on her YouTube following. Be savvy with social media Savvy Molly had also worked out how to make cash out of her social media, revealing that she landed her first paid job promoting a brand when she was 16, banking 25 for the Instagram post. After working part-time jobs in Boots and as a lifeguard, Molly-Mae moved to Manchester at the age of 19 to pursue her social media career. The reality star has revealed she had actually been warned against going on Love Island by advisors as her social media following was already growing organically at a 'rapid rate' and had been spotted by multiple brands - including her future employer PrettyLittleThing. Flashback: The 23-year-old former lifeguard from Hitchin, Hertfordshire has banked an incredible 4.5million in the three years since she left the Love Island villa, and became a mother on January 23 Fame: The reality star has revealed she saw Love Island as a 'fun opportunity where I thought let's just see where this goes and I might actually find a guy' 'It was more a fun opportunity where I thought let's just see where this goes and I might actually find a guy... I think, it pushed me in the right direction but I would have still done good things,' Molly reflected to MailOnline last year. And she reckons she thinks she'd be just as successful without taking part in ITV2's staggeringly popular dating show. 'The things that I've achieved since coming out of that show aren't really down to the show they're more down to my drive and ambition to do big things'. The post-villa hustle TV fame or not, there's no denying that it was after she finished as a runner-up on Love Island with Tommy, that Molly-Mae's career really soared. It was hard for brands to miss the incredible rise of her Instagram following from 100k to three million during her eight weeks in the villa. Fast fashion brands scrambled to sign the former fashion student but it was the star's previous relationship with online retailer PrettyLittleThing that nabbed them the contract and Molly-Mae a reported 500,000. Hustle: Fast fashion brands scrambled to sign the former fashion student after her Love Island stint, with the star signing a deal with PrettyLittleThing Two years on from her brand ambassador deal, Molly-Mae was handed the coveted role of Creative Director of the brand, for which she is reportedly paid an eye-watering 400,000 a month. Her Love Island popularity also saw her collaborate with major brands like Starbucks and the 25 she once earned per sponsored Instagram post was soon dwarfed by the reported 10,000 she can now command. The savvy star didn't waste any time in branching out on her own either. Alongside her collaborations, she launched her own self-tanning business Filter by Molly-Mae with the first products going on sale just four months after Love Island. She added to her cash pot with her memoir released back in June 2022 - Becoming Molly-Mae - which sold at a cost of 20 and bulked up her fortune by 2million during the pandemic. Move with the times While her most extensive fanbase mostly made up of teenage girls buying her PLT ranges and women in their early twenties like her, Molly-Mae's multi-millionaire lifestyle doesn't seem to have put off her followers. Key to her success is her dedication to her fans, letting them into her world on a daily basis thanks to Instagram shares and her hugely popular monthly YouTube vlogs. While she may live in a 4million mansion, her penchant for low-key cinema dates, junk food hauls and her canny ability to mix her designer buys with her PrettyLittleThing pieces has only increased her appeal. Down to earth: Key to her success is her dedication to her fans, letting them into her world on a daily basis thanks to Instagram shares and her hugely popular monthly YouTube vlogs And while she may be a decade younger than the likes of Stacey Solomon and Mrs Hinch, Molly-Mae has followed their lead, branching out from her daily outfit pics to lifestyle posts. She has capitalised on the recent purchase of her Tommy's Cheshire home by setting up an interiors Instagram account, which boasts 1.2million followers. With the arrival of her first child this month, there is the opportunity for the doting new mum to earn a whole new fanbase as she keeps her millions of fans up to date with motherhood. Find your niche While Molly-Mae has found huge success after Love Island, not everyone is so lucky and with two series set to air this year the competition is even more fierce. Molly Maison: She has capitalised on the recent purchase of her Tommy's Cheshire home by setting up an interiors Instagram account, which boasts 1.2million followers The current cast of Love Island, who are living it up in South Africa for the next few weeks, already face one major hurdle in their bid for post-villa fame and fortune. This year, for the first time in Love Island history, the social media profiles of the Islanders will remain 'dormant' during their time on the show. The big change was decided by ITV producers following years of friends and family struggling to cope with the levels of trolling received as they managed their loved ones social media accounts from home. The ban on posts hasn't stopped some of the contestants Instagram accounts experiencing a surge in follower count though. Lana Jenkins following has increased the most so far, by over +748% since she was announced as a contestant, digital marketing and influencer management agency 10 Yetis revealed this week. Aussie bombshell Jessie Renee Wynter is the current frontrunner to earn the most from Instagram, mainly thanks to the fame she gained from her stint on the the Australian version of Love Island. Popular: This year the social media profiles of the Islanders will remain 'dormant' during their time on the show but Will Young already boasts a million TikYok followers But it's Farmer Will Young who could be the most bankable star among this year's crop. The likeable hunk already boasted a huge following on TikTok prior to the show thanks to his viral videos posted from his family farm in Buckinghamshire. His one million farm fans could help the star earn up to 14,000 per sponsored post on the platform after the villa, according to experts. Keep ITV close Without the interest in their social media accounts during the show, this year's singletons may choose to look for opportunities elsewhere. Last summer's break out star Ekin-Su Culculoglu has built on her relationship with ITV by signing up for the current series of Dancing On Ice. Meanwhile, series three favourite Olivia Atwood became a regular on ITV's mega hit reality show TOWIE before landing her own ITVBe reality series and a brief stint on the broadcaster's flagship I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here. Indiyah Polack, who was a finalist on the summer 2022 series, has come full circle, landing a job on Love Island's official podcast this year and weekly appearance on Sunday spin-off show After-Sun. Another reality show: Last summer's break out star Ekin-Su Culculoglu has built on her relationship with ITV by signing up for the current series of Dancing On Ice Keep the romance alive As Molly-Mae and Tommy have found out, it pays to remain loved up after Love Island. Series two's Olivia and Alex Bowen, who are now married, are worth an impressive 4.4million combined. As well as modelling and presenting gigs, the couple secured a lucrative magazine deal for their wedding along with 50k from TV channel TLC. Molly-Mae's advice to this year's Love Island singletons? 'Dont bite the hand that feeds you.' 'Everybody when they come out of that show is given the same opportunities - we all have the same 24 hours in the day - and where you take your life when you come out of a show like that is totally dependent on who you are as a person.' MasterChef success story Poh Ling Yeow has opened up about her unconventional love life and what it was like returning to the cooking show that made her famous. Speaking with Daily Mail Australia this week at her new pop-up restaurant at QT Melbourne, the 49-year-old brushed off the public fascination with her 'love square' business arrangement as nowhere near as 'salacious' as people might think. Until recently, Poh was running the Jamface cafe in Adelaide with her two ex-husbands, Jono Bennett and Matt Phipps, as well as Matt's new wife - and Poh's best friend - Sarah Rich. Jono has since left the business. MasterChef success story Poh Ling Yeow has opened up about her unconventional love life and what it was like returning to the cooking show that made her famous While this partnership may seem unusual to some, Poh said their unique dynamic was 'no big deal'. 'I think everyone wants to paint this really salacious picture but we just transitioned into it [being friends and business partners] with such ease that to us it's just no big deal,' she said, referring to the public interest in the unorthodox partnership. 'We all run [Jamface cafe] together, so we're equal partners. It's just how the cookie crumbled. We don't really think anything weirdly, because it's what happened to us. 'I think everyone wants to think there is this love triangle. There is no love triangle, believe me!' Speaking with Daily Mail Australia this week at her new pop-up restaurant at QT Melbourne , the 49-year-old brushed off the public fascination with her 'love square' business arrangement as nowhere near as 'salacious' as people might think Until recently, Poh was running the Jamface cafe in Adelaide with her two ex-husbands, Jono Bennett and Matt Phipps, as well as Matt's new wife - and Poh's best friend - Sarah Rich. Jonathan has since left the business. (Pictured: Poh and Jono are pictured in December 2016) Matt's first husband Matt Phipps (left) is now married to her best friend Sarah Rich (right) The Snackmasters host went on to say she 'felt so sad' about her marriage to her first husband, Matt, coming to an end and so maintained their friendship and business ties because she didn't want to 'throw the baby out with the bathwater'. 'As soon as we didn't have to be together as a marriage, we were like, "Oh, my God, this is so much better. This is everything that we love about our relationship without all the heinous parts."' Poh followed the same pattern when she split from her second husband, Jono, in 2021 after six years of marriage, with the pair remaining close to this day. After focusing on her career for the last year, Poh is now ready to jump back into the dating world, but admits she's finding it difficult with dating apps because of her high profile in the media. 'There is no interest towards me, there is nothing. And I don't know how to do it! I don't know how someone who works in the media... like, how do you navigate the apps?' she said. While Poh's partnership with her ex may seem unusual, she said their dynamic was 'no big deal' But the Malaysian-born chef seems content to take her time and do things face-to-face rather than attempt to navigate 'ruthless' dating apps. Poh also revealed what it was like working with MasterChef judge Melissa Leong when she returned to the cooking competition for the Back to Win season in 2020. 'It was really lovely to have that feminine energy of Melissa. I felt like it really brought such a different vibe and sensibility to the judging which I really appreciated,' she said. She went on to reveal , she developed a 'cultural bond' with Melissa, 42, who is of Chinese-Singaporean descent, and felt grateful to have 'someone on [her] side'. Poh also revealed what it was like working with MasterChef judge Melissa Leong (pictured) when she returned to the cooking competition for the Back to Win season in 2020. 'It was really lovely to have that feminine energy of Melissa. I felt like it really brought such a different vibe and sensibility to the judging which I really appreciated,' she said She appears to be ageing backwards despite being just shy of 50. And now MasterChef Australia star Poh Ling Yeow has revealed the secret to her incredibly youthful visage. Speaking with Daily Mail Australia this week at her new pop-up restaurant at QT Melbourne, the 49-year-old reality star said two basic supermarket bought products are part of her beauty regime - a foaming face wash and moisturiser. Beloved celebrity chef Poh Ling Yeow, 49, (pictured) looks younger and younger every year despite being just shy of 50 years old 'Neutrogena foaming face wash with Aveeno. My whole life. That's what I've always used and I swear by it,' she said. Poh said she has been eating 'very clean' recently, picking up fresh produce from the farmer's market near her Jamface Cafe in Adelaide. 'The other day for dinner I had half a rockmelon with beautifully made local prosciutto,' she explained, adding she has also been indulging in steamed limes and mushrooms. Now the MasterChef success story has revealed the secret go-to skincare routine which keeps her visage so youthful Although she often puts her cooking talents to use in her own kitchen, she also enjoys naughty treats such as chocolate and two-minute noodles. 'I eat very cleanly because the produce is so delicious, but I will go from that to eating like chocolate for breakfast. I can be a really gross person as well,' she joked. 'I love two minute noodles. That is my vice. If I'm a bit depresso or a little bit stressed out, that is absolutely my go to. Speaking with Daily Mail Australia this week at her new pop-up restaurant at QT Melbourne , she said she only uses a foaming face wash and moisturiser 'That and a bit of lettuce or Wombok and then some frozen fish balls or whatever I can find in the freezer.' Poh recently revealed she will return to MasterChef this year as a guest judge after enjoying her last stint on the show alongside Melissa Leong. She returned to the cooking competition for the Back to Win season in 2020. 'Neutrogena foaming face wash with Aveeno. My whole life. That's what I've always used and I swear by it,' she said And though she hoped to work alongside the original judges Gary Mehigan, George Calombaris and Matt Preston, she sang praises of Melissa. 'It was really lovely to have that feminine energy of Melissa. I felt like it really brought such a different vibe and sensibility to the judging which I really appreciated,' she said. She went on to say she developed a 'cultural bond' with Melissa, 42, who is of Chinese-Singaporean descent, and felt grateful to have 'someone on [her] side'. Happy Valley will come to its grand conclusion on Sunday. Millions of viewers will watch Sergeant Catherine Cawood (Sarah Lancashire) and Tommy Lee Royce (James Norton) play a cat-and-mouse game across Yorkshire in the ultimate showdown. Sunday night's episode finished with Tommy Lee Royce (James Norton) revealing his plans to flee to Spain with his son Ryan (Rhys Connah), with police no closer to closing the net on the escaped convict. Over the past few weeks, social media has been flooded with theories and questions about how the show will end. Ahead of the last ever episode, we take a look at some of TV's finest moments which have left viewers shocked, heartbroken and on the edge of their seat. The finale: Happy Valley will come to its grand conclusion on Sunday 1. EastEnders 1986: Dirty Den hands divorce papers to Angie Leslie Grantham played a key role in some of EastEnders' most explosive storylines and remains one of the soap's most famous stars. Appearing in the series' first ever episode in 1985, Grantham starred as Den Watts - later receiving the nickname 'Dirty' after getting his adopted teenage daughter's 16-year-old friend pregnant. His tumultuous marriage to alcoholic wife Angie (Anita Dobson) captivated the nation and more than 30 million people - at the time over half of the UK population - tuned in to the 1986 Christmas special to watch Den present her with divorce papers. 2. Brookside 1994: First lesbian kiss In January 1994, Anna Friel made television history with her lesbian kiss on Brookside at the tender age of 17. The actress, now 41, and her co-star Nicola Stephenson were the first girls to pucker up on British Primetime television The pair kissed in front of 6million viewers - the first ever pre-nine-o'clock watershed lesbian kiss. Split: Dirty Den's tumultuous marriage to alcoholic wife Angie captivated the nation and more than 30 million people tuned in to watch him present her with divorce papers Smooch: In January 1994, Anna Friel made television history with her lesbian kiss on Brookside at the tender age of 17 3. Price and Prejudice 1995: Mr Darcy's lake scene Heartthrob: Colin Firth emerging from a lake, dressed in white and dripping wet, in Pride and Prejudice left millions of women swooning and transformed him into a household name Colin Firth emerging from a lake, dressed in white and dripping wet, in Pride and Prejudice left millions of women swooning and transformed him into a household name. The scene is from a BBC adaptation first screened in 1995. But Colin previously revealed that he had not read the novel when he was offered the part, and nearly turned it down. 'I really don't believe I ever belonged in romantic roles. And when Darcy came along I thought it was weird they were asking me to play a romantic lead at 35.' 4. EastEnders 2001: Kat and Zoe Slater 'You ain't my mother!' Clash: Any TV fan worth their salt will be familiar with EastEnders' character Zoe Slater's dramatic wail: 'You ain't my mother!' Any TV fan worth their salt will be familiar with EastEnders' character Zoe Slater's dramatic wail: 'You ain't my mother!' The famous street row between the pair, where Zoe yells 'You ain't my mother' at Kat before finding out the truth shocked viewers to their core. 5. Coronation Street 2010: Tram crash Crash: In what's thought to be the most expensive stunt in soap history, an enormous explosion rocked Weatherfield - and killed off some of the show's most loved characters In what's thought to be the most expensive stunt in soap history, an enormous explosion rocked Weatherfield - and killed off some of the show's most loved characters. For the show's 50th anniversary, a tram careered off the viaduct after a crash, and reduced The Corner Shop and the Kabin to rubble in a disaster of epic proportions. The live episode continued to depict the aftermath of the accident, such as the rescue attempts and deaths of the characters Ashley Peacock (Steven Arnold) and Molly Dobbs (Vicky Binns), an emergency marriage between Peter Barlow (Chris Gascoyne) and Leanne Battersby (Jane Danson) on Peter's hospital bed, Fiz Stape (Jennie McAlpine) giving birth prematurely to her daughter Hope. Molly also revealed to Sally Webster (Sally Dynevor) that her husband Kevin (Michael Le Vell) fathered Molly's recently born baby Jack. 6. Downton Abbey 2012: Lady Sybil's death Tragedy: The death of popular Downton Abbey character Lady Sybil was kept a closely guarded secret until this dramatic episode The death of popular Downton Abbey character Lady Sybil was kept a closely guarded secret until this dramatic episode. Despite viewers being previously unaware of what woes were to come in the episode, it proved a ratings winner, with 9.5million tuning in. The period drama managed 100,000 more viewers than The X Factor results show, which screened just before on 1TV1. Lady Sybil was seen dying of eclampsia soon after giving birth to a healthy baby girl, leaving her husband Tom Branson (Allen Leech) and family devastated. Following the episode, fans took to Twitter in their droves to express their 'grief' over the departure of actress Jessica Brown Findlay from the series. 7. Sherlock's 2012: Detective's death The fall: Sherlock, starring Benedict Cumberbatch as Holmes and Martin Freeman as Watson is one of the BBCs biggest hits but the cryptic ending to series two kept viewers guessing Sherlock, starring Benedict Cumberbatch as Holmes and Martin Freeman as Watson is one of the BBCs biggest hits but the cryptic ending to series two kept viewers guessing. The episode, entitled The Reichenbach Fall, was based on the 1893 Arthur Conan Doyle book The Final Problem, in which the author famously killed off the eccentric detective. Viewers watched Holmes view his own funeral from a distance after minutes earlier appearing to leap to his death from a tower block. Within minutes social networking sites such as Twitter and Facebook were flooded with fans offering conspiracy theories and explanations. Many admitted they had watched the episodes repeatedly to try and work out how he could have survived. 8. Game of Thrones 2013: Red Wedding Gruesome: Game Of Thrones may have taken their shock tactics too far in the penultimate episode of series three, The Rains of Castamere Game Of Thrones may have taken their shock tactics too far in the penultimate episode of series three, The Rains of Castamere. At the centre of the episode viewers watched as a grisly end came to the King of the North, his mother and pregnant wife, in what has been dubbed as the one of the most gruesome scenes in TV history. In the scene Robb Stark, the King of the North engaged in an age old custom of hospitality with Walder Frey by eating his bread and salt. However after lulling viewers into a false sense of security Walder betrays his guest as he carries out a gruesome act of vengeance against the King and his clan, including of course his wife (who is not pregnant in the book). The wedding feast soon descends into a bloodbath with most of Robbs clan also being butchered. Catelyn Stark, played by Michelle Fairley, had to watch as her daughter and unborn grandchild was slaughtered, then her first born son, before her own throat was also slit. 9. Broadchurch 2013: Who killed Danny Latimer? Gripping: Nearly ten million viewers tuned in to see who had killed schoolboy Danny Latimer in the ultimate 'whodunnit?' drama Nearly ten million viewers tuned in to see who had killed schoolboy Danny Latimer in the ultimate 'whodunnit?' drama. Viewers were stunned to see Joe Miller, the husband of detective Ellie Miller (played by Olivia Colman), confess. Joe claimed he was in love with Danny, although he had never sexually abused him. Confessions: Viewers were stunned to see Joe Miller, the husband of detective Ellie Miller (played by Olivia Colman), confess They met at a clifftop holiday chalet, where the boy would sit on his lap and hug him. In return, Joe gave him presents and, on one occasion, 500 in cash. On the night he was killed, Danny said he wanted the arrangement to end, and warned he might tell other people what was going on. After chasing him to the cliff edge, Joe led him back to the chalet, where he throttled him. 'I wanted something that was my own,' the killer told Hardy. 'I wanted him to love me.' 10. Line of Duty 2016: Dot Cottan murders Lindsay Denton 'I'm a police officer!' Lindsay Denton's shock murder in series three was a heart-stopping moment Series three took a dark turn after armed response unit leader Sgt Danny Waldron (Daniel Mays) shot dead gangster Ronan Murphy in cold blood. DS Steve Arnott enlisted the help of a surprising accomplice, Lindsay Denton, who had been released from prison on appeal. Determined to hide the names involved in the sex abuse because they included corrupt cops and their criminal accomplices, DS Cottan goes to desperate measures to cover his tracks. After she tracked down an email of a list of offenders from Danny's email - DS Cottan confronted her. She, however, refused to delete it and sent it on to AC-12, prompting him to shoot her in the car. 11. Bodyguard 2018: Bomb explosion Drama: Bodyguard viewers refused to believe a shock twist when one of the main characters - Home Secretary Julia Montague (Keeley Hawes - was seemingly killed off Bodyguard viewers refused to believe a shock twist when one of the main characters - Home Secretary Julia Montague (Keeley Hawes - was seemingly killed off. During the episode, Julia was giving a speech on her controversial RIPA-18 bill at St Matthews' College when a bomb went off, sending her flying through the air. Julia's ex-husband was last told at the hospital that she had died of her injuries - and fans were so stunned they struggled to believe it to be true. Megan Gale went through a year of hell in 2020 after her business collapsed and her brother Jason was suddenly found dead after going missing for a week. After she had to 'weigh-up' whether she could attend her own brother's funeral in Perth due to the pandemic and her failing business, the model, 47, gave up. With no energy left to give during that time, the actress opened up about the devastating grief she felt as her world crumbled around her. Megan Gale, 47, (pictured) went through a year of hell in 2020 after her business collapsed and her brother Jason was suddenly found dead after going missing for a week 'All of this upheaval with the business was happening at the exact same time I lost my brother,' she told the Courier Mails' QWeekend, adding 2020 was 'the worst year of my life'. 'I just went, "I'm done." I'm going to take some time out because things were a bit full on. 'At that point, I didn't have the mental capacity to think about how I was going to save the business because all I need to do now is grieve.' After she had to 'weigh-up' whether she could attend her own brother's (pictured) funeral in Perth due to the pandemic and her failing business, the model gave up She went on to say she took the latter half of 2020 off from her career because she didn't have to energy to do anything but mourn with her family back in Perth. Jason Gale's sudden death rocked Megan and her family to their core. Mr Gale, 49, was last seen buying petrol and water at the Popanyinning General Store on July 14, 2020, 160km south-east from his Perth home. With no energy left to give during that time, the actress opened up to The Daily Telegraph about the devastating grief she felt as her world crumbled around her Following a desperate week-long search by family, friends and police, he was found dead in bushland next to his 1999 Honda CR-V SUV. The death was not considered suspicious. Mr Gale, an industrial mechanic, was known for 'going bush' but friend Belinda Murray said he had never disappeared before. 'All of this upheaval with the business was happening at the exact same time I lost my brother. I just went, "I'm done." I'm going to take some time out because things were a bit full on,' she said Ms Murray said Jason 'really struggled' after watching a man die in a tragic 2018 incident at a wastewater plant south of Perth. Daily Mail Australia understands Mr Gale was one of a group of colleagues who were there with the victim when he was struck and killed by a pipe. For confidential crisis support, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14. She's famous for her beautiful voice and dazzling looks. And now gorgeous stage star Marina Prior has transformed herself for the latest production of the hit musical Mary Poppins now playing at Her Majesty's Theatre in Melbourne. Marina, 59, is unrecognisable in the famed hit show, in which she plays the part of the Bird Woman, a sweet and very old lady, as well as the sinister Miss Andrew. Stage star Marina Prior has transformed herself for the latest production of the hit musical Mary Poppins now playing at Her Majesty's Theatre in Melbourne Pictured: Marina Prior is unrecognisable as the Bird Woman in famed show based on the 1964 Disney film In an interview with the Herald Sun on Friday, the stage veteran of hits like 9 to 5 and The Sound of Music, said she relished the change of pace from her usual glamorous parts. 'I was the perennial ingenue, heroine, romantic lead,' the Phantom of the Opera star said. The Carols by Candlelight star continued: 'There is a tendency, particularly in this country, to pigeonhole people. Im really proud of the roles Im doing now; theyre gutsy, interesting and age appropriate.' The dark-haired and youthful Marina appears twenty-five years older playing the grey-haired and tattered character of the Bird Woman in Mary Poppins. The dark-haired youthful Marina appears 25 years older playing the grey-haired and tattered character of the Bird Woman in Mary Poppins Pictured: Marina on the red carpet in 2022 'Its fun, really challenging, and I love it,' she said of the role in which she has to perform in the costume of a London street beggar, complete with hand socks, stringy hair and a battered straw hat. 'As an actor, its lovely to disguise yourself in that way, and Im really hoping people dont know its me.' Based on the famous 1964 Walt Disney movie starring Julie Andrews, the stage version features dazzling sets, eye-popping special effects and toe-tapping tunes like Chim Chim Cher-ee. In an interview with the Herald Sun on Friday, the stage veteran of hits like 9 to 5 and The Sound of Music, said she relished the change of pace from her usual glamorous parts Pictured: Marina in 9 to 5 The Musical on stage in Melbourne in 2022 So You Think You Can Dance Australia winner Jack Chambers in stars alongside Marina. Meanwhile, Australian stage actor Stefanie Jones, plays the title role. She was hand-picked for the role by the show's English producer and co-creator, Sir Cameron Mackintosh. The London production of returned to the West End in 2019, 14 years after it first made its debut, and was a smash hit. Nadia Bartel had the day from hell on Thursday after she suffered a severe allergic reaction to a facial laser treatment meant to smooth out her skin. The 37-year-old former WAG, who is known for her flawless skin, suffered a set back after going 'really strong' on the Picosure laser treatment for 'max results'. Now images have emerged of her walking the streets of Melbourne, looking sombre just moments before she entered the beauty clinic. Nadia Bartel, 37, (pictured) had the day from hell on Thursday after she suffered a severe allergic reaction to a facial laser treatment meant to smooth out her skin Bartel looked to be her own best advertisement as she stepped out in beige slacks, a white crop top and baggy white shirt from her own fashion label Henne. The brunette beauty accessorised only with a pair of chunky, comfortable brown sandals as she spent much of the time checking messages on her mobile phone. Posting a number of stories to her Instagram account later that day, the mother-of-two documented her shocking reaction to the facial. The former WAG, who is known for her flawless skin, suffered a set back after going 'really strong' on the Picosure laser treatment for 'max results' Now images have emerged of her walking the streets of Melbourne, looking sombre just moments before she entered the beauty clinic She said she had the laser treatment before but went especially hard this time for 'max results' which left her 'bloody sore'. Nevertheless, she was adamant the results would be worth the pain as she showed her skin looking visibly red and bumpy after the procedure. 'It hurts sooo much (as we went really strong for max results) but I had this a year ago and the results are worth it,' Bartel wrote on her story alongside a video of her getting the treatment done. Bartel looked to be her own best advertisement as she stepped out in beige slacks, a white crop top and baggy white shirt from her own fashion label Henne During the procedure, she is heard telling her beauty therapist: 'I'm shaking through the pain. I'm not going to lie and say it wasn't painful. It was super painful.' The therapist then explained that Bartel did have an allergic reaction to the laser, but it was nothing to be concerned about. 'Its really normal to get a histamine response. Hers is particularly strong. You can see its already gone lumpy and bumpy, so we will have to get her onto anti-histamines. Itll be a very long week,' she said in the video. Posting a number of stories to her Instagram account later that day, the mother-of-two documented her shocking reaction to the facial. Pictured after the treatment with her skin looking visibly red and bumpy Showing her followers her face while sitting in the car after the procedure, Bartel said: 'This is my skin after pico laser. It looks hectic, I can admit, and it was bloody sore. 'But the results are insane and we went harder than we did last time. So I will keep you guys posted.' Picosure is a non-surgical laser skin treatment which can be used to address the majority of common skin imperfections, including spots caused by sun damage and acne scarring. The fashion designer said the Picosure laser treatment she had done on her face was 'bloody sore' but she believes the results will be worth it Kate Garraway shared a rare snap of husband Derek with one of his carers on Friday. Taking to Instagram, she posted a tribute to Jake and encouraged her followers to support his music, revealing that he has released a song called okukuseku. Derek has been unwell with long COVID since 2020 and Jake looked after him when he first came out of hospital. In the snap, the carer held onto his hand as he looked down at him and grinned. Kate captioned her post: 'Many of you will remember Jake who cared for Derek when he first came out of hospital in April 21 - from the documentary #caringforderek, so you will know what a wonderful healthcare professional he is. Carer: Kate Garraway shared a rare snap of husband Derek with his carer Jake on Friday and encouraged her followers to support him and his music She continued: 'But have just found out he's also an amazing musician - under the name @sencymiller.x - He's just released a song called okuseku (check it out in his bio) - which no surprise is full of love & inspiration to keep going & never give up. 'The world of carers never fails to surprise me with their depths of talent , thoughtfulness and motivation #happyfriday all!' It came after Kate became overwhelmed on Tuesday as she confronted former health secretary Matt Hancock over his handling of the pandemic and his decision to go on I'm a Celebrity...Get Me Out of Here. Derek fought for his life after contracting coronavirus in March 2020. He became the longest-suffering coronavirus patient in the UK after spending 13 months in hospital, and remains very ill. His broadcaster wife blinked away tears as she told Mr Hancock that millions of Britons still feel 'very raw' about the pandemic and repeated lockdown, declaring: 'At the time it mattered I couldn't visit Derek in hospital, he couldn't see his kids. 'Thousands of other people couldn't see people that they loved because they were following the guidelines. The rules were very muddled for us out here.' Mr Hancock was eventually forced to resign in June 2021 when he was caught flouting his own social distancing guidance by kissing Gina Coladangelo - who he hired with taxpayers' money. Describing public anger towards him, Kate added of his decision to appear on I'm a Celebrity: 'This gives the impression you still don't get why they are cross. You still don't get why people are upset. They want to hold you to more account.' Mr Hancock replied: 'I get all that. I really do. I really feel it.' Illness: Derek has been unwell with long COVID since 2020 and Jake looked after him when he first came out of hospital (Derek is pictured with Kate in 2019) Defending his affair, he said: 'I'm only human. We all have our frailties and I fell in love', adding: 'But that is not an excuse and that's why I've been open about it. That's why I asked for forgiveness.' He repeatedly denied breaking the law. Ms Garraway asked him if he understood the anger that people felt towards him, especially those separated by loved ones who were in hospital. She then became tearful and looked up as she spoke about Derek, who has been unwell for approaching three years. 'I suppose the problem is you were the Health Secretary. Thousands of children couldn't see people that they loved,' she said of visiting restrictions in the NHS for so long under his stewardship. Anger: Ms Garraway said Mr Hancock gave the impression that he didn't understand why people are so cross with him Mr Hancock earlier insisted he did not go on I'm A Celebrity for the money as he insisted the 3% of his 320,000 fee he donated to charity was substantial. Susanna Reid asked him: 'Are you telling the truth when you say that it [money] wasn't your primary motivation?' The former health secretary replied: 'Absolutely. I did give some of the money to charity. 'I didn't primarily do it (go on the reality show) for the money, I primarily did it to try to show who I am.' Mr Hancock insisted his 10,000 donation was a 'decent sum' and was 'more than my MPs salary'. He did concede that 'of course there was a discussion and negotiation over the fee'. Sydney multi-millionaire John Singleton, 81, has ended his relationship with his 44-year-old 'carer' girlfriend as it was speculated she was preparing for a proposal. Singleton - worth an estimated $768 million - broke up with his former employee Kim Dennis shortly before Christmas. The pair began dating in 2021 after bonding over a shared love of horses and moved in together after Singleton suffered heart failure and fluid on the lungs in November of that year, Daily Telegraph reports. Dennis lived with Singleton in his Mt White home on NSW's Central Coast and helped nurse him back to health. Sydney multi-millionaire John Singleton (left) and his 44-year-old former carer and girlfriend Kim Dennis (right) have broken up Singleton reportedly split with Dennis (pictured in 2019 with her former partner, 2GB radio host Steve Price) over concerns about their nearly 40-year age gap Singleton reportedly ended the relationship over concerns about their almost 40-year age difference. They were together for some 18 months. Dennis - a divorced mother of two from western Sydney - worked for 'Singo' at his Macquarie Radio Network station 2GB and knew him for several years before they started dating. However, her position was made redundant by 2GB's new owner, Nine. She has since started a new job with an American skincare company. Sources close to the former couple told the Telegraph Dennis was 'blindsided' by the break-up and had been busy making plans for future overseas holidays. They also said Singleton 'will likely have been generous to Dennis' after their sudden split. Singleton (pictured left in 2022) is worth an estimated $768million and invited Dennis to live with him in his Mt White home after he suffered heart failure in 2021 Dennis was also reportedly holding out hopes of a proposal from Singleton that would see her become his seventh wife. She formerly dated 2GB radio host Steve Price with the couple pictured together in October, 2019. Price had separated from his then-second wife Wendy Black that same year but had denied the break-up in June. Singleton also boasts an impressive list of ex-girlfriends and wives - having been divorced six times, including once to 60 Minutes reporter Liz Hayes in the early 1990s. Before Dennis, Singleton dated New York-based public relations expert Venessa Merrin, as reported by Daily Mail Australia. Their relationship began in 2016 and reportedly only ended once Singleton went official with Dennis in 2021. Singleton made his fortune in the advertising business in the 1970s and '80s. The drama surrounding Madonna's 'nepo baby' Lourdes Leon and the Marc Jacobs fashion show has taken another turn. In a TikTok video posted Thursday night, Lourdes, 24, was seen being being turned away from the venue for arriving at 6pm after doors closed. Content creator Mickey Blank, who posted the original video on her account @mickmicknyc, informed DailyMail.com: 'The guards at the entrance told her they can't let her in but she's welcome to come back to the second show at 7pm.' Now Vogue has posted an Instagram montage that included clips of Lourdes sitting front row at the Marc Jacobs runway. 'For the record, Lola Leon made it to @marcjacobs's spring 2023 showand thrived along the way, even despite a wardrobe malfunction!' the caption insisted. Putting their foot down: Madonna's 'nepo baby' Lourdes Leon was seen on TikTok being turned away from Thursday's Marc Jacobs show in New York for arriving at 6pm after doors closed In?: Now Vogue has posted an Instagram montage that included clips of Lourdes sitting front row at the Marc Jacobs runway The fracas occurred just two years after Lourdes was named the face of the fashion brand's spring 2021 campaign. A viral TikTok posted by the account @mickmicknyc showed Lourdes trying to enter the venue Thursday only to be stopped by security on her way up the stairs. Voiceover narration at the start of the clip claimed that Lourdes turned up at 6pm on the dot - the precise time the runway show was scheduled to start. The man she arrived with was seen speaking with the guards for over a minute but he and Lourdes were repeatedly informed the event was 'closed.' While Lourdes tried to finagle her way into the show, bystanders could be heard trying to tell the guards who she was. 'Let her in, she's the doll!' wailed one, while another gobsmacked onlooker asked: 'You don't know who she is?' Their efforts reached a fever pitch when they began repeatedly chanting: 'Let her in!' only for Lourdes to be rebuffed anyway. Eventually Lourdes gave up and sloped off, shielding her face with one hand as she headed back into the cold New York night. Mickey Blank (@mickmicknyc), a NYC based content creator, known for her behind the scenes NYC filming sets and NFFW coverage, was at the scene and told DailyMail.com: 'I'm used to seeing celebrities coming to NYFW events, but this was my first time seeing a celebrity being denied access. Pride of place: 'For the record, Lola Leon made it to @marcjacobs's spring 2023 showand thrived along the way, even despite a wardrobe malfunction!' the caption insisted 'The result?': Vogue gushed that the Marc Jacobs runway played host to 'A 'get the hell away from me' kind of show and collection that fashion fans, including Lola, can't stop talking about' 'The whole process took about six minutes. She stepped out of the car with a young man by her side at 5:59pm refusing to pose for a photo and even covering her face (very unusual behavior for NYFW, usually celebrities coming to these events are happy to interact with the photographers). 'The guards at the entrance told her they can't let her in but she's welcome to come back to the second show at 7pm. At 6:06 she was back in her car leaving the scene. Through all this time waiting outside she didn't once turned her head to the camera.' She had dressed for the show in a busty denim ensemble complete with a torn-up matching coat that slid fashionably down her arms. Accessorizing with a denim handbag, she lent herself a touch of added stature by lacing herself into a towering pair of stiletto boots. Lourdes sharpened her unmistakable features with makeup and let her curtains of luxuriously long black hair fall free over her shoulders. Vogue Magazine leapt to Lourdes' defense, sharing video of the star inside the venue, presumably attending the second show after being kept out of the first one. The magazine wrote: 'For the record, Lola Leon made it to @marcjacobs's spring 2023 showand thrived along the way, even despite a wardrobe malfunction!' They gushed: 'In preparation for the front row, we joined @lourdesleon as the style star got ready to head to New York's Park Avenue Armory for an unofficial start to #NewYorkFashionWeek. The result? A 'get the hell away from me' kind of show and collection that fashion fans, including Lola, can't stop talking about.' Held at the historic Park Avenue Armory, the Marc Jacobs show welcomed a guest list that included Emily Ratajkowski, Nicky Hilton Rothschild and Ashley Graham. She had dressed for the show in a busty denim ensemble complete with a torn-up matching coat that slid fashionably down her arms Accepting defeat: Eventually Lourdes gave up and sloped off, shielding her face with one hand as she headed back into the cold New York night Not so fast: A viral TikTok showed Lourdes trying to enter the venue on Thursday only to be stopped by security on her way up the stairs The last detail: Voiceover narration at the start of the clip claimed that Lourdes turned up at 6pm on the dot - the precise time the runway show was scheduled to start 'Let her in, she's the doll!': While Lourdes tried to finagle her way into the show, bystanders could be heard trying to tell the guards who she was Denied: Their efforts reached a fever pitch when they began repeatedly chanting: 'Let her in!' only for Lourdes to be rebuffed anyway The look: She had dressed for the show in a busty denim ensemble complete with a torn-up matching coat that slid fashionably down her arms Punctual: Held at the historic Park Avenue Armory, the Marc Jacobs show welcomed a guest list that included (from left) Nicky Hilton Rothschild, Emily Ratajkowski and Ashley Graham Madonna had Lourdes in 1996 with her then-boyfriend Carlos Leon, a fitness trainer who has apparently remained friends with the pop diva. The night of Lourdes' fashion show embarrassment, across town Madonna showed off her youthful visage once again on Thursday as she posed for a gothic snap to promote her upcoming The Celebration Tour. Madonna, 64, who will kick off her world tour on July 15th in Vancouver - displayed her line-free complexion with a heavy coating of make-up, including metallic shadow, rosy blush and pink lipstick. She flaunted her ample cleavage in a monochrome lace corset, which revealed a hint of her toned midriff, paired with an elegant black jacket. Lourdes, who often goes by Lola, once spoke to Debi Mazar for Interview magazine and claimed: 'We don't get any handouts in my family.' She acknowledged: 'Obviously, I grew up with extreme privilege. There's no denying that. But I think my mom saw all these other kids of famous people, and she was like: 'My kids are not going to be like this.'' She added: 'Also, I feel like if your parents pay for things, then it gives them leverage over you. My mom is such a control freak, and she has controlled me my whole life. I needed to be completely independent from her as soon as I graduated high school.' Lourdes began her public career as a model but has since followed her mother's footsteps into music, releasing singles with such names as C***radiction. Family matters: Madonna had Lourdes in 1996 with her then-boyfriend Carlos Leon, a fitness trainer who has apparently remained friends with the pop diva Lourdes began her public career as a model but has since followed her mother's footsteps into music, releasing singles with such names as C***radiction Lourdes has argued: 'I think my mom saw all these other kids of famous people, and she was like, 'My kids are not going to be like this'' She said: 'My mom is such a control freak, and she has controlled me my whole life', adding: 'I needed to be completely independent from her as soon as I graduated high school' She is one of a group of rising starlets with famous parents, from Johnny Depp's daughter Lily-Rose Depp to Andie MacDowell's daughter Margaret Qualley. Maude Apatow, whose father is Judd Apatow, and Maya Hawke, whose parents are Ethan Hawke and Uma Thurman, have shot to fame in recent years as well. Cindy Crawford's daughter Kaia Gerber, Heidi Klum's daughter Leni Klum and Elvis Presley's granddaughter Riley Keough are also coming up. The online chatter around 'nepo babies' reached its height in December after New York magazine ran a viral cover story about the phenomenon. Tony-winning actress Melinda Dillon, best known for her starring role in Steven Spielbergs 1977 epic Close Encounters of the Third Kind, has passed away at 83. The two-time Oscar nominee's family confirmed in an obituary that she died on January 9, but no cause of death has been revealed at this time. Over her legendary career in Hollywood, the star, who was born in Hope, Arkansas earned a nod for Best Supporting Actress twice at the Academy Awards. Her acting credits in film, television and on Broadway span more than four decades. In addition to a memorable role as Ralphies high-strung mother, A Christmas Story, she famously won a Tony for her Broadway debut in Whos Afraid of Virginia Woolf? Passed away: Tony-winning actress Melinda Dillon, best known for her starring role in Steven Spielbergs 1977 epic Close Encounters of the Third Kind, has passed away at 83 In 1976, she admitted that the intense play made her 'go crazy' and she spent time in a psychiatric hospital. 'I was in Virginia Woolf, and I just went crazy; it was really that simple,' she told the New York Times, at the time. She continued: 'We had to have a whole different cast for that, but I was called in to do it many, many times because the gal would get sick. I would do it three hours in the afternoon, then study with Lee Strasberg for two hours, and do the play three hours at night... I just crumbled inside. I dont know why.' She was married to Richard Libertini, who died in 2016 of cancer, for more than 12 years, before they called it quits in 1978. They met while she was working as 'the coat check girl' for The Second City, an improvisational comedy troupe, according to The Hollywood Reporter. The former couple shared one son, named Richard Jr. Her filmography includes portraying Sylvester Stallone's wife in Norman Jewisons F.I.S.T. (1978), a suicidal woman in 1991's The Prince of Tides and Close Encounters of the Third Kind (1977), in which she plays a single mother, whose three-year-old son is abducted by aliens through her kitchen's doggy door. In Absence of Malice (1981), alongside Paul Newman, Dillion portrays a woman that dies by suicide after a reporter (Sally Field) writes a story about her abortion. An icon: The two-time Oscar nominee's family confirmed in an obituary that she died on January 9, but no cause of death has been revealed at this time; seen in Steven Spielbergs 1977 epic Close Encounters of the Third Kind Over her legendary career in Hollywood , the star, who was born in Hope, Arkansas earned a nod for Best Supporting Actress twice at the Academy Awards (pictured in the middle of Scott Schwartz and Mary E. McLeod in 2018) Christmas movie: In his 2016 article for Vanity Fair , titled How A Christmas Story Went from Low-Budget Fluke to an American Tradition, he describes her character as a 'vigilant mom' that is 'still a child at heart' Writer Sam Kashner, praised Dillion's 'sweetly comedic presence' in A Christmas Story. In his 2016 article for Vanity Fair, titled How A Christmas Story Went from Low-Budget Fluke to an American Tradition, he describes her character as a 'vigilant mom' that is 'still a child at heart.' Dillon grew up moving around several military bases as a kid, before ultimately graduating from high school in Chicago and studying acting at DePaul University. Movie star: She portrayed Sylvester Stallone's wife in Norman Jewisons F.I.S.T. (1978); seen above Prolific career: Another one of her credits includes the 1999 drama Magnolia Unforgettable: Her retirement from acting came in 2007, with her last movie credit in Reign Over Me, starring Adam Sandler; seen in 1976 Her retirement from acting came in 2007, with her last movie credit in Reign Over Me, starring Adam Sandler. That year, she also a cameo in three episodes of TNTs medical drama Heartland. Her other Broadway shows, included You Know I Cant Hear You When the Waters Running, A Way of Life, Paul Sills Story Theatre and Ovids Metamorphosis. Her fans took their grief to Twitter as they said 'goodbye to the divine Melinda Dillon.' Broadway vet: Her other Broadway shows, included You Know I Cant Hear You When the Waters Running, A Way of Life, Paul Sills Story Theatre and Ovids Metamorphosis (pictured in Close Encounters of The Third Kind) So sad: Her fans took their grief to Twitter as they said 'goodbye to the divine Melinda Dillon' 'A lot of obits and pieces on Melinda Dillon have omitted one of her loveliest performances in a very sweet family comedy -- HARRY AND THE HENDERSONS. Adorable. What a divine actress. Sad loss,' one wrote. Another tweeted: 'Those viewings of A Christmas Story are going to hit extra hard this year. RIP Melinda Dillon, whose "Mrs. Parker" is one of the all-time great movie moms. If you love that movie, she's no doubt a big reason why.' Actor, Treat Williams, took to Twitter to reveal 'she was of course humble and kind' when he worked with her. 'A pros pro. RIP,' he concluded as others described their hearts as 'weeping.' 'A lot of obits and pieces on Melinda Dillon have omitted one of her loveliest performances in a very sweet family comedy -- HARRY AND THE HENDERSONS. Adorable. What a divine actress. Sad loss,' one wrote Another tweeted: 'Those viewings of A Christmas Story are going to hit extra hard this year. RIP Melinda Dillon, whose "Mrs. Parker" is one of the all-time great movie moms. If you love that movie, she's no doubt a big reason why' Beloved: Fans described the late actress as 'extraordinary in so many movies' Grieving: Actor, Treat Williams, took to Twitter to reveal 'she was of course humble and kind' when he worked with her Jennifer Lawrence cut a relaxed figure while strolling through Los Angeles on Friday afternoon. The 32-year-old actress threw on a white, patterned sweater styled with flared jeans and white sneakers. Her appearance out came just over a week after Miley Cyrus fans theorized she had a fling with her Hunger Games co-star Liam Hemsworth. Lawrence looked to be in a hurry as she pounded the pavement with an energy drink in one hand and a black purse in the other. She appeared makeup-free with sunglasses over her eyes and her hair worn down. Out and about: Jennifer Lawrence cut a relaxed figure while strolling through Los Angeles on Friday afternoon Last week, Lawrence found herself in headlines thanks to a wild theory launched by Cyrus' fans following a music video release for her new song Flowers - which not-so-subtly roasts her ex-husband Liam Hemsworth. In the visual, the Hannah Montana alum is seen strutting around the Hollywood Hills in a slinky gold dress. Online sleuths pointed out that the pop star's dress resembles the gold Prabal Gurung gown worn by Jennifer when she attended The Hunger Games premiere with Liam in Los Angeles back in 2012. The similarity between the two outfits is made obvious in a viral TikTok video titled 'Tell us Miley! Queen of Shade' that shows side-by-side footage of Miley in the Flowers video and Jennifer on the red carpet. While Cyrus has never called out Lawrence publicly, some fans believe she was 'throwing shade' at the American Hustle star because she and Liam were rumored to have had a fling on The Hunger Games. Jennifer and Liam filmed the four-part sci-fi franchise between 2012 and 2015, playing on-screen lovers Katniss Everdeen and Gale Hawthorne. The pair were the subject of persistent romance rumors throughout filming, and in 2015 Jennifer finally admitted she'd kissed Liam off-camera. In an interview with Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen, she said Liam was 'real hot' before sheepishly confessing the pair had locked lips behind the scenes. Comfy: The 32-year-old actress threw on a white, patterned sweater styled with flared jeans and white sneakers. Lawrence looked to be in a hurry as she pounded the pavement with an energy drink in one hand and a black purse in the other Queen of Shade? Her appearance out came just over a week after Miley Cyrus fans theorized she had a fling with her Hunger Games co-star Liam Hemsworth 24-carat sleuths: In Miley's music video for her hit song Flowers, she is strutting around the Hollywood Hills in a slinky gold dress (left). Online sleuths pointed out that the pop star's dress resembles the gold Prabal Gurung gown worn by Jennifer when she attended The Hunger Games premiere with Liam in Los Angeles back in 2012 (right) Golden innuendo: Fans believe she was 'throwing shade' at the American Hustle star because she and Liam were rumored to have had a fling on The Hunger Games; Pictured 2012 Miley and Liam began dating in 2009 while filming The Last Song, and were in an on-and-off relationship for a decade before finally calling it quits in 2019. The alleged fling does not necessarily mean that Liam cheated on Cyrus, since he and Miley could have been on a break during his off-screen kiss with Lawrence. Lawrence has been spotted out several times since the video came out and has looked fairly unconcerned with any rumors currently swirling. The Passengers star has a new movie currently in production titled No Hard Feelings. Though IMDb currently doesn't have any plot details out, the comedy will star Lawrence alongside Producers star Matthew Broderick, The Bear actor Ebon Moss-Bachrach and Dead to Me actress Natalie Morales. Robert Irwin shared a heart-warming message on Friday to commemorate the 31st wedding anniversary of his mother Terri and late father Steve Irwin. Posting the tear-jerking tribute to Instagram, the 19-year-old wildlife warrior said their wedding 'set in motion' a 'larger than life' legacy he was 'proud' of. Alongside the beautiful caption was a photo of his famous mum and dad in the early days of their relationship with Steve wearing his iconic khakis whileTerri held a lizard. Robert, 19, (pictured) Irwin shared a heart-warming message on Friday to commemorate the 31st wedding anniversary of his parents Terri and the late Steve Irwin 'It was on this day 31 years ago that my parents got engaged and set in motion what would become a legacy larger than life,' Robert wrote. 'I love my mum and dad so much I'm proud to be their son.' Fans flocked to the comments beneath his post to leave sweet messages of love and support. Posting the tear-jerking tribute to Instagram, the conservationist said their wedding 'set in motion' a 'larger than life' legacy he was 'proud' of. (Pictured L to R: Bindi Irwin as a child with her parents Steve and Terri) One person wrote: 'Your father was a nature hero for all of us and your family is loved around the world.' 'Your dad was the reason I love animals and have adopted them throughout my life and the respect I have for nature. Truly a one of a kind human,' another said. A third added that the Irwin family was 'a worldwide treasure'. Alongside the beautiful caption was a photo of his famous mum and dad in the early days of their relationship with Steve wearing his iconic khakis as Terri held a lizard 'And they're proud to call you their son! This legacy will continue on for millennia. The real warriors of our world are you guys,' someone else commented. Steve, known as The Crocodile Hunter, died on September 4, 2006, at the age of 44 after he was pierced in the chest by a stingray barb while filming a wildlife documentary called Ocean's Deadliest in Queensland. He is survived by wife Terri, daughter Bindi and son Robert. Fans flocked to the comments beneath his post to leave sweet messages of love and support Terri has never dated nor remarried since her husband's death, despite swirling rumours of romances with the likes of Russell Crowe over the years. The Irwins have meanwhile kept Steve's memory alive through their conservation work at Australia Zoo. Their most recent tribute to Steve is the Crocodile Hunter Lodge, which comprises of luxury cabins located inside the zoo premises. Dave Chappelle helped himself to a cigarette the moment he stepped off his private jet on Friday. The American comedian, 49, just flew in from Perth where a wild brawl broke out between 'bogans' at his packed show in RAC Arena on Thursday night. He cut a casual figure as he stepped off the plane wearing a black t-shirt and black slacks as he carried a pastel blue jumper. Dave Chappelle, 49, (pictured) helped himself to a cigarette the moment he stepped off his private jet on Friday Donning a pair of white sneakers, he hid his eyes behind a set of dark, gold rimmed sunglasses as he rested his Bluetooth headphones around his neck. A flashy black car awaited Chappelle who was accompanied by several of his entourage. The moment he was able, the actor stepped outside the airport to soak up some stun, tying his jumper around his waist as he rested his earphones back on his head. The American comedian just flew in from Perth where a wild brawl broke out between 'bogans' at his packed show in RAC Arena on Thursday night He cut a casual figure as he stepped off the plane wearing a black t-shirt and black slacks as he carried a pastel blue jumper He then whipped out a cigarette and lit it up, puffing down the smoke as he waited for his luggage and transport to be organised. Chappelle fled Perth in a private jet hours after his performance was abruptly interrupted mid-show when a wild brawl broke out in the crowd. Fans recalled how the controversial Emmy-winning stand-up comedian was performing at a packed RAC Arena on Thursday night when a commotion that involved yelling and swearing broke out in a top tier at the back of the venue. Donning a pair of white sneakers, he hid his eyes behind a set of dark, gold rimmed sunglasses as he rested his Bluetooth headphones around his neck A flashy black car awaited Chappelle who was accompanied by several of his entourage No footage of the wild scenes has emerged as Chappelle has maintained a strict no-phones policy at his performances for at least six years. It's understood Chappelle was discussing how he was famously tackled on stage in LA's Hollywood Bowl by an audience member almost a year ago when all hell broke loose. Chappelle was spotted arriving at a Perth Airport private jet hangar early Friday morning following the drama-filled first concert of his Australian tour. The moment he was able, the actor stepped outside the airport to soak up some stun, tying his jumper around his waist as he rested his earphones back on his head Chappelle seemed a little stressed after the brawl which broke out at his Perth show the night before Chappelle will perform two shows at Sydney Olympic Park this weekend, several days after he was seen meeting fans and taking selfies outside a Jamaican restaurant in inner-city Surry Hills. Fans at Thursday night's performance praised Chappelle on his professionalism. Others in the confused crowd were unsure whether the fight was real or part of Chappelle's show. HIs entourage stayed close by as he baked in the sun, waiting for his luggage to arrive Kyle Sandilands has declared that he will 'never be friends' with politician George Mladenov after the Australian Survivor star left the Australian Labor Party. Mladenov appeared on The Kyle and Jackie O Show on Thursday and was slammed by the shock jock for his political moves. The 32-year-old previously worked as a staffer to NSW state Labor MP Tanya Mihailuk and was the Bankstown Labor Party President. Kyle Sandilands has declared that he will 'never be friends' with politician George Mladenov (pictured) after the Australian Survivor star announced he's left the Australian Labor Party Mladenov now has plans to run in the next state election as an independent. 'I've since resigned from the Labour party. I don't think they are doing a very good job in NSW and that is why I left. I am very open minded to running as an independent in this state election,' he told Sandilands. 'Independents are s**t. They're all Mosman mums wanting to save the world, and guess who suffers? The poorest people on earth. Go back to Labor,' Kyle snapped. Mladenov appeared on Kyle's KIIS FM radio show on Thursday and was slammed by the shock jock for his political moves. Mladenov now has plans to run in the next state election as an independent. Sandilands is pictured 'Independents are losers. They're all losers,' Sandilands added. Mladenov shot back: 'It's a bit different in Western Sydney, Kyle. Sometimes you need people to stand up for the issues that matter and I don't think that (leader of the NSW Labor Party) Chris Minns and NSW Labour do that.' 'I don't think Minns has even had a chance to govern. I know the guy and I think you're full of s**t. So get out,' Sandilands raged. 'Independents are s**t. They're all Mosman mums wanting to save the world, and guess who suffers? The poorest people on earth. Go back to Labor,' Kyle snapped at George 'In Western Sydney, you need to have Western Sydney candidates running. NSW Labour haven't chosen anyone who lives in their area,' Mladenov continued. 'No one cares about that,' a clearly irritated Sandilands huffed. 'They do, because when you live in Bankstown and you don't have access to government services, you need a local MP who can actually understand the issues to advocate on your behalf' Mladenov went on. Mladenov explained that he was considering running as an independent and has till the end of February to decide 'It sounds like you left the Labor party under a shroud of ugliness,' Sandilands countered. 'No, I left because the standard you accept is the standard that you set, and the standard of NSW Labor right now is appalling,' Mladenov replied. He then explained that he was considering running as an independent and has till the end of February to decide. 'Don't bother, you will be destroyed. No one wants an independent. Independents are flops' Sandilands snapped 'Don't bother, you will be destroyed. No one wants an independent. Independents are flops,' Kyle snapped. The former Labor Party spin doctor, nicknamed 'The King of Bankstown' due to his western Sydney roots, is currently starring on Australian Survivor: Heroes v Villains. According to his profile on 10play, George describes himself as a 'spin-doctor for the government'. Ryan Gallagher and Emily Seebohm proved they are more in love than ever as the smitten pair attended the Twilight Beach Polo on Saturday. The couple made a glamorous pair as they posed for photos at St Kilda West Beach in Melbourne. Swimmer Emily stunned in a billowing maxi dress with featured a bold sunflower design along the skirting. Ryan Gallagher and Emily Seebohm proved they are more in love than ever as the smitten pair attended the Twilight Beach Polo on Saturday. Both pictured She added a pair of nude heels to the ensemble and skipped the accessories but for a pair of earrings. The athlete wore her brunette locks in a high bun and opted for a clean makeup look with a bold red lipstick. Married At First Sight star Ryan opted for a trendy, mismatched suit with a white blazer, beige trousers and a pale blue shirt. The couple made a glamorous pair as they posed for photos at St Kilda West Beach in Melbourne Swimmer Emily stunned in a billowing maxi dress with featured a bold sunflower design along the skirting Married At First Sight star Ryan opted for a trendy, mismatched suit with a white blazer, beige trousers and a pale blue shirt Also making waves was Alex Pike who was pretty in pink, opting for a fitted wiggle dress with a one shoulder design and ruffled detailing through the top. The cosmetics nurse added a chic silk scarf in pastel tones, as well as a pair of white heels with thin straps. Alex showed off her flawless complexion with a glowing makeup palette with a dark nude lipstick. Also making waves was Alex Pike (pictured) who was pretty in pink, opting for a fitted wiggle dress with a one shoulder design and ruffled detailing through the top The cosmetics nurse added a chic silk scarf in pastel tones, as well as a pair of white heels with thin straps Alex showed off her flawless complexion with a glowing makeup palette with a dark nude lipstick Mia Fevola was beachy in a blue maxi dress with chic gathering at the waist, along with small cut outs. The former WAG added a pair of nude sandals and carried a white designer handbag, while opting for a bronzed makeup look with a dark pink lipstick. She posed alongside Izzy Burgess who chose a flirty two piece ensemble with a striped design. Mia Fevola (pictured) was beachy in a blue maxi dress with chic gathering at the waist, along with small cut outs The former WAG carried a white designer handbag, while opting for a bronzed makeup look with a dark pink lipstick She posed alongside Izzy Burgess (left) who chose a flirty two piece ensemble with a striped design and nude heels Olivia Molly Rogers was all white on the night, with the former Miss Universe Australia turning heads in a pale frock that fitted close to her statuesque form. The beauty queen carried a Prada purse that matched her gown and added gold touches such as an arm cuff and metallic earrings. She completed the look with a pair of tall pink heels and chose a peachy makeup look while wearing her hair pulled off her face. Olivia Molly Rogers (pictured) was all white on the night, with the former Miss Universe Australia turning heads in a pale frock that fitted close to her statuesque form The beauty queen carried a Prada purse that matched her gown and added gold touches such as an arm cuff and metallic earrings She completed the look with a pair of tall pink heels and chose a peachy makeup look while wearing her hair pulled off her face Ankur and Sharon Johal opted for classy looks, with actress Sharon in a retro style zebra print maxi dress that matched the energy of her 1960s style hairdo. The Block star carried a chic fan purse, while her husband was sleek in a black and white ensemble. Miguel Maestre hammed it up with Ryan Gallagher, the television star choosing a white suit for the outing. Ankur and Sharon Johal opted for classy looks, with actress Sharon in a retro style zebra print maxi dress that matched the energy of her 1960s style hairdo. Both pictured Daria Varlamova (pictured) chose a beachy look in a white mini dress with a deep V-neck, with the former Miss Universe Australia carrying a bright orange designer purse Mikaela and Jack Crisp posed side by side in coordinating outfits. Both pictured Daria Varlamova chose a beachy look in a white mini dress with a deep V-neck, with the former Miss Universe Australia carrying a bright orange designer purse. Mikaela and Jack Crisp posed side by side in coordinating outfits, with AFL star Jack making statement in a purple blazer. His gorgeous bride turned heads in a ruffled mini dress in shades of pink and lavender paired with nude heels. They've been touring the country for a string of Strictly Come Dancing Live shows. And Helen Skelton snapped selfies during a boozy night out with her worse-for-wear co-stars following their first London date on Friday. The presenter, 39, pulled faces for the camera as she reached her arm into the air to get everyone in frame. She giggled with the cast and crew before holding her head in her hands as they sipped on glasses of white wine. Helen was joined at her table in the bar by judge Craig Revel Horwood, fellow celebrity contestant Hamza Yassin and professional dancer Robbie Kmetoni. Fun-filled: Helen Skelton, 39, snapped selfies during a boozy night out with her worse-for-wear co-stars following their first London date on Friday She looked glamorous in a cream crepe top with her blonde hair pulled back into a neat updo. Elsewhere, professional dancer Carlos Gu was seen clinging on Jake Leigh before collapsing on the floor in fits of giggles. The duo appeared to be having the time of their lives as they stumbled through the lobby laughing. They were joined by Molly Rainford, Fleur East and Ellie Simmonds who came in close for a sweet group hug. Meanwhile, Dianne Buswell showed of her incredible figure in a gingham crop top and high-waisted skinny jeans. She later joined Tyler West for a drink at the bar with the rest of the Strictly cast and crew as they partied away until the early hours. It comes after Helen spoke of how Strictly built her confidence back up after the devastating breakdown of her marriage last year. The presenter formally announced her split from rugby player Richie Myler, 32, last April after eights years of marriage. She giggled with the cast and crew before holding her head in her hands as they sipped on glasses of white wine Laughing: Helen was joined at her table in the bar by judge Craig Revel Horwood Good night: The group looked to be deep in conversation as they shouted across the table at each other Celebrating: Craig opted to wear a casual striped jumper for his night out Group: Fellow celebrity contestant Hamza Yassin and professional dancer Robbie Kmetoni were also present Appearing on Loose Women on Friday, Helen reflected on her journey on the show and how dance partner Gorka Marquez helped make her remember 'who I am'. 'In the first few weeks I didn't know how to own it and be sexy and sassy but then it got easier,' she said. 'Then I stopped questioning it and I just stopped caring less. I was conscious it would be over in the blink of an eye so I just gave it my all.' Hilarious: Elsewhere, professional dancer Carlos Gu was seen clinging on Jake Leigh Night out: They were seen collapsing on the floor in fits of giggles as they stumbled through the lobby Cute: Fleur East and Hamza wrapped their arms around each other Cuddles: Fleur was later joined by Molly Rainford and Ellie Simmonds who came in close for a sweet group hug Helen went on to talk about her racy cabaret routine where she dressed up in black lingerie and stockings - with many fans going on to call it the ultimate 'revenge' dance. She said: 'The cabaret routine was about being fierce and powerful and that's my version of sexy. 'It made me remember who I am this show. By the end I wasn't thinking "oh my god" I just wanted to have a good time.' Stylish: Meanwhile, Dianne Buswell showed of her incredible figure in a gingham crop top and high-waisted skinny jeans Party: She later joined Tyler West for a drink at the bar Having fun: The Strictly cast and crew partied away until the early hours Elsewhere in the interview, Helen talked about juggling motherhood as she tours the country with the rest of the Strictly cast, who were pictured in London for their stint at The 02. The BBC star has been dancing with Kai Widdrington as Gorka is not taking part in the tour due to other work commitments. Helen shares Ernie, seven, Louis, five, and baby Elsie, one, with ex Richie, who is expecting his first child with girlfriend Stephanie Thirkill, 32. Conversation: Helen caught up with Hamza at the table Funny: She couldn't control her giggles Stunning: The presenter looked glamorous in a cream crepe top with her blonde hair pulled back into a neat updo 'It's been a juggle with tour and the school run. I take them to voiceovers we do stuff all together. Me and Gorka both knew we had kids so it worked to juggle it all,' she said. 'Outwardly Gorka is macho but under it he was so sensitive, he always tried to make me look good he doesn't get enough credit. I have a great friend in Kai and Gorka.' Helen was said to feel 'bewildered' by the breakdown of her marriage, with a source close to the couple telling MailOnline: 'Helen is absolutely devastated.' Anna Heinrich's little girl is growing up fast. On Saturday, the former star of The Bachelor took her two-year-old, Elle, out for the day in Sydney's Bondi. The 35-year-old watched on closely and gave the toddler a hand as she practised her walking. Anna Heinrich's little girl is growing up fast. On Saturday, the former star of The Bachelor took her two-year-old, Elle, out for the day in Sydney's Bondi. Both pictured The mother and daughter stopped at a local park, where Elle tried her best to stroll around on her own. Anna then rewarded the tot with a babychino coffee at a local cafe, where the pair sat down at a table together for the snack. The former reality star looked casually chic for the outing, donning a sleek black dress that sat close to her figure. The 35-year-old watched on closely and gave the toddler a hand as she practised her walking The mother and daughter stopped at a local park Elle tried her best to stroll around on her own Anna gave the little girl some space to walk on her own She added a pair of casual white sneakers to the ensemble and had on a pair of designer sunglasses. Anna appeared to have on minimal makeup and wore her blonde locks pulled back in a ponytail. When she wasn't walking alongside her mum, Anna carried her daughter on her hip as she walked home holding a take away coffee. Anna then rewarded the tot with a babychino coffee at a local cafe The pair sat down at a table together for the snack Elle didn't seem overly impressed with her drink The former reality star looked casually chic for the outing The lawyer and her husband Tim Robards moved into their new mansion at the end of last year. The pair snapped up a newly renovated luxury home in Sydney's Dover Heights and they shared photos of the new digs. In a post shared to Instagram, a delighted Anna and Tim beamed as they held their daughter Elle in front of the house. She donned a sleek black dress that sat close to her figure She added a pair of casual white sneakers to the ensemble Anna had on a pair of designer sunglasses on what was a bright and hot day She appeared to have on minimal makeup for the casual outing 'Elle did okay for her 2nd bday Very grateful and excited for the next chapter for our family,' he wrote in the caption. 'After 20 years of not having to mow a lawn handyman Tim is weirdly excited to don the gum boots, short shorts and goggles, and terrorise the new neighbours with his trigger happy whipper snipper technique,' he added. The stunning property had been listed with a $6million price guide, according to The Daily Telegraph. The beauty wore her blonde locks pulled back in a ponytail When she wasn't walking alongside her mum, Anna carried her daughter on her hip Anna walked home holding a take away coffee She added a gold necklace and a number of bangles to her look Tim, 39, and Anna are understood to have paid a figure close to the price guide. The couple met on The Bachelor on the first ever season of the Australian edition back in 2013. They married in a fairytale wedding in Italy in 2018 and welcomed Elle, who is their first child, in November 2020. Jenna Coleman and Aidan Turner smiled despite their West End play's sour reception as they signed autographs for fans outside the theatre on Friday. The pair are currently starring in the two-man show Lemons, Lemons, Lemons, Lemons, Lemons at London's Harold Pinter Theatre. The Doctor Who actress, 36, looked effortlessly chic in a ankle-length black overcoat, worn over a thick black jumper. Jenna broke up the almost entirely all black ensemble with white, green and red checked maxi shirt. The star paired the outfit with chunky heeled black patent leather loafers and a matching shoulder bag. Effortless chic: Jenna Coleman, 36, looked casual yet stylish as she signed autographs for fans after Lemons, Lemons, Lemons, Lemons, Lemons performance The Victoria protagonist left her blonde-dyed bob loose and kept her make-up discreet, wearing a touch of eyeliner and mascara. Her fellow lead Aidan, 39, also kept it casual, opting for a white t-shirt, camel overshirt, and black jeans. The Poldark actor paired the outfit with white New Balance trainers with red detail. The stars' play will be on-stage for a nine-week run and sees Jenna play rule-abiding lawyer Bernadette while Aidan portrays free-spirited musician Oliver. The official synopsis reads: '"Let's just talk until it goes". You're going to speak more than 123 million words in your lifetime. What will you do when they run out? 'Lemons Lemons Lemons Lemons Lemons is a tender and funny rom-com about what we say, how we say it, and what happens when we can't say anything anymore'. The play explores a young couples response to a dystopian world in which words are rationed by 'hush laws.' Jenna and Aidan take starring roles in this two-hander, which is a West End revival of Sam Steiners debut play of the same name - a huge success following its debut at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival in 2015. Casual: Aidan Turner, 39, turned up in a relaxed attire of a camel overshirt, black jeans, and New Balance trainers However, despite the talent of the actors, critics have been left with a slightly sour taste in their mouth since Lemons, Lemons, Lemons, Lemons, Lemons' press night at Londons Harold Pinter Theatre on Tuesday evening. Mail Online's Patrick Marmion gave the play two out of five stars and described the script as 'gimmicky'. He said: 'Give [anyone] a gimmicky script like this one by Sam Steiner and they will inevitably wind up sounding like Holly Willoughby and Phillip Schofield, waffling to kill time on This Morning.' Offering the play three out of five stars, Time Out magazine described it as 'a disarmingly bleak affair, or certainly in comparison to eight years ago' - with Brexit blamed for its 'dour' tone. Unfazed: The Doctor Who star didn't seem to bothered by the play's less than stellar critical response as she happily signed autographs for attendees Happy face: Aidan was all smiles despite the play's slightly sour reception as he signed autographs for fans outside the theatre However the 'lovely' set design was praised, while Steiner's words - of which some have been rewritten since its debut - were applauded for standing the test the time. Elsewhere The Times also offered three out of five stars, while claiming the play soon runs out of steam. 'Can two good actors and a gifted director, Josie Rourke, make this cocktail of cute ideas add up to more than the sum of its parts? Not quite,' they write. Starring roles: The actors play Oliver and Bernadette in this two-hander, currently showing at London's Harold Pinter Theatre (pictured onstage) 'Worse, a singsong of Total Eclipse of the Heart trails off when he runs out of words before she does. Every now and then they fall apart.' Meanwhile The Telegraph claimed it was 'tantalising, but limited' despite strong performances from its two stars, writing: 'Plenty for fans to admire, then, but a few syllables short of a humdinger.' LEMONS ALL ROUND! WHAT THE CRITICS SAID 'Can two good actors and a gifted director, Josie Rourke, make this cocktail of cute ideas add up to more than the sum of its parts? Not quite' - The Times 'A disarmingly bleak affair, or certainly in comparison to eight years ago' - Time Out London 'A bittersweet pleasure... a sad love story subtly enacted by two luminous screen stars' - The Evening Standard 'Plenty for fans to admire, then, but a few syllables short of a humdinger' The Telegraph 'Coleman and Turner are endearing together, although they remain cutesy for too long, repeating riffs on their first meeting in a pet cemetery' - The Guardian 'Ultimately, Lemons did feel a little long despite the tremendous likeability of its central pairing but its central premise is compelling and its clear its author Sam Steiner is going to be a name of which we are all to become far more familiar' - Monstagigz Advertisement British pop band The Vamps have hailed their Sydney gig as 'one of our favourite shows of all time'. The band, consisting of members Brad Simpson, James Brittain-McVey, Connor Ball and Tristan Evans, said they had an 'insane experience' at the Enmore Theatre on Friday night. They arrived Down Under earlier this week to commence their greatest hits tour to celebrate their decade-long career on the music charts. British pop band The Vamps have hailed their Sydney gig as 'one of our favourite shows of all time' after playing the Enmore Theatre on Friday 'To be on the other side of the world and sharing that with you was so special,' they wrote in an Instagram post on Saturday. They then revealed that their Sydney performance was filmed and would be published online on their subscription-only website. Prior to their concert at Melbourne's Forum on Saturday, a bunch of ticketholders camped outside the venue in anticipation for the show. The British pop band performed to a sold-out audience of screening young women At one of their Australian shows, two of the band members did a 'shooey' on stage by drinking alcohol out of a boot. After a sold-out tour of Australia, they will next perform in Asia with dates in Japan, Thailand and Singapore. Last year, band member James McVey revealed he underwent liposuction at the age of 20 as he detailed his battle with his own body image. At one of their Australian shows, two of the band members did a 'shooey' on stage by drinking alcohol out of a boot The guitarist admitted on UK chat show Loose Women that he underwent the fat removal procedure even though he was underweight at the time. 'I starved myself, then I'd eat loads to try and bulk up. I became a horrible person, it still affects me to this day,' he confessed. The Vamps have released five albums during their career and had several hits in Australia, including Can We Dance and Somebody To You. She was recently forced to deny that she had split from her boyfriend of thre eyears Thom Evans. And Nicole Scherzinger was putting the recent dama behind her as she displayed her jaw-dropping physique in a sizzling new clip she shared on Saturday. The Pussycat Dolls star, 44, slipped into a black crop top that highlighted her toned abdomen as she danced to Pretty Girls Walk by Big Boss Vette. The hitmaker also sported a pair of light grey tracksuit bottoms and styled her brunette locks into voluminous waves. Nicole drew further attention to her look with dramatic blue eye shadow as she strutted her stuff for her followers. Looking good: Nicole Scherzinger displayed her jaw-dropping physique in a sizzling new clip she shared on Saturday Sizzling: The Pussycat Dolls star, 44, slipped into a black crop top that highlighted her toned abdomen as she danced to Pretty Girls Walk by Big Boss Vette It comes after Nicole and Thom took to their Instagram Stories on Friday to insist they would be spending Valentine's Day together after they were said to have gone their separate ways. Tom was said to have been seen having a tearful conversation with pals at a restaurant in London. According to The Sun, Thom told his fellow diners he was staying with a friend after previously moving out of his flat to travel the world with Nicole. A source told the publication: 'Thom looked distraught he was saying things had gone wrong and now he's back in the UK for the foreseeable, while Nicole lives in Los Angeles. 'They've had the most amazing relationship, and they've plastered it all over the internet for all to see if anything a lot of people thought they were pretty smug about it to be honest, so there might be a bit of humble pie here.' MailOnline has contacted representatives for Nicole and Thom for comment. Nicole and Thom first started dating after Thom appeared on The X Factor: Celebrity in 2019, with Nicole being a judge on the show. The couple frequently share pictures of themselves as they holiday in exotic locations around the globe. Pose: The Buttons hitmaker also sported a pair of light grey tracksuit bottoms Radiant: Nicole drew further attention to her look with dramatic blue eye shadow as she strutted her stuff for her followers They were last pictured together on social media looking glamorous at a black tie party on New Year's Eve as they sent their followers their best wishes for 2023. Earlier this week, Nicole shared a video of herself running along a sandy beach at sunset, with the cryptic caption: 'Fresh start. New beginnings,' adding fuel to speculation of a split. She added: 'The moment of surrender is not when life is over, it's when it begins.' Still on! Nicole and her boyfriend Thom Evans recently denied they've split after three years together Thom caught Nicole's eye when he appeared on The X Factor: Celebrity in 2019 as a member of the boyband Try Star with fellow rugby players Ben Foden and Levi Davis, who was recently reported missing in Spain. In July last year it was reported the couple had got engaged after he popped the question during a romantic trip to Mykonos in Greece. The Pussycat Doll was said to have accepted the sportsman's proposal during their idyllic getaway. A friend of the couple told The Daily Mail's Richard Eden: 'They are getting married', with Thom knowing Nicole was 'the one' since they met on The X Factor: Celebrity. Louise Thompson admitted she thought 'she was going to die again' after her emergency readmission to hospital', one year after the traumatic birth of her son. The former Made In Chelsea star, 32, admitted on Saturday that she was 'doing really well' before she suffered a haemorrhage and lost around three litres of blood. She spent a month in intensive care after welcoming son Leo-Hunter Libbey, 14 months, with boyfriend Ryan and suffers with PTSD and post-natal anxiety after the near-death birthing experience. Louise had previously been in hospital after undergoing a 'small operation' amid her gruelling battle with Ashermans Syndrome. The condition causes scar tissue to form and build up inside your uterus, it is unknown if her recent admission was from complications from the surgery. Tough: Louise Thompson, 32, said her latest emergency readmission to hospital left her thinking she was 'going to die again', one year after the traumatic birth of her son In her first post on Instagram since her hospital stay, she detailed: 'I'm not going to let this hold me back. I've learnt a lot from the last year and I feel in a much sounder headspace than last year so fingers crossed. 'I'm a bit scared to leave the house (or sometimes even stand up) so slowly slowly and I will have lots of time bored at home so pop me a message.??? 'I have to say, I am one damn strong cookie. And I have to hold on to the fact that our bodies are remarkable and can heal from such extraordinarily brutal things. I can and I will heal from this. "From feeling all my limbs go cold as my blood tries to protect my vital organs, to shutting off my entire pain response as I had 4x canulas jabbed into my arms at the same time in Rhesus, wow, what a trip.????? 'Thanks doctors + medicine and those dedicated to those improving medicine and science'y stuff for keeping me alive ???? A haemorrhage is medically defined as a loss of blood from damaged blood vessels, and they can be both internal and external. It can occur in nearly any part of the body, and if it is unable to be controlled, or caused by a serious injury, it may require surgery. It comes after Louise's fiance Ryan Libbey revealed that she was rushed to hospital after suffering a haemorrhage. Strong: The former Made In Chelsea star, 32, admitted on Saturday that she was 'doing really well' before she suffered a haemorrhage and lost around three litres of blood Taking to Instagram to share an update on the Made In Chelsea star, Ryan explained that he and Louise were forced to cancel their holiday to St Lucia after she required emergency surgery and 'close monitoring.' Louise previously took to Instagram to share that she had an 'unexpected medical situation' but didn't elaborate further. Ryan added that since her health scare, Louise is 'stable' and is recovering at home, describing his girlfriend as a 'warrior.' In her first post on Instagram since her hospital stay, she detailed: 'I'm not going to let this hold me back. I've learnt a lot from the last year and I feel in a much sounder headspace' In the post to his Stories, Ryan wrote: '2023 started well for me and for my family. 'Last Friday it got flipped on his head again. Louise haemorrhaged at home, again. Rushed to hospital for surgery and close monitoring for four days. 'Louise is home now, stable and doing well. She's a warrior! 'Leo has picked up impetigo from nursery. Dad is tired. 'We were supposed to be landing in St Lucia about now for a two-week break. I'll be back online soon.' Family: Louise spent a month in intensive care after welcoming son Leo-Hunter Libbey, 14 months, with boyfriend Ryan in 2021, and suffers with PTSD and post-natal anxiety The reality TV personality was diagnosed with PTSD after suffering complications while giving birth to her son Leo-Hunter in 2021. She later told her followers that Leo-Hunter had been treated in a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) and she had been treated in the adult ICU after the birth. On Christmas Day she shared a heartfelt post paying tribute to the NHS staff who 'worked through the night to save my life'. Claire Foy has revealed she found the fact Matt Smith was paid more than her on The Crown 'really heartbreaking'. The actress, 38, played the lead role of Elizabeth II in the first two seasons of the Netflix show while Matt, 40, starred as her husband Prince Philip. An executive from Left Bank Pictures, the production company that makes The Crown, previously revealed Claire was paid less than Matt for her work on the show. Speaking to The Guardian, the star insisted she was unaware Matt made more than her until the executive made the news public. She said: 'I wasn't shocked. I was upset. Not like, boohoo, crying upset. I was very upset. I don't think I allowed myself to [express anger]'. Candid: Claire Foy has revealed she found the fact Matt Smith was paid more than her on The Crown 'really heartbreaking' Role: The actress, 38, played the lead role of Elizabeth II in the first two seasons of the Netflix show while Matt, 40, starred as her husband Prince Philip 'Sometimes, you see something, you hear something, you notice something, or something happens to you, and you just go, "Oh God, what am I doing? Why am I doing it? Should I be part of this?" I found it really heartbreaking.' Claire said she found it 'odd' to be at the centre of the story when it first emerged and didn't want to be made into a spokesperson for the gender pay gap issue. The Women Talking star added that she still went back on the show for another season after the salary gap became known. She explained: 'We're still talking about this, however many years down the line. I know the extent of it. I still went back on the show. If anything, I just didn't want my experience of the show and what we all did on it to be overshadowed.' Claire said the pay gap row has had a positive impact overall as people can no longer lie about what actors are being paid. Left Bank Pictures apologised to Claire and Matt at the time and claimed sole responsibility in the difference between their salaries. Claire joked her agent probably enjoyed going back to the company later to discuss what she would be paid for the second season. Elsewhere in the interview, Claire discussed having a breakdown in the early days of her acting career as she struggled to deal with the instability of the industry. She said: 'I wasn't shocked. I was upset. Not like, boohoo, crying upset. I was very upset. I don't think I allowed myself to [express anger]' Interview: Claire said she found it 'odd' to be at the centre of the story when it first emerged and didn't want to be made into a spokesperson for the gender pay gap issue She moved from Stockport, Greater Manchester to London and quickly found acting jobs but said she was hardly eating or sleeping at the time as she wanted to work so hard. Claire previously told PorterEdit that she was 'deeply hurt' by the pay gap between her and co-star Matt. She explained: 'I was deeply hurt by [the pay gap], because I'd been working on that show for two years. I loved everybody on it. 'And then I realised, there's been a big, fat, dirty secret that nobody's ever talked about. Then there was also that thing [of being] an inadvertent spokesperson. Why did it have to be me?' She added: 'You feel lucky to have a job. It's so competitive. So, in that way, they rely on competitiveness and actors' vulnerability to say, "They'll accept it for 10 grand less."' 'I could have said nothing. And I think everyone would have preferred that. But I thought, if I do that, I will be cheating myself and all the other women I know.' She is preparing to welcome her second child into the world in just four weeks' time. And Ali Bastian displayed her blooming baby bump in a skin-tight navy jumpsuit as she posed for a sweet snap on Instagram to celebrate reaching the 38th week of her pregnancy on Friday. The former Hollyoaks actress, 40, cradled her tummy as she told her followers that 'nesting is now in full flight' as she prepares to meet her baby girl in the next few weeks. Writing alongside the sweet image, Ali said: 'Bumpdate! 38 weeks this week! Can't believe how soon i will be meeting you baby girl! 'I've gone from feeling like i needed a few more weeks to feeling very ready!! Nesting is now in full flight and if it was safe for me to be up a ladder, i'd be cleaning light bulbs right now! Aren't hormones incredible!?' Glowing: Ali Bastian displayed her blooming baby bump in a skintight navy jumpsuit as she posed for a sweet snap on Instagram to celebrate the 38th week of her pregnancy on Friday Ali continued explaining to her followers that she got pretty emotional while her husband took the photo. She also revealed an adorable video of herself where she can be seen tearing up, and Ali claimed that she didn't realise her husband was taking the video. Ali said, 'I got quite emotional whilst my husband was taking this photo, knowing i will be meeting my baby girl soon. Swipe for the vulnerable little moment on video that i had no idea he had taken!' During the video, the actress's husband, David O'Mahoney, asked her 'why are you crying' to which she explained, teary-eyed 'i'm excited' before proclaiming her love for him. She also shared with her many followers that she had been taking Proceive, a fertility and pregnancy supplement tailored for each life stage throughout her pregnancy. She said in her Instagram post, 'I've been taking @Proceive throughout my pregnancy and love how they are tailored for each trimester - each trimester contains the most comprehensive formula that is scientifically formulated for each stage of conception, pregnancy, and post pregnancy.' She then added, 'I will certainly continue to take Proceive throughout my postpartum and breastfeeding journey.' The soap star gave birth to her first child, daughter Isla, in March 2020, during the first coronavirus lockdown, after tying the knot with her partner, West End actor David O'Mahony, in 2019. Baby coming soon: The former Hollyoaks actress, 40, cradled her tummy as she told her followers that 'nesting is now in full flight' as she prepares to meet her baby girl in a few weeks Excited: Writing alongside the sweet image, Ali said: 'Bumpdate! 38 weeks this week! Can't believe how soon i will be meeting you baby girl! The couple married in an intimate ceremony at the Old Marylebone Town Hall in London before Ali opted to return to work following their honeymoon in the Maldives. Last month, Ali revealed her second pregnancy was 'flying by' because she had been kept busy by her 'wild' toddler Isla. The actress detailed her battle with sleep deprivation while admitting her worries as the two-year-old gears up to start preschool. Happy: Ali also shared a sweet video and her husband, David O'Mahoney, can be heard asking her 'why are you crying'. She then explained, teary-eyed 'i'm excited' before proclaiming her love Ali told MailOnline in an exclusive interview: 'I feel OK actually. I'd say it goes a lot faster the second time around because you're so in the thick of it. Isla's two-and-a-half so I'm running around after a wild toddler. 'And now heavily pregnant with number two, so there are a lot of distractions. Yeah, it's just flying by. I think it's not gonna be too long before she's with us. It's exciting. 'Well, they say every pregnancy is different, but this has actually really been very similar, so far, to my pregnancy with Isla. 'All of my pregnancy symptoms and things have felt really familiar. I do get some peculiar symptoms and when they come on, I'm like "Ohh, OK, I know this now and I know it'll pass".' Ali explained she's constantly reminding herself her experience will be 'different this time because we're not in the middle of a global pandemic'. The exclusive interview comes after Ali announced her pregnancy in an OK! Magazine shoot alongside her husband and daughter in September 2022. Chrisean Rock, 22, showed off her growing baby bump while attending Yung Miami's birthday party on Saturday. The rapper wasn't shy about showing off her tummy and claims she was impregnated by her ex boyfriend Blueface, 26. The model who has flaunted her very volatile relationship on social media wore a purple and orange coordinated top and pants that put her midriff on display. She completed the look with casual white high-top sneakers and a thick diamond chain around her throat, and she wore her long dark hair in sleek waves cascading down her shoulders. She attended the party with cast mate DJ Sky High Baby of Zeus Networks hit show Baddies South Central. Pregnant: Chrisean Rock , 22, showed off her slowly growing baby bump while attending Yung Miami's birthday party on Saturday Fit figure: The model who has flaunted her very volatile relationship on social media wore a purple and orange coordinated top and pants that put her midriff on display Earlier this week, Blueface and his on-again/off-again girlfriend Chrisean walked down the aisle together, but it wasn't for a happily ever after, but rather a music video. Just days after Chrisean announced she was pregnant, Blueface denied the baby was his in a bitter social media matchup. Chrisean shared the big news on her Instagram last Friday in a video wearing a pink velour tracksuit as she cried while explaining, 'My emotions are crazy, they just took my blood pressure right now, and the reason I'm so overwhelmed is because I'm deciding to keep it, obviously.' 'I'm going to have a family, and we're going to have the big baby shower... (sobs) so pray for me,' said the expecting mother as she shared an image of her positive pregnancy test. The social media star said 'I want either twins or triplets,' and seemed to be referring to past abortions when she said 'cause that's how many I killed.' Blueface's reaction to the news was not happy, but one of denial and accusation. The Holy Moly rapper Tweeted, 'To answer yall questions yes me an rock are officially done its strictly business I tried it an clearly it wasnt giving before she announcesshes pregnant with somebody elses child not mine (praying hands emoji).' The Disrespectful artist claimed Chrisean had been with 10 different men and that he won't believe the baby is his until he sees the DNA test results. She's sure it's his: The rapper claims she was impregnated by her ex boyfriend BlueFace, 26 Big News: Last Friday, Chrisean announced she and Blueface are going to have a baby, but her on-again/off-again boyfriend is denying the baby is his Emotions: The TikTok star shared video from a recent doctor's appointment saying 'my emotions are crazy... and the reason I'm so overwhelmed is because I'm deciding to keep it, obviously' Happy Birthday: Blueface denied he was the father on Twitter. Chrisean responded writing 'Happy birthday Baby Daddy' Hope: The reality star said she hopes to have more than one baby. 'I want either twins or triplets,' and seemed to be referring to past abortions when she said 'cause that's how many I killed' Chrisean responded to that with 'Promise you. I dont need a cent from u. Then wen we do a DNA test and its yours just know Ill tell my children you died so u wouldnt have a excuse to be in the child life. This my baby n dats dat.' The former couple share a very volatile past. In early December, they both went on social media showing off what appeared to be the results of their latest altercation, two black eyes on the Bleed It rapper's face, allegedly delivered by Chrisean. The rapper, whose legal name is Jonathan Jamall Porter, has a son, Javaughn, five, from a prior relationship. Hope: The reality star said she hopes to have more than one baby. 'I want either twins or triplets,' and seems to be referring to past abortions when she say 'cause that's how many I killed' No vows: Blueface and Chrisean Rock may have walked down the aisle together, but apparently, it wasn't for a happily ever after, but rather a music video On scene: Blueface and Rock shown together last June in Houston Denial: Blueface accused his former flame of being with multiple men since their last breakup and said he wants a DNA test conducted It's uncertain how much new music the rapper will be able to make in the near future. The Daddy artist, whose legal name is Jonathan Jamall Porter, is facing attempted murder charges for allegedly shooting at a car in Las Vegas. He remains free on $50,000 bond. A court date is scheduled for later this month. Chrisean's most popular song is Vibe, which has 3.8M plays on Spotify and 12M plays on Youtube. Susanna Reid was over the moon this week as she celebrated 'terrific' viewing figures for Good Morning Britain. The broadcaster, 52, took to Twitter to share her delight that the breakfast news show had hit their highest figures since June 2021. And it appears it was a needed uplift, after the presenter was said to be furious earlier this week following a string of embarrassing errors on GMB. Susanna allegedly 'made her feelings very clear' and confronted senior executives after a series of blunders and mistakes made their way into the live broadcast. Spelling mistakes, wrong dates and graphic mis-designs have all slipped through during live broadcasts of the show in recent weeks, leaving the host allegedly embarrassed. Susanna Reid celebrated GMB's sky-high viewing figures this week as she celebrated the highest number Sharing a grab of herself and co-host Ben Shephard on the show to Twitter this Friday, Susanna detailed her delight at fans tuning into the show. She wrote: 'RATINGS: terrific figures for yesterdays @gmb (and a great week) highest Thursday numbers since June 2021, up 9% and +3.8 share points against the same day last year. 'We love that you are watching. Back on Monday with @benshephard'. While earlier this week, it was reported that Susanna was unhappy with errors that were being made by production crew on the show. Among the errors was one incident in which News Correspondent Ben Chapman's name was spelt incorrectly during his live broadcast from Romania. As Ranvir Singh presented the segment, she introduced Ben for his section - with his name appearing on the screen as 'Ben Champan'. Another incident saw GMB air a segment paying tribute to the death of Lisa Marie Presley, with the word 'remembering' also spelt wrong on screen, as the graphic read: 'Remebering'. And that wasn't all, as the wrong date was shown while Susanna was presenting the show one morning. Happy with that: Sharing a grab of herself and co-host Ben Shephard on the show to Twitter this Friday, Susanna detailed her delight at fans tuning into the show Furious? And it appears it was a needed uplift, after the presenter was said to be furious earlier this week following a string of embarrassing errors on GMB A source told The Sun: 'She made her feelings very clear, and confronted the senior executives over it. 'Susanna is totally professional and just wants high standards as Piers or any other presenter would have done. 'The last thing anyone wants is her walking away in anger.' Susanna doesn't appear to be the only one aggravated by the gaffes, as some viewers took to Twitter during the live morning shows to highlight GMB's mistakes. Calling out a poster it had made for rugby player Levi Simeon Davis, who went missing in October 2022, many noticed that the wrong year was printed on the graphic. '@gmb your poster for missing Levi has wrong date on it - says October 2023,' wrote on viewer. Oops: Among the errors was one incident in which News Correspondent Ben Chapman's name was spelt incorrectly during a live broadcast from Romania Blunder: While another incident saw GMB air a segment paying tribute to Lisa Marie Presley, with the word 'remembering' spelled incorrectly on screen as 'remebering' Getting noticed: Susanna doesn't appear to be the only one aggravated by the gaffes, as some viewers took to Twitter during the live morning shows to call out GMB on its mistakes Good Morning Blunders: The errors that occurred on air News Correspondent Ben Chapman's name was spelt incorrectly during a live broadcast from Romania While paying tribute to Lisa Marie Presley, the word 'remembering' was spelt incorrectly The wrong date was shown while Susanna was presenting one morning Presenter Richard Madeley misgendered Sam Smith, who goes by they/them pronouns Advertisement While another advised: 'Your poster shown on this morning's news for the missing male is wrong check the date it's showing October 2023 #GMB.' Good Morning Britain got into some hot water last week, too, but this time it was a verbal error from presenter Richard rather than a typo. The presenter was left apologising for misgendering Sam Smith, who uses the pronounds they/them. Richard had been debating whether or not Sam's latest music video for I'm Not Here To Make Friends is over-sexualised when the slip-up happened - where he accidentally referred to Sam as 'he'. Co-host Susanna was quick to correct his mistake - and Richard then apologised. And while a panel was discussing the video, Richard also misgendered guest Shivani Dave, who uses they/them pronouns. Richard apologised a second time and said: 'I am so sorry. I will learn to do that.' Shivani later tweeted: 'Been getting messages from people worried about Richard Madley misgendering me on @GMB 'I corrected him, he apologised and took it on board. A masterclass on how to do things if you mess up, we shared a thumbs up and I told him his hair looks great.' Sorry: Good Morning Britain got into some hot water last week too as presenter Richard Madeley was left apologising for misgendering Sam Smith, who goes by they/them pronouns Incorrrect: Richard had been debating whether or not Sam's latest music video for I'm Not Here To Make Friends was over-sexualised when he slipped up by accidentally referring to Sam as 'him' Having grown up in Croydon and studied broadcast journalism, Susanna had her big break presenting on BBC Breakfast from 2003 to 2014 with the late Bill Turnbull, before moving to Good Morning Britain. There she famously had the unenviable task of trying to get a word in edgeways alongside Piers Morgan, until he left abruptly in March 2021 following comments he made about the Duchess of Sussex. There's been no permanent male anchor since, rather a revolving cast including Richard Madeley, Martin Lewis, Ed Balls and Rob Rinder. Owen Warner has admitted that seeing his ex-girlfriend Lana Jenkins with other men on Love Island is 'weird' and adds that he 'won't be watching'. The Hollyoaks star, 23, and the makeup artist, 25, enjoyed a summer romance with the famous actor back in 2020, following his very public split from Stephanie Davies. Lana and Owen confirmed their romance via Instagram as she shared a sweet snap of them together in June 2020. The duo beamed as they cuddled up outside in the picture, which has now been deleted, holding each others hands. It is not known when they split, but the I'm A Celebrity runner-up has spoken publicly about his ex by wishing her well during her time on the show. 'Weird': Owen Warner has admitted that seeing his ex-girlfriend Lana Jenkins with other men on Love Island is 'weird' and adds that he 'won't be watching' Speaking to The Mirror, Owen said: 'Shes a lovely girl and people will love her, but Im not going to be watching. I feel like watching your ex move on to other people is a bit weird.' He added: 'I wish her luck no doubt shes going to smash it.' Owen has also had a mention while Lana's been on the show, as talk turned to exes in a game of Never Have I Ever. When Lana revealed who her famous ex was, Lana's love interest Ron Hall expressed his dismay. 'So basically, Im competing with someone whos just come runner-up on a massive show whos an actor and I work in finance,' Ron said. 'Yeah, erm, sick. This is great.' Lana and Owen began dating following Owen's split from fellow soap star Stephanie, who he dated for nine months before their split in September 2019. Lana and Owen found love with after being introduced through mutual friends when she worked on CBBC's So Awkward and was good friends with many of the Hollyoaks' cast. However, just months later, it was reported that the couple had sadly decided to part ways. Love interest: The Hollyoaks star, 23, and the makeup artist, 25, enjoyed a summer romance with the famous actor back in 2020, following his very public split from Stephanie Davies. But now she is involved with her co-star Ron Hall (pictured together) in the villa Opening up: Speaking to The Mirror , Owen said: 'Shes a lovely girl and people will love her, but Im not going to be watching. I feel like watching your ex move on to other people is a bit weird' But keeping the relationship under wraps, Lana revealed a slightly different encounter when she was asked for a 'claim to fame' by ITV2. The beauty revealed that she appeared in an episode of TV comedy Benidorm when she was six-years-old and living in Spain, while nowadays her work as a makeup artist sees her working with 'lots of celebrities'. There was more drama in store for Lana and Ron during Friday's episode as Samie Elishi exposed his secret conversations. Speaking out: There was more drama in store for Love Island's Lana and Ron during Friday's episode as Samie Elishi (pictured) exposed his secret conversations Despite claiming Lana was his priority, Ron continued to chat to the other girls in the villa, prompting Lana to become wary of their relationship. However, Lana was chosen by Aaron Waters in the latest recoupling and bombshell Casey O'Gorman caught her eye after he arrived in the villa. Keen to win the affections of Lana back, Ron promised to focus on her and competed with Casey to make her breakfast. But, as Lana began to open up to the idea of giving Ron a chance on Friday's episode, Samie suggested he could be hiding his true feelings from Lana. Lady Victoria Hervey enjoyed a beauty clinic launch on Saturday with a host of celebrities. The model and socialite, 46, cut a chic figure in a cream roll-neck jumper as the Dermanda Clinic opened its doors. She paired her look with grey jeans and black studded boots for the event in London's Harley Street. Victoria wore her blonde locks in loose waves and accessorised with several bracelets. Posing for snaps with head practitioner Awatif Mandour and Dr Natalia Perez, Lady Victoria beamed as she attended the launch. Beauty: Lady Victoria Hervey cut a stylish figure in a muted ensemble as she attended the opening of the Dermanda Clinic in London's Harley Street on Saturday She looked glowing for the day out, wearing glittery eyeshadow and a touch of pale pink lipstick. Victoria was joined by a number of other celebrities at the launch including Love Island twins Eve and Jessica Gale and TOWIE's Georgia Harrison. Eve flashed a hint of her toned midriff in a cropped furry leather jacket paired with black leggings and trainers. She swept her blonde locks into a high ponytail, keeping her accessories minimal. Meanwhile, Georgia looked gorgeous in a ribbed cream jumper and white cargo pants. And Jessica opted for a cropped white figure-hugging jumper, donning pale pink leggings. The outing comes after Victoria recently moved back to London from Los Angeles after living in the US for over two decades. The model sparked rumours of a return to the UK last year and has now decided the A-list packed city is 'not what it used to be'. Stunner: The model and socialite cut a chic figure in a cream roll-neck jumper as she attended the swanky opening with a slew of stars Smiles: The socialite grinned with Awatif Mandour in the clinic as they celebrated the opening of the venue Fun: Victoria also posed together with Dr Natalia Perez in the clinic with Awatif as she enjoyed her day out Together: Victoria was joined by a number of other celebrities including TOWIE's Georgia Harrison, who posed with the clinic bosses Not one to mince her words, the beauty told The Daily Mail's Richard Eden: 'All my friends in LA have left because its a s***hole.' Chatting to Eden at the opening of the Frameless digital art gallery in Marble Arch, Victoria continued: Its nice if you dont leave the house, but, as soon as you leave, you see the homeless, crackheads and half-naked women with no teeth throwing things at you. Its not safe and not what it used to be,' explained the former 'It girl'. London-born Victoria is the daughter of the 6th Marquess of Bristol, half-sister of the 7th Marquess, and sister of the 8th Marquess and Lady Isabella Hervey - and moved to Los Angeles in 2004. Victoria has since been sharing a slew of snaps to her 443k Instagram followers upon returning to the UK, taking in all of the capital's landmarks once again. Glam: Georgia looked gorgeous in a ribbed cream jumper and white cargo pants paired with a grey blazer Twins: Eve flashed a hint of her toned midriff in a cropped furry leather jacket while her twin Georgia looked gorgeous in a ribbed cream jumper and white cargo pants Pals: Eve, Georgia and Jessica were all smiles as they posed at the Dermada Clinic in Harley Street Victoria has been sharing a slew of snaps to her 443k Instagram followers upon returning to the UK, taking in all of the capital's landmarks once again. And it seems moving wasn't the only big change that the socialite has considered, previously explaining how she was considering starting a family before the Covid-19 pandemic happened - but is glad now she didn't. She admitted that pregnancy magazine Project Baby had also influenced her thinking as she has a prospective sperm donor/father lined up, should she decide to start a family. Stylish: Georgia also sported a pair of sunglasses for the afternoon out in London to celebrate the clinic launch Enjoying time out: Eve, Georgia and Jessica have fun at the launch with Dr Perez in Harley Street Grins: Eve, Dr Perez, and Jessica pose together at the event in London as they celebrate the opening Six of her eggs were frozen and stored three years ago, at a cost of 11,000, and she spent the time afterwards looking for a donor. 'I had a friend who was going to be my sperm donor. He was going to be involved in my child's life, but as a friend, not a partner,' she explained. 'And I was supposed to be pregnant now. But then Covid happened, which was a big blow, but looking back I'm really grateful I didn't do it with that person. He just wasn't right.' It was the stellar event that should have been a gleeful career highlight for even the most illustrious luxury-wedding planners. Yet though the world looked on in delighted fascination when Brooklyn Beckham married Nicola Peltz last year, the whole celebration has been irretrievably soured for two women involved in its planning but who were fired at the 11th hour. Last week, the bride's father, billionaire Nelson Peltz, launched a lawsuit demanding his $159,000 (132,000) deposit back from wedding planners Nicole Braghin and Arianna Grijalba over alleged 'mistakes'. But last night, in a world exclusive interview with The Mail on Sunday, the pair blasted back against what they claim is a 'frivolous' lawsuit. Speaking from their homes in Florida, they claimed they worked around the clock to ensure the $3.5 million (2.9 million) wedding went off flawlessly last April. Brooklyn Beckham (left) married actress Nicola Peltz (right) in 2022, in Palm Beach, Florida The women have spent 17 years building up their business, Plan Design Events, and say they have never before had a single complaint filed against them. According to the wedding planners: Bride Nicola sent them a gushing text the day before they were fired saying: 'You're killing it!' They worked 17-hour days and claim they are owed more than $159,000 for the work they did. Brooklyn Beckham was 'sweet' and 'a gentleman' and sent them a message saying: 'Thank you guys so much for everything you're doing.' Nicole, a 42-year-old mother- of-two who was born in Brazil and came to the US aged ten, said: 'We love what we do and we're good at it,' adding that 'never once in that time' have they ever felt 'bullied or disrespected by any of our clients'. 'My daughter gives the best job description when she says "my mommy makes dreams come true". If it was Mr Peltz's mission to damage our reputations, impact our business and hurt our families then mission accomplished.' The women were approached by Mr Peltz, 80, and his third wife Claudia, 67, a former model, on February 23 last year. Wedding planners Nicole Braghin (right) and Arianna Grijalba (left) blasted the $159,000 lawsuit launched by the bride's father, billionaire Nelson Peltz Pictured: Text messages sent between party planners behind the scenes of Nicola Peltz's Palm Beach wedding to Brooklyn Beckham Nicola, the 28-year-old daughter of billionaire investor Nelson Peltz, went through three different sets of wedding planners, two of whom failed to meet the 'scale' of her plans The Peltzes had grand plans for a three-day wedding extravaganza at the family's 75 million estate in Palm Beach, Florida. Five hundred guests from around the world were flying in, as groom's parents David and Victoria Beckham were joined by Eva Longoria, Gordon Ramsay, Serena and Venus Williams and many other celebrity pals. In the lawsuit, Mr Peltz describes his daughter as an international star, saying: 'Nicola is a world-famous actress who has starred in blockbuster movies and television shows including, among others, Transformers: Age of Extinction, Bates Motel and The Last Airbender.' The Peltzes had been working for nearly a year with wedding planner Preston Bailey, an icon in the industry who arranged the weddings of Catherine Zeta-Jones and Michael Douglas and Ivanka Trump and Jared Kushner. Mr Peltz claims the two women 'misrepresented' themselves and proved incapable of pulling off such a complex event. The lawsuit contains emails in which Nicola tells the planners she is 'tired of catching' their mistakes. Nicole and Arianna are unable to comment on the specifics of the case for legal reasons. But their lawyer David Rosemberg told the MoS the lawsuit does not paint a full picture: 'My clients have impeccable reputations within the event-planning industry and among their high-end clientele worldwide. They operate their business with the utmost integrity and discretion. 'The lawsuit that was filed by Nelson Peltz is frivolous and unimpressive. Relevant and complete emails and text messages that address the misleading statements contained in the complaint will be revealed in discovery as part of my clients' response to the complaint, including in support of the counterclaim they intend to file.' The aspiring chef, 23, and the actress, 27, had a three-day wedding extravaganza In his lawsuit, Mr Peltz claims the women were out of their depth: 'During their nine days of negotiations (they) failed to book a single new wedding vendor, failed to finalise the terms of any agreements with any of the vendors that had previously been selected by Peltz and his family and failed to attend previously scheduled meetings with Peltz.' Mr Rosemberg said: 'Nobody has seen all the texts or any of the emails.' The MoS understands the wedding planners will reveal texts showing their work was being praised. In one text from Nicola Peltz on March 3, she writes: 'You're killing it!' In another, Brooklyn writes: 'Thank you guys so much for everything you're doing.' Arianna says: 'Brooklyn is a very sweet person. He treated us with respect and courtesy. He is a gentleman. We have nothing but respect for the Beckhams.' A text from Nicola's assistant, sent after the planners were fired, praises them for 'getting s*** done'. The women claim that Mr Peltz phoned Arianna after the women were dismissed. She says: 'Two days after we got fired, Nelson called me and he said, "Arianna, are you crying?" And I said, "No, why would I be crying?" 'And he said "OK, so are you laughing now?" and I said, "No." 'Then he stayed quiet and I stayed quiet and he said "I don't know why I called you", and then he hung up.' The Peltz family hired a third wedding planner, Michelle Rago, who Mr Peltz says ended up charging him extra because she was hired at such short notice. Additional reporting: Daniel Bates in New York Their bitter divorce dominated headlines and resulted in a multi-million pound payout three years ago. But it seems Ant McPartlin and Lisa Armstrongs acrimonious split is not yet over, as they are battling for custody of their chocolate labrador, Hurley. The pair agreed to share the dog after their marriage collapsed five years ago. But The Mail on Sunday can reveal that the arrangement is now being disputed, with Ms Armstrong telling her ex-husband she wants Hurley to live with her full-time. McPartlin, 47, now lives with his new wife and former personal assistant Anne-Marie Corbett, and has added two maltipoos (Maltese and poodle crossbreeds), called Milo and Bumble, to his family. The fact he has two dogs of his own has prompted Ms Armstrong, 46, to request Hurley lives with her permanently. It is understood the Saturday Night Takeaway star is refusing to give up shared custody. It seems Ant McPartlin and Lisa Armstrongs acrimonious split is not yet over, as they are battling for custody of their chocolate labrador, Hurley The pair agreed to share the dog after their marriage collapsed five years ago. Pictured: Lisa Armstrong with Hurley Currently, the dog spends half the time living at McPartlins 6 million mansion in Wimbledon, South-West London, and the other half at Ms Armstrongs West London home, with the TV presenters chauffeur reportedly doing the handover so the exes dont have to see each other. A source close to McPartlin said: Lisa has asked to have Hurley but Ant is saying no. He has two more dogs now, a new wife and two stepdaughters, but still he wants joint custody. It has led to some difficult conversations between Ant and Lisa. Its all very sad. Ant has been able to move on, get remarried and get two more dogs. Lisa has been left to pick up the pieces. Hurley was adopted by the couple in 2013 while they struggled to conceive a child. During their divorce battle, Ant is said to have told lawyers: She can have anything she wants except the dog. And in an interview at the time he said: Theres a loyalty and a love and a companionship with Hurley that you cant describe. We still share quite evenly. Hurleys welfare comes first and we both love him very much. Meanwhile Lisa is said to refer to Hurley as her baby boy. Ms Armstrong and McPartlin met at a concert in the mid-1990s, when McPartlin was performing with his on-screen partner Declan Donnelly as PJ & Duncan. Currently, the dog spends half the time living at McPartlins 6 million mansion in Wimbledon, South-West London, and the other half at Ms Armstrongs (pictured) West London home But in 2018 McPartlin ended their marriage, shortly after he went to rehab for addiction issues. Ms Armstrong had stood by his side and supported him throughout his troubles. A few months later, he crashed his car head-on into another vehicle in Richmond, South-West London, while over the drink-drive limit. It later emerged that McPartlin was in a relationship with Ms Corbett, now 46, who had been employed by the married couple as their personal assistant. In their acrimonious divorce, it was reported that Ms Armstrong was given millions although sources say that figure was much inflated. Make-up artist Ms Armstrong, who works on Strictly Come Dancing, is now in a relationship with artist James Green. Tonight, James Nortons evil Happy Valley character Tommy Lee Royce will come face-to-face with his nemesis Catherine Cawood, in what promises to be the most dramatic television finale of the year. Bully Royce jailed for abduction and multiple murders before Happy Valley viewers saw him escape two weeks ago has hinted he will kill the shows protagonist, played by Sarah Lancashire. For Norton, it was the BBC1 drama that set him on his journey to fame. He has even said that he owes it everything. But it was being bullied himself which prompted him to turn to acting, after other students made his life a misery at the 40,000-a-year Ampleforth College dubbed the Catholic Eton where he boarded as a red-headed, freckly child. This pushed him towards the schools theatre department, where he became a mainstay. James Nortons evil Happy Valley character Tommy Lee Royce will come face-to-face with his nemesis Catherine Cawood, in what promises to be 2023's most dramatic television finale Bully Royce jailed for abduction and murder before Happy Valley viewers saw him escape has hinted he will kill the shows protagonist, Catherine Cawood, played by Sarah Lancashire Norton has revealed being bullied himself prompted him to turn to acting, after other students made his life a misery at the 40,000-a-year Ampleforth College dubbed the Catholic Eton where he boarded as a red-headed, freckly child. Pictured: Norton in his younger years I had a complicated time at school. I didnt have the greatest time, Norton admits. It wasnt helped by the fact that I was bullied. I was quite badly bullied for five years and I was also at boarding school so I couldnt leave. But I owe that school a lot. I loved theatre, I made some good friends. Theres a magic to the place. Its intoxicating to be part of something so big, with that atmosphere of grandeur, when youre in such a period of flux. The abuse, he says, left him hyper aware socially. Possibly to a fault, he adds. I constantly critique how Im affecting people and how Im being judged. Nortons bullying experiences were so bad that he sought psychological help to get through it. He says: With the help of a therapist, in a weird, perverse way Im kind of grateful for it. Ive had a great therapist for the last four years, and its not from a place of drama. Im luckily not suffering from depression or anything like that but its been really, really helpful in understanding what [happened to me at school]. While his character Royces backstory involves a drug-addicted mother and being jailed for drug-related offences, Norton had a more privileged background. Norton is now being tipped to become the next James Bond and the chatter within the film industry is that his role on Happy Valley will have boosted his chances The son of a teachers Lavinia and Hugh Norton, he was born in Lambeth, South London, before enjoying an idyllic childhood in the market town of Malton, north Yorkshire. He later went to Cambridge University where he was awarded a first in Theology. After attending RADA, in 2013 he was cast in Happy Valley. Despite being his breakout role, it came with downsides he was no longer seen in the acting world as posh. Britain is obsessed with class, he says, and our industry is obsessed with pigeonholes. Having been to Cambridge and speaking with a specific accent I did run that risk. When Happy Valley came out I had people ringing my agent and saying, We have this part but its posh, Im not sure James is right for it. My agent was punching the air, its a perfect part, a hand of aces, and you dont get many of those throughout your career. Indeed he was right. Next came Grantchester, then McMafia and then Hollywood in Little Women, alongside Florence Pugh. Norton is now being tipped to become the next James Bond and the chatter within the film industry is that his role on Happy Valley will have boosted his chances. He remains tight-lipped, telling Vera (Virgin Atlantics in-flight magazine): Its flattering to be in the conversation. With such success, of course, come girlfriends. First up there was Jessie Buckley star of BBC drama War And Peace before their split in 2017. She was left devastated at their parting, saying: We have broken up, yes. It was acrimonious. He is a great man and we are great friends. Thats it. How diplomatic can I sound? Heart-throb Norton, 37, went on to date actress and model Imogen Poots, 33 alumni of Latymer school in Hammersmith, West London whom he met in 2017 when they starred together in play Belleville at the Donmar Warehouse. The couple have a flat in Peckham, South-East London, and are currently renovating a home in East London. They are about to marry after Norton got down on one knee last February. Norton though, is busy. He has just started filming the Bob Marley biopic opposite Kingsley Ben-Adir, who plays the reggae legend and has just finished Men Of Divorce alongside Rosanna Arquette. He admits that filming Happy Valley has been enormously special for him and reveals that even his friends on the other side of the Atlantic have become enthralled with the show. Theres a fascination with it, its a brilliant police procedural but at its heart its about family. What translates across the world is that everyone knows what it is to have messed-up families that you cant tear yourself away from. Its cool. I got a DM [social-media message] from Amy Schumer, and Bob Dylan loves the show too. Michael' is a genre movie trying too hard to look the part and unfortunately, it shows. Set in the mid-90s, Michael begins "after the climax" as Swamy (Ayyappa Sharma) narrates the story of Michael to the people looking for him. Arriving in Bombay in the 1980s, Michael is a troubled, brooding young boy with a temper issue and a sordid past. It becomes clear that he doesnt like to talk when he can just get the other guy to see things his way through his fists. It is his quest for vengeance that leads him to cross paths with Gurunath (Gautham Vasudev Menon), who takes him under his wing and after another fateful encounter where Michael (Sundeep Kishan) saves him from certain death yet again, raises him to a position of power by his side. Suspecting a former associate Rathan (Anish Kuruvilla) being one of those responsible for his attack, Gurunath sends Michael on a mission to find the absconding Rathan by staking out his daughters Theeras (Divyansha Kaushik) house in Delhi. As Michael follows Theera, he falls in love with her despite all her cautioning him not to. This leads to a sequence of events that will ultimately lead to Michael taking charge of his own destiny and fighting for his love against all odds in this supercharged, adrenaline-driven gangster film. Action movies are the easiest means of delivering a choreographed spectacle to a captive audience. It is, indeed, extremely difficult to get an action movie wrong. However, Michael is a casualty of its own over-ambitiousness. Inhabiting a strange intersection between Sacred Games, RX100 and KGF, this movie seems to borrow a little bit of what made each one of these films uniquely memorable. Whether it is the heavy influence of Moosas storyline on Menons performance as the gangster Gurunath, or Theeras honey trap for Michael, everything that happens on screen is in a manner reminiscent of its far superior inspirations. Sundeep Kishans portrayal of the titular character does have a tone of subtlety to it, however, it does fall through the cracks occasionally. The strong, silent protagonist prone to outbursts of explosive rage works better as a character on paper than most of its execution on screen. However, to Sundeep Kishans credit, this happens mostly over the films many long drawn-out sequences that occur a little too frequently for anyones taste. The movies breathtaking visuals are a wonderful blend of art direction, costume design, and masterful cinematography. Debuting with Michael as a cinematographer, Kiran Koushik effortlessly brings grandeur to the big screen and for many reasons, the cinematography alone gives the audience a reason to hang on to the otherwise insipid story. This means that Michael, at times, can seem like an extended montage at places. With so many scenes dedicated to building its sullen, tacit protagonist up, the movie spends most of its time featuring Sundeep Kishan brooding away listlessly at nothing in particular. All too aware of its own aesthetic appeal in these moments, it hangs too comfortably over glorified beauty shots of actors as well as its alluring sets. The music is nothing to write home about, but the background score truly shines. The theme has a punch to it, and effectively sets the tone of the movie. The most unfortunate aspect of Michael, unfortunately, has to be the stock performances of its cast. By no means wooden, the glaring discrepancies in the synergy of performances show when the central and supporting cast refuse to share any manner of consistent chemistry on screen. Michael is a genre movie trying too hard to look the part and unfortunately, it shows. While it may believe - even sincerely - that it is an homage to the action heroes of the norm; or that it is merely a repurposed vehicle for everything the audience desires to watch in an action movie, it ends up merely being a formula film that severely falls short of successfully emulating all the tropes it relies so heavily on to be taken seriously at all. Director: Ranjit Jeyakodi Cinematographer: Kiran Koushik Cast: Sundeep Kishan, Divyansha Kaushik, Gautam Vasudev Menon Legendary Filmmaker & Actor K.Vishwanath. (Twitter) KAKINADA: Eminent cine director K. Viswanath, who breathed his last in Hyderabad late Thursday night, loved River Godavari, particularly villages and towns on it, like Kovvuru and in particular Rajamahendravaram. Sankarabharanam, his most celebrated film, had been shot almost entirely in the erstwhile Godavari districts. He loved the districts for two reasons one their natural beauty. The other, their soft-spoken and tradition-loving people. He waxed eloquent about the Godavari districts, describing them as "Natures Studio and Gods gift to humanity." The captivating opening scenes of Viswanath classic "Sankarabharanam" had been shot with J.V. Somayajulu (Sankara Sastry) and Manju Bhargavi, the dancer, on the ghats of Godavari at Rajamahendravaram, Kovvuru, Annavaram and Ramachandrapuram. The veteran director also depicted the Zamindari culture of those times grippingly, with the dancer raped by the Zamindar. Viswanath developed friendship with many film personalities from East Godavari. Jit Mohan Mitra from Rajamahendravaram recalled his association with the great director. "With cine actor Ravu Gopala Raos intervention, I got a role in "Sarada" starring Sobhan Babu and Sarada. From then on, I acted in 21 films under Viswanaths direction. I loved all locations in the great directors movies. Though he has left the world, he will remain in the hearts of people through his films," Mitra observed at a condolence meeting he organised on the death of Vishwanath in Rajamahendravaram on Friday. Sankarabharanam, Swathi Muthyam, Sarada, Sirivennela, Sirisirimuvva, Seethamahalakshmi, President Peramma, Swathi Kiranam and Shruthilayalu, among others, had all been shot on banks of River Godavari. Recalled S.V. Appalacharyar, founder secretary of Mayura Nataka Kala Parishad based in Ramachandrapuram: "I travelled for 21 days along with Viswanath. When he dressed formally, he joked and remained jovial. Once he wore khaki dress, he appeared fully disciplined and committed to work. He never compromised until he lived the scene," Appalacharyar said remembering Viswanath and the many movies that had been shot at "Rajavari Kota. Famous lyricist Sirivilli Seetharama Sastry had been working in telecom department at Kakinada when Viswanath asked him to write the lyrics for "Sirivennela". The songs captured the imagination of people to such an extent that the lyricist, from then on, came to be known as "Sirivennela" Seetharama Sastry. Spiritual speaker Chaganti Koteswara Rao got so inspired by Sankarabharanam that he delivered a lecture on the film. People questioned him why he chose to speak at length on a commercial film. Koteswara Rao responded saying the film encompassed many facets of Indian culture, which the great director had taken to another dimension. Therefore, there is no impropriety in speaking about the subject. The haunting song "Godaralle-Vennetlo Godaralle" in Siri Siri Muvva released in late 1970s has been described by film critics as Viswanaths ode to River Godavari. Posani asserted that he will make all efforts to develop the Telugu film industry, especially in Visakhapatnam. (File Photo) Vijayawada: Andhra Pradesh Film, Television and Theatre Development Corporation chairman Posani Krishna Murali vowed to promote Telugu film industry in a big way in the state. After assuming charge as chairman of the corporation at a programme held here on Friday, he said he is familiar with problems being faced by the film industry in both the Telugu states of AP and TS. He assured to take these issues to notice of Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy and get them solved. Posani asserted that he will make all efforts to develop the Telugu film industry, especially in Visakhapatnam. Former information minister Perni Venkataramaiah alias Perni Nani said with state government already allocating 100 acres of land in Visakhapatnam for the film industry, he is confident that the new corporation chairman Posani Krishna Murali will fulfil the CMs wish of making the steel city focus of the Telugu film industry. Speaking on the occasion, film producer C. Kalyan expressed confidence that the Telugu film industry will shift to Visakhapatnam within six months. Information and public relations commissioner T. Vijay Kumar Reddy and AP Telugu Academy chairperson Lakshmi Parvathi were among those present on the occasion. Some farmers of Rati village who had lands in the bordering villages, in Thanur mandal of Telangana, are getting Rythu Bandhu and Rythu Bheema. (DC File Image) ADILABAD: Several Maharashtra farmers are getting Telangana's Rythu Bandhu and Rythu Bheema benefits for their lands in the villages in the border regions of Telangana and they have become models in Maharashtra for the expansion of the BRS. These beneficiaries of the Telangana welfare schemes can now showcase these to the other farmers of Maharashtra at the precise time when the BRS is making serious efforts to expand the new national party into that state. A deceased farmers family recently got Rs 5 lakh under Rythu Bheema. Sainath, husband of a woman farmer (as a nominee) got Rs 5 lakh ex gratia under Rythu Bheema after the wife died recently of ill-health. Sainath is a native of Rati village in Bhokar taluka of Maharashtra. Some farmers of Rati village who had lands in the bordering villages, in Thanur mandal of Telangana, are getting Rythu Bandhu and Rythu Bheema. The BRS leaders are putting them in the forefront as model farmers already getting the benefits of Telanganas welfare schemes for their lands in the bordering Thanur mandal in Nirmal district of Telangana. BRS leaders are currently focusing on induction of the sarpanches from Maharashtra into the BRS. These leaders think they would get a foothold in the Maharashtra villages in order to strengthen the new party from the grassroots. According to sources, 50 sitting sarpanches from Dharmabad area and 100 locally influential leaders from various villages from the Kinwat, Shivuni, Himayathnagar, Kini, Apparaopet and Bhokar areas are likely to join the BRS in the presence of KCR at the Nanded meeting. Forest and endowment minister Allola Indrakaran Reddy admitted that some of the Maharashtra farmers were getting Telangana governments welfare schemes such as Rythu Bandhu and Rythu Bheema. He said this would help in the expansion of the BRS to Maharashtra. BRS leader and former Adilabad Zilla Parishad chairman Lolam Shyamsunder said nearly 25 farmers of Rati village purchased agricultural lands and some Maharashtra farmers already had land in Telanganas bordering villages. He said the matter came to light during BRS leaders interaction with the local farmers on Thursday. Rati village is 3km away from Bheltharoda, the last village in Thanur mandal of the Nirmal district of Telangana. The Assembly and Council will take up debate on the motion of thanks to the Governor's address on Saturday. (Photo: Twitter/@TelanganaCMO) HYDERABAD: The Business Advisory Committee (BAC) of the Legislative Assembly met on Friday but could not finalise the working days for the Budget Session. It was decided to present the Budget on February 6 and discuss it from February 8. The Assembly and Council will take up debate on the motion of thanks to the Governor's address on Saturday. Chief Minister K. Chandrashekar Rao will reply to the debate. In the BAC meeting, the Congress pitched for a 25-day session. Congress Legislature Party leader Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka argued that there were several important issues concerning the people that needed to be addressed. AIMIM wanted the Session for at least 20 days. AIMIM floor leadar Asaduddin Owaisi wrote to Speaker Pocharam Srinivas Reddy listing 25 issues that need debate. He said the Assembly had met for 62 days in the four years till 2022. During the previous term (2014-18), the Assembly sat for 126 days," he said. He pointed out that the Question Hour was dispensed with too often and no discussions were held in various forms. Legislative affairs minister Vemula Prashanth Reddy said the government would consider the requests of the Opposition for a longer Budget Session and a decision will be taken in the next BAC meeting on February 8. It is learnt that the government is willing to hold budget session only for a week until February 15. The FBI is expected to search former Vice President Mike Pences house in Indiana and office in Washington for additional classified materials soon, sources familiar with the matter tell CNN. Pences representatives have been in talks with the Justice Department over the searches and have expressed that they want to completely cooperate. The Pence team does not believe there are classified documents either at his home or at his office as they have done what they considered an extensive search themselves, a source said. CNN reported last month that earlier in January, a lawyer for Pence found about a dozen documents marked as classified at the former vice presidents home. The former vice president had directed his lawyer, Matt Morgan, who has experience handling classified material, to conduct the search. A source who was briefed on some of the Pence documents previously told CNN that the government papers recovered from his home were lower level classification, without any sensitive compartmented information or special access programs markings. On Wednesday, the FBI completed a search of President Joe Bidens Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, home and found no documents with classified markings, according to Bidens personal lawyer. In the wake of the classified document discoveries at Pence, Biden and former President Donald Trumps homes, the National Archives formally asked former presidents and vice presidents to re-check their personal records for any classified documents or other presidential records, CNN has reported. Nanded turned pink with BRS flags and huge cutouts of Chandrashekar Rao dotting the city roads and thoroughfares. (Photo: DC) Nanded: The stage is all set for the first-ever BRS meeting outside Telangana when party president Chief Minister K. Chandrashekar Rao will address a public meeting at 1 pm in Nanded on Sunday. Nanded turned pink with BRS flags and huge cutouts of Chandrashekar Rao dotting the city roads and thoroughfares. Keeping in mind the local dialect and to reach out to them, BRS posters and banners were in Marathi and Hindi Paksh Pravesh Sohla (Party joining the programme in Marathi) and Abhki Baar Kisan Sarkar, the last also figuring prominently on the air balloons. Maharashtra police took possession of the venue while their Telangana counterparts supervised the arrangements from a security point of view. The venue can only accommodate 10,000 people as only a portion of the ground is being used for the meeting. Efforts are underway to mobilise people from the villages bordering either side of the two states. The venue is beside the Ingoli gate main road and the meeting is being organized in Mela Maidan belonging to Nanded Sachkhand Gurudwara. Speaking to Deccan Chronicle, minister Allola Indrakaran Reddy said that it was not a public meeting per se but an event in which sarpanches, former MLAs, mayors, MPs and ZPTC members from Maharashtra will be joining the BRS. BRS Adilabad ZP chairman Rathod Janardhan, MLA Balka Suman, Telangana civil supplies chairman Ravinder Singh, and others are monitoring the arrangements. Sajjala Ramakrishna Reddy (File photo/DC) VIJAYAWADA: YSR Congress general secretary and government adviser (public affairs) Sajjala Ramakrishna Reddy has asked what would be wrong if MP Avinash Reddy, Naveen, OSD (CM) Krishnamohan Reddy called YS Jagan Mohan Reddy to communicate about Vivekananda Reddy's murder. Addressing a press meet here on Friday, he said that the Opposition parties and their friendly media were hell bent on making an issue when MP Avinash Reddy was called for a CBI questioning and when Naveen, who worked in CM Jagan's house, and OSD Krishna Mohan Reddy, were called by the CBI on Friday. Reddy said everyone knows that MP Avinash Reddy got information about Vivekananda Reddy's murder from Vivekananda Reddy's brother-in-law Sivaprakash Reddy and after that Avinash Reddy went to the spot. He said Avinash Reddy himself informed the police about the incident and everyone knew this. He recalled that the call record of who spoke to whom that day was in the hands of the police even when Telugu Desam was in power. The adviser said the names of Naveen and OSD Krishnamohan came up after checking the call record. This had nothing to do with CM Jagan, he said. He said Avinash Reddy called to inform about Vivekananda's murder. None of this was unnatural and there was nothing sensational about these. These were not new and even the phones have not been changed, he said. Refuting the "false propaganda" of TD leaders, the adviser said that the Chandrababu government was in power at the time of the murder. He questioned why TD leaders were acting as if something sensational had happened in the last four days and as if there was a conspiracy angle. He recalled that after the death of Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy, his brother Vivekananda Reddy was the head of the family and he was YSRs own brother. YSRC MP Avinash Reddy was the cousin of CM Jagan and everyone was close in terms of party and family, he said. He added that Avinash Reddy gave the information about the murder of Vivekananda to his elder brother and party president Jagan but TD leaders and their friendly media were "unnecessarily making an issue out of nothing." BJP legislator Etala Rajendar. (Photo: Wikipedia) HYDERABAD: BJP legislator Etala Rajendar accused the state of exaggerating claims and spreading lies regarding its progress in Governor Tamilisai Soundarajan's speech to the Legislature on Friday. When it boasts of improved power sustainability in the state, why has it failed to cater to the needs of the agriculture sector and why are aggrieved famers staging protests against the power cuts, he wondered, while speaking to reporters. Many farmers did not get any financial aid under Rythu Bandhu scheme because of which several of them were forced to sell their agricultural lands, he said. Farmers are also facing difficulties caused by errors in Dharani portal. Unfortunately none of these have been mentioned in the Governor's speech, Rajendar said. Except in Siddipet and Gajwel, 2BHK houses have not been constructed in the state, he said. Legislator M. Raghunandan Rao was also present. BJP appointed Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan its in-charge for the upcoming Karnataka assembly polls. (PTI file image) New Delhi: Ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's crucial visit to poll-bound Karnataka on Monday, the battle lines were redrawn on Saturday, with the BJP appointing Union HRD minister Dharmendra Pradhan as the state election in-charge and Tamil Nadu BJP unit president K. Annamalai as the co-in-charge. This will be the Prime Minister's seventh visit to the state. Mr Modi, along with Karnataka chief minister Basavraj Bommai, will be inaugurating a number of development and job-oriented projects. In this high-stakes poll-bound state, the Prime Minister will launch E20, a blend of 20 per cent ethanol with petrol. He will inaugurate the India Energy Week (IEW) 2023 aimed at showcasing the country's "rising prowess as an energy transition powerhouse" and dedicate Hindustan Aeronautics Limited's (HAL) greenfield helicopter production facility to the nation. As the BJP high command has put all its resources into winning the Karnataka Assembly polls, the chief minister targeted the Congress, saying that "fear of defeat is now haunting the Congress" in the state. While the BJP seemed to be confident that the party led by Mr Bommai "will break the jinx and return to power", senior party leader B.S. Yediyurappa indicated that the party "stands united" and urged the workers to spread the programmes of the state and the Central governments door-to-door. Claiming that the Assembly polls are likely to be held before April 10, the veteran leader said that "under the leadership of Mr Modi and Union home minister Amit Shah, there is no doubt that the BJP will win all the upcoming elections, including that in Karnataka." In addition to other electorates, Mr Bommai has also focused on gaining the support of women, youths and SC&STs. It may be recalled that both Mr Bommai and Mr Yediyurappa have joined forces to make the party return to power. The state government has also focused on rural Karnataka and indicated that special priority will be given to the farmers in the forthcoming state budget. Meanwhile, the party appeared to be "upbeat" following the appointment of Mr Pradhan as the Karnataka poll in-charge. The BJP leaders in the state talked about Mr Pradhan's "skilful handling" of the Uttar Pradesh Assembly elections, which the party won by decimating the Opposition. As for the Prime Minister, who will be launching multiple projects, he will also participate in the Green Mobility Rally. The PM will flag off efforts to create public awareness for green fuels. Mr Modi will also lay the foundation stones for the Tumakuru industrial township and two Jal Jeevan Mission projects in Tumakuru. An official statement also stated that the Prime Minister will also launch eco-friendly uniforms made by recycling around 28 used PET (recyclable plastic) bottles under the "Unbottled" initiative of Indian Oil. He will also unveil the twin-cooktop model of the PSU's indoor solar cooking system, a "revolutionary" cooking solution that works on both solar and auxiliary energy. The IEW will be held in Bengaluru from February 68. This will attempt to bring together leaders from the traditional and non-traditional energy industries, governments, and academia to discuss the challenges and opportunities that a responsible energy transition presents. Over 30 ministers, 30,000 delegates and 1,000 exhibitors are expected to participate from across the world. PCC chief A. Revanth Reddy and AICC in-charge Manickrao Thakre address the media. (S. Surender Reddy/DC) Hyderabad: PCC chief A. Revanth Reddy will be covering seven Assembly segments in Mahbubabad Parliamentary constituency in the first phase of Haath se haath jodo padayatra which he is starting from Medaram on Monday. Meanwhile, the meeting, chaired by AICC in-charge Manickrao Thakre, and attended by Revanth Reddy, MP N. Uttam Kumar Reddy, the yatras monitoring committee convener A. Maheswar Reddy and others, witnessed heated deliberations and many were apprehensive that Revanth Reddy would mess up the Haath se Haath Jodo with his style of padayatra. However, Thakre said that the Bharat Jodo yatras message reaches every household. Later briefing the media, he said that the first phase of the padayatra will continue till February 23 because of a three-day break for the AICCs plenary. "A control room will be set up for proper coordination of the campaign," he said. Revanth Reddy drew parallels to the situation which existed prior to former chief minister Y.S. Rajasekhar Reddys historic padayatra. "Telangana is facing a similar crisis because of mis-governance. YSRs yatra which started from Chevella not only ended the TD rule but also helped Congress to regain power," he explained. The PCC chief felt that the clear understanding between the BJP and the TRS was now wide open after the Governors address. Dr Tamilasai Soundararajan with her address has emerged as their brand ambassador. "Governor tried to protect KCR completely and hid the failures and brand ambassador," he said. Over minister K.T. Rama Raos remarks against Rahul Gandhi, Revanth Reddy felt that he does not have the stature to speak against a man who inspired 140 crore Indians by walking the length and breadth of the nation. YSR Congress MPs said that they would introduce a private member's bill in Parliament for the implementation the Special Category Status. (PTI) VIJAYAWADA: YSR Congress MPs Talari Rangaiah, Pilli Subash Chandra Bose and N. Reddappa said on Friday that they would introduce a private member's bill in Parliament for the implementation of the guarantees given in the AP Reorganisation Act, including the Special Category Status. The MPs said SCS was not a closed chapter, but a guarantee given by the Parliament and that they will stage a protest in the Parliament. "This is APs constitutional right," they averred. They said, "We will also introduce a Private Member's Bill on the issues proposed in the AP Reorganisation Act which have not been implemented. But even though there was a discussion on it today, it could not be done due to the adjournment of the House. We are working hard to gather the support of the other parties."' The YSRC MPs said that Anantapur Central University was not given enough funds. AP has a population equal to Rajasthan and Gujarat but as compared to the permissions given to the medical colleges there, no permissions were received for AP. Hence, we are demanding sanction of medical colleges to AP like Gujarat and Rajasthan." Actor James Martin, who stars in An Irish Goodbye, has revealed the Hollywood stars he wants to meet when he attends the Oscars next month. The film, which is set in Northern Ireland and follows two estranged brothers who come together after their mothers death to fulfil her bucket list, has been nominated in the best short film category at the 95th Academy Awards. Martin, 30, whose birthday coincides with the awards ceremony in March, said he hopes to meet fellow Northern Irish actor Liam Neeson and other big names like Tom Cruise, Robert De Niro and Jennifer Aniston. The actor, who has Downs syndrome, told BBC Breakfast on Thursday: Well its not every day that you go to America, and an Oscar could be a nice birthday gift, because its actually on the 12th March, my birthday, so the timing is fantastic. He added: I would love to meet Tom Cruise, of course I would, Top Gun is a fantastic movie. I would love to meet Liam Neeson because weve got something in common. I would love to meet Robert De Niro because weve got something in common as well. The black comedy, set on a rural farm, which was filmed on location in Derry, Templepatrick and Saintfield, is directed and written by Tom Berkeley and Ross White. Berkeley said: Were just going to probably lose our heads. White also said it was fab and enough for us to qualify for the Oscar longlist, before they were nominated for their short film. Asked how they knew they had created something special, Berkeley mentioned the relationship between Game Of Thrones and The Northman star Seamus OHara, who plays Turlough, and Martin, who plays Lorcan. YEOOOOOOOOOO Were going to the Oscars!!! An actual dream come true@AnIrishGoodbye_ https://t.co/1rbRkFcrwu Ross White (@RossJWhite) January 24, 2023 Berkeley added: (When we heard) about the two of them facetiming each other in the evenings to originally run their lines, and then they just ended up doing it because they just became very fast friends, so I think we realised they had something special together. In the film, when the brothers are reunited Turlough must make new care arrangements for Lorcan, and plans to send him to live with his aunt on the other side of Ireland. Lorcan tells Turlough he will only leave the farm when they complete the 100 items on the list of things their mother, played by Game Of Thrones actress Michelle Fairley, wanted to do before she died. Martin, who has previously starred in BBC film Ups And Downs and works in hospitality at Italian restaurant Scalini in Belfast and Starbucks, called his friendship with OHara a special bond and it was important he made people laugh when they saw it. He added: Because I made An Irish Goodbye in lockdown, you just want to make people laugh and because you dont want to watch the same thing all over again on TV. So we need to watch something new and I think thats nice. An Irish Goodbye has also been nominated for the British short film award at the 76th Baftas, which will take place on February 19. The film has already received prizes at the British Short Film Awards, the Indy Shorts International Film Festival and the Irish Film Festa . Efforts are being made to erect a plaque to the late philanthropist John Gwyn who is buried in Muff. Born in the 1750s in Drumskellan near Muff, he made his fortune as a linen trader. On his death in 1829, he bequeathed 40,000 for the establishment of a school for boys of the poor or lowest class of society resident in and belonging to the city of Londonderry. His preference was that the school would be predominantly for boys who had lost their fathers, an aim motivated by the loss of his own father at a young age. Gwyn's Charitable Institution was opened in temporary rented premises In 1832; and in 1840 the school, then known as Gwyn's Institute, moved to a purpose-built building on a ten-acre site which later became Brooke Park. Pupils received their education and board free and many received training for a trade. Gwyn's Institute closed after 50 years and was later used as a museum and a library. The two-story building was fire-bombed during the 1970s and lay derelict until it was demolished in the 1990s. A cafe in the refurbished park, built on the site of the school, bears his name. Gwyn was buried in the graveyard of the Church of Ireland in Muff beside his parents. His tombstone states: Ever kind and benevolent, the gifts of his charity were numerous, but dispensed without ostentation. A local group, Muff Village District History and Heritage, is exploring the erection of a plaque in his memory, as well as an information board, and is seeking funding for the project Local councillor Terry Crossan, who has raised the issue of funding for the project with Donegal County Council, said he is hopeful the funding can be found. The plans for the plaque are the latest in efforts by the group to keep the memory of John Gwyn and his philanthropy alive. In November, a talk on Gwyns life, which was supported by Inishowen Development Partnership, was given in the village by author and broadcaster Ken McCormack. Changemakers Donegal, a group that works to raise awareness of local and global citizenship issues, has funded two workshops to be held later this year on the social issues of Gwyns time and social issues of today. Cathal Monaghan of Muff Village District History and Heritage, who also contributed to Novembers talk, said the work to promote Gwyns legacy locally has come about after the realisation that there was a lack of awareness of Gwyns connections with the area. The group is also planning a day of events to remember Gwyn. There is no recognition of him at all in the village, he said. The John Gwyn story somehow got lost in the locality he lived in. He is buried in the local Church of Ireland Graveyard, and when we approached the Church of Ireland they were most supportive in assisting us in the project, as are Muff Community Forum who have been supportive of the project. The group is inviting anyone with local knowledge of families who benefited from the work of Gwyns Institute to make contact and to get involved by sharing information on its Facebook page. Senior students at Oakgrove Integrated College were treated to a visit by Labours NI spokesperson Tonia Antoniazzi who was on a fact-finding mission about integrated education in practice. Ms Antoniazzi heard from John Harkin, Acting Principal about the schools 30 year history and hopes for the future. Students and staff engaged in questions and answers with Ms Antoniazza who encouraged them to believe that there was nothing they could not achieve. Topics under discussion included: the Legacy Bill, the Irish Language Act, rugby internationals and the importance of democratic participation. The visit was hosted by the IEF (Integrated Education Fund) and attended by Director, Ken Cathcart. He spoke about his family experiences of integrated education, including Oakgrove Integrated College. After the school visit, Ms Antoniazzi toured historic areas of the city including the Fountain and The Bogside. Ms Antoniassi is MP for Gower and has spoken on NI matters since December 2021. She was previously a teacher of languages in Wales and north-west England. Ms Antoniazzi paused at the schools entrance to light the candle in memory of all lost lives in the conflict in Northern Ireland. The Welsh MP remembered the life of Private Robert Davies, 19, son of her constituents; he was killed in an IRA gun attack in Lichfield Station in 1990. The Oakgrove candle burns each day at in memory of all whose lives ended or were damaged because of violence in NI. Oakgrove Integrated College continues a year of events and conversations to celebrate the schools 30th anniversary. Popular Derry man, Garvan Hen Henderson, passed away suddenly in September during a holiday to Portugal with his friends. He had been there to celebrate his 50th birthday but sadly died the day before reaching that milestone. Garvans lifelong friend, Tony OConnor, owner of the Bentley Bar in the city, has co-organised a fundraiser in memory of Garvan, with all money raised going to the Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust (KBRT) and the North West Cancer Centre at Altnagelvin. The Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust is a charity which aims to alleviate the financial hardship of bereaved families repatriating the remains of their loved ones who have died abroad in sudden or tragic circumstances, back to Ireland. The event is taking place on Saturday, February 18, in Link 48 (formerly Pitchers), on Alder Road in Derry. Tickets can be purchased at the Bentley Bar, Link 48 or through Skiddle. Explaining why those two particular charities had been chosen, Tony said: Hen (Garvan) had only passed away a couple of hours when someone from the Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust rang me to see if we needed any help getting his body back to Derry and saying they could help. However, Hen had travel insurance, which covered his repatriation, so while we didnt need them, situations like this happen quite regularly, so we decided to do a fundraiser in memory of Hen, to raise funds for the Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust and the North West Cancer Unit, because Hens daddy, Noel, died with cancer and had received treatment there. The fundraiser actually falls on Noels anniversary, said Tony. On the night of the Hen Fundraiser live music by a band called D and G who play Oasis and Indie music, which Hen loved. We are also going to have a couple of old skool dance DJs playing as well, said Tony, because Hen loved that type of music too. The night is going to be compered by Joe Kelly. Tony and Garvan grew up together in the Pennyburn area of Derry. Tony recalled: Hen was a postman and then he was a driver for a delivery company. He went to New York in 2000 as a chippys mate, and I went out every single summer for seven years to visit him. His daddy, Noel, died in February 2004 and he just wasnt the same after that. It hit him hard and he came back to Derry to live in 2007. We were opening the Bentley at the time, so we gave him a job. He was there all during the Bentley renovations. He never missed one day of work. I called him Mr Bentley. He was a massive friend. He was like family. He turned 50 on September 7 and I arranged it from earlier that year for all the close mates to go out to Portugal to celebrate. I knew Hen would not do it himself. We had been out in Portugal for his 40th birthday, which had also been our friends stag do. Nine of us went out on the Thursday and we had the best days craic ever, a lads holiday, said Tony, who is planning to rename the Linen Bar where Garvan worked in his honour. Hen was a really, really great character, said Tony. Garvan had a heart of gold and would have given you his last penny. Those were the poignant words of Garvans sister, Karen Henderson, speaking to Derry News ahead of Clearly emotional, Karen thanked Garvans friends for being a tower of strength and support to her mother, Ann, brother, John, and herself since Garvans death. Karen added: Garvan wanted for nothing. He had everything because he had a family that loved him and he had friends that were his second family. His friends have done him proud since his untimely death. Garvan was a hard worker. He put his life and soul into the Bentley Bar and his Bentley family, young and old, loved him. He worked in the Linen Bar and all of the men that would go in there on a Friday night loved the craic with him. Garvan and I were close, especially during the pandemic. I was making sure he was okay because he was so used to working and he didnt know what to do with himself but he got there in the end. He loved life and he loved his family and friends. A few years ago, Garvan moved to New York to work. However, he came back to Derry after our father, Noel, died. That was a big blow to him. Our father and our grandmother, Kathleen, sadly died within six months of each other. They were key people in Garvans life. That was a turning point for him. He came home and worked in the Bentley. Tony OConnor was so good to him. He just gave Garvan a job as soon as he came back from New York and Garvan worked there until his death, said Karen. Karen said Tony and the Bentley staff were always thinking about what good they could do for people. She added: The fundraiser is an example of their kindness. It is also to show appreciation for the work of the Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust. We didnt have to rely on them to get Garvan home because he had holiday insurance, thank God but at the same time we know they would have got him home. It is really a case of not wanting to see any other family going through what we went through. It was bad enough knowing we were going to get Garvan home but the stress and the process of getting him home was horrific. The fundraiser is also for the North West Cancer Centre, which would have been very close to Garvans heart because my father died of cancer. The event will be attended by a lot of family members and, I would say, dozens and dozens of friends, who will come out again for another excuse to toast Garvan. It is lovely to see and completely overwhelming. As a family we cant thank Tony enough, as well as his family, his mother and father, Geraldine and Micky, his wife Sheila, even down to his children. He has put a lot of time and effort into the fundraiser, probably to the detriment of his own family, said Karen. I dont even have the words to say thanks to the Bentley Bar, said Karen, because every time you go up, there are photographs of Garvan or theres another story or theres a video on Facebook. It is non stop. It is overwhelming and it is lovely and it brings tears to your eyes but they are tears of comfort. Garvan is sorely missed. The trauma of what happened in Portugal is unreal, especially for his friends out celebrating his Birthday and having to go through the experience of finding Garvan dead and then having to phone me. They are also suffering the loss of their friend. Tickets for the Garvan Hen Henderson fundraiser can be purchased at the Bentley Bar or Link 48 or through Skiddle. If you were looking for the Charlestown Democratic Town Committee website and ended up here, try this Got news tips, gossip, suggestions, complaints?E-mail us: progressivecharlestown@gmail.com We strive to avoid errors in our articles. Our correction policy can be found here Please allow ads as they help fund our trusted local news content. Kindly add us to your ad blocker whitelist. If you want further access to Ireland's best local journalism, consider contributing and/or subscribing to our free daily Newsletter . Support our mission and join our community now. A Place for All Conservatives to Speak Their Mind. Tell us about yourself? Im a Kerry native but Ive lived in Cork since 2014, so I consider myself an honorary Corkonian by now. I moved here to study English in UCC. Since graduating, Ive worked in marketing and communications for Cork-based festivals and arts organisations. Im currently the Marketing and Communications Officer for Irish Association of Youth Orchestras who are based here in Cork city. It has been exciting getting to work on our upcoming Festival of Youth Orchestras which takes place on February 11 in the National Concert Hall in Dublin. It will be a day-long celebration of Irelands talented young musicians and the orchestra community. Ideal way to spend Friday nights? Definitely at home relaxing, either reading or watching a movie. Lie in or up with the lark which is it for you? I wish it was up with the lark but its certainly more lie in. Although with the Festival of Youth Orchestras approaching, there will be more early starts. Especially on the big day on February 11! Does work creep into your weekend at all? Usually not! I do occasionally attend work-related events like concerts outside of regular working hours. However, this month I will be working at the 27th Festival of Youth Orchestras for the weekend. If money was no object where would you head to on a weekend City break and who would you bring? Paris, which is perhaps a cliche! I would bring my boyfriend and we would visit all the art galleries like the Musee de lOrangerie and the Petit Palais. Closer to home, is there some place you like to head to recharge the batteries? Definitely West Cork. Have been on a bit of a mission since the pandemic began to explore as much local history and heritage as possible. Lately Ive been enjoying walks in and around Innishannon. The Irish Association of Youth Orchestras (IAYO) returns to the National Concert Hall on Saturday, February 11, for their Annual Festival of Youth Orchestras. Picture: Marc O'Sullivan Do you catch up with friends / family at the weekend? I try to! I often attend concerts or exhibitions with friends or my older siblings at weekends. Recently, I went to see Lisa ONeill playing at the National Concert Hall in Dublin with my brother. I also have family abroad, so sometimes we will video call at weekend. Do you get to indulge any hobbies? Even as a spectator? Yes! I love all things film, music and art. Working for IAYO has made me appreciate Corks music scene a lot more, especially all the hard work of young musicians, composers and conductors. Cork is fortunate to have a very vibrant cultural scene, lately Ive attended multiple new exhibitions including ones at Crane Visual and The Lord Mayors Pavilion, movies at Triskel, and Im looking forward to the Ortus Chamber Music Festival this month. Entertain or be entertained? If it is the latter, do you have a signature dish? I love to entertain! My favourite recipe is a roasted red pepper pasta from the Minimalist Baker blog, it is vegetarian and a very easy but very tasty recipe. We have so many places to eat out in Cork where are your spots for coffee / lunch / special meal? Huge fan of Izz Cafe for delicious Palestinian food. Love Myo as a place to read and drink coffee, theres always a lovely atmosphere and often live music or poetry. Sunday night comes around too fast, how do you normally spend it? Doing a little reset for the week ahead. I like having a slow Sunday, where I read, meal plan for the week ahead and maybe do some yoga. What time does your alarm clock go off Monday morning? 8am, luckily I live within a few minutes walk to my workplace, so I dont have to be up too early! Anything else you are up to right now? Busy preparing for IAYOs 27th Festival of Youth Orchestras which takes place on Saturday, February 11. Over 400 young musicians, including three Cork orchestras (Junior Cork Youth Orchestra, Musica Fusion Community Orchestra and Cork ETB Youth Orchestra) will be performing. Its amazing to see the hard work of all these young musicians come to fruition. Im also excited for the premiere of the piece Through the Ages which was composed by Sophie Butler, an up and coming Cork composer and will be performed by Musica Fusion Community Orchestra from Charleville. Sophie and her mother Susie will also be conducting on the day! As well as our Festival, I am also busy working on our upcoming workshops and courses for young people which take place during the summer. Gardai in Cork have attended the scene of a road traffic incident on the N71 near the Chetwynd Viaduct in Cork city this morning. The scene was attended by Gardai and a number of fire service vehicles at approximately 10am. Cork City Fire Brigade confirmed it had a crew responding to a car fire in the area. There are no reports of any injuries at this time and traffic in the area is flowing as normal. CORKS Montenotte Hotel has announced its latest artist in residence, contemporary Irish painter, Paul Christopher Flynn. As part of its long-standing commitment to supporting the arts, The Montenotte Hotels artist in residence programme aims to showcase Irish artists and promote their work through a six-month exhibition within the hotels lobby. Now in its sixth year, the scheme is in partnership with The Gallery Kinsale, a local art gallery that represents the best in up-and-coming local and national talent. Having graduated from Dublins National College of Art and Design in the early 1980s Paul Christopher Flynn then walked away from art completely. He moved to the United States where he worked as a headhunter and did not pick up a paintbrush or a pencil for two decades. Throughout this time, however, he was always thinking about art and painting. When he returned to Ireland in 2003, he began painting immediately with 20 years worth of ideas jostling for space in his mind. To present his works in any kind of linear process was impossible and so he made the conscious decision to paint different themes. Themes, the title given of this retrospective exhibition on show at The Montenotte Hotel, is a selection of his varied styles and images. At their essence, all of Flynns paintings have the aim to be centres of calm in a world that is often just too loud and too busy. I intend my paintings to invoke, rather than explain, their subjects, Paul Christopher Flynn commented, following the announcement of the exhibition. General manager of The Montenotte Hotel, Frits Potgieter, said he is confident guests will love the exhibition. We are thrilled to welcome Paul Christopher Flynn as our next artist in residence and have no doubt that our guests will enjoy his work, he said. As a hotel with a passion for design and the arts, we are very proud to support Irish artists like Christopher here at The Montenotte and continue to appreciate our partnership with The Gallery Kinsale. Will the international community impose strict conditions before it takes ad-hoc measures to save Sri Lanka? Whilst enveloped in deep socio-economic crises caused by the successive inept and divisive political leadership in power, since the island country gained its independence from the British colonial rule, in February 1948, the preparations are afoot to celebrate the diamond jubilee of the existence of the country, as a free nation. At the time Sri Lanka, then known as Ceylon, was granted independence with the dominion status, it was a prosperous country with a comparatively strong economy. The country was regarded as one destined to be a model amongst the nations gaining their freedom from the colonial masters, after the second world war. The trend was to decolonize the nations from the yoke of centuries of colonial rule of the European powers, some benign and some not so benign. Sri Lankan National Flag [ Photo: Special Arrangement] The grant of independence to Sri Lanka was hurried and ill-thought through. The governance of the independent Ceylon as envisaged was nothing but a change from the colonial rule to the neo-colonial rule of the Sinhala nation with a hardened Sinhala Buddhist chauvinism. The Soulbury constitution which was the framework for the governance of Ceylon was most inappropriate as it failed to recognize the existence of the two distinct nations the Sinhala nation and Tamil nation. It created a situation where the nations were reduced to the majority and minority communities. The Tamil nation was left at the mercy of the Sinhala nation who were handed over the gift of a perpetual supremacy simply on the basis of numbers. Even basic safeguards to protect the interest of the Tamil nation were not written into the constitution except for a confused clause preventing the majority community enjoying privileges which were not extended to the minority communities. The Soulbury constitution which was largely a replica of the unwritten Westminster styled constitution totally distorted the socio-political realities of Ceylon. Soon after the independence the Sinhala Buddhist government of the day took steps to ensure that a well pronounced section of the Tamil nation, who were the backbone of the then economy of Ceylon lost their citizenship. This was aimed to reduce the representation of the Tamil nation in the governance of the newly independent nation. This was the first step in their long journey to deprive the Tamil nation of their rightful place in the economy education, employment and the political life of the country. The introduction of the constitutions in 1972 and 1978 further marginalized the Tamil nation from the body politic of the Sinhala led unitary state. These took away even the basic safeguards provided by the Soulbury constitution. The current socio political crises of the nation is a result of these deeply sectarian approach of the Sinhala Buddhist led governments. The Tamil nation reacted to this initially by entering into political dialogue. On realizing that the democratic concepts hardly had an impact on the thought process of the Sinhala nation, by then, well intoxicated with the political power gained over the decades, took to arms as the last resort to prevent the decimation of the Tamil nation. The sixth amendment to the 1978 constitution took away even the breathing space for the Tamil nation to express its political will. The main justification for the armed struggle is the sixth amendment. If the parliament ceases to be forum where else the long oppressed Tamil nation can voice its political expression? The international community is well aware of the brutal reaction of the Sinhala nation to the legitimate expression of the political will of the people of the Tamil nation for us to repeat those here. Suffice is it to say that every armed struggle is not an act of terrorism. The post war oppression continues unabated. The state aided colonization continues to distort the demography of the traditional Tamil homeland and the heavy presence of the armed forces takes away even the semblance of the life without fear. The planned lobsided economic development over the decades has left the peoples of the Tamil nation the poor cousins of the Sinhala nation. The war reparation, restoration of the civil society, and the accountability from the war crimes are foreign concepts to the Sri Lankan government. Even the attempt to implement the watered-down Indo Sri Lanka accord in the form of the 13th Amendment is now being vociferously objected to by the Buddhist clergy. Sadly, this is not a new phenomenon. In nutshell, the democracy is practiced in Sri Lanka only in the breach and any hope of a internally evolved solution to the political crises in the island of Sri Lanka is fast disappearing, if not its has already disappeared. The international community must not allow itself to be misled by the Sinhala nation any longer. The history of the island of Sri Lanka is too dire to be ignored by the civilized nations of the world. The international community must realise that continuing to support Sri Lanka in its current form will not bring prosperity to the country. For the Sinhala nation the current crisis is socio economic but for the Tamil nation, it is an existential crisis. Unwarranted Defence Expenditure A Main cause to Sri Lankas Current Crisis Among the several causes of Sri Lankas failure to secure its economic stability, the defence expenditure remains a major factor. The cycles of violence culminated in anti-Tamil pogrom of July 1983 and then the genocidal war of three decades, the effect of which will not be easily erased from Tamil peoples memory for several generation to come. Continued and the concerted military occupation of traditional Tamil homeland in the North & East make the return to normalcy impossible. While the international community gallops to save Sri Lanka from its current crisis, it must take note of the following and lay stern conditions. The historical data produced by reputable organizations prove that Sri Lankas defence spending has been in the increase. The World bank reports provide that Sri Lanka has spent USD$ 34.3 billion on its defence up to 2020. This implies that Sri Lanka had spent USD$ 1.58 billion on defence in 2020 alone. The defence budget covering the post war period (US$ 17.28 Billion) is higher than that of civil war period (US$14.92 Billion). It is also noteworthy to consider Indias former National Security Adviser Shivshankar Menons statement that Sri Lankas internal war which ended in May 2009 had cost the country around US$ 200 billion. This US$ 200 billion is enormous and appeared to have gone unaccounted from the Sri Lankas records. From the foregoing details, it is unequivocally evident that Sri Lanka has been spending significant amount of its budget in increasing the military presence in the island even after the end of the war in 2009. The military size increase by 94,000; from 223,000 to 317,000; after the war ended in 2009 signifies the increased deployment of military personnel in Tamil homeland of North and East of the island. We consider that the economic crisis of USD$ 50.7 billion foreign debts could have been mitigated to a large extent if only Sri Lanka had not wasted its resources on defence expenditure. It should also be noted that Sri Lanka has more military personnel than the United Kingdom. Does Sri Lanka need that numbers of military personnel, while it has no external or internal threats when compared to the UK, which obviously has more security concerns. In the interim, we would urge the international community to take preliminary actions to compel Sri Lanka to end the heavy militarization of North and East of the island and also to demobilize the military as a step towards mitigating the surging national expenditure. Will the international community impose strict conditions before it takes ad-hoc measures to save Sri Lanka? Resettlement of Tamil People If the country were to prosper, the Tamil people ought to be allowed to live in their own land with their legitimate political rights acknowledged. The state aided colonization, depriving equitable socio economic development, the war and the embargos have forced Tamil people to flee to other destinations. An estimate of over 200,000 such Tamil people, who should be living in their own homes in the North and East, are internally displaced. Additionally, the civil war has caused over a million of Tamil people to seek shelter in foreign countries and about 100,000 who fled to India, are still living as stateless people. It is imperative that all these people have the freedom of returning to their own homes to live in peace and dignity. The Way Forward Having mentioned the foregoing facts and figures, the British Tamils Forum urges the following as the way forward to not only make Sri Lanka a conflict free region and a prosperous country. Demilitarise the North East and demobilise the security forces in the island. As the united voice of the elected Tamil representatives in the North East calling for a political solution based on the federal principles and the right to self-determination, we request an international arbitration process led by India, USA and a core group of countries to find a long term political settlement. The culture of impunity must cease, and the perpetrators of atrocity crimes must be brought to justice under the international criminal prosecution mechanism. Apply all available leverages including further sanctions, travel ban, asset freeze, etc. on civilian and military perpetrators. Statement issued by the Global Tamil Forum The war in Ukraine created increased demand for NATO standard weapons that could be delivered quickly. South Korea, already a growing exporter of weapons, was the major beneficiary of this demand. NATO nations seeking to replace weapons sent to Ukraine, or expand their own arsenals, found South Korea was the only major arms exporter able to meet this demand. Orders for South Korea weapons more than doubled in 2022 and this will push South Korea from one of the top ten arms exporters to one of the top five. In the 1990s Chinese support for an aggressive and unpredictable North Korea prompted South Korea to become a major developer, manufacturer and eventually exporter of modern weapons. The first customer was the South Korean armed forces and demand from this customer still plays a large role in what South Korean arms industries produce. In the 1990s South Korea arms industries were able to develop and deliver a new generation of modern weapons and by the end of the decade were supplying 70 percent of what the military needed. Since the 1990s South Korea has moved on to produce military aircraft (helicopters and jet fighters) as well as warships (frigates, destroyers, submarines and all manner of smaller craft and support vessels.) South Korea also produced military electronics systems as well as a full range of infantry weapons and equipment. The military products are made possible by South Koreas growing consumer and industrial products industries. Since the 1990s South Korea has become a major producer of smartphones, commercial vehicles and nuclear power plants. South Korea is a major manufacturer of nuclear power plant equipment and currently obtains a third of its electricity from 25 nuclear power plants. South Korea is a major exporter of nuclear power plant technology and this made it possible to build nuclear weapons, something that will happen if North Korea keeps making threats backed by their nuclear weapons and ballistic missiles. South Korea has already developed and produced ballistic missiles, with conventional warheads, to destroy similar North Korea's missiles and artillery long aimed at South Korean targets. South Korea also became a major producer of commercial shipping and currently is second only to China in that category. And, like China, South Korea used this shipbuilding dominance to quickly build a modern navy. It also developed and built ASW (Anti-Submarine Warfare) equipment to deal with the growing North Korea submarine threat from their small coastal subs. South Korean submarines currently being built are designed to operate throughout the Pacific and Indian Oceans. Demand for military equipment because of the Ukraine War has made it possible for South Korean firms to also offer their non-military exports, which are also high-quality and competitively priced. South Korea is also the 7th largest exporter in the world and 40 percent of its GDP comes from exports. South Korea has the 1oth largest economy in the world. This is remarkable for a country with only 50 million people. Per-capita income is also in the top ten and is twenty times larger than in North Korea. South Koreas annual defense budget has grown to nearly $50 billion a year, one of the three largest behind (China and Japan) in East Asia. One Western development that has eluded South Korea, due to hatred of Japan for its brutal 1905 1945 occupation of Korea, is a defense organization similar to NATO for defense against China. NATO worked for decades against Russia and when put to the test in Ukraine, it proved capable of defending even prospective members like Ukraine. There is an informal East Asian NATO formation consisting of South Korea, Japan, Taiwan, Singapore, Australia and a few other local nations. It may take a formal defense organization to deter China. The Tesla CEO could have been on the hook for billions of dollars in damages. Jury rules Elon Musk is not liable for shareholder losses after 'funding secured' tweets The Tesla CEO could have been on the hook for billions of dollars in damages. Elon Musk is off the hook for his 2018 tweets claiming he had funding secured to take Tesla private for $420 a share. A jury found that Musk was not liable for Tesla investors losses, following a weeks-long trial in San Francisco. The verdict is a major victory for Musk, who could have been liable for billions of dollars in damages. Musk had testified in federal court that just because he tweets something, it "does not mean people believe it or will act accordingly." He also argued that he could have used his shares of SpaceX to fund the deal. The shareholders who brought the class action suit had argued that Musks statements about funding were false, and that they lost vast amounts of money due to stock fluctuations in the aftermath of Musks tweets. But while the judge in the case concluded that the tweets were "objectively false and reckless," the jury didnt find that Musk had deliberately misled the public. While the verdict ends the years-long saga of the funding secured tweets, the posts werent entirely without consequences for Musk. He settled with the Securities and Exchange Commission in 2018, and stepped down from his role as Tesla board chair as a condition of the settlement. Musk has long decried the SEC settlement and has said he was forced to admit I lied to save Teslas life. Subscribe to the Engadget Deals Newsletter Great deals on consumer electronics delivered straight to your inbox, curated by Engadgets editorial team. See latest Subscribe Please enter a valid email address Please select a newsletter By subscribing, you are agreeing to Engadget's Terms and Privacy Policy. In a statement to Bloomberg following the verdict, Musk's lawyer, Alex Spiro, said "the jury got it right." Musk also weighed in naturally, via tweet saying he was "deeply appreciative." Thank goodness, the wisdom of the people has prevailed! I am deeply appreciative of the jurys unanimous finding of innocence in the Tesla 420 take-private case. Elon Musk (@elonmusk) February 3, 2023 Update 2/3 7:19 PM ET: Added Elon Musk's tweet about the verdict. NASA satellite will use radar to map Earth's crust in extreme detail A Q&A at 5PM Eastern could help answer your questions about the spacecraft. Scientists will soon have a spaceborne tool to study environmental changes at a very high resolution, and you won't have long to wait to learn more about it. NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory is holding a question and answer session today (February 3rd) at 5PM Eastern to discuss NISAR (NASA-ISRO SAR), an Earth-mapping satellite built in tandem with the Indian Space Research Organization. It's not launching from India until early 2024 and is planned to operate for three years, but it includes breakthrough tech that could help understand Earth and cope with natural disasters. NISAR is the first radar imaging satellite to use dual frequencies (the L and S microwave bands). This will let it systematically map the Earth's crust at an exceptional level of detail it can detect changes under 1cm (0.4in) across. That will let NISAR observe even subtle nuances of earthquakes, tsunamis and other disasters. It will also help monitor long-term processes, including the crust's evolution, ecosystem disruptions and ice sheet collapses. See NISAR in @NASAJPL's clean room today at 5pm ET (2200 UTC). Set to launch from India in 2024, it will measure the movement of Earths surfaces to provide info on trends that affect global challenges like food security. https://t.co/6Hi8AyIQ1D NASA (@NASA) February 3, 2023 Access to data will also play an important role. NISAR offers worldwide coverage every 12 days, making time-based imagery more practical. The mission team hopes to make data readily available to the public in one to two days, but can deliver that data within hours in an emergency. Anyone willing to parse the information can make use of it. With an estimated $1.5 billion price, NISAR is expected to be the most expensive Earth imaging satellite to date. The investment may be worthwhile, though. The satellite's data could help governments react to and prepare for natural disasters, and improve humanity's understandings of climate change and threats to food security. Ruchi Gupta writes: As public discourse has increasingly shifted online, governments around the world are grappling with how best to regulate the online sphere. Some of the initiatives are well-intentioned, aimed at establishing accountability for digital platforms, which are encouraging information disorder to boost their own engagement and thus profits. However, the series of moves made by the Bharatiya Janata Party-led Government of India are lacking in good faith that is necessary for public-interest regulation. Instead, it betrays an anxiety to control the digital public sphere. The latest move is about MEITYs (Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology) proposed amendment to the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021 which states that online intermediaries must take down any information identified as false or misleading by the government agency, press information bureau (PIB) or other agency authorised by the central government. It took the deaths of at least 10 people in Urumqi, the capital of Xinjiang Province, on 24 November 2022 for widespread protests against the three-year-old zero-Covid policy to erupt in China. This was the first time since the Tiananmen Square rallies in 198889 that a large number of people from across the country had in unison expressed their dissatisfaction and disagreement with the Communist Party of China (CPC), its policies, and its leadership. The fact that protesters from Shanghai took the lead in expressing concerns over the tragedy in Urumqi is both remarkable and understandable. Shanghai residents, like those in Urumqi, also experienced months of lockdowns, food and health-service shortages, and concerns about fire safety. Despite the significant differences in their economic, political, and cultural positions within China, Shanghai and Urumqi became entwined in their resentment over a policy that had served its purpose during the first two years of the pandemic, but had become obsolete when dealing with the extremely contagious Omicron variant of the COVID-19. Although the Shanghai lockdown in April and May 2022 attracted extensive media coverage because of the mega citys 25 million residents and the impact it has had on the global economy, the almost four-month-long lockdown across Xinjiang from August to November rarely made news until the tragic events in Urumqi. Similarly, while the coverage of internment camps for the Uighurs in Xinjiang made the rounds in the foreign media, it had little impact on the people in China. The deaths caused by fire in a locked-down building in Urumqi brought the city into the limelight and wove the plights of its residents in with those of cities elsewhere in China (Kang 2022). The shared grief, fear, and common detestation over the zero-Covid policy even erased, if only temporarily, the ethno-economic tensions between the Han majority and the Uighur minority in the country. Anita Cameron rushed to her mothers bedside in Washington, coming from Colorado to be with her. The doctor said her mothers body was shutting down, after battling chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Maybe she had a few days left. Cameron said the doctor offered medication that would hasten her mothers death. Instead, Cameron took her mother back to Colorado. Her mother died 12 years later. On one hand, the story is illustrative of the lesser care that people of color, including Camerons family who is Black and Latino, get. But Cameron, the minority outreach director for Not Dead Yet, said it also represents the danger of physician-assisted suicide. Cameron told her story as part of a press conference held by a group, Montanans Against Assisted Suicide, which is campaigning in support of Senate Bill 210. The bill would remove a portion of Montana law that would give medical practitioners a defense in criminal cases of homicide. Assisting anyone with suicide in the state of Montana is illegal, by code. But the Montana Supreme Court ruling in Baxter vs. State, established a defense to homicide in cases of physician-assisted suicide, while also leaving the door open for the legislature to close the loophole. If Montana successfully passes SB210, it would become the first state to reverse course on physician-assisted suicide. And, with a Republican supermajority in the legislature, plus the full-throated support of the Gianforte administration, which sent Lt. Gov. Kristen Juras to testify in support, SB210 has a good chance of passing. Montanans Against Assisted Suicide presented a line-up of speakers residents, advocates and doctors who support the legislation, sponsored by Sen. Carl Glimm, R-Kila. Bradley Williams, who testified at the legislature and is part of the group, said the paralyzing and high doses of medications used in lethal injections as well as physician-assisted suicide, which has medications taken orally by patients, is similar. He bristled at the claim that physician-assisted death was peaceful because the muscles are stopped, preventing the patient from speaking. That doesnt mean theyre free from suffering, Williams said. The group said the legislation is a danger to disabled, elderly and vulnerable populations, and with Canadas continued relaxed standards, they said the issue of physician-assisted suicide is a slippery slope. Marsha Katz, a Montana resident, said the conversation on the topic needs to focus more on keeping patients comfortable and finding more support for end-of-life care. If we dont focus on life with dignity, theres no such thing as death with dignity, she said. She told about losing her husband, father and brother to cancer. My husband died right here in our bed, she said, after making sure he was comfortable and pain-free. But disreputable laws and greed can push people toward wanting to gain financially, she said. Dr. Carley Robertson, who practices in the Hi-Line area, said the problem, framed as a medical one, is really a moral question. The essence is that it is wrong to kill an innocent life. These patients have not been convicted, and therefore, they are innocent, Robertson said. The quickest way to destroy the medical practice is by having healers and executioners become the same thing. Dr. Craig Treptow, a family physician in Great Falls, said the real issue may be one of mental health. He said a recent article in the Journal of the American Medical Association, shows that 59% of patients who considered physician-assisted suicide may be clinically depressed. Should we be treating the depression instead of helping them kill themselves? he asked. All of the speakers agreed that lawmakers couldnt put in enough sideboards or protections to make the practice palatable. Consent is a red herring, Robertson said. There is no way to adequately control this action. And theres no way to control coercion. And theres no adequate way to put the state in charge. The post Montanans Against Assisted Suicide: New law would protect vulnerable, disabled and elderly appeared first on Daily Montanan. House Republicans advanced a six-bill package Wednesday that would put more than $1 billion of the states historic budget surplus into rebate checks and other spending, pushing the measures through debate and initial floor votes. In their current forms, the bills would authorize per-taxpayer rebates of up to $1,250 on 2021 state income taxes and up to $1,000 on 2022 and 2023 property taxes. They would also cut the state business equipment tax, cut capital gains taxes, pay down state debt and allocate $100 million to a highway construction fund. The six bills were passed out of the House Appropriations Committee last week. Barring a surprise reversal, the bills will pass final votes in the House Thursday before advancing to the Senate for further consideration. Speaker of the House Matt Regier, R-Kalispell, acknowledged during floor debate that different Republican lawmakers have different ideas about what theyd like to see done with the surplus, which totals an estimated $2.5 billion, but he urged his caucus to support the combined package. Our constituents who overpaid to operate state government are as diverse as this House, and I say we deliver for each and every one of those, Regier said. Democrats in the House minority opposed all of the bills except the highway construction fund, arguing Republicans were rushing large rebates through the Legislature instead of first working out how much the state can afford after addressing challenges such as the cost of childcare, nursing home closures and workforce housing. Some Democrats noted that the Legislature traditionally passes its main budget bill, House Bill 2, late in legislative sessions when more information is available about the amount of revenue coming in from tax collections. We havent even paid our bills yet. We havent even passed a House Bill 2. And here we are, trying to spend money, said Rep. Emma Kerr-Carpenter, D-Billings. Democrats also argued that the property tax rebate measure, House Bill 222, is structured so that Montanans who rent their homes instead of owning them wont receive any property tax relief, even though property taxes are routinely factored into rents. An amendment brought by Rep. Jonathan Karlen, D-Missoula, attempted to add a tax credit for renters. It failed on a party line vote. Without this amendment, this rebate excludes more than a third of working Montana families, Karlen argued. Republicans said the income tax rebate measure, House Bill 192, would put money back in the pockets of working Montanans, regardless of their living situation. During debate on that bill, sponsor Rep. Bill Mercer, R-Billings, held up a copy of the states income tax form, the document filed by most wage earners. If they have a tax liability which they do, because theyre helping fund state government if they have a tax liability of $1,250 thats on that form, they get it back, Mercer said. Democrats also made unsuccessful attempts to remove language that Republicans inserted in the House Appropriations Committee to tie together the fate of the bills fates together, reducing their individual effects by half if any of the other measures are voted down or vetoed. The six bills in the package are as follows. All except House Bill 267, which won unanimous support, advanced Wednesday on party line or near party line votes with Republican support and Democratic opposition: House Bill 222, which would put about $284 million into property tax rebates. In its current form it would provide rebates of up to $500 per homeowner for taxes paid in 2022 and 2023. The Montana Department of Revenue estimates that about 292,000 households would be eligible each year. House Bill 192, which would put $480 million into income tax rebates. Individual taxpayers would qualify for up to $1,250 in rebates on their 2021 state income tax bill, and married couples who file jointly would qualify for up to $2,500. The revenue department estimates that about 460,000 taxpayers would be eligible. House Bill 212, which would raise the exemption threshold for the states business equipment tax from $300,000 of business property to $1 million. It includes a provision to backfill local government revenues and would cost the state about $7 million a year going forward. House Bill 221, which would change how the state defines its capital gains rate and reduce the rates. It would set the states long-term capital gains tax rate at 3% for the first $41,000 of applicable capital gains income and at 4.1% for income beyond that. House Bill 267, which would put $100 million into a highway construction fund. Supporters have said the money would make it possible for the state to access additional federal transportation matching funds. Unlike the other bills in the package, HB 267 advanced with unanimous support from the committee. House Bill 251, which puts $150 million into paying down existing state debt. Being a Native journalist, you know youre going to cover those kinds of stories, said University of Montana alumna Luella Brien, You just know. Brien, a member of the Apsaalooke tribe, has experienced the challenges and pain that often come with covering the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Persons crisis in Montana, but shes never been afraid of pushing for the truth. With strong ties to the community and journalistic expertise, Brien serves as a key voice in the docuseries Murder in Big Horn, now streaming on Showtime. Growing up in Big Horn County, Brien developed an interest in journalism during high school, but it wasnt until she won an essay contest that the profession started to look like a viable career path. Former UM journalism Professor Denny McAuliffe presented her with the award. He said it was a hard choice between first and second place, she said with a chuckle. I had won first, and my friend won second, and I actually wrote her essay. So they gave me her prize as well. Brien made the decision to pursue a bachelors degree in journalism at UM while building experience as an editor for Reznet, a site that gathered Native news from across the country. You take a very broad range of everything, so you get kind of a sampling of the world, Brien said of her time at UM. It really opens up your perspective. After graduating, Brien spent time at the Ravalli Republic and the Billings Gazette. She took a step back from news for a few years, working as a media consultant, teacher and in community outreach. In 2019, she put her journalist hat on again, this time for the Big Horn County News. Throughout these experiences, Brien wanted more freedom to pursue the stories that mattered to her community, including stories about missing and murdered Indigenous women. The best way to accomplish that she decided was to create her own platform called Four Points Press Media. I always wanted my own website. Its something Id been toying with for years, Brien said. I resigned, and by the end of the week, I had my domain name. Two weeks later I was publishing. Four Points Press provides meaningful stories and vital information to the communities it serves. For Brien, that mission is as personal as it is powerful. Thats why she was initially hesitant when she was approached by Murder in Big Horn director Matthew Galkin to participate in the docuseries. We had a lot of national media coming in looking for background information, she said. Its never my cup of tea to provide that information, because a lot of times they come in, write their headline, they dont get the nuances of the community. They just get their headline and they head out. Brien avoided Galkin and his teams advances until he showed up in town hoping for a meeting. She did some background research of her own, watching Galkins previous work Murder in the Bayou. The interviews he got from people were not the kind of interviews you get when you just parachute in, she said. So, I thought OK, well maybe this is someone I could at least meet with. They built a rapport slowly over a few separate meetings. The crew continued to make visits to Montana and each time met with Brien to get another glimpse into her life and process as a journalist. It just kind of organically grew into what it became with me in the vast majority of the series, Brien said. The three-episode series looks at the cases of several Indigenous women who went missing or were found dead on or near the Crow and Northern Cheyenne Reservations in Big Horn County. Brien provides context to the media coverage and community response to those cases. She believes her role as a journalist is to inform and not sensationalize something she feels the series accomplishes. It really does capture the emotion of the time, she said, but I think the community will feel validated in that it goes into the explanation of all of the factors that come together to create this perfect storm that creates the opportunity for women and girls to be exploited the way they are. Brien hopes viewers will approach the series with an open mind, and for those who feel called to take action, she encourages support of Independent Indigenous media and Indigenous resource organizations, as well as calls for state and federal policy change. Shes hopeful about the results of these stories being seen on the national stage, but ultimately, shes telling these stories for her own community. Its definitely a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to team up with Showtime to tell these kinds of stories, she said. I really do hope that my community is proud of the work that I do in the series. I want them to know the work that I do as a journalist is not for me, its for them. Murder in Big Horn premieres on Showtime on Sunday, Feb. 5. It is available to stream online Feb. 3. The milling industrys use of imported wheat is not undercutting UK growers despite the view held by some farmers, UK Flour Millers has said. The industry trade association has outlined in a new position statement why UK mills buy imported wheat and how it is assured. In a typical year, over 80% of the wheat used by UK millers is homegrown, assured under Red Tractor Combinable Crops or the Scottish Quality Crops (SQC) scheme. This is a historically high level of homegrown usage, UK Flour Millers says, as new baking techniques and the breeding of higher protein wheats suited to UK farms has flipped miller demand away from imported breadmaking options. Now, imported wheats typically make up only 15 percent of UK miller demand, the trade body explains. It says these imported high protein options provide exceptionally strong gluten to complement homegrown protein. They also offer a high level of protein to smooth out variation in UK wheat quality and substitute for domestic wheat in seasons where the supply is poor. Of this 15%, the majority comes from Canada - typically 10% - with approximately 5% from Germany and a small proportion from France, under 1%. UK Flour Millers says Red Tractor and SQC standards are robust, so it is not surprised that assured farmers are keen to understand whether similar requirements apply in the imported countries of origin. Some origins do have equivalent standards, with some even going further than the Red Tractor scheme, the association suggests. However, some are not equivalent, and in these cases the seller must provide extensive food safety and quality test results for every 200 tonne batch of wheat, a significant cost borne by the seller. Following the release of the position statement, UK Flour Millers technical manager, Joe Brennan said the Red Tractor crops scheme was well-understood and had excellent compliance rates. Unlike in other countries, he said the scheme was developed with significant farmer input, ensuring it reflected real farm practice. "If a farmer wishes to sell unassured grain to a UK flour mill they would need to provide agrochemical and mycotoxin test results for at least every 200 tonne of grain drawn from the same bulk, at their own expense. "This is clearly a less efficient means of providing assurance and its no wonder that Red Tractor is well supported by processors," he said. Red Tractor provides assurance but its also a story of supply chain cooperation and market access. All UK flour milling businesses require Red Tractor or SQC crops assurance. "We dont see a range of different schemes applied by different milling businesses in order for farmers to supply. Millers speak from experience when they say the Red Tractor scheme is efficient and straightforward. "It is a stark contrast to the myriad schemes millers must comply with as food businesses, in many cases to supply just one business with flour. He added: Competing schemes can of course be set up, but from the milling industry perspective the standards within a new scheme must be at least as stringent as those within Red Tractor. Bangladesh commerce minister Tipu Munshi recently sought more Chinese investment, especially in the special economic zones and in agro-based industries in the northern region. He made the request while the newly appointed Chinese ambassador to Bangladesh Yao Wen met him at his office. Efforts would be made to simplify further the investment procedure, he assured. China is supporting Bangladesh a lot in development projects, especially the mega ones, said a ministry press release. He also suggested Chinese investors to visit the northern part of Bangladesh, according to Bangladeshi media reports. Bangladesh commerce minister Tipu Munshi recently sought more Chinese investment, especially in the special economic zones and in agro-based industries in the north. He made the request while the newly appointed Chinese ambassador to Bangladesh Yao Wen met him at his office. Efforts would be made to simplify further the investment procedure, he assured. Bangladesh imported goods worth $26,253.05 million from China in fiscal 2021-22 against exports worth $683.43 million, according to official data. Fibre2Fashion News Desk (DS) Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - February 3, 2023) - Doubleview Gold Corp. (TSXV: DBG) (OTCQB: DBLVF) (FSE: A1W038) (the "Company or "Doubleview") announces that Mr. Charles Hugh Maddin has resigned from the board of directors of the Company, and the board has accepted his resignation. The Company thanks Mr. Maddin for his contributions and wishes him every success in his future endeavors. About Doubleview Gold Corp Doubleview Gold Corp., a mineral resource exploration and development company, is based in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, and is publicly traded on the TSX-Venture Exchange (TSXV: DBG), (OTCQB: DBLVF), (FSE: A1W038), (FSE: 1D4). Doubleview identifies, acquires and finances precious and base metal exploration projects in North America, particularly in British Columbia. Doubleview increases shareholder value through acquisition and exploration of quality gold, copper and silver properties and the application of advanced state-of-the-art exploration methods. The Company's portfolio of strategic properties provides diversification and mitigates investment risk. On behalf of the Board of Directors, Farshad Shirvani, President & Chief Executive Officer For further information please contact: Doubleview Gold Corp Vancouver, BC Farshad Shirvani President & CEO T: (604) 678-9587 E: corporate@doubleview.ca NEITHER TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE NOR ITS REGULATION SERVICES PROVIDER (AS THAT TERM IS DEFINED IN THE POLICIES OF THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE) ACCEPTS RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS RELEASE. Certain of the statements made and information contained herein may constitute "forward-looking information." In particular references to the private placement and future work programs or expectations on the quality or results of such work programs are subject to risks associated with operations on the property, exploration activity generally, equipment limitations and availability, as well as other risks that we may not be currently aware of. Accordingly, readers are advised not to place undue reliance on forward-looking information. Except as required under applicable securities legislation, the Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/153686 Vacaville high school students explore local career opportunities to honor National Career Technical Education Month VACAVILLE, Calif., Feb. 03, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- February is National Career Technical Education (CTE) Month, and the City of Vacaville joined the celebration by hosting a field trip for 58 Vacaville high school students February 3. The field trip included several locations around Vacaville and Solano County to explore advanced manufacturing and biotechnology. Every February, the Association for Career and Technical Education encourages communities to celebrate CTE Month, to raise awareness of the role that CTE has in readying learners for college and career success. This is also a time when the City of Vacaville recognizes and celebrates the contributions and achievements of community CTE partners including Solano Community College. "This field trip is an excellent opportunity for Vacaville's young people to explore advanced manufacturing and biotechnology first-hand," said Don Burrus, Director of Economic Development Services for the City of Vacaville. "We are excited to give our students this unique learning experience during National Career Technical Education Month and to share opportunities available to them right here in their own community. Not only does this set our students up for success, but it also supports the local, organic growth and expansion of our talent pipeline and attracts more industries." The adventure began at the SCC Advanced Manufacturing Lab where students had an opportunity to program CNC (Computer Numerical Control) equipment which plays a pivotal role in manufacturing. The SCC certificate and degree program trains students on electrical and mechanical components used in manufacturing systems. "The program offers a great solution for students to get into higher level jobs," said Douglas Green, Advanced Manufacturing Instructor with SCC. "Students get a lot of hands-on training working on real projects, learning how to troubleshoot and problem solve. Almost all of our students, if they're not already working, receive several competing job offers to go right to work." Moving next to Wunder-Bar, students experienced firsthand the shift from learning environment to real world manufacturing. Wunder-Bar manufactures food and beverage dispensing systems. A leader in the industry, they pride themselves on innovation, custom product development, quality and top-notch service. "Career and Technical Education is critical to meeting the workforce needs," said Emmalie Hawes, Director of Human Resources West Coast, Foodservice West with Wunder-Bar. "Careers in advanced manufacturing are not only in high demand, but they also lead to highly successful careers. As a long-standing business in the community, we are dedicated in advancing the cause." Next on the itinerary, students visited the Nut Tree Airport in Vacaville for a tour of the SCC AeronauticsCenter where they learned about Airframe and Power Plant Maintenance. The program equips students with practical and theoretical knowledge in basic maintenance techniques, and special requirements of airframe and powerplant work. Upon conclusion, students are eligible to take the Federal Aviation Administration written oral and practical examination for airframe or powerplant license. Creating the connection from education to practice, students then visited ICON Aircraftin Vacaville who provided a tour of their aircraft production facility and an opportunity for the students to meet the technicians who build the amphibious light-sport aircraft. "ICON takes pride in its aircraft design and is very proud to invite the local community to see the great work that we do in designing the best light aircraft with the first ever "spin resistant" seal of approval from the FAA," shared Maria Odena Head of ICON's Human Resources. "A career in manufacturing typically gives most individuals a hands on experience working with exciting new technologies or products," added Andrew Mesias, ICON's Senior Manager at the Aircraft Completion Center. The day was concluded with biomanufacturing which included a tour of the Solano College Vacaville Campus California Biomanufacturing Education Center. The $34 million Center is equipped with state-of-the-art technology to further new education opportunities and is one of 15 community colleges in California that offers a Bachelor of Sciencedegree. "The students can come in, and depending on their personal circumstances, can exit into a high tech, high quality, high potential for upward mobility career," said Michael Silva, Professor with the Solano Community College Biotechnology Program. "We have a near 100% placement rate and are trying to increase the pipeline and the number of students who are taking our program with a high school to Ph.D. pathway with multiple entry and exit points." The final business tour at Vacaville's RxD Nova Pharmaceuticals created the link between classroom and career. Students were able to see how a biomanufacturing facility operates and the types of careers available in the industry. Students learned the concept of biological drugs and how they differ from chemical drugs, as well as the application of biological drugs in clinical treatment. "RxD Nova Pharmaceuticals is an emerging biotechnology and biomanufacturing company," shared Dr. W Shen, Chief Operating Officer at RxD Nova Pharmaceuticals. "We support Vacaville's Career Technical Education program because we want to help Vacaville's youth grow. Vacaville has long been the center of biomanufacturing in California. We need to help encourage younger, talented students to join the industry and support the development of biomedicine." The City of Vacaville has become a leader in the life-science market with a robust Biotech Strategyand a Biotechnology Fast-Track Programcommitting the City to processing Planning entitlements in 100 days or less. It is not just about available and affordable land; Vacaville's prime location and talent pipeline have created the perfect ecosystem. Sharing the exciting career opportunities with local high school students offers each of them a wide variety of options right in their own backyard and secures a future in this rapidly growing field for generations to come. Contact: Don Burrus Director of Economic Development Services 707.449.5611 Don.Burrus@cityofvacaville.com Photos accompanying this announcement are available at: https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/611d209a-2ff8-4ab6-8ec8-962602aec0ee https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/13e5bf96-bd62-49c5-9bb9-e6f73c4dc851 https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/b7e90009-e8cd-4e06-a3d3-3bd6f8eeefd6 https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/f1495acc-f00d-4d95-956c-495808b95433 Autel, a leading provider of automotive electronics and diagnostic equipment and tools, exhibited for the first time at eCarExpo, the largest electric vehicles fair in the Nordic countries, on February 3-5, 2023, in Friends Arena, Stockholm. Autel brought its portfolio of products featuring the recently launched electric vehicle charger the MaxiCharger DC Compact. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230204005001/en/ Autel signs partnership agreement with leading charging operator Eways (Photo: Business Wire) As Autel's newly launched DC charger for EVs, the MaxiCharger DC Compact is not only sleek and compact with a 21.5-inch LCD touchscreen, but also powerful enough to provide up to 47kW of power for the European version. Either placed on a pedestal, or set on wheels for ultimate portability, the MaxiCharger DC Compact is perfect for charging operators wanting to provide their customers with a quick charge option. It can charge 2 vehicles simultaneously, sharing power dynamically between the two vehicles. A 30-minute charge equates to about 130 km of range, saving on charging time. Mr. Ting Cai, CEO of Autel Europe, said, "The MaxiCharger DC Compact is a powerful addition to Autel's growing portfolio of EV chargers. With big power and big value in a compact package, it has low installation costs, meaning a faster ROI due to reduced capital expenditures for the site operator." During the eCarExpo, Autel signed an agreement with the Sweden-based electric vehicle charging operator Eways to provide EV charging stations in the Nordics. Through the partnership, Autel hopes to expand its market for charging equipment, by utilizing Eways' vast experience and geographical footprint with 20 offices throughout the region. Niclas Sahlgren, CEO of Eways, said, "Eways' purpose is to make it easy to charge electric vehicles. Expanding the charging infrastructure to provide quick, reliable and flexible EV charging solutions in the region is a vital aspect of the transition to a fossil fuel-free future. With Autel's wide range of innovative AC- and DC-chargers, we will broaden our product line in order to offer the best solutions for each unique customer situation." About Autel Autel designs, engineers, and manufactures some of the most advanced chargers for residential and commercial users, offering hardware, software, apps, and cloud-based solutions to cover almost every use case and application. For more information, visit autelenergy.eu About Eways Eways was founded by Petra and Niclas Sahlgren in Stocksund in 2015 with a vision to make it easy to drive an electric car. Today they have about 120 wonderful employees in Team Eways with offices in Stockholm, Lund, Angelholm, Gothenburg, Karlstad, Falun, Umea, Linkoping, Jonkoping, Kalmar, Boras, Trollhattan and Uppsala, and over 25,000 connected charging points across the country. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230204005001/en/ Contacts: evinfo.eu@autel.com +49(0)89 540299608 Alternative Capital Investment Limited has made capital commitment to Tokyo, Japan based GHOVC Fund I Investment Limited Partnership that is managed by Global Hands-On VC Kabushiki Kaisha. GHOVC invests in Japanese technology startups, helps its invested startups build management and technical talent from a global talent pool, optimize their product-market fit, and raise funds from global VCs and CVCs. GHOVC Fund I has received approximately 5 billion yen commitment from Sojitz Corporation, Sompo Light Vortex Corporation, and SunBridge Corporation. We will raise money and raise funds. GHOVC was established by two Japanese and three American partners, who are successful entrepreneurs and fund managers. The team is experienced in founding and managing startups with global product teams and products adopted by global customers. AIC is currently launching a Strategic Investment Program to invest in unique fund managers that are expected to grow in the future. In order to serve as a bridge between these fund managers and institutional investors, AIC will not only make investment commitments but also support the activities of fund managers so that they can attract funds from institutional investors in the future. FinSMEs 04/02/2023 Do you remember the days you waited in line at banks to withdraw and deposit money? Sending money would become pure torture. Luckily, the banking concept has also evolved to a different dimension with the change and development of technology. We started to handle my transactions quite easily from financial applications (mobile apps and software). Among them, a fintech company works as an alternative for banks called wamo. In this article we want to introduce the readers to this financial platform, discussing what wamo is and what kind of service it provides. What is wamo? wamo, the fintech company, operates as an alternative to banking institutions, allowing businesses to register business accounts, transfer and receive money, make payments, and distribute debit cards. Various advantages are combined on wamo.io under one roof. Almost any operation you want to do with funds can be done from the wamo app without signing out. The most exciting feature of the platform is that account users may also manage the teams finances via the app, including issuing cards, making budgets, and transferring money with currency alternatives. What Kinds of Services Does wamo Offer? Most of the worlds nations make obtaining a business bank account difficult and time-consuming. wamo offers services for businesses. Account setup takes a few minutes. Here are the advantages for businesses. Teams benefit greatly from wamo since account owners have cards and can distribute and load cards for members of the team. The business owners can manage resources from the app, establish budgets, and see project-specific spending. Easy account management where they can monitor account activities on the dashboard, add team members with different access levels, and transfer money across sub-accounts. Account owners may manage submitted receipts and track and organize their spending. wamo transforms into an accounting platform that offers costs and transaction analysis on demand or at predetermined intervals by connecting a chosen accounting program. How Does wamo Function? Regardless of where you reside on the globe, if your company is registered in the EU or the UK, you can quickly create a wamo account and begin business hassle-free. For every kind of business, there is a wamo subscription deal available. You may quickly and easily register for wamo business on the web or by downloading the app. After you download the app, you can share basic company information. As a third step, you need to verify your identity. Thats all, and wamo handles the rest. Is wamo Safe for My Business? wamo is an initiative that offers highly reliable e-money services. The fintech company collects only necessary information from customers. They need your contact details, such as name, telephone number, email address, and address. As well as basic information about the business. They collect financial data like bank account and billing address details. Also, wamo asks for location, work-related, and communications data. In order to prevent the unintended loss, modification, disclosure, or use of your private details, they have set up essential security measures. They also restrict access to your private information to representatives, personnel, contractors, as well as other third-party services. 100% of the funds you have in your wamo account are safeguarded in specialty banks with necessary licenses. Is It Practical to Open a Sub-account with wamo? Yes, definitely! If you own a large or understaffed company and need help with accounts, you can get organized with wamo. Thanks to the financial platform, you have the flexibility to open a sub-account. You can open as many sub-accounts as you need in your business. No limit! Your business operations will operate more smoothly thanks to the sub-accounts improved account structure. You can arrange your money and cash flow in different currencies, associated with a business partner, a project, costs, or a team member. You can obtain a report or statement for each sub-account if you require one. The account owner can connect a card to any of the sub-accounts and limit its use, making it simple to manage costs. Thanks to those sub-accounts, the owner grants certain users restricted access to a sub-account. Are wamos Virtual and Physical Visa Debit Cards Helpful to My Companys Operations? Thanks to wamo, you can have multiple virtual and debit cards at the same time. You can easily organize and monitor each card. You can strengthen your team with high spending limits. It is possible to link cards to different accounts securely. You can get your virtual cards instantly on wamos app. You can control the limit and make online payments effortlessly without disrupting the workflow. Linking your virtual cards to EU and GB IBANs is extremely simple. With team cards connected to your business account or sub-account, you can acquire up to 50 physical and virtual Visa debit cards by default. From your wamo dashboard, set individual daily, weekly, or monthly spending caps for each card. View, top-up, and set customized limits for all virtual and physical cards linked to the owners business account and sub-accounts. You are in control! Any card may be frozen and unfrozen with a single tap, and virtual cards can be deleted at any time. You have an additional layer of protection thanks to virtual business cards. Keeping your companys cash secure is simpler with wamo! Is Wamo a Good Option for Payment Methods? Yes, wamo is one of the best for various payment methods. You can make international and local money transfers easily and securely. Send funds in GBP, or EUR. Thanks to currency conversion, you can pay the ECB mid-rate plus 0.50% for international payments, and without one, you pay a set rate of 14.99. wamo charges are consistently reasonable and open. When you create a wamo business bank account and whenever you add a sub-account, decide whether to use a EUR or GBP IBAN. wamo is here to make international business simpler. Add payee information or select from your contacts to conduct fast local transfers, and money will start transferring in just a few clicks. Make local payments quickly through your business account on wamo thanks to UK Faster Payments or SEPA in the EU. Create statements for funds as needed and maintain track of the progress of all transfers. What about wamos Plan Prices? wamo memberships are made to fit your needs as they develop and expand your business. You may switch your plan when you become more extensive and can choose between 19.99 and 99.99 per month. The Starter pack is 19.99 and is suitable for micro or small businesses. You may need to pay to use wamos different services after creating an account. The Grow pack is 49.99, the most popular choice among users. It is best for growing businesses. Some services of wamo are free for business owners, and also, they can benefit from the other services at fair prices. The Scale pack is 99.99, which is best for larger businesses. Almost any service of wamo is free for the users. Choose the most suitable one for your business and follow your progress. Last But Not Least People searching for quick, inexpensive international payments and innovative currency management should check out wamo. Business owners may move money across multiple currencies and international destinations using borderless accounts. Your transactions become simple, quick, and straightforward with lower costs. FoodByUs, a Sydney, Australia-based wholesale hospitality marketplace, raised $12m in Series B funding. The round was led by Base Capital, with participation from FJ Labs, Trawalla Group, and Macquarie Capital. The company intends to use the funds to continue to expand operations and its business reach. Founded by Ben Lipschitz, Tim Chandler and Gary Munitz, FoodByUs provides an online platform that connects restaurants, cafes, hotels, bars, pubs & clubs with wholesale food and alcohol suppliers. Venue operators can search across thousands of products, with transparent pricing, and no credit applications. The platform offers a range of categories, from fruit and veg, to meat and poultry, to alcohol, packaging and more. The company currently has a team of 65. FinSMEs 04/02/2023 TeamSystem an Italian tech company operating in the development of digital solutions to manage the business of enterprises and professionals announced the signing of a binding agreement for the acquisition from Growens of the business focused on marketing automation and data economy, made up of the business units MailUp, Contactlab, and Acumbamail, for a total consideration of Euro 70m. The deal will provide Growens with a material source of liquidity, which will enable, on one hand, dimensional and capitalization growth, via the strengthened investment capability in the Groups fastest-growing businesses, namely BEE, and on the other hand to deliver returns to stakeholders. For Growens, the sale of the Email Service Provider business implies the transfer of a headcount of ca. 260 people in Italy, Spain and Denmark, including Messrs Luca Azzali, Alberto Miscia and Massimo Fubini, who will take on roles within the transferred activities, while remaining shareholders of Growens S.p.A.. The transaction is in line with TeamSystems development strategy, as it enables further strengthening and development of the groups technological value proposition which will therefore be stronger in the marketing automation and data economy sector completing the range of solutions aimed at business development and digitization of SMEs entire value chain, both in Italy, thanks to MailUp and Contactlab, and in Spain, with Acumbamail. Specifically, MailUp is the Growens groups business unit engaging in multichannel marketing automation. Founded in 2002 in Cremona, the company has grown over the years to become the market leader in Italy, getting constantly stronger abroad, with around 10,000 customers worldwide. Thanks to Contactlabs recent admission into the group, the MailUp supply side featured new solutions, including Customer Data Platform and advanced Marketing Automation. Acumbamail is an email and SMS marketing technology provider based in Spain, which, through a next generation platform, offers services with a freemium business model suitable for micro and small businesses. TeamSystem is an Italian tech company in the market of digital solutions to manage the business of companies and professionals. The Group founded in Pesaro and with a 40-year track record reported a turnover of 545 million in 2021. TeamSystem can count on a network of over 550 structures with partner software and direct offices, serving over 1.7 million customers operating on proprietary digital platforms and in the Cloud. Growens (GROW) is a player in the field of Cloud Marketing Technologies, with thousands of clients worldwide. Its suite of SaaS and CPaaS solutions enable SMEs and large companies to effectively communicate with their customers in ever-changing ways. Starting with MailUp, since 2002 the Group has embarked on a path of constant organic and external growth, which culminated in the launch of innovative products such as BEEfree.io. The company has been admitted to trading on the multilateral trading system called Euronext Growth Milan (EGM) as from 2014, with a float of around 35%. FinSMEs 04(02/2023 ION Mobility, a Singapore-based tech and automotive OEM, raised US$18.7M in Series A funding. Backers included TVS Motor Company, AC Ventures Malaysia, Michael Sampoerna, Ng Ho Sen, and existing investors such as TNB Aura, Quest Ventures, Monks Hill Ventures, Village Global, GDP Venture and Seeds Capital. The company intends to use the funds to invest the capital into Indonesia to grow its local team, operations and capabilities. This includes its sales and marketing presence, local supply chain networks, production tooling and manufacturing capabilities in Indonesia. Led by Founder and CEO James Chan, ION Mobility is a tech and automotive OEM on a mission to create and deliver aspirational and sustainable mobility and energy solutions for everyone. Its products combine hardware and software technology with human-centred design to deliver smart electric motorbikes and energy charging and storage solutions. This announcement follows ION Mobilitys launch of its M1-S electric scooter in Jakarta in November 2022, which also saw the company sign a broad-ranging Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Indonesias national grid operator PT Perusahaan Listrik Negara (PLN) to expand PLNs charging network, in addition to two-wheeler fast-charging technology research and user outreach and education. As part of this investment, TVS Motor will provide ION with the necessary ecosystem support to be successful in the electric two-wheeler markets of Singapore and Indonesia. This new funding round brings the total capital raised by ION to over US$25.5 million since 2020. FinSMEs 04/02/2023 Leeds Equity Partners acquired TalentNeuron, a US provider of human capital data and insights subscription solutions to corporations, government organizations and educational institutions, from Gartner, Inc. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed. TalentNeuron provides subscription data solutions and research and advisory insights that enable over 700 corporations, government organizations and educational institutions to develop their human capital management strategies and address their significant people, skills and resource challenges utilizing a data-informed approach with deep insights, analytics, and expert advice on a global basis. The acquisition of TalentNeuron further builds upon Leeds Equitys strong sector franchise in research, data and insight businesses and its decades of work across the human capital management sector. TalentNeuron represents Leeds Equitys eighth platform investment in its most recent buyout fund, Leeds Equity Partners VII, a $1.4 billion investment fund. FinSMEs 04/02/2023 In February 2022, Vedanta and Foxconn announced a partnership to build semiconductor fab units in India. Six months later, the joint venture signed two memorandums of understanding with the Gujarat government to establish a semiconductor fabrication unit, a display fabrication unit, and a semiconductor assembly and testing unit in Ahmedabad. And now, according to a new report from ET, this joint venture is on the verge of bringing in European chipmaker STMicroelectronics as a technology partner in their proposed semiconductor chip manufacturing unit in India. Because these projects involve a state government subsidy of 10-25% and a national government subsidy of 50%, partnering with a licensed semiconductor technology maker with necessary chip manufacturing experience is one of the prerequisites for project approval and incentive grant. To remind you, the Vedanta-Foxconn consortium is one of five applicants seeking government incentives, and this collaboration would help them win. Aside from that, the report claims that Foxconn is committed to India and will invest roughly $70-80 billion in chip manufacturing. This improves the local semiconductor manufacturing scenario in India. A Vedanta spokesperson did not confirm or deny the report, but did tell ET, The government is keen that the project goes ahead with the best technology partners. And we are aligned with the government on this. Together with Foxconn, we are in talks with several potential technology partners to make this project a huge success not just for us but for the nation. We should get more information regarding the matter in the coming weeks. Source The Lithuanian Energy Minister Dainius Kreivys and the Minister of Transport and Communications Marius Skuodis spoke with Georgia's Economy Minister Levan Davitashvili on Friday as part of his official visit there, according to the Economy Ministry, Azernews reports with reference to Agenda. In a meeting between Davitashvili and Kreivys, the parties highlighted the importance of the diversification of energy resources supply for the countrys energy security, with Georgian Minister informing the Lithuanian counterpart on the energy market liberalisation reform, which he noted would contribute to the competitive and proper development of the countrys energy sector, attract additional investments, and create new energy capacities. The new renewable energy support scheme developed by the Georgian Government to encourage private investments in the energy sector was also discussed, with the officials emphasising that the countries would continue cooperation in the energy sector, including in the use of renewable energy sources. At the bilateral meeting with Transport Minister Skuodis, Davitashvili introduced the transit possibilities of the Middle Corridor to his Lithuanian colleague and briefed him on the countrys priority directions in transport infrastructure development. The need to diversify transit routes amid the current processes in the Black Sea region, as well as increased demand for alternative routes for cargo delivery, was also discussed by the parties. Georgia has been actively working to attract transit cargo and develop the Middle Corridor to connect Europe and Asia, Davitashvili pointed out. Strengthening cooperation in civil aviation was also reviewed at the meeting, with the sides stressing that the direct flights between Tbilisi and Vilnius would give an additional incentive to economic relations between the countries. The Georgian side named Anaklia deep-sea port on western Georgia's Black Sea coast as one of the Government's priorities. The meeting also focused on cooperation in the field of telecommunications and information technologies, as well as on the development of the digital transit hub in Georgia, with Davitashvili emphasising the strategic importance of the project for the country, which includes the development of the Europe-Asia connecting highway through the Black Sea, and on the other hand, the establishment of regional data centres in Georgia. For leaders, 2022 was defined by a war for talent and the office. Slumping employee engagement and wellbeing painted a grim picture of disrupted workplaces across the world. Some workers reevaluated their work lives, and others rethought their careers entirely. Some even took to social media and voiced their frustrations through testimonials about quiet quitting, coasting at work and quiet firing. Many workers transitioned into hybrid work, splitting time between working from home and the office. Debates ensued about how often they should be in the office -- and who should make those decisions. Employee-employer relations frayed. In extreme cases, leaders demanded all workers return on-site full time, and employees simply ignored the rules. ###Embeddable### Leading teams and organizations to calm waters has never felt quite like this. With continued economic headwinds on the horizon and flailing consumer confidence comes a great deal of uncertainty about the future of the workplace. One thing is certain: How we work and live has changed and we must adapt. Whats next for 2023, and where should leaders and managers focus our efforts? Here are six of Gallups most important findings of 2022 to follow in the new year: 1. The employee engagement slump continues. ###Embeddable### Employee engagement is critical to the productivity, morale, development and retention of every organizations workforce. Engaged employees are invested in and enthusiastic about their work and workplace -- they consistently outperform and stay longer than less-engaged employees. Employee engagement in the U.S. had been steadily increasing for a decade when the COVID-19 pandemic hit. Amazingly, engagement continued to reach record highs in 2020 amid efforts to save businesses and support employees. But as the pandemic wore on and leadership efforts waned, engagement began to decline in mid-2021. By early 2022, U.S. employee engagement slumped to a seven-year low with 32% of employees engaged and 17% actively disengaged at work. The slump continued throughout 2022 as engagement levels remained relatively unchanged. Looking forward, the stagnation of employee engagement is one of the biggest threats to organizations and entire economies as we transition to 2023 and beyond. Gallup research has long tied engagement to important organizational outcomes, such as profitability, productivity, customer service, retention, safety and wellbeing. In fact, employees who are not engaged or who are actively disengaged cost the world $7.8 trillion in lost productivity (11% of global GDP) last year, according to Gallups State of the Global Workplace: 2022 Report. The good news? Organizations dedicated to improving employee engagement have long weathered these storms and outperformed their less-engaged competitors in the process. Not only can progress be made on engagement in 2023, but our Gallup Exceptional Workplace Award winners currently cultivate more than twice as many engaged employees as the national average. Read more: U.S. Employee Engagement Needs a Rebound in 2023 2. Hybrid work is here to stay -- the office will never be the same. ###Embeddable### In 2023, the Great Global Work-From-Home Experiment will likely find its equilibrium. Approximately 56% of U.S. full-time employees are remote-capable, and about half of those employees are now working as hybrid workers. Only two in 10 are fully on-site, and a mere 6% of remote-capable workers want to be fully on-site going forward. Long term, organizations are planning for their remote-capable workforce to include: 55% hybrid workers 22% fully remote workers 23% fully on-site workers Despite some leaders wishes, remote work flexibility is here to stay. Nearly one-third of hybrid workers and six in 10 fully remote workers say they would be extremely likely to look for opportunities with other organizations if their employer decides not to offer remote work flexibility in the future. Going forward, asking employees where they work best will be an important piece to the making hybrid work work puzzle. When their preferred work location does not match their actual location, employees are substantially less engaged, more likely to burn out and more likely to leave their employer. Hybrid teams must also learn to coordinate their schedules in a way that optimizes team collaboration and ensures customer needs are met. Gallup recently discovered that hybrid workers are most engaged when their team (vs. the company or individuals) collaboratively sets work schedules and policies. Read more: Returning to the Office: The Current, Preferred and Future State of Remote Work 3. Dont confuse being in the office with culture. ###Embeddable### One of Gallups most striking findings from 2022 was that hybrid workers feel closer to their organizations culture than do fully on-site workers. This challenges the idea that the office is synonymous with culture. In-person interactions are powerful, but hybrid workers are likely getting something else -- more intentional in-person experiences and online experiences. They may also feel that, when they are given greater flexibility, their organization cares about and trusts them more, which strengthens the bond with their employer. Hybrid work can help move organizations out of default mode and clarify employer and employee expectations. Todays new hybrid workplace will challenge many leaders to reinvent the meaning, purpose and experience of their workplace culture. They will have to redefine the why and how behind their work strategies, practices and norms. Above all, we recommend encouraging employees to be more involved (and feel more included) in what that new culture will be. After all, a workplace culture is ultimately defined by how we work together. Read more: Dont Confuse Being in the Office With Culture 4. The hybrid workplace will challenge managers in new ways. ###Embeddable### Managers are the lynchpin that hold your teams together. The pandemic, remote work and, now, return to the office transitions have made their jobs more difficult than ever. Managers are constantly stuck between frustrated leaders and team members. They are the translators and scapegoats. Hybrid work brings a new wrinkle to their jobs with a unique set of communication and coordination challenges -- and no tried-and-true playbooks to fall back on. Although the majority of employees prefer hybrid work, Gallup analysis shows that managers are facing new burdens from it. Hybrid work has simply put more on their plate, from the daily coordination of employees who are on different schedules and working from different places, to the challenge of not being able to observe all of the real-time interactions of the team theyre managing. As a result, hybrid managers are now more burned out than their direct reports and their bosses. In fact, theyre feeling more burned out and less connected to their company culture than managers who lead fully remote or on-site teams. The problem is that the hybrid work transition has focused mainly on supporting individual contributors. And since individual contributors are more likely to benefit from executing their tasks alone, they also benefit from doing those tasks in a way that works best for them. Managers are different. They are in charge of fostering things like productivity, collaboration, engagement and equity at the team level. They are tasked with embodying company culture and values. And they often rely on managers from other functions for help, advice and support. In the shift to hybrid, many managers may have lost some of the informal connections that made their job easier and more enjoyable. Providing managers with more support, training, communication, and opportunities to rebuild their relationships and networks will be imperative this year. Read more: Manager Burnout Is Only Getting Worse 5. Burnout and mental health struggles are the new productivity killers. ###Embeddable### Employee wellbeing is foundational to performance, engagement and longevity at work. Yet, employee wellbeing has been dismal throughout the pandemic with 2022 being no exception. Three in 10 employees in the U.S. reported being burned out very often or always at work. Four in 10 employees revealed that their job had a negative impact on their mental health in the past six months. And individuals with poor or fair mental health missed nearly five times as many days of work as those with good mental health in 2022. Further, employees are rapidly losing faith in their employer as only 24% of employees strongly agree that their employer cares about their wellbeing. Its no coincidence that quiet quitting was one of the most popular workplace catch phrases of 2022. Between slumping employee engagement and rampant wellbeing challenges, many employees are withdrawing from their job in order to preserve their mental health. Going forward, having a clear strategy for protecting people from burnout and addressing mental health issues is not just a defensive move -- it will be key to attracting, engaging and retaining talent. When we asked currently employed individuals what they wanted most in their next job, the No. 1 answer was more pay, but a close second place was greater work-life balance and better personal wellbeing -- a notable increase for these key factors since 2015. Organizations that want to win this years war for talent will need a clear wellbeing value proposition. Read more: The Best Management Secrets for Impacting Employee Mental Health 6. Quiet quitting in the workplace threatens customer retention. ###Embeddable### According to the famous father of modern management, Peter Drucker, workplaces ultimately exist to create and serve customers. Unfortunately, in recent years, both employees and customers have been losing trust in their organizations and brands. Customer satisfaction and confidence are in decline. At the same time, only 29% of employees strongly agree that they take pride in the quality of products or services they deliver, and 23% strongly agree their organization delivers on its promises to customers. The failure to win employees trust and commitment is harming organizations ability to win and keep customers. This may be part of a broader societal trend toward greater distrust in institutions. However, there are organizations that still get this right -- theyve built high-trust organizations that deliver exceptional customer experiences. When these organizations are able to engage employees and make them feel connected to their culture, the payoff is a workforce thats four times as likely to take extreme pride in delivering the best possible products and services. Ultimately, organic growth is fueled by customer acquisition and retention, and the brands that build a strong, customer-focused workforce will be the ones to watch and emulate. Read more: Customer Brand Preference and Decisions: Gallups 70/30 Principle 2023s Biggest Challenge: Workplaces That Work for Employees, Employers and Customers It seems likely that for most organizations in 2023, workplace productivity will be a major hurdle to profitability and growth. The good news is that the data paint a clear path forward. Reinvigorating your company culture with a focus on employee engagement and wellbeing -- particularly through better manager support and training -- will have the biggest positive impact on our disrupted workplaces. In the new hybrid workplace, teams will have to learn to coordinate, collaborate and lead differently. Yet, engagement and wellbeing must still be the foundation of effective hybrid teams. Naturally, making better use of virtual collaboration tools, practices and workspaces will be important, but evolving how you work will ultimately come down to strong leadership, clear expectations, exceptional teamwork, helping people play to their strengths and regularly having meaningful performance development conversations. The best news is that we can learn to do this from organizations that have successfully built winning cultures and navigated major workplace disruptions. Decades of Gallups research on organizational performance teaches us this: Organizations dedicated to building a strong workplace culture that prioritizes employee engagement and wellbeing reap the rewards of better productivity, profitability and customer growth. They outperform their less engaged competitors -- especially during economic recessions. How is your organization preparing to build a better workplace in 2023? Lebanon police officers engaged in a car chase Thursday, Feb. 2 that left two police vehicles with significant damage. Officers arrested Dakotah Hodson, 25, on suspicion of attempt to elude police, DUII and reckless driving following Thursdays chase, a Lebanon Police Department news release said. Officers received reports of a driver operating a vehicle recklessly in a Lebanon Carls Jr. parking lot. The caller reported the driver going in circles and driving over a curb. Police found the vehicle a blue Mazda Protege and tried to conduct a traffic stop. Hodson allegedly fled westbound on Airport Road, according to the Lebanon Police Department, and then traveled north through residential areas and then south on Stoltz Hill Road. Officers pursued the vehicle onto Cascade Drive where they deployed spike strips. Hodson kept driving, according to police, and eventually rammed into two Lebanon police cars as officers were attempting to position their patrol vehicles to stop Hodson. An officer used a patrol vehicle to push the Mazda to the side of the road near Central Avenue and Oregon Street, forcing it to a stop. Officers arrested Hodson, with whom LPD has had multiple previous contacts, according to the news release. Oregon State Police and the Linn County Sheriffs Office assisted. The investigation is ongoing, and anyone with information is asked to contact Sgt. Joseph Staub at 541-258-4310. WASHINGTON (AP) What in the world was that thing? The massive white orb that drifted across U.S. airspace this week and was shot down by the Air Force over the Atlantic on live television Saturday triggered a diplomatic maelstrom and blew up on social media. China insists the balloon was just an errant civilian airship used mainly for meteorological research that went off course due to winds and had only limited self-steering capabilities. The United States says it was a Chinese spy balloon without a doubt. Its presence prompted Secretary of State Antony Blinken to cancel a weekend trip to China that was aimed at dialing down tensions that were already high between the countries. The Pentagon says the balloon, which was carrying sensors and surveillance equipment, was maneuverable and showed it could change course. It loitered over sensitive areas of Montana where nuclear warheads are siloed, leading the military to take actions to prevent it from collecting intelligence. A U.S. Air Force fighter jet shot down the balloon Saturday afternoon off the Carolina coast. Television footage showed a small explosion, followed by the balloon slowly drifting toward the water. An operation is underway to recover the remnants. A look at what's known about the balloon crossing the U.S. and what isn't. It's a bird, it's a plane, it's a ... spy balloon It took just one shot Picking up the pieces Spy balloons have a history More on this story: VACAVILLE, Calif., Feb. 03, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- February is National Career Technical Education (CTE) Month, and the City of Vacaville joined the celebration by hosting a field trip for 58 Vacaville high school students February 3. The field trip included several locations around Vacaville and Solano County to explore advanced manufacturing and biotechnology. Every February, the Association for Career and Technical Education encourages communities to celebrate CTE Month, to raise awareness of the role that CTE has in readying learners for college and career success. This is also a time when the City of Vacaville recognizes and celebrates the contributions and achievements of community CTE partners including Solano Community College (SCC) and The Workforce Development Board of Solano County. This field trip is an excellent opportunity for Vacavilles young people to explore advanced manufacturing and biotechnology first-hand, said Don Burrus, Director of Economic Development Services for the City of Vacaville. We are excited to give our students this unique learning experience during National Career Technical Education Month and to share opportunities available to them right here in their own community. Not only does this set our students up for success, but it also supports the local, organic growth and expansion of our talent pipeline and attracts more industries. The adventure began at the SCC Advanced Manufacturing Lab where students had an opportunity to program CNC (Computer Numerical Control) equipment which plays a pivotal role in manufacturing. The SCC certificate and degree program trains students on electrical and mechanical components used in manufacturing systems. The program offers a great solution for students to get into higher level jobs, said Douglas Green, Advanced Manufacturing Instructor with SCC. Students get a lot of hands-on training working on real projects, learning how to troubleshoot and problem solve. Almost all of our students, if they're not already working, receive several competing job offers to go right to work. Moving next to Wunder-Bar, students experienced firsthand the shift from learning environment to real world manufacturing. Wunder-Bar manufactures food and beverage dispensing systems. A leader in the industry, they pride themselves on innovation, custom product development, quality and top-notch service. Career and Technical Education is critical to meeting the workforce needs, said Emmalie Hawes, Director of Human Resources West Coast, Foodservice West with Wunder-Bar. Careers in advanced manufacturing are not only in high demand, but they also lead to highly successful careers. As a long-standing business in the community, we are dedicated in advancing the cause. Next on the itinerary, students visited the Nut Tree Airport in Vacaville for a tour of the SCC Aeronautics Center where they learned about Airframe and Power Plant Maintenance. The program equips students with practical and theoretical knowledge in basic maintenance techniques, and special requirements of airframe and powerplant work. Upon conclusion, students are eligible to take the Federal Aviation Administration written oral and practical examination for airframe or powerplant license. Creating the connection from education to practice, students then visited ICON Aircraft in Vacaville who provided a tour of their aircraft production facility and an opportunity for the students to meet the technicians who build the amphibious light-sport aircraft. ICON takes pride in its aircraft design and is very proud to invite the local community to see the great work that we do in designing the best light aircraft with the first ever spin resistant seal of approval from the FAA, shared Maria Odena Head of ICONs Human Resources. A career in manufacturing typically gives most individuals a hands on experience working with exciting new technologies or products, added Andrew Mesias, ICONs Senior Manager at the Aircraft Completion Center. The day was concluded with biomanufacturing which included a tour of the Solano College Vacaville Campus California Biomanufacturing Education Center. The $34 million Center is equipped with state-of-the-art technology to further new education opportunities and is one of 15 community colleges in California that offers a Bachelor of Science degree. The students can come in, and depending on their personal circumstances, can exit into a high tech, high quality, high potential for upward mobility career, said Michael Silva, Professor with the Solano Community College Biotechnology Program. We have a near 100% placement rate and are trying to increase the pipeline and the number of students who are taking our program with a high school to Ph.D. pathway with multiple entry and exit points. The final business tour at Vacavilles RxD Nova Pharmaceuticals created the link between classroom and career. Students were able to see how a biomanufacturing facility operates and the types of careers available in the industry. Students learned the concept of biological drugs and how they differ from chemical drugs, as well as the application of biological drugs in clinical treatment. RxD Nova Pharmaceuticals is an emerging biotechnology and biomanufacturing company, shared Dr. W Shen, Chief Operating Officer at RxD Nova Pharmaceuticals. We support Vacavilles Career Technical Education program because we want to help Vacaville's youth grow. Vacaville has long been the center of biomanufacturing in California. We need to help encourage younger, talented students to join the industry and support the development of biomedicine. The City of Vacaville has become a leader in the life-science market with a robust Biotech Strategy and a Biotechnology Fast-Track Program committing the City to processing Planning entitlements in 100 days or less. It is not just about available and affordable land; Vacavilles prime location and talent pipeline have created the perfect ecosystem. Sharing the exciting career opportunities with local high school students offers each of them a wide variety of options right in their own backyard and secures a future in this rapidly growing field for generations to come. Contact: Don Burrus Director of Economic Development Services 707.449.5611 Don.Burrus@cityofvacaville.com Photos accompanying this announcement are available at: https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/611d209a-2ff8-4ab6-8ec8-962602aec0ee https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/13e5bf96-bd62-49c5-9bb9-e6f73c4dc851 https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/b7e90009-e8cd-4e06-a3d3-3bd6f8eeefd6 https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/f1495acc-f00d-4d95-956c-495808b95433 SAN FRANCISCO, Feb. 04, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Hagens Berman urges Silvergate Capital Corporation (NYSE: SI) investors who suffered significant losses to submit your losses now. Expanded Class Period: Nov. 11, 2020 Jan. 5, 2023 Lead Plaintiff Deadline: Feb. 6, 2023 Visit: www.hbsslaw.com/investor-fraud/SI Contact An Attorney Now: SI@hbsslaw.com 844-916-0895 Silvergate Capital Corporation (NYSE: SI) Securities Class Action The complaint alleges that Defendants made false and misleading statements to investors by repeatedly touting Silvergates robust compliance framework (including its anti-money laundering and customer identification programs) as a foundation for its growth and by repeatedly assuring investors that it maintained sufficient liquidity to cover inflows and outflows on its platform. The complaint further alleges that Silvergates lax compliance practices enabled customers to engage in large scale criminal activities, including an egregious fraud perpetrated by FTX and Alameda Research and massive money laundering operations and, therefore, Silvergate did not comply with all applicable laws. Moreover, Silvergate did not maintain sufficient liquidity to protect against a bank run. Investors began to learn the truth on Nov. 7, 2022, when Silvergate suddenly and without explanation announced demotion of its Chief Risk Officer. Over the ensuing months, news continued to emerge about Silvergates exposure to FTX and Alameda and the companys lax compliance. By Dec. 5, 2022, Senator Elizabeth Warren sent a letter to Silvergate CEO (Alan Lane) demanding information about the companys relationship with FTX and Alameda from Silvergate CEO (Alan Lane). According to Senator Warren, your bank appears to be at the center of the improper transmission of FTX customer funds. Then, on Jan. 5, 2023, Silvergate disclosed that the collapse of FTX led to a run on its subsidiary Silvergate Bank involving massive withdrawals totaling $8.1 billion (or 68% of deposits held as of Sept. 30, 2022) that necessitated the companys sale of illiquid securities for a loss of over $700 million and short term borrowings of $4.3 billion from Federal Home Loan Banks. These events drove the price of Silvergate shares crashing lower. Were focused on investors losses and proving Defendants lied about the sufficiency of Silvergates controls to guard against illegal activity and to protect deposits from misappropriation, said Reed Kathrein, the Hagens Berman partner leading the investigation. If you invested in Silvergate and have significant losses, or have knowledge that may assist the firms investigation, click here to discuss your legal rights with Hagens Berman. Whistleblowers: Persons with non-public information regarding Silvergate should consider their options to help in the investigation or take advantage of the SEC Whistleblower program. Under the new program, whistleblowers who provide original information may receive rewards totaling up to 30 percent of any successful recovery made by the SEC. For more information, call Reed Kathrein at 844-916-0895 or email SI@hbsslaw.com. About Hagens Berman Hagens Berman is a global plaintiffs rights complex litigation law firm focusing on corporate accountability through class-action law. The firm is home to a robust securities litigation practice and represents investors as well as whistleblowers, workers, consumers and others in cases achieving real results for those harmed by corporate negligence and fraud. More about the firm and its successes can be found at hbsslaw.com. Follow the firm for updates and news at @ClassActionLaw. SAN FRANCISCO, Feb. 04, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Hagens Berman urges F45 Training Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: FXLV) investors who suffered significant losses to submit your losses now. Defined Class: Purchasers in F45 Training Holdings, Inc. July 16, 2021 IPO Lead Plaintiff Deadline: Feb. 6, 2023 Visit: www.hbsslaw.com/investor-fraud/FXLV Contact An Attorney Now: FXLV@hbsslaw.com 844-916-0895 F45 Training Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: FXLV) Securities Class Action: In connection with F45s IPO the company touted its business model as a Predictable, Asset Light Model Driving Rapid Growth and claimed that [f]or the majority of franchises that we sell, we receive an upfront payment from the franchisee. In addition, as recently as May 16, 2022, F45 assured investors that it had secured a $250 million line of credit that it could extend to franchisees to secure its target of 1,000 new studio openings in 2022. According to the complaint, Defendants made false and misleading statements or failed to disclose in the IPO offering documents material adverse facts about F45s business, operations, and prospects. Specifically, the complaint alleges that, unknown to investors, F45s rapid growth strategy was unsustainable, reliant on, inter alia, franchisees opening multiple locations in a short period of time and/or dependent on franchisees who required near 100% financing of their operations to open for business. Doubts about F45s representations emerged on July 26, 2022, when F45 announced that: (1) it slashed its financial guidance by about 50%; (2) its 2022 net studio openings would be over 50% less that promised (i.e. between 350 and 450 vs. 1,000); (3) the $250 million credit line will not be available; (4) its CEO (Adam Gilchrist) left his position more than a month beforehand (on June 24, 2022); and, (5) it is firing approximately 110 employees. This news sent the price of F45 shares crashing 61% lower on July 27, 2022. Were focused on investors losses and proving F45 misled investors about the scalability of its model and whether there was actual $250 million in committed funding available for franchisees, said Reed Kathrein, the Hagens Berman partner leading the investigation. If you invested in F45 and have significant losses, or have knowledge that may assist the firms investigation, click here to discuss your legal rights with Hagens Berman. Whistleblowers: Persons with non-public information regarding F45 should consider their options to help in the investigation or take advantage of the SEC Whistleblower program. Under the new program, whistleblowers who provide original information may receive rewards totaling up to 30 percent of any successful recovery made by the SEC. For more information, call Reed Kathrein at 844-916-0895 or email FXLV@hbsslaw.com. About Hagens Berman Hagens Berman is a global plaintiffs rights complex litigation law firm focusing on corporate accountability through class-action law. The firm is home to a robust securities litigation practice and represents investors as well as whistleblowers, workers, consumers and others in cases achieving real results for those harmed by corporate negligence and fraud. More about the firm and its successes can be found at hbsslaw.com. Follow the firm for updates and news at @ClassActionLaw. One of the mistakes that the outside world makes is to think that their enemies should be our enemies. This infamous statement was made by the late South African (SA) Statesman Nelson Mandela during his trip to the United States (US) in June 1990, just months after being released from prison. He had been asked why he embraced Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat, Libyan leader Colonel Muammar Gadhafi and Cuban President Fidel Castro (all three are now deceased) who were accused by the US of supporting or encouraging international terrorism. Mandela made it clear that our attitude toward any country is determined by the attitude of that country toward our struggle When told by the interviewer that his responses would not be well received by other Americans, especially Jews, Mandela, after first having expressed sympathy with the struggle of the Jewish people, responded: That does not mean that the enemies of Israel are our enemies. Anyone who changes his principles, depending on who he is dealing with, is not a man who can lead a nation. What Mandela faced at that time and the responses he gave could best define the nature of geopolitics. One seeks not to complicate things by going into the many meanings of what geopolitics is, but strive to be simplistic by referring to it in what the Britannica says it is international politics. Every countrys role in the arena of international politics is determined largely, if not entirely, by its foreign policy. Struggle What Mandela was also alive to, was that in as much as he did not want to dump those countries that had supported the struggle against the apartheid regime, he did not have to make enemies with the US. While not making the outside worlds enemies the enemies of SA, he also did not want to make the outside world the enemies of SA. He had to play that balancing act. Even today, that is how SA approaches the international political arena. The attitude of SAs foreign policy, as espoused by Mandela, can be likened to that of the Kingdom of Eswatini, which can be traced back to King Sobhuza II. The same balancing act applies. Eswatinis behaviour in geopolitics is guided by its foreign policy, which, as stated in government documents, is rooted in the over-riding desire and commitment to non-interference in the political affairs of other nations. It is also the belief of this nation to cultivate good neighbourliness and peaceful coexistence with other nations through the policy, Anginasitsa (I have no enemy), a true depiction of what diplomacy is about, reads the foreign policy statement. Peace and security are outlined as being among the pillars of this foreign policy as they are prerequisites for sustainable development and economic longevity and prosperity, not only for the local or national environment, but also at continental and global levels. At the core of this outlook is the policy of Anginasitsa (I have no enemy), which is deeply rooted in the principle of good neighbourliness and peaceful co- existence for countries in the immediate neighbourhood and beyond. This is inspired by the national spirit of emaSwati to commit to peaceful dialogue, as the first option in addressing subversive and competing interests, and to prevent the emergence of full-blown conflict, further reads the foreign policy statement.Eswatini lists the aims of the peace pillar as follows: Promotion of peaceful dialogue at national level; promotion of peaceful dialogue at international level; promotion of early warning mechanisms; peaceful resolution of conflicts and disputes; and participation and enhancement of capacity for regional, continental and global cooperation on sustainable development. Non-Aligned The I have no enemy approach to international politics can also be the reason why Eswatini is part of the 120 countries that are members of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM). NAM was founded in 1961 with the view of advancing interests of developing countries in the context of Cold War confrontation. In its first three decades, the movement played a crucial role in decolonisation, formation of new independent States, and democratisation of international relations. NAM builds its work on ten Bandung principles, including: Respect for the sovereignty, equality and territorial integrity of all states; rejection of the possibility of an unconstitutional change of government, as well as external attempts to change the regime of government; the preservation of the inalienable right for each State is free, without interference from outside, to determine its political, social, economic and cultural system; refusal from aggression and direct or indirect use of force; non-application of any unilateral economic, political or military measures. At the United Nations (UN), one of the countries that has recorded the most absent vote when faced with the task of choosing to side with one nation over the other is Eswatini. Voting at the UN is most times determined by alliances, but because Eswatini is a non-aligned State it chooses not to participate in such balloting. Take for instance in December 2017, when there was a vote of the decision by the US to recognise Jerusalem as the Israels capital. When the day for voting came, Eswatini was absent. This, as the then minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Mgwagwa Gamedze, explained, was in line with the kingdoms foreign policy of being a non-aligned State. Every country has its own policies. Our policy is that all things should be resolved peacefully; thats the foreign policy that guides us, Gamedze said. He said the absent vote was as pertinent as the yes vote, therefore, Eswatini did participate in the voting process by being absent. Resolution He likened this to someone who was being asked his name but chose to remain silent: Thats an answer. Even though you didnt get the answer you were looking for but you did get an answer. The answer is that I dont want to give you my name. In short, all the countries voted. Those that voted for the resolution were counted, so were those that voted against the resolution as well as those who abstained and those that were absent. That means we also voted. This is a clear vote that is known by the UN. Soon after the Jerusalem vote, Eswatini was re-admitted into the African Growth and Opportunities Act (AGOA) from which the kingdom had been removed. So, clearly, Eswatinis foreign policy stance worked. Finding your way through the terrain of geopolitics is, and always has been, a tricky task that requires a balancing act all the time, hence Eswatini considers no country as an enemy. To some, this form of international diplomacy is a sign of cowardice. One country that has faced this cowardice tag is Ireland, which has maintained a longstanding principle of neutrality in international affairs. This has prevented the country from participating in international conflicts, mostly of a military nature. This neutrality stance is, however, not provided for in the Constitution. But there have been calls from some lawmakers to change this. Last year, there was a proposal to hold a referendum on codifying the neutrality into the Irish Constitution. However, this proposal was rejected after government parties voted against the motion. The party People Before Profit, which proposed the initiative, described the neutrality principle as having come seriously under attack from successive governments. Given the policys long-standing and overwhelming support, many people mistakenly think the stance is already constitutionally protected, Barrett argued. For Eswatini, the Anginasitsa mantra is somehow, not explicitly, outlined in Section 69 of the Constitution where the Foreign Policy Objectives are outlined.This Section reads: In its dealings with other nations, the Government shall promote and protect the interests of Swaziland; seek the establishment of a just and equitable international economic and social order; promote respect for international law, treaty obligations and the settlement of international disputes by peaceful means; be opposed to all forms of domination, racism and other forms of oppression and exploitation. The Section adds: Swaziland shall actively participate in international and regional organisations that stand for peace and for the well-being and progress of humanity. Objectives These objectives speak to neutrality in the sense that Eswatini shall engage with every country in a manner that promotes peace. The UN defines neutrality as the legal status arising from the abstention of a State from all participation in a war between other States, the maintenance of an attitude of impartiality toward the belligerents, and the recognition by the belligerents of this abstention and impartiality. This explains Eswatinis Anginasitsa mantra. The UN says neutrality is critically important for the UN to gain and maintain the confidence and cooperation of all in order to operate independently and effectively, especially in situations that are politically charged. Eswatinis foreign policy approach, therefore, aligns with the manner the UN functions. Resolution 71/275 of the UN underlined that some States national policies of neutrality can contribute to the strengthening of international peace and security and play an important role in developing mutually beneficial relations among countries of the world. The UN recognises that such national policies of neutrality are aimed at promoting the use of preventive diplomacy, which is a core function of the UN and occupies a central place among the functions of the secretary-general. As a result the UN General Assembly decided to declare December 12 the International Day of Neutrality, and called for marking the day by holding events aimed at enhancing public awareness of the value of neutrality in international relations. Anginasitsa (I have no enemy), says Eswatini. GH comedy giants for Valentine Laughter Gifty Owusu-Amoah Showbiz News Feb - 04 - 2023 , 09:36 The National Theatre of Ghana will surely shake to its foundations with peal of merry laughter when it plays host to The Valentine Laughter Show on Sunday, February 12. And one will not be wrong for saying that because some of the biggest names of GH comedy will come together to distribute laughter with love to patrons. Organised by Image Bureau since 2020, this yearsThe Valentine Laughter Show will see comedians such as Funny Face, Jacinta, Foster Romanus, Clemento Suarez, Lekzy Decomic and OB Amponsah join forces to bring the house down. The mention of Funny Face adds some good spice to the show considering that he has been away for a long time and has been missed on stage. Even though he broke his silence with an appearance on Lekzy Decomics Too Cute To Be Mute last September, a good number of comedy enthusiasts have been calling for an encore of the act that entailed funny tales of his mental health challenges. It is therefore not too surprising that he has become the subject of attraction at the upcoming show, perhaps with a guarantee of guests enjoying more humorous tales on his experience. In a chat with Graphic Showbiz, CEO of Image Bureau, George Quaye encouraged patrons to come and experience this years The Valentine Laughter show with performances from the best in the comedy game. The laughter merchants are performing so I am encouraging patrons to come and laugh their stress away, and also experience some magic, music and win some exciting prizes from our partners. Every year, we celebrate this day by showing the people around us how much we love and care for them. It is a day when we all show our love for the ones we care about and for the ones who are very special to us. Bringing laughter to our special ones very much counts as well, he stated. MOGMusic marks 10th New Wine Concert in March Kofi Duah Showbiz News Feb - 04 - 2023 , 17:07 It seems like only yesterday but Gospel musician MOGMusics annual event, New Wine Concert is 10 years old and he promises to celebrate in grand style on March 23 at the Oil Dome of the Royal House Chapel in Accra. Once again, he will give patrons to the concert the time of their lives as they soak in edifying songs and at the same time worship and praise God. This years edition will feature Vicky Frimpong from UK, Ohemaa Mercy, Kofi Owusu Peprah, Uncle Ato, Piesie Esther, Ella Duncan Williams and other surprise acts. Speaking in an interview with Graphic Showbiz, the Be Lifted hitmaker said he cannot believe it is a decade already and this years concert is more like a celebration of something he started small but has grown to be very big. First of all, I want to thank God for how far He has brought New Wine Concert and secondly to the musicians who have featured in the previous editions. A big thank you to the fans who always come in their numbers to make the event what it has become now. All these people have contributed to the growth of the concert and I cant say thank you enough for the support, the multiple award- winning musician said. In its 10th edition one should expect nothing but the best at the New Wine Concert and MOGMusic says he is going all out to thrill patrons to good music and exceptional performance. I believe we are going to have a night full of worship and praises. With these wonderful artistes on bill, I am so confident this years is going to be the best. We have also invited other great gospel musicians from Nigeria to join in the celebration, he said Previous editions of New Wine Concert has featured artistes such as Donnie Mclurkin (USA), Joe Mettle, Akesse Brimpong, Daughters of Glorious, Micheal Stuckey (USA) among others. Born Nana Yaw Boakye, MOGmusic is credited with songs such as Hallelujah, Nobody, Living God, Grace, Your Presence, Elohim, Yesu, Mala, Hosanna, I Am Blessed, Awesome God, God Of Miracles among others. Where do we go when trouble brews? Dr Enyonam Canice Kudonoo Opinion Feb - 04 - 2023 , 09:39 The Ghanaian society is made of both good and bad people living together in communities. To protect the good from being attacked and molested by the bad, law enforcement agencies are established. The law enforcement agencies are equipped with needed resources and laws promulgated to empower them to secure public safety, combat crimes of all sorts and promote peace in society. However, the agencies mandated to implement law and order are unable to effectively identify and manage the few bad lots. It has become extremely difficult to identify the right people within the law enforcement agencies to whom crimes or hideout for criminals should be reported. The possibility of that individual confiding in the criminal in question or the accomplice in uniform may be high. Hence the outcry where do we go? Stories abound in local communities, as well as the print and electronic media about the depravities in such agencies. These activities include terrorism, murder and extortion by the same people mandated and equipped to protect the members of the community. Officials tend to connive with criminals to commit heinous crimes in communities, rendering people helpless and in fear. Where then are victims expected to seek redress? Is it to the same professionals who falsely incriminate people and extort? Or the community members who betray whistleblowers to criminals? How safe are citizens? This paper draws attention to peculiar incidences that put the security situation and trust in law enforcement agencies in Ghana at risk, while appreciating the majority good professionals who work around the clock to promote law and order. Public trust in law enforcement agencies Trust, in the perspective of this article, refers to the interactive relationship between citizens and officers of state security institutions. Ben Bradford and Jonathan Jackson in their research Trust and confidence in the police: A conceptual review, opined that trust has a lot to do with personal actions of the relationship dynamics among people. Also, Francis Boateng (Public Trust in The Police: Identifying Factors That Shape Trust in The Ghanaian Police) postulated that law enforcement agencies can gain public trust if members perform their duties with fair-mindedness, impartially, professionalism and firmness without fear or favour. The outcome of Gerald Dapaah Gyamfis research (Exploring public trust in policing at a community in Ghana), revealed that people have had past bitter experiences where reprisal attacks were meted out to them for whistleblowing to law enforcement agencies. This situation may not be generalised to the larger number of law enforcement agencies; however, attention needs to be drawn to the authorities concerning the possibility of recurrence in such agencies. Although law enforcement agencies have achieved great results in their attempts to protect the citizenry, negative actions of a minority few among them thwart their efforts. Therefore, it is important for them to work assiduously to earn trust from the public by implementing mechanisms that facilitate the culling of the few bad lots that tarnish the agencys image from within. If informants fear of reprisals from criminals are alleviated and they are assured of protection, trust will be gained. Some stories It is prudent to share a few stories to justify the fear of insecurity. Although these stories are publicly discussed and some debunked with rejoinders to prove otherwise, the situation remains the same because the public is unconvinced. The first story selected for this article is the publication in the New Crusading Guide Online on May 27, 2021. The publication was titled: 5 Police Officers Detained for Allegedly Extorting GHc 38,000 From 2 People. The first victim claimed to be in an Uber vehicle on his way from Madina to the airport around 2 a.m. when five armed policemen stopped the vehicle, accused him of being a fraudster, let of the driver and asked that an amount of GHc 20,000 be transferred into a mobile wallet. A similar situation occurred the same day at 11 p.m. off the Atomic-Madina Road at 11:23 p.m. The victim, who drove an unregistered Mercedes Benz, was stopped by three armed policemen who searched his car, accused him of being a cyber-fraudster and arrested him. They escorted him to the Silver Star Towers and coerced him to withdraw an amount of GHc 20,000 from an ATM for them. There are other stories of this nature occurring recently. Consequently, it has become scary to drive at night. Who are these armed people in uniform terrorising people at night? What can be done to stop them from committing these heinous crimes? What must be done to increase public confidence in law enforcement agencies? Could alleviation of informants fear of reprisals contribute to gaining public trust? This calls for conversations among the citizenry to generate ideas for minimising the occurrence rate of such phenomena. The writer is a lecturer at Ashesi University, Accra Pope Francis on pilgrimage of peace to DR Congo, South Sudan International News Feb - 04 - 2023 , 09:21 Pope Francis last Tuesday embarked on a six-day visit to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and South Sudan, two fragile African nations, which are often forgotten by the world, where protracted conflicts have left millions of refugees and displaced people grappling with hunger. Pope Francis visit to the two African nations marks his 40th Apostolic Journey abroad, and the fifth, to Africa. Both countries have large Catholic populations and are rich in natural resources DRC in minerals and South Sudan in oil but beset with poverty and strife with the DRC being the second-largest country in Africa after Algeria. Half of the population The January 31-February 5 visit to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and South Sudan takes the 86-year-old Pope to places where Catholics make up about half of the populations and where the Church is a key player in health and educational systems, as well as in democracy-building efforts. In 2015, he went to Kenya, Uganda and the Central African Republic and in 2017, he visited Egypt. Then, in March 2019, he made an Apostolic Journey to Morocco and later to Mozambique, Madagascar and Mauritius in September 2019. The 86-year-old had to postpone the trip last year after suffering knee problems. But he was determined to undertake the visit, which will bring to 10 the number of African countries he has so far visited. His trip to the DRC will be the first papal visit since Pope John Paul in 1985 when the country was then called Zaire. 95 million people In the Democratic Republic of Congo, close to half of its 95 million people are Catholics. And for many people, the church functions like the states. DRC has the highest number of Catholic health centres in Africa and its bishops have a lot of social and political influence. So the conflicts there and in South Sudan are really at the core of this visit. And the Pope has called this his pilgrimage of peace. The Argentine-born pontiff made his first trip to Africa in November 2015, with a six-day visit to Kenya, Uganda and Central African Republic (CAR). On the first day of his apostolic journey, in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo, Pope Francis denounced the "poison of greed", which was driving conflicts in Africa, saying the rich world had to realise that people were more precious than the minerals in the earth beneath them. Tens of thousands of people cheered as he travelled from the airport into the capital Kinshasa in his Popemobile, with some breaking away to chase it while others chanted and waved flags. But the joyous mood, one of the most vibrant welcomes of his foreign trips, turned sombre when Pope Francis spoke to dignitaries at the presidential palace. He condemned "terrible forms of exploitation, unworthy of humanity" in Congo, where vast mineral wealth had fuelled war, displacement and hunger. Hands off Africa "Hands off the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Hands off Africa. Stop choking Africa; it is not a mine to be stripped or a terrain to be plundered," Francis said. Congo has some of the world's richest deposits of diamonds, gold, copper, cobalt, tin, tantalum and lithium, but those have stoked conflict between militias, government troops and foreign invaders. Mining has also been linked to the inhumane exploitation of workers, including children and environmental degradation. "It is a tragedy that these lands, and more generally the whole African continent, continue to endure various forms of exploitation," the Pope said, reading his speech in Italian while seated. 5.7 million displaced An estimated 5.7 million people are internally displaced in Congo and 26 million face severe hunger, largely because of the impact of armed conflict, according to the United Nations and the Pope criticised rich countries for ignoring the tragedies unfolding in Congo and elsewhere in Africa. "One has the impression that the international community has practically resigned itself to the violence devouring it (Congo). We cannot grow accustomed to the bloodshed that has marked this country for decades, causing millions of deaths," he said. Tshisekedi made a similar point: "While the international community has remained passive and silent, more than 10 million people have been horribly killed." On Wednesday, Pope Francis celebrated Mass at a Kinshasa airport that drew more than a million people. He later met with victims of violence from the east. Trip to South Sudan Francis will stay in Kinshasa until Friday morning, when he will fly to South Sudan, another African country grappling with conflict and poverty and he will be accompanied for that leg of his journey by the Archbishop of Canterbury, leader of the global Anglican Communion, and by the Church of Scotland Moderator. The religious leaders have described their joint visit as a "pilgrimage of peace" to the world's youngest nation. South Sudan gained independence in 2011 from predominantly Muslim Sudan after decades of conflict. Two years later, inter-ethnic conflict spiralled into a civil war that killed 400,000 people. A 2018 deal stopped the worst of the fighting. An open-air Mass The atmosphere was jubilant on the second day of Pope Franciss visit to the Democratic Republic of Congo, as the pontiff celebrated an open-air Mass with a choir and a million faithful singing and dancing to church music. The Catholic Church is witnessing its fastest growth in Africa (recent statistics show 2.1 per cent growth between 2019 and 2020). Out of a global population of 1.36 billion Catholics, 236 million are African (20 per cent of the total). African Catholics are not simply growing in number. They are reinventing and reinterpreting Christianity. They are infusing it with new language and spiritual vibrancy through unique ways of worshipping God. Building comprehensive register on GH intangible cultural heritage: The case of Ghana Jollof Edith Mensah Feb - 04 - 2023 , 09:54 The Senegalese version of Jollof rice was officially recognised by UNESCO as an intangible heritage of humanity in December 2021. This in a way according to some, may put an end to the ongoing debate over Jollof rices origins and solidifying the West African nations claim as the true home of the rice delicacy. Though many expected that UNESCOs recognition of Senegal as the true home of jollof which is locally known there as Ceebujen will put an end to the long-standing jollof rice dispute between Ghana and Nigeria, it appears that is a mirage. Already, conversations about the global appeal of Ghana jollof is gaining steam with relevant stakeholders in the tourism industry such as the National Commission on Culture (NCC) shaping the direction of the discussion. The Director of Policy Planning, Research, Monitoring and Evaluation at the National Commission on Culture (NCC), Richardson Commey Fio, is advocating for the submission of Ghana Jollof to UNESCO for consideration as a component of intangible traditional legacy. In an interaction with the Daily Graphic, Mr Commey Fio pointed out that for a country that has a healthy obsession over its traditional foods and eager to promote and preserve them for future generations, it was crucial that stakeholders put in place plans to submit the traditional Ghana Jollof to UNESCO. The NCC Director expressed his fears about Ghana losing out big on the great fortunes the country stood to gain with such a recognition. Ghana prides itself as a country that values its traditional staples like Fufu, Banku, and Ampesi, among others. Our rice has developed into a modern delicacy which has gained global appeal and still maintains its enchantment of giving people a sense of identification and belonging and we must at all cost project it. Fortunately, Ghana as a state, party to the 2003 UNESCO Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage, can equally start a process to submit Ghana Jollof as an intangible cultural heritage of humanity, he said. Ghana Jollof The Ghanaian jollof, a traditional rice dish, is a much-loved festive food that is frequently served at weddings, parties, and other large gatherings. It is a vibrantly coloured red or orange meal with wonderful spice and rich and saucy beef (or other meat), fish and even eggs. For a long time, Ghana and Nigeria have debated who has the best jollof styles in (usually lighthearted) fashion. The argument is carried out on social media platforms, where both sides frequently post memes that contrast two similarly themed images, one of which is noticeably more attractive, depending on who created and shared the meme, one side will be tagged as "Nigerian jollof" and the other side as "Ghanaian jollof." According to a publication by Business Insider Africa, jollof has become a source of pride and cultural identity for the Senegalese. This certification by UNESCO is expected to positively impact the economy, particularly in tourism, agriculture, fishing and catering in the country. The latest development should be a wakeup call to both countries, particularly Ghana to take the right steps to develop a thorough record for such perceived traditional legacies. Touching on how both countries can make gains from this development, Mr Commey Fio reiterated the need for the two countries to document their traditional staples into an extensive register for future generations. Intangible Cultural Heritage He said Ghana currently has a large number of these intangible cultural heritages, including oral traditions, songs, knowledge of natural spaces, healing traditions, foods, holidays, beliefs, cultural practices, skills for making handicrafts, techniques for farming and raising cattle, traditional navigational knowledge, and cooking techniques, but there are only a few efforts being made to preserve them. The NCC Director called for a coordinated effort from all appropriate institutions, particularly a commitment of resources to register all of these traditional inheritance. Building a comprehensive inventory and register on Ghanas Intangible Cultural Heritage must be one of the major priorities of the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture. This is because, listing such assets for UNESCO recognition will go a long way to contribute to the growth of the economy of Ghana by directly boosting tourism, trade, agriculture, create employment as well as increasing internal and external knowledge exchange, he noted. Road to Discovery Mr. Commey Fio posited that to create a solid cultural inheritance, it will be necessary to identify the elements that serve the foundation of the populace's sense of pride and cultural identity. The majority of them, according to him, had not yet been identified, but there were dozens of them in Ghana that were worth documenting. He also emphasised the importance of institutional mandate fulfillment and financial commitment to guarantee Ghana's place on the world map. This is to say that, listing of a countrys intangible cultural asset for UNESCO recognition requires time and resources. It requires research, first of all, and a committed support from government through relevant ministries and agencies to follow through the process to get the intangible asset listed and recognised. The good news is that, the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture has obtained financial assistance from UNESCO for strengthening capacities to safeguard Intangible Cultural Heritage towards sustainable development, he added. MBABANE The Royal Eswatini Police Service (REPS) have come out to clarify the sequence of events that happened immediately after Human Rights Lawyer Thulani Maseko was assassinated. Maseko was murdered in a coldblooded assassination in front of his wife and two sons, at his parental home, KaLuhleko at Bhunya on Saturday January 21, 2023. He was shot two times in the head and once across the chest, with all three bullets piercing through his left side and landing next to the television set he was watching with his family, in the lounge. The REPS quashed the theory attributing Masekos assassination to State security agents. They further explained the reason behind their early arrival to the scene and unpacked how they handled the scene of crime. Masekos murder attracted international upheaval and different theories were presented by social media commentators and members of the mass democratic movement in the country. The police have not yet apprehended anyone for the gruesome murder and the international community has called for independent investigations. Narrated REPSs Chief Police Information and Communications Officer Superintendent Phindile Vilakati narrated the chronology order of events and said the police arrived within a 30-minute bracket after receiving the information. Vilakati was speaking during a live transmission of People and Places, a programme hosted by television presenter Qhawe Mamba on Yemaswati Channel, on Thursday evening. She said they received a call from the late Masekos wife, Tanele, from a cell-phone of one of the officers at Bhunya Police Station. The officer is attached under the Crime Investigations Department (CID) and Vilakati stated that Tanele took the number of the police officer during a previous investigation of a break-in, by thugs in one of Masekos shops in the area. She said since the officer was on duty during the day, he was able to relay the message to his superiors and the station commander immediately assigned two cars to the scene. One of the cars was under the CID department, while the other was under the general response. Swiftly We were fortunate that the cars had not gone out for other assignments and this was one of the reasons we were able to respond swiftly to the scene of crime. The fact that the call went straight to someone at Bhunya Police Station made it easy for us to respond to it at a reasonable time. It would have probably taken longer if we received the call through the hotline because they would then have to first check with the nearest police station, she stated. Vilakati was responding to a direct question on why were police officers were quick to respond as if they were there the whole time. She said it was unfortunate that some people seemed to opine that the officers that responded to the scene of crime were actually a part of the crime. She said police officers were servants of the people and they were aware that they should not harm anyone. Apprehend She added that in a case where the officers were on duty trying to apprehend a person and that person dies, they take accountability for that. She emphasised that there was no attempt to arrest Maseko or any presence of the police prior to his killing on the day. Vilakati added that the police officers arrived early at the scene because they knew where Masekos home was located from prior engagements with the family. According to us, we arrived at a reasonable time and you can note that we already knew where the homestead is located and it is not very far from the police station. Actually the distance is about five kilometres and you can make your own calculation that it would probably take a short amount of time to get there. However, since we had to take our working tools and change even our clothing since the brief said there was a shooting, we took less than 30 minutes to get there after receiving the call, she added. Vilakati further dispelled the connotation that a man in a bike gave an eyewitness account that the police were a part of the assassination plan since they were at the vicinity of the homestead when the murder happened. She said the man in a bike met the police officers along the way and he asked the second car which was driven by the CID officer whether they were going to Masekos home. Confirmed Vilakati said the officers confirmed and told the man that Masekos wife called them and he followed them back home. She challenged anyone who claimed to have evidence of an eyewitness account to report it. She indicated that they were not aware of anyone who was an eyewitness to the case and according to the police; the man in bike gave them an account of what he saw. Upon arrival at the homestead, the police officers went on and secured the scene of crime before making calls to the Manzini Police Headquarters for an expert to do forensic search. We then waited for some hours and it was during this period that the man in bike told us of a suspicious black car that was seen around the area minutes before the gunshots. Some police officers took the two cars and tried to search for the car. One went to the Bhunya route while the other searched towards the Manzini route and no car was seen, she said. Revealed Vilakati revealed that the man in a bike told them that the registration number of the black BMW began with NSD and he could not see the rest of the numbers since it was dark. Police from the Scenes of Crime and Serious Crime Units arrived and took over from the Bhunya Police Station officers after an hour. The two units are usually called in serious and bigger investigation and according to Vilakati they arrived and gathered all the evidence they could get from the scene and will present it when the time permits. Vilakati appealed to people with information leading to the arrest of the suspect to relay such crucial leads to Manzini Regional Crime Branch Officer (RCBO) Thabo Hlophe at 7606 8572. Maseko was buried on Sunday January 29, 2023 at KaLuhleko and our sister publication, The Times SUNDAY established in their investigation done at the scene, that Maseko was most likely murder by a trained assassin. Possible features of the murderer were outlined that he needed to have height and a bigger body to execute the assassination at the point where he was standing behind Maseko and his family. It was also revealed that he needed a special skill in accuracy and precision. While the mass democratic movement in the country has been calling for speedy investigations into the murder of the globally renowned lawyer, international organisations such as the United Nations (UN) amplified the plea.The Southern African Development Community (SADC) has also called for the immediate hosting of the national dialogue to quench the rising political agitation which has been blamed as the motive behind Masekos murder. Ghana Gas commences second processing unit Mary Anane-Amponsah Feb - 04 - 2023 , 10:03 Ghana National Gas Company (GNGC) has commenced the process of adding a second gas processing plant to increase the national processing capacity to 450 million standard cubic feet per day (mmscfd). The plant, to be known as Train Two, of the Gas Processing Plant (GPP), will be constructed at a cost of $700 million and comes with a nominal capacity of 150mmscfd, expandable to 300mmscfd. It will provide enough capacity for Ghana Gas to process incremental natural gas volumes from the Greater Jubilee and Tweneboa, Enyera and Ntomme (TEN) fields. Signing GNGC yesterday signed an implementation agreement with a consortium to pave the way for the execution of the project. The consortium includes the Integrated Logistic Bureau Ghana Limited and John Moore International Limited. The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Ghana Gas, Dr Ben K. D. Asante, signed on behalf of the processing company, while a representative of the consortium, Hilton John Mitchell, signed on behalf of the consortium. The project, sited at the west wing of the existing GPP Train 1 at Atuabo in the Western Region, is expected to be executed within 24 months. Other features The natural gas liquids (NGLs) will be fractionated into pure components such as propane, butane, pentane and stabilised into condensate components. The project will also include a storage facility, additional compressor package at Atuabo Mainline Compressor station and utilities and liquid waste treatment system. It is said to be critical in meeting the countrys energy demands and play a key role in the countrys industrialisation agenda. After signing the agreement, Dr Asante stated that the company was incorporated in 2011 with the mandate to gather, process, transport and market gas. We are here today because we want to expand our existing infrastructure to meet the demands of the economy, he said. Currently, we continue to process daily about 120mmscfd. We are extracting about 40 to 50 per cent of the inherent liquids of the raw natural gas supplied to us by our upstream partners. With this, we are able to generate close to 350 megawatts of power on a daily basis with the gas that comes from the Train 1, Dr Asante stated. Considering the importance of the new project to the economy, the Ghana Gas CEO said even with the first processing plant, the company was able to generate 300 tonnes of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) a day. So you can imagine how things will look when we go to the second processing plant, he added. Importance of new project The key difference between the two plants, Dr Asante added, was the usage of turbo expansion which would enable the company to extract more LPG from the raw gas. With this technology, we intend to double the liquid output that is currently on stream. So we are doubling LPG, condensers, etc. It is really significant, with our current operation, GNGC supplies close to 40 per cent of LPG we consume in the country, he stated. Dr Asante said when the second plant was completed, it would put an end to the importation of LPG and save the country a significant amount of foreign exchange. The country, the Ghana Gas CEO said, used 90 per cent of the gas produced for power generation and, therefore, the move would be a major boost in the power sector and end dumsor in the country. The gas project, Dr Asante added, would help in the production of fertiliser which was an essential commodity in agriculture and decrease its importation in the country. A Deputy Minister of Energy, Andrew Agyapa Mercer, assured the company of the governments continuous support to enable it execute its mandate effectively. Gas as transitioning fuel The Board Chairman of Ghana Gas, Kennedy Ohene Agyapong, noted that natural gas would undoubtedly become the key energy transition fuel for the country and as such, Ghana Gas was resolved to play a leading role in harnessing and diversifying natural gas utilisation for the socio-economic development of the country. The board chairman commended the staff for their zeal to achieve the milestone and ensure that the project materialised. Mr Agyapong also commended the consortium for expressing interest in the project and expressed the hope that all the necessary steps would be concluded for the smooth completion of the project. Great project For his part, Mr Mitchell said the project was a great one and needed to be celebrated. He added that with the resources and expertise put together as partners, the project would be executed on time and at a cost effective manner. We expect this to create approximately 1,500 direct and indirect jobs for the Atuabo enclave and also expect that it achieves the desired result of increasing labour and improving labour efficiency in the area, he added. Melcom rejects non-compliance claims over e-VAT Samuel Doe Ablordeppey Feb - 04 - 2023 , 08:46 The countrys largest retail outlet, Melcom, has stated that it is fully compliant and cooperative with the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA). Melcom said with the tacit support of the GRA, which virtually held its hands, the retail outlet had implemented the electronic Value Added Tax (e-VAT) across all its outlets across Ghana. It, however, said during the process of the implementation, there had been some areas of concern which the GRA team had been duly apprised of. In a petition to the Commissioner-General of the GRA, Melcom explained that it had held a meeting with the GRA team to agree on the way forward with timelines for the solution. The petition followed a visit by the GRA team to Melcom shops at Kasoa, Achimota and North Industrial Area, where the managers of the shops were picked up for the supposed non-compliance with e-VAT. The petition, which was copied to the Ministers of Finance, and Trade and Industry, and high-ranking officers of the GRA, stated that there had also been frequent application programming interface and other technical challenges, resulting in the failure to get e-VAT stamps on some of its invoices. These failures have been duly and regularly highlighted to both technical and non-technical teams as per the guidelines made available to us by the GRA team for immediate resolution, Melcom added. The petition said to ensure full compliance with laws of the land, the invoices were parallel updated into GRA portal, per the advice of the GRA team, once the issue was resolved. Demands The company expressed surprise that the GRA team accused the managers of the retail outlet and picked them up. The managers are said to have since been released. The petition demanded that the GRA stop the harassment of Melcom staff and inconvenience to our loyal customers. It also asked the GRA to instruct the concerned GRA team to look into the concerns raised by Melcom so that the agreed way forward could be achieved at the earliest. The retail shop, which markets some of the worlds most reputable brands, also urged the GRA to state the facts to the media so that there would not be further damage to the companys reputation. Appreciation Melcom expressed appreciation to the GRA for supporting the retail shop to implement e-VAT, saying it had been a good learning experience for both teams. It maintained that Melcom had been used by the GRA to lead the pilot project of implementing e-VAT, whereby all the learnings taken by the GRA team had been rolled out to others in the industry. The petition said while it appreciated the actions to plug the leakages by putting compliance as the first and foremost objective, it was important that the GRA addressed the concern areas with urgency. These unaddressed points cause a major challenge for the teams to work on data reconciliation between Melcoms server and GRAs server, and further troubleshoot the technical hitches, where need be, the petition stated. It said for a number of times it had drawn the attention of the authority to the challenges, stressing that branch downtime reported to GRA for the months of December 2022 and January 2023 have been attached for your ready reference. Attitudes about women running for elected office Getrude Ankah Nyavi Politics Feb - 04 - 2023 , 08:23 Back in 2012, I was seated in the waiting area of a private clinic watching television while waiting to be seen by the doctor. While watching, there was a news clip of Adwoa Safo campaigning to be elected Member of Parliament (MP). One of the nurses turned to me and remarked in Twi which I loosely translate here This is a mans job. Instead of staying home to take care of her children and her husband she is doing politics. That unfortunate remark illustrated one of the many examples of the social cost women face in trying to run for elected office. The fundamental question The Afrobarometer Survey has over the years captured Ghanaian attitudes about certain gender norms. Over five rounds (2005, 2012, 2014,2017 and 2022), Ghanaians were asked the extent to which they agreed or disagreed with the following statement - Statement 1: Men make better political leaders than women, and should be elected rather than women. Statement 2: Women should have the same chance of being elected to political office as men. In 2005, 83 per cent of Ghanaians agreed that women should have the same chance of being elected to political office as men. However, by 2012, that percentage had dropped to 70. Public attitudes would later improve between 2014 and 2022 where those agreeing that women should have the same chance of being elected to political office as men increased to 78 per cent. The National Commission for Civic Education, in election years, conducts a study called Matters of Concern to the Ghanaian Voter. From the information publicly available, the first of the studies was done in 2008. Starting in 2012, the study asked about the willingness of Ghanaians to vote for a female candidate as a MP as well as President. In 2012, 70 per cent said they were willing to vote for a female candidate as MP. The percentage remained unchanged significantly in the 2016 study (68 per cent) but improved significantly in 2020 with as many as 77 per cent saying they were willing to vote for a female candidate as MP. The same question was asked about the willingness to vote for a woman as President of Ghana. In 2012, only 50 per cent responded in the affirmative, increasing significantly to 59 per cent in 2016 and further increasing to 66 per cent in 2020. These statistics prove that overall, Ghanaians generally believe that women should have the same chance of being elected to political office as men. Additionally, they continue to show a willingness to vote for women candidates, although more so as an MP than as President. When women run for office So, what happens then when women run for office? In Afrobarometer Round 9, 2022, Ghanaians were asked three specific questions related to that. Table 1: Ghanaian perceptions of what happens when a woman runs for office|2022| If a woman in your community runs for elected office, how likely or unlikely is it that the following things may occur? Very likely Somewhat likely Somewhat unlikely Very unlikely A.She and her family will gain standing in the community 57% 29% 7% 7% B.She will be criticised, called names, or harassed by others in the community 15% 27% 25% 33% C.She will face problems with her family 14% 21% 25% 40% From the table above, the perception of Ghanaians when it comes to women who run for elected office can be summarised as follows- a) it improves her and her familys standing in the community; b) six out of 10 (58 per cent) believe it is somewhat/very unlikely she will be criticised, called names, harassed and c) seven out of 10 (65 per cent) believe it is unlikely she will face problems with her family. The findings look quite promising as most of the people state that it is very unlikely women will be criticised or face problems. Challenge for political parties There are still some concerns. From the National Commission for Civic Education survey I referenced, some of the reasons citizens give for why they are unwilling to vote for a woman as an MP or President is because women in high positions tend to be arrogant, disrespectful. A woman cannot cope with the pressures associated with holding public office, men can do a better job, and a woman cannot take bold decisions. Our political parties are the vehicles through which candidates seek elected office and must step up, if we are serious about our desire to see more women participate and get elected to office. Political parties must commit to devising specific ways that will lower the social cost for women who seek elected office. Upper Manya Krobo: Constituency with untapped potential Haruna Yussif Wunpini Politics Feb - 03 - 2023 , 14:39 The Upper Manya Krobo Constituency in the Eastern Region is blessed with the Volta Lake, which is man-made, which makes a compelling case for farming and fishing activities. The constituency situated in a Kroboland is endowed with arable land and the fisheries resource has, over the years, attracted many people from far and near who are engaged in fishing, farming and trading. Crops cultivated in the constituency, aside from Cassava, which is processed into gari, are maize, cocoyam, yam, sweet potato, vegetables and tree crops such as mangoes. Due to these activities, the Upper Manya Krobo Constituency, with Asesewa as its capital, has attracted fishers and farmers from Ada, Ningo, Battor, Mepe and Anlo areas among other places, with a very negligible number of the natives engaged in fishing activities. The lake has immensely helped in fishing at Akrusu-Saisi, Akotue-Tsreboana, Battorkope, Akorkorma-Sisi, Agbenyega-Poponya and Akateng being the major fishing community. However, the intermittent shortages of premix fuel continue to be a challenge for fishing in the area. Bad roads, the lack of potable water and a cassava processing factory to process the abundant cassava produced by farmers, which normally go rotten, are some of the challenges facing the people in the area. Location The Upper Manya constituency was carved out of the then Manya Krobo Constituency, with its capital at Odumase-Krobo in 2008. That also gave birth to the Upper Manya Krobo District with the capital at Asesewa, which has one of the oldest markets in the country, and has found its way into a passage in an old basic school textbook under the title, A Market Day at Asesewa. The constituency lies in the eastern part of the region, which is about 45 kilometres (Km) away from Koforidua, the regional capital, and an hour's drive between the two towns Koforidua and Asesewa. It has a voter population of 39,000, going by the 2020 general elections, out of a general population of 70, 676. Political dynamics The constituency, since its creation, has been voting for the National Democratic Congress (NDC) with the New Patriotic Party (NPP) winning the parliamentary seat once in the 2016 election, with Joseph Tetteh, popularly known as Joe Tee, annexing the seat, but the NDC recaptured it in the 2020 election. The current Member of Parliament (MP) for the area, Bismark Tetteh Nyarko, won the seat in the 2020 general elections, while the District Chief Executive (DCE) is Joe Sam. Visit A visit to the lakeside by the Daily Graphic last week Wednesday, revealed that some empty canoes had been berthed at the shores, with fishermen sitting beside their canoes idle. The Secretary of the local Boat Transport Association, Nicholas Tsornyake, in an interview with the Daily Graphic, said they did not get regular supply and required quantities of premix fuel. He said all that they had only lasted for a day's fishing on the Volta Lake. Mr Tsornyake explained that after exhausting their supplies, they had to obtain the commodity from middlemen at exorbitant prices, which made it uneconomical for fishing because they operated at a loss. He, therefore, appealed to the government to, as a matter of urgency, supply them with adequate quantity of the product to save them from the middlemen who sold the commodity to them at exorbitant prices. Mr Tsornyake said the middlemen normally sold seven gallons of the premix fuel to them between GH120 and GH150 instead of the actual price of GH65. He stated that the situation had arisen because, instead of the communitys premix fuel distribution committee giving out the commodity to the fishermen, that duty had been assigned to people not related to fishing. Most of the people supplied with the premix fuel are not fishermen, and when we report to the district assembly at Asesewa, nothing is done about it," Mr Tsornyake stated. The Chairman of the Inland Canoe Fishermen Council at Akateng, Ossom Asiah Tetteh Mausour, told the Daily Graphic that lack of the product had forced the fishing boat owners to berth their empty boats along the shores of the lake for long periods and that had seriously affected their earnings and their ability to cater for themselves and their dependants. He said lack of the product had also made it impossible for the boats to ferry livestock, particularly cattle, sheep, goats among other things across the lake to the Akateng market for sale. A fishmonger, who is also a boat owner, Joyce Ayittah, told the Daily Graphic that the shortage of the premix fuel had adversely affected the price of fish in the market. She said most of the fishmongers who bought GH1,000 worth of fish, after selling them at places such as Accra and other parts of the country, had to come back with half of that amount because they sold at a loss. The Dadematse of Akateng (community leader), Lawer Terkper, deplored the situation and said he had not been involved in the distribution of the premix fuel and that had made it impossible for the genuine fishermen to have the product. He pointed out that due to the inability of the fishermen to go fishing, fish had become so scarce that they had to depend on imported fish stored in cold stores. When contacted, the Chairman of the Premix Fuel Distribution Committee, Jeremiah Nyebu, declined to speak on the current shortage of the commodity. No One-District One-Factory A gari processing factory proposed under the One-District One-Factory (1D1F) initiative to be sited at Sekesua is yet to take off. When the Daily Graphic visited the site, it observed that the place has been overgrown with weeds with only the billboard on the site. A constituent, Bright Sogah, who was not happy about the delay in setting up the gari processing factory, said the site for the project, with an erected billboard, is now bushy with nothing on it. He wondered when that project would take off to enable gari traders to improve on their trading activities to better their livelihoods. He said the factory, if operationalised, would process tonnes of cassava to gari and that would enable cassava farmers in the area to earn meaningful incomes. This, he said, was due to the fact that cassava cultivation was one of the major food crops cultivated in the constituency. Concerns of Community leaders The Dadematse of Sekesua, Nene John Kumi, said what his people needed were social amenities such as clinics, potable water and decent classroom blocks. Tettey - Ku Gbadaji, was not happy that some of the communities which lacked potable water, health facilities and modern classroom blocks had not also been linked with good roads. DCE speaks The DCE for the district, Mr Sam, said the scarcity of Premix fuel had been a problem in all the fishing communities countrywide. According to him, people who were not in fishing deceived members of the Premix Fuel Distribution Committee that they were fishermen and managed to secure the product for sale at exorbitant prices, which needed to be stopped. He, however, indicated that he would see how best to make the product available in the required quantity for the fishermen at the actual price. Mr Sam said that the constituency had challenges and said the assembly had started rehabilitating the Asesewa - Sekesua Junction Road. On employment, he said a vast land had already been acquired at Sekesua to put up a gari processing factory, in line with the 1D1F initiative for the gari processors to do their business effectively. He appealed to the gari processors to be patient as the government was taking steps to bring into fruition the gari processing plant in the constituency to improve their lot. He assured the unemployed youth that when the factory starts work, it would create decent jobs for the youth, as well as the women in the area. MP assures The MP for the area, Mr Nyarko, told the Daily Graphic that his outfit promised the constituents a number of social amenities when campaigning for the seat in the 2020 general election. He said he had started fulfilling the campaign promises. According to him, recently, he started the construction of market sheds to provide shelter for gari traders at the Sekesua Market. Rehabilitation works Mr Nyarko indicated that his outfit had rehabilitated the seven - km Fefe-Kokoney Road, the 4.5km Akatawia - Sekesua Road and the construction of a maternity/child healthcare centre at the Anyaboni Resettlement Community. The law maker said he had also donated roofing sheets to roof a school building at Fefe, one of the communities in the constituency, which was destroyed by rainstorm, and to rehabilitate schools in communities such as Akonta, Takorase and Tubuorso among others. "I'm only two years in Parliament and that is too early for me to complete any capital intensive projects I have initiated. "A lot of such projects are ongoing at different communities in the constituency, which are at various stages of completion, and with different sources of funding ," the MP said. He said he was aware of the needs of the constituents, which included a gari processing factory, potable water and good roads. He explained that due to the fact that the provision of such social amenities were capital intensive, he would be looking for funding from other sources to augment his share of the District Assembly's Common Fund (DACF) to finance their construction. Mr Nyarko, however, was not happy about the continuous delay of the DACF, which he stated had not been forth-coming. That, the MP stated, had affected infrastructural development of the constituency and at the same time retarded the socio-economic development of the people in the constituency. The constituency has only one public senior high school (SHS) - Asesewa SHS- with a number of junior high and basic schools, primarily in the big towns such as Asesewa and Sekesua. On the health sector, it boasts of only one state-owned hospital - the Asesewa Government Hospital- taking care of about 70,676 inhabitants in the constituency. As it's usually the case with older flagships, prices drop once their successors launch and that's what Samsung did in India for its Galaxy S22 smartphones. However, only the smallest of the S22 family can be purchased at a discounted price, whereas the Galaxy S22+ is discontinued, while the Ultra is selling at its usual price. The vanilla Galaxy S22 now goes for INR 57,999 starting price, while the 256GB option will set you back INR 61,999. Originally, these cost INR 72,999 and INR 76,999, but of course, those were launch prices from a year ago. Those are the official prices on Samsung's own web store in India, but third-party retailers have them for even less. And as we already said, the S22+ is kind of hard to come by, suggesting that the whole S22 series will be around until stocks last and will soon be discontinued, so you better hurry. Even though it's a year-old flagship family, the Galaxy S22 is still pretty capable. In fact, one would argue that the new Galaxy S23 series offers a marginal upgrade at a higher cost. Moreover, Samsung's extended 4-year software support makes an even stronger case for purchasing the older flagships. Source The International Pilgrim Virgin statue of Our Lady of Fatima is now on Guam for the fifth pilgrimage to the island in the last 17 years. The statue, which was last on Guam in 2017, will also travel to the Philippines this month, according to a press release from the Archdiocese of Agana. It is the statue's first overseas trip since the pandemic. The statue represents the Blessed Virgin Mary and her miraculous appearance to three children in Fatima, Portugal in 1917. The Pilgrim Virgin statue of Our Blessed Mother has traveled the world since 1947 as part of a worldwide mission of peace. The statue arrived on Guam on Friday and was taken to St. Anthony Catholic Church in Tamuning, where an overnight vigil took place. Pilgrimage schedule Sunday, Feb. 5 Prayer Intention: From nuclear war, from incalculable self-destruction, from every kind of war, deliver us. Barrigada, San Vicente/San Roke : 7 a.m. arrival of statue, rosary and Holy Mass; 4 p.m. departure. : 7 a.m. arrival of statue, rosary and Holy Mass; 4 p.m. departure. Yigo, Our Lady of Lourdes: 5 p.m. arrival of statue and rosary; 6 p.m. Holy Mass; midnight departure. Monday, Feb. 6 Prayer Intention: From sins against the life of man from its very beginning, deliver us. Agafa Gumas, Santa Bernadita : 9 a.m. arrival of statue, rosary and Holy Mass; 2 p.m. departure. : 9 a.m. arrival of statue, rosary and Holy Mass; 2 p.m. departure. Dededo, Santa Barbara: 3p.m. arrival of statue, rosary, Holy Mass; midnight departure. Tuesday, Feb. 7 Prayer Intention: From hatred and from the demeaning of the dignity of the children of God, deliver us. Department of Corrections : 8 a.m. arrival, 11 a.m. departure. : 8 a.m. arrival, 11 a.m. departure. Department of Youth Affairs: Noon arrival; 3 p.m. departure. Noon arrival; 3 p.m. departure. Tumon, Blessed Diego Catholic Church: 5 p.m. arrival of statue, rosary, Holy Mass; midnight departure. Wednesday, Feb. 8 Prayer Intention: From every kind of injustice in the life of society, both national and international, deliver us. Skilled Nursing Unit : 8 a.m. arrival; noon departure. : 8 a.m. arrival; noon departure. Harmon, St. Andrew Kim Catholic Church: 4 p.m. arrival of statue, rosary, Holy Mass; 10 p.m. departure. Thursday, Feb. 9 Prayer Intention: Help us with the power of the Holy Spirit to conquer all sin: individual sin and the "sin of the world," sin in all its manifestations. Piti, Our Lady of Assumption : 7 a.m. arrival of statue, rosary, Holy Mass; noon departure. : 7 a.m. arrival of statue, rosary, Holy Mass; noon departure. Asan, Nino Perdido: 6:30p.m. arrival of statue, rosary, Holy Mass; midnight departure. Friday, Feb. 10 Prayer Intention: From readiness to trample on the commandments of God, deliver us. Hagatna, Dulce Nombre De Maria : 7a.m. arrival of statue, rosary, Holy Mass; noon departure. : 7a.m. arrival of statue, rosary, Holy Mass; noon departure. Hagat, Our Lady of Mount Carmel/Santa Ana : 1 p.m. arrival of statue, rosary, Holy Mass; 6 p.m. departure. : 1 p.m. arrival of statue, rosary, Holy Mass; 6 p.m. departure. Santa Rita, Our Lady of Guadalupe/Santa Rita: 6:30p.m. arrival of statue, rosary, Holy Mass; midnight departure. Saturday, Feb. 11 Prayer Intention: From attempts to stifle in human hearts the very truth of God, deliver us. Humatak, San Dionisio Church : 7 a.m. arrival of statue, rosary, Holy Mass; noon departure. : 7 a.m. arrival of statue, rosary, Holy Mass; noon departure. Malesso', San Dimas/Our Lady of the Rosary : 1 p.m. arrival of statue, rosary, Holy Mass; 6 p.m. departure. : 1 p.m. arrival of statue, rosary, Holy Mass; 6 p.m. departure. Inalahan, St. Joseph: 6:30 p.m. arrival of statue, rosary, Holy Mass; midnight departure. Sunday, Feb. 12 Prayer Intention: From the loss of awareness of good and evil, deliver us. Malojloj, San Isidro : 7 a.m. arrival of statue, rosary, Holy Mass; noon departure. : 7 a.m. arrival of statue, rosary, Holy Mass; noon departure. Talo'fo'fo', San Miguel : 1 p.m. arrival of statue, rosary, Holy Mass; 6 p.m. departure. : 1 p.m. arrival of statue, rosary, Holy Mass; 6 p.m. departure. Chalan Pago, Our Lady of Safe Journey: 6:30 p.m. arrival of statue, rosary, Holy Mass; midnight departure. Monday, Feb. 13 Prayer Intention: From sins against the Holy Spirit, deliver us, deliver us. Agana Heights, Our Lady of the Blessed Sacrament: 8 a.m. arrival of statue, rosary, Holy Mass; 4:30 p.m. departure. 8 a.m. arrival of statue, rosary, Holy Mass; 4:30 p.m. departure. Sinajanam St. Jude: 5 p.m. arrival of statue, rosary, Holy Mass; midnight departure. Tuesday, Feb. 14 Prayer Intention: Accept, O Mother of Christ, this cry laden with the sufferings of all individual human beings, laden with the sufferings of whole societies. Mongmong, Our Lady of the Waters: 7 a.m. arrival of statue, rosary; 11 a.m. Holy Mass; noon departure. Wednesday, Feb. 15 Prayer Intention: The sacrifice of the men and women of the armed forces to defend and protect life. Yona, Saint Francis: 8 a.m. arrival of statue, rosary, Holy Mass; 2 p.m. departure. 8 a.m. arrival of statue, rosary, Holy Mass; 2 p.m. departure. Ordot, San Juan Bautista: 3 p.m. arrival of statue, rosary, Holy Mass; 8 p.m. departure. Thursday, Feb. 16 Prayer Intention: The youth and young adults of our communities Prayer Intention: The unborn and victims of abortion and stem-cell researched experiments Maina, Purification of Our Lady : noon arrival of statue, rosary, Holy Mass; 4 p.m. departure. : noon arrival of statue, rosary, Holy Mass; 4 p.m. departure. Mangilao, Santa Teresita: 5 p.m. arrival of statue and rosary, 7 p.m. Holy Mass; midnight departure. Friday, Feb. 17 Prayer Intention: Those imprisoned by drugs, alcohol and other addictions Guam Memorial Hospital: 9 a.m. arrival; noon departure. Saturday, Feb. 18 Prayer Intention: For increase of vocations to the priesthood, religious life and diaconate. Tamuning, Saint Anthony: all day. Sunday, Feb. 19: Departure to Philippines. Prayer Intention: For the respect of life from the moment of conception to its natural death. Parts for the Ukudu Power Plant began their slow journey from Piti to Dededo Saturday evening, although the departure from the Port Authority of Guam appeared to be behind schedule. By 6:30 p.m., the transport equipment - which can be tracked live at poweronthemove.org, was still making its way down Cabras Highway toward Route 1. The equipment was scheduled to continue traveling up Marine Corps Drive throughout the night Saturday and early Sunday morning, arriving in Dededo by about 6 a.m. The self-propelled trailers loaded with parts travel at about 1 mph, meaning each trip will take 12 hours. On Friday, Department of Public Works Director Vince Arriola urged motorists to avoid Route 1 during the transport, and to refrain from gathering at the roadside to watch the move. Alternate routes are posted on the poweronthemove.org website. NHLANGANO Following police investigations into the hacked, doused with petrol and torched quartet; five people appeared in court facing four counts of murder and one of arson. The five are Ntsetselelo Nxumalo (32), Mfundo Casseria (26), Mlungisi Ndlovu (33), Mlungisi Nxumalo (38) and Sandile Nxumalo (34). All five are from Nkonka area under Chief Gasa waNgwane. They were part of a mob that attacked and killed four people who were suspected to be engaging in criminal activities in the area. On the charge of arson, it was said that the total damage caused was E22 340, wherein immovable property in the form of a house was set alight. The incident happened on Sunday night after a meeting that was held by residents discussing how they were going to deal with the criminal activities happening in the community. It was after that meeting that a mob went hunting for the people who were allegedly implicated in the crimes and were killed. Appeared In court yesterday, the five appeared before Magistrate Jabulani Maphalala and were represented by their attorney, Melusi Simelane. Public Prosecutor Mandla Dlamini had requested that the accused persons undergo a DNA test as well that they be sent back to Lavumisa Police Station to be brought back Monday. Simelane approved that the accused should undergo DNA test and opposed that they be sent back to Lavumisa Police Station. He told the court that the prosecutor did not cite valid reasons why they should be sent back, hence he was against it. Magistrate Maphalala concluded that they be taken to Matsanjeni Health Centre for swabs and that the accused persons be taken to His Majestys Correctional Services in Nhlangano. They are expected to return to court on Monday for remand. In court, it was noted that their family members came to give them moral support. Soon as the accused persons stepped out of court; the family members had a brief chat with them before they were loaded into a police van and taken away. The search for a missing diver continued Saturday with local and federal agencies combing the area where the man was last seen in Agana Bay. Crews from the Coast Guard, Navy and Guam Fire Department continue to search for the 35-year-old diver off Ricks Reef on the west side of Guam, U.S. Coast Guard Station Apra Harbor posted on its Facebook at about 10 a.m Saturday. The diver was diving with a colleague as part of a commercial contract to support telecommunications when the colleague reported him missing Thursday morning. He was last reported wearing a black wetsuit with orange fins, a rebreather and a spare oxygen tank. To help determine the best search area, Coast Guard crews have been launching datum marker buoys to assess undersea currents. On land, a joint incident command post was set up on Friday by the Navy and Guam Fire Department, Coast Guard and Guam Police Department at The Cove event space to search outside and inside the reef line where the diver was last known to be. Anyone with information on the shore should call 911. Vessels with information should call the U.S. Coast Guard Forces Micronesia/Sector Guam Joint Rescue Sub-Center at 671-355-4824. Crews from the Coast Guard, Guam Police Department, the Navy and Guam Fire Department searched for a missing diver Thursday, and the search is planned to continue throughout the night. On Thursday morning, the Coast Guard Command Center received a call about the missing 35-year-old man outside the reef line of Alupang Cove/Jimmy Dee's, according to Guam Fire Department Capt. Kevin Reilly. The diver was last reported wearing a black wetsuit with orange fins, a rebreather, and a spare oxygen tank. Anyone with information should call the U.S. Coast Guard Forces Micronesia/Sector Guam Joint Rescue Sub-Center at 671-355-4824. At 10:36 a.m., watchstanders were notified by a diver colleague that the man was missing, according to the Coast Guard. The men reportedly were conducting contract work to support telecommunications. Watchstanders immediately contacted Guam Fire at 10:42 a.m. and requested air support from the Navy's HSC-25 squadron. The Coast Guard vessel Frederick Hatch diverted from its local patrol, and a 45-foot Response Boat-Medium crew launched from Station Apra Harbor. A joint incident command post has been established on the beach nearby. The team also issued an urgent marine information broadcast notice to mariners advising anyone in the area to keep a sharp lookout and report any sightings to responders. Throughout the day, local and federal partners conducted searches inside and outside the reef line and underwater dive operations. With several search patterns complete and no sightings, crews will continue searching through the evening, and additional responders will conduct first-light searches. Searchers are dealing with windy weather and waves of 4 to 6 feet, an east swell of 6 to 8 feet, and scattered light showers. A small craft advisory and a rip current statement are in effect. A Guam-based electric vehicle company, Sun Energy Motors Inc., held its grand opening and ribbon-cutting ceremony on Saturday in Tamuning. There is no better time than now for our island to have clean transport industries. The benefits are clear as they help provide for a cleaner environment and greater island sustainability, said Walter Ulloa, Sun Energy Motors general manager. He said the company has created new jobs, increased the tax base and will improve the local economy. Gov. Lou Leon Guerrero said at the federal level, there are $7.5 billion in funds available to build a national network of electric vehicle charging stations, and that her administration will make sure Guam is included. The event was also an opportunity to showcase a new line of electric motorcycles. A demonstration of the Evoke Motorcycle showed how it is almost silent. The wheels can drive forward and backward without the rider needing to use their feet on the ground. This motorcycle travels up to 130 miles on a single charge and requires no gasoline. Sun Energy Motors is a privately held operating company on Guam, specializing in sales and service of tier-one electric motorcycles and alternate means of transportation. The showroom is located at 776 Franquez Bldg. South Marine Corps Drive in Tamuning, next to National Office Supply. MBABANE The Deputy Prime Minister (DPM), Themba Masuku, has related how and why police asked for an army backup during the June 2021 civil unrest. In an interview with Eswatini Broadcasting and Information Services (EBIS), the deputy prime minister said there was a plot hatched by some people to burn the Matsapha Industrial Site.Masuku said there was also a plot to burn the fuel and gas depots in Matsapha and some firms there. He said the countrys laws dictated that the national commissioner (NATCOM) of police should ask for backup from other security clusters in case they lacked full capacity to respond to an emergency. Masuku said there was also a threat to burn the Eswatini Breweries. Looting The DPM said some people were looting shops, setting them on fire, thus sending a signal that the country as a whole was under siege. He said trucks and tractor loader backhoes (TLB) were burnt at Siphofaneni. He disputed assertions and long-held beliefs and analysis that government overreacted to the arson attacks and lootings. Masuku said government did not use an iron hand to deal with the people who were burning property. He said it was a pity that social disorder coincided with an audio which circulated on Facebook whereby a certain former Member of Parliament (MP) alleged that some armed foreigners were already in the country to cause mayhem.He did not reveal the name of the former MP. Pleaded However, it is common knowledge that an audio featuring former Siphofaneni MP Mduduzi Gawuzela Simelane and Masuku himself circulated on social media. Simelane pleaded with the deputy prime minister to use the national radio to ask for calm. The DPM told the EBIS that it was difficult during the thick of the night to identify people who were throwing stones - not wanting to be specific on whether stone-throwing could be equated to shooting. He pointed out that it was easy to shift blame for the calamity of June 2021 to the government yet there were so many people walking at night. He said it puzzled them to see a determined and brave group of people walking at night. He said their bravery prompted questions on what could have been their motivating factor for walking during the thick of the night when security was all over the country. He alluded to the fact that June 2021 was the hardest time in the history of the country, refuting allegations that he added fuel to the fire when he banned people from petitioning government to improve services. Petitioned The DPM said there was no way they could have petitioned government at night. He said most of the calamities of June 2021 occurred during the night. We saw on social media that property was in flames. We were also made to understand that a group from Mbhuleni was marching to Matsapha to burn the Eswatini Beverages and also destroy firms there. They did all of these things during the night, explained the deputy prime minister. He said there was chaos in the country as some people manned their own roadblocks, something which was illegal as they blocked the road by placing stones. A report published by the Eswatini Commission on Human Rights and Public Administration stated that at least 46 people died during the June protests. It stated that 245 people had gunshot injuries 22 people with multiple gunshot injuries and 118 people had unspecified injuries. Victims told the commission that they were shot by members of the Eswatini armed forces. The commission recommended to government to initiate an independent, thorough, credible, transparent and impartial investigation by experts with relevant skills and knowledge into allegations of human rights violations and abuse and to bring those responsible to justice. Unrest In 2021, a similar or almost similar unrest occurred in South Africa, where about 300 people died. The Government of South Africa said 5 500 people were arrested by August 12, 2022. Widespread looting and burning of businesses broke out a day after former President Jacob Zuma began serving a 15-month jail term for ignoring a corruption inquiry. The violence escalated into the worst unrest since the end of apartheid, prompting President Cyril Ramaphosa to label it an attempted insurrection. Violence spread through Zumas home province, KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng the two most populous provinces, which together account for half of South Africas economic output. Meanwhile, the Government of Eswatini said the country lost E3 billion as a result of arson and looting in 2021. It set up a fund to compensate the affected businesses. By William Schwartz | Published on 2023/02/03 On February 3rd, police in the Yeongdeungpo District of Seoul confirmed that this past January 25th, three crew members of "The King of Tears, Lee Bang Won" had been taken into police custody. The news follows up on "The King of Tears, Lee Bang Won" being accused of animal cruelty last year. In the seventh episode of that drama, broadcast on January 1st of 2022, a horse can be seen taking an awful fall. Advertisement However, this was no mere stuntwork. According to Seoul police, on the day this episode was filmed, November 2nd of 2021, the horse in question had its front legs tied together in order to make it crash into the ground in such a way, and the animal did not receive appropriate medical treatment afterwards to help it recover from these injuries. These violations of the Animal Protection Act were rumored and protested at the time, although the exact details were not known until the police report. The horse died on November 7th of 2021. KBS apologized for the incident last year and claimed to take full responsibility, but it would seem that Seoul police were not satisfied that the pain caused to the horse was negligent rather than intentional. A fifty-seven year old producer was among those charged, and appears to be the person Seoul police believe was most responsible for the incident. Written by William Schwartz ___________ "The King of Tears, Lee Bang Won" is directed by Kim Hyeong-il, Shim Jae-hyun-I, written by Lee Jeong-woo-III, and features Joo Sang-wook, Kim Young-chul, Park Jin-hee, Ye Ji-won, Nam Sung-jin, Kim Kyu-chul. Broadcasting information in Korea: 2021/12/11~2022/05/01, Sat, Sun 21:40 on KBS. Published on 2023/02/03 | Source New poster added for the upcoming Korean movie "Next Sohee" (2022) Advertisement Directed by July Jung With Bae Doona, Kim Si-eun-I, Jung Hoe-rin, Bahk Woo-young , Park Hee-eun, Shim Hee-sub,... Started filming: 2022/01/16 Synopsis A work that deals with the incident experienced by So-hee, a high school girl who went on a field trip to a call center, and the story of Yoo-jin, a female detective, who doubts her. Release date in Korea : 2023/02/08 Published on 2023/02/03 | Source New behind-the-scene stills added for the Korean movie "Phantom" (2023) Advertisement Directed by Lee Hae-yeong With Sol Kyung-gu, Lee Hanee, Park So-dam, Park Hae-soo, Seo Hyun-woo, Kim Dong-hee,... Synopsis "A shout out to the phantom. Start the operation". In 1933, the "Phantom", a spy of the anti-Japanese organization Black Team in Gyeongseong, a Japanese colonial era, is secretly active. Kaito, the newly appointed captain of the security forces, tries to prevent the Black Team from assassinating the governor. It sets a trap to catch the "Phantom" in the Japanese Government-General of Korea. The suspects are suspected of being 'phantoms' and trapped in a remote hotel on the edge of the cliff. Governor General's Communications Division Supervisor, Junji, Cha-kyeong in charge of ciphertext records, Yuriko, Secretary for Political Affairs, Chief of the Sky Command in charge of decryption and Baek-ho, a communications department employee, only have one day. "Phantom" must survive, save his comrades, and succeed in the assassination of the governor. Doubts and boundaries grow between those who want to return home safely... Will the "Phantom" be able to succeed in the operation? "You can't stop until you succeed". Release date in Korea : 2023/01/18 Ask Matt ... when construction will start on Ecusta Trail Q. When will they start construction of the Ecusta Trail? The 19-mile former railroad corridor is being developed by two governmental entities. The 11-mile section from Hendersonville to the Transylvania line is the responsibility of Henderson County and the balance of the line is being planned by the City of Brevard. At this time, only a six-mile stretch from S. Church Street in Hendersonville to Battlecreek Road in Horse Shoe in the Henderson County section has been undergoing formal design and engineering. In November of 2021, Henderson County appointed a 9-member Rail-Trail Advisory Committee, which is chaired by former state Rep. Chuck McGrady, also a current state Transportation Board member. During 2022 the Committee has received updates on the progress of the planning by the engineering firm of Vaughn & Melton which has just merged with JMT, an engineering firm based in Maryland. On Jan. 11 of this year RTAC heard a report from JMT at what is called the 90 percent design point. Here are some of the key dates and elements of that report: Most of the design drawings have been completed. The last 10 percent of design would be finished in the next few weeks and the RTAC was able to offer specific guidance to the engineers in a special called meeting last week. During the next few months applications for permits from governmental agencies will begin. Examples include stormwater, erosion control and environmental. Construction bids could be advertised by mid-April with construction beginning on the first six-miles in mid-July. A December 2023 completion date was estimated. The trail is designed to be a 14-foot wide paved width east of White Pine Drive and 12 feet beyond. Six prefabricated steel bridges are proposed for each stream crossing. Landscape features and safety features are built into the design. Amenities such as benches, signage and bike racks are also included in the plans but it was noted that not all amenities are grant eligible. Chairman McGrady asked that Brevard Mayor Maureen Copelof be invited to the next RTAC meeting to extend the lines of communication since it is intended that the Brevard section mirror the Henderson County section when the entirety of the Ecusta Trail is eventually built. * * * * * Send questions to askmattm@gmail.com. Jordan's Queen Alia International Airport (QAIA) recently welcomed the inaugural flight of Edelweiss Air, the leading leisure airline of Switzerland and a member of Lufthansa Group, from Zurich in capital Amman with the customary water arch salute. On its schedule, QAIA said Edelweiss Air will operate two weekly flights - on Sundays and Thursdays - to Amman then Aqaba, with return flights to Zurich scheduled the next day on Mondays and Fridays. This step corresponds with the consistent efforts of Airport International Group and the Jordan Tourism Board (JTB) to expand QAIA's airline and destination networks in order to offer passengers varied direct route options, it stated. The debut flight was greeted in style in the presence of representatives from Airport International Group, Edelweiss Air and its ground handler Royal Jordanian. "We are delighted to be boosting QAIAs airline network this early on in the year by establishing an additional direct connection to a major European city like Zurich, enabling Swiss travellers to visit Jordan aboard a carrier known for flying to only the most captivating holiday destinations," remarked Airport International Group CEO Nicolas Claude. "We thank our partners for supporting our airline diversification efforts, which allow us to deliver the best services to our passengers and further propel QAIA as Jordans prime gateway to the world," he added. Edelweiss Air Chief Commercial Officer, Patrick Heymann expressed delight at boosting its network with two new destinations - Amman and Aqaba. "Jordan is an interesting and diverse country to visit, rich of culture, history, and nature. Our new flight from Zurich to Amman is tailored to the needs of tourists from Switzerland visiting the beautiful Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan," he added.-TradeArabia News Service Despite breaking international law, the Chinese balloon over the US poses no risk to those on the ground, according to Pentagon Press Secretary Patrick Ryder, who spoke at a news conference on Friday, Azernews reports citing TASS. "We do know that the balloon has violated US airspace and international law, which is unacceptable," he said. He insisted "its a surveillance balloon" and said it "does not present a military or physical threat to people on the ground." Ryder also said the Chinese balloon continued to move eastward and was positioned over the center of the continental United States. He declined to say exactly where the balloon, said it was able to maneuver and floated at the altitude of 60,000 feet, which is above the flight paths of commercial airlines. Ryder declined to provide more details, saying the data were classified. The Pentagon is closely tracking the Chinese balloon, which will probably float over the US for a few more days, he said. He said the US "continues to monitor it closely," adding the balloon will likely remain over the US for a few more days. Ryder said the Pentagon was reviewing options with regards to the balloon and could provide more information to news media at a later time. He said the balloon doesnt have any radioactive substances onboard. The US earlier observed similar balloon activity, the spokesman said. What sets apart the current balloon from earlier balloons is the duration of its floating over the US. The Pentagon earlier said it believed its dangerous to shoot down the balloon due to its large size. The US took measures to prevent the balloon from gathering sensitive data as soon as it was detected, according to the Pentagon. Islamabad, Feb. 4 (UNI) Pakistani rupee continues a speedy crash against the U.S. dollar with another big fall as the greenback was traded at a record high price of 276.58 rupees in the interbank market on Friday, according to the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP). The U.S. dollar closed at 271.36 rupees on Thursday. On the last working day of the week, the local currency depreciated by 5.22 rupees, or about 1.89 percent, against the U.S. dollar, official figures showed. Talking to Xinhua, Reza Baqir, former governor of the SBP, said that depleting foreign exchange reserves of the country, along with the fall in exports and decline in remittances from overseas Pakistanis, is directly influencing the foreign reserves and eventually the value of the rupee. Baqir said that all these factors as well as the global recession is contributing to negative sentiments and uncertainty in the market, which resulted in the free fall of the local currency. Enditem UNI XINHUA RKM Retirees Are Losing Their Life Savings to Romance Scams. Heres What to Know. Crystal Cruises will set sail again this summer with new name, 'personalized service' Wait! Before you go Please sign up for our Evening Digest and Breaking Newsletters Success! An email has been sent to with a link to confirm list signup. Error! There was an error processing your request. * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. If you have an event you'd like to list on the site, submit it now! Submit Subscribers to Register-Star or The Daily Mail are eligible to receive full access to HudsonValley360. If you have an existing print subscription, please make sure your email address on file matches your HudsonValley360 account email. BOSTON The Healey-Driscoll Administration filed a $282 million gross / $154 million net Fiscal Year 2023 (FY23) supplemental budget to address needs across the state's family emergency shelter system. Currently the system is at capacity and facing elevated levels of demand by families facing homelessness. "Our administration is committed to ensuring that families in Massachusetts have access to the shelter, health care, education, food assistance and other services they need, and that our communities have the resources to provide them," said Governor Healey. "The bill that we're filing today would extend urgently needed funding for several critical programs Emergency Assistance, universal school meals and SNAP to continue to provide these services. We look forward to working closely with our partners in Legislature to meet this moment and deliver for the people of Massachusetts." The budget also extends two food security programs that will soon run out of funding. The bill also proposes $21.9 million to support schools through the end of the 2023-2024 school year. The funding is targeted toward the communities experiencing a large influx of families with school-aged children due to state shelter placements in particular, by providing financial support to schools and school districts for the costs associated with placing new students in local schools. This bill also includes funding to maintain a temporary central intake center where families can receive timely case management services and health assessments during their first few days in shelter and for costs associated with other necessary health assessments and immigration-focused case management. "Frontline providers and advocacy organizations have been doing heroic work to provide for families arriving in Massachusetts, but they need continued funding and support. Governor Healey and I are committed to working in close partnership with them to secure this needed funding and continue supporting our immigrant and refugee communities," said Lieutenant Governor Driscoll. "Through this bill, we're also seeking to infuse more funding to programs that make sure kids don't go hungry at school and to help families afford their groceries. These are essential programs that must be maintained." The funding to support emergency shelters and related services would be authorized for DHCD as well as other agencies that play a role in responding to this crisis, and would work in combination with a $20 million appropriation in the economic development bill enacted in November 2022. The bill proposes $85 million to support the Emergency Assistance program and other necessary services for eligible families in need of emergency shelter in the Commonwealth. With the shelter system currently at capacity, $64.9 million of this funding would support the Department of Housing and Community Development's (DHCD) efforts to expand the number of units available to provide safe, temporary shelter to vulnerable families facing homelessness. This includes investments in housing infrastructure and the shelter provider workforce that helps to stabilize and rehouse families. Based on current caseload projections, more than 1,100 shelter units over baseline capacity are needed, and the funds in this bill are needed to keep pace with this demand. An infrastructure audit by Williams College students found that the elementary school wasn't getting any electricity from its solar array. Williamstown Energy Audit Draws Attention to Solar Array Deficiency WILLIAMSTOWN, Mass. When a solar energy system was included in the design of Williamstown Elementary School in 2002, officials hailed the move. "With renewable energy and other energy efficiencies, we can build a healthier and more comfortable learning environment for our children and we can do it economically," the chair of the School Committee said when the state delivered a $58,000 Renewable Energy Fund grant. Two decades later, the news is less encouraging. "At the elementary school, we had one of our most surprising discoveries," Williams College senior Alana Lopez Barro Rivera said during a presentation at Town Hall late last year. "The elementary school has a decently large onsite solar array. However, the inverters that make it so the electricity produced by the solar panels is actually usable, functioning electricity have not been working for at least the past seven years." Rivera and classmates Gracie Guidotti and Maria Avrantini audited town infrastructure for energy efficiency as part of an environmental planning class at Williams College. The trio worked on behalf of their "client," the town's Carbon Dioxide Lowering Committee, under the direction of professor Sarah Gardner. In December, the students presented their findings in a public forum that was recorded by the town's public access television station, WilliNet, and available for viewing on the station's website. Not surprisingly, the students found a number of areas where the town's buildings and vehicle fleet could be more efficient including at the town's oldest building, where they gave their presentation. The elementary school, which opened its doors in 2002, is one of the newest. And although the school itself is now part of a two-town regional school district, the building, built when WES was a single-school district, continues to be owned by the town. Under the 2018 regional agreement between Williamstown, Lanesborough and the expanded Mount Greylock Regional School District, the two towns own their elementary schools, lease them to the district for $1 per year and are responsible for repairs to the buildings with costs that exceed $5,000. "One of the main priorities for the elementary schools is to fix those inverters so that the solar panels, which are functioning, can produce electricity for the school," Rivera said. "Then, maybe, in the future explore expansion of the solar array and installation of heat pumps. However, that is not a priority given that their boilers are very, very new." Henry Art, an emeritus professor of environmental studies and biology at Williams and longtime public official in Williamstown, used the Q&A period at the end of the students' presentation to comment on their finding. "I'm astounded that the inverters on the elementary school are not working properly," Art said. "Has this been known for seven years or this is a recent discovery? And is that energy being fed onto the grid and we're just not getting it back or is it just doing nothing?" The students did not have a definitive answer for when the issue was discovered but clarified that the energy captured by the solar photovoltaic panels on the building's roof is not being utilized at all. "This was also a shocking discovery for us," Guidotti said. "Currently, the energy is not going anywhere. It's just being produced and sitting there. The inverter is the one that would transition that to energy that could be used on the grid." Town Manager Robert Menicocci, who was hired last spring, said in an email that he became aware of the issue more recently. "The school district brought the equipment failure to my attention in the fall and we are continuing to discuss this as we develop our respective budgets," Menicocci said in an email last month. "We do not have a plan of action as of yet. "We are looking at several options from a simple repair to an entire redo and investigating potential funding sources but no, I don't have any cost estimates yet." The inverter at the elementary school, while perhaps an urgent need, is one of just many items covered by the students' audit. Many of the issues they found align with priorities Menicocci has expressed about doing in-depth analyses of the town's infrastructure and compiling a long-term plan for the town's physical plant. The trio rated the town's buildings for energy efficiency and categorized them on a spectrum from least to most. The elementary school, leaving aside the problem with the solar system, scored high due to its double-paned windows, insulation and LED lighting. The Williamstown Police Station, completed in 2019, likewise scored well on those metrics. At the other end of the spectrum were facilities like the 1937 Sherman Burbank Memorial Chapel at East Lawn Cemetery, one of the town's smaller buildings, and the Department of Public Works building. The latter was called out for its wood boiler, which, while relatively inexpensive to operate on waste wood, is a large source of pollution, the students noted. "An outdoor boiler on a residential scale is shown to pollute as much as 1,800 homes heated by natural gas, so these are very harmful to the environment," Guidotti said. "Although this is a very economical boiler, given all the fuel is free, we find the environmental impacts are far worse than the cost/benefit. So we think in the long term, once the wood boiler reaches its end of life, it would be the best option to replace that with emerging technologies." Similarly, the trio recommended exploring new technology for the town's rolling infrastructure. The students recommended transitioning to electric vehicles for the town's police cruisers and light-duty pickup trucks. But they recognize that viable electric options do not exist for heavy duty equipment, like snow plows. Instead, they recommended the town look into converting its heavier equipment to biodiesel fuels. "It can be used in any diesel engine, and any blends above 20 percent require engine upgrades that have a payback period of less than a year," Guidotti said. "We recommend transitioning to the B100 blend, which is 100 percent biodiesel, in the snowplows, because it can reduce emissions up to 95 percent." While there are financial costs to most of the recommendations on the students' list, they pointed out that Williamstown has opportunities to defray those costs, including by seeking partnerships with neighboring communities. "We understand funding is very important at the municipal level," Avrantini said. "Williamstown is a designated Green Community, so it's eligible for funding under the [commonwealth's] Green Communities Grants. "We had some additional recommendations, and one of them was adding to the town management an energy manager. We know that may be hard, but we were thinking this could be another example of a shared position." Governor Signs Proclamation Recognizing Black History Month BOSTON Governor Maura T. Healey signed her first proclamation as Governor, recognizing February as Black History Month in Massachusetts and urging all residents to join her in honoring the history and contributions of Massachusetts' Black community. "Black history is American history. It's filled with moments of pain, perseverance, overwhelming joy and profound love. This month, and every month, I hope Massachusetts residents will join me in honoring Black changemakers and innovators of the past and present," said Governor Healey. "As Governor, I'm committed to building an administration that sees the dignity and worth of every person. We will value and protect Black lives, and work to break down the barriers holding our Black communities back." The full text of the proclamation is below. A Proclamation Whereas, Black History Month was first celebrated nationally in 1976 during the United States Bicentennial; and Whereas, Black History Month has a rich cultural history throughout the United States, symbolizing the enduring strength and significance of civil rights pioneers including Martin Luther King, Jr., Rosa Parks, Phillis Wheatley, and Frederick Douglass; and Whereas, The Commonwealth of Massachusetts continues to play an integral role in the movement towards equality, having been host to a number of historic events and monuments such as Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s civil rights march from Roxbury to Boston Common, being home to the pioneering Center for Antiracist Research at Boston University, and featuring "The Embrace" sculpture by Hank Willis Thomas depicting Martin Luther King, Jr. and Coretta Scott King; and Whereas, The Commonwealth must continue to move towards equality, recognizing the barriers faced by the Black community and addressing structural racism and social, political, and economic inequalities; and Whereas, Black History Month is an opportunity to recognize the many contributions and achievements by Black leaders and members of the community to the Commonwealth throughout the course of our history from Massachusetts natives like W.E.B. Du Bois and Ruth M. Batson; and Whereas, This year's Black History Month theme is "Black Resistance", bringing awareness to the historically underserved Black community through oppression in various forms. "Black Resistance" recognizes the achievements and progress that the Black community has made through opposition to racial constructs and prejudices as is evident through the passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the Voting Rights Act, and increased representation in government and politics; and Whereas, Black History Month is a time to celebrate and acknowledge the significant history and contributions of the Black community throughout the Commonwealth and the United States, as well as to bring awareness to the challenges faced by the Black community and the methods in which they have tirelessly worked to conquer such adversity, Now, Therefore, I, Maura T. Healey, Governor of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, do hereby proclaim February 2023 to be, And urge all the citizens of the Commonwealth to take cognizance of this event and participate fittingly in its observance. Given at the Executive Chamber in Boston, this first day of February, in the year two thousand and twenty-three, and of the Independence of the United States of America, the two hundred and forty-sixth. By Her Excellency Maura T. Healey Governor of the Commonwealth Kimberley Driscoll Lt. Governor of the Commonwealth William Francis Galvin Secretary of the Commonwealth MAM | Media And Advertising Weekend Unwind with: MX Player chief content officer Gautam Talwar With another weekend upon us, it is time to unwind with the latest Q&A edition of Indiantelevision.com's Weekend Unwind-a series of informal chats that peek into the advertising minds of business executives through a fun lens in an attempt to get to know the person behind the title a little better. Read More... MAM | Marketing Wunderman Thompson India bags the Skoda India account Wunderman Thompson India has won the strategy and creative mandate for Skoda, the Czech automobile manufacturer, for a tenure of three years following a fiercely competitive multi-agency pitch. The account will be led and operated out of Wunderman Thompson's Mumbai office. Read More... MAM | Media And Advertising Wavemaker India ropes in George Kovoor as chief creative officer The most-awarded agency from GroupM, Wavemaker India, has appointed George Kovoor as chief creative officer. In his new role, Kovoor will report to Wavemaker CEO South Asia Ajay Gupte and will be based out of Bangalore. Read More... Television | TV Channels Bharat Express appoints Rakesh Gopal as chief revenue officer Bharat Express has kept the media fraternity abuzz with a slew of senior level appointments. The channel has further consolidated its sales team across India and announced the appointment of Rakesh Gopal as its chief revenue officer along with several senior level appointments across key markets. Read More... Television | TV Channels SPNI bags exclusive broadcast rights for the Davis Cup for two years Sony Pictures Networks India has acquired the exclusive media rights to broadcast the Davis Cup in India for two years, between 2023 and 2024. The deal was facilitated by Sportfive. Following the television and digital rights deal. Read More... Television | TV Channels India Today Group's MP Tak launches its own website India Today Group's digital-first channel, MP Tak, has further expanded its online-presence with a newly launched website www.mptak.in inaugurated by the chief minister of Madhya Pradesh, Shivraj Singh Chouhan. Read More... MAM | Media And Advertising The Womb conceptualises new campaign 'Live This Moment' for Britannia Britannia's much loved choco-filled cookie brand Pure Magic Chocolush has launched its latest campaign "Live This Moment." The new campaign showcases Pure Magic Chocolush in its all-new avatar. Read More... Shark Tank India, in its first season, ignited Indias business growth engine. The show has been designed to transform how the country views entrepreneurship. It will once more give aspiring entrepreneurs a platform to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams by pitching their ideas to seasoned investors and business professionals. The show is based on the popular concept of the show of the same name Shark Tank USA. It launched its first season in December 2021. However, Shark Tank India 2 is failing to live up to the expectations of fans in India. While the first season opened to a thunderous response, the second season is still trying to catch up. A recent episode of Shark Tank India left fans shocked for more than one reason. SonyTV While the sharks (judges) are trying to delve deeper into the emotional angle of the pitchers' lives, there are a few times when some jokes are not landing well with the fans of Shark Tank India. One such incident happened when Amore Gelato and Sorbetto presented their pitch. According to a Reddit discussion thread, the way the sharks behaved with the team of Amore wasn't "appropriate." Someone posted, "Did anyone else get uncomfortable during the Amore pitch?" Like how every shark changed their accent to a stereotypical Italian accent? The way Aman talked to the chef? The way Anupam pushed his way behind the display and took charge of giving the ice cream to others? And generally, the whole way they acted? What are your thoughts?" Reacting to the post, many fans shared that they found it appalling that the judges were trying to mock the Italian accent of Amore's chef. screenshot Well, that's not all. Someone even pointed out that the Amore is a copy of the US brand Talenti. screenshot Reacting to the same, Shark Tank India Fans wrote, screenshot Sharks from season 1 Aman Gupta, Anupam Mittal, Vineeta Singh, Namita Thapar, and Peyush Bansal have returned for the second season. The new shark on the panel is Amit Jain. Amit Jain is the CEO and Co-founder of CarDekho Group. How do you like the second edition of 'Shark Tank India'? Tell us in the comments below. (To get the latest updates from Bollywood and Hollywood, keep reading Indiatimes Entertainment) Shah Rukh Khan starrer Pathaan is roaring with success. This Sidharth Anand directorial which has grossed over 700 crores globally and 400 crores domestically is eyeing a high jump over the weekend. It was known news that Pathaan got banned in Pakistan but several reports recently exposed the illegal screening of the film. Also Read: Nailed It, Influencer Leaves Internet ROFL With Her Mimicry Of Deepika Padukone From Pathaan web screen grab Addressing the matter, the Sindh Board of Films Censor has issued a stern warning for the same. A company named Firework Events is reportedly organizing Pathaans illegal screening at different locations in Pakistan. They are courageous enough that one of the screenings was also put up in Karachis Defence Housing Authority. The tickets are priced at PKR 900 which is close to INR 268. Although all shows are running close to a houseful, the news has stirred a storm in Pakistan. As per a report by Dawn, the Sindh Board of Films Censor has now asked the company to cancel all the private screenings of Pathaan with immediate effect in Pakistan. Their official statement read, No person shall make or arrange a public or private exhibition of a film by means of cinematograph unless the film has been duly certified for public exhibition by the Board. Twitter The censor board has also cited a punishment of up to 3 years in jail or a fine of up to Rs 1 lakh for any organizing body. For the facts, Pathaan is a Siddharth Anand directorial which also stars Deepika Padukone and John Abraham in leads. Produced by YRF, the film hit theatres globally on 25th January. Also Read: 'I'm An SRKian': Ayushmann Khurrana Responds To A Fan Slamming Pathaan To Praise An Action Hero Do you know Pathaan is not the first film to be banned in Pakistan? Indian films were first banned in Pakistan back in 1965 when the two countries were at war. The ban then lasted for four decades until Pakistan's former military ruler Gen Pervez Musharraf resumed screening of Indian films in local cinemas. A few years down the lane, a permanent ban was imposed in 2019. Also Read: Mahira Khan Dances To Husn Hai Suhana & Dance Ka Bhoot In Viral Video From A Pak Wedding Since then it's just Shah Rukh Khan's Pathaan has been screened. A similar situation flows in India too as Pakistans blockbuster film The Legend Of Maula Jatt is finding its way to release in this country. Earlier slated to be released in December, the Fawad Khan starrer is getting postponed on several occasions. The film also starred Mahira Khan who in a recent interview said, I am still in touch with so many people and theres a lot of love in India. Unfortunately, we are easy targets, soft targets, whether its us here in Pakistan, whether its them there in India. Because were artists, and were connected by that thread of art, we actually get each other. (For more news and updates from the world of celebrities from Bollywood and Hollywood, keep reading Indiatimes Entertainment, and let us know your thoughts on this story in the comments below.) It is not common to come across majestic creatures in your daily life, unless, of course, you paddleboard for fun. Two paddleboarders got the biggest surprise when they were floating on the waters of Puerto Madryn in Argentina and a Southern Right Whale greeted them. Paddleboarders Encounter Southern Right Whale On Camera Twitter/@nowthisnews In the video clip going viral on the internet, two paddleboarders are captured from an aerial view through a drone. In the video, viewers can clearly see the whale approach one of the two paddleboarders, who stays as still as they can while the giant creature approaches them. Throughout the video, the whale does not harm or attack the humans, and the paddleboards do not disturb the animal. The whale just keeps swimming circles around the paddleboarders. The video was posted by NowThis on Twitter with the caption, When it comes to giant whale encounters, it doesnt get cooler than this paddleboarders experience. Check out the video below: When it comes to giant whale encounters, it doesnt get cooler than this paddleboarders experience pic.twitter.com/1zFD1Tlhsc NowThis (@nowthisnews) February 2, 2023 Southern Right Whales Inhabit Oceans That Are South Of The Equator Twitter/@nowthisnews For those unaware, whales are quite similar to humans in the sense that they too come to the surface to breathe air, and just like humans, whales are warm-blooded mammals who nurse their children. Experts online recognised the whale in the video as a Southern Right. These whales prefer to inhabit oceans south of the equator. People on the internet were envious of the duo who got to encounter the magical creature. One user wrote, "Thats the goal brotha." Thats the goal brotha Khalid Kareem (@khalid_kareem53) February 2, 2023 Another user joked, I would have been the latest resident of bikini bottom with sponge Bob and them had it been me. I would have been the latest resident of bikini bottom with sponge Bob and them had it been me Chao Tolle (@chaolafemefatal) February 3, 2023 A fellow was more terrified than envious, Looks great, till it knocks you over into the water. Then it is a different experience! Looks great, till it knocks you over into the water. Then it is a different experience! Anthony Marrero (@TonioMarrero) February 3, 2023 One gentleman was extremely impressed with the visuals, saying, "What a truly amazing tape. It should be submitted as a short film for an Academy Award." What a truly amazing tape. It should be submitted as a short film for an Academy Award pic.twitter.com/QqzQ5ZWMpq ShowMe2 (@ShowMe210) February 3, 2023 One commenter was all over the video, This is amazing, so calming & an experience never to be forgotten. This is amazing, so calming & an experience never to be forgotten. Trish (@mollymills1997) February 2, 2023 For more trending stories, follow us on Telegram. Recently, a horrific case got attention in New York, USA. A couple was discovered dead in their home, surrounded by 150 starving cats that were living unattended in squalor. According to authorities, the cats had even gone into the walls and the ceilings. New York Couple Found Dead Inside Apartment Surrounded By 150 Cats Twitter On Friday, the SPCA (Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) of Westchester tweeted, "This week we undertook our largest rescue ever. Our Humane Law Enforcement Unit assisted the Yorktown Heights police at a horrific scene where 150 cats were discovered living in squalor inside a small, dilapidated home." Urgent SPCA Westchester Rescues 150 Cats & Kittens This week we undertook our largest rescue ever. Our Humane Law Enforcement Unit assisted the Yorktown Heights police at a horrific scene where 150 cats were discovered living in squalor inside a small, dilapidated home. SPCA Westchester (@SPCAwestchester) February 3, 2023 The home of the couple was situated on Cordial Road in Yorktown Heights, where the cats were found in horrid conditions. The cops found the cats after a family member of the couple requested a "welfare check." On reaching the house, the cops found the couple already dead. The SPCA also informed, "Officials were unable to clear the scene until our rescue team removed most of the cats, who were found everywhere including the walls and ceilings." It Is Still Unclear How The Man And The Woman Passed Away Twitter The man and woman were not immediately identified by the police. The cops believe the couple was married. At the moment, further autopsies are being carried out to determine the cause of their deaths and obtain other information about the couple, as per Metro UK. The Yorktown Police Chief Robert Noble noted, "Collectively, we determined that the death does not appear to be the result of foul play. However, no death not of natural causes is inherently suspicious." The cats that the SPCA identified as Abyssinian mixes, appeared to have been neglected for many years. They also said that the cats were "sick and suffering with upper respiratory, eye, and skin infections, malnutrition, dehydration, and sadly, some have more severe injuries that require immediate medical attention." For more trending stories, follow us on Telegram. A junior doctor was attacked by a teenager as he walked home after work and chased by a large group of teenagers who attacked the doctors housemates who came out of their house to assist him. Jamie Cooper, 19, of Templeacre Avenue, Gurranabraher, Cork, was jailed for 18 months for his part in the violent incident. He admitted assault causing harm in respect of a punch to the nose which he carried out on one of the men who came to the initial victims assistance. He pleaded guilty at Cork Circuit Criminal Court to a charge that on October 23, 2021, at Mardyke Walk, Cork, he assaulted a man causing him harm. Judge Helen Boyle imposed a sentence of two years on the teenager with the last six months suspended. Garda Pat Dilworth said the doctor was walking home after midnight when he was confronted by two people in the group and assaulted, cut over the eye and then chased by the larger group. When he got to the house, people came out of the house to his aid. The group then set upon the five junior doctors, Garda Dilworth, adding one of these men sustained a broken nose. Brendan Kelly, defence barrister, said: He presents as a troubled young man. He would not be the most cooperative. The probation report says it all. Last summer, his attitude was he did not want to engage with the probation service. He just wanted to get on with it. There isnt a particular diagnosis in relation to him. He is engaging with courses in prison. He expressed interest in motor vehicles and mechanics. He has some aspirations. His background circumstances are appalling as bad as it gets His mother and father are both in prison. He would have had a difficult upbringing. Cooper admitted charges of violent disorder, assault causing harm and production of an article during the attack, as well as having cannabis. Judge Boyle said the aggravating factors were that the assault was carried out when a total of 11 young people were involved in a violent disorder, chasing the victim down the Mardyke. You did not back off when his housemates came out to assist him. You have 55 previous convictions, but this was the most serious thing you were involved with in your young life. In mitigation, you saved the State the time and expense of a trial and you were very young at the time. You were not cooperative with the probation service. My suggestion is that you avail of the assistance available to you in terms of your rehabilitation and education. You unfortunately have come from a terrible background. Both of your parents are in prison. You have had a severely disadvantaged background. You have suffered significant adverse events in your childhood. If you can stay away from drugs, you have a chance now to deal with your education. You are interested in cars and mechanics. There are careers out there. I would urge you to try and keep going with the studies if you can, the judge said directly to the teenager. Judge Boyle sentenced him two years, the last six months suspended on condition he would comply with directions of the probation service for 18 months. The sentence was backdated to March 26, 2022, when he went into custody. Cuts to the Irish navy will allow South American cartels to accelerate cocaine trafficking across the North Atlantic into Europe, a top expert has warned. Official confirmation this week that the naval service now has just four vessels in operation down from six ships a year ago and nine vessels in 2021 will not go unnoticed by international traffickers, according to ex-Garda assistant commissioner Michael OSullivan. Mr OSullivan stepped down in early 2022 as executive director of the Maritime Analysis and Operations Centre, Narcotics (MAOC-N) the EU agency tasked with intercepting drug shipments across the Atlantic. Ireland was a founding member of it. Mr OSullivan, who previously headed the Garda National Drugs and Organised Crime Bureau, said the naval service has a crucial role in combating the transatlantic drug trade. Because of the geographical position of Ireland its the most westerly point of Europe and covers the North Atlantic theres no other navy that can get a vessel as fast into the North Atlantic as the Irish navy, said Mr OSullivan, who works as a security consultant. He said it didnt matter how fast Spanish or Portuguese vessels were, it would take them up to a week to get to same place. He said that when he was head of MAOC-N, the Irish navy could scramble in a matter of hours. Ive been at meetings and intelligence came in and you needed eyes and ears in the North Atlantic, he said. You needed a vessel, with radar, to try and pick out your suspect vessel. Thats the starting point of any investigation to get sight of the vessel. Those coordinates are not going to last forever, so the faster you can get a vessel out there the better. If it takes too long, the vessels gone. He said the navies of western Europe were the eyes and ears of law enforcement. The first line of defence against international drugs trafficking from South America are the naval services and the Irish navy are that in the North Atlantic. The Irish navy are very professional, very dedicated, and very motivated. But now they have four ships, half of what they had. He said traffickers will seize on this. There are guys in Colombia who are looking for every angle and every way ships, planes, and submarines to send drugs over the Atlantic. They will go to areas of least resistance and if they see a gap on the North Atlantic route they will send vessels there. The Irish navy doesnt have the resources and that creates problems. Do I fear the fact the reduction of naval vessels patrolling off the Irish coast will present opportunities? Yes, I think so. Tanaiste and Foreign Affairs and Defence Minister Micheal Martin told the Dail on Tuesday that recruitment problems meant that two more ships would be tied up, bringing the number to four. Mr Martin was questioned by the opposition about the publication of the implementation plan, due last month, for the Commission on the Defence Forces (CDF), published almost a year ago. The Tanaiste said publication was at an advanced stage. Conor King, general secretary of the Representative Association of Commissioned Officers, said the lack of progress in implementing the CDF had resulted in loss of morale and confidence, manifested in the frighteningly low strength of the Defence Forces today. He said: Make no mistake, what we have is a people problem. It is only through the retention of skilled personnel that we can stop the bleed. Lieutenant Colonel King added: The solutions are clear, but have been inexplicably ignored up to now: firstly, implement the Working Time Directive through collective agreement with the representative associations; this will force a consolidation and ensure better work life balance and certainty for members. "Secondly, fix the pension for new entrants, which is no longer fit for purpose for uniformed service personnel. Finally, support, incentivize and reward the people you will rely on to recruit and train the thousands of new entrants needed. "Unless these three measures happen urgently, there is little chance of becoming an employer of choice once more and strengthening our Defence Forces. A leading elderly rights campaigner has called on large shopping centres to introduce "designated safe and secure shopping hours" for older people after thieves targeted a pensioner in the aisles of her local supermarket. Paddy OBrien, who has spent over 60 years advocating for older people, made the suggestion on Friday after details on a robbery in Cork City emerged. The effect a callous crime like this can have on older people is appalling. It can affect them for the rest of their lives, he said. It can steal their independence, they can lose their confidence, and lose their trust in people. They may not want to go out again, so a moment like this can change their lives forever. Two teenagers targeted a woman during her weekly shop in Dunnes Stores in Blackpool on Tuesday morning. The woman, 67, who had placed her handbag on the trolleys drink holder, left the trolley unattended for about five seconds to go to another aisle, and returned to find her trolley gone. Two teenagers pushed it towards the exit, then grabbed her handbag and fled the shopping centre on foot, leaving the woman distraught. They later dropped the bag, but took a quantity of cash and a mobile phone. Her son, Paul, told the Neil Prendeville Show on Corks RedFM that Dunnes' staff could not have been more helpful, that they gave her a cup of tea, comforted her and covered the cost of her shopping. But he said he wanted to highlight the incident to warn others and to appeal for the return of the phone. Its an old phone and its of no use to anyone but it has loads of memories of her grandchildren since their birth, communions, birthdays, and videos, he said. Mr OBrien said: Its just unbelievable that people would stoop so low as to target an older woman on her own." He urged shopping centre managers to increase the presence of high-visibility security staff and to consider introducing dedicated safe shopping hours for pensioners. There is no greater deterrent than a security uniform, he said. But I think dedicated safe shopping hours for pensioners would pay off in the long-term. And there would be a social aspect to it too they could meet other people their same age, have a chat, and it would give people an extra sense of security. Gardai examined CCTV footage from the shop at the time of the robbery, and two teenagers were arrested in the shopping centre several hours later for questioning in connection with the incident. They were subsequently released without charge and inquiries are continuing. The European Union will unveil its 10th package of sanctions against Russia on February 24 to mark the anniversary of Moscows full-scale invasion of Ukraine, a senior official from the bloc said in Kyiv on Friday. The sanctions will target technology used by Russias war machine, among other things, European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen told a news conference. The sanctions will take aim in particular at components used in the manufacturing of drones, she said, naming Iran as a key supplier of Russia. Closing loopholes that the Kremlin uses to circumvent sanctions will also be a priority, according to Ms von der Leyen, who was on her fourth visit to the Ukrainian capital since the war began. The exact measures in the next EU sanctions package must be agreed upon by the blocs 27 member countries a process that can take weeks. Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky, European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen and European Council president Charles Michel after the EU-Ukraine summit in Kyiv (Efrem Lukatsky/AP) The last such summit was held in Kyiv in October 2021 a few months before the war started. The highly symbolic visit is also the first EU political mission of its kind to a country at war. The high-level meeting came as a 60-year-old man was killed and six others were wounded on Friday after Russian missiles hit central Toretsk, a town in Ukraines eastern Donetsk region, the local prosecutors office said in a statement on Facebook. Ukrainian authorities reported on Friday that at least six civilians were killed and 20 others were wounded over the previous 24 hours. Among the dead were two brothers, ages 49 and 42, killed when Russian shelling destroyed an apartment building in the north-eastern Kharkiv region, Ukraines presidential office said. Their 70-year-old father was taken to hospital with unspecified injuries. Also, six people were wounded and 18 apartment buildings, two hospitals and a school were damaged in a Russian attack in the eastern city of Kramatorsk on Thursday, governor Pavlo Kyrylenko told Ukrainian TV. Three people died when a Russian missile hit an apartment building in that city on Wednesday. European officials were adamant about continuing to support Ukraine militarily and economically, but they did not provide any new details about Ukraines accession path to the EU. Mr Zelensky said that Ukraines goal is to start negotiations this year. But the process will likely take years and require the adoption of far-reaching reforms, including a clampdown on endemic corruption as the country receives billions of dollars in aid. Ukraine is a true inspiration for Europe. At the 24th EU-Ukraine summit in Kyiv, leaders discussed: Ukraine's European path The EU's response to Russia's war Ukraines initiatives for just peace Cooperation in reconstruction Learn more #StandWithUkraine European Commission (@EU_Commission) February 3, 2023 Kyiv formally submitted its application last June. Mr Zelensky said that progress had been made to further economically integrate Ukraine into the EU across several sectors, including agriculture, industry, energy and customs. Ukraines government is keen to get more Western military aid, on top of the tanks pledged last week, as the warring sides are expected to launch new offensives once winter ends. Kyiv is now asking for fighter jets. The US was expected to announce on Friday it will send longer-range bombs to Ukraine as part of a new 2.17 billion dollar (1.8 billion) aid package. Ukraines forces are bracing for an expected new onslaught by the Kremlins troops in eastern Ukraine. Kyivs forces have a chance of beating back the looming offensive if supplied with the right Western weapons, Mr Zelensky said. Our task is not to give them (an) opportunity (for revenge) until our army is strengthened with appropriate weapons. I think we have a chance, Mr Zelensky added. Our 9 packages of sanctions are biting, and a 10th one is on its way. With our partners, we must deny Russia the means to kill Ukrainian civilians and destroy homes and offices. New measures will hit the trade and technology that supports Russias war machine. pic.twitter.com/bXKOa92ENP Ursula von der Leyen (@vonderleyen) February 3, 2023 Officials in the eastern Luhansk region said that Russian forces have disabled mobile internet connections, stepped up shelling and deployed more troops in preparation for an offensive there. EU assistance for Ukraine has reached almost 50 billion euros (45 billion) since the fighting started, according to officials from the bloc. The EU is providing Ukraine with financial and humanitarian aid, among other things. The bloc also announced it is ramping up its military training mission for Ukraine, from an initial target of pushing 15,000 troops through the schooling to up to 30,000 troops. One focus is to train the crews of tanks that Western countries have offered Ukraine. Burma ASEAN Urges Myanmar Junta to Implement Peace Plan Indonesia's Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi addresses the press after the ASEAN Foreign Ministers' Retreat in Jakarta on Saturday. / AFP Jakarta Southeast Asian ministers at the end of two-day talks in Indonesia on Saturday urged Myanmars junta to implement a five-point peace plan agreed two years ago to create a path towards ending the countrys crisis. Indonesia, Southeast Asias biggest economy, is the chair of the 10-member Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) for 2023 and will host the leaders meetings later this year. Indonesian Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi said Jakarta proposed an implementation plan to ASEAN members for the five-point consensus agreed with the junta in April 2021 that called for an end to violence and dialogue between the military and representatives of the deposed government. Broad support was received from all member states to this plan, she told reporters. This plan is very important for ASEAN, in particular the chair, as guidance to address the situation in Myanmar in a united manner. It shows a strong unity of ASEAN members to implement the 5PC. The junta remains an ASEAN member but the bloc barred it from summits over its failure to implement the plan. Myanmars foreign minister Than Swe, who was appointed this week, was not invited to Fridays talks after the junta rejected an invite for a non-political representative. Indonesia says the lack of progress by the junta tests the blocs credibility and that it is still working to find solutions to the crisis. Jakarta has announced plans to set up a special envoys office under the foreign ministry to establish low-level dialogue with the junta. Burma Burmese Spiderman Killed in Sagaing Khant Thiha, also known as Spider, 17, peaceful protester turned resistance fighter. A young resistance fighter, known as the Burmese Spiderman because he wore a mask during anti-regime protests in Yangon, was killed during a clash in Shwebo Township, Sagaing Region, on Wednesday. Khant Thiha, 17, and another two members of the Black Wolf Army, Yebaw Paing Gyi, 30, and Win Soe, 27, were killed in shelling near Bone Bweit village. Spider, who was studying in Yangon, joined the Black Wolf Army in Shwebo in late April last year. He previously participated in guerilla strikes in Yangon and worked as a citizen journalist to record the protests. He founded Nway Oo Photography, a revolutionary social network page, and volunteered with Covid patients to deliver oxygen cylinders. Khant Thiha went on the run to avoid incitement charges after junta troops searched his home. He continued to take part in flash-mob protests, shouting anti-regime slogans while wearing his mask to prevent junta forces from recognizing him, according to a friend. His revolutionary spirit was strong. He wanted to participate in the revolution wherever he was, Khant Thihas friend told The Irrawaddy. Fellow strikers in Yangon said he tried to join the guerrilla strikes no matter how tired he was or how dangerous the situation was. They said he never missed a single protest until he left to join the armed resistance. If there were three strikes a day, he tried to go to all of them despite the regimes violence, Ye Nyi Htet of Anti-Junta Alliance Yangon told The Irrawaddy. We are very hurt to hear the news. Khant Thiha survived the juntas deadly vehicle-ramming attack on a flash-mob protest in Kyimyindaing Township, Yangon, in December 2021, which left five protesters dead and severely injured many others. Thirteen revolutionary organizations in Yangon issued statements of condolence. A Black Wolf Army spokesman said the death of three fighters was a bitter loss. He said Khant Thiha fought in battles and took evidence of fighting and junta atrocities in Sagaing Region and helped raise funds. Although he was skinny, he was very brave. He was always enthusiastic to go to the frontline, the spokesman told The Irrawaddy. He said the Black Wolf leaders urged Khant Thiha to continue his education instead of taking up arms because he was so young. But Khant Thiha said he would return to education when the revolution ended. In Wednesdays clash, Khant Thiha was not on the list to fight but he volunteered for the battle. Khant Thiha died from blood loss from a leg wound while Yebaw Paing Gyi and Yebaw Soe Win died on the spot. An estimated four junta soldiers were also reported to have been killed. The Black Wolf Army attacked regime troops near Bone Bweit village on Saturday in revenge for the three deaths and heavy junta casualties were reported. The Black Wolf Army said Khant Thiha raised a three-finger salute and sang a revolutionary song as he died. Khant Thiha previously told the Yangon Revolution Force in an interview that the public must participate in the revolution in any way they can. A condolence video created by Yangon Revolution Force for Khant Thiha, also known as Spider. Please help and support resistance fighters and those who are continuing strikes on the ground. Please dont forget our comrades jailed in prisons and those who gave their lives. If you participate, the revolution will surely be successful. So I hereby urge everyone to join, he said. Guest Column Myanmar's Military Takeover Falters Myanmar regime troops take part in the Armed Forces Day parade in Naypyitaw in March 2022. Global news headlines this month will be focused on the one-year anniversary of Russias invasion of Ukraine, which falls on Feb. 24. This external aggression, where a bigger state unilaterally takes territory from a smaller neighbor by force, can be juxtaposed with an internal subjugation in Myanmar, where a military coup took place two years ago this week. Whether the aggression is externally between states, or internally within a state, the oppressors behave the same way and pursue similar objectives of conquest and dominance. Reversing an internal subjugation is as morally compelling as turning back an external aggression. What Myanmars civilian-led resistance coalition needs is a fraction of the aid the Ukrainians have been receiving. When Myanmars military (also known as the Tatmadaw), led by Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, staged the putsch, few could have imagined that the civilian resistance would be so fierce, determined, and adaptive. Most thought that the Myanmar military would succeed with its coup in 2021, just as it had in the past, whether in 1962 or 1988. Thailands two coups in 2006 and 2014 were further evidence that military takeovers are a routine undertaking for power-hungry generals when they see fit. But the Tatmadaws seizure of power this time has failed to consolidate territory and govern the populace over the past two years. In response to the military takeover, a nationwide anti-coup uprising immediately sprang up and organized around elected representatives from the November 2020 election and the civilian-led National Unity Government (NUG), eventually including makeshift militias of villagers and urban youths that formed into ubiquitous Peoples Defense Forces (PDFs) in alliance with the ethnic resistance organizations (EROs) around the country. No one saw it comingthat the NUG, together with the subsequent National Unity Consultative Committee, would gain traction and become a viable civilian-elected government that is winning growing international support and recognition. That a battle-hardened Tatmadaw would prove unable to subdue combat resistance and consolidate power against ethnic armies and a bunch of ragtag militias using guerrilla tactics was unanticipated. Thus a full-blooded civil war and stalemate are occurring in Myanmar today. Neither side can resolutely prevail. An estimated half of the country is under the opposition alliances control, gaining more ground and inflicting more casualties daily against security forces. Yet the Tatmadaw has arms, armor and air power to continue fighting indefinitely, partly because it makes enough income from selling Myanmars lucrative natural resources. While the NUG, PDFs, EROs, and other domestic columns in the anti-coup coalition have the commitment, resolve, willpower, and growing material support to resist subjugation to the end, the junta under the State Administration Council is hunkered down for the long haul. As a result of the militarys violent clampdown on the civilian-led uprising, thousands have been killed amid media reports of wanton maiming, looting, torture and rape. According to the United Nations, almost 20,000 civilians have been arrested without due process, while more than 1.5 million have been displaced from their homes. The worsening humanitarian crisis has brought Myanmar back to its darkest days of dictatorship. Under these desperate circumstances, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) has been impotent in promoting peaceful dialogue and is in danger of passive complicity with the Tatmadaws atrocious crimes against its own people. Myanmar has taken ASEAN for a ride in pursuit of legitimacy, and ASEAN is allowing it to happen. To be sure, ASEAN is divided over what to do about Myanmars coup. Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines and Singapore have called for the restoration of the democratic process, but the rest have acquiesced to what they see as a fait accompli in favor of Snr-Gen Min Aung Hlaing. Much of what can be done about Myanmar, let alone ASEANs overall credibility, is riding on Indonesias chairmanship this year. Indonesian President Joko Widodo, at the end of a decade in top office, is likely to want to leave a lasting foreign policy legacy, particularly the recovery of ASEAN centrality and cohesion. But as long as the SAC maintains its intransigence and rides roughshod over ASEANs recommendations, such as the Five-Point Consensus from April 2021, the grouping will probably remain ineffectual in brokering peace and dialogue amid Myanmars civil war. The international community, from the US and the European Union to the United Nations, has imposed sanctions and issued repeated condemnations. But China has backed the junta, and Russia has been a major arms supplier to Myanmars illegitimate rulers. What pro-democracy supporters can do from outside is to pre-empt the juntas whitewashing program, including a plan to hold an election in the near future. A poll under these coup circumstances in the middle of a civil war the junta is losing would be a bogus exercise designed to give the generals a semblance of legitimacy and control. ASEAN should also be mindful of this prospect and avoid rubber-stamping the SACs sham election. A longer-term security concern for the Myanmar people and for the region is the potential breakup of the country into statelets and separate and semi-autonomous entities. If the Tatmadaw loses more ground and somehow shows signs of collapse, perhaps from key battlefield defeats and defections, there will be an urgent need to hold the Union of Myanmar together and away from disintegration and balkanization, a scenario to be avoided by the NUG and NUCC. It behoves the domestic supporters and the international community to ensure Myanmars territorial and political cohesion stay intact because a breakup would be disastrous for the neighborhood and a source of instability more broadly. As the battlefield balance will determine the civil war and the fate of the country, the armed opposition needs defensive weapons from like-minded supporters from abroad, particularly portable anti-aircraft capability to neutralize air strikes. The vast majority of the Myanmar people are putting their lives on the line to take back a future stolen from them by a heinous regime bent on keeping power and entrenching its vested interests. The people of Myanmar deserve a second chance at reopening and seeing a new light at the end of another dark tunnel. Having played a critical role in Myanmars reopening in 2011-21 that gave rise to a new generation with rising expectations for a better future, the international community must not shirk its obligation to see Myanmar through another transition to better days. Thitinan Pongsudhirak, PhD, is a professor at the Faculty of Political Science and a senior fellow at its Institute of Security and International Studies at Chulalongkorn University. This article first appeared in The Bangkok Post. Junta Watch Junta Watch: Poll Law Hands Win to Military Proxy Party; Regime Boss Counts Striking Medics; and More Regime boss Min Aung Hlaing, left, during a ceremony to enshrine religious objects at the Maravijaya Buddha Image in Naypyitaw on Jan. 27 this year. / Cincds New Parties Registration Law favors USDP The militarys proxy Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP) on Feb. 1 re-registered as a political party with the junta-appointed Union Election Commission, as required by the new Political Parties Registration Law recently signed into effect by junta boss Min Aung Hlaing. The new law effectively makes the junta-proposed election a one-horse race in favor of the party led by ex-generals. Under the new law, political parties contesting at the Union level need to recruit a minimum 100,000 members within 90 days of registering, and open offices in more than 160 townships, or half of the countrys total, within 180 days. They are also required to contest in over 600 constituencies. Since the countrys most popular party, the National League for Democracy, has rejected the juntas poll, no parties are in a position to challenge the USDP. Earlier, Min Aung Hlaing preached the merit of proportional representation (PR) which he said would replace the current first-past-the-post electoral system for the sake of ethnic equality. Everyone is aware that his real intention is to prevent a landslide victory by a single party, as happened when the NLD won the 2015 and 2020 polls. Again, it didnt take long for the junta boss to reveal his true colors when he imposed tight restrictions via the new Political Parties Registration Law. Half of countrys medics join CDM Overseeing the National Defense Security Council meeting to extend emergency rule for another six months earlier this week, junta boss Min Aung Hlaing admitted that 47,254 health workers had joined the Civil Disobedience Movement (CDM). Reporting to the NDSC on the work of the regime over the past two years, he said there were 103,214 health workers across the country during the third wave of Covid-19. Of these, 48,492 failed to report for duties and 47,254 of them were strikers, said the junta chief. According to Min Aung Hlaing, about half of the countrys health workers have joined the CDM. Health workers launched the Civil Disobedience Movement with street protests following the military takeover in February 2021. The nationwide strikes by medics were a serious blow to the junta, given they were led by doctors at government-run hospitals that form the backbone of Myanmars health system. In an earlier speech to graduates of the Defense Services Medical Academy, Min Aung Hlaing called CDM medics unethical and accused them of disloyalty. Today, the regime continues to detain CDM medics. Two pariahs celebrate their ties Two days before Min Aung Hlaing used the armed uprising against his military regime as an excuse to renew emergency rule, he met with Russia-Myanmar Friendship and Cooperation Association vice president Anatoly Bulochnikov in Naypyitaw. The two discussed promotion of friendship, technical and economic cooperation between the two countries, and opening direct flights to boost tourism. When the regime reshuffled its cabinet on Feb.1, it appointed retired major-general U Aung Thaw, chairman of the Myanmar-Russia Friendship Association, as hotels and tourism minister in a move to flatter Russia. Myanmar and Russia will celebrate the 75th anniversary of diplomatic ties on Feb. 18, and junta-controlled newspapers have been featuring articles praising Russia and its president Vladimir Putin. NLD vice-president absent from NDSC meet Henry Van Thio, who has served continuously as second vice-president under the National League for Democracy government and now the junta, failed to show up again at the National Defense and Security Council (NDSC) meeting on Tuesday. He was missing after purportedly falling and injuring himself at his residence in the administrative capital of Naypyitaw and being hospitalized. The former major of Chin ethnicity has not been seen in public since the military takeover. He was also absent from previous NDSC meetings, citing health reasons. In December, he gave testimony at a junta-controlled court in Naypyitaw Prison in a corruption case filed against jailed civilian leader Daw Aung San Suu Kyi and former president U Win Myint over a helicopter rental and purchase deal. While Henry Van Thio was in hospital, T Khun Myat, who served as the Lower House speaker of the ousted NLD government and retained his position after the military takeover, joined the NDSC meeting and seconded Min Aung Hlaings view that prevailing instability warranted a six-month extension of emergency rule. Bahrain-based Al Salam Bank said it has achieved a significant milestone with its recent win of the 'Best Retail Bank in Bahrain award at the MEA Finance Awards - 2022. The MEA Awards, honours banking and financial institutions who are at the forefront of digital transformation and have demonstrated exceptional accomplishments and inspirational leadership. The prestigious award stands testament to Al Salam Bank's continuous efforts in delivering innovative products and services, inspired by a digital-first mindset and a people-centric approach, in creating a refined, rewarding and transformative client experience. The Bahraini bank was recognized amongst the regions leading financing institutions, for its digital transformation achievements, particularly within its retail banking division. With a solutions-oriented philosophy, Al Salam Bank said it remains committed to humanizing the client journey and ensuring a refined client experience through seamless service delivery. The bank has been dedicated to assisting clients in achieving their financial goals by providing personalization, convenience, and efficiency across all its touch points, it added. "We are extremely proud to have been recognized as The Best Retail Bank in Bahrain by an acclaimed awarding body such as MEA Finance. We have consistently focused our investments on elevating the client journey through curated financial solutions and personalized digital banking experiences," remarked Anwar Murad, the Deputy CEO of Banking at Al Salam Bank. "This award will accelerate our drive and I would like to dedicate it to my team for all their efforts and perseverance in pushing the Bank to new heights," he stated. Through the use of data-backed insights and cutting-edge technology, the bank had been able to deliver a diverse portfolio of innovative products and services, and tailored solutions, easily accessible through a variety of digital platforms including Al Salam Banks mobile application, Virtual Branch, WhatsApp and its online chatbot hosted on the website. Head of Retail Banking Mohamed Buhejji said: "Our clients are at the heart of everything we do. We stand firm in our promise to nurture relationships by enriching the clients experiences. We provide them with an unmatched offering that not only facilitates their banking needs but also simplifies their daily life." "We have definitely built strong momentum over the years and this award is proof of our collective commitment to service excellence," he added.-TradeArabia News Service While Song Hye Kyo seemed unbothered by her ex-husband's recent marriage, the public continue to defend the Hallyu queen against the past accusation about her during her divorce from Song Joong Ki. The sought-after actress married her "Descendants of the Sun" co-star who is three years her junior after the two played on-screen lovers. At the time, viewers were thrilled upon hearing that Song Hye Kyo and Song Joong Ki confirmed their relationship status, making their romance reel to real romance. Song Hye Kyo's Marriage and Divorce With Song Joong Ki The power got married in 2017, leaving the public in awe with their K-drama-like love story. Unfortunately, Song-Song fans were devastated after the couple filed their divorce two years after the wedding. At the time, both Song Hye Kyo and Song Joong Ki made headlines along with speculations regarding their relationship. Although they kept mum about the reason, the "Now We Are Breaking Up" star previously mentioned that "the reason [for the divorce] is differences in personality." As noted by a media outlet, her agency revealed that due to this, the couple has decided to part ways. "As the two were unable to overcome their differences, they were forced to come to this decision (the divorce)," the representative explained, adding that they cannot give further details regarding the Song Hye Kyo and Song Joong Ki breakup out of respect of their personal lives. Song Joong Ki's Marriage After Divorce With Song Hye Kyo Almost four years after his marriage to Song Hye Kyo, Song Joong Ki announced that he is dating. A month later, he revealed on his fan cafe that he is married to the British actress Katy Louise Saunders and will be a soon-to-be father. Following Song Joong Ki's remarriage, fans stood by Song Hye Kyo's side after her name got dragged in her ex-husband's relationship status. According to a media outlet, the Korean forum Pann caught everyone's attention after an article about the past relationship between Song Hye Kyo and Song Joong Ki resurfaced. In a post, it brought up the topic of how the actress was constantly criticized during their marriage fallout, saying that "The Gory" star was at fault because "she kept silent." In addition, the article also slammed the media for painting Song Hye Kyio as someone who couldn't live without men and also brought up dating rumors dubbing her as a "seducer." Based on the comment section, netizens seemed to agree with the forum post and mentioned how the actress bounce back from the controversy and now headlining one of the hottest K-dramas, thanks to "The Glory." READ MORE: These Hallyu Top Stars Are Named the Most Good-Looking Celebrities in Real Life KDramastars owns this article Written by Geca Wills In 2021, I spent the year before starting medical school calling and counseling the patients of a busy urban emergency department on the results of their sexually transmitted infection (STI) tests. What exactly is gonorrhea? some would ask. Is there a cure? No one ever taught me about this, one older gentleman lamented when we discussed using condoms to prevent the transmission of infection. Stories like his reflect our societys hesitancy to discuss sex and sexual health. In fact, only thirty U.S. states require public schools to teach sex education, and only twenty-two states require that if provided, sex education must be medically, factually, or technically accurate. Unfortunately, Americas rising STI problem is becoming hard to ignore. Over 2.5 million Americans were diagnosed with an STI in 2021, reaching an all-time high for the 6th consecutive year in a row. Cases of syphilis in the U.S. increased by almost 70 percent between 2017 and 2021, while congenital syphilis in newborns rose by a whopping 185 percent. COVID-19 only added fuel to the fire. As clinics shut down and the public health workforce was diverted to fight the pandemic, people struggled to find places to get tested. In 2020, the National Coalition of STD Directors reported that 66 percent of clinics saw a decrease in sexual health screening. The availability of STI testing isnt the only factor making it difficult for people to get screened. For most Americans, especially the 25 percent without a primary care provider, finding the time to attend a doctors appointment just isnt convenient. Privacy is also key: many people worry about the stigma associated with a visit to the local STI clinic or facing judgment from providers. In a twist of irony, the popularization of at-home COVID-19 testing may offer a possible solution to these barriers. As the concept of self-testing gains widespread acceptance, several nonprofits have started offering free STI screening kits by mail. Online shoppers can also choose from over a dozen kits, including one from CVS that tests for seven separate infections. People collect their samples from the comfort of their homes, mail them in for analysis, and receive results within days. The problem? Except for one HIV test, none of these STI screening kits have been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for home use. This is because most kits on the market are laboratory-developed tests (LDTs) or tests that are created and performed within a single laboratory. An LDT hasnt undergone FDA review: instead, theyre regulated by a different agency, the Centers for Medicaid and Medicare Services (CMS). To get approval, the local clinical laboratory director must validate the LDTs performance data according to CMSs Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA). However, LDTs and FDA-reviewed tests arent held to the same standard. CLIAs regulatory standards dont require the laboratory to prove an LDTs clinical validity or how accurately a test predicts the presence of a given condition. This increases the chance that an inaccurate test could be introduced to the market. Furthermore, the fact that an LDT is only cleared to be run by the lab that developed it limits the number of labs capable of handling home kits. The public health labs wont touch it without the FDAs blessing, explains Jenny Mahn, director of sexual health at the National Coalition of STD Directors. So, does at-home STI testing actually have a future? Yesif kit developers and the FDA work together to increase its oversight of the at-home STI testing industry and provide reliable, FDA-approved options for consumers. Instead of each laboratory collecting validation data and undergoing CMS inspection individually, a test developer must submit performance data to the FDA and apply for clearance of at-home specimen collection as an intended use of the test. This would allow laboratories without the resources for LDT validation to run these tests and expand the availability of at-home testing. The introduction of FDA regulation into the at-home testing market would also set a quality standard to ensure consumers can identify reliable options in an ocean of LDTs. FDA approval would require a developer to prove a tests clinical validity and mandate public reporting of adverse events related to an incorrect test result, among other critical standards. In the eyes of many public health officials, widespread adoption of at-home testing could turn the tide on our battle with STIs. However, the lack of standardization in current regulation protocols creates barriers to its uptake. The FDA must begin to approve at-home STI tests to encourage the growth of this burgeoning industry. Nikki Kasal is a medical student. Taoiseach Leo Varadkar and President of the European Parliament Roberta Metsola have launched the final phase of a major youth competition celebrating 50 years of Irelands membership in the EU. Students from third level institutions are being invited to enter the competition on the subject of the EUs core values - human dignity, freedom, democracy, equality, rule of law, human rights. The winner will be awarded 2,000 and entries can be in the form of a podcast, newspaper column/opinion piece, speech, or a poster. Marking the launch, Taoiseach Leo Varadkar and President of the European Parliament Roberta Metsola met some students from across Third Level institutions in Ireland in the Long Room of the Old Library at Trinity College Dublin. The Taoiseach said: I am delighted to launch the MyEU50 Youth Competition for students in third level institutions. The founding values of the European Union included respect for personal dignity; freedom; democracy; equality; the rule of law and human rights. As we mark 50 years of Irelands membership of the EU through the Governments EU50 programme and as we face the challenges ahead, we need to draw strength and guidance from those values. Through the MyEU50 competition, students will be given the unique opportunity to reflect on the enormous progress made by the EU over the past 50 years, and explore how Ireland can best contribute to the Union over the next 50 years. The President of the European Parliament said: "The MyEU50 competition is a wonderful initiative. Ireland's 50-year membership of the European Union is a success story. It is important that young people from across Ireland be aware of the benefits of EU membership, so that they can avail of the opportunities and rights that the EU brings. Our union is a union of values of freedom, democracy, equality and the rule of law." European Movement Ireland CEO Noelle OConnell said: The MyEU50 youth competition gives students the opportunity to explore their relationship with the EU. Young people are often described in the cliched term as future leaders. I believe they are already the leaders of today. Young people deserve to have their voices heard and this competition allows them to do just that. We are delighted to be working with the Government to roll this competition across the country. For the competition website, please visit MyEU50: Ireland EU50 Youth Competition (europeanmovement.ie) Shenandoah, IA (51601) Today Windy with a mix of clouds and sun. High 83F. Winds S at 20 to 30 mph. Higher wind gusts possible.. Tonight Thunderstorms this evening will give way to steady rain overnight. A few storms may be severe. Low 51F. S winds shifting to NW at 15 to 25 mph. Chance of rain 80%. During the past five years, bilateral trade between Peru and Hong Kong has resulted in a positive trade balance for Peruvian exports . In 2022, our exports reached US$262 million . Este tratado beneficiara a las exportaciones no tradicionales del Peru y contribuira a seguir impulsando la reactivacion del sector ??! Conoce como se vienen desarrollando las negociaciones ?? https://t.co/TlmhuwNXwj pic.twitter.com/4Y2t5v9L6i El Ministerio de Salud informa que 3715 personas han sido dadas de alta por #ViruelaDelMono y se han detectado 5 casos nuevos en los ultimos dias. Todos vienen recibiendo asistencia medica y se viene realizando seguimiento a sus contactos. pic.twitter.com/cHEE89x8Gl If you're interested in submitting a Letter to the Editor, click here. Submit Success! An email has been sent to with a link to confirm list signup. ???????? Fortalecemos lazos para impulsar el intercambio comercial. El titular de la PCM, @AlbertoOtarolaP, se reunio con el embajador de Corea, Yungjoon Jo, a quien detallo la cartera de inversiones y los aportes de la cooperacion en materia de innovacion y transformacion digital. pic.twitter.com/YIFNnds7f5 The file photo shows refugees from South Sudan wait to be settled outside the Khour Al-Waral refugee camp in Al-Salam locality, some 69-kilometers south of Rebek, capital of White Nile State, Sudan, May 18, 2017. (Xinhua/Mohamed Babiker) Some 151,256 South Sudanese refugees voluntarily returned home in 2022 amid the relative security situation in the country, the UN refugee agency said on Friday. JUBA, Feb. 4 (Xinhua) -- Some 151,256 South Sudanese refugees voluntarily returned home in 2022 amid the relative security situation in the country, the UN refugee agency said on Friday. The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) said 627,028 refugees have so far returned home since the signing of the revitalized peace deal in October 2018 to Dec. 31, 2022. "Some 6,845 South Sudanese refugee returnees have been reported in December 2022. This is a significant increase compared to the returns recorded in the month of November 2022," the UNHCR said in its latest update on returns released in the South Sudanese capital of Juba. The file photo shows refugees from South Sudan wait to be settled outside the Khour Al-Waral refugee camp in Al-Salam locality, some 69-kilometers south of Rebek, capital of White Nile State, Sudan, May 18, 2017. (Xinhua/Mohamed Babiker) The UN agency said the increase in the number of refugees returning home is due to improved security in some parts of the country, enabling safe access to spontaneous refugee returns to South Sudan. The UNHCR, which conducted an in-depth household-level survey of returnees across the country on reasons for leaving their country of asylum, said 20 percent of the returnees cited lack of access to basic services, six percent cited lack of employment and livelihood opportunity, and four percent cited insecurity. According to the survey, 12 percent of those who have returned cited an improved security situation in South Sudan and reunion with family members, while one percent cited checking and attending to property as the reasons for their returning home. UNHCR and partners, on a quarterly basis, collect information on refugee returns through key informant interviews, focus group discussions, and partner monitoring reports. There are more than two million refugees from South Sudan hosted in the East Africa region, and another 1.7 million displaced in the country, according to the UNHCR. International Maritime Industries (IMI), the largest shipyard in the region, has signed 10 agreements worth up to SR1.3 billion ($346 million) at this years In-Kingdom Total Value Add 2023 (IKTVA) programme. IMI is a joint venture between leading industry partners Saudi Aramco, Bahri, Lamprell, and Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI), is the largest shipyard in the Mena region at nearly 12 million sq m. It provides new build and maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services for commercial vessels, including VLCCs, Bulk Carriers, Offshore Support Vessels, and Offshore Jackup rigs. Six of the agreements, signed with industry-leading companies ESAB, Gulf Cryo, Euroblast, Acceleron, and ElectroMech, are focused on enhancing IMIs business operations across a range of areas including shipbuilding, ship repair, and marine engineering, said a statement from IMI. The programme provides young Saudi industrial workers with associate degrees in various trades as well as hands-on training. So far, 1,830 have enrolled, with 1,281 having graduated and hired into roles at IMI, it stated. The remaining agreements were signed with leading Saudi training institutions and academies including the National Industrial Training Institute (NITI), Saudi Petroleum Services Polytechnic (SPSP), National Maritime Academy (NMA), and National Power Academy (NPA), to support, enhance, and further expand IMIs apprenticeship program. Located at Ras Al Khair on Saudi Arabias eastern seaboard, IMI is the largest maritime facility in the region, with global ambitions and reach. IMIs full-service yard will be capable of building four new offshore rigs and more than 43 vessels including VLCCs per year, as well as providing maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) services for more than 260 maritime products. On the strategic agreements, CEO Dr Abdullah Al Ahmari said: "These agreements reflect IMI's commitment to driving the growth of the Saudi maritime industry and contributing to the Kingdoms localization goals. By partnering with leading companies and training institutions we are actively expanding our capabilities and service offering to establish IMI as a Saudi maritime leader and key contributor to Vision 2030." "IMI was pleased to showcase its latest products and services at IKTVA through an exhibition stand and panel sessions with members of its executive management team," he added. IMIs Chairman of the Board of Directors Ahmed Al Saadi, visited and showed appreciation for IMIs stand, alongside IMI CEO Dr Abdullah Al Ahmari, who attended the event and met senior executives from across the maritime industry. IKTVA is an annual event hosted by Saudi Aramco that aims to promote localization and the development of local content in Saudi Arabia, while encouraging discussions around the future of the global maritime sector.-TradeArabia News Service YEREVAN, FEBRUARY 4, ARMENPRESS. Cancer is not a death sentence, its time for this slogan to become entirely real, Armenian Healthcare Minister Anahit Avanesyan said at the 3rd Armenian Oncology Congress dedicated to World Cancer Day. Avanesyan said they are doing everything so that Armenia doesnt lag behind any developed country in the prevention, early-diagnosis and treatment of cancer. In 2023, the new fully-equipped radiation treatment facility will be launched. Cancer diagnosis and treatment will become more accessible after the complete introduction of the insurance system, Avanesyan added, noting that oncology surgeries for malignant tumors are now free of charge in Armenia, however patients still pay for chemotherapy medications, some tests and surgeries for benign tumors. Leading oncologists from Russia, United States, Iran and European countries are participating in the 3rd Armenian Oncology Congress. Bullying has been a big problem in the United States since time immemorial. With a video about bullying in Homestead, Florida going viral, Dallas Cowboys linebacker Micah Parsons is speaking out. What is happening to our youth man. This shit so sad!! https://t.co/kHYDyx9SB3 Micah Parsons (@MicahhParsons11) February 3, 2023 The video showed two boys beating up a 9-year-old girl inside a school bus while other students can be seen trying to stop the attack. Parsons said the incident is "so sad" and asked "what is happening" to the youth now? The video showed several kids arguing before one of them starts pummeling a young girl. A second student joined in on the attack and also started hitting the little girl. Florida Mother Is Pressing Charges Against Bullies Shortly after the video went viral, the mother of the 9-year-old girl who was attacked said she was pressing charges against the two boys who attacked her daughter, who is a third-grade student at Coconut Palm K-8 Academy in Homestead, Florida. According to local South Florida ABC affiliate, Local 10 News, the Miami-Dade Fire Rescue responded to the incident shortly after at around 4:10 p.m. Wednesday. The fire department officials stated that they assessed two of the children inside the school bus for injuries before releasing them to their parents. The mother said that the bus was overfilled with all ages inside. She also criticized the two adults on the bus, the driver and the bus aide, for just sitting in front and doing nothing. READ MORE: Hundreds of Migrant Children Separated by Donald Trump Policy Now Reunited With Parents The mother, who spoke with Local 10 News, stated that she is very upset and disappointed with what has happened, adding, "This violence has got to stop. It's starting from somewhere. Parents need to do more and pay more attention to their children that's causing these violent acts." She revealed that her daughter has only attended the school since January, together with two other children. The bullied girl's mother added that she has already complained to the school administration about the bullying that has been happening, as it affected her two eldest children. However, she says that the school administration, including the principal, assistant principal, and a counselor have done nothing about it. The principal even told her that they are overwhelmed and that they are advising her to withdraw her children from school. She also said that her son also suffered incidences of bullying not just on the bus, but also in the cafeteria and at dismissal. She has since taken the matter to the school district, but they only advised her to speak with the principal. Bully Who Attacked Girl on the School Bus Arrested The mother also talked to CBS Miami and said that her son was also bullied and attacked in the incident. She then revealed that she has now pulled her children out of the school. As for the two bullies, they were arrested shortly after the incident. The Miami-Dade County Public Schools released a statement regarding the viral video and it reads, "Miami-Dade Schools Police arrested the offender and they will be charged accordingly. Additionally, those involved will be disciplined according to the code of student conduct." READ NEXT: Real-life Pirates of the Caribbean Sentenced to Death This article is owned by Latin Post. Written by: Rick Martin WATCH: 9-year-old girl attacked on school bus in Homestead - WPLG Local 10 El Salvador is opening a mega prison as President Nayib Bukele escalates crackdown on violent street gangs like MS-13 and Barrio 18, which has come into intense scrutiny from human rights groups. According to the Daily Mail, the new facility, one of the largest in Latin America, was built to house 40,000 suspected gang members, relieving the overpopulation in some of the country's prisons. Ecuador's war on gangs has detained some 63,000 suspected criminals in just 10 months under a state of emergency that was supposed to last 30 days. Known as the Terrorism Confinement Center, it will be guarded by more than 800 soldiers and police officers and is expected to double the country's incarceration capacity. Built near Tecoluca, about 72 kilometers southeast of the capital San Salvador, the mega prison complex covers roughly 166 hectares and is described as a high-tech prison facility. The gang crackdown has reportedly led to El Salvador having the highest incarceration rates in the world, with roughly 2% of the adult population now behind bars. In April 2021, the government reported that the country's 29 prisons were at 120% of their capacity READ NEXT: El Salvador to Host Next Miss Universe Pageant What the New El Salvador Mega Prison Will Have in Store for Inmates The El Salvador government said the Terrorism Confinement Center will be far from urban areas. Public Works Minister Romeo Rodriguez noted that some Salvadoran prisons were built near schools, hospitals, and residential buildings. The mega prison will be a facility of its own equipped with eight electric substations, two water wells, a sewage-treatment plant, and five kilometers of access roads, according to La Prensa Latina. It will also have tight security, with guards and other staff going through various security checks, including body scanners, to verify that they are not carrying weapons or contraband. Rodriguez noted that telephones, televisions, and even prostitutes have previously entered the prison, but with this new facility, they would not be able to do that. The facility also boasts 19 watchtowers, all complemented by thermal surveillance cameras that can detect movement. However, unlike most prisons, inmates would not be allowed out of their cells unless they will go to the infirmary or have hearings. "No yards have been built, nor recreation area for the inmates, nor conjugal spaces," Rodriguez said. Critics Find El Salvador President Nayib Bukele's Punishment Worrisome El Salvador's new mega-prison and Nayib Bukele's new focus on punishing gang members have worried many human rights groups. It was recently reported that authorities also arrested innocent young men accused of being gang members due to their appearance or living in a gang-controlled territory. Carolina Jimenez, president of the Latin America-focused non-governmental organization WOLA, said with this prison, the Bukele administration shows it does not have clear plans to prevent crime as the president's "main choice is a permanent state of 'exception' in which they commit human rights violations." Another critic, Rev. Andreu Oliva, rector of the Jesuit-founded Central American University in San Salvador, told the Associated Press that the focus on punishment was worrisome. "It shook me to see punishment cells where the people are going to be in total darkness, total isolation, sleeping on a concrete slab," Oliva noted. He also criticized the prison's lack of libraries or rooms for education or training, saying that the facility would not help prisoners who wanted to leave criminal life. Bukele downplayed the criticisms and said that critics are gang defenders. His gang crackdown has been widely popular so far, as gangs like MS-13 have long terrorized the population with violence, killings, and extortions. In 2015, there were reportedly 6,656 homicides in El Salvador. However, the number lowered to 3,495 homicides last year, the lowest in decades. READ MORE: El Salvador: Military and Police Surround Town to Root Out MS-13 Gang Members This article is owned by Latin Post. Written by: Rick Martin WATCH: MS-13's Active Members Are Laughing At Trump's Crackdown (HBO) - From Vice News Laois poet Laura Murphy was among a stellar lineup at a special celebration of womens contributions to Irish music and culture as part of the Brigid's Day celebration. Nothing Compares: A Celebration of Irish Women Artists was organised by Hot Press magazine and Kildare County Council to celebrate Brigids Day as a new public holiday. Portlaoise woman Laura Murphy, the Herstory Poet in Residence, is one of the key players in the Brigids Day campaign. She performed performed a tribute poem to Brigid. As was customary in pre-Christian Ireland, Laura in her role as Poet officially honoured President Michael D. Higgins and First Woman Sabina by dedicating her poem Is Mise Brid to them as embodiments of Brigid. I use an ancient practice from the poets of Ireland called Imbas Forosnai when writing. It is an old Irish term which means inspiration that illuminates. It was a gift of the Goddess Brigid. The poets of Ireland used to honour Brigid to draw down poetic inspiration so that their words would be infused with wisdom and illumination to help the high kings lead in right-relationship with the people and the land. I would like to dedicate Is Mise Brid to Sabina Higgins and her husband President Michael D. Higgins who are the embodiments of Brigid on this land at this time. They are leaders that we all can aspire to be. The people of Europe and the world can look to our leaders, here in Ireland, for inspiration. This is a thanks for leading the way with imbas and gra, compassion, truth and inspiration. What a momentous day for Ireland, she said. Sabina and Laura embraced as the audience roused in joyous applause. Sabina, a lifelong activist and champion of womens rights reflected upon the power of the poem in her address. We are privileged to be all here together for what has been the most wonderful evening inaugurating Brigid. We had the presence of the Goddess herself with the blessing that was going on around us when Laura Murphy was doing her performance. It was on a par with the Song of Amergin. All of nature. It wasnt just a spiritual Goddess, it was all of Earth. It was Gaia herself and Earth. It filled us all with love and blessing. "It was echoed in so many of the other songs and great performances. It has been a wonderful, memorable night. Thank you Hot Press and everybody, she said. Mairin Sheehy, co-founder of Hot Press, organised and ran the event which also featured performances by Imelda May, Eleanor McEvoy, Tolu Makay, Susan ONeill, Mary Stokes, Megan O'Neill, Gemma Dunleavy. Nothing Compares: A Celebration of Irish Women Artists really was a very special occasion, full of powerful and moving performances from all of the artists. It was exactly the kind of beautiful moment we had hoped would happen, when Herstory poet-in-residence Laura Murphy and Sabina Higgins embraced in a spontaneous gesture of affection and respect onstage. It turned out to be a night full of gorgeous, emotional moments that the people who were in the audience will cherish forever making it a truly fitting celebration of the inspirational spirit of Brigid," she said. When actress Siobhan McSweeney asked in the RTE documentary Are there any modern day Brigids?, Laura Murphy answered Yes, our last three presidents - Mary Robinson, Mary McAleese and Michael D. Higgins. Because men can be embodiments of Brigid too. Laura Murphy is a poet, activist and communications strategist whose work is centred around the ancient Irish poetic practice of Imbas Forosnai which means inspiration that illuminates. Lauras work has been featured in the critically-acclaimed production Home: Part One by the Abbey Theatre, the Herstory Light Shows and most recently in the campaign to make Brigids Day a national holiday. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has postponed a planned high-stakes weekend diplomatic trip to China as the Biden administration weighs a broader response to the discovery of a high-altitude Chinese balloon flying over sensitive sites in the western United States, two diplomatic sources tell CBS News, the latter reported. February 4, 2023, 09:57 Blinken postpones planned China visit as Chinese balloon flies over western US STEPANAKERT, FEBRUARY 4, ARTSAKHPRESS: The decision came despite China's claim that the balloon was a weather research satellite that had blown off course. The U.S. has described it as a surveillance satellite. The trip was called off just hours before Blinken was due to depart Washington for Beijing and heightened the strain on U.S.-Chinese relations. By Friday morning, the balloon was no longer over Montana, but had moved over the Midwest, according to a U.S. official. It's not going to run out of fuel, since it has solar panels. The Pentagon is still considering ways to "dispose" of it but has "grave concerns" about the damage it would cause if it fell to earth. U.S. government lawyers regard this as a violation of U.S. air space. The discovery of the balloon was announced on Thursday by Pentagon officials who said one of the places where it was spotted was over the state of Montana, which is home to one of America's three nuclear missile silo fields at Malmstrom Air Force Base. Blinkens meetings in China were to begin on Sunday and go through Monday. An aspiring law student has been ordered to pay 7,500 in compensation for her part in orchestrating a "hair-brained" and "bizarre" scheme by enlisting a gang of youths to tie her former boyfriend up and violently assault him during the course of an alleged aggravated burglary. Jennifer Patrick, aged 19, 6 Dun Darrach, Dublin Road, Longford, told a sitting of how she never believed her actions would go as far as they did following an incident at 2 Holly Green, Clonbalt Woods, Longford on August 20, 2020, which left her former partner Paul Adetunji with injuries to his face and knee. Ms Patrick, aged 17 at the time of the offence, was charged with burglary following the incident and making a false statement to gardai. She pleaded guilty to the burglary charge last July while a nolle prosequi was entered by the State in connection to the latter charge. The Midlands Circuit Court was told Nigerian native Ms Patrick, who now resides in the UK, had been forced to relocate to the UK due to the breakdown in relationship with her peers and the fact two of her brothers no longer speak to her as a result. State prosecuting counsel, Shane Geraghty BL, said three co-accused teenagers currently before the courts had pleaded guilty to theft but not to aggravated burglary owing to their insistence no knife was produced in the commission of the offence. Judge Keenan Johnson was told Ms Patrick had contacted Mr Adejunji on the day in question under the "false pretense" of giving the victim 80. Mr Geraghty said while Mr Adejunji was left confused by this request, he agreed. It was revealed Ms Patrick was upset over the recent ending of the pair's relationship and when she arrived at the victim's rented property, the accused intimated to Mr Adetunji that she had to go back outside to retrieve some lipstick and, in so doing, asked for the victim's room key. When she returned, the court heard Ms Patrick began kissing Mr Adejunji and moments later witnessed three unidentified males enter his bedroom. Mr Adejunji told gardai at the time how the trio attacked him and immediately shouted: "Where is the money?". Despite his own attempts to fend off the gang, Mr Adetunji was forced onto a chair with his hands tied behind his back with black cable ties. A sock was also placed in the victim's mouth to prevent him from shouting for help, the court heard. Giving evidence, Detective Garda Orla Geraghty said Mr Adetunji told her during interview how he had been left suspicious by Ms Patrick's demeanor, adding that while she "didn't seem frightened", one of the assailants called her by the tennager's first name. Detective Garda Geraghty said Mr Adetunji felt he had been "set up" by Ms Patrick. "He (Mr Adetunji) felt she was faking it," she said. "He said he was going to the garda station and she said: 'Please don't go' as she would get in trouble." Mr Adetunji suffered cuts to his lip and an injury to his knee as a consequence of the ordeal, it was revealed. A voluntary cautioned witness statement was taken from Ms Patrick in August 2020 during which the accused indicated she too had received a punch to the face from one of the men. She also told gardai how she had been left distressed following the relationship and how she had been treated. Det Garda Geraghty said she admitted holding a conversation with one of the co accused, telling him: "I just want him bet." It was revealed, however, that Ms Patrick never made a complaint to gardai about any "more sinister elements to the relationship". The court heard on the day of the incident, the three youths arrived in Longford Train Station after travelling from Dublin. Det Garda Geraghty said she had been left satisfied as to Ms Patrick's level of involvement in the incident. "As far as I could see, it (incident) was done purposely to make out she (Ms Patrick) was a victim in all of this," she said, adding Ms Patrick was cable tied to the front with Mr Adejunji having his hands tied behind his back. In defence, Dara Foynes SC said Ms Patrick and Mr Adetunji had since "made peace". She added her client would suffer a high degree of "social appropbrium" with her name likely to be published and had endured significant hardship in attempting to further her own aspirations as a lawyer. "She has effectively left Longford and lost all her friends over this," said Ms Foynes. "She had to cease her college studies because she needed to get garda clearance to continue her studies." A letter of apology was also handed in, the contents of which Ms Patrick read out in open court. "To Paul, I am sorry for everything that took place," she said. "Robbery was never my intention." Under direct questioning from Judge Johnson, Ms Patrick said it was the toxicity of her relationship with her ex boyfriend which ultimately led to the incident. "He hurt me a lot and I wanted to hurt him too," she said. "I have apologised to Paul and we have made peace with each other. I regret it so much. I wish I didn't do what I done. I am just really sorry." Judge Johnson described the entire planning of the incident from start to finish was "hair-brained" and "one of the most bizarre cases" he has ever come across as a circuit court judge. He adjourned the case until October 3 and ordered Ms Patrick to return to court with 7,500. In the event she adheres to those terms, he indicated he would apply Section 1(2) of the Probation Act. School children around Laois and Kildare gathered for the first time in over two years to compete in the People First Credit Union School Quiz held at the Abbeyleix Manor Hotel on Monday, January 30. A total of 29 competed in the two-section quiz. Photograher Michael Scully was there for the Leinster Express / Laois Live. Tap next or arrow to see more pictures or read more about the quiz below picture. Competition A: Under 11 - for entrants aged 10 or younger on 31st December 2022. The winners were Scoil Mhicil Naofa Athy. Competition B: Under 13 - for entrants aged 12 or younger on 31st December 2022. The overall winners were the Athy Model School. The winning teams from the A&B category will now go to the regional finals from March 3 to 5. The winning teams from the regional stage will then make it through to the Grand Final at the RDS, Dublin in April 2023. Here they will be pitted in a nerve-wracking battle of the wits against a number of other formidable teams of four. All teams will have their eye on the prize with a total of 4,000 up for grabs for the overall winning schools. Carol Murphy, Head of Marketing at People First Credit Union, spoke about the quiz. We are delighted to have the quiz back this year. Its a fantastic opportunity for schools in the Laois/Kildare area to nurture a culture of partnership among students. A core focus of this event is for children to gain experience in teamwork to help equip them with the skills necessary for successful teamwork in the future. Questions covered a wide range of topics including geography, history, music, literature and sport, she said. The schools which took part in this year's People First Quiz were: Gaelscoil Portlaoise, Ratheniska NS, Timahoe NS, The Heath NS, Scoil Bhride Portlaoise, Scoil Mhuire Abbeyleix, Shanahoe NS, Scoil Phadraig Naofa Athy, Knock NS, Ballacolla NS, Gaelscoil Athy, Churchtown NS Athy, St Colman's Stradbally, Holy Family Senior, Portlaoise. A new type of mobile phone mast erected in Durrow nearly five years ago is set to be removed according to the local development committee which has welcomed the decision by the company involved. Durrow Development Forum says they are pleased to confirm that the mast is on the way out. "Cignal (Cellnex) have delivered on their commitment to remove the mast installed in March 2019. This was the result of several constructive meetings between DDF and Cignal regarding the visual impact at the Barnhill/Kilkenny Road location," the said. The DDF explained why they are satisfied it is going. "Structurally it was an eyesore on a gateway into our village which has been working over the past number of years to preserve and enhance Durrow as a Heritage and Tourism destination. DDF are delighted that Cignal (Cellnex) have taken the feedback of the community and the mast has now been removed," they said. The mast was one of 10 erected in Laois by Cignal, an independent provider of communications infrastructure that leases spaces on the towers to mobile and broadband industries. Cignal bought 300 existing communications masts from Coillte, and planned a 25 million investment to construct 300 more, mainly in rural areas, to improve signal coverage for mobile phones and broadband in Ireland. The company said in 2019 that the tower was fully compliant with planning regulations and was important infrastructure that will allow mobile phone and broadband operators offer improved connectivity to Durrow residents. While it said the response received in other Laois locations was overwhelmingly positive, they would work to address the concerns raised in Durrow. A chance meeting in a chipper, weeks of detective work and the magic of social media resulted in a recent Brigidine Convent, Mountrath reunion. The last time they were all together, Jack Charltons team were on their way to Italy and Ireland was still to elect its first female president, but the years disappeared as soon as the Class of 1990 met for the first time since their schooldays. TAP NEXT or ARROW to see more PICTURES taken by Heather Rice OR READ more about how they got on below the picture. The reunion took place in what is now the Liath Luachra Suite at Bloom HQ - better known to the classmates as the chapel of the former Brigidine Convent. Over half of the class, day pupils and boarders, travelled back to the convent on January 28th from all over Ireland and the UK to catch up with each other and check out whats been happening in their alma mater. They enjoyed a sit-down meal catered by Phelans Catering Service, Mountrath, and had the opportunity to explore the changes in the convent and school buildings since the handover of the keys by the Brigidine Sisters to the Mountrath Community Forum. There was huge admiration for the modernised and re-purposed Bloom HQ facilities, and also a visit to some of the older sections including classrooms and dormitories. A slideshow of photos and memorabilia compiled by the group in advance prompted many memories, including those of much-missed classmate Rachel McCarthy, formerly Kehoe, who passed away in 2017 following a long and brave battle with illness. In her memory, over 600 was collected for the Irish Kidney Association in tribute to Rachel and the McCarthy and Kehoe families. The Class of 1990 wish to express their huge thanks to Emma Cahill and all the team at Bloom HQ, to Phelans Catering and to photographer, Heather Rice, who documented the event. Celebrating 60 years' involvement in drama, well known Blessington writer/actor, Richard Lynch has begun a revival tour of one of his most popular shows, From the Shoulders Down. Cleverly scripted and performed by Richard, the show has previously been staged all over Ireland, parts of England and as far away as Canada, at the London Fringe Festival, Ontario and North Quebec. Winning rave reviews at many venues, it comes to Kilteel Community Hall as part of Kilteel St Brigids Arts Festival on Monday February 6 at 8pm. The play tells the story of PJ Mulpeter. Now sixty-five years of age, he hails from somewhere in the midlands. He begins his final working day as a builders labourer, having soldiered for fifty years under the same construction firm Murray and Sons Construction working under three different generations of the same family. In a reflective mood, he casts a backward glance at the highs and lows of his career on the pick and shovel. We meet him in the school classroom, his first flush of youth, digging foundations, mixing concrete, at the marquee dances, in the pub and the characters from building sites who shaped the pattern of his early life. Most notably, The Hat Reilly, a plasterer supreme, and the upstart who wouldnt be fit to wash the trowel after him, his boss Oul Murray, his close associate Larry the Lick himself, and the girl of his dreams, who stole his heart while they danced to Eileen Reid and the Cadets. Here you will meet a character who makes immediate impact with an audience. To say more would reveal too much and spoil the mystique. Dont miss it.. Tickets 10. Booking on 087-7914205. Former Sex Pistols frontman John Lydon and his band Public Image Ltd (PiL) have failed in their bid to represent Ireland at the Eurovision Song Contest. The post-punk group, formed in 1978, entered the song Hawaii, described as a love letter to Lydons wife of nearly 50 years, Nora, who has Alzheimers disease. But on a special Eurosong edition of RTEs The Late Late Show on Friday night, a combination of votes from a national and international jury and public telephone votes selected the song We Are One by the band Wild Youth as the Irish entry for the contest. The winning song narrowly defeated Midnight Summer Night by Connolly, with PiLs song finishing in fourth position from six finalists. The other acts included Andrew Carr (also known as ADGY), Leila Jane, and the duo K Muni & ND, made up of Kofi Appiah and Nevlonne Dampare. Speaking at the start of the show, Lydon, 67, said: This song we pieced together to try and tell the story as genuinely as we could without breaking down in tears. It is going to be a difficult one for me tonight. I recommend Hawaii to everyone for a holiday because it is the best Alzheimers cure. After Lydon, formerly known as Johnny Rotten, performed his song on the show it was given a lukewarm reception by a panel of experts, which included former X-Factor contestants and Irish Eurovision entrants Jedward. John from Jedward said: The song comes from a place of love, acceptance and calmness. A delicate song might stand out if it did go to Eurovision. It is heartbreaking what is happening with his wife. Edward added: I am not so sure it is a song for Eurovision. Wild Youth singer Conor ODonohoe said it was a huge honour to be selected to represent Ireland. He said: Thank you to everyone who voted for us, we are overwhelmed, we hope everyone can get behind the song and that we can do everyone in Ireland proud. We want to thank all of our families, they have supported us from day one. Lydon, who was born in London to Irish parents, formed PiL following the break-up of the Sex Pistols in 1978, alongside guitarist Keith Levene, bassist Jah Wobble and drummer Jim Walker. Their debut album, First Issue, was released in December that year and showcased a post-punk sound combining prog rock, dub and dance music. After a 17-year hiatus, Lydon reformed the group in 2009 with a new line-up, touring worldwide and releasing two albums. The group currently consists of Lydon plus guitarist Lu Edmonds, drummer Bruce Smith and bassist Scott Firth. Eurovision will be held in May at the ACC Liverpool after the UK was named runner-up at the 2022 event with Sam Ryder. The EBU concluded Ukraine could not host the event due to the Russian invasion, despite its entrant, Kalush Orchestra, coming first. Ireland will perform in the first semi-final on May 9 ahead of the final on May 13. Riot police stand guard outside the Evaristo Vasquez Police Complex, known as "El Chipote", where Nicaraguan pre-presidential candidate Juan Sebastian Chamorro remains detained, in Managua on June 30, 2021. STR / AFP "Guilty." On Wednesday, January 18, a Nicaraguan court found a Franco-Nicaraguan mother and daughter, along with the husband of the first, guilty of conspiracy against the integrity of the nation and spreading fake news on social networks by a Nicaraguan court on Wednesday 18 January. They have been behind bars in El Chipote prison in Managua since September 2022, and their sentence will be handed down on January 26. The prosecution requested eight years in prison each for 63-year-old Jeannine Horvilleur and her 43-year-old daughter Ana Carolina Alvarez, and 10 years for Felix Roiz. This sentence is part of the repressive spiral unleashed by President Daniel Ortega. It has already been directed at political activists, journalists, members of the Catholic clergy and many civil society actors in Nicaragua. The three defendants the wife, daughter and son-in-law of presidential opponent, Javier Alvarez Zamora were arrested without a warrant on September 13, 2022, detained, prosecuted and convicted out of sight of prying eyes. The hearing was secret, no one close to them was able to attend," said Alvarez Zamora, who was contacted by telephone by Le Monde. "The judge had the nerve to justify his decision to deny them access to the trial by arguing that he did not want to subject them to intense stress due to the seriousness of the accusations and the testimony!" French Embassy services asked to meet with the two women, but in vain. Read more Article reserve a nos abonnes In Nicaragua, 'the entire civil society has been criminalized' According to messages they have allegedly posted on social media, Roiz and the two French women dispute the veracity of the accusations against them. "They have not committed any act against national sovereignty," said Alvarez Zamora. "It was all a set up by the police, they accused them of writing things and having contacts that they didn't." An appeal is theoretically possible, but no one has any illusions about its chances of lightening the judgment. "In 100% of cases, for political prisoners, the appeal confirms the judges' decision," said Zamora. Political prisoners Horvilleur and Alvarez were arrested on September 13 when police forces came at night to arrest their husband and father, who was absent from the home at the time and who succeeded in fleeing the country. Alvarez Zamora was in the regime's line of fire for having defended people who had participated in the April 2018 protests, which demanded Ortega resign. El Chipote the prison in which they are held and which houses about 50 of the country's more than 200 political prisoners is known for execrable conditions of incarceration resembling torture (isolation, sensory deprivation of light, in particular). For example, this is the prison where 67-year-old Dora Maria Tellez a former comrade-in-arms of Daniel Ortega in the Sandinista guerrilla war against the dictatorship of the Somoza family is being held incommunicado. She opposed the authoritarian drift of the head of state, who was in power between 1979 and 1990 and again since 2007. You have 13.57% of this article left to read. The rest is for subscribers only. A LIMERICK MAN who broke into a number of houses and cars in the Nenagh area has been jailed for a total 16 months. Darragh Manning, of Apt 2 Silver Street, Nenagh but who is originally from Limerick city, pleaded to a total of 20 charges relating to theft, trespass, burglary and interfering with cars between September 4, 2019, and 28 November, 2022. Nenagh District Court heard Mr Manning has been in custody since November 29, 2022. Judge Patricia Cronin was told that on September 4, 2019, a car was broken into at Davitt Street, Tipperary Town, and was later found crashed. Mr Manning was linked to the incident. On December 1, 2020, Mr Manning was caught on CCTV breaking into a car at ORahilly Street car park in Nenagh. 20 in cash and property valued at 80 which was taken from the vehicle was not recovered. On November 25, 2022, a car was taken from a driveway in Newport and Mr Manning was identified as the culprit. While the car was recovered, it was not drivable. On the same day, Mr Manning called to a petrol station at Ciamalta Road, Nenagh, to buy fuel and was observed in the vehicle taken from Newport. He was driving while disqualified and had no insurance. On November 27, 2022, he stole a bicycle at Shamrock Court, Nenagh. The bike was never recovered. He had brought the bike to a friends apartment and was identified through CCTV. On the same date, a car was ransacked overnight in Shamrock Court and a wallet containing 500 stolen. The cash was not recovered. On the same date, he entered a home at Thomond Place, Nenagh, and stole car keys, leaving by the front door. Mr Manning went through the property and was disturbed by the owner. The court heard Mr Manning had spoken to a child in the house. He was identified through a backpack that he left behind. Again on the same date he entered a property at The Courtyard, Nenagh, and stole two car keys which were not recovered. On November 28, 2022, he stole a bike in MacDonagh Street, Nenagh, The bike was recovered but was damaged. On the same occasion, he stole a purse with 94 in cash in it from a car parked outside a takeaway in Silver Street, Nenagh. The owner had left the car open while she went into the takeaway, the court was told. On the same date, Mr Manning was observed interfering with a car at Tobar Mhuire, Nenagh, and the vehicles owner later said that 300 in cash had been taken. While looking for Mr Manning, gardai observed him trespassing at a premises on Mitchel Street, Nenagh. On November 28, 2022, Mr Manning stole items valued at 39 from Mr Price, Martyrs Road, Nenagh, and then broke into a car where he left the stolen items but took a gift card from the vehicle. He also pleaded to failing to appear in court on November 24, 2022. Mr Manning further pleaded to the theft of a ring and a gold chain valued at 760 at Nenagh Manor Nursing Home, on a date in November. The property was not recovered. Mr Mannings solicitor, David Peters, told the court that his client had been under the influence of drugs at the time of the offences on November 28 and Mr Manning couldnt recall what he had done. He has an appalling history of drug abuse that goes back to when he was just 10 years old. He is still only 22, said Mr Peters. The solicitor said in mitigation that Mr Manning had entered guilty pleas at an early stage and had apologised to everyone involved. He was working and when he leaves jail that job is open to him again, he said. Judge Cronin, in her sentencing, pointed out that there had been people in properties that Mr Manning had entered, including two children. She jailed Mr Manning for a total of 16 months, and disqualified him from driving for four years for no insurance at Ciamalta Road. The sentences were backdated to November 29, the day Mr Manning was taken into custody. The judge refused to suspend any part of the sentences but set recognizance in Mr Mannings own bond of 200 and an independent surety of 1,000 to be approved by the court. STUDENTS from three Limerick schools have reached the national finals of the Team Maths 2023 competition out of a total of 23 schools in Ireland. Colaiste Ide agus Iosef in Abbeyfeale, Scoil Pol in Kilfinane and Castletroy College in Annacotty all participated in the competition which took place recently. The competition, run by the Irish Mathematics Teachers Association (IMTA), challenges a team of four senior cycle students to compete together and solve equations, based on the higher level Leaving Certificate syllabus. Students were allocated six minutes to solve each problem and all three Limerick teams were successful in their efforts to ascend to the national final. Niall Twomey, mentor and teacher of the Abbeyfeale team, said: It is brilliant practice for the students before their Leaving Cert mock exams which are taking place next week. It is fantastic for the school to be recognised academically and it is something we are excited to be involved in going forward." Castletroy College shone bright on the day of the regional competition, with its team scoring the highest in Ireland. Previously, the school had two students travel as far as Oslo, Norway to participate in an international mathematics Olympiad in July, 2022. Teacher Gary Ryan said: Its great to see them rewarded because they put in a lot of work - the most impressive thing is that the regional stage of the competition took place during the week of their pre-exams. They are great problem solvers and we hope they go all the way. added Gary. The third and final Limerick school to whizz its way to the national finals was Scoil Pol in Kilfinane. Teacher Aine Kelly, commented: It is a great opportunity for the students and a great environment for them to work with other students with similar interests. They will be looking forward to another day out in early March, as am I. Almost 200 secondary schools took part in the competition with the Limerick quiz being held in at Crescent College Comprehensive in the city. The finalists, including the representatives of the three Limerick schools, will compete on March 4, for the national trophy and recognition that comes with it. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu told French President Emmanuel Macron that covert Israeli operations against Iran end up helping other countries, including Ukraine. February 4, 2023, 10:22 Netanyahu tells Macron that Israeli operations against Iran help Ukraine STEPANAKERT, FEBRUARY 4, ARTSAKHPRESS: According to him, Jerusalem "acts independently against Iran on various levels, but these activities are also systematically aimed at reducing or damaging the capabilities" of that Islamic republic against Israel. "Of course, it also damages or diminishes Iran's capabilities against other countries," the prime minister said. He also said he was concerned about the growing cooperation between Russia and Iran. On February 2, Macron and Netanyahu met in Paris to discuss measures to contain Iran in the Middle East. New Delhi: Chocolate company Ferrero has on-boarded Ranveer Singh as the brand ambassador of its hazelnut cocoa spread brand Nutella. Singh will promote the Nutella brand across digital and offline media as well as feature in the brands campaigns, Ferrero said in a statement on Saturday. The Ferrero Group sells brands such as Kinder, Nutella, Ferrero Rocher and Tic Tac in India. Ferrero Group is one of the worlds largest sweet-packaged food companies, with over 35 brands sold in more than 170 countries. We are delighted to have Ranveer Singh onboard as our brand endorser for India market. His personality exemplifies energy which is in absolute sync with the brands ethos. This, combined with his famous love for Nutella makes this announcement even more exciting for us. Leveraging the actors strong connect with our consumers, we have a lot of exciting engagements lined up with Nutella," said Zoher Kapuswala, marketing head, Nutella brands, Ferrero India. Singh was recently seen in the film 21. The actor will be next seen in Karan Johars Rocky Aur Rani Ki Prem Kahani. The star, whose over-the-top style often makes headlines, endorses brands such as Adidas Originals, Nivea, MakeMyTrip, among others. Singh is also an investor- last year, he invested in direct-to-consumer beauty startup Sugar Cosmetics. Singh will be seen in the upcoming World Nutella Day campaign that will go live on 5 February in India. The campaign will be launched on the brands social pages including Instagram, Facebook as well as YouTube. The government has passed an order to convert adjusted gross revenue (AGR) dues of telecom services provider, Vodafone Idea into equities for nearly 16,133.2 crore. This conversion of AGR dues into equities is likely to make the Centre the largest shareholder in the loss-making telecom services provider. Vodafone Idea shares closed in the green on Friday at 6.89 apiece up by 1.03% on BSE. The stock has rallied for second consecutive day. Its market cap is around 22,129.89 crore on the Dalal Street. Makarand Joshi, founding partner, of MMJC and Associates a corporate compliance firm said, "Though the government stake in Vodafone Idea will rise to 33 percent, which is over and above the 26 percent mark that triggers an open offer under SEBI regulations, the capital market regulator had in May 2022 itself had exempted the government from making an open offer." At present, the promoter and promoter group in Vodafone Idea holds a 74.99% stake, while public shareholding is at 25.01% as of December 31, 2022. Post this transaction, the promoter's shareholding will trim down to 50%. Joshi added, "Classifying the proposed stake by the government as public shareholding, the regulator in its then order, had stated that the acquisition by the government is proposed with the sole intent of saving the larger public interest without any objective of taking control of the telecom operator." On Saturday, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman in a press conference explained that the government is not bearing Vodafone Idea's debt. The telco is not in a position to pay it due to the government, and hence, they are taking its equity shares. She added that this means the Centre is the shareholder in the company, and when it will gain profit so will they. In its regulatory filing on Friday, Vodafone Idea said, "Ministry of Communications, Government of India has, in line with the Reforms and Support Package for Telecom Sector communicated earlier and the conversion option exercised by the Company as provided for therein, passed an order..., directing the Company to convert the NPV of the interest related to deferment of spectrum auction instalments and AGR Dues into equity shares to be issued to the Government of India." It added, "The total amount to be converted into equity shares is 16133,18,48,990. The Company has been directed to issue 1613,31,84,899 equity shares of the face value of 10 each at an issue price of Rs. 10 each." Earlier, in March, Vodafone Group and Aditya Birla Group, promoters of the cash-trapped telco infused 4,500 crore which is part of the proposed 25,000 crore fundraising from investors - followed by another equity investment of 436 crore in July by Euro Pacific Securities, a Vodafone Group Plc entity. Vodafone Idea has a whopping debt of 2.2 trillion as of September 31, 2022. The company has been struggling to raise funding to the tune of 20,000 crore in a combination fo equity and debt since 2021. Last week, on January 31st, Vodafone Idea's board approved the preferantial issuance of upto 16,000 Indian Rupee denominated optionally convertible, unsecured, unrated, and unlisted debentures, to ATC, a non-promoter of the company, for 1,600 crore. The OCDs will be issued in one or more tranches, and will carry a coupon rate of 11.2% per annum that will be payable semi-annually during its term. The funds raised through preferential issue will be used to pay amounts that Vodafone Idea owed to ATC under the master lease agreements and, to the extent of the remainder, for general corporate purposes. Tesla Inc raised prices in the United States of its best-selling vehicle, the Model Y, by $1,000 after the government raised the ceiling on the price of crossover electric vehicles eligible for tax credits. Tesla increased the price of the Model Y Long Range to $54,990, and the Model Y Performance to $57,990, an increase of $1,000 each, according to current and previous prices posted on its website. It was the second increase in price for the Model Y Long Range over the past two weeks. The models remain 15% and 17% cheaper, respectively, than they were before Tesla slashed prices last month to stoke demand, before accounting for the $7,500 tax credit buyers now qualify to receive. In a reversal, the Treasury Department ruled on Friday that crossovers like the Model Y would qualify for electric vehicle tax credits as long as they were priced below $80,000. The ceiling for cars, sedans and wagons is lower at $55,000. That represented a win for Tesla, General Motors, Ford and other automakers that had pressed the Biden administration to loosen the vehicle definitions in the implementation of the incentive plan to make more of their lineups eligible. At its previous price, a Tesla buyer of a Model Y would only have been able to add about $1,000 in extra features, such as a tow hitch, before pushing the price above the level at which the tax incentive would apply. Tesla cut prices globally in January in response to signs of slowing demand. It cut prices for a second time in South Korea on Friday. Chief Executive Elon Musk said last month that vehicle orders were roughly double the companys output in January after the first round of price cuts. He said strong demand had prompted the company to make its first small price increase to the Model Y. This story has been published from a wire agency feed without modifications to the text. Only the headline has been changed. New provident fund (PF) withdrawal rule: While presenting the Union Budget 2023, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman proposed to decrease Tax Deduction at Source (TDS) from 30 per cent to 20 per cent for taxable component of the Employees' Provident Fund (EPF) Scheme for non-PAN cases. However, other income tax rule will remain same. As per the income tax rule, if a PF or EPF accountholder goes for its EPF withdrawal before completion of 5 years of account opening, then in that case, whole withdrawal amount would remain taxable and PF contribution above 2.5 lakh per annum would also remain taxable. "At present the TDS rate on withdrawal of taxable component from Employees Provident Fund Scheme in non-PAN cases is 30 per cent. It is proposed to reduce it to 20 per cent, as in other non-PAN cases," Nirmala Sitharaman had said while presenting the Union Budget in parliament. Simplifying the new PF withdrawal rule for non-PAN cases, Mumbai-based tax expert Balwant Jain said, "PF withdrawal is taxable if the withdrawal takes place before five years of PF or EPF account opening. If the PF account is seeded with account holders PAN card, then there will be no TDS levied on the withdrawal amount. PF withdrawal amount will get added to the total taxable income of the PF account holder in the year of withdrawal and the tax will become applicable on the basis of income tax slab getting applicable on the PF account holder." However, Balwant Jain said that in case of PF account not seeded with account holders' PAN card, TDS is deducted from the net amount available in one's PF account. This TDS rate is currently 30 per cent of the PF withdrawal amount, which will come down to 20 per cent from 1st April 2023 or from the beginning of FY24. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken postponed a visit to China that had been expected to start on Friday after a suspected Chinese spy balloon was tracked flying across the United States in what Washington called a "clear violation" of U.S. sovereignty. The Pentagon said on Thursday it was tracking a high-altitude surveillance balloon over the continental United States. Officials said military leaders considered shooting it down over Montana on Wednesday but eventually recommended against this to President Joe Biden because of the safety risk from debris. White House spokesperson Karine Jean-Pierre said Biden was briefed on the balloon flight on Tuesday and there was an administration "consensus that it was not appropriate to travel to the People's Republic of China at this time." China earlier expressed regret that what it called a "civilian airship had strayed into U.S. territory after being blown off course." ALSO READ: Chinese spy balloon floating over the US: What we know so far The administration was aware of China's statement "but the presence of this balloon in our airspace, it is a clear violation of our sovereignty as well as international law. It is unacceptable this occurred," she told a regular briefing. On Friday, Pentagon spokesman Brigadier General Patrick Ryder said the balloon had changed course and was now floating eastward at about 60,000 feet (18,300 meters) above the central United States and demonstrating a capability to maneuver. He said it would likely be over the country for a few more days. The Pentagon's disclosure about the balloon's maneuverability directly challenges China's assertion about the balloon being blown off course. At a news conference with South Korea's visiting foreign minister later on Friday, Blinken said he had told Wang Yi, director of China's Central Commission for Foreign Affairs, that the incident on the eve of his trip was an "irresponsible act" by China, but Washington remained committed to engagement and he would visit when conditions allowed. Blinken said he was not going to put a date on when he might go to China and the focus was on resolving the current incident. The first step is ... getting the surveillance asset, out of our air space," he said, adding that the United States would continue to maintain open lines of communication with China. The Republican chairman of the House of Representatives Foreign Affairs Committee, Michael McCaul, said the balloon should never have been allowed in U.S. airspace and could have been shot down over water. "I am calling on the Biden administration to quickly take steps to remove the Chinese spy balloon from U.S. airspace," he said in a statement. LOST OPPORTUNITY? The postponing of Blinken's trip, which had been agreed to in November by Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping, is a blow to those on both sides who saw it as an overdue opportunity to stabilize an increasingly fractious relationship. The last visit by a U.S. secretary of state was in 2017. A White House official said the administration had briefed staff of the so-called Gang of 8, which brings together Republican and Democratic leaders from the Senate and House, on Thursday afternoon. The official said such balloon surveillance activity had "been observed over the past several years, including in the prior administration we have kept Congress briefed on this issue." China is keen for a stable U.S. relationship so it can focus on its economy, battered by the now-abandoned zero-COVID policy and neglected by foreign investors alarmed by what they see as a return of state intervention in the market. In recent months Chinese leader Xi has met with world leaders, seeking to re-establish ties and settle disagreements. Daniel Russel, the top U.S. diplomat for Asia under then-President Barack Obama, said he did not see a strategic rationale for canceling the trip and stressed the importance of maintaining high-level engagement with China. "In as much as the U.S. has much bigger fish to fry with the Chinese than a surveillance balloon, the Biden team may be inclined to pick up where they left off after a decent interval," Russel said. Sino-U.S. relations have soured significantly in recent years, particularly following then-U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's visit to Taiwan in August, which prompted dramatic Chinese military drills near the self-ruled island. LIMITED INTELLIGENCE VALUE Ryder told reporters on Thursday the balloon was at an altitude well above commercial air traffic and did not present a military or physical threat to people on the ground. One U.S. official added that the balloon was assessed to have "limited additive value from an intelligence collection perspective." Another official said the flight path would carry the balloon over a number of sensitive sites, but did not give details. Malmstrom Air Force Base in Montana is home to 150 intercontinental ballistic missile silos. Ryder declined on Friday to specify where precisely the balloon was, but as he spoke, the National Weather Service in Kansas City said on Twitter it had received multiple reports across northwestern Missouri of a large balloon. Such balloons typically operate at 80,000-120,000 feet (24,000-37,000 meters), well above where commercial air traffic flies. The highest-performing fighter aircraft typically do not operate above 65,000 feet, although spy planes such as the U-2 have a service ceiling of 80,000 feet or more. China has often complained about surveillance by the United States, including its deployment of ships or planes near Chinese military exercises. This story has been published from a wire agency feed without modifications to the text. Only the headline has been changed. US short seller Hindenburg Research in a report on January 24 had publsihed a report on Adani Group accusing it of improper use of offshore tax havens and flagging concerns about high debt that sent the Group stocks to crash. The group holds short positions in Adani group companies. Hindenburg Research said evidence that the Group has engaged in a 'brazen stock manipulation and accounting fraud scheme over the course of decades.' What did Hindenburg Research say? The Hindenburg Research said that the seven listed companies of the Adani group, have an 85% downside on a fundamental basis due to sky-high valuations, Hindenburg said in the report. The report pointed out the debt on the company. "Key listed Adani companies have also taken on substantial debt, including pledging shares of their inflated stock for loans, putting the entire group on precarious financial footing. 5 of 7 key listed companies have reported current ratios below 1, indicating near-term liquidity pressure," the report said. The report said that 8 of 22 key roles are held by the family members of Gautam Adani, Founder and Chairman of the Adani Group. At the end of the report Hindenburg asked some questions: a)Gautam Adanis younger brother, Rajesh Adani, was accused by the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) of playing a central role in a diamond trading import/export scheme around 2004-2005. He was subsequently arrested twice over allegations of customs tax evasion, forging import documentation and illegal coal imports. Given his history, why was he subsequently promoted to serve as Managing Director at the Adani Group? b)Gautam Adanis brother-in-law, Samir Vora, was accused by the DRI of being a ringleader of a diamond trading scam and of repeatedly making false statements to regulators. Given his history, why was he subsequently promoted to Executive Director of the critical Adani Australia division? What has been the full extent of Vinod Adanis role in the Adani Group to date, including all roles on deals and entities that have transacted with the Adani Group? 4) The Adani Group has previously been the focus of 4 major government fraud investigations which have alleged money laundering, theft of taxpayer funds and corruption, totaling an estimated U.S. $17 billion, said the report. Adani family members allegedly cooperated to create offshore shell entities in tax-haven jurisdictions like Mauritius, the UAE, and Caribbean Islands, generating forged import/export documentation in an apparent effort to generate fake or illegitimate turnover and to siphon money from the listed companies, the report added. Response of Adani Group: In a 413-page rebuttal filed late Sunday night, the Adani group labelled the US short seller as the Madoffs of Manhattan." The Adani group has called the report baseless and termed the allegations "unsubstantiated speculations". "All transactions entered into by us with entities who qualify as 'related parties' under Indian laws and accounting standards have been duly disclosed by us," Adani said in the 413-page response issued late on Sunday. Hindenburg response to this: The short-seller has said that listed Adani companies have seen a number of changes in chief financial officers (CFOs) and that auditors used by the group are relatively unknown. It said Adani Enterprises has had five chief financial officers over the course of eight years, citing this a "a key red flag indicating potential accounting issues". Adani response: The Adani group said that several of the CFOs that the Hindenburg report points to have remained within the group and moved on to new roles. On the quality of audits, it said that the audit committee of each of the listed companies is composed entirely of independent directors, and auditors are appointed on their recommendation. "This is rife with conflict of interest and intended only to create a false market in securities to enable Hindenburg, an admitted short seller, to book massive financial gain through wrongful means at the cost of countless investors," it added. Billionaire Gautam Adani, who is the richest Indian and Asian in the world, saw his fortune decline which led to his ranking on the Bloomberg Billionaires Index slipping out of the top ten in the world's richest list. Adani Group stocks fell 5-20%, wiping out 3.19 trillion in investor wealth after Hindenburg Research said it stood by its findings of alleged share price manipulation and accounting fraud by the conglomerate. (input from agencies) The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) on 4 February presented 52,619.07 crore budget for the year FY 2023-24 and said that no fresh tax was levied for residents of Mumbai. According to details, the 52,619.07 crore budget will have emphasis on health, education and infrastructure. This is the first time, the budgetary estimates crossed the 50,000 crore mark. This time, the budgetary estimates are 14.52 per cent more than the 2022-23 amount of 45,949 crore. Weeks after Prime Minister Narendra Modi had spoken about "funds being locked in banks", the BMC said that it would tap into some of its fixed deposits (FDs) worth more than 88,000 crore for development projects. ALSO READ: Mumbai: BMC presents 52,619 crore Budget. Check key announcements "This is the first time in the history of the country's richest civic body that the budgetary estimates for FY 2023-24 have crossed the 50,000 crore-mark and the capital expenditure is more than 50 per cent," BMC commissioner and administrator Iqbal Singh Chahal said. As per the BMC Budget document, the budget estimates for the financial year 2023-24 are proposed at 52,619.07 crore, which exceeds the budget estimates for 2022-23, that is 45,949.21 crore, by 14.52 per cent. This is also after 1985, that the Mumbai civic body presented the budget to an administrator as the five-year term of corporators ended last year. Commenting on the BMC Budget, BJP called it the budget "truly for Mumbaikars" whereas Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aaditya Thackeray termed it "pro-contractor" that will lead to the financial bankruptcy of Mumbai. The total expenditure for health is estimated at 6,309.38 crore, which is 12 per cent of the total budget, while the same for primary education is 2,319.37 crore and 10,015.92 crore for Water supply and sewage disposal, as per the budget documents. A provision of RS 3,545 crore for the Coastal Road Project, which is expected to be completed by this year-end, 2,825 crore for traffic operations and roads, 800 crore for BEST undertaking as against 1,382.28 crore in FY 22-23 and 227.07 crore for Fire Brigade as against 300 crore in FY 22-23 has been made in the latest BMC budget. Among others, the BMC in its budget announced at 12 new projects, including the construction of footpaths on either side of roads with 9-metre width, digitisation of classrooms in civic-run schools, air quality monitoring, and family health scheme. Aaditya Thackeray tweeted that the "unconstitutional state Govt and the BMC governed by the administrator has been showing moral and legal bankruptcy for 6 months". He demanded the BMC to explain the "hiked expenses in the pro contractor" budget. The Aam Aadmi Party said the budget is an annual ritual" aimed at throwing big numbers but utilisation of funds year after year reveals a "sordid saga of ineptitude and incompetence". "A record 18,746 crore will be withdrawn from BMC's reserve fund, which is unprecedented. This budget is not for the aam aadmi but for the contractor lobby," it said. With PTI inputs. The Border Security Force (BSF) shot down a Pakistani drone in the intervening night of Friday and Saturday near the International Border in Rajasthan's Sriganganagar sector, and seized six kilogrammes of narcotics. The BSF achieved success during a joint operation carried out in close coordination with Rajasthan Police in the general area of Srikaranpur of the Sriganganagar sector on the India-Pakistan International Border (IB). The BSF personnel shot down the drone in the joint operation soon after it crossed the IB to smuggle narcotics into Indian territory. "During the intervening night of February 3-4, 2023, alert BSF troops deployed on Indo-Pak International Border in General area Srikaranpur of Sector Sriganganagar, in a Joint Ops with Police shot down a Pak drone which entered into India side of IB to smuggle Narcotics," said the BSF in a statement. During the search, the force said, one Pakistani drone and two bags containing six packets of suspected narcotics weighing approximately 6 kg have been recovered by BSF troops. The BSF got success, a day after Pakistani drone was shot down which crossed the International Border and intruded in Punjab's Amritsar. The drone was shot by the BSF personnel on the intervening night of 2nd-3rd February 2023 at about 2.30 am which had intruded in the area of responsibility of Border Outpost Rear Kakkar in Amritsar Sector (Punjab). That drone was recovered near the border fence and zero line, and a packet of 5kg heroin was also recovered with the drone. The BSF is responsible to guard the 3,323 km India-Pakistan border. (ANI) This story has been published from a wire agency feed without modifications to the text. A Delhi court has discharged Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) student Sharjeel Imam in the 2019 Jamia Violence case . Violence erupted after a clash between people protesting against Citizenship Amendment Act and the police. Sharjeel was granted bail in 2021. The court discharged 11 people including Sharjeel Imam in the case and said that Delhi Police was unable to apprehend the actual perpetrators, it booked the accused as "scapegoats". However, the court ordered the framing of charges against one of the accused, Mohammad Ilyas. Additional Sessions Judge Arul Varma said, Marshalling the facts as brought forth from a perusal of the chargesheet and three supplementary chargesheets, this court cannot but arrive at the conclusion that the police were unable to apprehend the actual perpetrators behind the commission of the offense, but surely managed to rope the persons herein as scapegoats." The judge said there were admittedly scores of protesters at the site and some anti-social elements within the crowd could have created an environment of disruption and havoc. "However, the moot question remains -- whether the accused persons herein were even prima facie complicit in taking part in that mayhem? The answer is an unequivocal no," he added. "Needless to say, the investigative agency is not precluded from conducting further investigation in a fair manner...in order to bring to book the actual perpetrators, with the adjuration not to blur lines between dissenters and rioters, and to desist from henceforth arraigning innocent protesters," he added. Police had registered an FIR under various sections of the Indian Penal Code, including rioting, in connection with the communal violence that erupted after a clash between police and people protesting against the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA). As per the prosecution, Imam had allegedly made speeches at Jamia Millia Islamia on December 13, 2019 and at the Aligarh Muslim University on December 16, 2019 where he threatened to cut off Assam and the rest of the Northeast from India. (With inputs from agencies) One of the goals for Zonta International is to develop leaders for the future, and this is done by ensuring that women and girls have access to higher educational opportunities. Since the founding of the Amelia Earhart Fellowship in 1938, Zonta International and its clubs have demonstrated a bold and unwavering commitment to ensuring women and girls have equal opportunities to pursue studies and careers in traditionally male-dominated fields. From aerospace engineering to business, public affairs, technology and STEM, Zonta is developing future female leaders to address the challenges of the 21st century. (Quoted from Zontal International.) Therefore, since we are in our active scholarship season, this months column will provide a brief description of the scholarships offered by Zonta clubs and Zonta International. Jean M Coon.: A local scholarship based on the applicants volunteer activity and academic record. Young Women in Public Affairs: The goal of the Zonta International Young Women in Public Affairs Award program is to encourage young women to participate in public affairs by recognizing the candidates commitment to the volunteer sector, evidence of volunteer leadership achievements and a dedication to empowering women worldwide through service and advocacy. Available on the club, district and international level. Jane M. Klausman Women in Business Scholarship: Helps women pursue undergraduate and master's degrees in business management. Amelia Earhart Fellowship: Women of any nationality pursuing a Ph.D./doctoral degree who demonstrate a superior academic record conducting research applied to aerospace engineering or space sciences are eligible. STEM: Women of any age and nationality pursuing a science, technology, engineering or mathematics degree program at an accredited university/college/institute who demonstrate outstanding potential in the field and are living or studying in a Zonta district/region are eligible. Information regarding these awards are available on the club and Zonta International websites. There are various award amounts and deadlines for each scholarship, The scholarships for the Zonta Club of Auburn are open to all students who live in and attend schools in Cayuga County. Information is available from the school counselors office and online at our website, zontadistrict2.org/auburn, and the deadline is Feb. 6. In addition, every year on Jan. 24, Zonta International observes the International Day of Education and celebrates the role of education in peace and development on a worldwide level. Around the world, 129 million girls are out of school, including 32 million of primary school age, 30 million of lower-secondary school age, and 67 million of upper-secondary age. Zontas International President Ute Scholz stated, "A foundational step in building a better world for women and girls is ensuring quality education for all. Education is essential for future success and economic independence, especially for women and girls." The United Nations also recognizes Zonta's dedication to education and stated, "Without inclusive and equitable quality education and lifelong opportunities for all, countries will not succeed in achieving gender equality and breaking the cycle of poverty that is leaving millions of children, youth and adults behind." The ladies of the Zonta Club of Auburn thank and recognize teachers locally and worldwide who devote their careers to the education of the children of the world, and for helping to build a better world for women and girls. Last week, US-based short seller Hindenburg Research accused the Adani group of "brazen" market manipulation and fraud, which caused a significant stock selloff. Gautam Adani has consistently refuted the accusations, and his company has referred to the information as "bogus". A lot has happened ever since. Heres a timeline of the events. January 24-31 Seven listed Adani Group firms have an 85% downside on a fundamental basis due to extremely high valuations, alleged a study from Hindenburg Research on January 24. The report alleged improper use of tax havens and flagged concerns about debt levels. The following day, entities belonging to the Adani Group experienced a severe stock market correction that reduced their market capitalisation by around 1 lakh crore. Adani Group responded to the Hindenburg Research saying that the report was baseless and termed the allegations "unsubstantiated speculations". However, Hindenburg emphasised that it stood by its report. Next, Adani Group said it was not merely an unwarranted attack on any specific company but a calculated attack on India".Hindenburg said in its reply that, instead of addressing any of the substantive points, Adani stoked a nationalist narrative' that seeks to conflate the 'meteoric rise and the wealth of its chairman, Gautam Adani, with the success of India itself". Companies in the Adani Group continued to experience losses as trading resumed, bringing the two-day decline in market capitalisation to 4 lakh crore. While a 1% subscription is seen in the Adani Enterprises FPO on the first day, Abu Dhabis International Holding contributed $400 million to the FPO in support of Adani. On January 31, the FPO was fully subscribed. February 1-6 On February 1, Credit Suisse's private bank halted margin loans on Adani Bonds. The Swiss lenders private banking arm assigned a zero lending value for notes sold by Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone, Adani Green Energy, and Adani Electricity Mumbai. The same day, Adani Group stocks lost $86 billion, forcing the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) to launch a probe. Later that night, Adani Group called off the Adani Enterprises FPO. Gautam Adani, once Indias richest man", was pushed off the list of the top-10 richest in the world. Mukesh Ambani surpassed his rival and entered the top-10 list. On February 2, it was revealed that State Bank of India (SBI) had given $2.6 billion to companies in the Adani conglomerate. SBIs exposure included $200 million from its overseas units, it was reported. The younger brother of former British Prime Minister Boris Johnson, Lord Jo Johnson, resigned from his position as a non-executive director of UK-based investment company Elara Capital, connected to the now-discontinued Adani Enterprises FPO. Gautam Adani's three mega projects in Mumbai came under scanner. On February 3, while maintaining the rating, S&P Global Ratings changed the outlook for Adani Ports and Adani Electricity from stable to negative. Effective from this day, three Adani group companies, including Adani Enterprises, came under short-term additional surveillance measure (ASM) framework of the National Stock Exchange (NSE). LIC revealed that it held a 4.23% stake in Adani Enterprises while it held a 9.14% stake in Adani Ports and 5.96% in Adani Total Gas. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman assured investors by calling India a very well-regulated financial market". Investor confidence, which existed before, shall continue even now. Our regulators are normally very-very stringent about governance practices and therefore, one instance, however much talked about globally it may be, is not going to be indicative of how well financial markets are governed," she said. Over $110 billion was wiped out from 10 companies, including the flagship Adani Enterprises, related to Adani Group. Finance Secretary TV Somanathan called the fall in Adani Group's shares a "storm in a teacup" from a macroeconomic perspective. Due to the company's current market turmoil, Adani Enterprises decided against trying to raise $122 million (over 1,000 crore) through a bond issuance. the company earlier planned to raise money to finance its many initiatives, including the building of a new airport, harbour, power plants and more. The Congress will launch protests from the Parliament to the streets on February 6. The NSUI-Youth Congress will hold a protest in Delhi in front of the LIC and SBI offices at Parliament Police Station. Media reports on February 6 suggested that bonds issued by companies in the Adani Group were no longer accepted by Standard Chartered as security for margin lending. Meanwhile, New York University's finance professor Aswath Damodaran has valued Adani Enterprises at 947 per share. After some disagreements over paying extra for the ticket of their child, a couple decided to leave their baby at the check-in desk of an airport in Israel. The incident which shocked the airline staff occurred on Tuesday at the Ryanair desk of Tel Avivs Ben-Gurion Airport. The couple who was traveling on a Belgian passport to Brussels had not paid in advance for the ticket of the baby and while checking in, when the airline staff asked them to pay, they started arguing. Airport staff told the local news agency KAN that after arguing, they simply left their child in the baby stroller and moved to passport control. Weve never seen anything like this. We couldnt believe what we were seeing," one airline employee told K12 while expressing disbelief over the incident. The security of the airport informed that the couple arrived late for their flight and both of them were looking desperate to get through the airport security with or without the baby. These passengers traveling from Tel Aviv to Brussels (31 January) presented at check-in without a booking for their infant. They then proceeded to security leaving the infant behind at check-in. The check-in agent at Ben Gurion Airport contacted Airport Security, who retrieved these passengers, and this is now a matter for local police," a Ryanair spokesperson said. Such incidents are not rare in aviation, and according to the news website INDEPENDENT, in October 2022, a 62-old-man was arrested in Florida after he left a nearly two-year-old child in the back of a locked rental car at Daytona Airport. The website shared another incident in which a Saudi Arabian airline's flight turned back to the departure point after a mother left her baby at the boarding gate of the airport. At least 4 women died and 11 are injured in a stampede at Tamil Nadu's Tirupattur on Saturday after many people gathered to receive tokens for the collection of free 'Veshtis' and sarees being distributed by an individual on the occasion of Thaipusam in Tiruppattur's Vaniyambadi. The police said that the event was organized without proper permission from the administration. Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu MK Stalin announced 2 lakh each as compensation and relief assistance to the families of the victims. The Hon'ble Chief Minister @mkstalin has announced consolation and relief assistance to the families of four women who died in a stampede in Tirupathur District, Vaniyambadi," CMO Tamil Nadu tweeted. Superintendent of Police (SP) Tiruppattur said that the police are investigating the matter and appropriate action will be taken in the case according to the law. No permission was given to hold this event, the SP added. Thaipoosam is a full-moon festival that is celebrated by the members of the Tamil community on the day of the full moon in the Tamil month of Thai. The individual was distributing free 'Veshtis' and sarees to celebrate the occasion and in the rush to collect sarees, a stampede occurred in which four elderly women lost their lives and around 11 people were injured. The massacre of Adani Group's stocks since Hindenburg's report led to an erosion of billions of dollars of the wealth of Gautam Adani. His wealth has been scrapped by more than half pushing him out of the top 20 ranks at Bloomberg Billionaire Index. Among the top three billionaires who lost more money, year-to-date, are Gautam Adani, Mukesh Ambani, and Radhakishan Damani. But the loss in Adani's net worth is multi-fold compared to Ambani and Damani. On Bloomberg Billionaire Index, as of February 4th, Gautam Adani tops the chart of losing more money year-to-date followed by Mukesh Ambani and Radhakishan Damani. The index is a daily ranking of the worlds richest people. According to the index, Adani so far in the year has lost $61.6 billion --- with rank toppling down to 21st. Adani who was among the top 3 richest men in the world couple of weeks ago, now has a net worth of $59 billion. Meanwhile, Reliance Industries chief Mukesh Ambani who holds 12th rank on the index -- has a net worth of $80.7 billion as of February 4. Ambani's wealth has dipped by $6.36 billion year-to-date. Ambani has regained his title of being the richest man in India and Asia. On the other hand, Avenue Supermarts (DMart) founder Radhakishan Damani has lost $2.61 billion in wealth year-to-date. His net worth stood at $16.7 billion, at 102nd rank. View Full Image Among the top three billionaires who lost more money, year-to-date, are Gautam Adani, Mukesh Ambani, and Radhakishan Damani. (Bloomberg Billionaire Index website) Year-to-date, on the index, CEO of Tesla and Twitter, Elon Musk's wealth has witnessed the biggest jump of $37.6 billion, taking him to the 2nd rank of the rich list with a total net worth of $175 billion. Louis Vuitton's founder Bernard Arnault has garnered the second-highest jump in his wealth so far in the year by $33.7 billion --- making him the richest man in the world with a net worth of $196 billion. Social media giant Facebook's founder Mark Zuckerberg has so far seen the third highest jump in his net worth by $23.5 billion -- taking his rank to 13th with a total wealth of $69.1 billion. What to led to the storm at Adanis? Frantic dives in Adani Group's seven listed stocks since January 24 have wiped out over 100 billion dollars of valuation of the conglomerate. The impact had to be seen in Gautam Adani's net worth as well. Adani Enterprises: On Friday, after touching a new 52-week low of 1,017.10 apiece, the group's flagship company picked up momentum to close at 1,584.20 apiece up by 1.25% on BSE. This stock nosedived by over 47% between February 1st and 2nd after the withdrawal of 20,000 crore FPO despite the issue getting subscribed fully. The stock has plummeted by nearly 54% since January 24th which was the day Hindenburg released its report with a host of allegations on the group. Adani Ports: Similar was the case with this stock on Friday. After touching a new 1-year low of 394.95 apiece, the stock gained traction to end at 498.85 apiece up by 7.98% on BSE. Adani Ports announced operational performance in January 2023, under which, it handled 27.6 MMT of total cargo, implying a YoY growth of 11%. Between February 1-2nd, the stock dipped by 25%. Since January 24th, the stock has plunged by over 34%. Adani Power: Unlike the above two Adani stocks, Adani Power touched a 5% lower circuit for the seventh consecutive day on Friday to end at 192.05 apiece. Since January 24th, the stock has tumbled by a little over 30% on BSE. Adani Transmission: The stock hit a 10% lower circuit for the second day in a row on Friday to end at 1,401.55 apiece on BSE. This would also be its fresh 52-week low. In the last three trading sessions, the stock fell by nearly 21%. Since January 24, this Adani stock dipped by over 49% on D-Street. Adani Total Gas: This stock has been in red for nine days in a row. On Friday, the stock hit its seventh consecutive lower circuit. On BSE, it ended at 1,625.95 apiece down by 5%. Since January 24, the stock has shed over 58% on D-Street. Adani Green Energy: The stock dropped to a fresh 52-week low which was also its 10% lower circuit at 934.25 apiece on BSE. In three trading sessions, the stock declined by nearly 24% on BSE. Since January 24th, the stock has dropped by over 51%. Adani Wilmar: Adani's FMCG player froze at a 5% lower circuit for seven days in a row on Friday at 400.40 apiece on BSE. Since January 24, the stock has dived by over 30%. On recovery in some of Adani stocks on Friday, Vinod Nair, Head of Research at Geojit Financial Services said, "The Adani saga has created large turbulence during the week, and as a result, the market failed to shy away from its instability even after a well-tuned budget that placed a strong emphasis on consumption and capex." He added, "the uptick in Adani Group stocks following the confident statement by Total Energies, a large French energy company, also raised the sentiment of the market." On Friday, European multinational integrated energy and petroleum company, TotalEnergies released information on its joint investments in India in partnership with Adani since 2018. As of December 31, 2022, TotalEnergies' exposure resulting from these stakes is limited, as it represents 2.4% ($3.1 billion) of the Companys capital employed and only $180 million of net operating income in 2022. TotalEnergies also said, it "welcomes the announcement by Adani to mandate one of the "big four" accounting firms to carry out a general audit." TotalEnergies which is among the seven supermajor oil companies, holds a stake in Adani Total, Adani Total Gas, Adani Green Energy, and AGEL23. On Saturday, Bloomberg News reported that Adani Enterprises has shelved a plan to raise as much as 10 billion Indian rupees. Also, Reuters earlier this week reported that the Indian markets regulator is already investigating the matter, including the crash in the company's shares, any irregularities in the now-shelved share sale, and any possible price manipulation. The troubled days in Adani stocks come after a New York-based investment research firm, Hindenburg Research, accused Adani of stock manipulation and fraud schemes. Hindenburg's research report dated January 24, said, "we reveal the findings of our 2-year investigation, presenting evidence that the 17.8 trillion ($218 billion) Indian conglomerate Adani Group has engaged in a brazen stock manipulation and accounting fraud scheme over the course of decades." However, Adani's top management had denied Hindenburg's accusations, calling the research report of latter as "maliciously mischievous, unresearched report". Both Adani and Hindenburg are in a tug of war. In an aftermath of the report, Adani also called off its $2.5 billion FPO on February 1 despite the issue fully subscribing. Talking about the impact of the withdrawal of FPO, Nirav Karkera, Head of Research at Fisdom said, "The FPO was critical to funding capital-intensive growth projects in critical segments of green hydrogen, greenfield expressway construction and additional developmental work in select airport projects. A component of the proceeds was earmarked to service debt to the tune of 4,000 crore." Karkera added, "the withdrawal of the FPO has not just caused an urgent demand for the amount needed for the debt servicing but is also expected to slow the progression of growth ventures in planned sunrise businesses." Also, Fisdom expert believes while the company seems confident of being able to run planned operations and service upcoming debt obligation through internal accruals, it is almost obvious that the group will either need to pace out its ambitious expansionary roadmap or seek alternative sources of funding which would come at a relatively higher cost. Disclaimer: The views and recommendations made above are those of individual analysts or broking companies, and not of Mint. We advise investors to check with certified experts before taking any investment decisions. India has reported 128 new Covid cases in the last 24 hours, according to the union health ministry data. The total number of Covid cases reached 4.47 crore, with 530,745 Covid-related deaths since the onset of the Covid pandemic. Covid cases are constantly declining across the country with Karnataka reporting 142 active cases while Kerala has 1196 active cases. Maharashtra has 76 active cases, Odisha 87 cases, Rajasthan with 15 cases, Tamil Nadu has 29 active cases; Uttar Pradesh 15 and West Bengal has 46 active cases. With a rapid decline in the trajectory of Covid cases, scientists believe that Omicron and its sub-lineages will not affect India as a large number of the population is already exposed to the virus and vaccinated. Scientists say that people in India have developed hybrid immunity (due to vaccination and natural infection). However, they suggest people wear masks in crowded places and complete their vaccination doses if not done yet. At present, a large number of cases are being reported in China and other countries. As a result, the Central government has tightened Covid preparedness measures. The government has directed the INSACOG under the supervision of the Department of Biotechnology (DBT) to keep a close watch on the Covid situation in the country and continue to do constant genome sequencing to track any new variant. The government is conducting RT-PCR testing for people returning from China, Hong Kong, Japan, Singapore, Thailand, and South Korea and mandated the filling up of Air Suvidha forms for travellers from six countries under which 72-hour prior RT-PCR testing is compulsory. The country has conducted over 1,42,063 tests in the last 24 hours, taking the total trajectory of Covid testing to 91.60 crore so far. Under the Covid vaccination drive, more than 220.56 crore vaccine doses have been administered to people across the country so far. In the last 24 hours, around 1,60,769 vaccine doses were administered. Besides, surveillance at the hospital level is also going on to monitor lnfluenza-like illness (lLl) & SARI cases. w Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann flagged off the first batch of 36 government school principals for their visit to Singapore for professional training. As per the PTI news agency, the principals will participate in a Professional Teacher Training seminar in Singapore from 6-10 February. In a statement by Chief Minister Mann, "Today, the first batch of 36 school principals is going to Singapore and they will take part in a five-day training camp there. At Principals Academy in Singapore, they will undergo learn the latest techniques in the education sector". The CM said that Punjab will witness the same transformative process just like Delhi. "We have talented teachers. But there was a need to update them (about the latest teaching techniques), the process for which has started today," Mann said. "We will send teachers to Finland as well. We will send teachers to places wherever new and latest ways of teaching are available to learn. We will also raise an outlay for education in the upcoming state budget," he said. Further, the Punjab cabinet gave a go-ahead to the implementation of a state scheme to upgrade government schools into 'Schools of Eminence'. These Schools of Eminence will serve as centres of excellence equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, the statement said, adding that in the initial phase, the scheme will be implemented in 117 schools. The Punjab Cabinet also approved 74.75 crore to the executing agency concerned for the remaining construction work of the Shahpur Kandi Dam Project. It also gave its approval to send the case of special remission to convicts confined in prisons of Punjab in the second phase to commemorate the 75th Independence Day. Separately, the Punjab government on Friday approved the state's new industrial policy that has the infrastructure, power, and MSMEs as its key focus areas and a slew of incentives for various sectors. The new industrial and business development policy, 2022 shall be effective from October 17, 2022, the time when the previous policy's period ended, and the new policy will remain in force for five years. The new policy lays thrust on creating an enabling environment for the industries and businesses for balanced economic growth, job creation, and overall development of the state. The new policy is structured around key strategic focus areas -- infrastructure, power, MSMEs, large enterprises, innovation, startup and entrepreneurship, skill development, ease of doing business, fiscal and non-fiscal incentive, export promotion logistic, stakeholder engagement, and grievance redressal, said an official statement here. As per the policy, the state will develop 15 industrial parks covering general and sector-specific requirements of various industrial sectors and 20 rural clusters across the state. The state will also allow the setting up of dedicated country-specific integrated industrial townships to attract investment by allowing the infrastructure and other norms of the country. The policy also envisages investment subsidy by way of reimbursement of net SGST up to 200% of FCI over a period of 7 to 15 years. In order to give a boost to the MSME sector, the state under the new policy will set up MSME Punjab, a dedicated wing of the Department of Industries and Commerce with a focus on setting up a common facility and technology centre. Union Minister for Law and Justice Kiren Rijiju on Saturday said that the country will function according to the need of its people and in the guidance of the constitution, and nobody can give a warning to anyone. The minister's comment came a day after the Supreme Court made some strict observations regarding the government delaying the transfer of high court judges. While taking a strict view of the government's inaction, Justice SK Kaul and AS Oka said "Don't make us take a stand which will be very uncomfortable". While addressing the Allahabad High Court Bar Association event in Prayagraj district of Uttar Pradesh, Rijuju said, he read a report that says that Supreme Court has given us a warning. "Public is the maalik of this country and we are the servants. We all are here for service. And our guide is the Constitution. According to the guidance of the Constitution and the wish of the public, the country will be governed. Nobody can give warning to anyone," the minister said #WATCH | I saw a media report today that stated- Supreme Court has given a warning...The Indian Constitution is our guide. No one can give a warning to anyone: Union Law Minister Kiren Rijiju in Prayagraj, UP pic.twitter.com/oyoDfzLzIS ANI (@ANI) February 4, 2023 "We are very grateful that we have got an opportunity to serve this magnificent country. All those who are sitting here are privileged. You have become lawyers, judges after your hard work and study. So we are very fortunate that we have got the responsibility to do something for the country," Kiren Rijiju said at the event of the bar association. The development comes on the day Centre cleared the names of five judges for elevation to the Supreme Court of India. The notification about the same was released on Saturday afternoon. The names which were under the consideration of the government since December include justices Pankaj Mithal (Rajasthan high court chief justice), Sanjay Karol (Patna high court chief justice), PV Sanjay Kumar (Manipur high court chief justice), Ahsanuddin Amanullah (Patna high court judge), and Manoj Misra (Allahabad high court judge). The tussle between Supreme Court and the government over the collegium system is growing wider with time. Senior government functionaries including Vice-President and Law Minister have openly vouched for an alternate system for appointment for judges, while the apex court is expressing its displeasure over the government sitting on its recommendations for the appointment and transfer of judges. Yoga guru Baba Ramdev has sparked yet another controversy. This time he has accused Muslims of resorting to terror and abducting Hindu women while comparing Hinduism to Islam and Christianity. In a gathering in Barmer, Rajasthan, Baba Ramdev alleged that the two faiths were obsessed with conversion while Hinduism taught its followers to do good. "Muslims offer namaz five times a day and then do whatever they want. They kidnap Hindu girls and commit all kinds of sins. Our Muslim brothers commit a lot of sins but they definitely offer Namaz as they are taught to do so. Hindu religion is not like this," he said. A video of his speech has surfaced on social media. "I am not criticising anyone but people are obsessed only with this. Some people talk about converting the entire world to Islam and others want to convert the world to Christianity," Ramdev added. He claimed that these faiths had no other agenda. Continuing his attack on Muslims, he said they become terrorists or criminals and yet offer Namaz. He also referred to the attire of orthodox members of the community. He said Hinduism teaches people not to engage in violence and dishonesty. "Wake up early in the morning, pray to God, do yoga, do good work and good deeds by worshiping your deity. This is what Hindu religion and Sanatan Dharma teach us," Ramdev said. On his remark, Rafeek Khan, Chairman-Rajasthan State Commission for Minorities told ANI that, Baba Ramdev is a Yog Guru. With Centre's blessings, his companies are making progress so he has been sent here to fan communalism. Inappropriate if you comment on any religion. No religion teaches enmity. He is in Rajasthan under a conspiracy." Inappropriate if you comment on any religion. No religion teaches enmity. He is in Rajasthan under a conspiracy: Rafeek Khan, Chairman-Rajasthan State Commission for Minorities on Yog Guru Ramdev's remark 'Muslims are forgiven all sins if they offer Namaz 5 times a day' (03.02) pic.twitter.com/m4gEeCkzkC ANI MP/CG/Rajasthan (@ANI_MP_CG_RJ) February 4, 2023 Prior in November, the yoga guru had said that women can look good in anything, saree, salwar kameez or "even when they wear nothing". He had shared stage at the event with state Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis's wife Amruta Fadnavis. He later apologised for his remark after Maharashtra State Commission for Women (MSCW) had issued him a notice. Earlier on 31 January, Puri Shankaracharya Swami Nischalananda Saraswati had claimed that ancestors of Prophet Muhammad and Jesus Christ have been proved to be Sanatani Hindus. "Opposition members in America have raised this issue in Parliament. Ancestors of Muhammad and Christ have been proved to be Sanatani Hindus," he told reporters, as reported by ANI. (With inputs from PTI) Canada immigration update: Canadian immigration authorities have released data that confirms that with improved efficiency in either or both of the official languages (French, English) has had more chances of securing a permanent residency or visa in the country. Although most recent immigrants (69.4%) reported non-official languages as their mother tongue, 92.7% of people in this group self-reported being able to conversate in one of Canadas two official languages, according to CIC news. Here is a detailed understanding of the importance of official language proficiency in Canada for immigrants Official Languages of Canada: Under the Official Languages Act of 1969, both English and French have official status throughout Canada in respect of federal government services Why should you know both or either languages? The emphasis placed on official language proficiency by the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) when scoring Express Entry candidates is evidence of the importance of official language proficiency. As one of the primary methods of immigration, Canada prioritizes the ability of Express Entry hopefuls to speak, conversate, read and write in English and/or French. In fact, CRS scoring provides a maximum of 320 (with spouse/partner) or 310 (without spouse/partner) points to Express Entry applicants for first official language proficiency. This means that the ability to speak one of Canadas official languages can significantly impact ones CRS score. Impact of official language proficiency for Canada immigrants Better earning prospect: In the first one to two years of immigrating to Canada, StatsCan research indicates that those who had a non-official language as their mother tongue (but who spoke English) earned 29% less than" native English or French speakers. This would suggest that with better official language proficiency, recent immigrants between 2016 and 2021 are positioned to experience higher earnings than those who cannot conversate in English or French. The same is true in the medium-term (five to six years after immigration) and long-term (10 to 11 years after immigrating to Canada), according to StatsCan. Research participants with either of Canadas official languages as a mother tongue experienced 42% higher earnings in the medium-term window than non-native speakers and long-term earnings were 35% higher for those more adept in English or French. President Joe Biden said on Saturday that the United States is "going to take care of" a suspected Chinese spy balloon that has been tracked flying across the United States. Biden made his remark in response to a question about whether the United States would shoot down the high-altitude surveillance balloon, which has been flying across the country in what Washington calls a "clear violation" of U.S. sovereignty. The president, who has not previously spoken about the suspected spy balloon, did not elaborate on what was planned. Military leaders considered shooting down the high-altitude surveillance balloon this week but eventually recommended against this because of the risk of falling debris, officials said. ALSO READ: Antony Blinken postpones China trip over 'unacceptable' Chinese spy balloon U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken postponed a visit to China that had been expected to start on Friday because of the balloon. The postponing of Blinken's trip, which had been agreed to in November by Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping, is a blow to those who saw it as an overdue opportunity to stabilize an increasingly fractious relationship. The last visit by a U.S. secretary of state was in 2017. China is keen for a stable U.S. relationship so it can focus on its economy, battered by the now-abandoned zero-COVID policy and neglected by foreign investors alarmed by what they see as a return of state intervention in the market. The balloon was sighted over Montana on Wednesday and has traveled across the United States. It was seen over North Carolina on Saturday morning, according to commercial forecaster AccuWeather which has been tracking it. China expressed regret that an "airship" used for civilian meteorological and other scientific purposes had strayed into U.S. airspace. China's foreign ministry said on Saturday that the flight of the "airship" over the United States was a force majeure accident, accusing U.S. politicians and media of taking advantage of the situation to discredit China. The Pentagon said on Friday that another Chinese balloon was observed over Latin America, without saying where exactly. This story has been published from a wire agency feed without modifications to the text. Only the headline has been changed. Saturdays UFC Vegas 68 will see some history made. There, Laura Sanko will become the second female analyst on a major UFC event in the promotions history, and the first since famed kickboxer Kathy Long was an analyst on UFC 1 in 1993. Sanko (seen above in a 2021 UFC photoshoot) started her career as an atomweight mixed martial arts fighter, then transitioned to broadcasting with Invicta FC in 2014, then joined the UFC broadcast team in 2016. There, shes worked as a backstage reporter and interviewer, then a host and desk analyst, and then a match commentator on Dana Whites Contender Series. Now, shes set to become the first female analyst on a major UFC event in 30 years. She spoke to AA about that via email this week, saying this fulfills a long-term goal of hers. Being elevated to this new UFC Fight Night role is exciting for many reasons. Like most people in business, I set short-term and long-term goals. And being able to serve as the color commentator for a UFC card felt so distant when I started. But with each step in my career, I realized it was obtainable. So there is something very surreal about achieving a goal, and a reset that comes with adjusting your mindset from this being a goal to now being a reality. I can point to the hard work and know passion and skillset pays off. And that can help me as I create new goals for myself, both in short and long term. Sanko said MMA has long been a passion of hers, and broadcasting has proven a great way to keep up involvement there. Mixed Martial Arts is a sport that, once you fall in love with it, it gets into your bones. It saved me at three different points of my life and got me to confront some very tough times in my life. So when my priorities changed and the UFC didnt have a weight class for me to fight in, I had to find a way to still be involved in the sport. She said she got started in broadcasting thanks to a cold call from Invicta FCs Shannon Knapp. I really need to credit Invicta FCs president Shannon Knapp for starting my broadcast career. She called me out of the blue and asked me to a live sideline interview during an upcoming show. I told her I had never done anything like that before and she said, I think youre going to be good at this. Just give it a shot. Invicta FC felt like home at the time. It was the first all-female professional MMA promotion and I fought on one of their first shows, so it was a natural place for me to begin my broadcast career. Sanko said moving to the UFC has been interesting, and it comes with particular expectations and roles for broadcasters. It was incredible to see that the UFC also served as a production company for its fights. Unlike most major sports, the UFC does all its own production, so the producers here are top notch and have matching expectations. It is a demanding schedule as well. Everything is much bigger in every sense and they have a clear vision of the specific roles for their talent. Interview-focused roles and analyst roles are often kept quite separate, but Sanko said going from the former to the latter was a natural transition for her. Oddly enough, it felt very organic. I got a lot of amazing reps doing commentary on Dana Whites Contender Series, which helped me balance finding my voice and gaining credibility with the audience. It also allowed me to do analysis and post-fight interviews all in one show, which is pretty cool. So when it came time for me to move to the broadcast booth it made sense, and I was mentally ready for that challenge. She said the Contender Series remains a favorite for her thanks to what it means for the fighters. Dana Whites Contender Series will probably always be my favorite. I get incredibly invested in the fighters that come through there. So much is on the line on that show so to be able to be a part of one of the fighters biggest moments in their life, its a real honor. The emotions run high on that show because it is pivotal for these fighters careers. Now, Sanko gets a chance to follow in Longs footsteps on a major UFC event. She said Long is someone shes admired for some time. I think any time a woman challenges the norm in a male-dominated space, its important work. Kathy had the tremendously difficult task of commentating a sport that didnt exist until that very night. I love that she said yes to such a challenging situation. Shes a badass in every sense of the word and Im honored to walk in her footsteps! Sanko said there are plenty of hurdles remaining for women in MMA broadcasting in 2023, but she also sees progress being made. I think being a woman in MMA broadcasting in 2023 is challenging in a number of ways. Social media has given a bullhorn to the general public, and it can be hard to block out the noise. Some fans still see this as a men only sport. So there are certainly challenges. However, I think there is a shifting tide of people being more open to female voices in this space, and I am fortunate to be have the opportunity to be part of that. Broadcasting is only part of Sankos life: shes also a wife and mother, and runs a ranch in Kansas City with her husband. She said being busy and striving for balance is a good problem to have, though. It is hard. Our mantra at home is family first, and that has to be a mental mindset, as sometimes physically you are commuting to and from events. The most important thing is I have an incredible marriage anchored by my husband, Nathan. We have each others back in support to my career and pick up one another when the other is jammed up. He is amazing about taking all the family stuff when I am out of town. And as committed to work as I am, I am more committed to him and my my son Burke. So when I am home, I am present and connecting with my family all of the time. I will sleep when I am dead. Sanko is also involved with Altas training programs, which she said are an incredible way for more people to experience what MMA can bring. She said MMA has been incredible for her, and she wants others to experience that. I would love for more people to know that mixed martial arts saved my life on multiple occasions. It helped me confront anxiety, build confidence, be a student in my adult life and gave me a sense of purpose. I partnered with an incredible company called Alta that created a program designed for people who want to challenge themselves and learn MMA. We are in over 40 cities throughout the United States and give our men and women an immersive 20-week fight camp that is a transformative experience. Guys like Daniel Cormier and John Kavanaugh are behind this company, with the goal of not only teaching MMA, but allowing you to change your life in ways you never knew how. Remember, the hardest belt to get is a white belt. And Alta is an amazing on-boarding program for men and women who have always asked themselves, Can I do that, can I do what scares me even though it is not that scary?' UFC Fight Night: Lewis vs. Spivac will be broadcast on ESPN+ Saturday, with prelims beginning at 10 p.m. ET and the main event at 1 a.m. ET. [Photo from Chris Unger/Zuffa LLC, via Getty Images] A US jury has cleared Elon Musk of claims by Tesla Inc investors that he defrauded them when he tweeted in 2018 that he was considering taking the company private and had "funding secured" to make the deal happen. Post verdict, Elon Musk thanked the jury and wrote on Twitter,"Thank goodness, the wisdom of the people has prevailed! I am deeply appreciative of the jurys unanimous finding of innocence in the Tesla 420 take-private case". Thank goodness, the wisdom of the people has prevailed! I am deeply appreciative of the jurys unanimous finding of innocence in the Tesla 420 take-private case. Elon Musk (@elonmusk) February 3, 2023 Musk was sued by shareholders who said the tycoon acted recklessly in an effort to squeeze investors who had bet against the company. The jurors deliberated for hours in a San Francisco courtroom and unanimously agreed that neither Musk nor the Tesla board perpetrated fraud with the tweets and the aftermath. The verdict rejected allegations that the electric car maker's CEO violated securities laws and should pay billions of dollars in damages. The court's verdict is a bitter loss for the shareholders who sought to recoup trading losses from fluctuations in Tesla shares after Musk posted the messages. Musk abandoned the take-private plan about two weeks after his initial tweets. Musk's integrity was at stake at the trial as well as part of a fortune that has established him as one of the worlds richest people. He could have been saddled with a bill for billions of dollars in damages had the jury found him liable for the 2018 tweets that had already been deemed falsehoods by the judge presiding over the trial. During the three-week trial, Musk spent nearly nine hours on the witness stand, telling jurors he believed the tweets were truthful. He said he had lined up the necessary financing, including a verbal commitment from Saudi Arabia's sovereign wealth fund, the Public Investment Fund. The fund later backpedaled on its commitment, Musk said. Musk later testified that he believed he could have sold enough shares of his rocket company SpaceX to fund a buyout, and "felt funding was secured" with SpaceX stock alone. Musk testified that he made the tweets in order to put small shareholders on the same footing as large investors who knew about the deal. But he acknowledged he lacked formal commitments from the Saudi fund and other potential backers. He said his tweets in general did not always affect Tesla stock the way he expects. "Just because I tweet something does not mean people believe it or will act accordingly," Musk told the jury. (With agencies input) Honda Motor Co on Friday issued a "Do Not Drive" warning for 8,200 model year Acura and Honda vehicles with unrepaired Takata air bag inflators in the United States. The urgent warning covers various 2001-2003 model year Honda Accord, Civic CR-V and Odyssey, Pilot and Acura 3.2CL and 3.2 TL vehicles with so-called "Alpha" inflators. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) said owners of those vehicles should not drive them until they get repairs, warning "the risk to vehicle occupants is dire." More than 30 deaths worldwide - including at least 23 U.S. fatalities - and hundreds of injuries in various automakers' vehicles since 2009 are linked to Takata air bag inflators that can explode, unleashing potentially deadly metal shrapnel inside vehicles. ALSO READ: Honda Activa H-Smart launched; gets 5 new patented technology: All details here NHTSA said last month a February death of the driver of a 2002 Accord in Bowling Green, Kentucky, was due to a faulty air bag inflator. Honda has reported 17 U.S. deaths and more than 200 injuries in the United States related to Takata inflator ruptures. Over the last decade, more than 67 million Takata air bag inflators have been recalled in the United States and more than 100 million worldwide, in the biggest auto safety callback in history. Honda said on Friday it has attempted to reach owners more than 18.3 million times including mailed notifications, emails, phone calls and door-to-door visits. The Japanese automaker emphasized it is offering free towing and loaner vehicles for the free recall repair. Honda has to date replaced or accounted for more than 99% of the Alpha" inflators. Honda said "were concerned for the safety of those who have not responded and are now adopting the new Stop Driving messaging to spur them to act." In November, Chrysler parent Stellantis urged owners of 276,000 older U.S. vehicles to immediately stop driving after three crash deaths tied to faulty Takata air bag inflators were reported. NHTSA said the Takata recalls were spurred by propellant that could break down after long-term exposure to high-temperature fluctuations and humidity. Of all the things that could have upended the first trip to China by an American secretary of state since 2018, few would have bet on a Chinese balloon over Montana. On February 2nd the Pentagon revealed that it was tracking the high-altitude inflatable, which it said was for intelligence gathering. The next day American officials said the White House was postponing Antony Blinkens visit to Beijing, which had been due to start on February 5th. - Both sides had been hoping that the visit would consolidate a recent lull in tensions following a meeting between Presidents Joe Biden and Xi Jinping in Bali in November. Mr Blinkens trip may yet be rescheduled. For the moment, though, the overriding concern in the White House was that the balloon saga would hijack talks that must also tackle highly sensitive issues such as Taiwan and Chinas support for Russia over the war in Ukraine. The decision was announced just a few hours before Mr Blinken was due to leave Washington and shortly after China issued an unusually quick and contrite statement, saying that a Chinese civilian airship", used mainly for meteorological research, had been blown off course. The Chinese side regrets the unintended entry of the airship into US airspace due to force majeure," it said, adding that China would continue to communicate with American authorities and properly handle this unexpected situation". The Pentagons press secretary, Brigadier General Patrick Ryder, disputed Chinas assertion that the balloon was a meteorological device. The fact is, we know its a surveillance balloon," he said. Im not going to be able to be more specific than that." He added that the balloon had violated American airspace and international law, and that American authorities had conveyed that to the Chinese government at multiple levels. Chinas explanation also failed to convince its critics in Congress. Tom Cotton, a Republican senator from Arkansas, called explicitly for the visit to be cancelled. The House of Representatives new Republican speaker, Kevin McCarthy, demanded an intelligence briefing for the Gang of Eight" panel of lawmakers that includes the top Republican and Democratic leadership in the House and Senate, plus the heads of each chambers intelligence committee. Nor was the outrage confined to Republicans. The leaders of the Houses new bipartisan China Select Committee issued a statement calling the balloons incursion a violation of American sovereignty and citing it as evidence that Chinas recent diplomatic overtures did not represent a substantive change in policy. The Chinese Communist Party should not have on-demand access to American airspace," said the statement from the committees Republican chairman, Mike Gallagher, and its ranking Democrat, Raja Krishnamoorthi. Former President Donald Trump, meanwhile, posted SHOOT DOWN THE BALLOON!" on his Truth Social media platform. The Pentagon said on February 2nd that it had been keeping tabs on the balloon but military commanders had advised Mr Biden not to shoot it down for fear that falling debris might harm civilians on the ground. American authorities took custody" of the balloon when it entered American airspace a couple of days earlier and had observed it with piloted military aircraft, one American official told reporters. One thing the incident makes abundantly clear is that the political atmosphere in Washington has become so hostile towards China that it will be hard for Mr Biden and Mr Xi to follow up on their commitment to find issues of global concern where they can co-operate, such as climate change. Mr Xi also faces an uphill struggle in trying to reassure Western businesses alarmed by his recent policiesand tensions over Taiwanand to convince them to continue doing business with China. Much less clear is what the Chinese balloon (or airship) is designed for and how it ended up floating into American airspace. It appeared this week high in the sky above Montana, to be greeted with amazement among observers on the ground. Some watchers at first took it for a day-time star. Analysts struggled to understand what it was doing there. In an age when the sky is full of satellites providing very detailed imagery of the Earths surface, China seemed to have reverted to an inferior intelligence-gathering technology first used by the French in the 18th century and, since the end of the cold war, largely superseded by newer techniques. Some pointed out that balloons offer higher-quality intelligence than satellites can provide, and do so at much lower cost, being far cheaper to launch and much easier to retrieve. They operate at a height of 24,000-37,000 metres, well above commercial aircraft, but far closer to the ground than satellites in low-Earth orbit, which are 160-2,000km up. And rather than whisking past, they can loiter over an area of interest. According to the Pentagon, this one had taken several days to travel from China, having crossed the Aleutian islands off Alaska and then north-west Canada. Montana, it was pointed out, may be of particular interest to China. It has, near the city of Great Falls, one of three air-force bases that operate and maintain Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missiles. Or perhaps, some wondered, the balloons main purpose was not to snoop with cameras, but to suck up digital data. Some communication systems use short-range high frequencies that can be absorbed by the atmosphere, which might be more easily monitored from a balloon. Still, it was baffling. The assessment of American defence officials, shared by most experts, is that the intelligence-gathering benefits of using a balloon are very limited. Nor is it very likely that China imagines it might go undetected. This one was, after all, visible to the naked eye. And China itself tends to react fiercely when America conducts aerial surveillance close to its territory, so it could hardly feign surprise at the American anger over the encroaching balloon. Some thought China wanted to flaunt a new intelligence-gathering capability and to embarrass Americas government, which publicly responded only after the balloon had reached Montana. If the balloon picked up any useful intelligence, it would be an added bonus. Meteorological devices can gather data that is useful for military purposes, including guiding ballistic missiles. Others thought the timing for such a deliberate provocation would be odd given Mr Xis apparent desire to stabilise relations with America and focus on dealing with covid-19 and an economic slowdown at home. They cited the uncharacteristic speed and contrition of Chinas statement as indications that it was probably a genuine error. Either way, the balloon has added an unexpected new irritant to an already deeply fraught relationship. 2023, The Economist Newspaper Limited. All rights reserved. From The Economist, published under licence. The original content can be found on www.economist.com Indian refiners have begun paying for most of their Russian oil purchased via Dubai-based traders in United Arab Emirates dirhams instead of U.S. dollars, four sources with knowledge of the matter said. While Western sanctions against Moscow are not recognised by India, and purchases of Russian oil may in any case not violate them, banks and financial institutions are cautious about clearing payments so as not to unwittingly fall foul of the many measures imposed against Russia following its invasion of Ukraine. Indian refiners and traders are concerned they may not be able to continue to settle trades in dollars, especially if the price of Russian crude rises above a cap imposed by the Group of Seven nations and Australia in December. That has led traders to seek alternative methods of payment, which could also aid Russia's efforts to de-dollarise its economy in response to the Western sanctions. Also Read: Why the Wests oil sanctions on Russia are proving to be underwhelming Previous attempts by Indian refiners to pay traders for Russian crude in dirhams through Dubai banks failed, forcing them to switch back to the U.S. currency. But India's top bank, the State Bank of India (SBI), is now clearing these dirham payments, the sources told Reuters, providing details of transactions that have not previously been reported. The SBI, which has overseas branches including in the United States, did not respond to requests for comment. Also Read: Russia has become Indias largest oil supplier': Russian Envoy The G7 price cap prohibits any Western company, such as the insurance and shipping service providers that underpin much of global trade, from involvement in trading Russian crude if the purchase price is above $60 a barrel at the loading point in Russia. That remains the case even if the oil is bound for countries such as China and India which do not recognise the cap. The shift to dirham payments was also triggered by the SBI asking refiners looking to make dollar payments for Russian crude to provide a breakdown of the costs of the oil, freight and insurance, allowing it to vet trade and avoid violating the cap. "The SBI is very conservative in its approach," one of the sources said, even though India does not follow the price cap mechanism and Western insurance and shipping are not used for delivery. Indian refiners typically buy Russian crude from traders at a price that includes delivery to India. An invoice for such a deal seen by Reuters showed traders asking for an average crude price including freight for Urals crude. The document calculated the price of the cargo in dollars and dirhams. The four sources said Indian refiners are buying Russian oil on a delivered basis to mitigate any risks arising during shipping, and so far the calculated cost at the point of loading has been below the price cap. Indian refiners mostly buy Russian crude from Dubai-basedtraders including Everest Energy and Litasco, a unit of Russianoil major Lukoil. Everest Energy and Litasco did not respond to requests for comment. India's oil secretary Pankaj Jain last month said Indian companies were not facing any problems in paying for Russian oil as the latest actions by the West do not impact the trade settlement mechanism. This story has been published from a wire agency feed without modifications to the text. Only the headline has been changed. Space Exploration Technologies Corp. is part of a payload contract NASA has awarded for as much as $100 million over a decade. Elon Musks rocket launch and satellite operator will share the contract for unspecified commercial payload processing services" with Astrotech Space Operations LLC, a unit of Lockheed Martin Corp., the governments space agency announced Friday in a statement. The deal is for payload processing, which involves preparing spacecraft to be flown on top of a rocket ahead of a flight to space. ALSO READ: Everything will be..: Elon Musk on ChatGPT passing US Medical licensing exam Neither SpaceX nor Astrotech replied immediately to a request for comment. The uncrewed missions will be launched out of Cape Canaveral, Florida, or Vandenberg Space Force Base in California and the contract could run for as many as 10 years through February of 2033, NASA said. The missions that SpaceX and Astrotech will work on involve launching satellites to observe the Earth or spacecraft that visit deep-space destinations in the Solar System, it said. This story has been published from a wire agency feed without modifications to the text. As the Ukraine-Russia war nears the one year mark, a top official has called for sanctions to be imposed against India. Senior Ukrainian lawmaker Oleksandr Merezhko urged the United States to impose secondary sanctions on China and India if they keep buying Russian energy. The official who heads the foreign affairs committee in Ukraine's parliament, also called for greater ties with Taiwan. Merezhko said that he had previously lived in New Delhi and found the question of India's oil purchases "painful". But as the war continues with no end in sight, the lawmaker also backed sanctions against buyers contending that such nations were financing the Russian economy and the Russian military machine". "They should be consistent. This is a global conflict between democracy - the free world - and authoritarian regimes. There shouldn't be any compromise because of material economic interest," he said. The western sanctions against Moscow are currently not recognised by India. Also read: SBI clears dirham payments for Russian oil as Indian traders ditch US dollars Meanwhile, according to a Reuters report citing unnamed sources, Indian refiners have started paying for a significant part of their Russian oil purchases in UAE dirhams. While the purchase of Russian oil does not at present violate any sanctions, banks and financial institutions have become increasingly wary about clearing payments in a manner that will not fall foul of the many measures imposed against the other country. Indian refiners and traders are concerned they may not be able to continue to settle trades in dollars, especially if the price of Russian crude rises above a cap imposed by the Group of Seven nations and Australia in December. That has led traders to seek alternative methods of payment, which could also aid Russia's efforts to de-dollarise its economy in response to the Western sanctions. (With inputs from agencies) The United States and Russia faced off on Saturday over a World Health Organization report on the humanitarian crisis in Ukraine, with Moscow saying it was politically motivated and Washington calling for it to be swiftly updated. WHO Director General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus's report was presented to the organisation's executive board, on which both Russia and the United States sit. It covered events in the first nine months of 2022 and classed the situation in Ukraine, which Russia invaded on Feb. 24, as one of eight acute global health emergencies. The report documented more than 14,000 civilian casualties, with 17.7 million people in need of humanitarian assistance and 7.5 million Ukrainian refugees displaced across Europe. Of 471 attacks with heavy weapons on healthcare facilities globally, 448 occurred in Ukraine, the WHO report said. Russia's representative to the WHO board called it politicised and one-sided and described its references to Ukraine as unfounded accusations. Moscow has denied targeting civilians in Ukraine since it began what it calls a special military operation, which has also devastated Ukraine's cities, killed thousands of combatants and shaken the global economy. Sheba Crocker, U.S. representative to the United Nations, called for an updated report to document incidents in Ukraine since September. "Russia's attacks ... have caused unspeakable harm to civilians and critical infrastructure in Ukraine," she told the board meeting, according to a statement from her office. "...This senseless death and destruction falls brutally on children, the elderly, and other vulnerable groups' access to vital health care," Crocker added. This story has been published from a wire agency feed without modifications to the text. Last Friday, Gen. MM Naravane, the former Indian Army chief, said the Indian Army has an advantage over the Chinese Peoples Liberation Army (PLA) at the Line of Actual Control (LAC) for the first time. This statement needs to be parsed carefully for its timing and content. First, Gen. Naravane was speaking at a forum that was releasing a new report titled Resetting Indias Tibet Policy. Tibet is a touchy issue for Indian policymakers, past and present, with the feeling that much more could have been done and can be done even if little actual progress is actually made. As such, public events on Tibet are always occasions to reiterate possibilities and burnish the credibility of the principal actors within the Indian government. Second, Gen. Naravanes public remarks followed revelations from a conference of senior Indian police officers a week earlier, at which the Army was criticised for its overly cautious approach on the LAC, and the claim was made that India had lost access to dozens of patrolling points in eastern Ladakh since the outbreak of the conflict in 2020. Given that Gen. Naravane was the Chief of Army Staff during this period, he must have felt compelled to respond in some fashion. In his remarks, Gen. Naravane appeared, however, to both confirm the contention that the Army had played it safe and reveal some fundamental misunderstandings of Chinas actions and intentions. He argued that it doesnt matter whether four Chinese soldiers were killed or 40. What is material is that we stood up to the PLA and inflicted casualties." Apart from blowing up long-standing rumours that the Chinese had lost more than four soldiers at Galwan, the general also set a somewhat low bar in terms of expectations from conflict with the Chinese. Merely standing up to the Chinese on the LAC might actually be a rather big deal, given the differential in material capabilities between the two sides, but it also gives the lie to the contention that Indian troops are more battle-hardened than the Chinese. It has been pointed out previously that the Indian Armys experience in counter-terrorism and counter-insurgency operations over the past few decades does not necessarily equip its men or leadership for conventional conflict of the sort now expected on the LAC. Gen. Naravanes contention is also not helped much by the fact that the constant effort since Galwan has been on diplomacy and getting the Chinese to withdraw from the areas they had occupied, rather than responding in kind. The manoeuvre of capturing the Kailash range heights in August 2020 was quickly reversed as soon as the Chinese agreed to begin withdrawing from Pangong Tso a few months later, even as other friction points remained. Gen. Naravanes argument is that given the PLAs lines of communication to the LAC with India were some 4,000 km long, while Indias lines of communication were considerably shorter at about 400-500 km, the Chinese were under pressure to bring the situation back to normal as soon as possible. This, he said, should allow India to negotiate with China from a position of advantage". However, this line of reasoning ignores several factors. One, the Chinese did engage in conflict at Galwan with far greater constraints. Those constraints are increasingly being whittled down with Chinese infrastructure build-up and troop accretion along the LAC. Two, if the negotiations between military commanders on both sides over the past two years are anything to go by, the Chinese have not succumbed to the pressure of the long lines of communication that the former Indian army chief speaks of. Three, comments like those of Gen. Naravane misunderstand the nature and objectives of the Chinese leadership. When the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) is engaged in what it believes is an existential conflict with the US-led West, then countries like India, which Beijing perceives are allied with the West, are fair game. Indias claims of strategic autonomy are simply not believed by the Chinese leadership. Thus, for China, the present situation with India along the LAC is not a stalemate" from which it sees no benefit and an incentive for negotiations, but an opportunity to tie the Indians down and to signal the CCPs resolve to both the US and the Chinese people. Indeed, since taking power, CCP General Secretary Xi Jinping has frequently called on the PLA to develop its capabilities and experience in real combat conditions, and situations such as at the LAC are actually seen as welcome opportunities. The message to the PLA and the Chinese leadership, therefore, is not as Gen. Naravane believes that any further aggression will draw a price" or even a heavy one" but that the Indians can be pushed around precisely because they both misunderstand the reality and are too eager to reach negotiated settlements. Global police Interpol is ready to quickly adapt to new technological tools for solving cases. Recently, Interpol secretary general Jurgen Stock said that it was really important for the agency to not be left behind as the criminals are sophisticated and professional. The global police is now all set to investigate how it can probe crime occurring in the Metaverse. As per author Neal Stephenson, a Metaverse has become an all-encompassing digital world which exists parallel to the real world. According to a report by BBC, Interpol has developed its own virtual reality space to help users train and attend virtual meetings. Moreover, Interpol secretary general Jurgen Stock believes that it was really crucial for the agency to not be left behind as the criminals are sophisticated and professional, quickly adapting to any new technological tool available to commit crime. This new virtual reality space can be only accessed through secure servers. It helps police officers to experience Metaverse, offering them an idea of what crimes that could take place and how they could be handled in future. Speaking of the crimes that could take place in Metaverse, Interpol's innovation and technology director Dr Madan Oberoi stated there have been cases of sexual harassment in the digital world. However, he says that it is difficult to apply the definition of crimes which happen in physical space in Metaverse. According to Oberoi, awareness about the problems was among the big challenges faced by Interpol. He said, If law enforcement agencies want to help people hurt in the Metaverse, they should first learn about it." The Interpol secretary general emphasises the agency will be critical in probing Metaverse crimes in the near future. He adds, Cybercrime is international by nature as almost all of the cases have an international dimension." Meanwhile, Microsoft revealed in its blog post that the company is shutting its VR facility for good. AltspaceVR, the VR platform of Microsoft will cease to exist from March 12, 2023, as per the company. Moreover, a report by Windows Central suggests that Microsoft has also fired the team behind MTRK- Mixed Reality Tool Kit- theplatform which was opened for AR and VR integrations. It seems that the company is no longer interested in the metaverse. Samsung Electronics Co has agreed to pay $150 million to British nanotechnology company Nanoco Technologies to settle patent lawsuits over technology used in Samsung's LED televisions, Nanoco and an investor in its cases said Friday. Nanoco and Chicago-based litigation funding firm GLS Capital said in a release that the settlement, which includes a license agreement and the "transfer of certain patents," resolves litigation in the United States, Germany and China. Samsung and Nanoco told a Texas federal court on the eve of a trial last month that they had agreed to settle the dispute, but no terms were disclosed at the time. ALSO READ: Samsung Galaxy S23, S23+, S23 Ultra price officially revealed in India: Details Representatives for Samsung did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Nanoco's quantum dots improve the backlighting of LED displays without the use of toxic heavy metals like cadmium. It sued Samsung in 2020, alleging the Korean tech giant copied its technology after receiving samples during talks about a potential collaboration. The Texas lawsuit said Samsung began incorporating Nanoco's technology into high-end QLED TVs launched in 2017. Third-party funding of lawsuits has becoming increasingly common in recent years, though details about specific investments are rarely publicized. Critics such as the U.S. Chamber of Commerce have warned that the practice obscures who is driving lawsuits and promotes unnecessary litigation. Backers say it can level the playing field and promote justice. Nanoco CEO Brian Tenner said in a statement that GLS Capital's financing "allowed us to pursue our claims on equal footing against a much larger adversary." GLS co-founder Adam Gill said Nanoco would receive more than 60% of the proceeds from the settlement but declined to offer additional details on their funding agreement. He said the firm was "proud" to have supported Nanoco in the dispute. GLS subsidiary Celerity IP is separately managing Taiwanese tech company Asustek Computer Inc's effort to enforce its portfolio of 3G, 4G and 5G wireless patents, Gill said. This story has been published from a wire agency feed without modifications to the text. Only the headline has been changed. Frances Ryan was born on February 28, 1922 in Weyburn, Saskatchewan, Canada, to John F. and Isabelle Sells. She grew up in the Chicago area and graduated from Northwestern University. On March 20, 1942 she was married to Robert A. Ryan, Jr. He was in the US Army Medical Corps for four years during World War II. The Ryans lived in Fairfield, Iowa, where they raised their four children. During those years she did various volunteer work, most meaningfully as an International Officer for her college fraternity, Alpha Gamma Delta, and as Treasurer and then Secretary of the National Panhellenic Conference. Frances earned a Master's Degree in Counseling and Guidance at Purdue University in 1970, then worked as a counselor at the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire before attending law school at the University of Wisconsin-Madison where she graduated with a JD in 1975. After working for fifteen years as an attorney and a judge in the Circuit Court in Madison, Wisconsin, Frances moved to Flagstaff in 2002. Having been ordained in the Episcopal Church, she has served as a Deacon, both in Madison and at the Church of the Epiphany in Flagstaff, as well as at The Peaks where she lived for several years. Meta-owned WhatsApp is one of the most popular instant messaging apps with more than 2 billion users worldwide. You can send messages, make video calls and share pictures/videos with your family and friends. But have you ever come across a situation when you do not feel like typing to reply to a message or to make calls. Or you are driving or in a situation when both of your hands are preoccupied and you can not reach your smartphone to reply to a particular message. Dont worry. There is a WhatsApp trick that allows you to send messages and make WhatsApp calls hands free. It uses your smartphones voice assistant to do the trick. Do note that this trick works only when your device is unlocked. It will not work if your smartphone is locked. Let us begin with Android phones first How to send WhatsApp messages without typing on Android To send a WhatsApp message without picking up your Android phone, you need to enable Google Assistant on it. To do so, go to Settings and click on Apps. Scroll down and tap on Assistant. Turn on the Toggle if turned off. Google requires you to say Hey Google to enable the assistant. Once done, now say Hey Google to trigger the voice assistant on your device. Next, you can ask Google Assistant to send a message to an individual or group chat. How to send WhatsApp messages without typing on iOS First thing first. Turn on Siri on your iPhone. To do so, go to Settings and tap on Siri & Search and then Listen for Hey Siri. Turn on the toggle. Now, go to Apps and scroll down to search WhatsApp. Tap on it and turn on the toggle that says Use with Ask Siri. Once done, you can now send messages and make calls hands-free on your Apple iPhone. You can begin by saying Hey Siri, send a message to... If you do not have a current print subscription to the Lodi News-Sentinel, but want to view unlimited articles for the month, please choose this option. PEACE LUTHERAN CHURCH Feb 5 Peace Lutheran Church, 3430 N. Fourth St., Flagstaff. 928-526-9578. 10-11 a.m., We invite you to join the family of Peace Lutheran Church (LCMS) on Sunday at 10:00am for in person blended service (Combined Liturgical, hymnal based and Praise Worship) with Holy Communion. Pastor William Weiss Jr. (Pastor Bill) will be presiding. The service will be live streamed on our website (peacelutheranflagstaff.org) and on YouTube. https://go.evvnt.com/1542012-0. LIVING CHRIST LUTHERAN CHURCH Feb 5 500 W. Riordan Road, 500 W. Riordan Road, Flagstaff. 928-526-8595. 10-11 a.m., We invite all to celebrate with us God's love and presence in our lives and be God's hands in the world. We are intentionally inclusive. We worship through music, teaching, prayer, and the sacraments each Sunday at 10 a.m., at the Campus Ministry Center located on the NAU campus or join us online. Join Rev. Kurt Fangmeier for the Fifth Sunday after Epiphany! Light shines in the darkness for the upright, the psalmist sings. Isaiah declares that when we loose the bonds of injustice and share our bread with the hungry, the light breaks forth like the dawn. In another passage from the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus, the light of the world, calls his followers to let the light of their good works shine before others. Through baptism we are sent into the world to shine with the light of Christ. We will hear more with Reading Micah 58:1-9a (The fast God chooses), along with Reading 1 Corinthians 2:1-12(13-16) (Gods wisdom revealed through the Spirit) and the Gospel Matthew 5:13-20 (The teaching of Christ: salt and light). https://go.evvnt.com/1540579-0. BEACON UU SUNDAY SERVICE: Hang A Thousand Ribbons: The Legacy and Poetry of Phillis Wheatley Feb 5 Beacon Unitarian Universalist Congregation, 510 N. Leroux St., Flagstaff. (928) 779-4492. 10-11 a.m., ALL ARE WELCOME! You BELONG at Beacon. Spiritually open and intentionally inclusive since 1958. In honor of Black History Month, well explore the complicated but triumphant story of Phillis Wheatly, an African-American, formerly enslaved young woman, who published a groundbreaking book of poetry in 1773. For decades, a white womans memoir shaped our understanding of Americas first Black poet. Recently, her legacy and her work has been rediscovered and un-whitewashed. Who tells our stories? Who tells the stories of African Americans in history? This service will include selections of Wheatleys poems, read by Worship Associate Nancy Paxton. Rev. Robin Landerman Zucker preaching. Music from Austin Shaw and Andrez Alcazar. https://go.evvnt.com/1538120-0. Unity of Flagstaff Spiritual Center Feb 5 Unity of Flagstaff Spiritual Center, 1800 S. Milton Road, Flagstaff. 10:30-11:30 a.m., Humans are the outpicturing of the infinite and creative Mind, said Charles Fillmore, co-founder of Unity. Join us at Unity of Flagstaff this Sunday when Rev. Penni speaks into our infinite, creative and amazing nature and how to Move from Good to Great. We are infinite beings, ever expressing our divine nature, and our divine nature, as guided by Spirit, is always seeking to evolve. Dont be afraid to Give up the Good for the Great. Life is dynamicnot static. Music with Ryan Biter. Join us Tuesdays at 10 am for Chair Yoga. Unity of FlagstaffWhere God is too big for Religion. All Are Welcome!. https://go.evvnt.com/1545616-0. Flagstaff Federated Community Church: Please join us for in person services Sundays at 10 a.m. We are located at 400 W Aspen Ave. on the corner of Aspen and Sitgreaves in Downtown Flagstaff. All are welcome to our services. For more information about Flagstaff Federated Community Church please call our office at 928-774-7383, Mon Thurs 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Church of the Resurrection Sunday Church Services: 740 W. University Heights Drive S., 740 W. University Heights Drive S., Flagstaff. 928-853-8522. 10-11:30 a.m., Church of the Resurrection Presbyterian Church in America (PCA): We invite you to join us for worship at 10 a.m. on Sundays at 740 W. University Heights Drive South. Please feel free to contact us for information on our mid-week gatherings and for more information on our church. You can find us at www.cor-pca.org and www.facebook.com/CORFlagstaff or we can be reached at corflagstaff@gmail.com and (928) 699-2715. Leupp Nazarene Church: The church, near mile post 13 or Navajo Route 15, has been holding services by teleconferences and doing drive-up meetings. For information, call pastor Farrell Begay at 928-853-5321. Teleconference number: 1-7170275-8940 with access code 3204224#. Services are 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. Sundays and 6:30 p.m. Wednesdays. Christian Science Society of Flagstaff: 619 W. Birch Ave. The Christian Science Society of Flagstaff has opened for Sunday services while continuing to have them available via Zoom for online and phone. Wednesday testimony meetings are available only via Zoom. For phone Sunday Services: Dial: 669-900-9128, Meeting ID: 369 812 794#, Passcode: 075454#. For phone Wednesday meetings, dial: 669-900-9128, Meeting ID: 971 672 834#, Passcode: 894826#. The access for Zoom on Sundays is: https://zoom.us/j/369812794. The Zoom access for Wednesdays is: https://zoom.us/j/971672834. The password to use to enter both is CSS. We welcome all to attend our Sunday Services in person, or live by Zoom, at 10:00 oclock, and to attend our Wednesday Testimony meetings live by Zoom, at 5:30 oclock. Our Reading Room will be open on Wednesdays from 4:005:00 p.m. and Saturdays from 10-12 noon. For further information please call 928-526-5982. Fresh from her sold-out launch in Dublin, Anne Gildea brings her hilarious comedy How to get the Menopause & Enjoy it to Backstage on Friday, February 10. Join her on this fabulous, informative, laugh-out-loud, trip through all things Menopause. Anne brings her keen comedic skills to this topic that affects 51% of the population yet is still treated like a mystery. What is it? Why does it happen? How come it barely bothers some women and shakes others to the core? Why is it named after men? Why didnt our mammies warn us about it? Is there anything you can do about it? And why, oh why is so little known about this inevitable phase of lady-life? Anne answers all these questions and more, as she brings TMI to a whole new level. Katy Hayes of the Independent says Anne, "captures perfectly the dilemma of Irish women of her generation, hobbled by the micro-oppressions of conservative Catholicism, and engaging in a lifetime of micro-battles against this force. I am definitely the target audience for this show, and it spoke directly to me. But if any young people want to know whats really going on in their mams and aunties secret lives, this funny and taboo-busting work blasts the lid right off. Anne Gildea is a founder member of comedy super-group The Nualas and a well-known comedienne and writer. Most recently, her memoir, Ive got Cancer. Whats Your Excuse inspired the feature film The Bright Side which premiered in cinemas last year and is now streaming on Amazon Prime. Tickets for How to Get the Menopause and Enjoy It in Backstage Theatre, Longford on Friday, February 10 at 8pm are 20 with a 10% discount for groups of 10 or more and are available on 043 33 47888 or backstage.ie An Edgeworthstown man who pleaded guilty to a string of offences including fraud, drink driving and possession of unlicensed animal medicines will return before Longford District Court in May to have charges against him finalised. Seamus Kane (53) Ardagullion, Edgeworthstown, Longford, was charged with a number of counts of dishonestly by deception inducing the Minister of the Department of Social Protection to pay money into financial institutions. Mr Kane was charged with drink driving, driving without a drivers licence or insurance at Tonywarden Granard on June 18, 2022, and possession of veterinary medicines only licensed to registered veterinary practitioners. A charge of dangerous driving was withdrawn by the State. Inspector Dave Jordan first outlined details of the drink driving charge against Seamus Kane. Inspector Jordan described to Judge Bernadette Owens how officers saw a vehicle driving in an erratic manner on June 18, 2022. The Gardai followed it and saw the vehicle drive up on the grass verge. The car was stopped and when Mr Kane stepped out of it he was unsteady on his feet. The officers arrested him and conveyed the defendant to Granard Garda station where he submitted a blood sample for a test. Mr Kane returned a blood alcohol reading of 236mg per 100ml of blood. The reading is well over four times the legal limit of 50mg per 100 ml. Mr Kane was serving a driving ban at the time of his arrest, having been disqualified for six years in 2020 for driving without insurance. Inspector Jordan then outlined details of the Pandemic Unemployment Payment (PUP) fraud perpetrated by the defendant. On October 31, 2020 Seamus Kane made an online application for the PUP payment. In the application he stated he was self employed. An investigation by Revenue Commissioners indicated he has not filed Revenue returns to show self employment and as such was not entitled to the payment. He received a total of 11 payments, ten of 350 and one of 203. The charge of possessing a regulated veterinary medicine, Norocaine, came to light when officers executed a search warrant on the defendant's home. The drug is only allowed to be handled by veterinary practitioners. Addressing the judge Seamus Kane's solicitor, Brid Mimnagh, said the drug was in her client's house for some time. Its expiry date was November '08, and it was used at that time to dehorn cattle. Ms Mimnagh said with regard to the PUP fraud her client had made the application believing if he was not entitled to it he would be declined. She said he was practically self-employed fixing tractors and as a farmer. Ms Mimnagh said when Covid hit Mr Kane could not employ an accountant to do his accounts and could not do them himself. The solicitor said he found himself in a Catch 22 situation. In regard to the drink driving issue Ms Mimnagh acknowledged her client's horrendous difficulty with alcohol. She beseeched the court not to send him to prison as he is trying his very best not to come to the attention of Gardai. The solicitor said Mr Kane knows he will serve a lengthy ban and will never drive again as he will be in his 70s before he can get his licence restored. Ms Mimnagh said the defendant is terrified of going to prison. Concluding the matters Judge Owens imposed a fine of 750 for the charge of possessing unlicensed veterinary medicine. With regard to the PUP fraud the judge noted that an aggravating factor was that Mr Kane was on bail for another theft and fraud offence at the time and should have been more diligent. For that offence he received a four month custodial sentence, but it was suspended for 18 months. A condition attached to the suspended sentence is the payment of 1,500 in compensation by the defendant to the Department before April 30, 2024. With regard to the drink driving charge Judge Owens described it as more problematic. The judge said she wants to see how Mr Kane is addressing his alcohol addiction. The judge directed the preparation of a probation report and adjourned sentencing to May 23, 2023. Requiem for the Big House, a Decade of Centenaries documentary film, will premiere in Ballymahon Community Library on Wednesday, February 8 at 7.30pm. The film is the work of Dr Charles Lambert and Ronan Daly of Kilglass House, Legan. It is commissioned by Longford Library, Heritage and Archives Services, part of Longford County Council. Exploring the Big Houses of Longford, the film looks at historically-important country estates of the Anglo-Irish landed class, focusing on such houses from the early years of the twentieth-century. Stories are told through interviews with historians and the relatives of both owners and workers. It is punctuated by images and archival footage. Longford County Council Cathaoirleach Cllr Turlough McGovern, shared his enthusiasm for the project. This is an important film, as it will shed new light on this part of our local history. Many people are familiar with the places which are the subject of this documentary, but many more people will learn new things about their area and County Longford. I encourage everyone to take time to see this important film and thank all involved for their time, talent and dedication in this work. Longford County Council Chief Executive Paddy Mahon added, Longfords Big Houses, a major part of the Irish landscape and society, offer an avenue to explore our history, including looking more broadly at the period of the Irish Revolution. This documentary gives a new and balanced perspective. Longford County Council, through Longford Library, Heritage and Archives Services, is proud to support this work and see it brought in front of audiences. Dr Charles Lambert is delighted with the response and how the film came to be. The Decade of Centenaries funding has provided a perfect opportunity to take stock of our history, and by taking a clearer look at the past, so we can understand where we are now. We are extremely lucky to have found so many important stories which, until now, have been previously untold. The generosity of the local community who came forward to contribute, combined with the leading academics in their field who have all given their time so selflessly, have made this film a pleasure to make and a feast of surprising facts and stories. For further information, including on further screenings and the films online release, check out Longfordlibraries.ie or follow Longford Library Services on social media. Dear EarthTalk: Why havent the governments of the world come together to ban or limit the production of plastics globally like theyve done to reduce ozone depleting chemicals in the 1980s and greenhouse gasses more recently? -- Peter B., Wallingford, CT Plastic, originally hailed for its longevity and hygienic single-use properties, is one of the newest battlegrounds for environmentalists and world governments. Though bans of some forms of plastic exist in more than 60 countries around the world, a global ban has proven to be elusive. In 2019, 170 countries voted to significantly reduce their use of plastic by 2030 at the United Nations Environmental Assembly in Nairobi, Kenya. This agreement, though, was non-binding, and mostly targeted "throw-aways" such as plastic bags, ignoring other forms of plastic pollution so as to serve more as a band-aid than a cure to this prolific problem. The global scale of plastic pollution is mind-boggling, but necessary to understanding the importance of a world-wide ban. Microplastics can give a sense of how entrenched plastic has become in the interwoven web that is our global food system. According to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), microplastics pieces of plastic smaller than 5mm can easily be ingested by animals such as fish, and end up on peoples dinner plates because of the prevalence of pollution in the worlds oceans. Plastic can take 1,000 years to decompose, meaning that every piece of plastic that has ever been created still exists, and only continually gets smaller and smaller. National Geographic reports that even the Mariana Trench, the deepest spot in the worlds oceans, has not been spared. A plastic bag found down there, far removed from any human activity, shows just how widespread plastic pollution is globally. The sheer ubiquity of plastic has meant that even well-meaning and well-executed previous bans on plastics on a regional scale have hardly made a dent. The World Economic Forum notes that Canadas ban on single-use plastic, for example, promises zero plastic waste there by 2030, echoing the non-binding agreement of the United Nations in 2019. However, environmental advocates worry that 2030 is too far away a goal, and that may be part of the reason why, on March 2, 2022, the United Nations Environmental Assembly passed the worlds first international and legally-binding agreement to end plastic pollution fully by 2024. Inger Anderson, Executive Director of UNEP, lauded the deal as the most significant environmental multilateral deal since the Paris Accord. This treaty calls for regulation on the full life-cycle of plastic, from production to decomposition, and is the first of its kind to unite 173 nations in combating plastic pollution. Against the backdrop of geopolitical turmoil, the UN Environment Assembly (UNEA) shows multilateral cooperation at its bestpollution has grown into an epidemic, says Espen Barth Eide, Norways minister for climate and environment, and president of UNEA. With todays resolution we are officially on track for a cure. Coming to a consensus around this agreement represents a unifying moment in world history for stepping towards a greener and healthier Earth. Of course, the treaty will take some time to be adopted widely, so proactive steps like using reusable bags and phasing out single-use plastics are still important when looking at decreasing our global use of plastics. Global food prices dropped for the tenth consecutive month in January, the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO) said on Friday. Tracking monthly changes in the global prices of commonly traded food commodities, the latest index averaged 131.2 points in January, falling 0.8% since December. FAO reported small price decreases on its latest meat and sugar indices. "Strong harvest progress in Thailand and favourable weather conditions in Brazil outweighed the impact on sugar prices due to concerns over lower crop yields in India, higher gasoline prices in Brazil, which support demand for ethanol, as well as the Brazilian reals appreciation against the US dollar," the report stated. At the same time, vegetable oil prices fell 2.9%, stemming from subdued global import demand for palm and soy oils and ample export availabilities of sunflower seed and rapeseed oils. Cereal prices remained essentially unchanged since December. International wheat prices fell for the third consecutive month. The 2.5% decrease relates to Australia and Russia outpacing production expectations. Meanwhile, slightly higher global maize prices were rooted in a strong demand for exports from Brazil and concerns over dry conditions in Argentina. Cheese became slightly more expensive despite dairy prices averaging 1.4% lower than in December, which came after lighter demand from leading importers and increased supplies from New Zealand. Currency movements drove the price increase alongside a recovery in food services and retail sales in Western Europe following the New Year holiday. Global rice prices climbed 6.2% from December, triggered by tighter availabilities. Other factors included strong local demand in some Asian exporting countries and exchange rate movements. In its latest Cereal Supply and Demand Brief, FAO expects international trade in cereals in the 2022/23 period to decline by 1.7% from the previous years record level of 474 million tons. Early indications point to likely area expansions for winter wheat cropping in the Northern Hemisphere. However, higher costs may affect the amount of fertiliser that can be applied to crops, with adverse implications for yields. Record planting is forecast for India, spurred by high market and support prices, and relatively high planting is projected in Pakistan as standing water from the 2022 floods is causing less hindrance than initially anticipated, stated the FAO report. In the Southern Hemisphere countries, most of the 2023 coarse grain crops have been sown. Brazil may post record maize plantings, while those in Argentina could decrease due to low soil moisture levels and weather conditions augur well for maize yield prospects in South Africa, it added.-TradeArabia News Service February 18 marks the 93rd anniversary of Plutos discovery in northern Arizona. To celebrate, Lowell Observatory is partnering with other Flagstaff organizations in hosting the Fourth Annual I Heart Pluto Festival. It runs from February 18-20 and features a keynote presentation by Astronaut Nicole Stott, the dedication of Clyde Tombaughs historic 9-inch telescope, a Pluto Pub Crawl, science talks, Pluto-themed drinks and food, special tours, and family activities. A Night of Discovery, on the evening of February 18 at the Orpheum Theater, is the keynote event of this years festival. NASA astronaut, aquanaut and space artist Nicole Stott headlines this event that celebrates exploration and discovery. Stott creatively combines the awe and wonder of her spaceflights and undersea adventures with her artwork to inspire people around the world. Doors open at 6 p.m., and guests may also enjoy a space art show by the International Association of Astronomical Artists, axe throwing courtesy of FlagTag, custom-crafted, Pluto-themed beer by Mother Road Brewing Company, and more. Another signature event will be the dedication of the 9-inch Tombaugh Telescope, which Clyde Tombaugh hand-assembled in 1928 from machinery parts lying around the family's farm in Burdette, Kansas. This ceremony will take place at Lowell Observatory on February 18 at 12:30 p.m. Flagstaff Mayor Becky Daggett and other local dignitaries, as well as Tombaugh family members, will be on hand. It was drawings that Tombaugh made with this telescope that led to him being hired at Lowell Observatory; within a year, and using a larger instrument, Tombaugh would discover Pluto. In addition to these programs, several science presentations will also be given. Speakers include Dr. Alan Stern, New Horizons Mission Principal Investigator (interviewed by KNAU Science Reporter Melissa Sevigny); Alice Bowman, New Horizons Mission Operations Manager; Dr. Will Grundy, New Horizons Mission Surface Composition Team Leader; and Dr. Amanda Bosh, planetary scientist and co-discoverer of Plutos atmosphere. The Stern and Bowman programs are virtual, while the Grundy and Bosh programs will be in-person at Lowell Observatory. VIP experience A VIP experience includes access to all I Heart Pluto events, an exclusive meet & greet/book signing reception with Nicole Stott, 1 copy of Stotts book, Back to Earth, and more. Space is limited. For more information and to purchase tickets to the VIP Experience, see https://iheartpluto.org/vip/. Pre-festival events Prior to the start of the Festival, Mother Road Brewing Company will host Cheers to Pluto: Beer Unveiling and Astronomy on Tap. This takes place at Mother Roads on February 16 at 6 p.m. Mother Road will first unveil its limited-edition beer, brewed exclusively for this years I Heart Pluto Festival. Then, a special Astronomy on Tap presentation will feature Alden Tombaugh (son of Pluto discoverer Clyde) and Lowell Observatory historian Kevin Schindler sharing the remarkable story of Clyde Tombaughs handmade 9-inch telescope, a precious historical artifact that will soon be on display in Lowell Observatorys Rotunda Museum. A second pre-Festival event, on February 17, will also appeal to those who love a good, stiff, Pluto-themed drink. Its the Pluto Pub Crawl, and participants will explore Flagstaffs finest pubs, bars, and brewhouses aligned in the shape of the Pluto symbol. Participants follow maps to each stop, where they will enjoy custom-made Pluto drinks and specials. At each stop, Lowell Observatory educators will also give science talks, trivia, and more. Information and tickets All I Heart Pluto activities happening at Lowell Observatory are covered under the regular price of admission. Tickets for the February 18 Night of Discovery at the Orpheum Theater are available at the door or at https://wl.seetickets.us/event/I-HeartPlutoNightOfDiscovery/524524?afflky=OrpheumTheater A complete schedule of I Heart Pluto events is available at https://iheartpluto.org/schedule/. World Cancer Day 2023 Advertisement The WHO called for collective action to provide prompt treatment referral, to enhance access to palliative care, and to close the gap in access to quality cancer services -- the theme of this year's commemoration.In the WHO Southeast Asia region, an estimated 2.3 million people developed cancer in 2020, and 1.4 million died of the disease.Cancer is estimated to account for more than 20 percent of premature mortality from non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in the region, which stand at around 4.7 million deaths every year.In 2020, cancer of the lungs, breast and cervix accounted for 4,00,000 of the total number of cancer-related deaths in the region, and almost two-thirds of people diagnosed with cancer succumbed to the disease, highlighting the urgent need for improved early diagnosis and treatment.WHO Regional Director for Southeast Asia, Poonam Khetrapal Singh, said that since 2014, the region has accelerated action to prevent, detect, treat and control cancer, with increased focus on eliminating cervical cancer as a public health problem."Eight countries of the Region now have in place population-based cancer registries (PCBRs), and three countries -- Myanmar, Nepal and Sri Lanka -- are focus countries for addressing childhood cancer. Ten of the region's 11 member states provide tertiary care services for cancer diagnosis and treatment - including surgical and chemotherapy services - and nine also offer radiotherapy services," she said."WHO continues to support countries of the Region to implement its new Regional Action Plan on Oral Health 2022-2030, including oral cancers, which in 2020 were among the top five most common cancers, accounting for 7.4 percent of new cancers. Five countries of the region -- Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Sri Lanka and Thailand -- now have in place national cancer control plans, which Maldives and Nepal are in the process of finalizing. The Region is currently on track to achieve the WHO NCD Global Action Plan target of a 30 percent relative reduction in tobacco use prevalence between 2010 and 2025."Singh further added that on cervical cancer, the region is achieving rapid, life-saving progress.Bhutan, Maldives, Myanmar, Sri Lanka and Thailand have introduced nation-wide HPV vaccination, which Bangladesh, India and Timor-Leste are also set to launch.Indonesia has introduced HPV vaccination in several provinces, covering tens of millions of girls. New evidence shows that a single dose of HPV vaccine delivers protection comparable to the 2-dose schedule, which alongside additional cost reductions, should enable countries to reach every woman and girl.Talking about accelerating the progress to close the care gap, Singh pointed out several priorities for the region like introducing and expanding HPV vaccination in routine immunization to prevent cervical cancer.Secondly, she opined increasing capacity at the primary health care (PHC) level to detect cancers early with a focus on intensified health workforce training.Third, rapidly, and systematically, advancing the capacity of tertiary care facilities to provide comprehensive diagnostic and treatment services that is critical to reduce cancer mortality. Fourth, to include the cancer services in risk pooling or pre-payment schemes and health benefit packages."In the last two decades, the world has made significant progress in the science of cancer control. However, much more work is needed to close the care gap, improve cancer survival, and accelerate towards the NCD 2025 and Sustainable Development Goal targets 2030," she added.Source: IANS Fifty House Republicans have resurrected a bill that would allow some veterans considered to be mentally disabled to buy and own firearms, saying a Department of Veterans Affairs policy unfairly strips them of their Second Amendment rights. Rep. Mike Bost, R-Ill., chairman of the House Veterans Affairs Committee, introduced legislation Thursday that would bar the VA from reporting certain veterans to the FBI's national background check database without first getting a judge's consent. The bill, the Veterans 2nd Amendment Protection Act, or H.R. 705, would add a step to the VA's process of reporting information to the National Instant Criminal Background Check System on veterans who receive help managing their finances and benefits. Read Next: Sources: Fort Sill Commander Suspended from Duty for Allegedly Breaking Hunting Rules on Base By law, veterans who are incapable of overseeing their own bills may be assigned a fiduciary who manages a veteran's financial affairs -- assistance the VA reports to the background check system as a disability that may preclude the veteran from purchasing a firearm. Bost said VA staff's ability to decide that a veteran who can't manage their bills is a danger to themselves or society is a form of discrimination that he argues may actually hurt a veteran by preventing them from seeking care and benefits from the VA. "No VA bureaucrat should have the ability to instantly strip a veteran of their 2nd Amendment Rights simply because they use a fiduciary to help them manage their benefits. I have heard from veterans that this current policy stops them from going to the VA for care and services," he said in a statement Friday. Bost previously introduced the bill in 2021, but it was not considered by the House Veterans Affairs Committee in the majority Democrat House. He told Military.com on Monday that he thought objection to the bill was a reflection of increased partisanship on military oversight committees. When I first came in, the VA committee was one of the most nonpartisan committees that was out there, he said. I have all intention of making sure it's that way." The legislation last gained traction in 2018 when it was introduced by then-Committee Chairman Rep. Dr. Phil Roe, R-Tenn. It passed the House 240-175, with a dozen Democrats joining the majority but never was considered by the Senate. In the Senate, similar legislation has been proposed by Republican Chuck Grassley of Iowa and Democrat Joe Manchin of West Virginia. Under the Brady Act, the Justice Department may collect information from federal agencies of anyone whose ownership or position of a firearm would violate federal law, including those who are a danger to themselves or others; who lack the mental capacity to contract or manage their own affairs; or have been found insane by a court or incompetent to stand trial. Bost said the direct reporting process for veterans who require a fiduciary violates their due process rights. "For far too long, the men and women who have fought to protect every American's constitutional right to bear arms have wrongfully been discriminated against," Bost said. The VA is required by law to inform veterans assigned a fiduciary of the possible impact of their acceptance of a financial manager. Supporters of the VA's process say it protects veterans and note that the department is following the law spelled out in the Brady Act, thus contributing to public safety. Speaking on the House floor during debate on the legislation in 2017, Rep. Mark Takano, D-Calif., now the House Veterans Affairs Committee ranking member, noted that two-thirds of veteran suicides occur by firearm, including the death of his uncle, a Vietnam veteran. "To be clear, there are veterans currently flagged in the background check system who should not be there, and we need to create a fair and streamlined process for veterans to appeal their status," Takano said at the time. "But there is a balance between protecting veterans' Second Amendment rights and protecting veterans who are a danger to themselves or others." In 2020, 6,146 veterans died by suicide, 68% by using a firearm. As part of its suicide prevention initiatives, the VA has launched a public safety campaign encouraging the safe handling and storage of firearms. The Veterans of Foreign Wars and the American Legion both issued statements Friday in support of Bost's bill. According to Kristina Keenan, the VFW's deputy legislative director, the organization opposes the reporting practice because it deprives veterans of due process. "The VFW is also concerned that this practice stigmatizes mental health by forcing veterans to choose between seeking the care they need to cope with injuries and illnesses sustained through military service and their ability to keep their firearms," Keenan said in a statement. "Veterans should not be concerned that they could lose their Second Amendment rights when seeking mental health assistance," agreed American Legion National Commander Vincent Troiola in an issued statement. "If it is necessary to have a fiduciary appointed to assist them, any transmittal of a veteran's personal information to the Federal Bureau of Investigation's National Instant Criminal Background Check System should be done by a judicial authority, not a bureaucrat." In 2017, more than four dozen groups came out in opposition of the legislation, including Blue Star Families, an advocacy organization for active-duty military personnel and their families. -- Patricia Kime can be reached at Patricia.Kime@Military.com. Follow her on Twitter @patriciakime Related: Making Sure Vets Get PACT Act Benefits Is New House Veterans Affairs Chairman's Top Priority As of Jan. 17, veterans thinking about hurting themselves can get free crisis care, including inpatient, for up to 90 days at Veterans Affairs. They do not need to be enrolled in VA care. For immediate help, dial 988, then press 1. Editors Note: This is the first story in a multipart series. Col. Tom Stewart saw Staff Sgt. Chris DeLano for the last time at a brewery in Brookfield, Massachusetts. DeLano had texted Stewart sometime in November 2020 and asked to meet uphe had something important to tell him. Sir, I need to see you, the text read. Stewart had retired from the Massachusetts Army National Guard more than a year earlier. At the brewery, DeLano, 36, skipped the beer. He had been diagnosed with throat cancer, he told Stewart. What are the doctors telling you? Stewart asked, concerned about an enlisted soldier who had come to rely on him. They said Im going to make it through, DeLano said. DeLano still worked for the Guard full time at an armory nearly two hours away from his Middleborough home. But because of the pandemic, DeLano spent most of the year working from home. When he told his chain of command about his cancer treatment, he moved to an armory closer to where he lived. While the treatment kept him from drinking at the brewery, the food truck selling tacos wasnt off limits, and neither were a few late-night episodes of Cobra Kai back at Stewarts home just a town away. DeLano had driven more than an hour to reach Stewartand with a clear purpose, Stewart thought. He had no reason not to believe what DeLano shared. But it wasnt true. None of it was true. Stewart often helped his soldiers through adversity. And DeLano, as an enlisted soldier, sometimes worked more intimately with soldiers in pain than a field-grade officer could. He and Stewart had served together when they deployed with the 182nd Infantry Regiment to Afghanistan in 2011: Stewart as battalion commander, DeLano as a private. Loss had bound together Stewart and DeLano in the years after they returned home. Stewarts first soldier, a member of DeLanos platoon, died from cancer during the units 12-month deployment. Then Staff Sgt. Jorge Oliveiraa New Jersey guardsman attached to their unitdied in combat. The command system, out of Stewarts control, left many of the men feeling as if their leadership didnt care about them even as they fought for their lives in Afghanistan. They completed their mission abroad, and Stewart brought 684 of them home. But within 12 months, at least four soldiers had taken their own lives. In the months and years that followed, Stewart and DeLano continued to see loss after loss of soldiers theyd deployed with to suicide. They both knew soldiers who had attempted to kill themselves, and still more who had thought about it. As they worked to keep their fellow fighters alive, they both fought to do the things that they hoped would keep them strong and resilient long after they left the battlefield. I met DeLano because my husband had worked with him as a civilian and later as a soldier. From a distance, I saw pieces of the units story from beginning to end. As a journalist, I talked to dozens of soldiers as the losses continued after the unit returned home. The mission started out rough for the 182nds four companies, which were spread out across Afghanistan. Some soldiers saw combat from the moment they arrived in country. One platoon spent its first day in theater helping with the aftermath of a battle that left dozens wounded and dead. Leadership problems followed that stark entry to war: The unit worked with provincial reconstruction teams, which meant a constant rotation of new facesfaces of people who seemed to care little about a National Guard unit from Massachusetts, even though, by that point, reservists and Guard members had more than proven themselves in Iraq and Afghanistan. The soldiers were trained to survive, but always while looking out for the next person. Always in the service of someone else. Always as part of a unit. Theres nothing romantic in war, says Sgt. 1st Class Hercules Lobo, who had been a young sergeant when he deployed with the unit in 2011. But thats how those kids felt. They felt belonging to a group of guys that were for each other. We were covering each others asses. We would do anything for each other. When they returned home, they felt as if they were on their own. Back home, the unit dissipated as members returned to their day jobsthe jobs where nobody understood, where camaraderie didnt exist in quite the same way in cubicles, warehouses, or college classrooms. Where calling in sick didnt mean someone else died in your place. For some, like DeLano, it became easier to call in sick than to add to an already full cup with everyday problems: a drop from an irritated boss, a drop from a virus that forced isolation, a drop from a spouse who needed to connect. One more seemingly small pushanother dropand the cup overflows. In the unit, someone always understood. Outside? They didnt understand. The guardsmen faced all of the issues of active-duty service members returning from deployment, but their squad leaders didnt see them at each morning formation. Their platoon sergeants couldnt recommend military services specific to each individual because they couldnt determine the needs. And their brothers-in-arms werent there daily to put things in perspective. Civilian life felt deeply individualistic, Lobo says, and was a stark contrast to the days of military consistency they came to expect. They dont have that squad leader, that team leader to tell them, No, thats not the way, he says. Or in the morning, tell them to get up, like, Get up, lets go for a run. Some who seemed OK, who Stewart and others had watched and lifted, didnt make it. Others who seemed strong, who had worked to help others, also fell. The suicides and attempts became a constant. Just as the Guard members seemed to regroup, to recite the lines every veteran learns to reciteIm here for you. Call me. Ill answer at 2 a.m.someone else would take their own life. The unit spiraled, flowing in and out of thoughts of what theyd seen as they lost yet another friend, several soldiers told The War Horse. Four service members in the Massachusetts National Guard have died in combat since the start of the post-9/11 wars. As many as three dozen of its soldiers and airmen have died by suicide in that same span. One of its largest spikes came because of the suicide deaths of soldiers who had deployed between 2010 and 2012 within the states infantry battalions, the 181st and 182nd. As things got worse, death itself became a means of intervention: Funerals reunited buddies, and they quietly identified who could be next. The military pushed care. Friends pushed resources. Families begged their loved ones to seek help. But the stigmathe feeling of weaknesslingers, even after 20 years of war and acknowledgment. Combat veterans, particularly those with civilian day jobs or who want to move up the Guard ranks, fear their employers will see psychiatric care in their history and wonder if theyre a risk. Besides, counselors who didnt serve in war couldnt possibly understand their experiences, several soldiers told The War Horse. The guardsmen have also discovered solutionsideas that could help any unit build and maintain resilience. They all start from the same place: deeper, sustained, organic connections. But for the thousands of service members already lost, including both DeLano and the soldier he considered a hero, those solutions will come too late. Even as DeLano worked to help other soldiers, his own story had already begun to unravel. It Was a Big Shock to Them The first day Delta Companys second platoonDeLanos platoonlanded at Camp Wright in northeast Afghanistans Kunar province in June 2011, they saw medical helicopters carrying soldiers from a series of attacks that left as many as 38 people wounded or dead. They basically had to drop their bags and help bring stretchers to the field surgical team, says Maj. Joel Simpson, Deltas company commander. The newly arrived soldiers lined up to donate blood. That first experience the minute they got thereit was a big shock to them, Simpson says. A realization. He pauses. I think a lot of guys still talk about it, he says. It wasnt that the unit had never seen combat before. The Massachusetts National Guards 182nd Infantry Regiment, to which Stewart, DeLano, Simpson, and Lobo belonged, is the oldest combat regiment in the U.S. Army. The 182nd is one of the three original regiments of the National Guard, which organized on Dec. 13, 1636. Like the nation it fought to bear and preserve, the 182nd is soaked in stories of success and scars. Their battle streamers reflect participation in nearly every American-fought war since 1775. It, along with its sister regiment, the 181st Infantry, comprised the Massachusetts militia and are the only infantry units to have fought in the battles of Lexington, Concord, and Arlington, leading up to the Revolutionary War. The 182nd was also one of the first U.S. Army regiments to enter combat in World War II. Army Gen. Daniel Hokanson, chief, National Guard Bureau, attends the reenactment marking the 385th anniversary of the First Muster, Salem, Massachusetts, April 9, 2022. The history of the National Guard began on December 13, 1636, when the General Court of the Massachusetts Bay Colony ordered the organization of the Colonys militia companies into three regiments. The first muster of the East Regiment took place in Salem. (Jim Greenhill/U.S. Army National Guard) Before 9/11, the National Guard mainly responded to state-level emergencies. After 9/11, its commitment to the federal fight accelerated with multiple and prolonged deployments. More than a third of soldiers deployed after 2001 came from reserve components: Throughout the majority of the post-9/11 wars, the National Guard deployed more people than the Marine Corps. In March 2011, the 182nd, commanded by Stewart, headed to its first full battalion deployment since World War IIthis time to Afghanistan to replace its sister unit, the 181st Infantry Regiment. After arriving at Camp Phoenix in Bagram, the battalions four companies divided into 12 platoons to provide security for the provincial reconstruction teams. The teams, made up of service members from NATO nations, including the United States, spread out across Afghanistan. Each team, led by civil affairs officers outside the 182nd, would work to build relationships with local citizens through humanitarian and reconstruction projects. The 182nd would assist in the work while providing security. In each team, the platoon leader and first sergeant fell under the command of an American colonel-level officer from any branch. For the 182nds deployment, none of the reconstruction team commanders happened to be from the Army. That structure caused frustrations for some of the platoons. Sgt. Maj. [Greg] Widberg and Colonel Stewart would take trips out to the platoons to try to smooth out any issues, says Kenneth Pitts, the 182nds deployment operations sergeant major. Sometimes, it was trying to teach a submarine commander from the Navy how to fight a land war. We Just Knew Who He Was and Who He Would Be DeLano enlisted in 2010 into the Massachusetts Army National Guards 1-182 Infantry Regiment after he learned that my husband, who was his supervisor at a security company at the time, would soon deploy to Afghanistan. A medical issue kept my husband from the deployment, but DeLano would go. DeLano never said much, but he did a lot for those he cared about. One time, a light fixture, original to our 1926 home, caught fire. While we were out of the house, DeLano, a skilled electrician, spent a whole day rewiring our lights to bring them up to code. But sometimes, we couldnt understand where the winds of thought took him. He had been demoted shortly before leaving for Afghanistan because he missed a few training events. DeLano had lived with us shortly before he enlisted, then briefly kept us as his emergency contact. The first time we got a call because he was AWOL, or absent without leave, we tracked him down to Cobbetts Pond in New Hampshireto the ashes of his father, who had died early in DeLanos teenage years. The lead-up to deployment sent DeLano, already reserved, into deeper moments of thoughtful reflection, andthough he never said it to useven hesitation, my husband and I realized. One of DeLanos squad leaders, Staff Sgt. Kevin O'Boyle noticed it too. OBoyle, who had already deployed to Afghanistan in 2003, had some tools in place from that operation. He understood that situations at home could distract soldiers from their mission, so he worked to take care of his troops. OBoyle served as the go-to leader, Lobo says. When the government threatened to shut down in April 2011, potentially delaying paychecks for service members, OBoyle pulled together his platoon, which was already at the mobilization station at Camp Atterbury, Indiana. [He] told them, Listen, if you have any debt to pay, any money you still owe somebody, hit me up right now because I have some savingsI can help you guys out, Lobo recalls. A lot of soldiers had bills to pay, Lobo says. OBoyle paid bills for the entire platoon. OBoyles mother, Maureen OBoyle, says that while her son was deployed, she would find money from him deposited into her bank account. The platoon would come to rely on OBoyle. At Camp Atterbury, when platoon members first introduced themselves to the reconstruction teams theyd work with, OBoyles soldiers hooah-ed the loudest when his name was called. We just knew who he was and who he would be to the rest of the guys then, says Navy Yeoman 1st Class Darlene Croston, who served with the reconstruction team. Lobo respected OBoyle. DeLano idolized him. You Never, Ever Leave Your Guys Hanging The battalion anticipated the problems the reconstruction team model would create because they saw some of it play out during the 181sts deployment, many soldiers told The War Horse. But internal conflicts still consumed the platoons that did not get along with their reconstruction team commanders. Some of the friction on the decisions being made by noninfantry or even non-Army officers would really run against what the senior NCOsthe career infantry soldierswould think would be a good idea of security, says Pitts, the operations sergeant major. In one instance, a soldier tried to harm himself while on tower duty in a cry for help, someone with firsthand knowledge of the incident tells The War Horse. The unit also sent home early a platoon sergeant who repeatedly challenged his reconstruction team commander, soldiers tell The War Horse. Another platoon sergeant, known for his intense arguments with his reconstruction team commander, asked to leave the deployment earlyonly to return weeks later as a civilian contractor. Battalion leadership learned about his return when they saw him at a dining facility in Kabul. When leadership started to leavethe right people, where the right leaders didnt have the influence anymorethose platoons had so much [sic] issues compared to the other platoons, says one service member who asked to remain anonymous because they feared reprisal for speaking without permission. The leadership challenges ultimately endangered soldiers lives, some soldiers say. In Kunar, Delta Company sent squads to Outpost Nevada, which overlooked the Ganjgal Valley, to deter Taliban fighters who had been firing from the mountains into U.S. bases below. The Ganjgal had seen battle before: Marine Corporal Dakota Meyer earned his Medal of Honor there in 2009 when he risked his life to save others after an ambush by some 50 enemy fighters. The area remained dangerous when Delta Company arrived. At one point, squad members captured a Taliban fighter who came to their hilltop. The squad learned he was the uncle of a local Taliban leaderand they knew the Taliban wouldnt give up one of their own easily. Taliban fighters outnumbered the 10 Delta Company squad members by about eight to one when they launched an offensive to free the man. The problem was the battle went on over eight hours, so they were running out of ammo, Stewart says of the soldiers. But their reconnaissance team commander, a Navy officer, didnt respond quickly to resupply the squad. Our guys are up there thinking, No resupplys coming, no ammo, Stewart says. Thinking, This is it. Outpost Nevada sat in FOB Wrights line of sight, so the rest of the platoon could see the flashes of light at night and hear the explosions and gunfire. But their leadership didnt authorize them to do anything about it. And a heavier fight was underway north of Kunar, leeching resources, including air support, away from the platoon. The 25th Infantry Division, at Forward Operating Base Joyce on the other side of the valley, could also see the battle, but didnt realize American soldiers needed help. The reconstruction team commander faced pressure from Deltas platoon sergeant and others, who gathered in the tactical operations center at FOB Wright. They urged the Navy commander to send a Delta squad as a quick reaction force and to resupply the team on the ground. The reconstruction team commander, Navy Col. Scott Murdock, says he had requested a reaction force from another base, but it took a while to hear back. Meanwhile, jets dropped bombs in the area, causing some Taliban fighters to scatter. To throw those guys up there without trying to first eliminate [Taliban fighters] from the air wasnt the proper way to address the situation, Murdock says. We werent sitting on our hands. For the soldiers waiting at Nevada and at Wright waiting to get called up, the minutes and seconds felt like hoursand the hours stretched too long. Soldiers at Outpost Nevada communicated through an internal radio frequency with their platoon sergeant, who came up with unrealistic ways to try to help, like climbing the mountain to the outpost, one soldier says. The platoon sergeant was the kind of person who would poke the devil, just to see how hed react, the soldier says. Decades before, the Taliban overran Russian soldiers who patrolled the same outpost. Aware of this, the soldiers trapped at Nevada with little ammunition began to make their peace. OBoyle, at the base camp waiting to serve on the quick reaction force, called his mother. I remember him calling me and being angry about it, Maureen OBoyle says. He said, The commander wont let us go. Stewart, who was at Camp Phoenix in Kabul, says he called the Navy commander as the battle raged at Nevada: Stewart was headed to the base camp in Kunar, he told him, to give the Navy commander a coin for taking care of our guys, Stewart says, adding that he relayed the message on advice from his own leadership. Because Stewart couldnt order the commander to act, he needed a tactful way to get him to think about the consequences of inaction. He heard silence on the other end of the line. Minutes after he hung up the phone, Stewart learned the soldiers at the base camp were greenlighted to commandeer a helicopter of supplies and soldiers to deliver to Outpost Nevada. When youre up on a mountain like that and you think youve got no ammo coming in Stewart pauses. You spend all these years in the military and theres one commonality: You never, ever leave your guys hanging, everno matter what. And I saw too much of that over there. My Marriage Was Falling Apart As soldiers found their resiliencetheir ability to stay strong and focused and recover quicklytested on the battlefield, some also faced challenges back home. But it wasnt just the lower-enlisted or midcareer soldiers who struggled. Fewer than six months into the deployment, Pitts asked to return home to spend some time with his wife and two young children. I normally wouldve been the last to take leave, but I asked if I could go home to see what we could do, Pitts says. My marriage was falling apart. Going home did not offer the resolution he expected. Pitts returned to Afghanistan detached from the realities of his environment and consumed by events back in the States that he couldnt control from Camp Phoenix. When the opportunity came to be among the first groups to leave Afghanistan in December 2011, he took it. It did feel like I was quitting, Pitts says. My career had never really taken that turn. I was confronting it for the first time. The 2011 deployment was his third since 9/11. But this one marked the end of both his marriage and military career. Logo sign is hung at the Military Family Program Office in the foyer of the Wellesley Armory. (Kevin Nunes/Massachusetts National Guard) Other soldiers also faced abrupt and unforeseen exits. This was the first deployment for Jacob Stiles, 21, a specialist in Delta Company. When he returned to Massachusetts for his two-week R&Rrest and relaxationin December 2011, he fully expected to return to Afghanistan, to the unit. But the teams decided to send some service members home early, says Murdock, the reconstruction team commander. They asked for volunteersand they decided not to bring back the soldiers who were home on leave. Stiles belongings and equipment remained in Afghanistan, as did his friends. Stiles felt the separation. For Stiles, I knew that we shouldve looked at, OK, were leaving these guys home. How does this affect them, whats the next step for them? Murdock says. I didnt ask those questions. I shouldve gotten ahold of [Tom] Stewart and said, OK, what are we doing for these guys? Murdock says. Were either sending them back early or were not having them come back. Do they have the resources? When do their checks stop? Are they going to be OK? Are they going to have jobs? One morning at Camp Wright, Murdock stepped outside and into a pile of shit on his doormat. He knew someone from Deltas second platoon had left the pile of human feces: an end-of-tour message, with only weeks remaining in their deployment. Murdock suspected OBoyle might have been behind a team effort, but he couldnt know for sure. On the day the platoon left Kunar, Murdock hugged each soldier and shook his handeven the ones he suspected of leaving shit outside his door. Every hand. Except OBoyles. I had much more respect for OBoyle, he says. Maybe my disappointment was greater with him. More than a decade later, Murdock describes processing the deployment with the 182nd as a slow burn. He grapples with survivors guiltfor the servicemembers and Afghans killed who had worked with the reconstruction team, and for those in Deltas second platoon who died by suicide at home. He replays so many instances in his mind; among them, he wonders if the decision not to bring those on leave back to Afghanistan denied them the support some soldierslike Stilesneeded after their experiences in theater. As their [commanding officer], I take full responsibility for every one of those guys, Murdock says. The Day It Ends Is The Day Youre Forgotten In February 2012, a week before the unit left for home, violent protests erupted after Afghans working at Bagram Air Base found NATO forces had improperly burned copies of the Quran. U.S. troops suspected prisoners had written notes to each other in library books, including the Qurans, which an interpreter mistook for extremist literature. Thousands of angry demonstrators enveloped Camp Phoenix, burning tires, hurling rocks, and firing shots into the air. Some tried to push through the gates. At one point, a 182nd soldier fatally shot a protester who had approached a convoy as it left Camp Phoenix. That incident led to an internal investigation that briefly seeped into the units return home. But they faced much greater difficulties as they worked to reintegrate. The soldiers themselves often didnt realize how rough the transition would be: They dreamed of home-cooked meals, their families, a Dunkin coffee run, and clothes that didnt smell like dust. Despite a return to loved onesand even with the Guards reintegration check-inssomething lacked after the deployment, many soldiers with the 182nd told The War Horse. We create this family aspect where we all rely on one another, were all so close, says a soldier who still serves in the military. And then when we come back, it dissolves. Its gone. The day it ends is the day youre forgotten. Soldiers of the 33rd Infantry Brigade Combat Team patrol near Camp Phoenix, Kabul, Afghanistan. (U.S. Army/Sgt. James Sims) So it was for Deltas Kunar platoon, Sgt. 1st Class Lobo says, the Mad Dogs. Some members of the platoon had temporarily lived together in Massachusetts as they prepared to deploy. In theater, DeLano, a skilled carpenter, built walls around Outpost Nevada to keep them safe. When shrapnel hit Lobo while the platoon was on patrol, DeLano took over as gunner. It was that intensity for nine months, and then all of a sudden, we get back and are told, Thank you, you can go home now, Lobo says. It sent some of the guys into a deep, deep depression. And, in a manner thats often much greater than for active-duty troops, Guard members day-to-day lives change in every way after a 12-month deployment. Some service members return without a full-time job in either the Guard or civilian sector. Some dont return to the unit they deployed with. Some may never see those they deployed with again, and if they do, its back to one weekend a month, rather than everyday interactions. Retired Brig. Gen. Jack Hammond, who oversaw the 181st and 182nds Afghanistan deployment as brigade commander of the 26th Yankee Division, anticipated the mental health risk and resource gap returning Guard members would face. It got to the point where we tried to do some things while we were still in Afghanistan to help mitigate that a bit, Hammond says. He and Command Sgt. Maj. William Davidson visited platoons in the 181st while still in theater to listen to their soldiers raw accounts of their deployment experiences. I wasnt able to do that with the 182nd, Hammond says, because he returned home while the 182nd was still deployed. We were trying to get that moving; I just couldnt get it off the ground with the 182. I think it might have been helpful because we havent seen that same thing with the 181. Despite identical missions and reportedly similar challenges in theater, the 182nd experienced twice as many suicides within the battalions first year home, and higher numbers overall to date, compared to the 181st. There Was No Care in Place to Support Them Months after his return, DeLano found himself in the throes of a deployment hangover. The little lies he had told his whole life grew in frequency and enormity, his sister, Tauna Holland, says. I think his military experience didnt help the issues he already had prior to enlisting, she says. As with some others in his unit, the deployment seemed to exacerbate them. Little lies, she says. It sounded familiar to me, from when DeLano had stayed with us. Some fibs seemed so small I forget the exact instances, but I remember feeling slighted at the time. Once, before DeLano enlisted, my husband and I came home to find our motorcycle gone. A few hours later, DeLano pulled up to the house on the bike. He needed a fast way to get to his mom, who was in the hospital, he told us. Later we learned that wasnt true, but by then it wasnt worth the talk. One time he mentioned he could trace his lineage back to former President Franklin Delano Roosevelt. He may have been right, and I took him at his word. Whats it worth now to get at that truth? DeLano wasnt alone in facing old habits. Some Guard members had to deal with what they tried to escape when they joined the military in the first place. We recruit a lot of these guys who are looking for a better life, to feel good about themselves, to escape what theyre leaving behind, to be better, to be men, to be proudand all of a sudden, they go on something so emotional, like a deployment, one soldier tells The War Horse. Then they have to come back, and then theyre instantly hanging on their couch again with the same group they tried to leave behind and be better thanwithout a job, necessarily. U.S. Air Force Maj. Tyler Kaido holds up a sign Sept. 16, 2022, in support of We Care Day and National Suicide Prevention and Awareness month, at Joint Base San Antonio-Randolph, Texas. (U.S. Air Force photo by Sarayuth Pinthong) Many soldiers who join the Guard bring with them social attachments theyve already made in life through family and friends. But those who feel detached, either from the unit bonds they made or the civilian life theyre returning to, vacillate in an anxious state of in-between as they figure out where they belong. No one gets it, the soldier says. Youre sitting there just like you were a year and a half ago. Nothings really changed, but now you have perceived demons. Three months after the 182nd returned from deployment, some, like DeLano, who returned to drill with the battalion did not see many of the same people they deployed with. The 182nd had a new commander. Soldiers had been promoted and sent to other units. The squads, platoons, and companies looked and felt nothing like they had during the transformative year they had spent together, soldiers say. For active-duty troops, the day-to-day still includes people with similar experiencespeople who have deployed and understand, as opposed to facing both the civilian job and the changed unit. DeLano went on the job hunt. A former coworker set him up with a job interview with a civilian security contracting company. He didnt show up to the interview. He didnt get the job. This Is a Brain Thing During the first few weeks home, Stewart could separate life at home from his year in Afghanistan. His worlds collided the night he dreamed he was trying to protect his wife and mother, but he was back in Afghanistan. I had that dream, and I realized, This is a brain thing, Stewart says. I cant control this whole process, no matter how strong, tough, capable I think I am. Theres an automatic, natural thing thats about to happen here, he says. After that, Stewarts anger and avoidance made him unrecognizable to his family, he says. The outbursts didnt make sense to him, either. His thoughts paralyzed him. His vision would narrow. Hed come back to the present moment in puddles of sweat. One afternoon, he spent what felt like hours picking weeds alone outside his house just to escape the good friends his wife had invited over. Meanwhile, DeLano hinted at efforts to reintegrate. At one point, he wrote a petition as a concerned resident to the Massachusetts Department of Public Health asking them not to increase the licensing fee on the states vending machines. This proposed increase is exorbitant, his signed letter reads. It could result in some job losses and surely will affect the prices of your vending favorites. But that summer, he told Holland, his sister, he would bake a cake for her nursing school graduation party. Then he didnt show. He got into a crash, he told his sister, and he sent his family pictures of a totaled car. He wore a bandage on one of his arms. Weeks later, alarmed by what she and other family members saw during a visit to his apartmentguns, booze, pillsHolland says she convinced him to check into a VA clinic to receive emergency care. When a clinician removed the bandage he wore from the car crash, family members saw no cuts or bruises. No wound, no scar. Too Injured to Get Care A service members expectations of their combat experience may also play a role in how well they reintegrate. One still-serving soldier says he and others felt more vulnerable because their deployment was much different from what they anticipated. Theres so much morale that were supposed to create, and this esprit de corps and pride that were building, and confidence in these guys, and then, when it doesnt meet their expectation, it hurts their feelings a little bit, he says. Some people have an expectation of what combat is going to look like and what it means for them. When you dont get that mission, and when it doesnt look like what you have in your head, you struggle, he says. The Guards responsibilities have not only expanded in perpetual fighting of foreign wars, but its members have also been called on more frequently to handle all sorts of domestic responseseverything from natural and manmade disasters and civil unrest to public health emergency responses and worker shortagesin recent years, all simultaneously. Guard members have to meet the same requirements as service members in the active Army, but in one-fifth of the structured training time. Given the limited time to fulfill so many requirements, mandatory training in resilience and suicide prevention has been likened to learning how to shoot a weapon by sitting through a PowerPoint presentation. They throw the kitchen sink at themthere are so many mandatory requirements, Hammond says. Its just one more requirement. But they also want to get to training infantry soldiers how to be infantry soldiers, he says. Airman writes his reason for living during a Suicide Prevention Month event Sept. 8, 2021, from an undisclosed location somewhere in Southwest Asia. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Karla Parra) The Guard also endures a stark contrast in available medical services compared to their active counterparts. Unlike the active component, health records of Guard members are not fully captured by military data systems because of their intermittent service. For complex care, including mental health, the Guard, less funded and with fewer resources than the active component, is more likely to refer service members to private clinics that may not tailor care for veteran-specific trauma, Hammond says. Weve heard that from far too many veterans that have come to us that have suffered for years because they did try and get help, the [clinician] was ill equipped for the task, says Hammond, who became the executive director of the Massachusetts-based veterans clinical program, Home Base, which provides care for veterans and their families, after he returned home. And then they thought they were broken. They thought they were too injured to get care and they just had to suck it up and live with that. That scenario was more likely to play out among service members in the active Army before 9/11, but it is growing more common in the Guard, Hammond says. When you have sustained combat over 20 years, and you have the emergence of unanticipated mental health and brain injuries, which are some of the most complicated injuries you can deal with, how do you suddenly grow those resources? he says. When Things Got Hard Some struggled even as they tried to guide others through reintegration. After the 2011 deployment, OBoyle, a town firefighter, helped many other soldiers who contemplated taking their own lives. Many confided in him about their struggles. But at the time, OBoyle also struggled to remain resilient himself, though many of his friends and fellow soldiers, especially those who had leaned on him, couldnt see it. Every time I saw him at drill, he was joking around, laughing, says Simpson, Delta Companys former commander. That was just part of who he was, Maureen OBoyle says. Kevin would introduce levity when things got hard, she says. OBoyle visited VA once after his first deployment in 2003, but didnt follow up after his provider recommended medication. The post-combat stress from his first deployment likely worsened during his second, his mother says. The scene as he arrived at Kunar province also stuck with him. He couldnt get the faces of the wounded and dead soldiers out of his mind. While there, he watched as a helicopter blade struck and killed his comradea medic who had tried to evacuate an injured soldier. It stayed with OBoyle. He also faced memories from his first deployment to Afghanistan a decade before going over with the 182nd. But he didnt speak about what he saw to familyit was something service members only discuss among themselves, Maureen OBoyle says. She recalled her sons return from his 2011 deployment as too sudden, too extreme. He, like others in the unit, seemed to be on constant alert, and he had bursts of anger. Knowing my child, this young man, as I did, I felt it best to give him some space, that hell come around, she says. But instead, she says, he shut down. By 2012, the militarys suicide rate had surpassed its combat death rate349 service members killed themselves, while 295 died in Afghanistanand the military and veterans communities were on edge. The surge came after a spike in 2009, followed by Congressional hearings and programs from both VA and the Defense Department designed to lower the suicide rate. Stewart, who by then had left command and become the Guards assistant chief of staff, had seen the rates, but hed also seen the reports about his soldiers as they returned home. About a year after they got back, he saw yet another report of a 182nd soldier with a mental health crisis appear in his inbox. He drove to the clinic nearly an hour away. Im here to see Chris DeLano, Stewart told one of the clinicians. Sorry, Chris doesnt want to see anybody, the clinician said. Well, youre going to have to tell him he doesnt have a choice, because Im his battalion commander, Stewart says he replied. Stewart knew that wasnt true anymore, and his statement didnt hold weight at VA, but the clinician told him to wait while he returned to consult DeLano. He returned soon after. Follow me, the clinician told Stewart. Stewart followed the clinician to the cafeteria where he saw DeLano seated at an indoor picnic table. You dont have to say a word to me, Stewart says he told DeLano. But I came here to tell you a couple things: Number one, youre not any different than the rest of us because we are all going through what you are going through right now. And number two, youre the smart one because youre here at the VA, and were not, Stewart says. Thats all Im going to tell you. Stewart knew more than he said. Events from the deployment also weighed heavily on his mind. OBoyle also visited DeLano, but as he did, he continued to hide his own unraveling. I look back and the signs were there, I just didnt see them, Maureen OBoyle says. And I didnt hear him the way I needed to hear him. OBoyle had been adopted into his family as an infant, and his mother says his increased introspection about who he was kept him focused on his goals and wanting to achieve more in his life. He wanted to get married; he wanted to go to Ranger school. He was content in so many ways, she says. At the same time, he couldnt seem to find a place to settle. He was always searching. OBoyle gave his guns away to a fellow soldier and firefighter after he returned home. He mustve been afraid that hed use them, she says. He gave more of his money to the Wounded Warrior Project. He also grew isolated from his family. Maureen OBoyle recalls speaking to him regularly by phone, but he wouldnt allow her to see him for several months, she says. There was a pride factor there, she says. He was dealing with his own frustration that he couldnt get a handle on it. OBoyle, 31, killed himself on Aug. 22, 2013. He was the first one [in Delta company], Simpson says. That was a tough one. His was the first funeral for the battalion after they got back, but it wasnt their first suicide death. Another 182nd soldier had died by suicide just days before OBoyle. Their funerals were held a day apart. Within the year, two more soldiers within Delta company took their own livesincluding Jacob Stiles, the soldier who had come home on leave only to find he wouldnt return to Afghanistan. More than a year after her sons death, Maureen OBoyle stood in the bridal party for DeLanos wedding. It was Kevin OBoyle who had introduced DeLano to the woman he would marry. Maureen offered one of her sons dog tags as a something borrowed, but she would never get it back. Three service members in the Massachusetts Army National Guard died by suicide while this story was written. This War Horse investigation was reported by Lara Salahi as part of a Rosalynn Carter Fellowship for Mental Health Journalism. It was edited by Kelly Kennedy, fact-checked by Ben Kalin, and copy-edited by Mitchell Hansen-Dewar. Headlines are by Abbie Bennett. Maria Wilson contributed to this report. The Chinese "weather balloon" that Beijing claims was "blown off course" over one of the United States' most important intercontinental ballistic missile sites isn't the first time what would seem to be a secret spy mission went off script. It's also not the first time a government had to find an explanation for one of those adventures. China is probably just taking a page out of the U.S. government 1960s-era cover-up playbook that we'll call: The ol' "Weather Balloon Dodge." It's a classic for a reason. According to Project Blue Book, the U.S. Air Force's review of Unidentified Flying Object (UFO) reports between 1952 and 1969, most UFO sightings are either astronomical phenomena, satellites, aircraft or balloons. But Blue Book was not entirely truthful about its answers, says The New York Times. And while China's balloon is definitely a balloon -- there's no doubt about that -- there were times where the "balloon" in question was definitely an aircraft. 1. U-2 Dragon Lady The U-2 Dragon Lady took its first flight with the CIA and the U.S. Air Force in 1955, the result of years of work developing an aircraft that could not only fly out of reach of the Soviet Union's anti-air defenses, but also most of its interceptor aircraft. For nearly a decade, the U-2's ceiling of more than 70,000 feet was out of range of Soviet radar. Pictured: A weather balloon. (U.S. Air Force) That doesn't mean it wasn't entirely invisible from the ground. The scope of Project Blue Book would include the development timeline of the U-2, but the existence of the spy plane wasn't fully revealed until May 1960 when pilot Francis Gary Powers was shot down during an overflight of the Soviet Union. 2. SR-71 Blackbird If high altitude wasn't enough to keep the Soviets from shooting down top-secret spy aircraft, the Air Force, CIA and Lockheed's Advanced Development Program (also known as Skunk Works) reasoned that extremely high speed should do the trick. The SR-71 was designed to fly at a ceiling of 85,000 feet at Mach 3.3. If a surface-to-air missile happened to track it, the plane would simply outrun the missile. Pictured: A weather balloon. (U.S. Air Force) From 1957, Lockheed developed a series of airframes that would eventually culminate in a titanium aircraft (with titanium deceptively acquired from the USSR) that would meet all its needs. The CIA says the Air Force knew that many of the UFO reports from its development were actually SR-71 test flights. President Lyndon B. Johnson declassified the plane as a campaign strategy during the 1964 presidential election. 3. Actual Balloons. No Joke. There's a reason the Department of Defense believes China's weather balloon is actually a reconnaissance balloon: The DoD is developing reconnaissance balloons of its own. The Pentagon plans to spend $27.1 million in fiscal year 2023 on balloon-related projects to get its own recon balloons into the stratosphere. Pictured: A weather balloon. (Lockheed) It may seem like an idea from the 1960s, but high-altitude balloons 60,000-90,000 feet above the Earth's surface, equipped with machine learning algorithms and solar panels, are a cheap, effective way to watch hypersonic missile testing from America's geopolitical rivals. They can also loiter for much, much longer than any drone. If any of the massive balloons get forced down, they'd just be another weather balloon, which the National Weather Service still uses. Please do not try to shoot down an NWS weather balloon. -- Blake Stilwell can be reached at blake.stilwell@military.com. He can also be found on Twitter @blakestilwell or on Facebook. Want to Learn More About Military Life? Whether you're thinking of joining the military, looking for post-military careers or keeping up with military life and benefits, Military.com has you covered. Subscribe to Military.com to have military news, updates and resources delivered directly to your inbox. Chris Weber opened BlueMore Roasters in an effort to bring something new and different to the small town where he grew up. After he graduated from high school and spent a few years in college he decided he wanted more. I just wanted to see what else what else was out there, he said. He worked in retail in Omaha for a while and was then transferred to New Mexico. Weber said he moved around for the last 15-20 years. I wasnt around for my nephews when they were younger. I wanted to be around family. He returned to Wymore in late 2018 from the Portland where he had worked in a coffee shop. In the Pacific Northwest he learned how different coffee can be from what he grew up knowing. I found out I really enjoyed all of the different coffees that were available. Seattle has coffee shops on every corner. Weber said he had an uncle that roasted his own coffee for many years, and it was fun trying his new coffees. His uncle had inquired about commercial roasters and considered purchasing a machine, but instead retired and encouraged Weber to start a business. He researched different types and styles before he bought a San Franciscan Roaster in May 2019 which looks like the front of a locomotive train. I wanted to open a roasting room with a window where people could watch, but I didnt want to invest a lot of money," he said. "So, I set it up in my garage and its been great, but Im already running out of space. Covid changed a five-year plan to going on a ten-year plan, but I still want to bring the experience to this area. Its just something different. Weber said he owns a property near the old BlueMore Hotel in Blue Springs and anticipates opening a roasting room there eventually. He said he enjoys providing education on coffee. Coffee beans are grown around the equator and the type of bean changes depending on the different soils and regions. The elevation the bean was grown at changes the flavor. I love the idea of roasting coffee because its a perfect combination of art and science," he said. The process of roasting the bean with changes in temperature and time will affect the flavor. I work with the beans and the roast level to find its best flavor profile without adding any flavorings to them. I want the bean to speak for itself. Weber said he can roast up to six pounds of beans which only requires less than 15 minutes of actual roasting time. The preparation and different steps in the process requires more time. He said he only grinds the beans when the customer wants it but does not grind everything. Grinding breaks down faster than whole beans. You can have a fresher, better tasting coffee if you grind your beans just before you brew it every day. Weber said his favorite coffee was a medium roast Guatemala. He noted that BlueMore Roasters coffee was in a few local stores, but his focus has been on keeping the product fresh. Weber provides free delivery within 60 miles to grow his business. He said he worked with some cold brews and offers that at local Farmers Markets. Im trying to make connections at different locations," He said. I just wanted to offer a business in my hometown. I see all of these small towns withering away and that cant happen. We need smaller communities and they need to not go into the night. The name of the business - BlueMore Roasters - is a nod to Blue Springs and Wymore where he grew up. More information can be found on the Facebook page. Yuli Gurriel is one of the more accomplished free agent hitters still available, though hes seeking a bounceback opportunity after a rough 2022 campaign. It seemed things were moving towards a resolution a couple weeks ago when reports suggested his camp was making progress in talks with the Marlins. However, Miami eventually pulled back that pursuit. That has left the 38-year-old without a publicly defined market. The only other teams tied to Gurriel this offseason are the Twins and the incumbent Astros, with whom the Cuban infielder spent his first seven big league seasons. Jon Heyman of the New York Post wrote yesterday Gurriel had sought a guarantee in the $3MM range at one point this offseason. Whether thats still his goal is unclear, though the Post reports he declined multiple contract offers that were apparently below his asking price. Heyman adds Houston manager Dusty Baker would like for Gurriel to return, though its not clear if theres a fit on the roster given the teams early-offseason pickup of Jose Abreu. Houston has Yordan Alvarez and Michael Brantley to split time between designated hitter and left field. Any path to playing time on the Astros roster would be as a right-handed bench bat. Houston already has a pair of right-handed infielders Mauricio Dubon and David Hensley who could crack the roster while offering more defensive flexibility. Gurriel has some previous MLB experience at second and third base but has played almost exclusively first base since the start of the 2020 campaign. Thats at least in part because Houston has Jose Altuve and Alex Bregman entrenched at those other infield spots. Gurriel garnered solid marks from public defensive metrics for his intermittent third base work between 2016-19 and was a Gold Glove winning first baseman as recently as 2021. His defensive marks at first base cratered last season, though, which could give teams pause about his ability to handle any more demanding positions as he enters his age-39 season. His offense is something of a question mark as well. Gurriel is coming off a .242/.288/.360 line with just eight home runs through 584 regular season plate appearances. He finished the year with an excellent 12-game playoff run (.347/.360/.490) before a World Series-ending MCL sprain in his right knee. On the one hand, it was Gurriels second well below-average offensive showing in the past three years, as he managed just a .232/.274/.384 showing during the shortened 2020 schedule. Yet his intervening season was brilliant, as he posted a .319/.383/.462 mark in 143 games in 2021, securing an American League batting title. Gurriel still has excellent bat-to-ball skills. Last years 12.5% strikeout rate was a personal high but checked in roughly ten percentage points below the league average. Even with a below-average slash line, he collected 40 doubles for the third time in his career. Still, the 2022 season also represented the first time he failed to reach double-digit homers in a full season, and his on-base percentage was fifth-lowest among 36 first basemen with 400+ plate appearances. There are a few remaining rebound targets available at the position in free agency. Longtime Twin slugger Miguel Sano will hold a showcase for scouts next week, while 2020 home run leader Luke Voit is unsigned after being non-tendered by the Nationals. Gurriel brings a far different approach than those high-strikeout sluggers, though Sano and Voit are far younger. The Mariners announced that reliever J.B. Bukauskas has gone unclaimed on waivers. Hes been sent outright to Triple-A Tacoma and will be in big league camp as a non-roster Spring Training invitee. Bukauskas didnt have a particularly long stay on the Seattle 40-man roster. Claimed off waivers from the Diamondbacks on January 17, he lost his spot earlier this week when the Ms grabbed Tayler Saucedo from the Mets. Seattle quickly ran Bukauskas through waivers and will now be able to retain a former first-round draftee and highly-regarded prospect without allocating a 40-man spot. The 26-year-old was the 15th overall pick in the 2017 draft by the Astros. Houston flipped the UNC product to Arizona two summers later as part of a four-player package for Zack Greinke. A starter early in his minor league days, Bukauskas has come with questions about his ability to hold up in a rotation because of inconsistent command dating back to college. Those concerns have borne out over the past two seasons, as the Snakes moved him to relief after adding him to the roster over the 2020-21 offseason. Bukauskas made his MLB debut in April 21, eventually getting into 21 contests. He was hit hard for 19 runs through his first 17 1/3 big league innings despite averaging 94.5 MPH on his fastball and generating plenty of whiffs on his mid-80s slider. An elbow strain cost him a chunk of that season, and a lat injury suffered in Spring Training sidelined him for the first half of last year. While he didnt return to the mound until July, Bukauskas closed out the 2022 season with a nice run at Triple-A Reno. Pitching in an extraordinarily hitter-friendly park, he posted a 2.66 ERA with a solid 23.8% strikeout percentage and an excellent 5% walk rate. Nevertheless, he never got another MLB opportunity in a below-average Arizona bullpen and has found himself squeezed off two clubs rosters in a matter of weeks. Bukauskas will try to pitch his way back onto the radar in spring camp and, if necessary, with Tacoma to open next season. The Ms already have a strong bullpen, with Andres Munoz, Paul Sewald, Diego Castillo, Matt Brash, Trevor Gott and likely Penn Murfee penciled into jobs. Matt Festa is out of minor league option years and has a strong case to hold onto a roster spot, while whomever of Marco Gonzales and Chris Flexen doesnt win the #5 starter role could be in the bullpen. The Ms would also have to carry Rule 5 draftee Chris Clarke on the active roster or waive him and, if he clears, send him back to the Cubs. Bukauskas joins Taylor Williams, Casey Sadler, Riley OBrien and Kyle Tyler among the non-roster depth options in the organization. Ghanaian blogger, Boga Ali Hashim has chided renowned broadcaster Gilbert Abeiku Aggrey Santana widely known as Abeiku Santana for allegedly blocking female media personality Deloris Frimpong Manso otherwise known as Delay on Twitter. This action by the drive-time host at OkayFM, according to Boga Ali Hashim is puerile. In a tweet, he wrote, "Mr. Santana is on a blocking spree ooo #beware, I just learned he's blocked @delayghana too. smh...a troll master who does not want to be trolled #karma but on a real, for him to be blocking his colleagues sake of social media trolling is childish." he should know better, I guess." This comes after Delay made a post on her Twitter handle, sharing a screenshot photo that suggested she has been blocked by Abeiku Santana. She captioned "But I havent done anything oo." Background In a video which has surfaced online and received mixed reactions, Abeiku Santana was subtly sacked as Despite and his millionaire friends wanted to take a group picture. This happened after Abeiku Santana forcefully shook Despites hands and rained all kinds of accolades on him but after that, he sensed he wasnt needed there hence he quickly left without a trace. Prior to this humiliation, Abeiku had attempted to shake Despite after meeting him earlier in the morning but was snubbed. He later spent all his time leading a chorus of happy birthdays for Despite but no one else seemed interested. A series of political manoeuvres by Tanzania President Samia Suluhu Hassan have set the east African country on an unfamiliar, yet hopeful, political path. Since her elevation to the presidency two years ago following the death of John Pombe Magufuli, the new president has struck a reformist political tone and led reconciliation with a previously marginalised opposition. None of this would have been possible under Magufuli. Magufuli not only stifled the opposition, but also went as far as threatening to annihilate it. Hassan has made several reforms, including reconciliation talks between the government and the opposition. Her government also lifted the ban on newspapers . Hassan has made a significant break from her predecessor. There was little civic and political space under the late president. There was violent crackdown on the opposition and the media. Hassan has placed strong emphasis on reconciliation, resilience, reform and rebuilding . She has reversed most of her predecessor's retrogressive policies. For example, she has ended the ban on pregnant schoolgirls in classrooms. She has also opened up the country to foreign investments. Her most recent initiative was to lift the ban on political rallies and activities. Magufuli banned opposition political rallies and activities in 2016. The unconstitutional move came at a time when the main opposition party Chama Cha Demokrasia na Maendeleo (Chadema) was planning nationwide rallies to protest Magufuli's repressive and authoritarian rule. A year ago, Hassan met exiled opposition figure Tundu Lissu in Brussels, and he has returned home. She went on to play a role in the release of Chadema chairman Freeman Mbowe, who had been in prison for 18 months facing terrorism charges. Alongside the reforms, Hassan used her first full year in office to consolidate her political base. She seems to be carefully strategising her reforms with the 2025 elections in mind. All her actions to remake Tanzania's political landscape need to be seen in the light of those elections . She will go into the election as a clear favourite. But the reforms are a double-edged sword for the president. They have endeared her to many, but also breathed new life into the opposition. Hassan's power game Hassan moved quickly to consolidate her base after the death of Magufuli in 2021. On the anniversary of her ascent to the top office, she spoke about the difficulties she had endured during the transition. She observed that her rivals had already begun plotting for the 2025 elections. To strengthen her base, she brought back into the fold people who had been sidelined by Magufuli. One was former president Jakaya Kikwete. She also made several changes in her cabinet and the governing structures. Another part of her 2025 game plan has been the overtures she's made to the opposition. Having served as Magufuli's vice-president, she understands the intricate political games needed to win an election. Reform agenda In December 2021, Hassan set up a taskforce on political reform and democracy. It met with political stakeholders and drew up a set of key policy proposals: political parties should be allowed to conduct public rallies and hold internal meetings an independent electoral body, free from interference from the executive presidential election results should be subject to challenges in court, as the African Court on Human and People's Rights ruled in July 2020 the Political Parties Act should be reformed to allow more political participation for women and special groups, such as persons with disabilities. Divisions over the constitution The next hurdle for Hassan is addressing discontent over constitutional reform and policy priorities. Her recent taskforce recommended completing the stalled constitution review process initiated eight years ago. After the 2014 review, a proposed constitution was passed, awaiting referendum. Opposition politicians are opposed to the content of the proposed constitution. They are pushing for an earlier draft constitution spearheaded by constitutional reformist judge Joseph Warioba, terming it the people's constitution. The ACT-Wazalendo party is also pushing for the creation of an independent electoral commission before a new constitution. Chadema continues to push for a new constitution as the panacea for Tanzania's development. Hassan has demonstrated political skill and tact well beyond her two years' experience as the country's leader. Her stand on a new constitution remains tepid. She previously stated that her priority was the economy and the constitution would come later. But it would not be surprising to see her meet the opposition halfway on their demands for a new constitution. Nicodemus Minde does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment. By Nicodemus Minde, Adjunct Lecturer, United States International University - Africa, United States International University The body of Burkina Faso's revered revolutionary leader Thomas Sankara is to be buried alongside 12 comrades at the spot where in 1987 they were assassinated, the country's ruling junta said on Friday. The ceremony will take place "in February" at the site of a memorial that already marks the location, the government's spokesman, Communications Minister Jean-Emmanuel Ouedraogo, said in a statement, without giving a date. Sankara came to power in August 1983 as an army captain aged just 33. Nicknamed Africa's Che Guevara, he was a fiery Marxist-Leninist who blasted the West for neo-colonialism and hypocrisy. He changed the country's name from the colonial-era Upper Volta to Burkina Faso -- "the land of honest men" -- and pushed through a range of reforms, including promoting vaccination and banning female genital mutilation. Sankara was idolised by supporters of pan-Africanism and egalitarianism, but his tenure was short-lived. He and a dozen other leaders were gunned down by a hit squad at a meeting of the ruling National Revolutionary Council in the capital Ouagadougou on October 15, 1987. The killings took place on the same day that Sankara's comrade-in-arms, Blaise Compaore, seized power. He went on to rule for 27 years, during which Sankara's death was a strict taboo. He was ousted by public protests and fled to Ivory Coast. After Compaore's downfall, the 13 bodies were exhumed from a cemetery on the outskirts of the city for an investigation. It led to a lengthy trial that culminated in April 2022 in life terms in absentia for Compaore and the suspected hit squad leader, and a similar term for a detained general who had been army commander at the time. In the light of this trial, the 13 should be buried "honourably," Friday's statement said. Burkina Faso, a landlocked state in the heart of West Africa's Sahel, is battling a seven-year-old jihadist insurgency that has claimed thousands of lives and driven more than two million people from their homes. Anger within the military at failures to stem the bloodshed helped spark two coups last year. 03.02.2023 LISTEN Some coconut sellers in Tema have called on the youth especially the unemployed graduates not to depend on white collar jobs but rather engage in the informal sector entrepreneurship, and artisan business as it is productive. The Coconut sellers encouraged the youth to consider the global economic meltdown and take immediate steps to venture into other areas of informal business which is now becoming the backbone of the countrys economy. Mr. Ebenezer Arthur, a coconut seller at Tema Community one told newsmen in an interview that for the past seven years, he had been engaged coconut business and as a result moved from the Central Region to the Greater Accra Region. He said through the business, he's been able to cater to the needs of his family and some personal needs, the business is lucrative, and I will encourage the unemployed youth to consider coconut business. Mr. Arthur added the business generates at least GHC400.00 to GHC500.00 daily out of which he had invested in other businesses to earn more to sustain the future, he engages in the fried rice business every evening. He mentioned that although people look down on such businesses, they made a lot from it and called on the youth to venture into such businesses and not wait for the government's employment opportunities. Mr. Kwasi Nyarkor, also a coconut seller in Tema who had been in the business for over 30 years said out of that business he was taking care of his six children at school. He mentioned that during 2020 when COVID-19 was at its peak, sales tripled which enabled those who were serious about the work to save a lot. He urged the youth, especially the unemployed educated graduates, to take advantage of some of these businesses and not be idle at home waiting for white-collar jobs. He added that gone were days when opportunities were available even while in school noting that, they must look at the dynamics and know how to take their steps. Mr. Michael Yankee, a seller at Michel Camp said he prefers selling coconut to any corporate job because of the benefits attached to it. He said he started the business after completing Senior High School and said although the business was stressful, he would encourage the youth to venture into the business as nothing comes easy. -CDA Consult II Contributor 04.02.2023 LISTEN A security analyst, Colonel Festus Aboagye (Rtd), has rebuked the Ghana Armed Forces for using force during recent disturbances at Bawku. The military has been accused of killing ten civilians to which the Ghana Armed Forces denied and explained that its personnel only moved to the area to neutralise some residents who were firing sporadically. GAF explained that personnel from the Force conducted cordon and search operations together with Bawku Police at Pateleme General Area to disarm residents. Colonel Aboagye intimated that the outcome of the supposed cordon and search activity has defeated the explanations given by the military in the area because the exercise didnt yield any seizure of the weapons for which the exercise was conducted. When you organize a cordon and search operation, it is based on an item of intelligence and there must be evidence to justify the operation. I have had occasions to link this happening in Bawku to Ayawaso West Wuogon that if indeed there were armed elements with military-grade weapons and therefore the military cordoned and searched the area, the military must have seized weapons and they must present those weapons and it is not sufficient to just issue a statement that we engaged people that were sporadically firing their weapons. Any activity that the military conducts must have at least two dimensions; it must have the technical military dimension and information and you can reinforce your information activity by presenting the evidence so at the end of cordon and search operation, weapons should have been seized and presented for all to see, Col Aboagye told Selorm Adonoo on Eyewitness News. By Citi Newsroom Pope Francis on Saturday will meet victims of South Sudan's civil war, a day after delivering an impassioned appeal for the country's leaders to recommit to peace for the sake of their long-suffering people. Francis is making the first papal visit to South Sudan since it gained independence from Sudan in 2011 and plunged into a brutal ethnic conflict that left the young nation divided and traumatised. Some 380,000 people died in five years of bloodshed before the civil war formally ended in 2018, with a ceasefire between warring leaders who remain in power today. But the country remains fragile and violent and Francis, who tried to broker peace between the rival parties, is visiting South Sudan as it lurches from one crisis to the next. Crowds turned out to greet Pope Francis, making the first papal visit to South Sudan since its independence in 2011. By Simon MAINA (AFP) On Saturday, the 86-year-old Argentine will address a group of South Sudanese living in a camp outside Juba who were forced to flee ethnic violence during the war years. They will be brought to an audience in the capital city with Francis, who has made the defence of migrants and those on the margins a pillar of his papacy. Despite a peace deal technically ending the war, conflict still drives people from their homes, and there are some 2.2 million internally displaced across South Sudan, according to UN data from December. On Saturday evening, Francis will hold a joint prayer with the Archbishop of Canterbury and the Moderator of the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland, who are joining him in the country. He will also meet South Sudan's religious leaders, who work with the poor and marginalised and are deeply respected in the devout country where 60 percent of its 12 million people are Christian. 'A new start' On Friday, Francis delivered a pointed speech to the country's political leaders, warning they must make "a new start" toward reconciliation and end the greed and power struggles tearing the nation apart. Map of South Sudan. By (AFP) "Future generations will either venerate your names or cancel their memory, based on what you now do," he told an audience that included President Salva Kiir and his rival and deputy Riek Machar, as well as diplomats, religious leaders and traditional kings. "No more bloodshed, no more conflicts, no more violence and mutual recriminations about who is responsible for it, no more leaving your people athirst for peace," Francis said. The pope promised in 2019 to travel to South Sudan, when he hosted Kiir and Machar at a Vatican retreat and asked them to respect a hard-fought ceasefire for their people. In scenes that reverberated in South Sudan, Francis knelt and kissed the feet of two foes whose personal armies had been accused of horrific war crimes. But four years later, the country remains mired in intractable conflict and lags at the bottom of global rankings on health, poverty and stable governance. Human rights groups have urged Francis to press South Sudan's leaders to address widespread impunity for abuses and deliver justice for victims of war-era atrocities committed on their watch. The stop in South Sudan follows a visit to the Democratic Republic of Congo, another resource-rich country plagued by persistent conflict and also often overlooked by the world. The visit -- Francis's fifth to Africa -- was initially scheduled for 2022 but had to be postponed because of problems with the pope's knee. The affliction has made him dependent on a wheelchair and has seen the itinerary pared back in both countries. An aspiring presidential candidate for the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), Kennedy Agyapong admits both his party and the opposition NDC are corrupt. The controversial legislator described himself as the only disciplined character among the two "corrupt" political fraternities. Hosted by Paul Adom Otchere on his Good Evening Ghana show, which aired on Accra-based Metro TV, the aspiring flagbearer of NPP conceded the misappropriation of funds cited by the Auditor General in its recent audit report. "The performance of NPP during the COVID, I am not holding back; we have made some mistakes that we all have to accept, and I will be the first person to accept," he noted. Even though the NPP has made similar mistakes like the NDC, Mr. Agyapong says his outfits record supersedes the Mahama administration, which makes the former President a bad choice for Ghana. He indicated that Mahama should give himself a break from politics. "But if you compare the two governments, Akufo-Addo and Mahama, Mahama is not an alternative to Ghana because the man has been fortunate to succeed Atta Mills for two years," Kennedy Agyapong said. Responding to the former Presidents claim that the NPP is corrupt, the Assin Central MP said, "NPP is corrupt, NDC is corrupt, that is why you have Kennedy Agyapong coming in." Unlike the members of his party, particularly his contenders in the flagbearership race, he boasted that "I am a disciplined NPP (member)." Nebraska Gov. Jim Pillen has appointed former state Sen. Jim Scheer of Norfolk to the University of Nebraska Board of Regents to replace himself. Scheer will serve District 3, which covers northeast Nebraska. It's the district Pillen had served until he resigned the day before he was sworn in as the state's 41st governor. Scheer will serve out the remainder of Pillen's term, which expires at the end of 2024. "Jim is a public servant who will work to grow the University of Nebraska," Pillen said in a press release. "He believes in educational excellence, the importance of agriculture and fiscal conservative leadership." NU President Ted Carter said he looks forward to Scheer's leadership on the board and working together to serve students' needs and to grow the workforce. Scheer served two terms representing District 19 in the Legislature from 2013 to 2021. He was elected speaker in 2017. Previously, he served on the Norfolk school board and as the mayor of Norfolk. Between 2004 and 2008, he was on the Nebraska State Board of Education and served as the board president in 2011 and 2012. He is a small business owner, who runs an insurance agency and an auto-parts store. Scheer earned his Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. The Board of Regents has eight members elected by district to six-year terms. The board next meets on Feb. 10. Scheer is the second high-profile appointment to an elected position that Pillen has made in his first month as governor. He picked his predecessor, former-Gov. Pete Ricketts, to serve in the U.S. Senate seat previously held by Ben Sasse. Ricketts was one of Pillen's most prominent backers and he contributed $100,000 directly to Pillen's campaign for governor, which raked in more than $11 million during the election cycle, according to state disclosure records. By contrast, Scheer made two contributions to Pillen's campaign totaling $1,250. Top Journal Star photos for January 2023 04.02.2023 LISTEN Private legal practitioner Martin Kpebu has urged all University Professors and academia to speak out on the concerns they have regarding how the economy is being managed by the government. He noted that some professors are unwilling to speak out despite having reservations about how the government is handling the economy. Making reference to German-born theoretical physicist Albert Einstein who he said spoke on issues affecting the economy then despite not being an economist, he asked Ghanaian professors not to coil back out of fear. You can be a Professor of chemistry but you have to speak out on how the economy is being managed, Albert Einstein spoke out, Kpebu said on the Key Points on TV3 Saturday, February 4. Martin Kpebu accused the government of mismanaging the economy. 3news.com East African leaders were in Burundi on Saturday for a regional summit to discuss the raging conflict in eastern DR Congo. The talks are being hosted in Burundi's economic hub Bujumbura by the East Africa Community, which is leading mediation efforts to end the resurgent fighting in the restive east of the giant central African nation. "Agenda: Evaluation of the Security Situation in Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo & Way Forward," the EAC said on Twitter on Friday as it announced the extraordinary summit. President Paul Kagame of Rwanda, which is accused of backing rebel groups in the eastern DRC, is among those attending -- his first visit to Burundi since 2011. The two neighbours in the Great Lakes region of central Africa have long had tempestuous relations, each accusing the other of interfering in their internal affairs. In 2020, Kagame urged the then newly-elected Burundian President Evariste Ndayishimiye to reset diplomatic ties but his overture was rejected as "hypocritical". Burundi in particular has accused Rwanda of harbouring those behind a failed 2015 coup that plunged the country into violent chaos. The Burundian presidency tweeted pictures of Kagame's arrival in the lakeside city, and other heads of state including Kenya's President William Ruto, Uganda's veteran leader Yoweri Museveni and Samia Suluhu Hassan of Tanzania. A Congolese presidency official said Friday that President Felix Tshisekedi would be going to the summit, although by around 1000 GMT he did not appear to have arrived. 'Brutal atrocities' The meeting is being held shortly after a visit by Pope Francis to Kinshasa, where he met victims of the conflict and condemned the "inhumane violence" and "brutal atrocities" taking place. Militias have plagued the mineral-rich region for decades, many of them a legacy of regional wars that flared during the 1990s and the early 2000s. Since November 2021, a rebel group known as M23 has seized chunks of territory in the east and come within miles (kilometres) of its main commercial hub Goma. The DRC accuses its smaller central African neighbour Rwanda of backing the M23, something UN experts, the United States and other Western countries agree with. Kigali denies the charge. Last week, Qatar had planned to host a meeting between Tshisekedi and Kagame, but diplomats said the Congolese leader refused to attend. Tensions between the two countries were exacerbated last week when Rwandan forces opened fire at a Congolese fighter jet they said had violated Rwandan airspace. Kinshasa described it as an attack that amounted to "an act of war". The EAC decided to create a military force to pacify eastern Congo last year, with the first troops arriving in Goma in November. The soldiers are permitted to use force to dislodge M23 fighters but they have not yet done so. The EAC groups Burundi, the DRC, Kenya, Rwanda, South Sudan, Tanzania and Uganda. Kenya's former president Uhuru Kenyatta, who is mediating on behalf of the EAC, last month voiced concern over the "sharply deteriorating" situation in the east. Capt. Ibrahim Traore, Burkina Faso's junta leader, said his country has not severed diplomatic ties with France, despite asking it to withdraw its forces, and denied Russian Wagner mercenaries were in the country. Paris recently recalled its ambassador to Burkina Faso after agreeing to demands from the ruling military junta to pull out its troops. In his first public comments since then, Captain Ibrahim Traore insisted Burkina had not broken ties with France its former colonial power. "The end of diplomatic agreements, no!" Traore said in a television interview with Burkinabe journalists on Friday. "There is no break in diplomatic relations or hatred against a particular state." Traore, who came to power in a military coup last October, vowing to win back territory from jihadists, went on to deny that there were mercenaries from the Wagner Group deployed in Burkina Faso. Wagner, a Russian mercenary group founded in 2014, has been involved in conflicts in Africa, Latin America, the Middle East and Ukraine. "We've heard everywhere that Wagner is in Ouagadougou," he said, adding that it was a rumour "created so that everybody would distance themselves from us". "We have our Wagner, it is the VDP that we recruit," he said, referring to the Volunteers for the Defense of the Homeland civilian auxiliaries. "They are our Wagner." He said that "all the people want is their sovereignty, to live with dignity. It doesn't mean leaving one country for another". Paris confirmed last month that its special forces troops, deployed to help fight a seven-year long jihadist insurgency, would leave within a month. Under President Macron, France was already drawing down its troops across the Sahel region, which just a few years ago numbered more than 5,000. About 3,000 remain, but the forced departures from Mali and Burkina Faso as well as the Central African Republic to the south last year underline growing anti-French sentiment. (with AFP) East African leaders were holding a regional summit in Burundi on Saturday to discuss ways of calming the raging conflict in eastern DR Congo. The talks are being hosted in Burundi's economic hub Bujumbura by the East Africa Community, which is leading mediation efforts to end the fighting in the restive east of the giant central African nation. Among those attending are Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi as well as President Paul Kagame of Rwanda, which is accused of backing the resurgent M23 rebels who have captured swathes of land in the eastern DRC. "Discussions are expected to focus on evaluating the Luanda roadmap which demanded the effective and definitive withdrawal of M23/RDF (Rwanda Defence Forces) troops from occupied zones before January 15," the Congolese presidency said on Facebook, referring to a deal reached in Angola in July last year. "The terrorist troops from M23 have never left these zones, on the contrary the M23 and its allies have expanded their areas of occupation." Kagame is on his first visit to Burundi since 2013 when he attended independence celebrations, with tensions high between the neighbours. Other heads of state attending the summit, which opened in the early afternoon according to the Burundi government, include Kenya's President William Ruto, Uganda's veteran leader Yoweri Museveni and Samia Suluhu Hassan of Tanzania. The EAC groups Burundi, the DRC, Kenya, Rwanda, South Sudan, Tanzania and Uganda. 'Brutal atrocities' The meeting is being held shortly after a visit by Pope Francis to Kinshasa, where he met victims of the conflict and condemned the "inhumane violence" and "brutal atrocities" taking place. Militias have plagued the mineral-rich region for decades, many of them a legacy of regional wars that flared during the 1990s and the early 2000s. Since November 2021, the M23 has seized chunks of territory in the east and come within miles (kilometres) of its main commercial hub Goma. The DRC accuses its smaller central African neighbour Rwanda of backing the M23, something UN experts, the United States and other Western countries agree with. Kigali denies the charge. Last week, Qatar had planned to host a meeting between Tshisekedi and Kagame, but diplomats said the Congolese leader refused to attend. Tensions between the two countries were exacerbated last week when Rwandan forces opened fire at a Congolese fighter jet they said had violated Rwandan airspace. Kinshasa described it as an attack that amounted to "an act of war". The summit also signals a possible rapprochement between Burundi and Rwanda, two tiny countries in the Great Lakes region of central Africa that have long had tempestuous relations, each accusing the other of interfering in their internal affairs. In 2020, Kagame urged the then newly-elected Burundian President Evariste Ndayishimiye to reset diplomatic ties but his overture was rejected as "hypocritical". Burundi has accused Rwanda of harbouring those behind a failed 2015 coup that plunged the country into violent chaos. The EAC decided to create a military force to pacify eastern Congo last year, with the first troops arriving in Goma in November. The soldiers are permitted to use force to dislodge M23 fighters but they have not yet done so. Kenya's former president Uhuru Kenyatta, who is mediating on behalf of the EAC, last month voiced concern over the "sharply deteriorating" situation in the east. txw-strs/ach A combined team of Military and Police are currently patrolling the streets of Maame Krobo in the Afram Plains South District of the Eastern region to prevent reprisal attacks following the alleged murder of a resident by nomadic herdsman. The incident which occurred on Friday has led to the burning of some houses and properties belonging to nomadic herdsmen in the Zongo community at Maame Krobo. An early intervention from personnel of the Eastern Regional Police Command prevented the incident from escalating Friday evening as the police managed to convey the nomadic herdsmen from Mame Krobo to Donkokrom to prevent reprisal attacks. Military officers were on Saturday morning flown in from Accra to assist the regional police command to manage the situation. A scheduled briefing by the Police and the Military to calm the tempers of the aggrieved community members ended inconclusively as the youth are demanding justice. The Sempe Muslim Akwashongtse, Nii Adotey Odaawulu I, has made a passionate appeal to Captains of industries and corporate entities within the Sempe Traditional Area to come on board and help shape the educational infrastructure in the area. The Sempe Muslim Akwashongtse made the appeal when he joined the Chief Executive Officer of Accra Metropolitan Assembly, Elizabeth Sackey to tour some schools in the Sempe Traditional Area to ascertain the state of school facilities and how to make teaching and learning attractive and conducive for the children. The tour was undertaken following a request made by the Sempe Traditional Council to the government to come to the aid of schools in the area and provide a befitting classroom blocks for the children. The team toured Mamprobi Sempe 1 and 2 Basic schools as well as Sempe Girls school all in the Sempe Traditional Area to have a clear view of the state of those schools. Nii Adotey Odaawulu I revealed that the Sempe Traditional Council has serious issues over the state of some dilapidated school buildings in the area which has compelled the council to draw the attention of the government. According to him, as custodians of the land, there is the need for them as leaders to play a role in making sure that the children are safe since some school structures have become death traps. On her part, the Mayor of Accra, Madam Elizabeth Sackey assured the Sempe Muslim Akwashongtse and the Traditional Council that her outfit will ensure that the issues are addressed immediately. She added that those occupying the uncompleted GETFUND building will be moved with some relocated from the dilapidated structures to pave way for demolishing and construction of a new building. The delegation included the Mamprobi Manye Naa Suumo, Mamprobi Mankralo, Asafoatse Otun and the Sempe Chief Of Staff, Nii Anum Lartey. An initiative instituted by, the Bolgatanga Municipal Chief Executive, Rex Asanga, dubbed "Special Programme" in collaboration with Professor David Millar of Millar Institute of Transdisciplinary Development Studies (MITDS) seeks to continuously support education in the Municipality. For a start, 27 pieces of furniture (3 in one desk) have been constructed by students of the Bolgatanga Technical School (BOLTEC) at the cost of GHC4,000 for two schools in the Bolgatanga Municipality of the Upper East Region. The two schools, Azimsum Primary in Sumbrungu received 20 pieces of furniture whiles St Charles Special school in Bolgatanga central got 7. Speaking in an interview with ModernGhana News, the Municipal Chief Executive Rex Asanga said though small, it is a move in the right direction and appealed to individuals and organizations to come on board so that, together they can support their childrens education in the region. Professor David Millar of Millar Institute of Transdisciplinary Development Studies (MITDS) explained that education is the bedrock of development and must be involved in all concerns. He stated that the MCEs office could have done it, but as a development-oriented person, he thought it wise to initiate the policy to galvanize thoughtful citizens and friends to bring on board their little contributions to help solve pertinent problems. Professor Millar indicated that, in the southern sector, some Members of Parliament normally during the Christmas break, went back to their constituencies to solve some development problems with their own resources but in the northern sector, it hardly happens and applauded the MCE for the policy. He stated that the 27 desks come as a relief to 81 pupils who were lying prostrate on the floor to read and write. He said the 27 pieces at the cost of GHS4,000, if it were to be a government contract, it would have run into hundreds of thousands of Ghana cedis. Prof. Millar stated that the MCEs initiative demonstrates clearly that the various politicians can do more and not only rely on office resources to go this far. Many concerns of the people of Adansi for a substantive NPP Minister are about to be addressed as the Member of Parliament for Adansi Asokwa Constituency Kobina Tahir Hammond popularly known as K.T Hammond is about being named Minister for Trade and Industry. This will make him the first substantive minister the NPP government has ever given to Adansiman. As an astute leader and an influential individual with such charisma who has helped both Adansi and Ghana while serving as Deputy Minister of Energy; we recollect how he was able to provide access to electricity occupying about 95 percent of the entire population within Adansi. Furthermore, during his term as Deputy Minister of Interior, he helped secure slots for the youth of Adansi to be recruited into the Ghana Police Service, Military, Immigration Prison Service, and many others, all for the love of Adansi. He has again provided scholarships for those who had an interest in education at all levels and supported farmers in Adansi to receive farming equipment and produce free of charge. As a legal practitioner, he stood as a proud descendant of Adansi and fought for the royalties belonging to Adansi Traditional Council which was locked up with the government to be released. These selfless acts of service won him the title "Adansiman Nkosohene" with no objection from his opponents. These achievements of his even as a deputy Minister make him the best fit to be named as the successor of Alan Kyeremateng who recently resigned as trade minister. The people of Adansi are more than elated and await in anticipation for the official announcement of his appointment. It is believed that his imminent appointment will bring more development to Adansi Asokwa, his constituency, and Adansiman as a whole. K.T. Hammond has served as deputy energy and interior minister under the erstwhile president Kuffours administration and has been the Mp for Adansi Asokwa since 2000. Honorable Kobina Tahir will become the first substantive Minister appointed by the NPP and the only second to Hon. Alexander Ackon was an Ashanti regional minister under the Mahama-led administration. Hon. KT Hammond is currently a member of the Committee of Mines and Energy in Parliament and also a Committee member of Finance in Parliament. 04.02.2023 LISTEN Mr Michael Boadi, the Fund Raising Manager for the Ghana Integrity Initiative (GII), Ghanas Chapter of Transparency International (TI) says corruption is pervasive in Ghana. His reason is that corruption has been embraced by the entire country as a normal practice. He has, therefore called for a collective effort in resisting and fighting all forms of corruption to limit violent extremism in the country. Mr Michael Boadi said this in an interview on the Kumasi-based OTEC 102.9 FM's morning show Nyansapo on Friday February 3, 2023. "Despite a fairly robust legislative framework comprised of several accountability institutions mandated to tackle various forms of corruption, the phenomenon is still widely prevalent in Ghana. It is [therefore], ultimately, the people of Ghana who must play their part in bringing corruption to a stop. "Even the Special Prosecutor has expressed his dissatisfaction about Ghana's fight against corruption, is not only the top politicians but I can say that almost everyone in the country is at fault. "The people engaging in corrupt practices, bringing the nation down are all Ghanaians, and none in the country is ready to join the fight against corruption," he stated. He noted that the increasing cases of corruption recorded in the country remained a canker and has the tendency to further worsen the countrys ailing economy. He calls on all to help save the country by saving no to corruption. Ghana Integrity Initiative (GII), Ghanas Chapter of Transparency International (TI) says the setting up the Office of the Special Prosecutor is not enough to win the fight against corruption. GII has called on the government to provide logistical and financial support for anti-corruption agencies to effectively fight pervasive corruption in all forms. The Fund Raising Manager for GII Mr Micheal Boadi said this in an interview on the Kumasi based OTEC 102.9 FM's morning show Nyansapo on Friday, February 3, 2023. Mr Boadi believes the lack of enforcement of laws to effectively tackle corrupt practices in the country has been appalling owing to organisational inadequacies, a phenomenon blamed on insufficient budgetary allocation, direct influence of government over appointments of persons to head the institutions. It is an acknowledged fact that Ghanas challenge has always been enforcement of the regulatory regime, even where there has been progressing in introducing statutory and regulatory interventions, the enforcement of these mechanisms has always been abysmal due to institutional/structural deficits in the anti-corruption enforcement institutions or agencies, he said. He has therefore urged the government to re-strategize in the fight against corruption to make it deterrent for people to engage in the canker. He added that despite some of the measures put in place to fight corruption the results showed the country still had challenges in dealing with the menace. A Billings man pleaded not guilty Friday to charges of murder, attempted murder and multiple counts of assault with a weapon. Thomas John Slevira Jr. appeared in Yellowstone County District Court nearly four weeks after allegedly killing a man, then invading a birthday party at a midtown Billings home. Slevira was still serving a sentence in the Montana Department of Corrections when the latest felonies were filed against him, and is currently not eligible for bail. If released from DOC custody, Yellowstone County District Judge Donald L. Harris set his bond at $1 million. Officers with the Billings Police Department arrested Slevira at a residence on the 1200 block of Burlington Avenue on Jan. 9. His arrest followed a standoff that spanned several hours and drew members of the BPD SWAT. Sleveria, allegedly armed with a handgun, broke into the house during a birthday party. At the time of the break-in, court documents said, there were at least 12 children under the age of ten at the party. Inside the home, Slevira allegedly shot one of the four adults who confronted him. The wounded man was later treated at a Billings hospital. When police arrived, according to charging documents, Slevira was barricaded in the homes basement. Billings police tried negotiating with Slevira and launching CS gas into the house before he surrendered. During the standoff, police found a wrecked SUV registered to Carlos Delao, a Billings resident, just north of the Burlington Avenue house. When officers went to his home on Avenue F, Delaos body was in the driveway, court documents said. Security footage recovered by investigators allegedly showed Slevira shooting Delao while he was driving the SUV, pulling his body out of the drivers seat and stealing the vehicle. Slevira first appeared in Yellowstone County Justice Court on Jan. 13 on counts of deliberate homicide and attempted deliberate homicide. With the case moving to district court, county prosecutors have added three additional counts of assault with a weapon. Prior to his arrest last month, Slevira was serving a five-year sentence to the DOC for partner or family member assault, according to department records. He was out of custody on conditional release. Friends of Delao have launched a MealTrain to benefit his family, which can be found here: mealtrain.com/trains/qn336l. Donations to his children may also be made at that site. A fundraiser has also been set up for Erik Brady, the man shot while attending the birthday party on Burlington Avenue. That GoFundMe is here: https://www.gofundme.com/f/erik-brady-and-his-family. The Executive Director of the Institute for Energy Security, Nana Amoasi VII, has called on government to provide more clarity on the gold-for-oil policy to erase doubts in the minds of Ghanaians. Speaking on the Big Issue on Citi TV on Saturday, Nana Amoasi VII said the entire policy lacks transparency hence government must come clean on the entire deal. I think at this point we are all clear that the deal lacks transparency, it is not just shrouded in secrecy, but there are a lot of inconsistencies and confusion. We think that the government can come out clear and give indications to everybody not just where we are sourcing the fuel from but who is the intermediary in this transaction, how was he elected or selected, on what basis and how much is the intermediary earning per every metric tonne deal that we do. Who is buying the gold and how much did you sell it for? We think that a lot of clarity can be brought to bear on this deal so that we can all be convinced it will give us that value that we crave. The Minority in Parliament and former President John Mahama have also called on the government to provide details on the policy to clear the doubts surrounding the deal. Meanwhile, the former Member of Parliament for Okaikwei North Constituency, Fuseini Issah, believes that the gold-for-oil policy has led to a marginal drop in diesel prices at Goil fuel stations across the country. Goil announced a 4% reduction in the price of diesel, resulting in a litre selling at 15.25. However, the price of petrol remained unchanged at 15.25. Speaking on the Big Issue, the former MP told host Selorm Adonoo that the reduction was influenced by benefits associated with the 'Gold for Oil' programme. Mr Fuseini Issah added that prices of fuel will be impacted more significantly if more consignment arrives in the country soon. By Citi Newsroom 04.02.2023 LISTEN Yesterday, Thursday, February 2, 2023, the much-anticipated Steering Committee, National Executive Committee and National Council meetings of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) was held at the Alisa Hotel in Accra. Topmost on the agenda was the date(s) and modalities/regulations for the impending Presidential and Parliamentary primaries of the party ahead of the 2024 general elections. Unfortunately, after grueling hours of meetings, word came out that the party failed to settle on the date(s) for the presidential and parliamentary primaries for the umpteenth time, leaving members and sympathizers disappointed. The disappointment stems from the fact that yesterday's meeting was originally scheduled for 31st January, 2023, but was postponed at the eleventh hour to "broaden stakeholder consultation and engagements." This latest development therefore brings to question the kind of consultations that were done during the period under reference. What makes the outcome of yesterday's meeting more interesting is the fact that all the "VVIPs" worthy to be consulted on this matter form part of the National Council, so one wonders the individuals/party gurus the party hierarchy will be consulting on the subject again. Clearly, something is not adding up somewhere! Jubilee House v Asylum Down Already, there are rumors in town that Jubilee House (government) and Asylum Down (party) are sharply divided on the date/s for the presidential primaries. While the party is all for an early Congress ---- around August/September, 2023, the former thinks otherwise ---- late primaries, but within the constitutional timeframe. This, according to sources is to avoid potential parallel supremacy or power sharing between the outgoing President and next flagbearer. Parliamentary Primaries There are also genuine fears that when parliamentary primaries are organized early in constituencies with sitting MPs, the likelihood of an MP losing primaries; abandoning their parliamentary duties to sabotage government business is very high. And so, there is the need to push it to early next year, by which time almost all government business would have gotten approval in Parliament. I kinda agree with this particular proposition considering the hung Parliament we have. However, l understand our MPs are also against it. They want it early. Indeed, Article 13 (4) of the NPP constitution prescribes that, "When the Party is in government, the election of a Presidential Candidate shall be held not later than 11 months before the national general election." So, in fact, any date from now till 31st January, 2024 will not be unconstitutional as far as the presidential primaries is concerned. But the question is, will a late Congress (probably January 2024) be in the interest of the larger party that birthed the government? Just like the biblical Paul wrote in one of his letters to the Corinthians, "not all lawful things are expedient or advantageous." Inasmuch as a late Congress is lawful, will that help the party? Conclusion I humbly appeal to the government and the party's hierarchy to move away from their entrenched positions and compromise their stance in the interest of all kukrudites. The precedence of the 23rd December 2007 Legon presidential primaries and the June 20, 2020 parliamentary primaries (occasioned by COVID-19) must guide us. We can't afford to fail the masses! Assalamu alaikum!! Sir Obama Pokuase No. 345 Baobab Street NPP Member In Good Standing "Generative artificial intelligence (AI) describes algorithms (such as ChatGPT) that can be used to create new content, including audio, code, images, text, simulations, and videos. Recent new breakthroughs in the field have the potential to drastically change the way we approach content creation." - McKinsey & Company For a contrarian, for whom ethical behaviour and having a moral compass, are important attributes that all good journalists ought to have, the dream of being able to deliver world-class content, in one's own 100 percent owned media outlets, is finally here, thank goodness. Today, providing world -class content, in media outlets 100 percent owned by one, can, incredibly, now be accomplished with AI chatbots, such as ChatGPT, without a single human media professional employee, who may or may not have the desired attributes one seeks in those whom one would have had to hitherto recruit, in the past , before AI chatbots like ChatGPT, came along. Wow. Lol. Cool. The experiment of curating and posting interesting content on one's Facebook Lite page, which has a worldwide readership spanning all our biosphere's seven continents, to establish a global reputation will now be put to good use. Finally. Wow. In light of all the above, dear critical-reader, with the greatest respect, and in all humility, the message to Ghana's media world, from this uneducated old fool, Kofi Thompson is: Watch this space,oooo, mainstream Ghanaian media - to use an apt Ghanaian pidgin English phrase: We dey come takeover, soon, oooo, wai. Yoooooooo... 04.02.2023 LISTEN It's fascinating to watch the evolving event that characterizes the National Cathedral's double identity drama. Lawmaker Okudzeto Ablakwah has taken it upon himself to uncover corruption in the clergy's backyard. He attempted to create the impression that Rev. Kusi Boateng had engaged in corrupt acts as a result of his engagement with the national cathedral. First, the lawmaker claimed aloft allotment of funds to Kusi Boateng on his social media page. He went on to pull him into the identity saga and threaten to expose him even further if he, Kusi Boateng, did not resign from the board of the national cathedral. The honourable member requested that CHRAJ investigate Kusi Boateng in light of his claims. Even after inviting CHRAJ, Hon. Ablakwah will not stop his social stalking of the pastor. The event took a turn when Okudzeto was required to establish that his claims were not motivated by vindictiveness or character assassination, but rather by the good of the nation. Rev Kusi Boateng, who was in the midst of this identity crisis, sought legal assistance for what he described as a privacy breach of personal documentation leak by Ablakwah. Regrettably, the legislator who was adamant about establishing his point on his identity crisis expose was unwilling to yield to the law. He eventually eluded court service on him, as if he were fleeing the restraining order. The straw that broke the camel's back came when the lawmaker openly desecrated the law in plain view of the public. This surprised many Ghanaians, who thought the politician should have known better than to disrespect a high court bailiff. The congressman was unaware that a trap had been laid for him, and due to his lack of judgment and sufficient discretion during the occasion, he was seen on camera tossing away and kicking court documents. His compromised attitude toward the judiciary has hampered his efforts to uncover corrupt individuals. If truth and justice advocates disrespect the law and denigrate the court in public, they cannot be said to be acting in the national interest. I am convinced that the court is under attack by politicians who have long sought to drag the judiciary into contempt to further their parochial interests. I will ask the chief justice to change the way bailiffs serve court documents on defendants since their job has been threatened for a long time. Ghana is greater than every politician, because, without Ghana, no politician would have the chance to violate the law. Isaac Ofori Demographer, Human Rights Activist, Educator, Unionist Joseph Kwame Kyeretwie Boakye Danquah, also known as J.B. Danquah, one of Ghana's greats, died in a tragic way 58 years ago. On February 4, 1965, he died of a heart attack while detained without trial at Nsawam Medium Prison. He was one of the leaders who ran for president against Dr. Kwame Nkrumah in April 1960 but lost. On October 3, 1961, Danquah was arrested under the Preventive Detention Act for alleged involvement in plots to destabilise the CPP government. On June 22, 1962, he was released and elected President of the Ghana Bar Association. On January 8, 1964, the then-69-year-old was arrested again for allegedly being involved in a plot against the President and he died as a result. Danquah was given a national funeral after the National Liberation Council (NLC) overthrew the CPP government in February 1966. Boakye Danquah, born on December 18, 1895, rose to prominence as an astute politician, scholar, lawyer and one of Ghana's founding fathers. He was a key figure in pre- and post-colonial Ghana, which was formerly known as the Gold Coast. He is credited with giving the country its name. Danquah was a key opponent of President and independence leader Kwame Nkrumah during his political career. He was described as the "doyen of Gold Coast politics" by the Watson Commission of Inquiry into the 1948 Accra riots. The 25 divisional chiefs drawn from the six administrative districts of the Kusaug state; Garu, Tempane, Pusiga, Zebilla, Binduri and Bawku municipal are not happy with the stoning silence of the Vice President of the Republic of Ghana Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia. They want him to speak against the violence being perpetrated in Bawku. According to the divisional chiefs and queen mothers, the Vice President's silence on the Bawku conflict has been too loud and is fueling a lot of speculations. The divisional chiefs said this at a press conference to express their revulsion and demand for immediate action to be taken to bring justice to the military killings in Bawku. In the press statement read by kusaug traditional council secretary, Patrick Adakudugu stated that " The Vice President of the Republic of Ghana who is a Mamprusi and in whose residence the settler Bawku Mamprusis once demonstrated for what they called his lack of support for his kinsmen, must openly speak against violence being perpetrated in Bawku. We wish to say that, the silence of the vice president on the Bawku conflict has been too loud and is fueling a lot of speculations." The Chiefs, however, call all Kusaasi youth groups to avoid conducting themselves in ways that will undermine the peace efforts of the Zugraana and the government of Ghana. Read full statement below: PRESS CONFERENCE OF THE KUSAUG TRADITIONAL COUNCIL February 3rd, 2023 Friends of the media Ladies and Gentlemen Call for Urgent Steps to Restore Peace, Law and Order in Bawku: A Joint Statement by 25 Divisional Chiefs of the Kusaug Traditional Area We members of the Kusaug Traditional Council, who are the Chiefs from all the 25 Divisions within the six Districts and Constituencies that make up the Kusaug Traditional Area (KTA), wish to express our deep concern about the prolonged acts of violence in our Traditional Capital, Bawku. Since November 2021, Bawku has been going through an unending spate of violence, which has resulted in the death of dozens of people, destruction of property and the stalling of development. The government has had to also allocate significant resources that could have been used for development, towards the deployment of security forces to maintain law and order in Bawku and its environs. As the traditional heads of our respective divisions within the KTA, we wish to acknowledge with great admiration and reverence, the exceptional leadership of our Overlord, His Royal Eminence, Zugran Abogrago Azoka II, who is also the Bawku Naba. In the face of constant extreme provocations, our Overlord has constantly admonished us to prevail on our subjects to be peaceful. In fact, but for his exceptional patience and commitment to peace, the conflict in Bawku would have escalated to unimaginable proportions. It is in the context of the above that we wish to express our deep concern about the continuous spate of lawlessness and killing of innocent civilians not just by settler Mamprusis in Bawku but also by the military personnel deployed to the town to protect lives and property. While we remain loyal and committed to the orders of our Overlord, His Royal Eminence the Bawku Naba, Zugraan Abogrago Azoka II; we wish to point out that there is a limit to what the patience and peace commitment of our Overlord can to do to restore peace in Bawku. This is why we are calling for urgent steps to be taken to bring an end to the criminal acts of violence in our traditional capital. In the absence of such urgent steps, we may be compelled to act robustly to defend ourselves from the ongoing violence and criminal activities. But before we go on to suggest some of the steps that should be taken to ensure peace in Bawku, we wish to set the records straight on the following three points to help enhance the understanding of the good people of Ghana on issues relating to the Bawku conflict. 1. Bawku Naba is not just the Chief of Bawku: His Royal Eminence the Bawku Naba, Zugran Abogrago Azoka II, is not just the Chief of Bawku. He is the Overlord of the entire Kusaug area of the Upper East region spanning six (6) districts, namely: Bawku Municipal; Binduri District; Bawku West District (Zebilla); Pusiga District; Garu District; and Timpane District. As our overlord, the Zugran enskinned all of us as his divisional chiefs of the various divisions in the KTA. We, therefore, owe total and absolute allegiance and loyalty to him. Thus, anyone seeking to challenge the authority or legitimacy of the Bawku Naba cannot be seeking to become the chief of just Bawku. Such a person is seeking to become our Overlord and Overlord of the KTA. Indeed, it is unconscionable for anyone or group to assume or think that it is possible for a non-Kusaasi to become Overlord of we the Kusaasi People and the KTA. We wish to state emphatically that we remain resolutely and absolutely loyal to our Overlord, His Royal Eminence, Zugran Abugrago Azoka II. We wish to also state irrefutably that it is never ever possible for we, and our subjects in all the divisions, to owe allegiance to anyone but the Zugran of Kusaug who is also the Bawku Naba. 2. There is no one and nothing as regent of Bawku. A traditional area or chiefdom can only have a regent (caretaker chief) when there is no substantive chief. Bawku has a rightful, substantive, legitimate, gazetted chief who is also the Overlord of the KTA, which spans the six political districts and constituencies in the area. The Zugraan is also the President of the KTA. The Bawku Naba, His Royal Eminence, Zugraan Abugrago Azoka II, has ruled and provided exemplary leadership for the KTA for the last 39 years. He is a member and one-time President of the Upper East Regional House of Chiefs. He is a member of the National House of Chiefs. He is recognised and acclaimed by the President of the Republic and the Ministry of Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs. He is affirmed by a Supreme Court ruling. Giving the above facts and many more, anyone calling himself or being called a regent of Bawku is simply a trouble-maker and the cause of the ongoing acts of violence and criminal activities that are being perpetrated under the guise of a chieftaincy conflict. We call on the government to swiftly deal such an imposter to allow for peace to return to Bawku. 3. There is a Supreme Court Ruling on Bawku Chieftaincy In April 2003, the settler Mamprusis in Bawku led by one Alhaji Ibrahim Adam Zangbeo, filed a case at the Supreme Court of Ghana to challenge the legitimacy of the current Bawku Naba who is also the Zugran of Kusaug. First of all, the filling of that case was an admission and a recognition on the part of the settler Mamprusis in Bawku that there was (and there still is) a legally recognised Bawku Naba. If they did not recognise that there was (and there still is) a Bawku Naba, what did they seek to challenge at the Supreme Court? In the course of the case at the Supreme Court, when they realised the baselessness of their claims, the settler Bawku Mamprusis applied to the Court to withdraw their unmeritorious case. When they applied to withdraw their case, the Supreme Court had to make a decision and the Court did make a decision. The Supreme Court ruled to grant their application to withdraw their case. The Court did not, however, end it there. The Court also ruled that once withdrawn, the settler Bawku Mamprusis have no liberty to reapply to the Supreme Court on the same matter (Bawku Chieftaincy) in the future, under the Chieftaincy provisions of the 1992 constitution. The Supreme Court then went on to award cost against the settler Bawku Mamprusis, in favour of the Bawku Naba, whose legitimacy and authority the settler Bawku Mamprusis had sought to challenge at the Court. Since the Court ruling over 19 years ago, the settler Bawku Mamprusis have contemptuously refused to pay the costs awarded by the Supreme Court. For the sake of peace, the Bawku Naba has resisted several calls on him to file contempt charges against the settler Mamprusi claimant. If they have confidence in their claims and challenge to the legitimacy of the Bawku Naba, why have the settler Mamprusis in Bawku not gone back to Court to challenge the legitimacy of Bawku Naba, instead of resorting to guns and violence to destabilise the peace of Bawku? And lets make one thing very clear. The issue is Bawku is not about two royal gates fighting over succession to the Bawku Skin. It is about one ethnic group, in this case, the Mamprusis, seeking to impose their rule over Kusasis on their own traditional land. Kusasis are the largest ethnic group in all of the Upper East and second only to Dagombas in all of the five Northern regions. Bawku is the commercial and traditional capital of Kusaug Tradtional Area. There is no way Mamprusis can come from Nalerigu/Gambaga in the Northereast Region to impose a Mamprusi chief in Bawku to rule over 25 Divisional areas of Kusaug. On the basis of the foregoing and our unwavering loyalty to our Overlord, His Royal Eminence Zugraan Abogrago Azoka II, and our resolve to support his commitment to bring peace to Bawku, we make the following recommendations: There should be strict enforcement of the laws of Ghana in Bawku to bring an end to all acts of criminality in the area. This will require exacting severe sanctions against perpetrators of lawless acts including: the act of referring to someone or someone holding himself as regent of Bawku when there is a reigning, lawfully-eskinned and recognised Bawku Naba; the use of both traditional and social media (radio, newspapers, Facebook, WhatsApp) for peddling false information; inciting hatred; perpetrating insults and other provocative expressions against each other, and in particular, against the Overlord of the KTA, His Royal Eminence, Zugran Abogrago Azoka II. Any group that seeks to contest the legitimacy of the status of Zugran Abugrago Azoka II, should resort to the available appropriate judicial mechanisms rather than the current resort to weapons and violence. The Overlord of the Mamprusis, the Nayiri, should emulate the peace efforts of his colleague, the Zugran of Kusaug, by openly calling on the settler Mamprusis in Bawku to desist from acts of violence and resort to peaceful mechanisms for resolving any grievances. The Vice President of the Republic who is a Mamprusi and in whose residence the settler Bawku Mamprusis once demonstrated for what they called his lack of support for his kinsmen, must openly speak against the violence being perpetrated in Bawku. We wish to say that, the silence of the Vice President on the Bawku conflict has been too loud and if fuelling a lot of speculations. All Kusaasi youth should avoid conducting themselves in ways that undermine the peace efforts of the Zugran and the government of Ghana, which we, as Divisional Chiefs have committed ourselves to. The security agencies in Bawku should adhere to the law and enforce same. All killings of unarmed civilians as happened recently should be investigated, culprits brought to account and justice served to the bereaved families. We wish to end by acknowledging and commending His Excellency the President of the Republic, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, for his unyielding commitment towards finding a lasting solution to the crisis in Bawku. We wish to assure his Excellency the President, the government and the good people of Ghana that we are solidly behind our Overlord, His Royal Eminence Zugran Abogrago Azoka II, in his commitment to working with His Excellency the President, his government and all stakeholders to bring peace and development to Bawku. . NABA TAMBIIS BAALUK KUNWIAK IBRAHIM AGUURO I (PUSIGA NABA) FOR AND BEHALF OF THE TRADITIONAL COUNCIL President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo Friday urged Germany to encourage China, an ad hoc member of the Paris Club, to support Ghana's debt restructuring efforts. He said it was critical that the Paris Club swiftly establishes, with the participation of other official creditors, a creditors committee, to support the efforts that would enable Ghana to restore economic growth. The President made the call when the visiting German Finance Minister, Christian Lindner called on him at the Jubilee House, Accra. Linden, who was at the head of a delegation from his country, held bilateral talks with the President aimed at boosting relations and economic ties between the two nations. President Akufo-Addo told the minister that the main concern for his government was to conclude negotiations with the International Monetary Fund (IMF), particularly at the Board Level and seal a deal with the Bretton Woods institution by mid-March this year. Our main concern right now is the arrangements that we are in the process of concluding with the IMF and the specific assistance that will be useful to us and help us fast-track the process. Our target is that by the middle of March, we should be before the Board for the full agreement. We have already taken one important step forward in concluding a staff-level agreement with the IMF and we are now looking to go the full haul in concluding the agreement. We are hoping that it will be done by the middle of march. One of the steps towards that has been the domestic debt exchange programme that we are on, which fortunately, we have quite a lot of difficulties, has now been virtually concluded, he stated. However, President Akufo-Addo stressed, that there was a vital need for other creditors to support the efforts that his government was undertaking to restructure both the external and domestic debts of the country, to enable the IMF deal to fall through quickly. We now have our relations with the Paris club and the common framework, and we are looking for as quickly as possible a creditor committee to be established, so we will have the body with whom we can engage to bring those discussions as quickly as possible. We have good relations with China. We will like you to encourage China to participate in these programmes as quickly as possibleA very important consideration for us is the financial stability fund that has been promised us as one of the key outcomes of these negotiations and definitely once again, your voice in trying to bring that into being is something that we would appreciate very much, President Akufo-Addo told Finance Minister Lindner. The President commended the German government for extending support to Ghana to enable her to overcome the current economic difficulties. He said the German government had proven to be a reliable ally and Ghana would continue to count on the European nation as a privileged partner as the country seeks a bailout from the IMF. IMF last December reached a Staff-Level Agreement on a $3 billion, three years Extended Credit Facility with Ghana to relieve its debt distress. The approval of the package is however subject to Ghana comprehensively restructuring its domestic and external debts. The President in further discussions with the German delegation praised the German government for supporting peace efforts in the West African region. He was particularly distressed about the spillover of terrorism from the Sahel region and the instability posed by cross-border terrorism in West Africa. Currently, there are some 4000 Burkinabe Citizens seeking refuge in Ghana following attacks by suspected terrorists and militants in Burkina Faso. We are directly in the line of fire. Burkina Faso is our northern neighbour and to have the jihadist menace there, which is very real, I think in the last six weeks some 4000 young people from Burkina Faso have come to take refuge here in Ghana and those are the ones that the Refugee Board can officially count. And usually, in these matters, you have to add another third of the numbers coming in, unaccounted for, so we are talking about substantial numbers of people who are already coming southwards as a result of the difficulties in Burkina Faso to Ghana. So we have a direct important strategic interest in doing whatever we can to bring this insurgency to an end and help in stabilizing the government in Burkina Faso and in that exercise you have been very useful and helpful to us, he said. On his part, Mr Lindner said the German government would do whatever it can to support West African deal with its issues. We know that the stability and security in this region of Africa are essential for our security in Europe and we see economic challenges in Ghana but opportunities for bilateral trade and this is why we are here, he said. GNA 04.02.2023 LISTEN Flagbearer hopeful of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Alan Kyerematen, has admitted that the worsening economy is making it difficult for the party to come up with a campaign message for the 2024 general elections. Speaking during a visit to the Sefwi Wiawso Traditional Council as part of his campaign tour, the former Trade and Industry Minister hailed the performance of President Nana Akufo-Addo but stated that the poor state of the economy will make it difficult for the NPP to convince Ghanaians to retain them in the 2024 general elections. Akufo-Addo has done well, when the NPP came, there was no free SHS, but we have brought it, planting for food and jobs, we have brought it, One District, One Factory, we have brought it, I can recount a number of the policies, but we all know that times are hard. We are all in difficulty, we have worked hard but due to the economic hardship, our key message for campaigning as a party for the 2024 election has become difficult for us. But you see, one of our main challenges as a country is how successive governments abandon policies they inherit from another government. This is what has derailed our development efforts. So I would wish that for the first time in the history of the country, allow the NPP to continue, so our policies can gain roots while we do away with the bad policies. If we mean well for the country this is what must happen, Mr Kyerematen said in Twi. Mr Kyerematen also urged the Chiefs to advise the delegates to select a flagbearer who would be acceptable to the entire country. The country is expecting a turnaround based on a big vision to be delivered with competence, he said. Mr Kyerematen said the overreliance on the government to build industries to create jobs needed to change to a more efficient way of empowering the private sector to create jobs for the people. Mr Kyerematen noted that as Minister for Trade and Industry under President JA Kufuor, he initiated the Presidential Special Initiatives (PSI) in four different sectors of the economy, which could have yielded over $60 billion a year to the country, had the NDC not terminated them after taking over in 2008. -Citinewsroom A nation that pride herself as the custodian of democracy within the sub-Sahara Africa on whom most African countries use as a benchmark to measure their democratic strength level. To be measured as a democratic state stands on several parameters and not just being transitional that is to say handling over political power from one political party to another as experience in the fourth republic constitution. Since the inception of the fourth republic constitution Ghana has smoothly transfer political power from one party to a different party but fails woefully on some of the parameters especially when it comes to the protection of human right. The main tenets of the democracy have always been and continuous to be the protection of the right of the minority and on this I can confidently say that as a country we have not done much in this regard. The LGBT which stands for lesbian, gay, bisexual transgender community who obviously are in the minority have witnessed a significant increase in the violation of their right simple because of their sexual orientation. I am a residence of a community called Mamobi a suburb of Accra which is a Muslim dominated. I have witnessed on countless occasions how these individuals were physically abused. On August 2015 in Mamobi a Youngman was assaulted by a vigilante group by name SAFE EMPIRE because of his sexual orientation. I have on numerous occasions been physically and verbally assaulted by these same group because of my close association with the LGBT community, one such incidence happened at my workplace. The fact is some of these guys are my childhood friends that I grew up with and I cannot distance myself because of their sexual orientation. The truth is I am not ashamed of providing protection for them. I have reported the incidence to the relevant institutions and unfortunately nothing has been done to bring the perpetrators of this crime to justice. It has become more dangerous to belong to these group (LGBT) or to be seen associating yourself with them in Ghana because at the moment there is a bill in parliament that intend to criminalize their activities. The truth of the matter is, there has not been any concrete effort from the state to protect the rights of these individuals. Unfortunately, the discrimination against the LGBT community is across the sub-Sahara Africa and example is what has been captured in the research carried by Dorah P Amorey which was originally confirmed by the International Gay Lesbian Human Right Campaign. In sum, the LGBT community has rights, and it must be protected.as a country, the focus should be on how to bring in some reforms to make it possible for these individuals to be accepted in our communities. By ALHASSAN IDDRISU ACCRA, GHANA WASHINGTON (AP) The Pentagon said at midday Friday that a Chinese spy balloon had moved eastward and was over the central United States, and that the U.S. rejected China's claims that it was not being used for surveillance. Brig. Gen. Pat Ryder, Pentagon press secretary, refused to provide details on exactly where the balloon was or whether there was any new consideration of shooting it down. The military had ruled that option out, officials had said, due to potential risks to people on the ground. Ryder said it was at an altitude of about 60,000 feet, was maneuverable and had changed course. He said it currently was posing no threat. He said there was only one balloon being tracked. Earlier, the U.S. announced that Secretary of State Antony Blinken had postponed a planned high-stakes weekend diplomatic trip to China as the Biden administration weighed a broader response to the discovery of a high-altitude Chinese balloon flying over sensitive sites in the western United States. That abrupt decision came despite China's claim that the balloon was a weather research "airship" that had blown off course. The U.S. has described it as a surveillance vehicle. The development came just before Blinken had been due to depart Washington for Beijing and marked a new blow to already strained U.S.-Chinese relations. President Joe Biden declined to comment when questioned at an economic event. Two 2024 reelection challengers, former President Donald Trump, and Nikki Haley, the former South Carolina governor and U.N. ambassador, said the U.S. should immediately shoot down the balloon. Discovery of the balloon was announced by Pentagon officials who said one of the places it was spotted was over the state of Montana, which is home to one of America's three nuclear missile silo fields at Malmstrom Air Force Base. A senior defense official said the U.S. prepared fighter jets, including F-22s, to shoot down the balloon if ordered. The Pentagon ultimately recommended against it, noting that even as the balloon was over a sparsely populated area of Montana, its size would create a debris field large enough that it could have put people at risk. The official said the balloon was headed over the Montana missile fields, but the U.S. has assessed that it had only "limited" value in terms of providing intelligence China couldn't obtain by other technologies, such as spy satellites. The discovery alarmed many in Washington across the country and, besides the U.S. protests lodged with Chinese officials, it attracted strong criticism of the administration from Republican members of Congress who have advocated taking a tougher stance with China. China, which angrily denounces surveillance attempts by the U.S. and others over areas it considers to be its territory and once forced down an American spy plane, offered a generally muted reaction to the Pentagon announcement. In a relatively conciliatory statement, the Chinese foreign ministry said late Friday that the balloon was a civilian airship used mainly for meteorological research. The ministry said the airship has limited "self-steering" capabilities and "deviated far from its planned course" because of winds. "The Chinese side regrets the unintended entry of the airship into U.S. airspace due to force majeure," the statement said, citing a legal term used to refer to events beyond one's control. Blinken had been prepared as late as Thursday to travel to Beijing this weekend but the administration had begun to reconsider the trip following the discovery of the balloon on Wednesday, even before its presence was made public, an official said. The official, who spoke to reporters on condition of anonymity due to the sensitivity of the matter, said the administration had " noted" China's expression of regret. Blinken's long-anticipated meetings with senior Chinese officials had been seen in both countries as a way to find some areas of common ground at a time of major disagreements over Taiwan, human rights, China's claims in the South China Sea, North Korea, Russia's war in Ukraine, trade policy and climate change. Although the trip, which was agreed to in November by President Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping at a summit in Indonesia, had not been formally announced, officials in both Beijing and Washington had been talking in recent days about Blinken's imminent arrival. The meetings were to begin on Sunday and go through Monday. Timeline: Chinese leader Xi Jinping's rise and rule China's Xi Jinping expands power and promotes allies Early years Regional leader National leader Across the span of human history, religion has caused wars, shaped the course of wars, worked to prevent wars and helped people to heal after wars. The interconnectedness between religion and war is almost endless. And sometimes those connections help to reveal the ways in which governments sometimes seek to exploit religions for the purposes of whatever war they are waging at the moment. All this is demonstrated by a fascinating new online exhibit called "Fighting with Faith" from the National World War I Museum in Kansas City. Here is a Religion News Service story about that exhibit. Because of the museum's purpose, this exhibit naturally tells a story that happened as part of the first world war. I encourage you to click on the link to the exhibit and spend some time hearing and seeing the story of the Halbmondlager, or Half Moon Camp, a Muslim prisoner-of-war camp in Wunsdorf, Germany. In the RNS story to which I've linked you, Patricia Cecil, specialist curator of faith, religion and World War I at the museum, is quoted this way: We conceive of it as this very European war. But it wasnt. It was a global war. And this camp is evidence of that, and the photographs we have are evidence of that. Germany and the failing Ottoman Empire, in fact, were doing their best to draw Muslim soldiers to fight on behalf of the Ottomans, an ally of the Germans. One way the Germans did that was to build a mosque -- the first ever on German soil -- at the prison and to give Muslim prisoners special treatment. (The drawings above, taken from the exhibit's website, show aspects of that mosque.) As part of the online exhibit explains, "German leadership viewed promotion of religious practice as a cornerstone of propaganda. The Ottoman Empire also advocated for Muslim prisoners of war to have a place for worship." Cecil explained it to RNS this way: From the outset, using religion as a tool of propaganda was the goal. They wanted to have the benefit of millions of Muslim soldiers. If you can get all these people currently under the rule of the British, French and Russian empires, and can get them to side with a religious ideology that also aligns with your military ideology, you have a recipe for revolution across the world. And how did that recruitment campaign go? Here's what you will find about that at the online exhibit: The campaign by most measures was a failure. Some POWs did join the alliance: about 800 prisoners from the Half Moon Camp registered for the Ottoman army and went to Turkey. Most Muslim POWs, about 4,200, or 84%, did not join the German-Ottoman alliance. A Muslim revolution to overthrow English, French and Russian empires never materialized. "Prisoners were not convinced they should join the cause of the German-Ottoman alliance," the exhibit notes say. "Germany and the Ottoman Empire were counting on pan-Islamism to have a major influence on the prisoners attitudes, but the soldiers own views of religion and their ties to home regions proved stronger." Besides learning some not-well-known history, this exhibit should remind us of the ways in which political powers sometimes seek to coerce faith communities into supporting their goals -- often in conflict with the teachings of those religions. As we've seen over and over, it's easy for people of faith to get seduced by political power and to wind up supporting politicians whose entire lives and careers are in conflict with the teachings of the religion their supporters preach. (And if the Trump era popped into mind, I'm not surprised.) By the way, seeing this online exhibit is a fine way to get introduced to the World War I museum here in Kansas City. But if you've never been in person to see this national gem, please go. It offers lots of changing exhibits and related programming that can teach us how important it is to understand our own history. * * * WHY 'WALKING HUMBLY WITH GOD' MATTERS One of the most famous verses from the Hebrew Bible is Micah 6:8, which in the Revised English Bible translation says this: "The Lord has told you mortals what is good, and what it is that the Lord requires of you: only to act justly, to love loyalty, to walk humbly with your God." Many other translations don't use "loyalty," but "kindness" or "mercy." But I want to focus on the idea of walking humbly with God because that's what the author of this article from GoodFaithMedia says is needed in interfaith dialogue. Colin Harris writes that "humility has its roots deep in the intellect, and it has theological implications as well. Intellectually, humility is the recognition of the partiality of our understanding of anything. There will always be more to things and people than we know of them at any given time. The more complex the reality, the more partial our understanding of that reality will always be." His conclusion is that without humility, efforts to engage in deep interfaith conversation and understanding are doomed. And he's right. The idea of such dialogue is to know and to be known, not to convert someone to your ideas about religion. It's not that conversion can't happen as a result of such conversation, but that's not to goal. The goal is simply to understand another way of considering the eternal questions. * * * P.S.: I almost never see a news story about religion with a dateline out of my hometown, Woodstock, Ill. But here is one. And it has to do with the spiritual -- maybe even Buddhist -- nature of the famous movie "Groundhog Day," which was filmed in Woodstock as it pretended, for the movie, to be Punxsutawney, Pa., where a groundhog named Phil predicts each Feb. 2 when winter will end. Some year maybe some of us can watch the film together and I can tell you about the various places in Woodstock shown in the film -- unless, of course, that would be TMI. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken addresses the United Nations General Assembly during the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty review conference in New York City, Aug. 1, 2022. The suspected Chinese spy balloon drifts to the ocean after being shot down off the coast in Surfside Beach, South Carolina, Feb. 4, 2023. A bill to give women lawmakers automatic committee leadership positions in the North Dakota House of Representatives has died. Representatives in a 10-83 vote on Friday rejected House Bill 1311, which would have required the House majority leader to tap female members to chair two of the chambers 11 standing committees each biennial session. A provision in the legislation sponsored by Rep. Vicky Steiner, R-Dickinson, would have set a standard that the women appointed to chair committees hold anti-abortion views if the majority party's platform includes support for the right to life of unborn babies. No woman has chaired a standing committee in the House since 2013, and Steiner said last week she believes male majority leaders have repeatedly passed over qualified female representatives in favor of their own inner circle of men who are their friends. Steiner directly appealed to the House women on Friday, telling them, It doesnt matter what you do. The men in your class will get opportunities years before you. In the end, only seven of the 27 women serving in the chamber voted for the bill. New House Majority Leader Mike Lefor, a Republican who shares a district with Steiner, said last week he chose committee chairmen based on their abilities and his comfort level working with them. Lefor added that the bill would tie the hands of future leaders. Frankly, I believe it sets us backwards by carving out groups based on gender instead of working together as equal colleagues, Lefor said in the statement last week. Lefor also previously noted that he strongly considered two women to chair committees this session, but they both opted instead to serve on the influential House Appropriations Committee. Rep. Larry Klemin, R-Bismarck, on Friday said the House shouldnt be passing bills that allow the Senate and the governor to weigh in on House rules. Wide gender disparities exist across the Legislature. Only about a quarter of North Dakotas lawmakers are women, ranking the state in the bottom 10 nationally for female legislative representation, according to the Center for American Women and Politics. The Senate has a lower proportion of women than the House, but three standing committees Human Services; Judiciary; and State and Local Government are chaired by female GOP legislators. The magic of mother-of-pearl clouds: A stunning visual experience The Watchers The Astonishing Biodiversity of Fungi Blooms in Max Mudies Macro Photographs Colossal Gong Show Doomberg Climate #COVID19 How quickly does COVID immunity fade? What scientists know Nature. All the way at the end: The virus is evolving so fast. Whats true today might not be true tomorrow. The Effectiveness of DIY Air Filtration Units NIOSH Science Blog. DIY air filtration units can be an effective means of reducing aerosol exposure. The DIY units reduced aerosol exposure up to 73% depending on the design of the DIY unit, filter thickness, and fan airflow. (1) The original Corsi-Rosethal Box was devised and publicized in August 2020, which would be [breaks out calculator] 30 months from when this article appeared. In the midst of a pandemic caused by an airborne virus, in which over a million people have died in the United States (were #1). (2) This post is on the CDC site, but buried in a (distinctly declasse) blog. (3) Naturally, the CDC search function throws up exactly one hit: Hilariously, this single link is not to the NIOSH blog post above, but to a professional version of the same material by the same authors, published in Building and Environment, also (4) naturally linked to at NC on January 9. So CDC is erasing Corsi-Rosenthal Boxes from its own site, thereby denying its life-saving capabilities to populations served by those who still regard it as authoritative (people like school and church administrators, small business owners, dull normals looking to protect their families). This is entirely consistent with the Biden administrations Ultimate Lockdown policy of mass infection without mitigation, good job CDC. Fluticasone propionate suppresses the SARS-CoV-2 induced increase in respiratory epithelial permeability in vitro Rhinology. From the Abstract: Fluticasone propionate has been shown to restore the nasal epithelial barrier in allergic rhinitis to the level of healthy controls. The therapeutic potential of nasal steroid sprays in COVID-19 has recently been reported. However, further insight into the mode of action is warranted. Fluticasone propionate pre-treatment prevented SARS-CoV-2 increased epithelial permeability, reduced ACE2 expression and SARS-CoV-2 infection, underscoring the therapeutic potential of fluticasone propionate in the context of COVID-19. Here is a second study. GAO to HHS: Learn from COVID mistakes in replacing drug-manufacturing program Center for Infectious Disease Research and Policy (Natural News) Earlier this month, the Consumer Product Safety Commission announced that indoor gas stoves emit harmful pollution and that a ban on selling new ones was, to quote one of the agencys commissioners, on the table. (Article by Steve Goreham republished from WashingtonExaminer.com) Several studies claim that the use of gas can cause respiratory illness. The CPSC is considering restrictions on gas stoves, including possible bans in new residential construction. But attacks on gas stoves are based on questionable science and are largely driven by concerns not related to health. ELECTRIC VEHICLES NOW COST MORE TO FUEL THAN GAS-POWERED CARS: STUDY The CPSC has reportedly been considering actions on gas stoves since October. Richard Trumka Jr., a CPSC commissioner, stated, This is a hidden hazard. Any option is on the table. Products that cant be made safe can be banned. Two recent studies figure prominently in agency concerns. The first, published in January last year by Eric Lebel and others, found that gas stoves and ovens emit hazardous levels of methane and nitrogen dioxide. The second, published in December last year by Talor Gruenwald and others, estimated that 12.7% of childhood asthma cases in the U.S. were due to gas stove use. Nitrous oxide is produced at combustion temperatures above 2912 F (1,600 C) by breaking down nitrogen molecules in air. Modern stove burner flames reach temperatures above 2912 F (1,600 C), producing this gas. The nitrous oxide then combines with oxygen to form nitrogen dioxide, a pollutant. But the amount of NO 2 generated by stoves is very small only at parts per billion (ppb) levels. The Lebel study measured nitrogen dioxide levels of 100 ppb in kitchens, but this was only possible after sealing the room in plastic an unrealistic, artificial condition. Other studies have found nitrogen dioxide levels as high as 34 ppb after several hours of stove and oven use. But this level is below the 53 ppb limit of the National Ambient Air Quality Standard of the Environmental Protection Agency. The EPA states that, for nitrogen dioxide levels below 50 ppb, No health impacts are expected for air quality in this range. Meanwhile, most studies do not find hazardous levels of nitrogen dioxide from stove use. Nevertheless, the Gruenwald study claims that nitrogen dioxide from gas stoves is linked to asthma in children. It used statistical analysis to find an association between stoves and childhood asthma in the U.S. But the study itself states that it reviewed 27 other studies connected to gas stoves, and none reported associations between gas stove use and childhood asthma. In addition, the Centers for Disease Control reports that asthma attacks and asthma hospitalizations for U.S. children have been declining since 2001, while U.S. natural gas consumption rose 38% over the same period. So, then could it be that health concerns about gas stoves are really just a scare tactic? A pretext for advancing a political issue that people are less likely to care about? For more than a decade, environmentalists have promoted electrification of homes. Historically, the term electrification meant extending the electrical grid to rural areas and homes without electricity. But the renewable energy movement redefined electrification to mean eliminating the use of carbon-based fuels such as natural gas. As they see it, electrification of homes means the replacement of gas stoves, furnaces, water heaters, and even propane grills with electric appliances. They say this is needed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and solve the problem of human-caused climate change. Talor Gruenwald, the lead author of the study on childhood asthma in the U.S., is employed by the Rocky Mountain Institute, which also funded the study. For three decades, the institute has been working on programs to counter global warming. Eric Lebel is a researcher at Stanford University, with articles on methane emissions from oil and gas wells, gas water heaters, and gas stoves. His goal appears to be to counter global warming through the electrification of homes by claiming harmful health effects from gas appliances. The Netherlands and the United Kingdom now urge their residents to replace gas appliances with electric appliances and heat pumps as part of programs to reach net-zero emissions. These policies were adopted even though 92% of homes in the Netherlands use gas for heating and 78% of homes in the U.K. use gas. The Netherlands aims to disconnect gas lines from eight million homes by 2050. Read more at: WashingtonExaminer.com (Natural News) UPDATE: The account was reinstated shortly after the lock out. Original story follows: Project Veritas was locked out of their recently regained Twitter account on Friday afternoon. This after having posted a video confronting a YouTube executive for striking videos wherein Veritas had confronted a Pfizer director from their platform. (Article by Libby Emmons republished from ThePostMillennial.com) Alx posted the banning to that warehouse of ideas and discourse, saying Whats going on? And tagging Twitters CEO, Twitter Safety, and the new head of Twitter Safety Ella Girwin. YouTube had already struck the video from their platform. BREAKING: @Project_Veritas has been locked out of their Twitter account in the wake of their bombshell video exposing Pfizer. Whats going on? cc: @ElonMusk @EllaGIrwin @TwitterSafety pic.twitter.com/RHAUbxx9Ku ALX ?? (@alx) February 3, 2023 Project Veritas was surprised to learn of this temporary lock out, Project Veritas Mario Balaban told The Post Millennial, as we were conducting journalism as we always do by asking questions to powerful people. In this case, a YouTube executive. We have appealed and look forward to Elon Musk clearing this situation up, Balaban said. In that video, Christian Hartsock confronts the Global Head of Trust and Safety Matt Halprin to find out why they banned the videos with the Pfizer director from their platform. Hartsock asked pointed questions about how much Pfizer is paying YouTube to run cover for them. Halprin continued walking and refused to engage with the Veritas reporters questions. You touched me, Halprin said at one point, thats not something you want to do. Project Veritas videos exposing a Pfizer director show him discussing research done by the pharmaceutical giant into gain-of-function research, and the potential impacts on womens menstrual cycles after taking the Covid-19 vaccine. Veritas, which had been banned from the platform for more than a year before being reinstated by Elon Musk, is one of many accounts that have recently come under fire by the purportedly free speech-based platform in recent weeks. The message sent by Twitter to Veritas reads: Weve temporarily limited some of your account features, and goes on to say that the account violated the Twitter Rules. Those rules, which have seemed obtuse and opaque at times, were meant to be far more transparent under Musks leadership. Musk purchased the platform in 2022 with the expressed purpose of making it more transparent and upholding free speech and a free press. The specific violation, per Twitter, was that Veritas was guilty of violating our rules against abuse and harassment. You may not engage in the targeted harassment of someone or incite other people to do so. This includes wishing or hoping that someone experiences physical harm To get their account back, Veritas will have to delete the tweet. Veritas account will remain locked pending appeal. This is a breaking story and will be updated. Read more at: ThePostMillennial.com (Natural News) The Colorado River basin states have failed for the second time in six months to reach a consensus on the water usage cuts that seek to distribute the burden of drought more equitably as the river dries up. Six of the seven basin states sketched out a joint proposal for how they could meet the federal governments demand to limit water consumption as more than two decades of drought have already pushed the crucial reservoirs to dangerously low levels. California, the largest water user of the seven basin states, did not join. According to reports, the Department of the Interior had asked all seven states to contribute plans by the end of last month to reduce water usage by two to four million acre-feet or up to one-third of the rivers annual average flow. The proposal by the six states Arizona, Colorado, Nevada, New Mexico, Utah and Wyoming aims to protect the major reservoirs in Lake Powell and Lake Mead from falling below critical levels, such as when the dams would no longer be able to generate electricity, or at dead pool, when water would effectively be blocked from flowing out of these lakes. Before above-average snows in recent weeks, the Bureau of Reclamation was projecting that Lake Powell could start to reach such thresholds by this summer. (Related: Federal government forces water supply cuts for Arizona, New Mexico and Mexico to avoid collapse of Colorado River System.) We recognize that over the past twenty-plus years there is simply far less water flowing into the Colorado River system than the amount that leaves it and that we have effectively run out of storage to deplete, the six states said in a letter to the bureau earlier in the week. State representatives said they would continue to work together and with the federal government and others to reach consensus on how best to share the burden of protecting the system from which we all derive so many benefits. Meanwhile, California fears that it has the most to lose in any new agreement because it has the largest water needs and because it has historically used whatever unused surplus remained after other states drew water from the river. On Tuesday, Jan. 31, the Golden State submitted its own proposal for how the reductions should play out in coming years, depending on the elevation in Lake Mead. The proposal begins with a 400,000 acre-foot cut, as previously offered, and continues with additional reductions as the reservoir declines to levels where power generation would be threatened. The California proposal makes a constructive effort to uphold the Law of the River while making substantial efforts to protect the Colorado River system with voluntary reductions far beyond Californias legal obligations, JB Hamby, chairman of the Colorado River Board of California, wrote in the introduction to the plan. A century ago, the region agreed to the Colorado River Compact, apportioning water between Upper Basin and Lower Basin states. But increased scarcity has led to calls for new agreements. White House should step in between California and neighboring states over the Colorado River standoff As California disagreed with the water plan offered by the other basin states as it upholds its senior rights to the river, analysts are calling out to the Biden administration to mediate immediately for a speedy resolution. The states are not going to reach an agreement. We are just too far apart, Rep. Greg Stanton (D-Ariz.), who represents the Phoenix area, said. Now is the time that we need this administration to come up with a solution to this dilemma, and we need it now. The standoff has thrusted the Biden administration into the position of deciding how to resolve competing claims on water shared by 40 million people. The other six states want to avoid exhausting their supplies from the Colorado River, whereas California wants protect its farmers and claims to the water. California Natural Resources Secretary Wade Crowfoot, an appointee of Governor Gavin Newsom, as well as the states two senators, have criticized the six-state plan, saying it would disproportionately burden California cities and farmers. We agree there needs to be reduced use in the Lower Basin, but that cant be done by just completely ignoring and sidestepping federal law, said Hamby. Meanwhile, political analysts are saying that getting involved in these sensitive fights may hurt Newsom if he runs for president and needs political support from neighboring basin states Nevada and Arizona. Visit WaterWars.news for more stories related to the Colorado River system. Watch the video below that talks about Lake Mead, the United States largest reservoir, 2/3 running dry. This video is from the Mercury channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: Colorado River water levels too low; major water cutbacks imminent. Unchecked demand for water from the Colorado River system threatens livelihood of locals near Green River. Colorado, Nebraska fight over 99-year-old water-sharing compact. New islands, sunken ships and lost marine equipment emerge as Mississippi River continues to dry up. Sources include: Breitbart.com New.AzWater.gov WRRC.Arizona.edu Politico.com Brighteon.com (Natural News) A new study has found that Mercks Wuhan coronavirus (COVID-19) drug molnupiravir, sold under the brand name Lagevrio, is causing new mutations of the virus in patients. But the Big Pharma company denies the accuracy of the study. The new drug-linked mutations were discovered by American and British researchers. These new variants havent been studied closely enough to figure out if they are more immune-evasive or lethal, but their very existence has highlighted what some scientists say are potential risks in the wider use of the drug the spread of even more contagious and health-threatening mutations of COVID-19. Lagevrio works by mutating the genome of SARS-CoV-2 to prevent the virus from being able to replicate within a persons body, reducing the chances it will cause severe illness. But scientists have warned from the very beginning that, by virtue of how the drug works, it could have the opposite effect and create new mutations that could easily bypass the immune protections people may have. (Related: Mercks COVID antiviral drug molnupiravir a USELESS DUD, study finds.) The researchers looked at some 13 million viral genome databases around the world. The mutations caused by Lagevrio were more commonly found in countries and regions where the drug was used, especially in the United States and Australia, where it was introduced early. But places like Canada and France, where the drug was not used, did not have the signature mutations in abundance. These effects are visible in these databases, said Theo Sanderson, a geneticist from the Francis Crick Institute in London and the leader of the study. It appears that people are being treated, some of them arent clearing their infections, and some are passing them on. Theres always been this underlying concern that it could contribute to a problem generating new variants, warned Jonathan Li, a virologist at Harvard Medical School and Brigham and Womens Hospital in Boston. This has largely been hypothetical, but this preprint validates a lot of those concerns. Expert: Youre playing with fire if youre creating random mutations Merck disputed the view that Lagevrio is causing the creation of problematic variants, with a spokesperson claiming no evidence has surfaced that any problematic mutations have spread to the public. There is no evidence to indicate that any antiviral agent has contributed to the emergence of circulating variants, wrote spokesperson Robert Josephson in an email in response to questions raised regarding the study. Based on available data, we do not believe that Lagevrio (molnupiravir) is likely to contribute to the development of new, meaningful coronavirus variants. Josephson noted that the study authors made a broad, unsubstantiated assumption that the mutations are associated with molnupiravir treatment but do not provide any direct proof that the mutations arose in patients who took Lagevrio. The spokesperson claimed that the researchers drew their conclusions from circumstantial associations between viral sequence origin and timeframe of sequence collection in countries where molnupiravir is available. Ryan Hisner, an independent researcher who helped write the study, noted that the risk of drug-linked mutations is far too great to continue using Lagevrio and the U.S. should consider discontinuing its use. Its a very distressing situation, said Michael Lin, an antiviral drug researcher from Stanford University who was consulted on the study. Theres no evidence that any of these mutants is worse in any way not yet but its well agreed that youre playing with fire if youre creating random mutations and hoping nothing bad will come of it. For more on the latest activities of Big Pharma companies, visit BigPharmaNews.com. Watch this clip from InfoWars as host Harrison Smith talks about how a top virologist believes the post-vaccine omicron variant of COVID-19 could have been created by Mercks antiviral COVID-19 pill, molnupiravir. This video is from the InfoWars channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: Mercks new COVID pill linked to virus mutations, study finds. Merck and Pfizers anti-COVID pills are just another profiteering scam to exploit COVID hysteria. Mercks new miracle COVID drug found to cause cancerous mutations in hamster experiments. Merck admits COVID pills are not nearly as effective as advertised. Merck gouges Americans by charging new federally financed COVID pill thats a rip-off of ivermectin 40 TIMES what it costs to make. Sources include: Bloomberg.com PopularMechanics.com Brighteon.com (Natural News) The New York City Police Department (NYPD) will soon use Robocop-style patrol cars with 360-degree cameras for constant monitoring and recording of everything in the immediate area, including unsuspecting civilians. During the NYPD breakfast in Midtown hosted by the New York City Police Foundation, Police Commissioner Keechant Sewell boasted that the NYPD RMP is iconic. RMP stands for radio motor patrol, a name coined decades ago and still often used for marked NYPD vehicles. The Big Apple police department, which employs more people than the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), said they are having 11,000 surveillance police vehicles that would have QR codes printed on the outside of the cars that the public can scan and connect to the NYPD website. Sewell said the new design will ensure the safety of our officers, have a QR code to improve customer service and a revamped interior for a more efficient and comfortable work environment for our officers. If and when the public finally cares about losing their privacy, all they have to do is scan a police vehicles QR code. This will bring them to a carefully worded law enforcement website that will reassure them that the government really cares about their privacy and that 360-degree surveillance cameras are for the publics safety, civil rights and privacy issues blogger Joe Cadillic said in his Substack entry. When a concerned citizen approaches a 360-degree police surveillance vehicle, they may be surprised to find out what is really happening inside. According to him, NYPDs Ford Police Interceptors come with a factory-installed version of surveillance mode or a built-in police perimeter alert, which automatically analyzes people for perceived threats. He added that the perimeter alert uses BLIS, or blind spot information system that sensors for approximately 270-degree monitoring outside of the vehicle. It features a visual display in the instrument panel cluster that shows moving objects, the motion trail and potential threat level. When potentially threatening behavior is detected, it will sound a chime, activate the rearview camera and automatically roll up the windows and lock the doors. The owners manual of the said vehicle also warns that sensor reflections from stationary objects may cause false objects to briefly appear on the police perimeter alert system display. Things like dirt, mud, snow and rain could automatically roll up a police officers windows and lock their doors, sending them into panic mode thinking they are being targeted by an unassuming citizen. Cadillic also explained that the privacy ramifications of police cars with 360-degree surveillance cameras can make everyone a suspect in the governments eyes. Moms with baby strollers, dog walkers, bike riders, pedestrians, motorists and their passengers and public transit passengers all become suspects in the eyes of Americas unchecked police surveillance state, he warned. Beverly Hills police department surveillance tech levels up On the other side of America, the high-end Los Angeles suburb Beverly Hills, home to some of the wealthiest and most renowned personalities and a globally recognized address for luxury and wealth, operates more than 2,000 security cameras one for every 16 residents, making it one of the most closely surveilled communities in the world. Moreover, Bloomberg reported that the two-mile stretch of Rodeo Drive has 29 security cameras, soon to be fitted with four additional devices that specialize in collecting photos of license plates and tracking the movement of cars. Overhead, a police-run drone program, which launched in December 2021, has grown from a pilot to a seven-day-a-week operation that can cover three-quarters of the city. The affluent community is expecting more cameras, plus automatic license plate readers to be installed in the citys parking garages and every major intersection in and out of the city, Beverly Hills Police Department Chief Mark Stainbrook said when he briefed the city council on Aug. 23. The citywide security upgrade aimed for ubiquitous coverage, according to then-assistant city manager Nancy Hunt-Coffey in August 2020, when the city approved a five-year, $14 million proposal for more cameras. Privacy and civil liberties advocates have already voiced concerns about how the surveillance data is collected and analyzed and its potential to track a persons movement over time. (Related: Atlas of Surveillance database reveals THOUSANDS of law enforcement agencies unlawfully surveilling Americans.) Hamid Khan, a member of the Stop LAPD Spying Coalition, said the growing use of the type of technology embraced by Beverly Hills PD has fundamentally legitimized the surveillance state, as well as codified the use of this technology as a daily practice, as an important part of their policing. Watch the video below that talks about police state surveillance in the United States. This video is from chriswillard777s channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: Mass genetic surveillance: Police now seeking access to newborn blood samples to build DNA database for future criminal investigations. San Fran police seek permission from city council to authorize killer robots. Spain turning into a police state: Spanish police to use automated facial recognition technology soon. Italy bans smart glasses, facial recognition tech after watchdog rebukes local government trials. Sources include: Technocracy.news News.Yahoo.com JoeCadillic.Substack.com Bloomberg.com Brighteon.com The North Dakota Geological Survey is organizing a fossil collection with more than 4,000 specimens that were excavated at a dig site near Almont from the 1980s to the early 2000s. Paleontologists also are finishing survey work to determine the possibility of a state dinosaur park in the southwest region of the state. Both projects are testament to the richness of dinosaur fossils in North Dakota, and the state's efforts to preserve the past for future generations. Pretty impressive site The paleontology program began inventorying the specimens from the Almont site in Morton County after the collection was returned in September by the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point Museum of Natural History, which was downsizing its collections. The additions more than doubled the Almont collection the state already had, according to Senior Paleontologist Clint Boyd. From the site, theres over 50 different plant species that have been recognized. A lot of which were named at that site, the first place they were known from, which makes it by far the most diverse plant fossil locality anywhere in North America, Boyd said. So its a pretty impressive site. Researchers in Wisconsin acquired the specimens during excavations that began around 1982. The researchers have since retired, which was part of the reason the specimens were returned to North Dakota. A team in Wisconsin is digitizing data such as field notes for North Dakota paleontologists, Boyd said, adding that other portions of the collection are on loan to researchers in Florida and Arizona. Those portions on loan for research will come back to the state museum. Boyd added there are a few other museums that have collections from the Almont site, but those fossils will stay at those museums. North Dakota will not be the only place with fossils from the site, but will have "an impressive collection," Boyd said. Its really an important site and being the state fossil collection, we want to have a good representative collection of all of the important fossil sites in North Dakota, he said. ... This is probably either the best collection of fossils in one place from the Almont site or like right up there with the best collection. Its nice to be that central resource then for future research and studies on it, which we should be as a state fossil collection. The Almont specimens, which date to the Paleocene Epoch or about 60 million years ago, are more scrappier pieces that will mostly be used for research rather than display, according to Boyd. However, he noted there are some really nice show pieces that will be displayed either at the state museum in Bismarck or across the state in small local museums or at travel and visitor centers. Whether real fossils or copies go on display will depend on how much security each facility has. Boyd said the Geological Survey worked with several universities in the state -- from recovering a fossil collection from Minot State University after a professor retired, to helping with inventorying and maintaining a collection at the University of North Dakota in Grand Forks. Thats one big thing on university campuses is right now, space is at a premium. And so if it ever gets to the point where theyre like, We need this space for staff rather than big cabinets of fossils, its already set up to where it could come here if it needed to, Boyd said. The Geological Surveys partnerships with smaller museums, such as the Pioneer Trails Regional Museum in Bowman, is another service it provides. That also maintains a backup option in case issues arise such as a lack of funding to maintain fossil collections, or if certain exhibits need a temporary holding place, according to Boyd. Thats one of the reasons why its good to have a central repository that has the capacity to take this stuff, and so that we dont end up in a situation where a museum closes and they cant find a place to take it and all this stuff ends up in a dumpster or something like that -- which nobody wants," Boyd said. "Weve done that with a few collections now. This is, I think, our largest collection so far that weve done that with. Dinosaur park Paleontologists have eight spots left to survey -- out of 21 selected areas -- on state trust lands that contain outcrops of the Hell Creek Formation, known for its Tyrannosaurus rex and triceratops fossils. The area includes everything in the southwest corner from Bowman and Slope counties all the way to the Missouri River in Grant and Morton counties. Boyd said that through mapping, a team of researchers has identified some areas where a potential dinosaur park could go. The team received permits from the state Land Department to be able to do a walking survey and identify any fossil sites. The thought is that you want people to be able to see fossils in the ground, but wed also like it to be a place where we could do our public fossil dig program So thered be active digs there at the same time, which means that you cant have one or two fossils. Youve got to have a nice producing layer of fossils -- that gets really hard to find, Boyd said. The findings of those surveys will first be presented in a report to the state Industrial Commission, which will then determine the feasibility of the potential project. Then the proposal will be presented to county commissioners and local House and Senate representatives of those areas. The whole surface of North Dakota can give you fossils anywhere, which is really unique about this state, Boyd said. And so it would be great to have a place that was set up tourismwise specifically to acknowledge that fossil record we have here in North Dakota. The idea of a state dinosaur park grew out of a meeting with Gov. Doug Burgum, who had mentioned there are surrounding states that have state fossil parks, Boyd said, adding that theres never been a push to have a state park in North Dakota. Paleontologists have been surveying the land the past two summers and ranking sites by how far away they are from public roadways and how much additional infrastructure would be needed for public access. Its been a long slow process, but its been productive, he said. Weve found over a hundred new fossil sites so far. So if nothing else, weve proven that these sites in certain areas are productive, and weve collected a lot of fossils and brought them back to the state fossil collection. The team of researchers has requested a permit for three areas to do some digging to evaluate how many fossils are in the ground and how well-preserved they are, Boyd said, adding that it's possible more permit requests will be filed after those final eight areas are surveyed. One of the three areas that has a permit request filed will be revisited this summer for a second round of exploration since it showed good results in 2022. "If we identify multiple areas that have the potential for a state dinosaur park, then our final report will include all those areas," Boyd said. "If we find only one, then well focus on that place. If in the end we determine that none of the areas would be feasible for a state dinosaur park, then that is what we will report. Our goal right now is to explore options and report on the results." The Industrial Commission will then decide if the idea moves forward "All of this is in very early stages, and so if we find a suitable location and if a decision is made to move forward with a state dinosaur park, a funding plan will have to be put together at that time," Boyd said. "It could be state funds, private donations or a combination. Also, if it is decided that the park would be a protected area set aside for research with no on-site facilities, funding may not even need to be addressed." (Natural News) Many Americans are leaving crime-ridden, high-cost and unstable cities like New York and Chicago for low-tax, more affordable states like Florida and Texas. Despite the calls of many employers for their workers to begin returning to the office, people still arent moving to big city centers like they used to. In fact, in many major cities in the United States, especially those located in Democrat-controlled states, more people are moving out. (Related: Over a million Americans have fled blue states due to high rates of crime, taxes and economic regulation.) This comes from a report by the National Association of Realtors (NAR), which found that more people were leaving certain major metro areas. Pre-pandemic, we had a different trend. People wanted to move to big city centers, noted Nadia Evangelou, senior economist and director of real estate research at the NAR. Philadelphia, Chicago, San Francisco, Detroit, New York City and Seattle had move-in rates of below 50 percent, meaning that more people moved out than moved in. Philadelphia was closest to 50 percent, with a 49.8 percent move-in rate. The City of Brotherly Love is followed closely by Chicago and San Francisco, which had move-in rates of 49.5 percent in 2022. They are followed closely by Detroit and New York City, with 49.4 percent move-in rates and then Seattle with a move-in rate of 47.9 percent. Cities in Florida, Texas, experiencing large influx of new people By contrast, more people are moving into metro areas located in Texas and Florida. Houston experienced the highest move-in rate for 2022 according to the NARs report, with 55.7 percent of moves in the city composed of people moving in. The city is followed by Miami at 55.2 percent. Furthermore, the Miami metro area experienced the largest inbound increase from before the pandemic, seeing gains of nearly 60 percent in 2022 compared to 2019. Pauline Cachero, writing for Bloomberg, noted people have been leaving states like California, Illinois, Michigan, New York and Pennsylvania for years for Sun Belt states like Florida and Texas in search of larger houses, better weather, lower taxes and lower cost of living. The trend picked up steam during the pandemic and continued through last year, even as offices in major cities reopened and bosses started calling employees back, she wrote. While she noted that a lot of Americans did move back into cities when economic restrictions started getting rolled back and life started returning to these major urban areas, many other city dwellers were turned off by a variety of factors, most importantly the high cost of living. The ballooning sticker price for everything from rent to food is no longer worth the costs, forcing a higher share of the population to depart, wrote Cachero. Evangelou agreed, saying: While affordability hit record lows in 2022, it is the primary reason that people continue to relocate from these big city centers to less dense and more affordable areas. Watch this clip from Next News Network discussing how experienced police officers are leaving liberal cities to go where they are appreciated, causing crime in their former homes to go up even higher. This video is from the News Clips channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: PLEASE LEAVE: Japan to pay families 1 million yen per child to move out of Tokyo. Big cities continue to see MASS EXODUS amid skyrocketing inflation and rising interest rates. POLL: San Francisco residents most likely to move to different city due to high crime rate and homelessness. Americans divvying up the United States as the mass exodus from liberal states continues time to stop trying to unite with baby-killing, soft on crime liberals. New Yorkers leaving for Florida due to surging crime rates and high taxes. Sources include: DailyMail.co.uk Bloomberg.com Axios.com Brighteon.com (Natural News) Project Veritas has released another shocking new segment of undercover footage featuring Pfizer director Jordon Trishton Walker discussing the fact that his companys covid vaccines negatively affect womens reproductive health. There is something irregular about the menstrual cycles, Walker tells the undercover reporter, whom he believed he was on a date with, in the latest clip. So, people will have to investigate that down the line. The [covid] vaccine shouldnt be interfering with that [menstrual cycles]. So, we dont really know. Walker further admits in the newest segment that messenger RNA (mRNA) chemicals must be affecting something hormonal to impact menstrual cycles, adding that somehow this mRNA lingers in the body, and like I hope we dont discover something really bad down the line. If something were to happen downstream and it was, like, really bad? I mean, the scale of that scandal would be enormous, Walker proceeds to state. (Related: Evidence has emerged to suggest that Walker is a Boston Consulting Group [BCG] plant who was placed at Pfizer to push the governments jab and outbreak quotas.) Watch the clip below: BREAKING: @Pfizer Director Concerned Over Womens Reproductive Heath After COVID-19 Vaccinations There is something irregular about their menstrual cyclesconcerningThe vaccine shouldnt be interfering with thatIt has to be affecting something hormonal#Pfertility pic.twitter.com/XAuMPJNShD Project Veritas (@Project_Veritas) February 2, 2023 Pfizers negligence and criminality are so expansive that its hard to even comprehend the scope of it all The traction these revelations continue to gain suggests that Pfizers days are numbered. The general public is really starting to question the safety and effectiveness of this companys products, including not only covid injections but other drug products as well. Every news outlet and public health official assured us there was no possible chance of the jab impacting pregnancy or fertility, noted a commenter on a story about Walkers latest-released admissions to Project Veritas. Yet they made those statements with zero evidence. How could they possibly know, as the trials didnt even last 9 months? The negligence and criminality are so large that its hard to even comprehend the scope of it all. When Operation Warp Speed was first launched in late-2020, few were asking questions about the safety and effectiveness of all the covid injections that were unleashed at the time. Now, Pfizer, at least, is center stage for scrutiny and investigation. When the average person begins to wonder, how did they manufacture billions of doses in the span of just a few months for a new virus? it will be game over, another commenter suggested. It would seem as though we are almost at this point as the new #Pfertility hashtag gains popularity across social media. Almost every news item about Pfizer these days exposes the company as a sham, which is changing the minds of millions concerning the untrustworthiness of Big Pharma. The pandemic simulation that occurred prior to covid specifically noted that two years after the rushed vaccine, the world would wake up to its dangers and lose faith in government and institutions causing widespread chaos, another commenter suggested about this all being scripted. The globalists have planned for this awakening and will be there to quell any and all dissent. Another wrote that the admissions Walker made to his date prove that Pfizer knew all along that its covid injections were deadly. This was probably the entire point of them right from the beginning. This is why they wanted everyone to take it, this person added. Depopulation is a feature, not a bug. The latest news about dangerous and ineffective covid injections can be found at ChemicalViolence.com. Sources for this article include: ZeroHedge.com NaturalNews.com (Natural News) Emilly Santos, a student at Princeton University in New Jersey, is complaining about a new zero-tolerance policy for cheating at her school, which she says is unfair to minorities presumably because they cheat more than the majorities. Princetons Undergraduate Honor Code, Santos wrote in an opinion piece for her schools newspaper, which is tasked with holding students accountable and honest in academic settings, mirrors the criminal justice system in its rules and effects. Brown and black people, Santos suggested in her op-ed, tend to cheat more than lighter-skinned people. As a result, they become unfair targets of what she implies is another system of oppression. It is harmful to the entirety of the Princeton community: the fear it instills in students fosters an environment of academic hostility, Santos wrote. But it is often most damaging for first-generation low-income (FLI) students students who also often belong to racial minorities. The consequences for violating Princetons Honor Code include being reprimanded, suspended, place on probation, or expelled. Violations include tampering with a graded exam, claiming anothers work to be ones own, and obtaining exam materials before test dates. (Related: In 2018, a Princeton Gender and Sexuality Studies researcher declared science to be racist and gendered because too many men, in her opinion, pursue the field.) Having to face punishment for cheating is too similar to the criminal justice system, so Santos wants the rules abolished Since minorities tend to do these things the most, in Santos estimate, they face disproportionate punishment compared to lighter-skinned students who obey the rules and thus do not face any punishment. FLI students, like many students, are often afraid of disappointing family and friends, Santos op-ed further reads. A lack of community support in these situations also puts FLI students at a disadvantage compared to their wealthier peers, whose communities often include people who are college-educated and have been exposed to academic integrity systems similar to Princetons Honor Code, and may understand the process better. In order to create a more equitable society, Santos believes that Princeton needs to have its Honor Code dismantled. This would allow for brown and black students to cheat all they want without consequence, creating equity. Even though Princeton allows students accused of violating its Honor Code to appeal the Honor Committees decisions for consequences, Santos believes that this process is also racist because of its mimicking processes of questioning, evidence gathering [and] witness depositions. Such a process is inherent to the criminal justice system, and Santos believes that forcing a minority student who cheated to undergo it is similar to how a criminal record haunts previous convicts. Princeton, as an institution that aims to educate world leaders and brands itself with social justice discourse, must first address the existing parallels between the [criminal justice system] and these smaller-scale systems we subscribe to, Santos wrote. Specifically, we must re-examine the role of the Honor Code and Honor Committee in our community. The University should lead by example by dismantling the Honor Code system, which acts as a barrier to social mobility and a more equitable society. Only once such internal injustices are addressed can we make real-world changes. In the comments, someone added to the conversation that Santos is clearly stating with her op-ed that minorities are disproportionately cheaters and criminals, which in and of itself is racist. This should de-legitimize them greatly, should they adopt this policy, wrote another about what will become of Princeton if it listens to the likes of Santos in creating new policies. The university system is dead. More related news can be found at EducationSystem.news. Sources for this article include: ZeroHedge.com NaturalNews.com (Natural News) Few Americans understand that their society has been revolutionized. America is no longer what it was. Wherever you look everything has been overthrown. I will illustrate it with three articles from the City Journal, published by the Manhattan Institute. Two are by Heather Mac Donald and one is by John O. McGinnis. Heather Mac Donald explains what has happened to museums (Winter 2022) and to the medical profession (Summer 2022). John McGinnis (Spring 2022) explains what has happened to the legal profession. Both writers are good at their task and have done their homework. My account is a poor second to reading their articles. (Article republished from PaulCraigRoberts.org) Museums are custodians of a cultures history and art. As the United States was settled by white ethnicities from Great Britain, Ireland, and Europe, the history and art in museums reflect the culture of white people. The problem is that a half century of nonwhite immigration has racially diversified and multiculturalized the US into a Tower of Babel, and the Eurocentric tradition did not take into account racial equity. In short, the collections are white and white is racist. Heather Mac Donalds example of what is happening to museums is the Art Institute of Chicago. The institutes director, James Rondeau, is embarrassed by the whiteness and is committed to turning the museum into an antiracist vehicle. As only whites are racists, that means the museum is to be an anti-white vehicle. Rondeau began by firing the 82 white docents, the volunteers who conducted tours and explained the art to school groups. The reasoning is that white voices cant communicate to persons of color. Heather Mac Donald notes that no one would dare suggest that a black person cant teach white students, but it is unobjectionable to say the opposite. As the museums holdings are white art, which according to anti-racists perpetuates white power, what is their value to anti-racist museum directors? Heather Mac Donald is concerned that the final result, if unchecked, will be the cancellation of a civilization. John McGinnis writes that the law profession has been turned into a radical progressive force for change and that this transformation of the legal profession marks a fundamental change in American democracy. The American Bar Association, once a defender against the passions of the hour, is today a leftwing powerhouse that uses its influence in the accreditation process of law schools to make them even more monolithically left-wing than they already are. No longer committed to supporting the established order but to undermining and transforming it, law schools have turned their backs to the Constitutions requirement of equal treatment under the law. Racial preferences for student admissions based on skin color are already institutionalized. De facto, if not mandated, racial and gender preferences in faculty hiring are essentially in place. Ideological preferences in hiring seem clearly present as conservatives in law schools are becoming extinct. New requirements for law schools amount to institutionalizing dogma and requiring instruction, such as critical race theory, on subjects that are unrelated to any distinctive legal skill. So you will go to law school to learn how to be an anti-racist. This suggests that the future of law will turn on sentiment or emotion. Heather Mac Donald explains that the American Medical Association is also an enforcer of racial preferences. She writes that Medical education, medical research, and standards of competence have been upended by two related hypotheses: that systemic racism is responsible both for racial disparities in the demographics of the medical profession and for racial disparities in health outcomes. Questioning those hypotheses is professionally suicidal. Vast sums of public and private research funding are being redirected from basic science to political projects aimed at dismantling white supremacy. The result will be declining quality of medical care and a curtailment of scientific progress. As the assumption of the American Medical Association is that there are no differences in the capabilities and intelligence of the races, all differences in representation and performance are due to racism. Merit-based systems are tools of white oppression and stand in the way of racial equity and racial justice. In the repositories of our culture whiteness is under attack. In the legal profession whiteness is under attack. In the medical profession whiteness is under attack. Where is whiteness not under attack? Notice also that it is whites who are attacking whiteness. Heather Mac Donalds phrase, the cancellation of a civilization is well underway. Read more at: PaulCraigRoberts.org (Natural News) The United States and the North Atlantic Treaty Organization are using a discredited Cold War-era political theory to justify sending Ukraine even more weapons. The domino theory is the Cold War theory that justified further participation in the Vietnam War, claiming that if the North Vietnamese are not stopped, their communist ideology would spread to the rest of the region. Author and business consultant Gerald Celente, during a conversation with Judge Andrew Napolitano, noted that Republican Sen. Lindsey Graham of South Carolina used the domino theory in a statement wherein he claimed that a Russian victory in Ukraine would embolden other American adversarial states. When asked if the Republican Party-controlled House of Representatives would support Ukraine, Graham said: The Republican Party, in my view, will not abandon Ukraine, who is trying to expel a Russian invasion that, if it were successful, would turn the world order upside down. Graham added that Speaker Kevin McCarthy wont be writing blank checks for Ukraine, but will provide Kyiv with what it needs for the war effort. Im asking for military aid to accomplish the purpose of driving Russian invaders out of Ukraine, he said. If Putin gets away with this, there goes Taiwan. If Putins successful in Ukraine and is not prosecuted under international law, everything we said since World War II becomes a joke. Celente and Napolitano remarked that todays politicians are using the same rhetoric past politicians used to increase support for the Vietnam War. Theyre selling the domino theory again, and the people keep buying it, said Celente. Domino theory rhetoric only benefits the military-industrial complex Napolitano pointed out how the only sector of American society that benefits from the domino theory being used in political speeches is the military-industrial complex. The domino theory is what induces the United States to send military equipment from our substance, not from our surplus, he said. We have no surplus any more thanks to Ukraine, and that causes the military-industrial complex over here to supply the military with more equipment. (Related: Defense Department to boost production of artillery ammunition by 500% for Ukraine but will take two years just to build the new factories.) On top of the M1 Abrams main battle tanks that the U.S. is already in the process of sending to Ukraine, the country is readying an additional shipment of over $2 billion worth of military aid. Over $400 million worth of aid will come from Presidential Drawdown Authority funds, which allows President Joe Biden to take materiel from current American military stocks. The rest will come from a fund known as the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative, which allows the White House to get weapons by dealing directly with the military-industrial complex. This latest arms shipment is expected to include, for the first time, long-range munitions like the Ground Launched Small Diameter Bomb, which has a range of nearly 100 miles. The shipment is also expected to include support equipment Patriot air defense systems, precision-guided munitions, Javelin anti-tank weapons, counter-drone systems, counter artillery equipment, air surveillance radars and other munitions and arms. For more news about Ukraine and the arrival of new arms shipments, visit UkraineWitness.com. Watch this video with Gerald Celente and Judge Andrew Napolitano discussing the latest developments in Ukraine, including the ill-advised use of the domino theory to justify further arms shipments. This video is from the channel What Is Happening on Brighteon.com. More related stories: NATO claims Russia is preparing 200,000 troops for MASSIVE new attack on Ukraine. Doomsday Clock now set at 90 seconds to midnight the closest the world has ever been to nuclear annihilation. German intelligence agency: Ukraine losing HUNDREDS of soldiers daily the situation is not sustainable. NATO members are running out of weapons that they can send to Ukraine. Ukraines defense minister claims his country is a de facto member of NATO. Sources include: Brighteon.com Politico.com AlJazeera.com (Natural News) The firm ElevenLabs, maker of the Prime Voice artificial intelligence voice cloner, is currently under fire as trolls have flooded social media with audio deep fakes, featuring celebrity voices making racist statements and calling for violence using its tool. The startup, which released earlier this month the tool that allows people to upload recordings of anyone speaking and use this to generate an artificial voice, will introduce additional safeguards following the misuse, reports said. Found on the image-based bulletin board website 4chan, internet trolls used the said AI tool to make renowned personalities say offensive things. Among the celebrities whose voices have been deep faked were David Attenborough and Harry Potter star Emma Watson. Attenboroughs voice was used to create a sweary rant about his career in the Navy Seals while Watsons was used to read passages from the book Mein Kampf, an autobiographical manifesto by Nazi Party leader Adolf Hitler. In one audio example, the fake voice of Joe Biden was used to announce the invasion of Russia. Other well-known people whose voices were faked were Joe Rogan, James Cameron and Tom Cruise as well as a range of fictional characters reading racist and misogynist hate speech. Crazy weekend thank you to everyone for trying out our Beta platform. While we see our tech being overwhelmingly applied to positive use, we also see an increasing number of voice cloning misuse cases. We want to reach out to the Twitter community for thoughts and feedback! The company tweeted and replied to the same thread with: While we can trace back any generated audio back to the user, wed like to address this by implementing additional safeguards. The firms current plan of action includes additional account verifications to enable voice cloning, such as payment info or even full ID verification; verifying copyright to the voice by submitting a sample with prompt text; and drop voice lab altogether and manually verify each cloning request. At the moment, the tool is still in the same state as the company aims to give people access to compelling, rich and lifelike voices for storytelling. Despite the controversy, the tool has been described by some as the most realistic AI text-to-voice platform seen. ElevenLabs was founded by Mati Staniszewski, an ex-Palantir deployment strategist, and Piotr Dabkowski, an ex-Google machine learning engineer. The two also created voice cloning and dubbing abilities for film and publishing industries. They declared they received funding of 1.6 million ($1.93 million). Microsoft: Voice cloning tools can be used by cybercriminals for scamming and fraudulent purposes Earlier in the year, another artificial intelligence advancement from Big Tech company Microsoft was introduced to the market. The program, called VALL-E, designed for text-to-speech synthesis, can clone the voice after hearing a person speak for a mere three seconds. According to PCMags Michael Kan, a team of the tech giants researchers created the technology by having the system listen to 60,000 hours of English audiobook narration from over 7,000 different speakers to get it to reproduce human-sounding speech. This sample is hundreds of times larger than what other text-to-speech programs have been built on. According to the makers, the AI-powered program can manipulate the cloned voice to say whatever is desired and replicate emotion in a persons voice or be configured into different speaking styles. (Related: Google worshipers applaud their own total enslavement as Google AI unveils near-perfect human voice mimicry tech.) Since VALL-E could synthesize speech that maintains speaker identity, it may carry potential risks in misuse of the model, such as spoofing voice identification or impersonating a specific speaker, the Microsoft researchers wrote in their paper. The technology, while impressive, would make it easy for cybercriminals to clone peoples voices for scam and identity fraud purposes, Kan commented, adding that its actually not hard to imagine the same technology fueling cybercrime when even the inventor of the technology acknowledges potential threats. Visit FutureTech.news for more news related to artificial intelligence-powered platforms. Watch the video below that talks about how ElevenLabs AI system cloned Health Ranger Mike Adams voice. This video is from the Health Ranger Report channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: Voice assistants Siri and Alexa creating RUDE, ANTISOCIAL children. Google suspends engineer for exposing sentient AI chatbot. WEFs Global intelligence collecting AI to erase ideas from the internet. Google veterans to launch drones with most advanced AI ever. Sources include: DailyStar.co.uk Express.co.uk Twitter.com PCMag.com Brighteon.com A polar vortex will bring the winter season's coldest air in the Northeast this coming weekend, according to weather forecasts. Intense cold air and below-average temperatures are expected across the US, especially the Northeast and its adjacent regions. Polar Vortex Strikes US AccuWeather stated the polar vortex has maintained frigid air suspended above the Arctic Circle for most of the winter, where it remains strong and prevents frigid air from escaping the Arctic. In this context, meteorologists have attributed the polar vortex to be driving behind the recent winter weather events that we have witnessed this year. AccuWeather forecasters say the Arctic air sweeps in a southeastward direction across the region on Friday, February 3, where temperatures could fall in some locations. Also Read: Powerful Polar Vortex Closes Biggest Ozone Hole in the North Pole What is the Polar Vortex? The polar vortex is a natural phenomenon characterized as a large area of low pressure system and cold air mass surrounding both of the Earth's poles. It always exists in the northern and southern poles, where it weakens during the summer season and strengthens during the winter, according to the National Weather Service (NWS). The term "vortex" pertains to the counter-clockwise movement of air that helps retain colder air near the Poles. There are many instances in the northern hemisphere during winter that the storm expands, sending cold air in a southward direction along with the jet stream, says the NWS. The US weather agency explains that the existence of polar vortexes is not something new. However, the term "polar vortex" has only been popularized recently by weather forecasts, bringing attention to the ever-existing weather feature. Weather forecasters examine the polar vortex by observing atmospheric conditions thousands of feet in the sky. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), a stable polar vortex is where cold air is contained in the pole, while a disrupted polar vortex forces its cold air to move south. The polar vortex term first appeared in an 1853 issue of Eliakim Little's Living Age, a magazine consisting different selections from British and American magazines and newspapers. Weather Polar Vortex Although polar vortex is related to weather, which is the condition of the atmosphere based on hotness or coldness, wetness or dryness, and among others, it is not part of a meteorologist's daily forecast. This means that polar vortexes are long-term weather phenomenon but does not come and go like weather events such as storms, hurricanes, tornadoes, severe thunderstorms, and heatwaves. According to the Met Office, the UK's national weather service, the polar vortex is a circulation of winds located high up in the atmospheric layer called the stratosphere, reaching up to 50 kilometers (30 miles) above the Earth. In addition, scientists have known about the old phenomenon for many years. The polar vortex winds regularly exceed 250 kilometers per hour (155 miles per hour), the strength of hurricane force winds possessed by the strongest hurricanes known as Category 5. These winds can strengthen and weaken during the winter, influencing lower parts of the atmosphere and ultimately our weather, the UK weather agency explains. Related Article: Polar Vortex 2021: Frostbite Every Half Hour in all US States Possibly Coming Next Week Rhinos may look formidable, but their species have declined due to continuous poaching in Nambia and South Africa. Rhinos, mainly the black rhinos, have dealt with population declines due to threats of illegal trade, poaching, habitat loss and infrastructure development. The population of rhinos is critically endangered. Without immediate actions and protection efforts, it would lead to sudden extinction. The economic and political issues in places where Rhinos thrive make it more difficult for conservation efforts. However, there is much optimism and hope that their species can be saved. The plight of rhinos under threats of poaching According to the International Rhino Foundation, South Africa is considered for almost the black rhino population. The report noted an estimated 15,000 black rhinos: 2,056 black and 12,968 white species. The International Rhino Foundation added that poaching activities in South Africa showed a dramatic increase. The report said that about 259 rhino poaching activities were recorded in 2022. In Nambia, the latest BBC news reported that the number of rhino poaching activities in Nambia had the highest record last year. The report raised concerns over the number of killed rhinos in the latest record, reaching 87. Being gigantic, rhinos are still targets of illegal activities due to the high demand for their rare horns. It is still an expensive commodity and collection. According to a BBC report, the Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism explained the concerning state of the rhinos' population. The report said that 26 white rhinos and 61 black were killed. On the other hand, the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) explained that poaching is considered the deadliest threat to the population of critically endangered rhinos. Also Read: West African Chimpanzees Arrival at Chester Zoo in UK Gives Hopes for Rare Animal Conservation and Protection The report noted that political instability and abject poverty have resulted in relentless poaching activities threatening the rhinos' population. WWF said that waves of poaching activities were noted in Kenya, Tanzania, the Zambezi River and Lunagwa Valley. Did you know? More about Rhinos According to WWF, the Rhino population (Diceros bicornis) is said to be one of the oldest groups of mammals. In Nambia, the emergence of rhinos is an essential source of ecotourism. The report said that rhinos' habitats are forests, woodlands and semi-desert Savannah. Furthermore, Save The Rhino International explained that the black and white rhinos have the same grey color! Unlike other animals, Rhinos are considered herbivores. They are also said to be the second largest mammal, next to the elephants. Also Read: Gray Wolf Population in Michigan Continues Trend of Stability, New Report Shows They are strong animals and love to bond with their herd or group. With the growing concerns over rhino threats, conservation and protection efforts are crucial to their species' survival. The cooperation of conservationists, communities, and countries is vital to prevent poaching activities and save them from possible extinction. Stricter conservation zones would be significant. Related Article: Madagascar Unique Plants, Animals Suffer from Habitat Loss and Climate Change; Researchers Discovered that 23 Million Years of Evolution Needed To Recover For more similar, don't forget to follow Nature World News. San Diego beach water and waves suddenly became pink. A recent report said the event was considered environmentally safe for the water and aquatic animals. The color of the water may change depending on situations, including flooding or the presence of algae. However, the change of water color in San Diego Beach is an action of science to help researchers study the fresh water and ocean water in the area. Suddenly becomes pink the waves in San Diego Beach According to The Weather Network, researchers looked into the ocean to determine the pollutants and larvae and how it affects the ocean water. The study occurs every January and February. Meanwhile, USA Today explained that the pink waves and water there are only temporary in Torrey Pines State Beach for research and experiment. The research would become helpful in looking into breaking waves, water temperatures, salinity and possible pollution. The USA Today reported that the project is called Plumes in Nearshore Conditions or PiNC, studying the estuary of Los Penasquitos Lagoon. According to the report, the researchers aimed to quantify the plumes that freshwater managed to interact with. The process is considered non-toxic and not harmful to the environment. When the researchers unleashed the pink dye, it would be noticeable for about three to six hours. Based on USA Today's report, postdoctoral scholar Alex Simpson explained that they would use an advanced sensor to detect the effect. Meanwhile, the study's lead Sarah Giddings, explained that the research would help decision-makers to close beaches due to heavy rainfall or severe weather events. Why water changes in color People might have seen that water changes in color. It might be a natural event, pollution or the art of science. Changes in water color can be associated with algae bloom, which could become toxic and harmful to the environment. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), algae can thrive in all water systems. CDC explained that overpopulation of algae in bodies of water could impact the ecosystems of animals and the environment. Also Read: Heavy Rain and Flooding Unlikely to Achieve Big Impact on Prolonged Drought in California The report added that algae bloom due to phytoplankton is harmful to marine life, adding to the concerns of toxins. Meanwhile, algae bloom can also lead to a public health concern affecting human health. Pink lakes in Australia In Western Australia, ABC News reported that pink color lakes are famous. Lake Hillier shows the majestic pink color lakes that attract visitors. The said lake has maintained the pink color for centuries, unlike other lakes that become pink for research purposes. According to ABC News, pink water in lakes can be associated with the presence of Dunaliella salina. Further research showed the emergence of a bacterium called Salinibacter ruber. Both algae help to unleash the pink color. The pink lakes in Australia have been unique and rare. Continuous studies are conducted to determine the reason behind the color and maintain its pink color. Did you know? In Australia, there is also a lake called Pink Lake. Related Article: 24 Trillion Gallons of Water Unloaded in California Due to Weeks of Relentless Storms For more similar stories, don't forget to follow Nature News. After spending tens of thousands of years submerged in blue ice, a meteorite, a cosmic cannonball weighing 17 pounds, was discovered in Antarctica. One of the heaviest meteorites ever found, in addition to four other frozen space rocks that most likely collided with the icy continent thousands of years ago, was recently retrieved by scientists in Antarctica. Cosmic Cannon Ball The mini hoard of meteorites was discovered by researchers on the Nils Larsen blue ice zone's surface close to the Princess Elisabeth Antarctica station, which is owned by Belgium. The most notable of the five meteorites was a huge, cantaloupe-sized rock that weighed 16.7 pounds. Only about 100 of the 45,000 meteorites found in Antarctica were as massive as this cosmic cannonball. Maria Valdes, one of the scientists that participated in the expedition, said that when it comes to meteorites, size doesn't always matter, and even tiny micrometeorites could be incredibly useful for science. Valdes, who is also a Field Museum meteorologist in Chicago, still thinks that it is exciting and rare to discover a large meteorite like this one. Thousands of Years in Blue Ice Early in January, the meteorites were discovered on the ice's surface; however, they had not recently collided with Earth. Instead, it is more likely that the space rocks were submerged in the blue ice for thousands of years before coming to the surface due to the glaciers' churning motion. However, the researchers found that the meteorites were still entirely intact because they were protected from precipitation, wind, and air beneath the ice. Ryoga Maeda, also an expedition scientist, told The Brussels Times that the asteroids, which are from the asteroid belt between Mars and Jupiter's orbit, are thought to have fallen into the Antarctic blue ice many tens of thousands of years ago. Maeda is a doctoral student at the Free University of Brussels. Also Read: Two Extraterrestrial Minerals Found in 2020 Meteorite Might Solve Mysteries of Solar System Meteorites in Antarctica Normally, searching the ice sheets for meteorites is necessary for scientists. However, a previous study allowed the researchers to focus their search. By using satellite data as well as a type of artificial intelligence known as machine learning, a paper that identified regions of Antarctica where meteorite clusters had higher chances of being brought to the surface was completed and published in 2022, in the journal Science Advances. The newly discovered meteorites were found in one of those hotspots. However, even with a specific area to look for them, it still required a lot of effort to find the meteorites. Vinciane Debaille, the lead expedition scientist, said that the beauty of satellite images is very different when compared to the difficulty of the real world. Debaille is a geochemist at the Free University of Brussels. For their own research, each expedition scientist was able to bring back samples of potential meteorite dust that they had collected from the area around the space rocks that had fallen, according to the statement. The meteorite samples gathered during the expedition have been sent to the Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences in Brussels for proper thawing and analysis. The expedition is the first to investigate one of the satellite study's identified potential hotspots for meteorites. The success of the expedition team suggests that other researchers may be able to recover many more frozen meteor fragments using the study. In the study, researchers predicted that up to 300,000 meteorites might be waiting on the ice's surface, meaning that only about 15% have been found so far. The expedition team is hoping to find more meteorites to help us understand our cosmic surroundings, Live Science reports. Related Article: Scientists Find Extra-Terrestrial Water Inside Winchcombe Meteorite That Crashed in UK Last Year While the salary increases being requested by the states judges and Supreme Court justices may seem high, the Tribune editorial board believes they are reasonable, needed and overdue. The judicial branch has asked for a 20% increase in July of this year and 15% in July 2024. At present, the judges and justices rank 40th and 41st in the nation for salaries. The Tribune believes the state can and should do better than that. Sitting on the bench isnt a cushy job. North Dakota doesnt have specialty courts, so district courts handle everything from traffic tickets to major civil lawsuits, divorces, murder cases and everything in between. District judges lack support staff, often just relying on a court recorder. Some judges have used University of North Dakota law students who work as unpaid interns for the experience. The Supreme Court gets between 400 and 500 filings each year, considers 300-400 cases and renders decisions on 250-300 cases each term, according to Justice Daniel Crothers. Thats a heavy workload considering some of the cases are very complex. Its not just the complexity of some of the cases judges and justices handle; other cases reflect the worst of society including murders. There are emotional cases such as child custody disputes. Sitting on the bench means assuming a lot of responsibility. Judges and justices also isolate themselves to a certain extent by not socializing with attorneys and others who might come before them in court. Its true that when someone is appointed or elected to the court they know the salary going in. They willingly make the monetary sacrifice. The problem is that many practicing attorneys dont want to give up successful private practices to join the court at the present salary level. In recent years the state has been increasingly drawing from a pool of candidates that consists mostly of prosecutors and public defenders. Crothers told the Tribune editorial board that the state has good judges and justices, but attorneys from private practice bring a wide range of experience to the judicial branch. They need to be in the mix of candidates. Judges and justices didnt receive raises in 2017 and 2018 when the state was tightening its belt. Under the request for raises, the salary of a district judge would go from $155,219 annually to $214,202 in July 2024. Presiding judges would go from $159,629 to $220,288, and Supreme Court justices would go from $169,162 to $233,444. The chief justice salary would increase from $173,946 to $240,045. Gov. Doug Burgum this week appointed a new information technology chief, a Cabinet-level position, at a salary of $238,000. Its an important position in this technological age, but should it pay more than most justices? The Tribune believes the Legislature should approve the salary adjustments. Lawmakers need to follow the requests. Giving 5% or 10% raises wont bring much relief and wont make judicial positions more attractive to future candidates. Judges and justices deserve decent pay for the work they do. , ", , , . . Have you watched "Gunther's Millions," the docuseries on Netflix about the dog who inherited millions when his owner, German Countess named Karlotta Leibenstein, died? It starts kind of silly (a dog who's a millionaire, ha ha, so funny and weird!) and then quickly devolves into I don't even know what. At each turn the story gets more bizarre, so much so that I had to stop and search the web to see if the whole thing was satire. Turns out, it's not exactly satire, and it's not exactly true. Emily Burack at Town and Country recently wrote a terrific piece that recounts the real story. She explains: The entire story is a tale created by Maurizio Mian, a scion of Istituto Gentili, an Italian pharmaceutical company that was purchased by Merck. "The dog's role appears to be little more than a joke that's carried on for decades," the Associated Press reported in 2021, "and there is no evidence of a German countess." In 1995, Mian told an Italian newspaper that the countess "was just an invention to publicize the philosophy" of his foundation. And what's this foundation? What's the philosophy? You'll have to watch the show to get the full explanation, but it has something to do with the study of pleasure and happiness. I'll leave it at that. The One Earth Energy plant in Gibson City. The company has bought 103 additional acres and is asking for the city of Gibson City to annex the property into the city limits. Attorney Paul Wilson, representing Terry Workman, seated beside him, addresses Judge Benjamin Dyer during a hearing Thursday about whether a question offering Rantoul voters the choice of returning to an at-large form of selecting village trustees should remain on the April 4 ballot. At right is attorney Keri-Lyn Krafthefer, representing Wendell Golston, seated beside her, and Jack Anderson (not pictured). Download Now The News-Gazette mobile app brings you the latest local breaking news, updates, and more. Read the News-Gazette on your mobile device just as it appears in print. These are busy times for Moog Inc. The manufacturer is planning a $77 million project to add a new building to its Elma campus, as it gears up for increased production. "It's reflecting the strength of the business and its growth in future years," said Patrick Roche, who took the reins as Moog's president and CEO this week. The planned building will house "advanced manufacturing capabilities that we are developing," Roche said. "We're both developing our skills and adding our capacity to the facility here." Moog needs more production space with more work on the way in its aircraft controls and space and defense controls businesses. The project is the first of what could be three new buildings at the campus, a hub of manufacturing in the Buffalo Niagara region. A big project on the horizon involves supporting production of a next-generation helicopter for the Army. Moog was part of the Bell Textron team whose bid was chosen over Lockheed Martin's. Lockheed Martin has filed a protest, and the Government Accountability Office has until April 7 to issue a decision. "We are expecting that that will be favorable for Textron, but at the moment we are in a hold while we await the outcome of that protest," Roche said. Moog on Friday reported net income of $46 million in the first quarter of its fiscal year, essentially unchanged from a year ago. Sales rose for each of its three business groups. Moog's aircraft controls sales business benefited from stronger commercial aftermarket sales, driven by an upswing in air travel. "As we've had the recovery of flights, the airlines have really increased the usage of the widebody the 787 and A350 because they're fuel-efficient airplanes, so we've seen that the flight hours of those have increased, actually up above pre-pandemic levels," Roche said. "As a consequence of that, more flight hours and more aftermarket work for us." In its space and defense controls business, Moog has stepped up its production of turrets for Army vehicles. It's a $250 million contract, one of Moog's biggest outside of its aircraft business. "It's really positive and actually we're pursuing further follow-on contracts to keep that business going beyond those two years," Roche said. "We see a lot of opportunity there." And Roche said Moog's industrial systems business is in solid shape, with a strong book of business for the coming year. Supply chain issues are a continuing cause of uncertainty, Roche said. "That is no better or worse than 90 days ago," he said. He predicted supply chain constraints will begin to ease toward the end of the fiscal year. Roche succeeds John Scannell, who retired as CEO but remains nonexecutive chairman of the board. Roche praised Scannell during a Friday conference call with analysts. "Over the last 11 years, John has led with passion, conviction and integrity," Roche said. "Under his guidance, we have become financially stronger, with sales growth from $2.3 (billion) to $3 billion, and more innovative, which has led to new startup opportunities." Roche, who was elevated from chief operating officer, outlined his priorities as CEO in three areas: customer focus; people, community and planet; and financial strength. "I believe that our workforce should be more diverse and reflective of the communities that host us," he said. "I'm convinced that this will strengthen us as a company." Roche also pledged that Moog would do more to reduce emissions from its manufacturing operations. Staff Sgt. Daniel Czech ambushes a convoy from the 120th Field Artillery Regiment, Wisconsin National Guard, during the Northern Strike 23-1 exercise Jan. 26, 2023, at Camp Grayling, Mich. The training builds readiness for visiting units by challenging Soldiers in a variety of ways. (National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Tristan Viglianco) We have used your information to see if you have a subscription with us, but did not find one. Please use the button below to verify an existing account or to purchase a new subscription. TDT | Manama The Daily Tribune www.newsofbahrain.com His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, yesterday, endorsed the preparedness of Bahrain to host international sporting events, hailing the top standards set by the Crown Princes Cup at the Rashid Equestrian and Horse Racing Club (REHC) racetrack yesterday. The competitiveness of the Crown Princes Cup and its organisation reflects the Kingdoms capability to host international sporting events, said HRH HRH Prince Salman also attributed this success to the unwavering support of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa to the equestrian sector. This has contributed extensively to the development of Bahraini jockeys, who are now galloping to success locally, regionally and internationally. Further, terming the equestrian as part of authentic Bahraini heritage, HRH Prince Salman said, the sector played a crucial role in the longstanding success of Bahrain in hosting regional and international horseracing competitions. Agencies | Khartoum The Daily Tribune www.newsofbahrain.com Israel and Sudan have finalised a deal to normalise relations, with a signing ceremony expected following a transfer of power from the military to a civilian government in Khartoum, the Israeli foreign ministry said on Thursday. Sudan's foreign ministry earlier said the deal was agreed during a visit by Israeli Foreign Minister Eli Cohen to "move forward towards normalising relations between the two countries". After generations of non-recognition, Sudan pledged to take steps towards diplomatic ties with Israel as part of a 2020 deal brokered by then-U.S. President Donald Trump's administration, alongside normalisation deals between Israel and the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and Morocco known as the "Abraham Accords". Cohen's visit to Khartoum was the first by an Israeli official acknowledged by Sudanese authorities, though there had been a series of exchanges by officials in recent years. "During the visit, which was made with the consent of the United States, the parties finalised the text of the agreement," an Israeli foreign ministry statement said. "The signing ceremony is expected to take place after the transfer of power in Sudan to a civilian government that will be established as part of the ongoing transition process in the country," it said. "We definitely look forward to signing the agreement and then to having diplomatic representatives both in Israel and in Sudan," Lior Haiat, spokesperson for the foreign ministry who took part in the delegation, told Reuters. Cohen and Sudan's ruling Sovereign Council chief, General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, discussed deepening cooperation in security and military matters as well as agriculture, energy, health, water and education, Burhan's office said. Sudan's military, which has been in charge of the country since an October 2021 coup but says it intends to hand over power to a civilian government following ongoing talks, is seen as having led the move towards establishing relations with Israel. Civilian groups have been more reluctant and have previously said any deal must be ratified by a transitional parliament that has yet to be formed. According to state news agency SUNA, Burhan's deputy, General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, said he had no knowledge of the visit and did not meet the delegation. In January 2021 Sudan said its then-justice minister Nasredeen Abdulbari had signed the Abraham Accords during a visit by U.S. Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin. As intelligence minister that same year, Cohen made a ground-breaking visit to Sudan, a majority Muslim country. Cohen said after returning to Israel later on Thursday that Khartoum was long remembered by Israelis as the city where the Arab League in 1967 proclaimed its "Three No's" resolution on Israel - no recognition, no peace and no negotiations. "We are (now) building a new reality with the Sudanese, in which the 'Three No's' will become the 'Three Yeses'," he said. "Yes to negotiations between Israel and Sudan, yes to recognition of Israel and yes to peace between the states and between the peoples." Agencies | Tehran The Daily Tribune www.newsofbahrain.com Social media images purported to be of an emaciated jailed Iranian physician who went on hunger strike in support of demonstrations against the compulsory wearing of the hijab have caused outrage and warnings that he risks death. Farhad Meysami, 53, who has been in jail since 2018 for supporting women activists protesting against the headscarf policy, began his hunger strike on Oct. 7 to protest recent government killings of demonstrators, his lawyer said. But the Iranian judiciary denied the hunger strike claim and said the photos that have gone viral on social media were from four years ago when Meysami did go on hunger strike. As evidence, the semi-official student-led news agency Young Journalists Club posted what it said was Meysami's latest photo, in which he does not look emaciated and is seen sitting on the floor of his prison cell with a bag of what looks like chips next to him. Iran has been rocked by nationwide unrest following the death of Iranian Kurdish woman Mahsa Amini on Sept. 16 in police custody, posing one of the strongest challenges to the Islamic Republic since the 1979 revolution. Rights groups say more than 500 protesters have been killed and nearly 20,000 arrested. At least four people have been hanged, according to the Iranian judiciary. My client Farhad Meysamis life is in danger, tweeted lawyer Mohammad Moghimi. He went on hunger strike to protest the recent government killings in the streets. He said Meysami had lost 52 kg (115 lb). Images of Meysami show him curled up on what looks like a hospital bed, and another standing, his ribs protruding. Shocking images of Dr. Farhad Meysami, a brave advocate for womens rights who has been on hunger strike in prison, tweeted Robert Malley, Washingtons special envoy for Iran. Irans regime has unjustly denied him and thousands of other political prisoners their rights and their freedom. Now it unjustly threatens his life, he said. In a letter published by BBCs Persian Service, Meysami made three demands: an end to executions, release of political-civil prisoners, and an end to forced-hijab harassment. I will continue my impossible mission in the hope that it may become possible later on with a collective effort, he wrote. On Thursday, the activist HRANA news agency reported that Iranian film director Jafar Panahi had started a hunger strike in prison to protest against authorities refusal to release him temporarily on bail pending a retrial. Panahi was detained in July and told he would serve a six-year prison sentence originally issued by a Tehran court in 2010 amid a stepped-up crackdown on dissent. Agencies | Rome The Daily Tribune www.newsofbahrain.com A convicted Italian killer Edgardo Greco, believed to be associated with one of the countrys most powerful mafia organisations, was arrested after being on the run for 16 years after he was discovered working as a pizza chef, The Guardian reported. He is suspected of belonging to the notorious Ndrangheta, a powerful mafia organisation in Calabria, southern Italy. The Interpol stated that he was arrested in the French city of Saint-Etienne. He had at one point run an Italian restaurant under an alias, according to French prosecutors. After his arrest in the early morning hours, he appeared before an investigating magistrate in Lyon who formally notified him of Italys arrest warrant, prosecutors said. He was then placed in detention. Geros arrest was facilitated by, help for Italy and France from the cooperation against Ndrangheta project (I-Can) run by Interpol, as reported by The Guardian. It is a project which facilitates police cooperation between its 195 member states. In a statement released by Interpol, it said Greco described as a dangerous fugitive was wanted in Italy to serve a life sentence for the murders of Stefano and Giuseppe Bartolomeo. He was also accused of the attempted murder of Emiliano Mosciaro as part of a mafia war between the Pino Sena and Perna Pranno gangs that marked the early 1990s. According to French prosecutors Greco became the owner of an Italian restaurant called Caffe Rossini Ristorante in Saint-Etienne in June 2021. As per the documents accessed by the news agency AFPresse, he used the name Paolo Dimitrio and worked in other Italian restaurants in the city. Grecos arrest came a week after Italian police said it had dismantled a Ndrangheta mafia ring dominating a large area of southern Calabria and seized assets exceeding 250m ($270m), The Guardian reported. According to Italian media, Greco also worked evenings in a pizza restaurant under his assumed name. The Ndrangheta was considered Italys most extensive and powerful mafia group, Interpol said, operating worldwide and with strong ties to the trade in cocaine bound for Europe from South America. The pan-Yoruba leader urged Tinubu to save himself from the shame of losing at the polls, saying the northers will not vote for him. Adebanjo who was accompanied by another leader of Afenifere, Senator Femi Okunronmu, stated this at the presidential campaign rally of the LP in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital. Adebanjo predicted that Tinubu would be disappointed by the northerners at the polls. He described the LP as the new bride to the National Democratic Coalition which according to him would save Nigerians from the misrule of the APC. Adebanjo said, All those that know Tinubu should tell him, I have always told him and I will tell him again, the northerners will not vote for him. He (Tinubu) should come back home now and support Obi because when they finally defeat him, he wont have the courage to come back home again, if he comes back now, we will forgive him and take him back. I have told you before and I want to say it again, Labour Party is now NADECO, those of us supporting Obi are the ones that want good governance, we want Nigeria to be better, we want to liberate ourselves from the captivity of the ruling class. We are behind Obi, leaders of progressive movement are behind Obi. Those fraudsters parading themselves as Yoruba do not love the country. Yorubas do not take things that belong to other tribes. A Yoruba has been President before. Obi had earlier paid a visit to the Alake and the Paramount ruler of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Gbadebo, at his palace. Addressing the youths at a town hall meeting held within the premises of the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library, Obi described Nigeria as a failed state and one of the most unsecured countries in the world which is no longer in control of your territory. He said, For me, I have served the people of Anambra State and was rated as number one in the implementation of the Millennium Development Goals and the records are there. Even in the areas of education and taking people out of poverty without borrowing a Kobo from anybody; I paid all the pensions being owed before I assumed office. So, let presidential candidates come out and show Nigerians what they have done in the past before aspiring to govern the country. We are determined for a new Nigeria. We want people who are confident, and who are qualified for the job. This years election is very essential, we can no longer be comfortable with incompetence. We want people who will show commitment; this job requires physical and mental energy. So, we want people who are ready for the job. Myself and Datti want to change Nigeria. I and Datti want to change Nigeria; we are the only set of people that can do that. We have the capacity to do that and that is why we are saying that you should entrust us with the country, and we will make it a great country. Hold us responsible to deal with this matter. Nigeria is a great country, but we have all allowed it to be in the hands of the few who do not know how to manage it. Your Majesty, that is why we are here to plead for your blessings. We know that no royal father goes into politics, but when your subjects are dying and if you dont intervene, one day, they will come for you for there is no alternative, please, save them. Some yet-to-be-identified assailants have attacked a police station at Abagana, Njikoka Local Government Area of Anambra State, killing two members of the state vigilante service in the process. The reason for the attack had yet to be ascertained but sources said the incident happened late on Friday. According to sources in the area, the assailants were on their way to attack the police station when they met the vigilante operatives on patrol and immediately opened fire on them, killing two of them instantly. Although there were conflicting figures as to the number of the vigilante operatives that were killed, while some sources said two, others said three. The sources said it was a bloody night as the hoodlums started shooting sporadically as they approached the police station in order to gain entrance, while the security personnel also engaged them in a hot exchange of gun duel, which lasted over 45 minutes. It was gathered that the hoodlums succeeded in throwing a petrol bomb into the police station, which ignited a fire and affected the roof of the building. The hoodlums came in their large number, shot three vigilante operatives who were on patrol and then drove down and stopped in front of the police station and vigilante office. They set the inmates free and set the facilities ablaze, the source added. The state police spokesman, DSP Tochukwu Ikenga, confirmed the incidents, but immediately added that the hoodlums did not gain entrance into the police station as they were repelled by the police personnel on duty. Ikenga said, On Friday, by 11:30 pm, police operatives attached to Abagana police station resisted gunmens attack on the station and forestall the attackers from gaining entrance to the police facility. The gunmen had earlier attacked, Anambra State Vigilante Operatives on patrol, murdered two of their operatives, and on approaching the Abagana Police Station, started shooting sporadically to gain entrance to the police station. The police operatives engaged the armed men in a gun duel, due to the superior fire of the police and in a bid for the gunmen to flee the scene, threw a petrol bomb into the station, which ignited the fire and affected the roof of an old building in the station. The fire service operatives responded swiftly and put off the fire. Meanwhile, patrols have been intensified in the area and within the state, further, development shall be communicated, please. Some 8,500 people turned out on Dec. 16, 2017, to watch the commissioning of the new $440 million USS Little Rock draped in red, white and blue bunting at Buffalo and Erie County Naval & Military Park. That now appears to have been the ship's only bright moment. New USS Little Rock makes history at Canalside Thousands of spectators have converged on Canalside for the commissioning of the ship. Watch the ceremonies live Not even six years later, the USS Little Rock will be decommissioned on March 31 at Mayport Naval Station in Florida, where it is stationed. The 387-foot-long vessel was imperiled from the start with significant design flaws that the Navy has concluded cannot be overcome. U.S. Navy officials first announced at a media briefing almost a year ago that nine Freedom-class littoral combat ships would be decommissioned as part of the 2023 fiscal year budget. New USS Little Rock departs Buffalo, embarks on journey to Florida When the crew of the new USS Little Rock shoves off this morning to begin its voyage to Mayport Naval Station in Florida, the crew will leave with a boatload of good "It's somewhat of an embarrassment," said Paul Marzello, the Naval Park's executive director. "It was a happy moment, a proud moment on Dec. 16, 2017, and here it is five and a half years later, and she's being decommissioned." "It is really a disappointment," said Maurice Naylon, who chaired the commissioning committee. "We were so proud of the way we joined forces for this historic event, and it certainly put a nice sheen on Buffalo's reputation." The Little Rock suffered a major failure at sea in 2020, six weeks after departing Mayport on its first deployment due to a flaw in the propulsion system, according to defensennews.com. The nine Lockheed Martin-built high-speed vessels were designed to operate in shallow waters, and they were outfitted with some 8,000 computer sensors. All were hit with the propulsion problem. The ships will likely be scrapped or sunk to the bottom of an ocean the fate of many decommissioned ships. Rear Adm. John Gumbleton, the deputy assistant secretary of the Navy for budget, put the cost of the nine vessels the newest of which was commissioned in 2020 to be decommissioned at $4.5 billion, according to defensenews.com. "That's a lot of money going, literally, right down the drain," said Mike Vogel, president of the Buffalo Lighthouse Association. "It was a very expensive ship that had all kinds of potential, and it was certainly an honor to have it commissioned here in Buffalo. It's kind of heartbreaking to see it a little bit later being decommissioned and probably scrapped." The modular, reconfigurable ship was built to engage in surface warfare, hunt enemy submarines and eliminate mines. The ship had the rare capacity to change from one mission to another within 96 hours, and, in some cases, just 24 hours. Its "plug and play" mission versatility also accommodated different weapon systems delivered at sea in steel cargo containers and lowered into the ship on a freight elevator, then maneuvered into place with overhead cranes and plugged into the ships computers. The new USS Little Rock: A model of naval power, flexibility and affordability To fully grasp the appeal of the Navys newest combat ship, think of it like a pickup truck albeit a $440 million model with 8,000 computer Littoral combat ships can also maneuver in water just 13 feet deep, well below the 30 feet most naval ships require. That allows the ships to enter more ports, particularly in islands from Sri Lanka to the Philippines. But the $762 billion defense budget for fiscal year 2023 included a request from the Navy to decommission 39 warships, including the nine Freedom-class littoral combat ships. U.S. Rep. Steve Womack, who represents the Fayetteville, Ark., area, and takes pride in the two ships named for the state capital, told the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette in October that the littoral combat ship program represented "a sad chapter in the history of the Navy." "It's sad that the USS Little Rock is one of those out of the Freedom class," Womack said. "The Freedom class had more problems than the others, but the entire littoral combat ships program has suffered from a lot of setbacks." Deactivated ships are taken to one of three locations where mothballed fleets of naval vessels wait for disposal: Philadelphia, Bremerton, Wash., and Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. The ships are often disassembled for the steel to be recycled. But that's not always the case. Ships are also deliberately sunk, generally in locations where they can become artificial reefs to promote sea life, Vogel said. The Navy's Ship Donation Program decides if a vessel can be donated as a floating museum. But that rarely happens with ships with short lifespans. The Naval Park's USS Little Rock, commissioned in 1945, served until 1976, six times the length of service of the newer namesake. Marzello recalls fondly the commissioning of the newer ship. Former Secretary of the Navy Ray Mabus, who once served on the-now museum USS Little Rock, and 300 former crew members and relatives, were on hand for the historic occasion. So was Commander Paul Burkhart, a Western New York native who served as the new Little Rocks first commander while under construction. "We're going to certainly take a look at any opportunity that could possibly bring her back to Buffalo as a museum ship," Marzello said. "It would be an interesting opportunity to see a 1940s ship called the USS Little Rock versus a 2017 version. "It didn't look like much from the outside, but the inside was a technological marvel." \By Kwame Ibrahim, The number of Lesbians, gays, bisexuals and transgender (LGBT) persons in Nigeria, though largely undocumented officially, has continued to rise exponentially, especially amongst teenagers, youths and adults. According to several projects related fact finding researches and spontaneous polls conducted in some institutions of higher learning and amongst clusters of young people in social media groups and platforms, this is common everywhere but more pronounced in cities of Lagos, Kano, Port Harcourt, Sokoto, Abuja, Maiduguri, Ibadan, Kaduna and Owerri. This is even spreading all over the country at a growing rate despite of the legal statutes and social responses which have clearly red-flagged the queer preference and defined homosexuality as illegal in Nigeria and punishable by up to 14 years of prison in the conventional court system. Nigeria is a largely conservative country and the very Western proclivity towards openly embracing gay rights and LGBT penchants is deemed not only as an anathema but also an unacceptable negation and disrespect for the very foundation on the mores and decency which its cultural, religious, traditional and secular communal existence have been built and have continued to thrive over the years. As Nigeria evolves into a more post modern and more globalized society, credible findings have revealed that the fundamental threat which this surge in queer attitude poses for its secularity is disturbingly manifest in the deliberate and determined effort by LGBT advocates to take over the political legislative process in its 2023 elections. The basic aim of such financiers is to subsequently secure sufficient representatives in its National Assembly to push for and promulgate the law legalising and legitimizing homosexuality. In the past, such an attempt was resisted by communities in Kenya through support of Community Leaders and its Government but the Nigerian situation seems different because of the present unholy silence that has greeted many aspirants for senatorial and House of Representative positions of some political parties that have well known LGBT sympathizers and practitioners as their candidates. This is indeed a worrisome phenomenon which, if allowed to become reality, will not only erode the very fabric of Nigeria's original existential identity, but would dangerously affect the acceptable balance of decency and straight relationship which have been the hallmarks of majority of traditional families in Nigeria and Africa. There is no gainsaying the fact that the Nigeria society will be confronted with dire consequences if this queer LGBT advocacy gains traction in its National Assembly, especially when such a law would embolden the gays and lesbians to openly challenge and even violently rubbish any real or perceived rational and normal counter argument against this quite uncharacteristic behaviour in its society. Furthermore, there is no doubt whatsoever that a law legitimizing LGBT tendencies, would result in uncontrolled homophobia which will radically disrupt peaceful existence and dislocate many straight people, who will be subjected to unprovoked assaults by those gloating to endorse the new legislation on the streets, schools, bars and restaurants, churches and other places where the need to impose the law would be deemed necessary and patriotic. This sad intent through politics by introducing and sponsoring LGBT members into the National Legislative System of Africa's most populous Nation will of course come at a great social, existential cost and unleash in its wake, major destructive consequences to all African societies, the Nigerian Nation and most developing communities of the world. Against the backdrop of anticipated backlash of violent and berserk orgies of unprovoked violence by members of the LGBT community, who had hitherto felt constrained, the need to sensitise the general public through the various channels of communication becomes highly recommended and inevitable especially in recognition of the fact that this behaviour and the attendant defensive fightback, will definitely escalate, if such is not checked at this 2023 election period in Nigeria. All well meaning Nigerians must act swiftly at this point of the electoral and voting process where all the gains already achieved from the existing bill prohibiting and stipulating penalties for such queer practices can be reversed if they allow the pro gay and LGBT sympathizers to dominate the National Assembly with their presence as elected Representatives as they would have a voice on the floors of the two parliaments to destroy its moral standards and religious beliefs. The accommodation, maturity, peaceful, harmonious coexistence and decency which exists in the Nigerian society would all be eroded once the legislation to legalise same sex, LGBT relationship is achieved. A stitch in time saves nine. This is time for Community, Traditional and Religious Leaders to speak up. This is time for the electorate to grow in proper awareness of the consequences of making inappropriate choices. Already, findings from credible investigations conducted to ascertain the next strategic ploy by the Queer community to accomplish the deliberate agenda of forcing legislation that would favour their cause, indicate that the LGBT Community in Nigeria has set its target at producing twenty House of Representative members from four states, namely: Sokoto, Kano, Rivers and Lagos, during the 2023 election. In states where party tickets could not be secured in the two major political parties, sympathetic aspirants were sponsored with huge amounts of funding, to join fresh parties with the clear intent to attract followers, which is a major catalyst for political mobilisation in a country like Nigeria. Specifically, Kano, Lagos and Rivers states are said to have recorded huge success for this aspiration. However, the extent to which these plans work out would largely depend on the acceptance or rejection of these aspirants by the level of awareness created for the voting public especially through their Leaders. Kwame lbrahim, Ph.D African Research Institute. Doctoral School of Safety & Security Services. Hungary, Budapest Manchester City manager, Pep Guardiola, has claimed up to nine clubs wrote to the Premier League asking for the champions to be banned. Guardiola stated this while reacting to Chelseas splurge in the January transfer window. Since the summer transfer window, the Blues have spent over 600 million on new signings. That included a record transfer worth 120m for Enzo Fernandez from Benfica, with seven other players added to Graham Potters squad throughout last month. When asked what the reaction would be if City spent the same amount, Guardiola replied: I know what would happen. What Chelsea, Arsenal, Liverpool, United, without good players you have to spend. Now the market is wow. There are regulations, I dont forget the eight or nine teams that sent a letter to the Premier League to get us banned. We are the fifth team in net spend. Six-day (Tuesday through Sunday) print subscribers of the Watertown Daily Times are eligible for full access to NNY360, the NNY360 mobile app, and the Watertown Daily Times e-edition, all at no additional cost. If you have an existing six-day print subscription to the Watertown Daily Times, please make sure your email address on file matches your NNY360 account email. You can sign up or manage your print subscription using the options below. PHILADELPHIA President Joe Biden hasn't yet announced a reelection campaign, but he sounded like someone already running while firing up a national meeting of the Democratic Party on Friday. "No matter who is president, things are going to change radically in the next 15 years," Biden said at a reception for the Democratic National Committee during its meeting in downtown Philadelphia. "And the question is, Are we going to be leading the pack? Or are we going to be the end of it?" Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris came to the party gathering to tout what they called their administration's successes including growing the economy and overseeing major public works and health care and green technology spending packages approved by Congress. They got good news even before arriving: a strong jobs report released hours earlier showed employers created a net 517,000 jobs last month, exceeding economists' expectations, which Biden called "strikingly good news." "I'm not saying we've done everything right. I'm gonna make more mistakes over the next period of time. But we've got the right attitude," said Biden, who said he wanted to reverse a trend of too many Americans having lost faith in their country's ability to do great things. Harris was even more direct, telling those gathered: "It's not the time to pat ourselves on the back. It's the time to see it through." "And that's going to take as much work, if not more, than everything that everyone here put into where we are today," the vice president said. Prior to heading to the party meeting, Biden and Harris visited a water treatment plant and hailed $15 billion in funding to remove lead pipes from service lines around the country, including in Philadelphia. "The issue has to do with basic dignity," Biden said. "No amount of lead in water is safe. None." With the State of the Union address coming next week, Biden renewed calls for political unity. But those appeals haven't tempered Biden's broadsides against his predecessor, Donald Trump, and the Republican Party's continued fealty to the former president's "Make America Great Again" movement. "This ain't your father's Republican Party," Biden said Friday, adding that the GOP agenda was so extreme, "We have to keep pointing out what the other team wants." The president is facing increasing pressure in Washington, where a special counsel is investigating how classified documents turned up in his home and a former office, and a Republican-controlled House is investigating everything from the administration's immigration procedures at the U.S.-Mexico border to the overseas ties of the president's son Hunter. That's made some Democrats anxious to see Biden stay on the political offensive. "The president is trying to solve the problems of the nation on infrastructure, on microchips, on gun safety, on health care, and I think he's going to talk about doing that," said Randi Weingarten, a DNC member and president of the American Federation of Teachers. "And then also compare (that) to the GOP, which seems to be on a revenge agenda." Biden's speech comes the day before the DNC is scheduled to approve an overhauled presidential primary calendar starting next year that would replace Iowa with South Carolina in the leadoff spot. New Hampshire and Nevada would go second, followed by Georgia and Michigan a change the president has championed to ensure voters of color have more influence deciding the party's White House nominee. The new calendar would be largely moot if Biden runs again, no major Democratic challenger is thought to be preparing to run against him. Biden's expected announcement of a reelection campaign is still likely weeks away. But his advisers have been preparing for months, making staffing arrangements and readying lines of political attacks against Republicans seen as early presidential front-runners, including Trump, who launched his campaign in November, and Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis. Biden repeatedly denounced "extreme MAGA Republicans" as a threat to the nation's democracy in the run-up to last fall's midterm elections, when his party pulled off a stronger-than-expected showing. The president has since worked to portray today's GOP as beholden to Trump, saying at a separate DNC fundraiser in New York this week, "You'd think that what would happen is that there would be a little bit, as we Catholics say, (of) an epiphany." "Well, instead, it's been the exact opposite," Biden said. "They've just doubled down." Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens and U.S. Sen. Jon Ossoff (D-Georgia) greet President Joe Biden as he arrives at Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson Airport, Sunday, Jan. 15, 2023. Biden was to deliver remarks at Ebenezer Baptist Church in Atlanta, where U.S. Sen. Raphael Warnock (D-Georgia) is the lead pastor, and is the same church where the late Atlanta born civil rights icon Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., once preached. The event also takes place on the birthday of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. (John Arthur Brown/Zuma Press/TNS) Green energy Cannabis legalization Insurance rates Housing costs Who are we kidding? They won't do anything helpful. Vote View Results Krewe du Vieux captains say the city was inflexible while negotiating their parade route this year and wouldn't give them clear answers to their questions regarding the route. The krewe learned Jan. 30 that its route for the Feb. 4 parade this year excludes several blocks that have long been hotspots for spectators, including the strip of bars on Frenchmen and Decatur streets. Its the busiest stretch, its the liveliest stretch because there are so many bars, but also our members frequent those spaces, co-captain Sebastian Boegershausen told Gambit Feb. 2. Were familiar with the people who work there and the owners. Its where our friends are. Its always been special to us. Since December, krewe leaders had been proposing their ideas to city officials for a parade route similar to previous years, after marching along a shortened route in 2022. Krewe leaders say they understood the decision to cut back last years route, due to police officer staffing shortages and general uncertainty over the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. For this year, they sought more generous parade time spent in the Marigny and the French Quarter, particularly so they could pass by many of the city's bars and music venues clustered in the area. Krewe representatives met Jan. 27 with members of the New Orleans Police Department, Cantrell aides and other city staffers to discuss the route. They called that meeting a complete standoff. The krewe says in a Feb. 2 statement NOPD regarded their proposal as a non-starter and gave them two options: either to follow last years shortened route, which would have eliminated the Marigny rectangle; or add in the Marigny rectangle and eliminate the interior of the French Quarter by staying on major thoroughfares. They say the city did not provide an explanation of why the route would need to be shortened, which is particularly vexxing for members given city officials have touted an increased police presence as the driving factor in Uptown krewes returning to their traditional routes. We were told the addition of the seven blocks of Royal Street in the Marigny created an unacceptable traffic disruption on the French Quarter portion of the route, Boegershausen says. But it's unclear how the krewe traveling directly down Royal instead of turning onto Frenchmen would cause a major difference impact on traffic, because either way, the krewe has to cross Elysian Fields Avenue, a major thoroughfare. Krewe du Vieuxs route has varied from year to year, depending on where the krewe holds its official after-party. And the parade this year is technically similar in length to previous years though it is leaving out an area typically teeming with revelers. Leaders are furthermore frustrated that the city indicated that it was the krewe's decision to eliminate Frenchmen and Decatur on its own. NOPD gave us non-options and was inflexible on making either of those options more acceptable," the krewe wrote in the statement. "We remain baffled. The statement comes on the heels of Council President JP Morrells recent announcement that he will be drafting ordinances that could help downtown krewes solidify routes. Krewe du Vieux's theme, perhaps all too fittingly, is Krewe du Vieux Beats Off. Boegershausen previously told Gambit that the parade will poke fun at the self-aggrandizing behavior characteristic of elected officials in addition to the notion that city leaders are out of step with residents. One of the first Bollywood-inspired krewes will hit the streets tonight when the Krewe da Bhan Gras joins Krewe Boheme through the Marigny and French Quarter, highlighting South Asian culture in Carnival. Known for dramatic song and dance numbers, elaborate plot lines and over-the-top action, the marriage of Bollywood and Bhangra music with Carnival is a natural fit. Krewe co-founder and captain Monica Dhand said she and other members of the New Orleans Desi community have long been considering the idea of a South Asian-inspired krewe before she eventually pitched the idea to her friend and co-founder Anjali Niyogi. We played around with names and settled on the pun "Bhan Gras" to tie in the music and dance tradition the Krewe draws from, Dhand and Niyogi said in an email to Gambit. The idea for the krewe began to come together after Dhand and Niyogi met with their mutual friend Hunter Hutchinson, who happened to be the newly designated art director for Boheme. Dhand and Niyogi credit Hutchinson with helping the pair cement their ideas for what would become the Krewe da Bhan Gras. Despite officially receiving their acceptance into Boheme in late December, Dhand and Niyogi managed to pull together the entire subkrewe in just six short weeks. The pair made it their mission to accurately represent the diversity of South Asian culture by including krewe members from not just India but also Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Guyana and Bangladesh. Krewe da Bhan Gras is made up of 32 dancers and 10 support staff members that assist with security, float design and audio visual management. Dhand and Niyogi said they want to showcase and celebrate differences in identity and tradition within New Orleans. In recent years, there has been a beautiful growth in groups honoring and sharing their cultural traditions, they said. There is a small but growing collection of people from the South Asian diaspora, but few opportunities to share our culture and traditions with the city. Above all, Dhand and Niyogi said they hope to create a safe space for others to honor and represent their cultural ties within the city. We hope the recognition of New Orleans as a multicultural city grows and more groups, whether they have been here for generations or newly arriving, feel inspired and welcomed to share their own traditions," the co-founders said. Catch the Krewe da Bhan Gras Friday, Feb. 3, during Bohemes parade, which kicks off at 7 p.m. For more information about the krewe, check out kreweboheme.com. A man was fatally shot and a woman was injured in an overnight homicide Saturday on Tchoupitoulas Street in the West Riverside area, according to the New Orleans Police Department. The man and woman were in the 5200 block of Tchoupitoulas Street at 3:26 a.m. when the man, 44, went into another man's house without permission, the NOPD said. The two men started to fight, and both victims were shot multiple times. Paramedics brought both the man and the woman, 41, to a hospital, where the man later died, police said. No other details were immediately available, including the identity of either victim and whether a known suspect had been arrested. Anyone with information regarding this crime is asked to call Crimestoppers at (504) 822-1111. Tipsters may be eligible for a cash reward. +3 Case dismissed against Bridge City escapee accused of Uptown carjacking after DA misses deadline The case against a Bridge City Center for Youth escapee and another youth who allegedly carjacked and shot an Uptown man was dismissed after t A babysitter was arrested Thursday and accused of shaking and tossing a 5-month-old child as she cried in the middle of the night, police wrote in documents filed in Criminal District Court. Deja Cary, 27, was booked with second-degree cruelty to juveniles. The child was subsequently sent to the pediatric intensive care unit at Children's Hospital in New Orleans, according to the documents. Doctors found Thursday that the child was suffering from brain bleeding and multiple fractures, which caused seizures and have since made the baby dependent on a breathing machine, the documents said. Detectives went to Children's Hospital and found that the Department of Children and Family Services had already spoken with both the baby's mother and Cary. Cary admitted to them that she shook and tossed the baby a couple weeks ago, the documents said. Cary admitted hurting the baby when she woke her up in the middle of the night due to her continuous crying, according to the documents. Cary told police she blacked out and could not remember what happened after she tossed the baby on a bed, but said that the child seemed fine, the documents said. Cary also told police that her frustration with the child came from her own postpartum depression, which she was diagnosed with two weeks after her child was born in 2020. A few weeks later, the baby had a seizure as Cary watched her. Cary called the baby's mother, who took the baby to the doctor but then brought the baby back to Cary. The baby had another seizure a few days after that, also while in Cary's care, the documents said. Cary called paramedics, who said the baby's vital signs were normal, and left, according to the documents. About 8:30 a.m. on Thursday , the child had a third seizure and prompted the child's mother to call for paramedics, who brought the baby to Children's Hospital, where doctors learned about her injuries. PHILADELPHIA (AP) The Democratic Party on Saturday approved the reordering of its 2024 presidential primary, replacing Iowa with South Carolina in the leadoff spot as part of a major shake-up meant to empower Black and other minority voters critical to its base of support. Although changes are still possible throughout the summer and beyond, the formal endorsement by the Democratic National Committee during its meeting in Philadelphia is an acknowledgement that the start of the 2024 primary will look very different from the one in 2020. States with early contests have a major influence in determining the nominee because White House hopefuls struggling to raise money or gain political traction often drop out before visiting states outside the first five. The new plan has been championed by President Joe Biden, who is expected to formally announce his reelection campaign in the coming months. The reconfiguring would have South Carolina hold its primary on Feb. 3, followed three days later by New Hampshire and Nevada, which is swapping the caucus it used to hold in favor of a primary. Georgia would vote fourth on Feb. 13, followed by Michigan on Feb. 27, with much of the rest of the nation set to vote on Super Tuesday in early March. "The Democratic Party looks like America and so does this proposal," the party chairman, Jaime Harrison, said before the plan was approved. It "elevates the backbone of our party," he said. Biden himself had written the DNC rules committee in December, saying, "We must ensure that voters of color have a voice in choosing our nominee much earlier in the process and throughout the entire early window." That committee approved the new lineup, setting the stage for Saturday's vote. The move marks a dramatic shift from the current calendar, which saw Iowa start with its caucus, followed by New Hampshire and then Nevada and South Carolina. Four of the first five states under the new plan are battlegrounds, meaning the eventual party winner would be able to lay groundwork in important general election spots. Thats especially true for Michigan and Georgia, both of which voted for Republican Donald Trump in 2016 before flipping to Biden in 2020. The exception is South Carolina, which hasnt backed a Democrat in a presidential race since 1976, leading some to argue that the party shouldnt be concentrating so many early primary resources there. But the states population is nearly 27% Black, and African American voters represent Democrats most consistent base of support. Iowa and New Hampshire are each more than 90% white. The revamped calendar could be largely meaningless for 2024 because Biden is expected to run for a second term without a major primary challenge. Also, the DNC has already pledged to revisit the voting calendar before the 2028 presidential election. Still, this years changes could establish precedent, just as a new lineup that moved Nevada and South Carolina into the first states to vote did when the DNC approved a new primary calendar before the 2008 presidential election. Read more about the primary shake-up: How Democrats early-voting order in 2024 compares with 2020 2024: Feb. 3: South Carolina Feb. 6: New Hampshire, Nevada Feb. 13: Georgia Feb. 27: Michigan March 5: Super Tuesday To be determined: Iowa ___ 2020: Feb. 3: Iowa Feb. 11: New Hampshire Feb. 22: Nevada Feb. 29: South Carolina March 3: Super Tuesday March 10: Michigan May 19: Georgia (shifted from March 24 due to the coronavirus pandemic) ___ Check out more of today's top political news: State of the Union: Biden sees economic glow, GOP sees gloom Going into Tuesday's State of the Union address, President Joe Biden sees a nation with a glowing economic future. But Republicans take a far gloomier view. US presidents who were elected for a second term, ranked US presidents who were elected for a second term, ranked #21. Richard Nixon #20. George W. Bush #19. Grover Cleveland #18. Calvin Coolidge #17. Andrew Jackson #16. Ulysses S. Grant #15. Bill Clinton #14. James Madison #13. William McKinley #12. Woodrow Wilson #11. James Monroe #10. Lyndon B. Johnson #9. Barack Obama #8. Ronald Reagan #7. Thomas Jefferson #6. Harry S. Truman #5. Dwight D. Eisenhower #4. Theodore Roosevelt #3. Franklin D. Roosevelt #2. George Washington #1. Abraham Lincoln Steven Weitzman is going to bring a civil rights icon to life in the U.S. Capitol. Weitzman, 70, has been a full-time artist since he was 19, and its the only job hes ever known. The Montgomery County, Maryland, resident has produced sculptures at his Prince Georges County studio of other deceased, well-known Black leaders, such as four-time D.C. Mayor Marion Barry and abolitionist Frederick Douglass. It was preordained with me, Weitzman said. Going to school, (it was) me just waiting, waiting, waiting, going through the motions to grow up enough to get out of school so I can be an artist. The bronze Douglass statue stands in the U.S. Capitol Visitor Centers Emancipation Hall, where it was installed in 2013. A decade later, Weitzman has been tapped to produce a statue of Barbara Rose Johns, who as a 16-year-old girl played a pivotal role in the downfall of segregated schooling, for the Commission For Historical Statues in the United States Capitol. Johns died in 1991. Johns image will replace Robert E. Lee, who stood in Statuary Hall until 2020 as the representative of Virginia; the state is also represented by George Washington. Three years prior, in Baltimore, former Mayor Catherine Pugh had four Confederate-linked monuments removed in the middle of the night on the heels of the fatal white supremacist march in Charlottesville, Virginia. One of the statues featured Lee and his fellow Confederate Gen. Thomas Stonewall Jackson. Johns attended the segregated Robert Russa Moton High School in Farmville, Virginia, which later became a museum. According to the Robert Russa Moton Museum, Johns led her classmates on a strike on April 23, 1951, to protest the schools poor facilities, shabby equipment and no science laboratories or separate gymnasium. She was ahead of her time. A lot of the pivotal moments in the civil rights movement had yet to take place, said Cameron Patterson, the museums executive director. Barbara Johns and her classmates played an incredible role in such a pivotal moment in American history. The students worked with lawyers Spottswood William Robinson III and Oliver Hill, who filed a lawsuit in federal court: Davis v. County School Board of Prince Edward County. That case was one of the five the U.S. Supreme Court reviewed in delivering the Brown v. Board of Education decision that ruled segregation unconstitutional. It was the only case spurred by a student movement, Patterson said. Weitzman said his statue aims to capture the moment the mild-mannered Johns called upon 450 of her classmates to walk out. One of her hands will be balled in a fist, the other holding a book above her head, as she prepares to become one of the catalysts for desegregation in America. While Weitzman came up with the sculptures design, Johns was chosen by the Commission For Historical Statues in the United States Capitol. Julie Langan is the director of the Virginia Department of Historic Resources, which supports the commission. She said the commission received hundreds of nominations that produced 83 different subject suggestions from which Johns was chosen. The commission unanimously chose Weitzman to produce Johns statue from among 10 detailed proposals, Langan said. From the beginning, we heard people voice the desire that we hire a Virginia artist and that we hire an African American artist, but that was never going to override our commitment to finding the most highly skilled sculptor for this commission. So we werent bound by those qualifications, Langan said. His presentation just really resonated with the commission. Weitzman, who said producing the sculpture is an unbelievable honor, said being white does not keep him from being sensitive to the history of the treatment of Black people and other minorities in America. Weitzman has produced art of Black wood carver Elijah Pierce, Chief Niwot of the Southern Arapaho tribe and civil rights icon Rosa Parks. I see the world in full color, Weitzman said. I get the cultural differences of everybody. But I dont see those cultural differences as a detriment. I see those cultural differences as a benefit for all of us because were one diverse group of people together. Weitzman has few photographs of Johns as a teenager to use as a reference. He invited Johns siblings to come to his Brentwood studio and guide his clay molding of Johns face. Well just sit and talk. Well have pictures, videos, whatever we have around us. Ill have the little clay portrait of her and Ill just start to sculpt, Weitzman said. And in the end, hopefully itll all resolve into the Barbara Johns that they know. Johns family could not be reached for comment. The Virginia General Assembly has allocated $500,000 for the Johns project, including the costs of removing Lee and unveiling the new statue, Langan said. The sculpture will be completed between the end of 2023 and mid-2024, Weitzman said. There are many school-aged children that tour the Capitol on a daily basis and to be able to look up at a statue of a young person who did what she did at such a young age, 16 years of age, I hope that that speaks to those that walk through the Capitol doors, Patterson said. Its a great example that big or small, your contributions towards improving your community can be really impactful and really important. States with the most Confederate memorials States with the most Confederate memorials #28. Arizona (tie) #28. Delaware (tie) #28. Iowa (tie) #28. Indiana (tie) #25. New Mexico (tie) #25. Pennsylvania (tie) #25. Washington (tie) #24. Idaho #23. Oregon #22. Minnesota #20. Montana (tie) #20. Ohio (tie) #18. Maryland (tie) #18. New York (tie) #17. Washington D.C. #16. California #15. Oklahoma #14. West Virginia #13. Missouri #12. Kentucky #11. Arkansas #10. Florida #9. Tennessee #8. Louisiana #7. Mississippi #6. Alabama #5. North Carolina #4. South Carolina #3. Texas #2. Georgia #1. Virginia States with the most Confederate memorials #28. Arizona (tie) #28. Delaware (tie) #28. Iowa (tie) #28. Indiana (tie) #26. Pennsylvania (tie) #26. Washington (tie) #25. Idaho #24. Oregon #22. Minnesota (tie) #22. New Mexico (tie) #20. Montana (tie) #20. Ohio (tie) #19. Maryland #18. Washington D.C. #17. New York #16. California #15. Oklahoma #14. West Virginia #13. Missouri #12. Kentucky #11. Arkansas #10. Florida #9. Tennessee #8. Louisiana #7. Mississippi #6. North Carolina #5. Alabama #4. South Carolina #3. Texas #2. Virginia #1. Georgia Its 2023 and the next communication from your Congress-person will probably say, Thanks for voting: but Because as promised the GOP-led Congress now has to do what theyve been told by their corporate owners and cut Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid. Why would they want to take away the safety nets (called entitlements) their voters count on them for? Because government contractors, random billionaires and two-bit grifters cant stand to know that there are stockpiles of money they cant touch. The money in those programs cannot be used for something else and those corporate hyenas have been salivating over it since the New Deal. Kevin McCarthy and his clown circus are about to hand it over to them in the next few weeks. What can you do about it? Call your representatives and say, Absolutely not! Remind them that the rumor that those programs will be bankrupt by 2030 is a scare tactic and a lie, but if its even remotely true, then find another way to fund them (like making Congress pay for their own health care like we do). Tell your rep we dont want our safety nets privatized because look how well that went with the Affordable Care Act. Then watch the votes very closely, because anyone who votes in favor of ending Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid is not your friend and should be kicked out in 2024, if not before. Anyone who votes against it has got your back and deserves your support. HAMMOND A federal judge has sentenced a Gary woman to home detention for gun-running. U.S. District Court Judge Philip P Simon imposed a two-year period of probation Thursday on 31-year-old Deanna Washington. She must participate in the courts location monitoring program, which typically requires probationers to remain in their residences, with some exceptions, such as work, school, medical treatment or other court-ordered obligations. She pleaded guilty Oct. 19 to a charge of lying on a federal firearms application form while buying a Glock Model 17 9 mm pistol Dec. 18, 2021, at a downstate gun shop near Logansport, Indiana. A federal grand jury first charged Washington with making six such illicit firearm purchases in 2021 at gun stores in Merrillville, Hammond and Logansport. The government said she filled out federal firearms applications with a false address, a felony punishable by up to 10 years' imprisonment. She gave up her right to make the government prove its case against her in return for leniency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Patrick D. Grindlay states in an earlier memo to the court that law enforcement investigators recovered half of the guns she purchased. He said one of those weapons ended up in the hands of a juvenile delinquent and another in the possession of a man who was under a court monitoring system in Cook County, Illinois. Her probation could be revoked if it is proven that she commits any other crimes during those two years. LAKE COUNTY The Lake County prosecutors office plans its second meeting of the Lake County Clergy Council next week. The meeting will begin at 10 a.m. Tuesday at St. Timothys Episcopal Church, 1115 N. Cline Ave. in Griffith. Clergy members will have the opportunity to learn about criminal justice topics through quarterly presentations by law enforcement, prosecutors and other officials. Clergy members are leaders in our community and play a critical role in the lives of the people they serve, Prosecutor Bernard Carter said Friday. It is for that reason that we feel strongly that by informing our clergy we can continue to bridge the gap of understanding between community and prosecutors, as well as law enforcement. At next weeks meeting, attendees will watch a presentation from the Lake County Sheriffs Department on arrest procedures and a presentation from the prosecutors office on no-contact orders, restraining orders and orders of protection, according to a news release. The prosecutors office created the council in partnership with the Sheriffs Department and the Lake County clerk. Carter announced the creation of the council in October. Members representing various religious institutions in the county are welcome. Clergy members interested in attending can call 219-755-3720 and ask for Public Information Officer Myrna Maldonado or email mmaldonado@lakepros.org. Here is the weekly outdoors calendar: Through March 15 Captain Bobs Outdoors Winter Fishing Derby. 10295 Main St. in Clarence to register. Entry fee is $20. 8 species categories. For more information, call Steve Hawkins at 407-3021. captbobsoutdoors.com. Through March 21 Winter Birding Challenge sponsored by Buffalo Audubon and Outside Chronicles. Cost is $20 to participate for an individual, $15 for Buffalo Audubon members. Complete at least 20 of 30 winter birding challenge tasks. outsidechronicles.com/winbirdlogin/ Feb. 4-5 Fly Tying Demo at Cabelas, Cheektowagabeing given by the Lake Erie Chapter of Fly Fishers International from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Feb. 5 Gun Show at the Alexander Firemans Rec Hall, 10708 Alexander Road (Route 98), Alexander from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. 100 tables. Admission $5. nfgshows.com. Feb. 5 Winter trap shooting at Hartland Conservation Club, Orangeport Road, Gasport, starting at 10 a.m. Breakfast is served at 9 a.m. Open to the public. Call 772-7390 for more info. Feb. 5 WNY Winter 3-D League Shoot at Glen Coe Conservation, 9869 Foote Road, Glenwood. Cost is $10 per week. For more info, www.collinsconservation.com. Pat 438-8601. Feb. 5 Niagara Frontier Winter 3-D Archery League at Wood and Brook Sportsmens Club, 13712 Genesee Street, Alden. Sign-in times are from 8 a.m. to noon. Five different clubs will be involved, rotating each week. For more information, call John Floriano at 725-5822 or Marty at 870-2653. Feb. 6 Citizens Against Wind Turbines Open Meeting at the Southtowns Walleye Association clubhouse, 5895 Southwestern Blvd., Hamburg starting at 6:45 p.m. Feb. 7 Lake Ontario Charter Boat Association monthly meeting at the Irondequoit Fish and Game Club, 658 Bay Front S, Rochester starting at 7 p.m. Feb. 7 Niagara Musky Association monthly meeting, Eldredge Club, 17 Broad Street, Tonawanda starting at 7 p.m. Feb. 7-8 3-F Club Indoor Archery Scratch League continues at 904 Swann Road, Lewiston every Tuesday, and Wednesday from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. for non-members (members can shoot anytime). Contact Ryan Lucas at 628-8194 or Dave Cosgrove at 946-6625. Feb. 9 - Lake Erie Chapter of Fly Fishers International monthly meeting, from 6 to 8 p.m. at Orvis Buffalo, 4545 Transit Road, Amherst. Program will be selecting hackles for fly tying. lecflyfisher.com Feb. 9 Allied Sportsmen Indoor 3D Archery Shoots continue through March 30 at 12846 Clinton Street, Alden starting at 6:30 p.m. For more info contact Kevin Ulrich at 655-6028 or John Floriano at 725-5822. Feb. 11 Fly Tying 101 at Orvis Buffalo,4545 Transit Road in Williamsville from 10 a.m. to noon. Learn the basics of tying a working fly. Every Saturday through March 4. Sign up online at https://stores.orvis.com/us/new-york/williamsville. For more info call 276-7200. Feb. 11 First Saturday Stream Explorers will be starting at St. John Paul II Church, 2052 Lakeview Road, Lake View from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. each Saturday. This will be hosted by Cub Scout Pack 591 and WNY Trout Unlimited. This is family-friendly, free, and open to the public. For more info email outreach@wnytroutunlimited.org. Feb. 11 35th Annual Harry A. Smith Dinner/Dance/Awards at 5895 Southwestern Blvd., Hamburg starting at 5:30 p.m. $45 tickets, pre-sale only. Call Mike at 983-2757. Feb. 11 North Forest Rod and Gun Club ladies Shoot N Hoot program, 6257 Old Niagara Road, Lockport. Beginner shotgun shooting at 1 p.m. Register in advance. Call Colleen at 628-9023. Feb. 12 Winter trap shooting at Hartland Conservation Club, Orangeport Road, Gasport, starting at 10 a.m. Breakfast is served at 9 a.m. Open to the public. Call 772-7390 for more info. Feb. 12 WNY Winter 3-D League Shoot at Collins Conservation, 2636 Conger Road, Collins. Cost is $10 per week. For more info, www.collinsconservation.com. Chris 628-4023. Feb. 12 Niagara Frontier Winter 3-D Archery League at Double T Archery Club, 1120 North Forest Road, Amherst. Sign-in times are from 8 a.m. to noon. Five different clubs will be involved, rotating each week. For more information, call John Floriano at 725-5822 or Doug at 563-7532. Feb. 14 Erie County Trappers Association monthly meeting, 7:30 p.m., Hamburg Rod and Gun Club, Hickox Road. Focus will be on fur preparation and equipment. For more info, call Patti at 337-2556. Feb. 16-19 Greater Niagara Fishing and Outdoor Expo at the Niagara Falls Convention Center, 101 Old Falls St., Niagara Falls. Check the website out at niagarafishingexpo.com for details on more than 200 seminars and 170 vendors. Feb. 16 Southtowns Walleye Association of WNY monthly meeting at the clubhouse, 5895 Southwestern Blvd., Hamburg at 7 p.m. Feb. 17 Ten X Shooting Club Junior Shooting Program for ages 9 to 20. Club is located at 853 Ransom Road, Lancaster. First-time shooters arrive at 6 p.m. for instruction. Shooting at 6:30 p.m. Air rifles for 9 and up; .22lr for ages 12-20. Everything is provided by the club. Cost is $5 per night, which includes ammo. Membership not required. For more info visit tenxshootingclub.com. Feb. 18 Raw Fur Auction at Hinsdale Fire Hall, 3832 Main Street, Hinsdale. Furs checked in at 7 a.m. Sale starts at 10 a.m. Call Kevin Parker at 474-7251 for info. Feb. 20 New deadline for submitting nominations to the NYS Outdoorsman Hall of Fame. nysohof.org. Submit calendar items to billhiltsjr@gmail.com at least three weeks in advance. CROWN POINT The Crown Point Police Department will bring back its "Adopt A Car" program, which allows local businesses to sponsor a police vehicle. Businesses can have a bumper sticker with their name placed on the rear of a squad car for four years, according to a news release from the city of Crown Point. This program allows local businesses to show their support for our officers while receiving visibility in Crown Point and Northwest Indiana, Crown Point Police Chief Ryan Patrick said. Our department would not be successful without the support of our community and partnerships with local businesses. Businesses interested in participating are asked to make a donation of $2,000 to the department. Four squad cars are eligible for the program. Participating businesses will receive a customized plaque with a color photo of their sponsored police car, logo placement on all National Night Out event promotion materials and a social media spotlight, according to the release. The program began in 1995 to help offset costs of equipping squad cars with necessary emergency equipment. Fill out this online form or call the police department at 219-662-3247 to apply. VALPARAISO NextEra Energy plans to bring a new kind of farming to the tiny community of Malden. Along with corn and soybeans, the company plans to harvest solar energy. The company plans to invest $300 million to $350 million for a 200-megawatt facility. Thats the equivalent of powering about 65,000 homes, NextEras Matthew Johnson told Valparaiso Chamber of Commerce members at a breakfast meeting Thursday. Building the project would create 300 construction jobs, he said. The solar panels would be set up on land between Ind. 49 and Smoke Road south of County Road 150 South. Eight property owners have already signed leases; one or two are still interested, Johnson said. Malden Solar, as its called, would generate about $30 million in property taxes over the life of the solar farm, which probably would be 30 years, he said. The company is hoping to lease 2,000 acres, fencing about 950 of them and covering 350 to 400 acres with bifacial solar panels. Bifacial solar panels can capture sunlight on the front and back. Traditional opaque panels capture sunlight on one side. The solar panels dont pollute, Johnson said: Were absorbing sunlight. Were not heating anything. We feel great about this. We have zero environmental concerns. With the solar panels in place, the soil will have a 30-year rest from farming. The site would be maintained well, Johnson said. We dont want tall weeds. We dont want snakes or anything like that. The panels are made overseas because there arent enough being produced in the United States to meet demand, he said. Construction would likely begin in spring 2024. The project will require necessary permits from the county. A bond would be posted to ensure that the site is decommissioned properly regardless of NextEra Energys financial situation, Johnson said. When the 30-year period is up, the site could continue to be used for a solar installation if the landowners are OK with renewing the lease and if new permits could be obtained. That has happened in some places out west. Malden Solar is one of the new solar projects planned in the Region. NextEra has announced a $1 billion installation near Dunns Bridge in Jasper and Starke counties that would generate an estimated 700 megawatts. NextEra also plans Cavalry Solar in White County, generating 200 megawatts. Doral Renewables Mammoth Solar project in Pulaski County plans to produce 1.3 gigawatts, the largest solar field in the United States. Theres no fuel cost. The sun doesnt cost anything, Johnson said. The solar panels at Malden would be monitored 24/7, Johnson said. Any damaged panels would be replaced the next day. Panels could be shifted so they would let snow and ice slide off during heavy winter storms. A public hearing on the project is planned for Feb. 27 at the Expo Center, 215 E. Division Road in Valparaiso, Johnson said. This review contains spoilers for the novel The Three-Body Problem and the television series Three-Body. Theres no way around it. The highly acclaimed trilogy of Chinese science-fiction novels collectively known as Three-Body, in which Earth is threatened with invasion by technologically superior aliens, is generally understood to reflect historical Chinese anxieties about Western domination. Which makes it a little amusing that, 17 years after the story was first serialized, the books are about to get more attention than ever because of a big-budget American adaptation, due later this year on Netflix. Comments about appropriation and cultural sensitivity will start to pour in minutes after the episodes are posted. In the meantime, little attention is being paid in the United States to an ambitious Chinese series, Three-Body, that has beaten Netflixs 3 Body Problem to the screen. No trade barriers or worries about state secrets here: The 30 episodes of Three-Body are premiering on Rakuten Viki in the United States, with subtitles in English (among many other languages), on the same day they appear in China, where they are reportedly setting viewing records for Tencents WeTV streaming service. Outside of the sci-fi fan base, however, they dont appear to be causing a ripple in America. (The 21st episode arrived on Friday; early episodes can be watched free with ads.) The books author, Liu Cixin, has endorsed the Netflix series (hes a consulting producer), though the shows largely non-Chinese cast indicates that it tinkers significantly with his story. He doesnt appear to have been involved with the Chinese series, but one of its hallmarks the subject of many approving viewer comments on Rakuten Viki is its faithfulness, in broad outline, to the trilogys first novel, The Three-Body Problem, on which it is based. A Eurasian eagle-owl named Flaco was the subject of an intense rescue effort late Friday after getting loose as a result of vandals having damaged his Central Park Zoo enclosure the night before, parks and zoo officials said. As darkness loomed and temperatures plunged, a small crowd of bird watchers equipped with binoculars, professional-grade cameras and tripods stood clustered on a path in the parks southeast corner. They tried to get a look at the orange-and-black-striped bird of prey while zoo workers and park rangers moved through the trees toward his perch on a tall branch. Patience is the key thing, a zoo employee said. The rescue drama played out nearly 24 hours after zoo workers discovered that Flaco was missing and that the stainless steel mesh around his enclosure had been cut, zoo officials said. At that point, the zoo said in a statement, a team was mobilized to search for the bird. Passers-by and police officers spotted the owl on Fifth Avenue, but he soon flew off. He was later seen in a tree near 59th Street, where he spent the night as zoo workers kept an eye on him from the ground below. A New Jersey construction company executive has pleaded guilty to federal charges of violating safety rules at a Hudson Valley work site where a worker was killed when a concrete wall collapsed in 2017, officials said. The executive, Finbar ONeill, the principal owner of Onekey, LLC, endangered workers safety at the site by taking shortcuts and sidestepping safety regulations, prosecutors said. The negligence led to the death of Maximiliano Saban, an employee of a subcontractor on the job, prosecutors said. A second worker was injured. The guilty plea, entered on Thursday, should serve as a reminder to all businesses that failure to comply with safety regulations endangers their workers and unfairly disadvantages business that are following the rules, Damian Williams, the U.S. attorney for the Southern District of New York, said in a statement. Mr. ONeill, whose company was the general contractor on the project, pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor count of willful violation of regulations resulting in a death, prosecutors said. He faces up to six months in prison and a maximum fine of $250,000 when he is sentenced in May. The company pleaded to the same charge and faces a fine of up to $500,000. Maybe Im a bad person, but I dont want to suffer for Ukraine. ALI MIRZAYEV, a Russian-speaking hotelier and tour operator who works in the spa town of Karlovy Vary, in the Czech Republic, where he said Russians used to make up the bulk of his customers. The Czech government has barred Russians from visiting the country as tourists. Page A1. Two men suspected of slaying four generations of the same family, including a 10-month-old baby, were captured on Friday near the house where the grisly crime occurred last month in the Central Valley of California, according to the authorities. The attack in the wee hours of Jan. 16 left six people dead after they were shot execution-style at close range, a set of killings so brutal that residents accustomed to local gang violence said they were in disbelief. A 16-year-old and her baby boy were shot in the head after trying to flee. The victims also included a 72-year-old grandmother and a 19-year-old man who enjoyed playing video games late at night. Angel Nanu Uriarte, 35, was arrested on Friday morning after a gunfight with federal officers in Goshen, the tiny town along Highway 99 where the murders took place. Noah David Beard, 25, was taken into custody without incident in Visalia, the city next to Goshen in Tulare County. Mr. Uriarte, who was injured in the shooting with agents from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, was rushed to a hospital where he remained in stable condition. The Tulare County district attorneys office has charged both suspects, who have criminal histories, with six counts of murder and other special allegations, including committing murder to further the activities of street gangs and using firearms despite being prohibited to own them as felons. Matthew Gibbs, a lawyer for the states Health Department, had asked the emergency medical services board to hold a special meeting to suspend the E.M.T.s, ensuring they cannot work as E.M.T.s in the state. The suspension issued on Friday was temporary, and the board will hold a hearing over whether to issue a full suspension at a later time. Dennis Rowe, an ambulance service operator on the board, said there was every reason to believe that the E.M.T.s inaction may have contributed to the demise of that patient. Mr. Rowe and another board member suggested that they may also want to suspend the licenses of any additional emergency medical workers, such as supervisors, if they had not intervened to get Mr. Nichols help. Dr. Smith, the chairman, said that the states investigation into the treatment of Mr. Nichols was continuing. Video footage from a police surveillance camera that captured the beating and much of the emergency medical response was played for the board. It showed that a handcuffed Mr. Nichols, whom the police had punched, kicked and struck with a baton, repeatedly fell over while propped up against a police car. The E.M.T.s helped Mr. Nichols sit up a few times, but then largely left him alone, not touching him for long periods of time and, at one point, walking away for about 30 seconds as Mr. Nichols rolled around on the ground. When they first arrived, body camera video captured them asking a police officer to shine a light on Mr. Nichols, and one of the E.M.T.s also appeared to ask if any of the police officers knew his name. Meanwhile, police officers were claiming that Mr. Nichols must be on drugs no evidence has emerged to suggest this and, a few feet away, some were laughing as they recounted their assault. For some, the issue was not so much whether the balloon should have been left to linger over Montana, but why it was allowed to get there in the first place. The state is home to Malmstrom Air Force Base and its 150 intercontinental ballistic missile silos. We should take care of our security a lot better, said Chet Cole, who works at the Marble Table restaurant in Billings. If a balloon makes it this far to Montana, then somebodys not doing a job with national security. And if anyone in Montana has experience in dealing with unexpected visitors from above, or at least pretending to, it is the Montana cattle rancher Bill Pullman, better known to many as the actor who played the president in the 1996 alien invasion film Independence Day. It was a wake-up call for me and probably for a lot of people in Montana, Mr. Pullman said Friday. The state can feel too remote to be in harms way if there were a war, but in fact it could very likely be the frontline of a nuclear first strike. Fortunately I think most Montanans have a restraint that keeps things like unruly horses and floating hot-air balloons from causing a bad wreck. Brian Schweitzer, a former governor of Montana, said he understood peoples concern. In Montana, we dont like people peeking over our fences, he said. WASHINGTON Republicans on Friday issued their first subpoenas of the Biden administration since taking control of the House, demanding documents for an investigation into whether the government mistreated parents who were scrutinized after school officials endured threats and harassment over mask mandates and teaching about racism. Just two days after the Judiciary Committee was organized for the new Congress, Representative Jim Jordan, Republican of Ohio and the panels chairman, sent subpoenas to Merrick B. Garland, the attorney general, F.B.I. Director Christopher Wray and Miguel A. Cardona, the secretary of education, accusing them of withholding information about whether the government overreached in scrutinizing parents. It was a clear signal that leaders of the new Republican-controlled House, who have said they will investigate the weaponization of government against conservatives, are wasting little time in using their power to take aim at the Biden administration and plan to use their gavels to stoke culture wars over divisive issues. Politically charged debates over coronavirus mandates and the teaching of the history of racism in the United States have become particularly bitter flash points in schools in recent years, opening school board members, educators and administrators to increasingly fearsome threats and harassment. Republicans contend that in investigating some of those incidents, the Justice Department has victimized and attempted to silence conservative parents. Research Report Explores the Aftermath of the 'Great Resignation' and the State of Upskilling Ed tech company Cengage Group has released a follow-up to its 2022 report examining why workers quit their jobs during 2021 in what has been coined "The Great Resignation." In this 2023 sequel report, "Where Are They Now? The Great Resigners, One Year Later," the researchers examine in more depth the reasons why workers quit, and provide updates on resigners' new careers, job satisfaction, and recession fears, with implications for higher education. The 2022 report, "From The Great Resignation to the Great Reskilling: Insight on What's Next for the Great Resigners," found that many companies changed their hiring practices in order to attract employees by not requiring degrees (looking at skills and potential instead), making professional development available, and allowing remote work. A significant percentage of the 1,200 workers polled during the last half of 2021 had examined their personal life/work balance and found it wanting. In addition, many workers were reskilling and moving into new industries. Cengage's 2023 report, "Where Are They Now? The Great Resigners, One Year Later," again surveyed 1,200 workers they called the "Great Resigners" to find out where they went, whether they upskilled and/or switched industries, and whether they felt more job satisfaction, especially in light of the recession. The report outlined several key takeaways: Workers had little regret for resigning. Eighty-one percent said they do not regret leaving their jobs, and 85% said they are happy in their new positions. Half had stayed in the same industry, and half had switched. Jobs in technology accounted for 21% of their new roles. Upskilling opportunities are a key factor in acquiring and retaining employees. The prospect of employer-paid online training and upskilling caused 66% of respondents to switch jobs, and 89% said they will take advantage of it. Of those leaving their former jobs, 56% said their employers did not offer these opportunities, 30% said the new jobs offered a "clear path to growth and development," and 27% said their new company's values were similar to their own. The Great Resignation has led to the Great Retraining. Of those in new tech roles, 77% took online training courses, and 89% felt that led to their new jobs. Of interest to higher education institutions: Resigners are also "opting for shorter bursts of learning. More than half of the respondents who took an online training or class (62%) completed it in less than three months, while 31% enrolled in three- to six-month-long programs," the report noted. A recession could cause the next big worker shift. Despite finding new jobs, 71% of workers fear a potential recession could negatively impact them. Even though healthcare is considered "recession proof," 84% of those workers feel they could be negatively impacted. "The Great Resignation was a wake-up call to leaders that we must prioritize a greater connection between work and mission, provide clear career trajectories and opportunities for upward mobility to ensure our workers have the skills needed to sustain challenges and move into the future," said Michael E. Hansen, CEO, Cengage Group. "Losing sight of these important employee priorities can have an impact on culture and the bottom line. As we continue to face economic uncertainties, businesses should be focused on growing and empowering top talent, including creating connections with local education institutions and other partners to further opportunities for current and prospective talent." The Cengage Group is a global ed tech company with a portfolio of education businesses that support students from middle school through graduate school and skills education. Visit the company's "What We Do" page to learn more about what it offers. European Union leaders met in Kyiv on Friday with President Volodymyr Zelensky and delivered a symbolic embrace of Ukraine as it fights for survival against Russia, but they withheld a prize Mr. Zelensky dearly wants, accelerated membership in the bloc. Their visit came as Russian and Ukrainian forces battle for control of Bakhmut, a small eastern city where an intense, monthslong struggle has cost both sides immense losses. Mr. Zelensky vowed that Ukraine would not give up on Bakhmut, calling it our fortress. E.U. leaders walked a careful line at a Friday news conference with Mr. Zelensky, validating Kyivs aspiration to join and reiterating their commitment to supporting Ukraine, but gently applying the brakes on talk of fast-track membership. They noted the $50 billion in financial, humanitarian and military support that the European Union and member countries have pledged so far, and vowed more to come. Europe is with you for as long as it takes until the day when the Ukrainian flag will be raised where it belongs: in Brussels at the heart of the European Union, said Ursula von der Leyen, president of the E.U. executive branch, the European Commission. But, she added: The accession process is a merit-based process. In other words, there are no rigid timelines. But there are goals that you have to reach. Questions about the future of art criticism and how it might survive another season of layoffs and corporate mergers have dogged the International Association of Art Critics, a nonprofit organization based in Paris that represents more than 6,000 art writers worldwide including some 500 critics, art historians and scholars in the United States. Six board members nearly half its leadership team have resigned in recent months from the organizations American chapter, with most citing its failure to enact a diversity plan that members had supported since the George Floyd protests in 2020. The plan included award and fellowship opportunities for writers of color, as well as a revised mission statement reflecting the organizations commitment to social justice. No aspect of that plan has been implemented yet, the critic Seph Rodney and the art historian Aaron Levy wrote in a joint resignation letter sent to the board of AICA-USA in January. All indications are that it has essentially been shelved. They added that AICA-USA was moribund and loyal to the time when art criticism and writing was a niche, privileged, recherche endeavor. We insist that it does not need to be this. The International Association of Art Critics was created in 1950 to revive cultural discourse after World War II, and it became a force in subsequent years with influential members like Dore Ashton and John Perreault. But the organization has been weakened by decades of media cutbacks that diminished the number of art critics with staff positions on newspapers and magazines. Although he was untrained in art, Mr. Terna began to draw at Theresienstadt and became part of a group of artists there who scrounged for good paper and any raw material they could turn into ink. He buried his sketches of everyday life there like people lining up for soup in a tin box under the barracks floor. Before being deported to Auschwitz in September 1944, Mr. Terna gave his drawings to another prisoner, believing he would never see them again. He had spent only two months in Auschwitz when he was sent to Kaufering, a subcamp of Dachau. After an unsuccessful escape attempt, he was liberated by American troops on April 27, 1945. Sick and weighing only 70 pounds, Mr. Terna convalesced at a hospital, where he began painting scenes from Auschwitz, as well as landscapes. Much later, looking at my landscapes I noticed that there were walls and fences in many of them, he was quoted as saying by the Defiant Requiem Foundation, which honors the prisoners of Theresienstadt. It taught me that the memory of the Shoah was a part of me, and that it would not go away, and that I would have to live with it. His father died in Auschwitz, and his brother died in the Treblinka extermination camp. After returning to Prague, Mr. Terna reunited with Ms. Horner, his girlfriend. They married in 1946 and moved to Paris, where he studied art and worked as a bookkeeper for the Joint Distribution Committee, a Jewish relief agency. They left for Canada in 1951 and later moved to Manhattan. (They divorced in 1975.) Mr. Terna was not part of the Abstract Expressionist movement that had taken hold after the war, but he adapted it to his artistic vision, particularly in his use of sand and pebbles to create texture in his canvases. In addition to his Holocaust art, which he began in the 1980s, he painted circles as symbols of lifes continuity and representational pieces depicting angels and biblical stories like that of Abraham and Isaac. Follow our live coverage of the 2023 Grammy Awards. After two years of pandemic-related disruptions, the 65th annual Grammy Awards are returning on Sunday to their longtime home at the Crypto.com Arena (formerly the Staples Center) in Los Angeles. The nights big story is Beyonce. With 28 Grammy wins to her name, the star could become the most decorated Grammy artist ever. She needs three wins to tie, and four to beat the conductor Georg Solti, who holds the record for most overall wins. Her field-leading nine nominations this year include the three top categories album, song and record of the year where she has previously struggled to win. The Recording Academy, the institution behind the awards, has faced longstanding criticism that the show often fails to recognize Black talent with its biggest awards. Over the past few years, it has been trying to address that by eliminating nearly all of the nominating committees that determined the ballot and pushing to attract a younger and more diverse pool of voters. A bad night for Beyonce, who enters the ceremony with an adored album in Renaissance, a famously vocal fan base known as the BeyHive and only one career win in an all-genre category, could mean more hard conversations for the Grammys. Gautam Adani began the year as one of the richest men who ever lived, an upstart billionaire whose conglomerate, one of Indias largest, had surged in value by 2,500 percent in five years. That rise, as he portrayed it, wasnt his alone: It was inseparable from the growth story of India itself. His companies goals were in lock step with the countrys needs, he often said. Relying on his longstanding partnership with Indias powerful leader, Narendra Modi, he brought his private companies spanning power, ports, food and more into alignment with one politician more closely than any business titan before him. Now, in spectacular fashion, the fortunes of his Adani Group are crashing down even faster than they had shot up a collapse whose pain will be felt across the country, rippling through its economic and political spheres. More than $110 billion in market value roughly half of the Adani Groups worth has vanished in just over a week, like air from a burst balloon. The pinprick was a report by a small New York investment firm, Hindenburg Research, whose description of brazen accounting fraud and stock manipulation sent investors fleeing, just as the Adani Group was beginning a sale of new shares to investors, Indias biggest-ever secondary share offering. Bob Born, a Pennsylvania confectioner who brought the marshmallow candies known as Peeps to Easter baskets nationwide and incidentally launched a pop-culture phenomenon in which people consume, dismember, microwave and even dress them up by the millions every spring died on Jan. 29 at his home in Conshohocken, Pa. He was 98. His son, Ross, who succeeded him at the helm of Just Born Quality Confections, confirmed the death. Mr. Borns company, which his father founded and which he led for more than 30 years, produces a variety of candies its best seller is Mike and Ike, the bullet-shaped fruit chews but Peeps are by far its most recognized, and its best loved. Thanks to mass-production equipment that Mr. Born designed, the company makes more than 5.5 million Peeps a day, or close to two billion a year, the vast majority of which sell in the months leading up to Easter. Most Peeps get eaten, sometimes in public displays of gluttony: In 2017 Matt Stonie ate 255 Peeps in just five minutes, breaking his own previous world record of 200. Some people like to gobble them fresh from the package; others let them age for a few days. Some use them in smores; others put them on pizza; a few intrepid souls infuse them into vodka. Until recently, the European Commission was often seen as the toughest antitrust regulator, taking a more expansive view of what could harm competition. On the other end of the spectrum was the United States, where decades of precedent leaned toward a more limited view of the kinds of deals that should be blocked. And so deal makers believed that if they could appease the European Union with a behavioral remedy, their transaction was likely to survive global scrutiny. That has changed. Britains Competition and Markets Authority, which was established in 2014, has positioned itself as pushing for tougher powers after Brexit, presenting itself as a check on Big Tech and other corporate giants. In the United States, President Biden has appointed antitrust officials Lina Khan of the F.T.C. and Jonathan Kanter of the Justice Departments antitrust division who have expansive takes on regulating competition. Khan, in particular, has championed cracking down on mergers and Big Tech, and she has said she is willing to take on tough-to-win cases to help stretch the boundaries of antitrust law. Cracking down on consolidation, especially in Big Tech, is politically popular on both the right and left, and antitrust cases are getting more attention from the public. One former enforcement official, who asked not to be named because his employer had not authorized him to comment, put it this way to DealBook: Regulators would rather fight to block a deal and lose than accept a compromise, because the political cost of agreement is too steep. Alignment across The Atlantic The F.T.C. opposed Microsofts bid to acquire Activision in a lawsuit filed in December. Microsofts legal team also expects the antitrust authority in Britain to oppose the transaction, while it believes the European Commission is open to potential remedies, according to four people briefed on the matter who were not authorized to speak publicly. Microsoft said that it believes it has a strong case in Britain and it has not predetermined, nor been advised by its lawyers, that the merger will be blocked. Some of these people said that Microsoft was hoping to convince both Britain and the European Union to accept its concessions and approve the deal, which could make it easier for the company to reach an agreement with the F.T.C. before the scheduled administrative trial starts in the summer. If all of the agencies accept the compromise, the (perhaps wishful) thinking goes, none of them will look weak on Big Tech. That logic also works in reverse: Any of the three agencies could instead put pressure on the others to oppose the acquisition. Federal prosecutors are scrutinizing a growing array of people tied to Sam Bankman-Frieds collapsed cryptocurrency empire, including his father, his brother and former colleagues, as part of a rapidly expanding investigation into one of the biggest American financial crime cases in more than a decade, according to 13 people with knowledge of the inquiry. The U.S. attorneys office in Manhattan has created a special task force to pursue its investigation into the collapse of FTX, the crypto exchange founded by Mr. Bankman-Fried. More than half a dozen prosecutors, led by Damian Williams, the U.S. attorney for the Southern District of New York, are building the criminal case and tracking down the billions of dollars in customer money that Mr. Bankman-Fried has been charged with misappropriating. In recent weeks, prosecutors have had talks with lawyers representing a dozen former executives and employees at FTX and Alameda Research, the hedge fund Mr. Bankman-Fried also founded, 11 people with knowledge of the inquiry said. Prosecutors have also examined the role of Mr. Bankman-Frieds family members in his business empire, six people with knowledge of the matter said. Since the governors of Texas and Florida began sending migrants northward in acts of political theater last spring, the city of New York has received close to 44,000 asylum seekers, a number greater than the populations of SoHo and TriBeCa combined. According to City Hall, there have been 12,000 new arrivals during the past month alone. While New York has welcomed great numbers of immigrants into its ecosystem each year for centuries there are more than three million foreign-born people living in the city now, responsible for close to a quarter of the citys gross domestic product it has not confronted a situation where so many people have come in such rapid sequence without the traditional pathways to integration. Typically, someone moving to the city from the Dominican Republic or West Africa might land with connections to a church group, or to friends and family already established here; there is likely a network that can connect you to a job and a room in a crowded basement apartment in Queens or the Bronx. But so many have arrived here by perverse happenstance in recent months. Whether they have ended up in New York against their will or because of departures made in desperation and haste they are without the sort of plans accompanying a more deliberate resettlement. This is unprecedented territory. The fact of more than 40,000 immigrants coming to the city over a short stretch of time is not the problem, as one city official put it to me, it is that so many are entering the already burdened shelter system at once. The depth and severity of the crisis, unfolding in the midst of the citys housing emergencies, cannot be overstated it is as if two natural disasters were occurring simultaneously. When Eric Adams took office as mayor in January last year, before the influx of migrants from the border began, there were roughly 45,000 people in the shelter system; that figure has since grown by 71 percent to 77,000. Beyond its sheer scope, the migrant crisis is remarkable for its relative obscurity to so many New Yorkers, who encounter homelessness in their daily lives with uncomfortable regularity, but who have not had as much direct experience with the latest wave of immigrants. In the nations capital, blocks from the White House, scores of sharply dressed Americans mingled Thursday night over cocktails and collard greens, a glittering coming-out party for the College Boards first advanced placement course in African American studies. At the party, a formal affair of educators and donors held at the National Museum of African American History and Culture, jazz was played, and a woman in a gold dress sang Lift Every Voice and Sing, known as the Black national anthem. And then the topic on everyones mind came up. Board officials tried to assure the crowd that they had not bent to censorious political pressure from the countrys increasingly brazen right wing. If this were true, it would be a terrible stain on this country and on the College Board, said the College Boards C.E.O., David Coleman. But in fact, when the College Board unveiled the final curriculum for the AP course the day before, it turned out that the board had removed from the core material a handful of vital Black thinkers and some important subject matter. They downgraded the study of Black Lives Matter, of reparations, of queer life and of incarceration. They removed prominent writers like Ta-Nehisi Coates and bell hooks, who have helped so many people understand the relationship between race, class and feminism. In western Wisconsins rural Pepin County, there is one mental health therapist, no psychiatrist and a growing need for both. Residents in the county of just over 7,000 people are used to traveling 25 minutes to Menomonie or 40 minutes to Eau Claire for mental health care, but it can take three months for patients to be seen in those cities, said Carol Pulkrabek, who supervises Pepin Countys child welfare programs and social workers. Those long waits and the lack of psychiatrists exacerbate peoples mental health issues, Pulkrabek said. And I dont think that is unique to Pepin County, she added. Like most counties across Wisconsin, Pepin County is simultaneously experiencing a mental health care provider shortage and an increasing need for them. For most people in rural America, finding a place to get mental health treatment and then finding funding are the biggest challenges, said Donna Juleff, Pepin Countys only mental health therapist. The problem is especially acute among children and youths. About a third of students across Wisconsin feel sad and hopeless almost every day, a 10% increase over the last decade, according to the Office of Childrens Mental Health. And half of Wisconsin youths with a diagnosed mental health condition receive no treatment, the office found. Our referrals right now for kids are absolutely increasing, Pulkrabek said. In our mental health programs, we serve more kids than we do adults. Getting a child psychiatrist is virtually impossible. They fill up immediately. Evers appeal Citing such challenges, Democratic Gov. Tony Evers in his State of the State address last month called 2023 the year of mental health. He said he would seek to devote $500 million in his upcoming 2023-25 biennial budget to addressing deficiencies in mental health treatment. Over half of that would be directed toward children and youths. But while lawmakers on both sides of the aisle agree on the need to address the problem, they remain sharply divided over the role government should play and how much taxpayer money should go toward addressing it. Responding to the governors proposal, which would need Republican support in the Legislature to become law, Assembly Speaker Robin Vos, R-Rochester, said Evers proposal to put over half of the mental health spending in schools is not going to happen. Sen. Jesse James, R-Altoona, who chairs the Senate Committee on Mental Health, Substance Abuse Prevention, Children and Families, said the governor and the Legislature agree that we need to do something. Now, whether or not its $500 million, I think (a solution) still needs to be discussed and compromised and negotiated, he continued. Whats next? More than half of Evers $500 million mental health proposal $270 million would go to the Department of Public Instruction for school-based mental health services. The money would be used to provide mental health care, hiring and supporting mental health navigators, and providing mental health first aid and trauma-based care training. But James said the crisis isnt an educational issue. I think there needs to be more discussions and seeing what the true big picture looks like when it comes to this type of money going in directly to our schools, James said. Maybe the Department of Health Services should take some. I think our hospitals and clinics should be able to use some. Other Republican lawmakers are open to the money going into schools. While emphasizing he wanted to avoid government overreach, Rep. Pat Snyder, R-Schofield, who chairs the Legislative Childrens Caucus, said the one thing we can do ... is make sure there is some extra funding for school counseling. Snyder said Evers math, however, is based on unrealistic policies that he knows will not be part of the final budget. Pitch for schools Assembly Minority Leader Greta Neubauer, D-Racine, said the money proposed for DPI is absolutely necessary. Students deserve a dedicated mental health professional they can reliably turn to in times of need, she said. If Republicans have alternative solutions, Im interested in learning what they are, but I am unwilling to allow the mental health needs of Wisconsinites, especially our kids, to go unmet. Children and youths exposed to trauma are more likely to perform poorly in school, have diminished educational and employment opportunities, and be at increased risk for chronic medical and mental health conditions, and early death, a group of researchers found in an 2017 study published in the Journal of School Health. Besides preventing trauma in the first place, high quality, accessible and culturally responsive mental health screening and treatment services are urgently needed for children and adolescents, specifically within school settings, the researchers stated. If schools had more money to pay therapists, it would eliminate mental health providers worry about getting insurance companies to reimburse them for their services, Juleff said. Bed shortage Separate from the $270 million for DPI, Evers proposed 28 separate allocations to the DHS under the mental health umbrella. That includes $3 million for the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline call center and a $1.8 million investment to establish a 25-bed psychiatric residential treatment facility for youths with intensive behavioral health needs. About 35 psychiatric beds are needed per 100,000 people, according to a 2021 study in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. Wisconsin has fewer beds than needed, the study says. One bright spot is in the Madison area. With Dane Countys population of about 565,000, it would need about 200 beds to meet the studys standards. The Madison area is soon expected to have nearly 300 mental health beds, up from about 100 a few years ago. But another study in the journal Molecular Psychiatry last year said 30 beds per 100,000 people is the minimum number needed, while the optimal number is 60 beds, which in Dane County would be about 340 beds. Few or no beds are available in rural counties near Madison, which arguably increases the need. Under Evers proposal, another $4 million would go toward expanding the states Child Psychiatry Consultation Program, which provides training and support to primary care providers dealing with childrens mental health, into a broader Mental Health Consultation Program, according to the governors office. Pandemic impact The COVID-19 pandemic has put a spotlight on and, in some cases, exacerbated mental health challenges across the state. Children are anxious and depressed more so than before, especially those little ones that were isolated for ... a year and a half with the pandemic, Juleff said. The ones who are pre-K and kindergarten, I think, are struggling a lot. Noting that childrens mental health crises began before COVID-19, Wisconsin Office of Childrens Mental Health director Linda Hall said in the groups annual report, The effects of the pandemic continued to weigh heavily on everyone. Children returning to in-person school faced the challenges of how to act in the classroom, how to be with peers, fill learning gaps, and manage the big feelings they were having because of these challenges and everything they and their families have been through, Hall said. In Pepin County, Durand-Arkansaw School District pupil services director Michelle Zagozen said the pandemic is to blame for many but not all of the mental health challenges students face. Students worry about the unknown increased during the pandemic, she said, and during school closures students were cut off from school services that could have helped them navigate their anxiety. In spite of it all, students are still achieving success, she said. In a lot of aspects, kids are doing well, and they were very resilient through the pandemic, she said. We just have to help them with some of these issues that are popping up. Embattled Republican Rep. George Santos will not serve on the two House committees to which he was assigned until a slew of investigations into his campaign and personal finances have concluded, he said in a statement Tuesday. CNBC, Jan. 31, 2023 Feb. 6, 2023 Statement from the Office of the Honorable George Santos For Immediate Release Representative George Santos (R-NY) today announced that he will no longer participate in media-orchestrated perp walks between his office in the Longworth House Office Building to the Capitol. I had hoped that these daily perambulations, in addition to fulfilling my Fitbit-mandated step requirements, would be occasions for me to ponder how to best to serve my constituents, Representative Santos said. Sadly, the left-wing-dominated media have made this impossible by turning them into Bataan Death Marches. Representative Santos will instead remain sequestered in his office except when needed for meetings with lawyers and investigators (and House votes). Feb. 8, 2023 BREAKING NEWS: SANTOS ALLEGES ASSAULT WASHINGTON Representative George Santos claimed on Monday that he was grievously wounded when a reporter attacked me with an iPhone as I was on my way to the Capitol to serve the needs of my constituents in New Yorks fabulous Third District. Santos said the assault caused severe trauma and necessitated being helicoptered to an unspecified hospital, where surgeons worked heroically on me for 9 hours to remove the iPhone embedded in my thorax. Santos said he would be withdrawing further from public view, remaining in his office at all times. Aides could be seen carrying a king-size mattress and an Xbox console into his House suite. Feb. 10, 2023 CITING TRAUMATIZED THORAX, SANTOS SAYS HE WILL BE UNABLE TO ANSWER ONGOING QUESTIONS FOR FORESEEABLE FUTURE WASHINGTON Representative George Santos said he would no longer be leaving his House office to meet with lawyers and investigators because he needs to recuperate further from recent injuries. I can only focus on the facts when Im laying down, under the covers, Mr. Santos said. Feb. 11, 2023 Statement from the Office of the Honorable George Santos For Immediate Release Representative George Santos (R-N.Y.) announced that because of his ongoing recovery after being viciously attacked by a member of the liberal media, he will be unable to attend his 15th class reunion at the Horace Mann School this spring. Santos expressed profound regret at not being able to participate in the joyous occasion and share memories with my classmates. Further, he said, My time at Horace Mann was literally unbelievable, adding that he continues to live up to Horace Manns admonishment that One should be ashamed to die until one has done something for humanity. Feb. 14, 2023 CITING PAIN FROM VOLLEYBALL KNEE SURGERIES, SANTOS WILL SKIP BARUCH BEARCATS PLAYOFF AGAINST MONTCLAIR STATE Feb. 17, 2023 LOCH NESS MONSTER AND YETI-THEMED JESTS PROLIFERATE AS CAPITOL HILL ASKS, WHERES GEORGE? Still-Embattled Representative Not Seen In Public Since Vacating Committee Seats Feb. 18, 2023 SPEAKER MCCARTHY UNCONCERNED BY SANTOS ABSENCE: WE KNOW HOW TO REACH HIM IF NEEDED Feb. 20, 2023 POLL: Majority of N.Y. Third District Voters Strongly Approve Of Santos Disappearance; Express Fervent Hope He Stays In D.C., Not L.I. Feb. 21, 2023 Statement from the Office of the Honorable George Santos For Immediate Release Representative George Santos (R-N.Y.) today announced, Contrary to reports in the Democrat-dominated media that I have been quote-unquote AWOL, I have been fully engaged, 24/7, working to serve the needs of New Yorks wonderful Third Congressional District. Mr. Santos stated, I am offering a new model of effective leadership less is more. The less you see of me, the more everyone will be happy. He expressed his heartfelt desire that he will someday be able to leave my office and visit with the amazing people of NY3, including the 77 percent whom pollsters falsely claim despise me. Feb. 23, 2023 Santos Says That He Will Continue To Work From Office, Pending Exoneration By House Ethics Committee, F.E.C., S.E.C., F.B.I., I.R.S., C.I.A., Capitol Police, Postal Service And U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Feb. 24, 2023 Uproar on Capitol Hill As C-SPAN Cameras Show Santos In Female Attire Casting Yea Vote To Strip Rep. Omar Of Committee Seats Feb. 25, 2023 House Speaker McCarthy Defends Santos Fashion Choice, Says Representative Was Only Trying To Maintain Low Profile Feb. 26, 2023 Santos Says He Has Obtained A New Invisibility Cloak; Youll Miss Me When Im Gone, Embattled Rep Says Christopher Buckleys books include Make Russia Great Again, Thank You for Smoking and his latest novel, Has Anyone Seen My Toes? Nina Erlich-Williams Corvallis, Ore. The writer is the parent of a transgender teen. To the Editor: Trans youth often wait to come out to their parents simply for need of space and time to understand their identities. Transition isnt a flick of a switch; its a complex, gradual, weaving journey of identity. My own transition started in high school. At what stage between my experimenting with makeup now and then to asking specific friends to call me Connie would I have officially, suddenly, socially transitioned? When should I have been robbed of the right to come out to my own family, to decide when to include them in my own process? I recognize the pain of well-meaning parents who feel that their child kept such a large secret from them. Yet with transition being a gradual process of experimentation, there is no big secret. Theres only kids slowly figuring out who they are, like all other kids. Maybe the demand of these parents, that their children must treat them as safe spaces to be told all, is itself what makes these kids feel unsafe. Connie Walden Amsterdam To the Editor: As a 38-year-old gay man, I know that when L.G.B.T.Q.+ students are outed to their parents, they may be beaten within an inch of their lives, left on the side of the road, abandoned to homelessness or forced into conversion therapy. These were my peers and friends, and I saw how many turned to drugs, shelters, sex work and suicide. The next phase of the Ukraine War, a new Russian offensive and a potential Ukrainian counteroffensive, seems all but inevitable for late winter or early spring. The logic of escalation is prevailing, the mutual belief that no peace deal is possible until the other side understands that it cant win. The Ukrainian hope for how this escalation ends was sketched out by Mykhailo Podolyak, a key adviser to President Volodymyr Zelensky, in a recent interview with Bruno Macaes for The New Statesman. Russia will embark on some minor offensive actions in a short period of time, Macaes summarizes. A lot of manpower will be lost. After that, it will face a series of significant defeats. This will lead to Russian unraveling: Major cities will be lost, some kind of military collapse will follow, and then there will be uncontrolled political transformation within the Russian Federation itself. Podolyak doesnt predict that all of this will happen this spring, suggesting that the timing depends on Western support. But with that support escalating, if hes right about the likelihood of total victory we should see its beginnings in the looming campaign, with real territorial turnover in Ukraines favor and signs of turmoil inside Russia. If thats what we end up seeing, then the American strategy will need to focus on the dilemmas of success: The perils of a desperate Russian nuclear gamble, spillover risks from any internal Russian power struggle and possible dangers from a still-more-nationalist successor regime. American communities need robust law enforcement, and the vast majority of police officers are public servants performing dangerous work with dedication. The footage of Memphis police officers killing Tyre Nichols in early January, however, is all the more unbearable because Americans have seen the likes of it so many times before. Too many Americans today live in fear that they may suffer abuse or excessive force at the hands of police officers who are sworn to protect them. Police officers killed 1,096 people in the United States last year, according to The Washington Post, which painstakingly tracks the death toll because the government does not keep a complete count. That was the most such deaths in any year since 2015. The victims, including Mr. Nichols, are disproportionately young Black men. To keep Americans safer, the federal government and state and local governments need to match continued investments in policing with reforms that make law enforcement agencies as a whole as well as individual officers more accountable to the communities that they serve. The single most important change Congress can make is to write out of existence the misbegotten legal doctrine of qualified immunity, which makes it unreasonably difficult to hold officers or agencies financially liable for misconduct. Under federal law, government officials can face civil lawsuits for violating a persons constitutional rights. But the Supreme Court has inserted an absolute shield, as Justice Sonia Sotomayor has called it, that effectively prevents police officers from facing this important tool for accountability by imposing a set of threshold tests that plaintiffs almost never meet. As Justice Sotomayor wrote in 2018, the current standard tells officers that they can shoot first and think later, and it tells the public that palpably unreasonable conduct will go unpunished. A recent spate of attacks on electrical substations in North Carolina and other states has underscored the continued vulnerability of the nations electrical grid, according to experts who warn that the power system has become a prime target for right-wing extremists. Over the last three months, at least nine substations have been attacked in North Carolina, Washington State and Oregon, cutting power to tens of thousands of people. After those attacks, federal regulators ordered a review of security standards for the electrical system. The F.B.I. on Friday said that it was offering two $25,000 rewards for information that leads to the conviction of those responsible for shooting and damaging two substations in Moore County, N.C., on Dec. 3 and for shooting at another substation in Randolph County, N.C., on Jan. 17. The Moore County attack caused 45,000 people to lose power, some for five days. Concerned about the sabotage, legislators in North Carolina, South Carolina and Arizona have introduced bills that would require 24-hour security at substations or toughen penalties for damaging them. It was only later, he said, after Mr. Nicholss death, that he read the news accounts and realized that the officers charged in that case were the same ones who had arrested him. Maurice Chalmers-Stokes, 19, described a similar encounter with the Scorpions: He was leaving the barbershop one day in October when he noticed an unmarked car starting to follow him. The people inside were wearing balaclavas, and he did not realize at first that they were police officers. They were coming at me aggressively and they didnt approach me how a regular officer should approach a person, Mr. Chalmers-Stokes said. I thought they were going to kill me. Mr. Chalmers-Stokes started running. He was bumped by the car, he said, but got up and tried to keep running. One of the officers tackled him to the ground. When he tackled me, I hit my head on a brick and skidded my head up, he said. When they put me in the handcuffs, he turned around like he was going to beat me, but another officer came and got him off me. The police said in the arrest affidavit that they had found Mr. Chalmers-Stokes walking in the middle of the street, and that when they searched his backpack, they found a Glock pistol, which they believed to be stolen. Mr. Chalmers-Stokes has said that the weapon was legally in his possession. His lawyer said that prosecutors had so far not produced any evidence to confirm the gun claim; prosecutors did not respond to a request to discuss the case. Mr. Chalmers-Stokes said he realized after Mr. Nicholss arrest that the officer who had been pulled off him was Demetrius Haley, one of those now charged in Mr. Nicholss fatal beating. It could have been me that died, he said. That could have been me in Tyre Nicholss situation. Live updates: The U.S. has shot down the Chinese spy balloon. WASHINGTON The Chinese spy balloon that floated across the continental United States before it was shot down by the U.S. military generated deep concern on Capitol Hill in part because it came on the heels of a classified report that outlined incidents of American adversaries potentially using advanced aerial technology to spy on the country. The classified report to Congress last month discussed at least two incidents of a rival power conducting aerial surveillance with what appeared to be unknown cutting-edge technology, according to U.S. officials. While the report did not attribute the incidents to any country, two American officials familiar with the research said the surveillance probably was conducted by China. The report on what the intelligence agencies call unidentified aerial phenomena focused on several incidents believed to be surveillance. Some of those incidents have involved balloons, while others have involved quadcopter drones. The Chinese government said on Friday the Chinese balloon discovered over the United States was mainly for weather research. However, American officials said they have assessed it to be a collection device, though not one that could gather the kind of sensitive information that advanced Chinese reconnaissance satellites already collect. WASHINGTON As far as spy thrillers go, this one unfolded pretty slowly: A giant Chinese spy balloon air-dawdled its way toward the Eastern Seaboard for several days until it was blown out of the sky on Saturday by the U.S. military. The lumbering orb, drifting at about 60,000 feet, did nothing to ease the tension between the United States and China as it took its time floating across the country and out to sea. People had time to think up some questions, including reporters who shouted Are you going to shoot down the balloon? at President Biden shortly before the dirigible came down. Were going to take care of it, the president told reporters in Syracuse, N.Y., where he was visiting family. As promised, on Saturday afternoon, the slow-moving caper finally reached its conclusion as U.S. fighter pilots fired a missile at the balloon over the Atlantic. WASHINGTON The United States shot down a Chinese spy balloon on Saturday that had spent the last week traversing the country, an explosive end to a drama that put a diplomatic crisis between the worlds two great powers onto television screens in real time. The balloon, which spent five days traveling in a diagonal southeast route from Idaho to the Carolinas, had moved off the coast by midday Saturday and was shot down within moments of its arrival over the Atlantic Ocean. I told them to shoot it down, President Biden told reporters in Hagerstown, Md., on his way to Camp David on Saturday afternoon. They said to me, lets wait until the safest place to do it. That time and place came at 2:39 p.m., Pentagon officials said, some six miles off the coast of South Carolina. The Federal Aviation Administration had paused departures and arrivals at airports in Wilmington, N.C., and in Myrtle Beach and Charleston in South Carolina. One of two F-22 fighter jets from Langley Air Force Base fired a Sidewinder air-to-air missile, downing the balloon, which was flying at an altitude of 60,000 to 65,000 feet. The F-22s were at 58,000 feet, with other American fighters in support. Iowas caucuses are deeply ingrained in the states political culture and even its dining culture and voters are seasoned at probing politicians over fried treats at the state fair. But officials have acknowledged a need to revamp the caucus process and have promised changes. Iowa Democrats have been more muted in their public pushback than their New Hampshire counterparts, but how they may proceed with the timing of their caucuses is an open question, Mr. Brennan said. Meantime, Nevada, South Carolina and Michigan have met the committees requirements for holding early primaries, according to a letter from the leaders of the Rules and Bylaws Committee. Gov. Gretchen Whitmer of Michigan this week signed a bill moving up the states primary to Feb. 27. There are still questions regarding how quickly that could take effect, and how Republicans in the state may respond, but Democrats there have voiced confidence that the vote can be held according to the D.N.C.s new calendar. There had also been some resistance to the idea of South Carolina a Republican-tilted state that is not competitive in presidential general elections serving as the leadoff state, while others strongly defended the idea of elevating it. Regardless, the reshuffle may only be temporary: Mr. Biden has urged a review of the calendar every four years, and the party has embraced steps to get that process underway. President Joe Biden will visit the Madison area on Wednesday to tout his economic plan, according to the White House. In his visit Biden will highlight how his economic plan is creating good-paying, union jobs and delivering results for Americans, according to a White House statement. His Wisconsin visit follows a labor market report that far exceeded economists expectations. The U.S. economy added 517,000 jobs in January, and the unemployment rate fell to 3.4%, its lowest rate since 1969, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. A White House spokesperson had not clarified where and what time Biden will make his Wednesday appearance in the Madison area. The presidents visit is scheduled amid a critical month in Washington, D.C., and Wisconsin. Bidens visit will come the day after his State of the Union address. One week after Bidens visit, on Feb. 15, Democratic Gov. Tony Evers will present his budget to the Republican-led Legislature, launching a monthslong battle over state government spending. Less than one week after Evers budget address on Feb. 21 four contenders will face off in the Wisconsin Supreme Court primary, an election that will decide which two candidates advance to the April 4 election. Biden last visited the state in September, when he stumped for Democratic midterm election candidates in Milwaukee. Photos: Inauguration ceremony at the state Capitol WASHINGTON Bilal al-Sudani was no stranger to American counterterrorism officials. Before joining the Islamic State affiliate in Somalia, Mr. al-Sudani was subjected to punitive sanctions by the U.S. Treasury Department in 2012 for his involvement with Al Shabab, Al Qaedas branch in the East African country. But it wasnt until American officials started digging deeper into the background of another Islamic State branch, the one in Afghanistan that had carried out the deadly bombing at Kabuls international airport in August 2021, that analysts fully realized Mr. al-Sudani oversaw a sprawling ISIS financial and logistical network across Africa, Europe and Afghanistan. Mr. al-Sudanis newly revealed role as the financier for the ISIS branch responsible for the death of 13 U.S. service members in Kabul rocketed him to the top ranks of U.S. counterterrorism kill-or-capture lists, senior American officials said. Last week, commandos from the Navys SEAL Team 6 killed him in an early-morning helicopter-to-ground raid in a remote cave complex in northern Somalia. Al-Sudani helped to put money in the pockets of the same elements of ISIS-K responsible for Abbey Gate, said a senior U.S. official, referring to ISIS-Khorasan and the Kabul airport location of the bombing. . There remains a great deal of pride in these ships among those who work on and around them, as was apparent during a visit last month to the Mayport base near Jacksonville. The Little Rock and six other littoral combat ships were tied up there, with teams of Navy sailors working and in some cases living on the ships. The Little Rock one of the ships now slated for retirement still has not been out for its second deployment since the failed trip in 2020. During sea trials early last year that followed 19 months of repairs, the Little Rocks engines broke down again. But U.S.S. Sioux City, another of the Freedom-class ships that is slated for decommissioning, spent five months last year on a deployment that took it a total of 31,000 miles through waters around Europe and as far as the Gulf of Oman, while it did training exercises with foreign allies. It was proof, Navy officers and backers of the ships said, that the ships should be saved. Id love to see us keep all the ships, said Captain David Miller, the commander of the Florida-based littoral combat ship squadron, said in an interview. We have stuff we can do with all the ships. A train derailment caused a huge fire to erupt in eastern Ohio on Friday night, prompting officials to order many of the towns residents to evacuate as crews assessed whether the cargo contained toxic material, the authorities said. The risk of injury remained a concern on Sunday because of the lingering threat of a potential explosion, officials said. Roughly 50 cars derailed around 9 p.m. Friday in East Palestine, Ohio, which has 4,700 residents and is about 50 miles northwest of Pittsburgh. On Saturday, local and federal officials and Norfolk Southern, the rail operator, were still investigating the cause of the derailment, which led to a fire that swept much of the town in smoke and cast a red glow over homes in the area overnight. Live updates: The U.S. has shot down the Chinese spy balloon. After years of deepening mistrust and simmering tensions, ties between the United States and China appeared poised for a modest rebound after the meeting of the two nations leaders at a summit last November and recent efforts by Beijing to stabilize its relations with the world. A visit by Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken to Beijing this weekend was expected to build on that progress. All it took was a balloon to upend everything. The discovery of what American military officials called a high-altitude surveillance balloon over Montana this week, and Mr. Blinkens decision on Friday to cancel his trip, has again exposed the fragility of a relationship between two powers locked in an increasingly tense rivalry for military, geopolitical and technological dominance. The balloon has fueled bipartisan outrage in the United States and has given the Biden administration little room to maneuver even as China uncharacteristically expressed regret for the vessels appearance. On Saturday afternoon, the United States shot down the balloon off the coast of the Carolinas while it was still in American territorial waters. People that I talk to who have been doing this work for 20 years are saying its never been this bad, Tim Richter, the groups president and chief executive, told me. Not just in terms of numbers but in terms of the condition that people are in. Leilani Farha, the global director of Make The Shift, an international group that promotes the right to housing, told me that Canada has one of the worst records globally when it comes to homelessness. Something systemic is going on, said Ms. Farha, who is based in Ottawa. Our system is broken. The three court decisions, the oldest of which dates to 2020, involved attempts by a regional government, a port authority and a parks commission to remove encampments from lands they control. But unlike many other judges in the past, the three who heard these cases accepted the evidence that there arent enough spots in shelters for the growing population of homeless people, and that existing shelters often dont meet the needs of many of them or can be more dangerous than encampments. In a decision issued just over a year ago, Justice F. Matthew Kirchner of the Supreme Court of British Columbia also noted that clearing out encampments without resolving housing issues creates something of a perpetual motion machine. The Carniolan question has led to an escalating conflict between the states apiarists, with some even chasing after wrong-colored culprits and snapping photographs of the hives they return to as evidence used to inform on fellow beekeepers and get the state to open an investigation. Both sides describe an atmosphere of fear and intimidation, in which the discourse is so toxic that many refuse to talk about their bees. The state councilor in charge of agriculture, Martin Gruber, said he would not give an interview on the issue before local elections in March. Mr. Strmljan and others suspect that some of the states beekeepers have illegally imported other, potentially more productive subspecies to ramp up honey volume. Mr. Huter and others deny this accusation, insisting that their bees are also Carniolans, and that some of them simply come in different colors. Indeed, color alone is not a foolproof way to identify a Carniolan, according to scientists. Its difficult to try and define it on color alone without investigating the genetic background in each one, said Kirsten Traynor, the director of the institute for bee research at the University of Hohenheim in Stuttgart, Germany. Mixed mating can also improve a hives health and vitality, Dr. Traynor added. Studies show that when you have genetically diverse drones that the queen mates with, the colony is actually more resistant against diseases, she said. Since Mr. Huters hives were investigated five years ago, the state has come to accept that color alone cannot be the only determining factor, so now when a hive is inspected, sample bees are sent for further analysis, where an expert examines the bees wings, the width of their abdominal rings and the length of their body hairs. BRUSSELS Russias invasion of Ukraine is the greatest challenge to European security since the end of the Cold War, but the Europeans have missed the opportunity to step up their own defense, diplomats and experts say. Instead, the war has reinforced Europes military dependence on the United States. Washington, they note, has led the response to the war, marshaled allies, organized military aid to Ukraine and contributed by far the largest amount of military equipment and intelligence to Ukraine. It has decided at each step what kind of weapons Kyiv will receive and what it will not. Its indispensable role was manifest in the recent decision to provide Leopard tanks to Ukraine and allow others to do so a step Chancellor Olaf Scholz of Germany refused to take, despite strong pressure from Poland and Britain, unless the United States provided some of its own modern tanks. American leadership has almost been too successful for its own good, leaving Europeans with no incentive to develop leadership on their own, said Liana Fix, a German analyst with the Council on Foreign Relations in Washington. KYIV, Ukraine Moscow is deploying thousands of soldiers to southeastern Ukraine as it renews an assault on a strategically important town that Ukrainian forces have used to harass shipments on a critical Russian supply line that runs from the eastern Donbas region to Crimea. The town, Vuhledar, has long been in Russias cross hairs. It sits at the intersection of the eastern front in the Donetsk region and the southern front in the Zaporizhzhia region, close to the only rail line linking Crimea with the Donbas region. The Ukrainians have used that proximity to lob artillery shells at the trains, limiting Russias ability to move men and equipment between the two fronts and, ultimately, to achieve its stated aim of capturing the Donbas, which comprises the provinces of Luhansk and Donetsk. After a major drive in November failed, with reportedly enormous losses, Russian commanders are once again attacking in and around Vuhledar in hopes of securing the rail line. This can be done in only one way by capturing and occupying Vuhledar, which just hangs over this railway line, said Ivan Yakovina, a prominent Ukrainian journalist and radio host. By capturing the seemingly small and not very significant town, he said, Russia would have received a wide logistical artery along the entire front line and, accordingly, the ability to quickly and massively transfer troops from one direction to another. The United States is stepping up efforts to persuade partner nations that have not joined Western sanctions on Russia to crack down on commercial activities in their countries that could be helping Moscows war effort in Ukraine, U.S. officials said. Those efforts include pointing out to foreign governments transactions that the United States suspects are helping Russia evade sanctions and threatening new American sanctions on people and companies that the United States believes are fueling Russias war machine, the officials said on Friday. The new push comes as the first anniversary of Russias invasion of Ukraine approaches and as U.S. officials, recognizing the limited effect of layers of Western sanctions on Russia, seek new ways to increasingly damage the Russian economy and undermine President Vladimir V. Putins ability to support his forces. The sting from these sanctions is leading Russia to look for new economic pathways, said a senior U.S. official, who spoke on the condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to publicly discuss the efforts. Chorizo Meatballs with Manchego Cheese Yields: 6 servings Ingredients 2 large eggs (lightly beaten) (lightly beaten) 4 cloves garlic (minced) (minced) 1 tsp smoked paprika tsp salt cup panko bread crumbs cup, plus 2 Tbsp Manchego cheese (finely shredded, about 1 ounces, divided) (finely shredded, about 1 ounces, divided) pound ground pork pound Mexican-style pork chorizo 24 basil leaves |Preparation| Preheat broiler and arrange a rack about 6 inches from the heat. Line a large, rimmed baking sheet with foil and set aside. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, garlic, paprika and salt. Stir in panko and cup of cheese. Add pork and chorizo and gently mix until well combined. With dampened hands, shape the mixture into 24 meatballs, about 1 inches in diameter, arranging them on the prepared baking sheet. Broil meatballs until cooked through and lightly browned, 12 to 14 minutes, turning halfway through. Set aside to cool slightly, about 3 minutes. Spear a basil leaf (fold larger ones in half) and a meatball onto a toothpick and transfer to a serving plate. Repeat with remaining basil and meatballs. Sprinkle with remaining 2 tablespoons of cheese and serve warm. AN Offaly man has spoken about how a painful GAA injury which threatened to end his working days has been fixed after he flew to Spains Costa Blanca for surgery. Robert Delaney, (54), once starred at midfield for his parish club Cappincur. But 21 years ago when he decided hed pull on the club jersey for the last time, he suffered a serious cruciate injury which left him with nerve damage. He later underwent surgery, ending any thoughts of a U-turn or plans to continue playing. I felt unlucky as I had already decided it would be my last year playing with the club and Id never had any serious injury prior to that, says Robert. As it turned out I couldnt change my mind anyway as I was told never to play contact sport again. But I never felt right after the surgery. I could still feel pain in my knee. I started doing a bit of walking to keep in shape and four or five years ago my knee would start to slip out from under me. I knew there was something wrong. The past two years have been awfully painful. Robert turned to a private clinic for scans and was told he needed knee replacement surgery. The cartilage in the knee was gone and the bone was fairly well worn as well, said the father of four. He was later given the same news by a hospital doctor. I was offered an injection for the pain. I was in awful pain by this stage but I didnt see the point of an injection, said Robert, a factory worker at Irish Casings in Tullamore. I was lifting 20kg boxes all day and pulling pallets with 700kg and I was doing all that with one knee, the good knee. After a couple of hours it would get really really painful. But I was told I was too young for a knee replacement. I couldnt believe it. How long was I supposed to wait? I need to live my life now. In August past (2022) I was told I would have to wait three years or more to get an operation at Tullamore Hospital. I would be 58 or 59 by that stage. A friend of mine has already been waiting for four years. Robert had heard about going abroad for the surgery and contacted the organisation Healthcare Abroad. All I had to do was book my flights. Healthcare Abroad looked after everything else, said Robert. I met someone out walking at home who had already been to Spain with Healthcare Abroad and they said it had been first class. And my experience was the same as it turned out. I have to be honest and say I was sceptical about it to begin with. It would mean going to a strange place, paying a lot of money up front and you dont anything about the hospital and the doctors. But I read the reviews. These were all Irish people who had been to Denia for the same operation. And my wife knew someone whose friend had been out for back surgery and she had advised us not to worry about it, to go for it. Healthcare Abroad did all the paperwork, they collected us from Alicante airport and they settled us into a lovely hotel in Denia before going for surgery at the HCB Private Hospital where the nurses and doctors could not have been more welcoming. Robert got a loan for his operation from the Credit Union. The HSE will reimburse the costs of his operation and physio around 16 weeks after surgery. At the end of the day the only money coming out of my own pocket was the cost of flights and the hotel and that was a very small price to pay, said the father of four. I didnt even have to explain it to the Credit Union in Tullamore. They knew about Healthcare Abroad already and it was sorted very quickly. The Cappincur man believes he would have ended up in a wheelchair and would have had to quit his job if he hadnt gone to Spain. It was the best decision I ever made, said Robert. I would say to anyone in my own parish or own county if they are in the same position Dont even think about it, just get on a plane to Alicante. You couldnt be looked after any better, the doctors, the nurses, the people bringing your food and your tea, the physios and the Healthcare Abroad carers and drivers were all incredible. The whole thing was exceptional. A Healthcare Abroad spokesperson said: We were delighted to assist Robert in accessing one of Spains best surgeons. He is making a particularly quick recovery from his knee replacement surgery and we are delighted he will be like a new man very soon. We want to wish him and his family all the best for the future. Robert was treated for his injury at a hospital in the upmarket seaside city of Denia, an hour north of Alicante on the Costa Blanca. The HCB Private Hospital used by patients travelling with Healthcare Abroad is dubbed the Irish hospital by Spanish locals because so many Irish patients now get treatment there. It is one of 46 hospitals available to Irish patients, each specialising in different procedures. Robert was able to jump waiting lists at home under the EU Cross Border Directive, a decade-old scheme which allows patients from any EU country to avail of treatment in another EU country. The HSE here in Ireland reimburse the costs of the operation. Patients dont have to be on a waiting list. They just need a referral from a GP. Some of my earliest memories include going with my mother to story time at the public library in our small factory town in West Virginia. I excitedly sat on the rug in my bell-bottom corduroys and absorbed the story. Our metal library cards, tucked safely in my mothers purse, were pulled out each week so we could get a new selection of books. I remember watching jealously as my older brother received a prize and had his picture taken for the local newspaper when he had the 100,000th book checked out at the library. When we moved to Norfolk, Nebraska in 1983, one of the first things we did was sign up for library cards. I would check out the book mentioned most recently on "Reading Rainbow." And I would log each one for the summer reading program. Choose-Your-Own-Adventure stories and childrens series filled my arms each week. My mother and I would check out jigsaw puzzles and craft books to help us get through the long, cold Nebraska winters. In later years, middle school research projects, high school debate topics, and college papers brought me to my library. Long before the internet changed what it meant to search, the card catalog and green Periodical Guide to Literature sent me on a scavenger hunt for titles. I discovered inter-library loan in the seventh grade allowed me to complete my quest to read every book ever written by L.M. Montgomery (author of "Anne of Green Gables"). While my casual reading declined during my college years, my use of research collections exploded. For an entire semester I spent my evenings in the basement of a public library in Mesa, Arizona, reading every newspaper printed prior to 1900 in the Phoenix Valley. Scrolling through so many reels of microfilm built character, and probably nearsightedness, thats for sure. As an adult with my own child, I again found myself at story times and summer reading programs. I was checking out kids movies and bringing my child to read aloud to a therapy dog. As for me, I checked out books on CD to accompany me as I traveled. I found myself reading dozens of young adult novels from the teen section and bringing my Columbus Middle School students to the library for tours. Now with an empty nest, I have begun reading for myself again, rediscovering an old love of poetry and a new love of true crime. Each Saturday I browse through the collection before using the self-checkout to take home cookbooks and novels. I downloaded the Libby app on my phone and started streaming audio books. My mother, who inspired my love of reading and libraries so many years ago, now struggles with her vision, so she listens to books with the Libby app, too. Each week I help her download new choices. No matter the phase of my life, libraries have played an important role. The technology has changed, the services have changed, and somehow the public library has always had what I needed at that time. As we open our new Columbus Public Library, I cannot wait to see how my library continues to evolve alongside me. Editor's note: With the Columbus Area Chamber of Commerce Agribusiness Committee's Rural Recognition Banquet honorees being announced last week, The Columbus Telegram will be profiling each of the award winners. This is the fourth in the series. Agriculture in the modern era uses technology in many ways. Finding new and unique ways to implement that technology, according to Columbus Area Chamber of Commerce Agribusiness Committee Chair Brad Christensen, is what sets the Committee's Outstanding Area Farmers apart. "Typically those people are under the age of 55 that have either shown some advancements or done some things maybe outside of the box to create an opportunity for themselves in ag," Christensen said. Lukas and Brenden Fricke will be honored at the Committee's 54th Annual Rural Recognition Banquet on March 21 at the American Legion, 2263 23rd St. The nomination, Christensen said, is for the brothers' use of technology on their farm in programs like VeriFood and ChorCheck. Their technology, he said, doesn't just benefit them and their farm but the ag community as a whole. "Sometimes we get caught up where its just the next generation that steps into place and succeeds the older generation but for those two, it was Lukas developed ChorCheck, and app or digital app that allow them to analyze or run their hog barn with greater tech," Christensen said. ChorCheck is an application which allows farmers to keep track of daily tasks on their job site for safety and quality assurance purposes, similar to a chore chart, but online. Verifood, Lukas Fricke said, is a food claims verification service, which stores all its information in a verified database called a blockchain. "It allows us to be able to prove the authenticity and immutable fact that no one touched it. It's an unadulterated data set. Once you put the data in, you can't change it," Fricke said. VeriFood, he added, even goes one step further by allowing for direct data transfer from the machinery producing measurements, effectively triple-checking that information is consistent. If anything is altered, it "breaks" that link in the blockchain. "You have third-party sensor data or smart software pieces of data that allows us to make claims for that blockchain so it's triple redundancy on a claim. Blockchain is a really fancy chain of custody on data," Fricke explained. The idea for VeriFood, Fricke explained, came from the brothers' work on the family farm in the Ulysses are around the time he returned from college at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. "Brenden and I were talking like 'we need a better way of keeping track of stuff' so we went out and created a software platform that we needed to help answer our questions just to help with the auditability of the farm and to take records down a lot easier," Fricke said. Fricke said that was the beginning of ChorCheck and Verifood. In addition to their technological pursuits, Fricke said they try to maintain a certain level of sustainability to their operation, trying to get as much yield as possible with the least environmental impact. "We're a conventional farm so we do use genetically-modified seeds, fertilizer, but we push sustainability pretty hard, we sell carbon credits, nitrogen credits, benchmark our environmental impact every year and have for the past five years" Fricke said. "How can we do better with less and still get production from ground?" Fricke said one of the keys to their success with these approaches is that the brothers play to their strengths and leave things to the other's strength to them. As an example, Fricke said he's often the one working with animals and record-keeping, whereas his brother Brenden is more inclined toward crops and fabrication, his strong suits. "Everyone respects the cook in their kitchen for what they're powerful in. It comes down to respecting 'hey I've got this but I dont got that,'" Fricke said. "I like to think outside of box, Brenden is a little more shy about that, but has one of most amazing logical minds I can find out there so it's very practical." Fricke said they're humbled to accept the recognition, and that all farmers really should be recognized for their contributions, especially in Nebraska and the Columbus area, where agriculture drives so many parts of industry. "It's really nice to see the community understand and support ag. Look at the chamber a lot of businesses are reliant on ag and production: Behlen Mfg. Co., ADM, Tyson, Cargill, so many businesses ag supports," Fricke said. "We should be recognizing all the farmers during this time because there are so many people out there. It's humbling that we were able to rise to the top through our peers." Christensen said that what makes this recognition especially meaningful is that peer recognition. When one is nominated by their fellows in their field, they take it to heart because it means what they're doing is special. "The biggest compliment you can get is when one of your peers or fellow people nominate you and say 'hey these people are doing an outstanding job' even though you may not think you're doing anything different you feel good because your peers think or feel you're doing something special making an impact in ag," Christensen said. Ouch: 888 Group Bids Goodbye to Key Figures After Discovering AML and KYC Failings Published February 4, 2023 by Lee R Iconic 888 CEO Itai Pazner has fallen prey to AML and KYC failings. Compliance failings at iGaming operating giant 888 have resulted in an unsightly fall from grace that iGaming operators should take heed of to a man. CEO Pazner Leaves The main piece to topple is right at the top: 888 CEO Itai Pazner is abruptly leaving his post, in the wake of a plethora of AML and KYC failings for Middle East customers. Pazner Replacement Non-executive chairman Lord Mendelsohn assumes the interim CEO post while a permanent replacement is sought by the groups Board of Directors. Pazner at 888 Pazners departure comes after over 20 years of service that saw dynamic growth--and on the heels of 888s additional announcement of the suspension of VIP activities in certain key dot.com markets. Middle East Failings After a great rise, Pazner leaves the company in a shambles: his supervision overlooked key Anti-Money Laundering and Know Your Customer KYC practices for customers in the Middle East that could have resulted in catastrophic damages to the companys reputation and coiffeurs (in the form of increasingly commonplace fines industry-wide). Pazners Career Pazners appointment as 888 CEO in January 2019 was at the time the cherry on top of a two-decade rise through the organization. Pazners reign at the 888 helm oversaw epochal organizational events such as the acquisition of non-US William Hill in July 2022, as well as the successful expansion into and across the key North American markets of the US and Canada. Acting CEO Speaks Despite the final failings, Mendelsohn bid Pazner a fond farewell: On behalf of the board I would like to thank Itai for his significant contributions to the business over more than 20 years, including the last four as CEO. Cup Half Full Despite the ignominious ending, there were countless positives that Pazner turned in along the way. Mendelsohn focused on those positives even in departure, lauding the important role role Pazner played in building a business with powerful proprietary technology. Saying Goodbye Mendelsohn further cited the importance of the successful early stages to the William Hill integration process before wishing Pazner well in future endeavors. Other Top Exec Leaving Pazners departure is just part of the shakeup at the top of 888, after the earlier announcement that chief financial officer Yariv Dafna would be stepping down on 31 March (later extended to the end of 2023). Dafna Issue The Dafna resignation came in part due to sagging performance at 888, which warned of a 3% year-on-year revenue decline figure coming in for the 2022 fiscal. The full reasons for these failings were not disclosed, but clearly represent more related fallout from mismanagement at the top. Middle East Suspended The procedural failings that led to Pazners departure also resulted in a suspension of all VIP activities for Middle Eastern customers until the completion of the internal compliance investigation which resulted from that final mismanagement. Self-Monitoring Revealed The company discovered its culpability first, following an internal compliance review revealing the KYC and AML failings for 888s VIP Middle East customers. Impact of Suspension The suspension of VIP customer accounts in the Middle East across the board is a move that is projected to affect less than 3% of the total 888 group revenue. The company has also ascertained that the failings were strictly in the Middle East, and not organization-wide for the global 888 presence. Embracing Accountability Mendelsohn asserted the accountability of 888: The board and I take the groups compliance responsibilities incredibly seriously. When we were alerted to issues with some of 888s VIP customers, the board took decisive actions. Maintaining Sustainability Mendelsohn assures continued vigilance as well, saying the group would remain uncompromising in the approach to compliance, further asserting 888s commitment to continue to build a strong and sustainable business. Shares Drop The Pazner issue was costly in another way: London-based 888 Holdings shares dropped a whopping 15.99% to 86.70 pence per share following the announcement of his departure and the reasons why. Ramifications The drop in shares should not be seen as a surprise, but are an important indicator of what any company that fails in compliance procedures is faced with. Preventative Action The executive shaking up at the top of a company on a scale of 888 is a salient reminder of the need to remain compliant and to self-monitor for compliance on an ongoing basis. Fines for AML and KYC procedural violations have been proliferating industry-wide, and it looks as if 888 was well to act preventatively to avoid penalties. Proactive Monitoring The fact that 888 discovered and announced the failings and took action shows organisational accountability, and an important desire and sincerity to remain compliant when failings are discovered. Rising From the Ashes Despite the failings, the 888 example ultimately exemplifies a resilience that should be emulated by all industry operators in the movement towards an increasingly preventative self-monitoring environment and a greater compliant iGaming culture. Outlook A good look at AML and KYC procedures from the outset of every launch or term would certainly behoove all iGaming operators, in order to avoid the egg on the face that comes from ignoring them. Carlisle Area School District is contemplating a major overhaul of its elementary education program to head off anticipated enrollment increases, improve efficiencies and equalize class sizes across its seven elementary schools. District administrators Thursday briefed the public and school board members on the rationale behind the effort to re-imagine the way grades K-5 should function among buildings of different sizes, ages and capacities. We have begun discussions with our architect of record and have convened internal committees to explore alternative models and configurations, Superintendent Colleen Friend said, comparing the work to what was done more than a decade ago when the district examined its middle schools. It could be mid- to late spring before any options are made public, Friend said, adding that administrators are meeting every two weeks with the architectural firm Crabtree, Rohrbaugh & Associates. We are in the planning stages. We really have a sense of urgency. We have to plan for long-term enrollment increases, but we also have to mitigate where we are are right now. The district has seven K-5 buildings in four municipalities Carlisle and Mount Holly Springs and Dickinson and North Middleton townships. Buildings enrollments range from 180 students at North Dickinson Elementary School to more than 400 students at Crestview Elementary School, Friend said. There are plans to engage the public in the changes, but the methods have yet to be discussed by the school board, she said. New housing Director of Elementary Operations Monique Wallace presented an overview of three trends driving the effort to reimagine the elementary program: anticipated enrollment growth generated by new housing projects, the need for more efficient programs and a class size imbalance among the schools. Administrators met with officials from Carlisle Borough and North Middleton Township to gauge the scope and timing of new housing units under construction or planned in those areas within the next eight years, Wallace said. She said the district can expect 1,014 new housing units in the next eight years affecting three school buildings Bellaire (275 new units), Crestview (375 units) and Hamilton (366 units). Administrators are trying to get a handle on how many students could be generated by this influx. Most of the units affecting Bellaire and Crestview will be single-family detached dwellings, while Hamilton will be impacted by apartments and town houses. A lot of it depends on getting the data correct, Friend said. We have done some predictions. We are working with PowerSchool and Decision Insight. We are also looking at the services of Forecast Five. Program limits Beyond the number of students, other demographics weigh into how elementary schools should be configured and structured to provide a balanced program to all students. The past five years have seen steady increases in the number of students who qualify for free or reduced price lunches and the number of students who need special education services, Wallace said. In the current school year, 1,316 of the districts 2,285 elementary students receive free or reduced price lunch benefits. This is up almost 10% from the 1,124 of the 2,313 students receiving the benefit in 2018-19. The percentage of students on free or reduced price lunches is an indicator the government uses to gauge the poverty level of the population served by a school or school district. We used to have a fairly large split between the most affluent school and the highest poverty school in the district, Wallace said. But that is very much decreasing. Our free and reduced price lunch numbers are increasing in all seven schools. As for special education, 349 of the 2,285 students in the current school year require some form of service or placement in a program. This is up about 1% from the 328 of the 2,313 students enrolled in 2018-19. A steady enrollment increase in recent years combined with the need for more specialized services has stressed the ability of certain buildings to provide efficient programming, Wallace said. When you think of our elementary education program, its not just creating one program in one building. Its creating that same program seven different times in seven buildings. Like everyone else, we are experiencing staff challenges both in retention and recruitment, Wallace said. Because of that increase in enrollment, our buildings are already at capacity and we are using spaces in ways in which they were not originally intended or meant to be used. Class sizes In her PowerPoint presentation, Wallace showed photographs of storage space being used as learning space by teachers who are making do the best they can. Her presentation also charteds the scope of class sizes in grades K-5 over the past five years. Wallace cited, as an example, the third-grade class in 2018-19 when the smallest class size was 13 students and the largest class size was 29 students. The current year range is 19 and 24. It is a different educational experience for a child sitting in a classroom with 13 students versus a child sitting in a classroom with 29 students, Wallace said. Its also a different experience for the teacher. In the past, the district has tried to cope with fluctuations in class sizes by opening and closing classrooms, but that is a reactive, not a proactive approach, Wallace said. In many of our buildings right now, if we need to open a classroom, a specialized teacher goes on a cart, Friend said. Thats just the reality. We are really at that stage now. What this presents though is an opportunity to really re-imagine our inefficient systems and our imbalances in class sizes. Area emergency personnel tackled a fire at a Desloge home Friday morning. Crews had the flames under control shortly after arriving on the scene, saving the one-story house from further damage. Just before 11 a.m. on Friday, firefighters received a dispatch for a residential structure fire at a house in the 700 block of North Desloge Drive in Desloge. Desloge Fire Chief Jared Meador said the first crews to the scene arrived to a working fire in the homes attic, with flames coming from the rear portion of the roof. Meador said firefighters managed to contain the fire to the attic area and brought the blaze under control within about 10 minutes. He said units remained at the property for about 45 minutes to an hour doing overhaul work to ensure the fire was extinguished. The chief noted that a resident of the address was home when the fire started but made it outside safely. No injuries were reported. Meador said the home sustained repairable damage and did not believe the structure was a total loss. The cause of the fire is still under investigation by the Missouri State Fire Marshals Office, the chief explained. I appreciate all the help and the quick response from our mutual aid companies, Meador added. Departments assisting Desloge with Friday mornings containment efforts included Park Hills, Bonne Terre/Big River, Farmington, and Leadington. Firefighters from Bismarck filled in at the Desloge Fire Station to respond to other calls. The St. Francois County Ambulance District also responded for firefighter safety. Tripoli, Libya (PANA) - Members of the National Consensus Bloc in Libya's High State Council on Friday discussed with the Special Representative of the Secretary-General and head of the United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL), Abdoulaye Bathily, an initiative to resolve the political crisis in the country New York, US (PANA) - On the occasion of the International Day of Human Fraternity, observed on Saturday, the UN chief has called for renewed commitment to forge an alliance of peace amid a surge in hate speech, sectarianism and strife Photo: (Photo : LIONEL BONAVENTURE /Getty Images) ChatGPT now has a new AI tool to help schools and educators detect academic dishonesty. OpenAI, the research company behind ChatGPT, has announced a new AI tool that can differentiate between language written by AI and text written by humans. The company announced that it would release an early version of the tool. It stated that it intends to gather input and hopes to provide updated versions of the tool. Were developing a new tool to help distinguish between AI-written and human-written text. Were releasing an initial version to collect feedback and hope to share improved methods in the future. https://t.co/4dQE3dX6vX OpenAI (@OpenAI) January 31, 2023 ChatGPT's new AI tool to detect cheating OpenAI is a firm that focuses on the development of artificial intelligence technologies. The Verge reported it is the creator of DALL-E and ChatGPT. This newly released tool, known as a classifier, can be used by anybody. Users need to have an OpenAI account to use the new AI tool. On the website, click the classifier, paste the text inside the box, click the button to start the detection, and it generates results like "very unlikely," "unlikely," and "possibly." However, in the company's press release, OpenAI stated that just like any of their tools, the new AI tool also has its limitations. One of them is that the tool needs a minimum of 150 to 250 words, which is 1,000 characters. OpenAI also warned about the ease with which AI-generated text can be altered to avoid being classified. A further shortcoming is that it will not always be accurate. It is capable of incorrectly labeling both human-written and computer-generated material. Because it was predominantly trained on English content authored by adults, the classifier is likely to make mistakes when applied to the text produced by youngsters and not in English. According to OpenAI, despite the huge help its tools could bring, it cautioned against the release of the classifier, saying it is not entirely reliable. They added that while it is impossible to detect all AI-written text reliably, they believe good classifiers can inform mitigations for false claims that a human wrote AI-generated text. Compared to their previously released classifier, this new one is significantly more reliable on text than more recent AI systems. Read Also: Former Teacher Marcie Whalen Goes Viral on TikTok for Advising Moms With 'Stranger Danger' Strategies Educational concerns link to ChatGPT After ChatGPT launched for free on November 30, there has been a widespread buzz about how excellent and helpful the new AI tool can be. Teenagers, high school students, college students, and even working professionals have been among the millions of users who have begun experimenting with ChatGPT. While others may have found it extremely helpful, educators around the country of all levels, including parents and guardians, have become worried about its long-term effects on their children. The new AI tool's power is immense, as it can write and provide numerous pieces of information within seconds to those using it. Schools and educators worldwide are now questioning how to ensure students are learning. According to FOX News, by the time classes started for the new year, public school districts in New York City, Los Angeles, and other major American cities had begun to restrict its usage in classrooms and on devices owned by the schools. This new AI tool comes after the concerns raised by people in the educational system, not just about the company but also about the technology of artificial intelligence. However, the company stated that it is working closely with educators about the technology, its scopes, and limitations. Related Article: More Students Getting Hungry as School Lunch Debt Piles Up Photo: (Photo : Roni Bintang/ Getty Images) Michigan State University is setting up an "Unconditional Love Fund." MSU is known for being optimistic in cultivating its institution's support of students in the LGBTQIA2S+ community. The university has its own "Gender and Sexuality Campus Center" that houses a variety of transgender-oriented resources. Michigan State University's newest grant Campus Reform reports that the "Unconditional Love Fund" at Michigan State University in East Lansing provides financial assistance of up to $1,000 per academic year to students who self-identify as belonging to the LGBTQIA2S+ community. The goal of the fund is to provide LGBTQIA2S+ students with adaptable support in a timely way to address extraordinary and unforeseen financial problems linked with their sexual and gender identity. This fund was formed as an additional initiative to continuously support some students who may be subjected to gender biases and help them. The Gender and Sexuality Campus Center makes use of the Unconditional Love Fund to provide help for students who are going through difficult times in their personal lives as well as in their financial lives. The institution plans to use this fund to allow its students to acquire the assistance they require to continue to flourish academically. Students who meet the requirements can be awarded up to $500 every semester. The application process can be repeated twice per academic year for each student. According to Fox News, to be considered for this award, students must explain their grant request briefly, detailing how their financial need is related to their gender or sexual identity. The "Unconditional Love Fund" applicants might also be asked to supply documents confirming their need for the additional assistance, which the school emphasizes does not have to be repaid. In addition, the Lesbian, Bisexual, Gay, and Transgendered (LGBT) Resource Center Endowment Fund and the Queering Racial Justice Summit Fund are available through the Gender and Sexuality Campus Center at Michigan State University. Both of these programs offer similar opportunities to that of the "Unconditional Love Fund." Read Also: Nikki Secondino, Instagram Trans Model, Faces Charges for Killing Father, Younger Sister The 'Unconditional Love Fund' According to Michigan State University, the grant application process might take up to seven business days. Additionally, it was clarified by the educational organization that the awards that would be given would be deposited into the student's account held with the Office of Financial Aid. Applicants need to be informed that the grant must be reported to the Office of Financial Aid and that doing so may impact the total amount of financial aid received by a student. When requesting aid from the resource center, students at MSU are reminded that they may be required to present proof of their financial hardship to be considered for assistance. Receipts, invoices, and bills may be needed as documentation for the claim. Lastly, the academic institution guarantees the pupils that they won't be required to return anything. Scholarships and grants are made available to students to receive assistance with the costs associated with maintaining their health, fitness, and safety. Related Article: Chest Binders for Transitioning Students Offered for Free; Could Lead to Breast Deformation Photo: (Photo : Valerie Macon/Getty Images) Here are some of the best Disney movies that are a must-watch during family night. During a family movie night or day, sometimes, many of you get confused and overwhelmed with the plethora of options on what film to watch. Pressure can be high at times. Parents and guardians are also cautious about selecting movies appropriate for their children's age. With that, here are our recommended top five best Disney movies you need to watch this 2023. Top 5 Best Disney Movies: 'The Lion King' First in our entry is the Disney movie "The Lion King." "The Lion King" is a classic animated musical that tells the story of Simba, a young lion destined to become king of the Pride Lands. With memorable songs, a compelling storyline, and colorful characters, "The Lion King" is a must-watch for children of all ages. This movie also had a few iterations throughout the years after its original release in 1994. The most touching aspect of "The Lion King" is the relationship between the father and son characters, Mufasa and Simba. Throughout the movie, Mufasa serves as Simba's wise and loving mentor, teaching him valuable life lessons and showing him what it means to be a true leader. A touching aspect of the movie is the theme of self-discovery and finding one's true purpose in life. Simba must overcome his guilt and fear to reclaim his rightful place as king of the Pride Lands, a journey that teaches him valuable lessons about responsibility, courage, and self-confidence. All these elements combined make "The Lion King" a touching and emotionally impactful film that will stay with viewers for years. Top 4 Best Disney Movies: 'Toy Story' On our list of the best Disney movies to watch, what we recommend next is the movie "Toy Story." According to Time Out, the first "Toy Story" movie was aired in 1995. The first-ever fully computer-animated film, "Toy Story," follows the adventures of Woody, a pull-string cowboy, and Buzz Lightyear, a space action figure, as they navigate life's challenges as toys in a child's room. With humor, heart, and a fantastic voice cast, "Toy Story" is a timeless film that will entertain children and adults alike. Top 3 Best Disney Movies: 'Up' For our top three, this movie is undoubtedly one of the most touching, heartwarming, and overall best Disney movies: "Up." According to the AV Club, this movie was initially released in 2009. This touching animated film tells the story of an elderly man named Carl who embarks on a journey to fulfill his lifelong dream with the help of a young boy named Russell. With beautiful animation, a heartwarming story, and unforgettable characters, "Up" is a timeless film that will make children and adults alike laugh, cry, and appreciate the power of friendship. Up makes you reflect on many lessons and heartwarming realities of life. The film shows the power of friendship. It highlights the importance of companionship and the special bond that can form between people, even when they come from different backgrounds and walks of life. Another emotional encouragement you can get out of this movie is to follow your dreams as it follows Carl to fulfill his lifelong dream. It encourages viewers to pursue their passions and never give up on their dreams, regardless of age. Overall, the movie is a beautiful, emotional, and inspiring film that will stay with viewers long after the credits roll. Read Also: 9-Year-Old Maryland Girl Finds Tooth Remains of Extinct Shark Top 2 Best Disney Movies: 'Zootopia' Second on our list is the movie Zootopia, which was released in 2016. This smart and sassy animated comedy explores the challenges faced by Judy Hopps, a determined young rabbit who becomes the first rabbit police officer in the animal city of "Zootopia." "Zootopia" is considered one of the best Disney movies for several reasons. Firstly, it tackles important social issues such as prejudice and discrimination through its unique animal-based setting. This allows for a fresh perspective on these issues while delivering an impactful message to audiences of all ages. The film's diverse representation of animals and cultures adds appeal and relatability. The humor in "Zootopia" is also top-notch, appealing to children and adults, making the film enjoyable for all ages. With a sharp wit, an engaging storyline, and a message about diversity and inclusion, "Zootopia" is a must-watch for kids and adults alike. Top 1 Best Disney Movies: 'Moana' Top one of our must-watch best Disney movies is "Moana." As recommended by Mashable, this epic animated adventure follows Moana, a young woman who sets out on a daring journey across the Pacific Ocean to save her people. There are numerous reasons why "Moana" is one of the go-to movies for many viewers. One of the greatest highlights of this film is cultural representation. "Moana" is the first Disney film to feature a Polynesian protagonist, and the film does a great job of representing the culture, traditions, and mythology of the Pacific Islands. The film also promotes strong themes such as courage, determination, and self-discovery, making it an inspiring movie for children. With stunning animation, catchy music, and a powerful message about finding one's true identity, "Moana" is a must-see for children who love action, adventure, and a good story. All the chosen movies listed are some of the best Disney movies to watch with children, offering a mix of adventure, humor, and heart that will entertain and inspire kids of all ages. Related Article: Former Teacher Marcie Whalen Goes Viral on TikTok for Advising Moms With 'Stranger Danger' Strategies Photo: (Photo : Getty Images/JACQUELYN MARTIN/POOL/AFP) Childcare issues continued during the First Lady's visit to Fort Drum. First Lady Jill Biden, along with Deputy Secretary of Defense Dr. Kathleen Hicks, visited Fort Drum near Watertown Monday and met with the families of the 10th Mountain Division. Both got glimpses of army life on post and consistently heard concerns regarding child care. "I heard from the families how important childcare is, which I've heard not only at these tables here at Fort Drum, but in every table across America, military or non-military. So we have to do a better job with getting childcare for our families," Dr. Biden gave this reassuring statement in a panel discussion that happened in the afternoon of their visit, North Country Public Radio reported. Entire America cannot deny the ongoing childcare crisis. However, it seems that military families get it tougher. Service members receive relocation and permanent station change orders once every three years, and every relocation would mean parents finding new childcare facilities for their children. Currently, Fort Drum only has four childcare centers, and the First Lady was able to visit one of them Monday. Childcare inconsistencies Aside from only having four, the spots on these facilities are hard to come by. Simulations Officer for the 10th Mountain Division, Major C. Lynn Yingling, expressed how "childcare inconsistencies from post to post to post" are primary problems of every military family. According to the 2021 Blue Star Families Military Family Lifestyle Survey, child care is one of the most challenging concerns of military families. Of 8,000 respondents, 32 percent stated that there is a regular need for child care, yet it still needs to be satisfied due to the lack of childcare availability, the high cost of child care, and its overall quality. Major C. Lynn and her husband, Major Scott Yingling, moved to Fort Drum during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic bringing their three young daughters with them. One was a preschooler at that time. They were devastated to find out that the waitlist for on-post daycare will take six to nine months, which is quite impossible for the couple if they wait. Lynn expressed that military parents, especially if both mother and father are in service, do not have the flexibility to stay at home while waiting for adequate child care as they never know when they will be called to be in the field. Thus, as a solution, and an expensive one, they decided to hire an out-of-the-country au pair. Not many military families can run to this solution as the cost can be high. Read also: Military Implements New Parental Leave Policy, Giving 12 Weeks for Birth, Non-Birth Parents Better employment opportunities for military spouses Dr. Biden noted that there should be more places, especially military bases, with childcare facilities. According to Dr. Hicks, the shortage of childcare staff deepens the problem. Thus, the Defense Department is working on utilizing the 22 percent unemployed military spouses to solve the childcare shortage on staff. An incentive for military spouses was offered when they worked at daycare centers. At least 50 percent of childcare costs for their kids will be taken off if they opt to serve as childcare staff. However, military spouses are also crying out for better employment opportunities, one of the recurring topics discussed Monday, the US Army wrote in an article on their website. Fortunately, this topic is close to the heart of the First Lady as it has been an issue she had addressed in her own life. Being the only First Lady to have a full-time job aside from being in the White House and having a teaching profession for almost 40 years, she knows what it means to be passionate about one's career. Thus, it is one of the highlights of her Joining Forces initiative. The First Lady stated how she empathizes with military spouses who need to let go of the careers they love to do and worked hard for. She believes that they should not be the ones giving up on everything, as it should be fair for both spouses. For a start, President Joe Biden signed a law earlier this month allowing military spouses and service members with out-of-state professional licenses to have eligibility still when their credentials are transferred to a new duty station. The First Lady stressed that there is more that the government is planning to do. Related Article: Military Spouses to Benefit from Pilot Program to Boost Their Careers Photo: (Photo : Getty Images/Mary Turner - WPA Pool) The future King and Queen of the Royal Family have one strict household rule that the children cannot break. Even this Royal couple knows that parenting is hard work and raising children can be a real challenge, especially when compounded with their royal responsibilities. Thus, just like any other normal parents, Prince William and Kate Middleton believe in setting boundaries and laying down rules in the household. An insider shared with The Sun that there is one rule in the royal family's house in Adelaide Cottage, Windsor, that not only the children but everyone strictly follows. There should be no shouting at home. Shouting is definitely "off limits" for six-year-old Prince George, five-year-old Princess Charlotte, and two-year-old Prince Louis. And their parents make sure that they model this rule correctly with the kids, as the Prince and Princess of Wales "never shout" at the kids. No to the 'naughty step,' yes to the 'sofa chat' The source added that if the children shout at each other or hint at it, they will be dealt with by removal. The removal punishment, though, does not involve being sent to their bedrooms or the "naughty step," a British term for disciplining the kids by instructing them to sit on a particular staircase step or stool in silence when they misbehave. It seems that the royal couple agreed with the experts that the naughty step is not an effective disciplinary technique, as dismissing a child to a step of the staircase or a stool in the corner of the house can cause more harm than good in the long run. According to MFFY, experts stressed that the approach makes the kids feel worse rather than solve the issue. The bad behaviors can escalate and be repeated as parents fail to make the situation a learning experience for the children. Moreover, it delivers the wrong information that isolating the kids is much better than talking to them, making them understand what they did wrong, and allowing them to practice meaningless apologies just so the isolation ends. Thus, the Prince and Princess use a different technique when the royal kids act up. They get the "sofa chat." "There's no 'naughty step' but there is a 'chat sofa'. The naughty child is taken away from the scene of the row or disruption and talked to calmly by either Kate or William. Things are explained and consequences outlined and they never shout at them," the source explained. Read also: Kate Middleton's Favorite Thing About Motherhood Is Simple And Relatable Parenting as a 'military operation' When asked who is stricter between the future King or Queen, the source revealed that the 38-year-old princess is "slightly stricter," but both are strict with the children, including the kids' Norland-trained nanny, Maria Borrallo. However, the three have this amazing "magic ability" not to appear strict. They are firm but good at listening to the children. The source described the team's work as a "military operation." Yet, the public will not see that because they work relentlessly hard to raise the kids the right way, and ironically, they make it seem a relaxing and happy task. Inspired and pushed by motherhood and knowing the importance of positive children's upbringing, Middleton launched her Shaping Us initiative earlier last week. The Mirror described it as an "ambitious campaign" to raise the profile of early child development from pregnancy to age five. The Duchess emphasized that the mission goes beyond "raising kids" but also focuses on shaping society and creating a "more nurturing world" not by placing additional pressure on parents but by supporting them as they reprioritize family life. Related Article: How Kate Middleton Squeezes in Exercise Everyday Before Busy Day Starts Photo: (Photo : Getty Images/HERIKA MARTINEZ/AFP) Nearly 700 children were reunited with their families after being separated during the term of former president Donald Trump. A task force created by the Biden administration made the reunion of the families separated by Trump possible, officials announced Thursday. According to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), a total of 3,881 children, mostly Central American, were separated from their families from 2017 to 2021 during the reign of Trump. As of this writing, 74 percent of these children have been reconnected to their families. A total of 2,176 children were located and reunified through a court process after the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) took legal action against the separation policy. This was pre-Biden's administration, while the rest of the 689 children were brought back to their families after the task force was created. Trump's administration was widely condemned when children were "forcibly" separated from their parents at the U.S.-Mexico border to diminish illegal immigration. On the first day of Biden in office, he issued an executive order, his government's first step in undoing the former president's immigration legacy, to reunite these families. A long-awaited task force was made for that sole mission, according to Politico. The task force continues to work hard The remaining 26 percent, or nearly 1,000 children, remain separated from their families. DHS informed the public that there are currently 148 children going through the reunification process. They further noted that the number of separated families continues to increase as new families come to the department and identify themselves. They, however, commit to continuing the work until all separated families can be reunited, Reuters reported. Read also: Donald Trump News: Why Celebrities Would Abandon America If Donald Trump Wins The 2016 US Presidential Elections? Healing the trauma and the wounds From the thousands of migrant parents separated from their children, the minors, who could not be held in criminal custody with their parents, were placed in the Department of Health and Human Services. They were eventually sent to live by a sponsor, mostly a relative or someone connected to the family. Yet, despite leaving with relatives, being forced away from their real parents can be tragically traumatic. Thus, more than the reunification, the task force also provides mental and behavioral health services to the children. Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas informed reporters Thursday that they are also focusing on the effort to address "the wounds" and the trauma, both mentally and emotionally, the separations had caused. Mayorkas narrated how a teenage daughter who was separated from her mother at 13 and reconnected with her at 16 cannot understand the "force behind the separation." This teenager's mother told the secretary that she still gets the blame for the separation, stating that her daughter "still could not understand how her mother would let her be separated," ABC News quoted. Related Article: Biden Administration To Check on How Trump-era Policy Traumatized Parents Separated From Their Kids An infant is back in the hands of family services nearly a month after the child was reported missing by family services workers. Police say the child's mother left an area shelter with the infant after tests reportedly found meth in the baby's system, and the mother's parental rights were suspended. In a press release Friday afternoon, the Washington County Sheriff's Office announced the child had been found safe, along with her parents, 48-year-old Phillip Anthony Emily and 33-year-old Bobbie Ann Stotler, both of Potosi. "Emily and Stotler were taken into custody at a rural Washington County residence," the sheriff's office said. "A one-year-old missing juvenile was also located in the home. The juvenile was taken into the custody of the Missouri Division of Family Services." Stotler was charged on Thursday with one count of parental kidnapping, a Class E felony charge. She was taken to the Washington County Jail Friday on a felony arrest warrant with no bond set in the case. Emily was charged, in a separate case, with one count of first-degree statutory sodomy - deviate sexual intercourse following allegations of sexual contact with a pre-teen juvenile. The man is being held at the Washington County Jail without bond for the sodomy case filed this week, as well as a warrant for a parole violation and a Jefferson County warrant for tampering with a motor vehicle. Multiple law enforcement agencies assisted in Friday's arrests, including the Washington County Sheriff's Office, Jefferson County Sheriff's Office, Potosi Police Department, Missouri State Highway Patrol, the Mineral Area Drug Task Force, and the United States Marshals Fugitive Apprehension Task Force. Washington County Sheriff Zach Jacobsen said he would also like to thank the Washington County Prosecutor's Office and the Washington County Associate Circuit Judge's Office for their assistance in the investigation. For the past month, authorities had been looking for the couple and the young child. According to a probable cause statement filed in the case against Stotler, on Jan. 6, the woman left a domestic violence shelter in Bonne Terre with her one-year-old daughter, Kristina. On Jan. 9, the child was placed in the legal custody of the Division of Family Services (DFS) after the infant tested positive for methamphetamine, and Stotler provided a diluted urine sample, according to the report. Before they were located, police said Stotler and the child were last seen at an address on Prices Road in Potosi. The criminal complaint filed Thursday indicates officials believed Stotler to be homeless. Police and DFS workers had reportedly attempted phone contact with the woman in the past month to no avail. On Thursday, the report states Stotler contacted the Division of Family Services and informed them she was "upset that Kristina was on the missing person flyer." The court filings note that Stotler is also implicated as a possible accessory in the separate sodomy case against Emily. Stotler's potential role in the alleged crime is still under investigation, and she had not been charged in the matter as of Friday afternoon. The sodomy case against Emily was filed Thursday after a 12-year-old child reported alleged instances of sexual contact. During a forensic interview, the juvenile reportedly told investigators the sexual contact happened when she was 11, during the summer months before school had started. The child recalled Emily asking her to help him cut wood and said they left in his truck and traveled approximately a quarter mile from the man's Potosi residence. She said it was there that Emily sexually assaulted her, according to the report. The child reportedly told investigators that Emily had sodomized her on approximately 21 other occasions. This service applies to you if your subscription has not yet expired on our old site. You will have continued access until your subscription expires; then you will need to purchase an ongoing subscription through our new system. Please contact the Parsons Sun office at (620) 421-2000 if you have any questions The UK's Register tech site reported yesterday that Google's Chromium developers have begun work on an experimental web browser for Apple's iOS using the search giant's Blink engine. The Register notes that "Apple requires every iOS browser to use WebKit and its iOS App Store Review Guidelines state, "Apps that browse the web must use the appropriate WebKit framework and WebKit Javascript." Google's project, a content_shell iOS port, would not be allowed on iOS if it were turned into a release-ready browser. Yet, Google, for some reason, is pursuing this." Apple's rules have been a sore point among competitors and the web development community for years. Critics have argued that Apple's browser restrictions which turn every iOS browser into a Safari clone, more or less make web applications less capable and less attractive. That steers developers toward writing native platform apps for iOS, over which Apple has gatekeeping and monetary powers. The latest questioning of Apple's authority came from the US National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA), which has just issued a report calling for changes to the mobile app ecosystem to promote competition. The NTIA report echoes concerns raised by other regulators like the UK Competition and Markets Authority, and competition authorities in Australia and Japan. What's more, the European Digital Markets Act, which comes into effect next year, is expected to force Apple to allow third-party app stores and perhaps to alter its WebKit requirement. the Chromium team's iOS Blink project has raised hopes among those who seek freedom from Apple's oversight. Open Web Advocacy, a group of developers who have lobbied for changes to Apple's policies, told The Register, "While Google has the money to invest in projects that might not be allowed to reach users, the timing of this feels very significant." For more, read the full report by The Register. Back in October 2022, Wired reported that "Gerard de Graaf, a veteran EU official who helped pass the DMA early this year stated that If you have an iPhone, you should be able to download apps not just from the App Store but from other app stores or from the internet. The DMA requires dominant platforms to let in smaller competitors, and could also compel Metas WhatsApp to receive messages from competing apps like Signal or Telegram, or prevent Amazon, Apple, and Google from preferencing their own apps and services. This could obviously translate into alternative browsers using Google's Blink Engine as opposed to Apple's WebKit. Then again, that's theoretical. I'm sure that Apple legal will attempt to fend off and complicate this potential trend relating to the use of Google's Blink Engine on iOS. For those interested, you could read more about Google's Blink Rendering Engine here. What are you thoughts on this? Send in your comments below or on our Twitter feed. It's being reported that Samsung Electronics Co has agreed to pay $150 million to British nanotechnology company Nanoco Technologies to settle patent lawsuits over technology used in Samsung's LED televisions, Nanoco and an investor in its cases said Friday. Nanoco and Chicago-based litigation funding firm GLS Capital said in a release that the settlement, which includes a license agreement and the "transfer of certain patents," resolves litigation in the United States, Germany and China. Samsung and Nanoco told a Texas federal court on the eve of a trial last month that they had agreed to settle the dispute, but no terms were disclosed at the time. Nanoco's quantum dots improve the backlighting of LED displays without the use of toxic heavy metals like cadmium. It sued Samsung in 2020, alleging the Korean tech giant copied its technology after receiving samples during talks about a potential collaboration. The Texas lawsuit said Samsung began incorporating Nanoco's technology into high-end QLED TVs launched in 2017. Third-party funding of lawsuits has becoming increasingly common in recent years, though details about specific investments are rarely publicized. Critics such as the U.S. Chamber of Commerce have warned that the practice obscures who is driving lawsuits and promotes unnecessary litigation. Backers say it can level the playing field and promote justice." This is different from law firms that purposely acquire patents and sue large companies as pure patent trolls. Apple, Samsung and many other large tech firms are sued by patent trolls on an ongoing basis. The report further noted that "Nanoco CEO Brian Tenner said in a statement that GLS Capital's financing 'allowed us to pursue our claims on equal footing against a much larger adversary.' GLS co-founder Adam Gill said Nanoco would receive more than 60% of the proceeds from the settlement but declined to offer additional details on their funding agreement. He said the firm was "proud" to have supported Nanoco in the dispute." For more, read the full Reuters report. Nanoco posses 500 Quantum Dot related patents Not even a month ago, sharp-eyed Redditors noticed that searching for AMD graphics card drivers on Google served up a shady text ad as the first result. Our advice then (as now) was to be careful when looking for Radeon software, plus maintaining good search habits in general. Lifes far easier when you sidestep malware. At the time, this incident seemed more of a one-off reason for heightened awareness. Even with the more recent report about Bitwarden suffering from a similar issue, using Google seemed mostly business as usual. Turns out though our threat alert should be set much higherother major downloads like Adobe Reader, Microsoft Teams, OBS, Slack, and Gimp are being targeted, too. As thoughtfully detailed by Ars Technica, the sharp rise in malvertising is a new phenomenon, stemming from Microsofts improved blocking of dangerous Word macros. When one field dried up, bad actors simply moved to another to farm. The trend is bad enough that security researchers have sounded the alarmbut so far, Google hasnt squashed the issue yet, though the company commented to Ars that addressing [the increase in malicious text ads] is a critical priority. Until a proper fix goes live, that leaves everyone who uses Google search to fend for themselves in the meanwhile. One of these links is not like the others. PCWorld So what can you do? The pat answer is Dont click on results labeled as ads, of course. You can also always check the link address to verify its authenticity, plus scroll down the page to see if you spot a duplicate result. Currently, if you see a second link for the same site, that one is usually more trustworthy, since ads get placed right at the top of results. And as a final safety net, you can install an ad-blocker on your browser, like uBlock Origin. Sites you trust and want to support can get manually added to the extensions approved list (which allows ads to show), while all others (including Google) will get screened. None of these precautions are bulletproof on their lonesome, but added all together, you should be able to steer clear of most bad links. And when you do click on a search result? Dont download and install anything until youve had a good look at the page. Make sure you scan any downloads with antivirus software The Office of the Registrar of Companies (ORC) wishes to inform all Business Name Owners (Sole Proprietorships) that the Office has commenced the process of striking off Business Names which have lapsed from the Business Names Register for defaulting in their Renewal. This exercise is in line with Section 5A (2) of the Registration of Business Names Act, 1962 (Act 151) on Annual Renewals which reads that: without prejudice to any other liability prescribed by this Act, a registration which is not renewed in accordance with this section shall LAPSE and the Registrar may remove from the Register the Business Name of the person whose Registration has lapsed after the expiration of the period prescribed for the renewal. What this means is that, failure to renew a Business Name (Sole Proprietorship) or a Subsidiary Business Name for a period of 3 months after the year has ended leaves the name open to be used by anyone interested in the name. Therefore, to avoid such Business Names falling into the public domain and for anyone of interest to use it after it has been struck off the Business Name Register, all Business Name Owners are entreated to renew their Business Names before the end of April, 2023. Business Name Owners can be in good standing by renewing their Business Name through the short code *222# and follow the prompt to make payment on the Ghana.Gov payment platform with their Mobile Money (Momo) wallet or walk into our Offices across the country and make payment at our in-house Fidelity Bank. The General Public is kindly advised to avoid the use of intermediaries and agents when transacting business with the Office of the Registrar of Companies. We entreat our clients to ignore all calls or text messages from Fraudsters purporting to be lawyers or staff of the Office and demanding Mobile Money transfers in order to put their Businesses in good standing. Kindly note that the Office does not have nor operate a Mobile Money Account or have designated any lawyer for that purpose. Please contact us on 055-765-3130 (Telegram/WhatsApp) or 030-266-6081/030-266-4692 or any of our social media handles on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and Instagram @ORC Ghana for further enquiries. SIGNED. JEMIMA MAMAA OWARE (MRS) THE REGISTRAR OF COMPANIES Source: Peacefmonline.com Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video The Government has confirmed that the first consignment under the Gold for Oil Policy was actually bought with cash. Reports were rife that the first consignment of oil was purchased with cash from the Bank of Ghana. Speaking on Morning Starr with Naa Dedei Tettey, Deputy Energy Minister, Andrew Egyapa Mercer confirmed that the first consignment of refined oil under the infamous gold for oil programme was bought with cash and not exchanged with gold. The Deputy energy minister further admitted that indeed the purchase was not done through the barter with Gold but with cash. He however clarified, the cash was not from Bank of Ghana, but from the sale of gold. Further, there are some that deal in oil and petroleum sometimes, so if you give them gold what are they going to use them for? So, the program that we are running is actually spoon-fed because we need to consider our ability to force products from the market and either liquidate the gold to pay or swap directly for oil. So that we are not limited in terms of the suppliers that we are dealing with. How is that problematic? In any event what is the issue really? So really I am wondering why we are on a tangential issue of whether it is gold for oil barter or it is gold sold to procure oil. At the end of the day what the Ghanaian consumer wants is he wants to buy fuel when he gets to the pumps without going to stand there for hours. The Ghanaian consumer wants a competitive price that will enable him to have value for money, the deputy Minister added. However, the Minority in Parliament has called for the suspension of the programme until full disclosure and consultation with stakeholders are done. Source: starrfm.com.gh Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) Mission Director Kimberly A. Rosen has disclosed that an educational partnership with the education ministry has so far trained more than 68,000 Ghanaian teachers across the country. According to her, the project since 2014, the project has trained more than 68,000 teachers, headteachers, and curriculum leads and reached over 750,000 students from kindergarten 2 to basic 2 in more than 7,200 schools across Ghana. Disclosing this at an event at the event co-hosted by the Ministry of Education, she s=disclosed that Reading at an early age improves educational outcomes and long-term livelihoods, benefiting communities across Ghana.We are committed to supporting the Ministry of Education (MOE) and its agencies to improve childrens reading performance in Ghana, The collaboration between USAID and Ghanas MOE through the Learning Activity is one of the key partnerships between Ghana and the United States. Joined by the Minister of Education Dr. Yaw Adutwum this week to conclude the USAID Partnership for Education Learning Activity, she added that this eight-year partnership supported the Ministry of Education (MOE) is to improve the reading skills of students in 11 Ghanaian languages and English. The collaboration between USAID and Ghanas MOE through the Learning Activity is one of the key partnerships between Ghana and the United States. The activity provided over 15 million high-quality teaching and learning reading materials, including teacher guides, pupil books, supplementary readers, and classroom materials including braille materials for visually impaired students all of which are aligned to the new curriculum and have been adopted nationwide for use in all public schools. At the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, the USAID partnered with the MOE, the Ghana Education Service, and the Ghana Broadcasting Corporation (GBC) to launch the National Reading Radio Program (NRRP), benefitting over 1.6 million learners, who were otherwise unable to access literacy programs. In January 2022, after a year of the radio lessons airing, 57 percent of children had higher English reading scores, helping to mitigate learning loss during the pandemic. About USAID The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) is the lead U.S. Government agency that works to end extreme global poverty and enable resilient, democratic societies to realize their potential. USAID's activities and strategic partnerships support Ghana's journey to self-reliance. Our work advances an integrated approach to development. It promotes accountability, sustainable systems, and inclusive development. Source: Isaac Kwame Owusu/Peacefmonline/[email protected] Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video Emergency agencies in Nigeria say 24 people have been rescued from a collapsed building in Abuja and three people have died after suffering fatal injuries. The three-storey structure with a basement was under construction when it came down on Thursday morning trapping an unidentified number of people, many of them workers. The building is believed to have been planned for a commercial complex in Gwarinpa, a sprawling residential suburb of the Nigerian capital. A combined team of emergency and security agencies, including some construction companies with heavy-duty equipment, was mobilized to the scene of the incident and worked overnight digging through the rubble to try to save people trapped in the collapsed building. Abbas Idris, head of the Federal Capital Territorys Emergency Agency in Abuja, told the BBC that it had been a battle to rescue the people and that the building was poor quality: "We discovered that a lot of corners have been cut, there are substandard materials used in this construction." Source: BBC Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video Charlottesville City Schools will officially take ownership of Charlottesville-Albemarle Technical Education Center on July 1, 2024, completing a takeover that Albemarle County Public Schools tried and failed to accomplish late last year. The prize is an institution that has provided career learning opportunities to thousands of city and county students since its founding 50 years ago and is considered by some to be the crown jewel of local schools. The city school board on Thursday unanimously voted to acquire the county school divisions stake in CATEC for $5.3 million. We wanted to continue the partnership with Albemarle County, Charlottesville School Board Vice-Chair Dom Morse told The Daily Progress on Thursday after the school boards vote. But based on their offer, we had to make a decision based on whether or not we wanted to protect the interests of our students. Morse was referring to the October 2022 offer made by Albemarle County Public Schools to buy Charlottesvilles interest in the property, just outside of city limits on Rio Road. In making the offer, the county dissolved the agreement between the two school divisions, which in turn allowed the city school division to launch a takeover bid of its own. The county knew that the Charlottesville school division could purchase CATEC when it presented its formal offer to the city on Dec. 13, 2022. The agreement clearly says if one partner makes an offer, the other party can either accept or match, Albemarle County Public Schools spokesman Phil Giaramita told The Daily Progress on Friday. If they match, then they may have ownership of the facility in this particular case. Charlottesville City Schools had 60 days to decide whether to accept Albemarles offer or purchase the countys stake in CATEC, according to an offer letter obtained by The Daily Progress. Just how students will be affected by the change in ownership is unclear, but Giaramita said the county was willing to risk losing its interest in CATEC out of a concern for its students. The primary focus has always been the kids at CATEC, Giaramita said. The county school division said that becoming the schools sole owner would allow it to make improvements to the facilities and better use the schools more than 10,000 square feet of space. For city schools, officials said the priority will be ensuring students can transition smoothly as the city assumes sole ownership of CATEC. This will not be an overnight change, Charlottesville City Schools Chief Operations Officer Kim Powell told The Daily Progress in an email. But we do have a need within the schools for more student learning options, and we see this as part of the citys larger vision for workforce development. A long partnership ends A 1969 operating agreement has dictated that the county and city school divisions are equal partners in CATEC. The school is mostly run by a central board that consists of three members from each divisions school board. Each division has split the costs of maintaining the facility. Albemarle County, which has more students at CATEC, pays a proportionately larger amount to fund the school. Charlottesville City Schools contributed $613,638 to CATECs operating budget for the 2021-2022 school year. Albemarle gave CATEC roughly $1.98 million for the same period. Whether the county school division makes further contributions to fund CATEC depends on if it has students at the technical school. We dont know that yet, Giaramita said. City school officials said they are still discussing just how county students might be involved in CATEC in the future. The offer the county presented to the city in December allowed city students to attend CATEC for free for three years. For seven years after that, city students who wanted to attend CATEC would have paid discounted tuition, Giaramita said. According to admissions information on CATECs website today, out-of-district students will pay $2,000 in tuition next school year. The difference between the city and the countys contribution to CATEC is based on the fact that only 67 of CATECs 358 students live in Charlottesville. Though its unclear how Charlottesville will make up for the gap in funding, Powell said the difference in enrollment encourages the city school division to work to accommodate the county. ACPS had little motivation to accommodate the needs of CCS students. However, we are in the opposite position. If ACPS is interested in continuing to use CATEC, we have incentive to create a model that works for their students as well as ours, Powell said. Giaramita disputed the notion that the county would have disregarded city students. Thats demonstrably false, Giaramita said. We talked with the city about the provisions for city students. Powell said the Charlottesville School Board made the decision to buy CATEC in consultation with the city government and was still in the early stages of planning. If they plan to send students to CATEC, well talk about the cost allocation model moving forward, Powell said. Difference of opinion Giaramita also said that the citys assertion that the county assessed CATECs value at $10.6 million was incorrect, though he wasnt sure whether the countys actual assessment was higher or lower than that. The city school division said its independent assessor valued the facilities at $11.87 million. We never told the city what our appraisal number was, Giaramita said. The 5.3 number is accurate but you cant simply take 5.3 and double it and say that means their evaluation was 10.6. Despite the fact that the nature of the countys future involvement in CATEC is uncertain, Giaramita said he remains optimistic about the divisions ability to offer career learning opportunities. CATEC clearly is not the only option for us, Giaramita said. The future is still very bright. City school officials expressed their own optimism. There are many options and we are excited about the opportunities for this facility and the programs, Powell said. New Patriotic Party flagbearer hopeful, Kennedy Ohene Agyapong has rejected any possibility of becoming a running mate of Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia if he fails in his bid and the latter wins the contest. Appearing on Metro TVs Good Evening Ghana programme earlier this week, the Assin Central Member of Parliament affirmed his resolve to go throught the contest to the end but emphasised that he will not be a running mate should he lose. I will support him (Bawumia) as an NPP member, I will support him for his campaign but I dont want to be his running mate, he stated. Asked by the host, Paul Adom Otchere on what his contribution will be to a Bawumia campaign if the vice president wins the race, Kennedy Agyapong said he will go ahead and support his campaign but maintained that he will not be his running mate. If I dont win, I am a party member; I am party member I will help, he stated. The likes of Kennedy Agyapong, Kwabena Agyapong, Joe Ghartey, Dr Afriyie Akoto and Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen, Francis Addai-Nimoh and Kofi Konadu Apraku have all announced their bids for the NPP flagbearership. Meanwhile, Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia who is yet to officially announce his bid is tipped as a lead contender in the race. Source: ghanaweb.com Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video Former president John Dramani Mahama has been referred to severally as the presumptive presidential flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) going into the 2024 general elections. This is ahead of May 13, 2023 presidential primaries that are expected to formally elect the NDCs flagbearer for 2024. Mahama, who was president between 2012 and 2017, is being challenged by two opponents to show what he will do differently if given the nod after losing two successive reelection bids in 2016 and 2020 to President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo. Kennedy Ohene Agyapong, Member of Parliament for Assin Central had harsh words for Mahama in a recent interview, describing his desire as borne of greed and that he is not an option given his previous record in office. Agyapong who is an NPP flagbearer hopeful said on Metro TVs Good Evening Ghana programme earlier this week: If you compare the two governments, Akufo-Addo and Mahama, Mahama is not an alternative to Ghana because the man has been fortunate to succeed Atta Mills for two years. He has been fortunate to go one term which is four years, six years and we saw what happened in this country, so, what is he going to tell Ghanaians again. What is Mahama going to tell Ghanaians? he asked. On his part, Koku Anyidoho, a former deputy General Secretary of the NDC also asked Mahama to justify why he deserves to be returned in 2024. The avowed Mahama critic tweeted his challenge on February 2, 2023. If John Mahama wants to be President again for only four years, let him tell us what he will do differently, he tweeted. Source: ghanaweb.com Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video The founder of the Ghana Freedom Party (GFP), Madam Akua Donkor announced her decision to contest the 2024 presidential election. The female politician was optimistic she would win the polls and emerge as the president of the republic. Madam Donkor stated that her policies to operate a free port and give media houses support, and free secondary education are key among the policies under her presidency. She has also disclosed that Adakabre Frimpong Manso, a Ghanaian veteran journalist would be her running mate. Madam Donkor who contested in the 2020 presidential election settled on the journalist as her tuning mate. She has decided to maintain him since she believes he is credible, trustworthy, incorruptible and a man of integrity. Speaking in an interview on Rainbow Radio 87.5Fm, Madam Donkor said Adakabre was one of the individuals who encouraged her when she first contested the Assembly election. She said the journalist has been supportive and a pillar of her political journey and such a person is rare. Source: rainbow radio Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video The global music industry is gearing up for one of its biggest nights of the year - the 65th Grammy Awards. With African artists receiving landmark nominations across different categories this year, Africa's most expansive music streaming and download platform, Boomplay, has announced a campaign to celebrate this feat. The streamer is providing its users with a free subscription to enjoy and discover music without any barriers and at no cost for the whole day on Monday, 6th February 2023, upon announcement of any African artist winning their category. Africa boasts eight nominations at this year's event, and at least one African artist is anticipated to bring home the coveted Grammys trophy at the end of the ceremony, setting up Boomplay users across the continent for a fitting celebration on the streaming platform. Tosin Sorinola, Boomplay's Director of Artist & Media Relations, shared, ''Boomplay has always been at the forefront of supporting African music and artists, and the free subscription initiative is another proof of our commitment to our mission to keep empowering the African music ecosystem to unlock its full potential. We are offering a free subscription to all our users for the celebration of African excellence in music at the 2023 Grammy awards". "With the one-day free subscription, music lovers can access our catalogue of over 95 million songs to stream ad-free content and download for offline play a perfect opportunity for music lovers to support and celebrate their favourite artists. We are very proud of the great strides African acts are making, putting African music on the map globally, and this is our way of cheering them on and showing our support.'' African music was duly represented when the Recording Academy released its list of nominees for the 65th Grammy Awards. Nigerian megastar Burna Boy and Beninese legend Angelique Kidjo are nominated in the Best Global Music Album category, while Ghana's Rocky Dawuni, Uganda's Eddy Kenzo, South Africa's Wouter Kellerman, Zakes Bantwini and Nombeco Zikode and Burna Boy are all up for Best Global Performance. Remarkably, outside the Global Music categories, Nigeria's Tems is nominated in the Best Melodic Rap Performance and Best Rap Song categories for her collaboration with Drake and Future on the charts-topping "Wait for You" song. Angelique Kidjo is also nominated in the Best Song Written for Visual Media category for her Woman King Song, "Keep Rising". Noted for its easy-to-use features and high-quality audio streaming, Boomplay offers an extensive library of songs and podcasts, as well as specially curated playlists from various genres and artists, updated regularly to ensure the latest hits are available. Boomplay users can create playlists, discover new music through personalized recommendations, and listen to songs offline. The streaming platform offers ad-free and offline playback of downloaded songs via affordable daily, weekly and monthly subscriptions and data bundle packages following its strategic partnerships with related telecommunication companies. More details on the #BoomplayFreeSubscription campaign can be found here:https://www.boomplay.com/share/buzz/4155442 Source: Peacefmonline.com Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video A vigil with photos of Morgan Harris is shown as family and friends of three murdered women gather in Winnipeg on Thursday, Dec. 1, 2022. Family members have said the women were vulnerable, and experienced periods of homelessness and addictions. THE CANADIAN PRESS/John Woods The Blue Ridge Area Food Bank is encouraging students to participate in its 2023 annual School Food Drive. Local students, educators and other interested parties can register to participate in the food drive until Feb. 27. Food will be collected at designated areas at participating schools and then donated to the food bank. All the food collected goes to the food bank and its pantry partners in the greater Charlottesville area. The annual School Food Drive boosts food supplies at the food bank in spring when donations typically run lower than usual. The food collected will provide meals for nearly 21,000 individuals and families experiencing hunger who are served each month by the Blue Ridge Area Food Bank and its 90 partners soup kitchens, shelters and nonprofits and programs throughout the city of Charlottesville and counties of Albemarle, Buckingham, Culpeper, Fluvanna, Greene, Madison and Orange. Since the annual School Food Drive began in 2011, schools and organizations have collected 84,883 pounds of food and helped provide 69,967 meals for neighbors. If your school or business would like to participate in the School Food Drive or learn more, contact volunteer and food drive coordinator Brynna Strand at bstrand@brafb.org by Feb. 27. Haxton's Heater Culminates With Victory in 2023 PCA $100,000 7-Handed High Roller February 04, 2023 Christian Zetzsche Contributor All but one tournament has concluded on the final day of the 2023 PokerStars Caribbean Adventure and the penultimate High Roller trophy was awarded to American poker pro Isaac Haxton. Out of 46 entries in Event #66: $100,000 7-Handed High Roller, he took home the biggest slice of the $4,508,460 prize pool after defeating German wunderkind Fedor Holz in heads-up play. It was the second victory for Haxton during this very successful stop at the Baha Mar Resort on The Bahamas. He came out on top of a three-way deal with Seth Davies and Adrian Mateos in the opening $100,000 PCA Super High Roller before banking almost half a million in the $25,000 8-Handed High Roller, falling short of a victory to Justin Bonomo and Rui Neves Ferreira. The third time was a charm again, and there were no deal discussions at all this time when Haxton and Holz battled for the victory. Coming into the duel with a slight lead, Haxton always remained on top to score a payday of $1,555,360, while Holz had to settle for a consolation prize of $1,014,400. "Only second place, but I'll take it ... it was kind of a sad heads-up," Holz told his German rail after he came up just shy of the win. The German has limited his live poker appearances in the last few years but hasn't forgotten any of the skills that gave him the label of "wunderkind". Haxton, in the meanwhile, was delighted with the outcome of the trip to The Bahamas. "Wow, what a week, can't complain," he said immediately after the final hand. Among those to cash were also Aleksejs Ponakovs, Steve O'Dwyer, Nick Petrangelo and David Peters. The aforementioned Mateos was eliminated by Haxton on the money bubble in rather cruel fashion. Final Result Event #66: $100,000 7-Handed High Roller Place Player Country Prize (in USD) 1 Isaac Haxton United States $1,555,360 2 Fedor Holz Germany $1,014,400 3 Aleksejs Ponakovs Latvia $698,800 4 Steve O'Dwyer Ireland $518,500 5 Nick Petrangelo United States $405,800 6 David Peters United States $315,600 Isaac Haxton, Luca Greenwood, Steve O'dwyer, Mike Watson, Justin Bonomo The final day recommenced with 12 Day 1 survivors out of 21 entries returning to their seats, but the late registration and re-entry period were available for the first hour. During that time frame, the field size more than doubled in a frantic opening stage. Big names of the international poker scene arrived and departed without anything to show for but an expensive final day of the series. Among the early casualties were the likes of Ben Heath, Mike Watson, Stephen Chidwick, and Timothy Adams. The $250,000 Super High Roller runner-up Jean-Noel Thorel was eliminated in a memorable three-way all-in in which David Yan pulled a rabbit out of the hat thanks to a runner-runner straight. Several eliminations in quick succession brought the field down to the final three tables with Justin Bonomo and Kannapong Thanarattrakul among those to depart. Chris Brewer, Michael Addamo, Bryn Kenney, and Cary Katz found no trip saver thereafter either while the exit of Day 1 chip leader Daniel Dvoress set up the final two tables. Short-handed play close to the money bubble brought with it the eliminations of Seth Davies and Kathy Lehne, which created the seven-handed final table on the money bubble. Adrian Mateos Haxton was responsible for bursting the bubble when he jammed ten-trey into the ace-king of Mateos and turned a wheel. It didn't take long to lose three short stacks in quick succession after that, as Peters, Petrangelo and O'Dwyer were gone within half an hour. Holz soared to the top of the leaderboard, and a pivotal hand then took place between Ponakovs and Haxton. The Latvian high-stakes crusher fired three barrels with the missed nut flush draw and was called by Haxton with just the middle pair. "I have to look it up later but the computers probably won't like it," eventual champion Haxton remarked right after it happened. Heads-up play between Holz and Haxton lasted for around an hour and small ball poker dictated the action right out of the gates. Eventually, Haxton established a commanding lead and ultimately prevailed with ten-eight suited versus king-nine suited to cap off the series in The Bahamas with a second trophy. This concludes the PokerNews live coverage from the PokerStars flagship series in the Caribbean, but the first stop of the European Poker Tour in Paris is just around the corner. Fedor Holz Sharelines Incredible Isaac Haxton does it again; takes down 2023 PCA $100,000 7-Handed High Roller. Tournament Poker Player Surrenders During Heads-Up Play & Just Takes 2nd-Place Money February 04, 2023 Jon Sofen Senior Editor U.S. Chad Holloway Executive Editor U.S. Jacob Mitich had the easiest heads-up battle ever literally in a $400 buy-in tournament at the Potomac Winter Poker Open when his opponent, William Pinkerton, simply conceded and took second-place money. We're not talking about chump change either as there was a $8,716 difference between first and second-place payouts. Pinkerton didn't even ask for an ICM chop, a chip chop, a Tomahawk Chop, or any kind of chop. He was down approximately 6-1 in chips and still had more than 10 big blinds. Clearly, he was an underdog at that point, but anyone who has followed tournament poker for more than, oh, five minutes, knows that you're never out until there isn't a single chip left in front of you. At the very least, he could've moved all in dark and rolled the figurative dice. Jacob Mitich Chip and a chair, as the late Poker Hall of Famer Jack "Treetop" Straus famously said. Just ask Phil Hellmuth, who rallied to win after being down approximately 96,000-4.000 in chips to Daniel Negreanu in the first of three High Stakes Duel matches between the two poker legends. Needless to say, the poker world was a bit flabbergasted by what transpired, which is why PokerNews reached out to Mitich (our attempts to locate Pinkerton were unsuccessful) to get a few more details. "Yeah, I definitely haven't had that happen before. It was extremely odd," Mitich explained. "As soon as the guy busted in third, the guy who I was heads-up with looked at my chips and said Ill just take second. I said what do you mean youll just take second and his response was, 'You have way too many chips, there is no way I can come back. I said okay, GG." Mitich, who offered to buy Pinkerton dinner, said that he believed his opponent to be a recreational player. In fact, Pinkerton had told him that he was attending flight school and just playing for fun. "The dealer said, 'Alright, were done here.' And floor guy was a little confused but he was just like, 'Alright, thats it I guess,'" Mitich said before adding, "Poker is alive." Event #6:$400 Monster Triple Stack Final Table Results Position Name Country Prize 1 Jacob Mitich United States $22,298* 2 William Pinkerton United States $13,582* 3 Brett Butz United States $9,865 4 James Liddell United States $7,617 5 Minwoo Ahn United States $5,506 6 Jim Dike United States $4,310 7 Belram Rais United States $3,212 8 Alan Gendelman United States $2,524 9 Cory Sitzman United States $1,835 *Denotes heads-up surrender. Strange End to a Poker Tournament PokerNews was on-site live reporting the 275-player Potomac Winter Poker Open no-limit hold'em tournament, which paid $22,298 to its winner. Pinkerton took home $13,582, nearly $9,000 less than he'd have won had he rallied to defeat Mitich. With three players left, Mitich was behind with against the of Brett Butz, who was all in and at risk preflop. Mitich would end up rivering a straight, sending Butz to the cashier's cage in third place ($9,865). That set up what was supposed to be heads-up play with the blinds at 150,000/300,000 and the chip leader up about 19,000,000 to 3,500,000. According to our live reporter, it appeared to him that Pinkerton was ready to go and wasn't too concerned with the potential pay jump. A $13k score is still a nice score, any way you slice it. Still, it was one of the more odd endings to a poker tournament you'll ever see. This wasn't an instance where a player lost to a runner-runner flush to bust with the tournament on the line, a common occurrence. Pinkerton simply decided to surrender instead of battling to beat the odds. Poker World Reacts As you probably expected, when news of the surrender spread on social media, the poker community was a bit flabbergasted and confused as to why anyone would just quit during heads-up play. Aubrey Williams (@TheAwwbrey) was baffled as to what she had just read from our live reporting update of the tournament conclusion. Wtf did I just read, the guy got to heads up and just gave up didnt even get a deal aaaa what???? https://t.co/Z8RoQq0NtL Aubrey Williams (@TheAwwbrey) "Maybe his opponent pulled some mind-clouding maneuver on him," Zachary Elwood wrote. "Maybe he had somewhere to be, or a flight to catch? there are only a few acceptable reasons why I could see someone giving up when HU," @yaboiijimothy opined. "Seeing several reasonable explanations on here but maybe they made a side deal?" @oldmaninvegas asked. "Pro tip: don't forfeit your chips in a tournament, especially in high ICM situations. Idk what how big of a chip deficit it was to start HU, but I'm sure he could have gotten at least $200 from the winner in a chop of sorts," @goad advised. PokerNews attempted to catch up with Pinkerton before he left the tournament room but were unable to locate him. Follow PokerNews Live Coverage of the Potomac Winter Poker Open Sharelines Is this maybe the weirdest ending to a poker tournament ever? Jon Sofen Senior Editor U.S. Follow on: All but one tournament has concluded on the final day of the 2023 PokerStars Caribbean Adventure and the penultimate High Roller trophy was awarded to American poker pro Isaac Haxton. Out of 46 entries in Event #66: $100,000 7-Handed High Roller, he took home the biggest slice of the $4,508,460 prize pool after defeating German wunderkind Fedor Holz in heads-up play. It was the second victory for Haxton during this very successful stop at the Baha Mar Resort on The Bahamas. He came out on top of a three-way deal with Seth Davies and Adrian Mateos in the opening $100,000 PCA Super High Roller before banking almost half a million in the $25,000 8-Handed High Roller, falling short of a victory to Justin Bonomo and Rui Neves Ferreira. The third time was a charm again and there was no deal discussions at all this time when Haxton and Holz battled for the victory. Coming into the duel with a slight lead, Haxton always remained on top to score a payday of $1,555,360, while Holz had to settle for a consolation prize of $1,014,400. "Only second place but I'll take it ... it was kind of a sad heads-up," Holz told his German rail after he came up just shy of the win. The German has limited his live poker appearances in the last few years but hasn't forgotten any of the skills that gave him the label of "wunderkind". Haxton, in the meanwhile, was delighted with the outcome of the trip to The Bahamas. "Wow, what a week, can't complain," he said immediately after the final hand. Among those to cash were also Aleksejs Ponakovs, Steve O'Dwyer, Nick Petrangelo and David Peters. The aforementioned Mateos was eliminated by Haxton on the money bubble in rather cruel fashion. Final Result Event #66: $100,000 7-Handed High Roller Place Player Country Prize (in USD) 1 Isaac Haxton United States $1,555,360 2 Fedor Holz Germany $1,014,400 3 Aleksejs Ponakovs Latvia $698,800 4 Steve O'Dwyer Ireland $518,500 5 Nick Petrangelo United States $405,800 6 David Peters United States $315,600 Isaac Haxton, Luca Greenwood, Steve O'dwyer, Mike Watson, Justin Bonomo The final day recommenced with 12 Day 1 survivors out of 21 entries returning to their seats but the late registration and re-entry period was available for the first hour. During that time frame, the field size more than doubled in a frantic opening stage. Big names of the international poker scene arrived and departed without anything to show for but an expensive final day of the series. Among the early casualties were the likes of Ben Heath, Mike Watson, Stephen Chidwick, and Timothy Adams. The $250,000 Super High Roller runner-up Jean-Noel Thorel was eliminated in a memorable three-way all-in in which David Yan pulled a rabbit out of the hat thanks to a runner-runner straight. Several eliminations in quick succession brought the field down to the final three tables with Justin Bonomo and Kannapong Thanarattrakul among those to depart. Chris Brewer, Michael Addamo, Bryn Kenney, and Cary Katz found no trip saver thereafter either while the exit of Day 1 chip leader Daniel Dvoress set up the final two tables. Short-handed play close to the money bubble brought with it the eliminations of Seth Davies and Kathy Lehne, which created the seven-handed final table on the money bubble. Adrian Mateos bubbled the event Haxton was responsible for bursting the bubble when he jammed ten-trey into the ace-king of Mateos and turned a wheel. It didn't take long to lose three short stacks in quick succession after that as Peters, Petrangelo and O'Dwyer were gone within half an hour. Holz soared to the top of the leaderboard and a pivotal hand then took place between Ponakovs and Haxton. The Latvian high-stakes crusher fired three barrels with the missed nut flush draw and was called by Haxton with just the middle pair. "I have to look it up later but the computers probably won't like it," eventual champion Haxton remarked right after it happened. Heads-up play between Holz and Haxton lasted for around an hour and small ball poker dictated the action right out of the gates. Eventually, Haxton established a commanding lead and ultimately prevailed with ten-eight suited versus king-nine suited to cap off the series on The Bahamas with a second trophy. This concludes the PokerNews live coverage from the PokerStars flagship series in the Caribbean but the first stop of the European Poker Tour in Paris is just around the corner. James Monroes Highland has announced a free virtual program about John Sidebottom, one of two free Black men who helped move an 18-year-old Monroe to safety during the Battle of Trenton in the American Revolution. The program will feature a virtual conversation with Sidebottoms seventh-great-nephew Caleb Dempsey-Richardson, a professor at Lindsey Wilson College in Columbia, Kentucky. We are delighted to have the opportunity to share this unique story for Black History Month, Highland Executive Director Sara Bon-Harper said in a statement. Professor Dempsey-Richardon's family history gives us fascinating insight into a largely unknown act of bravery during the American Revolution. The event is scheduled for 1 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 15. Registration is free and can be accessed at https://highland.org/event/virtual-program-hidden-history-at-the-battle-of-trenton/. James Monroes Highland is adjacent to Thomas Jeffersons Monticello near Charlottesville and was the home of the fifth president for nearly 25 years. Acquired by the College of William & Mary in 1974, it now offers tours and hosts public and private events. This story's headline was corrected to fix an error in the name of James Monroe's Highland. Facebook Twitter Pinterest Email Print Donald Trump Jr. thinks that Hunter Biden and his laptop are the reason why a Chinese spy balloon is drifting over the United States. Video: Junior says Hunter Bidens laptop is the reason for the Chinese balloon. pic.twitter.com/kWXyj07tTM Ron Filipkowski (@RonFilipkowski) February 3, 2023 Trump Jr. said, Do you think the billion-dollar Chinese investment into Hunter Biden was because he was a wonderful investor? All those incredible crackheads on Wall Street. Theres lots of them folks. The Chinese, you know, they dont do any due diligence. They just out billions the same way Oprah hands out books. Stop shoot the thing down, figure out whats going on, dont look like a weakling. Subscribe To Our Newsletter: Trump Jr. then complained that if one percent of this was going on with him and his dad it would be a never-ending global story, but because it is the Bidens, everybody ignores it. According to Donald Trump Jr., America looks weak if the nation doesnt show Hunter Bidens laptop whos boss by shooting down the Chinese spy balloon. None of this makes any sense. Donald Trump Jr. is stringing random things together in the hope that it will all connect Hunter Bidens laptop to the Chinese spy balloon. A balloon has caused the right to lose its collective mind. The right is terrified of an unarmed balloon that is not as powerful as spy satellites. The Hunter Biden scandal has not taken off, so Donald Trump is trying to launch it by linking Hunter Biden to a spy balloon. Facebook Twitter Pinterest Email Print The Pentagon is warning that shooting down the Chinese spy balloon could endanger the lives of Americans with falling debris, but that hasnt stopped Republicans from calling for it to be shot down. Here is just a sample of the Republicans who would like to kill some Americans with falling debris: Biden should shoot down the Chinese spy balloon immediately. President Trump would have never tolerated this. President Trump would have never tolerated many things happening to America. Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (@RepMTG) February 2, 2023 Shoot down the Chinese spy balloon. Go ahead and send the Secretary of State to China next week. Have @SecBlinken Look them in the eye and tell em- it better never happen again. Thats Peace Through Strength Mike Pence (@Mike_Pence) February 3, 2023 (Mike Pence isnt very up on current events. Sec. of State Blinkens trip to China was already canceled before he tweeted.) Former President Donald Trump posted on Truth Social and called for the U.S. to shoot down a suspected Chinese spy balloon that was spotted in American airspace. https://t.co/l4rVVhDRxx pic.twitter.com/y5kfgBBtj9 NEWSMAX (@NEWSMAX) February 3, 2023 (Trump is an expert on killing Americans. He wiped out nearly a million of us during COVID.). Why won't Biden shoot down the Chinese spy balloon that is currently flying over the United States? The Chinese Communist Party is a threat to our existence. Sen. Marsha Blackburn (@MarshaBlackburn) February 2, 2023 (Marsha Blackburn doesnt understand why Biden is so reluctant to jeopardize innocent American lives.) It turns out that President Biden immediately considered shooting down the Chinese spy balloon, but there was a reason why he decided against it right now. CBS News reported: A source familiar with the situation told CBS News that, when briefed on Wednesday, Mr. Biden had initially wanted to shoot down the balloon. But as he sought military options from Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, Milley and others, they advised against such action because of the risk to people on the ground. The administration was still deciding Friday what to do about the balloon when it reaches an area where it would be safe to shoot down, a U.S. official told CBS News. Subscribe To Our Newsletter For More Stories Like This: The balloon is not small. It is three buses long, so shooting it down in an area with any population would put lives at risk. The balloon also does not contain any more intelligence-gathering capability than China already has with satellites, so it is not an immediate threat to national security or the American people. Republicans want to shoot down the balloon as a political gesture, and they dont care if people die. The bigger threat to human life isnt the Chinese balloon, but the Republicans who want to shoot it down right now. Facebook Twitter Pinterest Email Print The Democratic presidential nomination process will no longer begin with states that do not look like many Democrats as the new primary calendar highlights diverse states. The New York Times reported: For years, Democratic nominating contests have begun with the Iowa caucuses and the New Hampshire primary, a matter of immense pride in those states, and a source of political identity for many highly engaged residents. But amid forceful calls for a calendar that better reflects the racial diversity of the Democratic Party and the country and after Iowas 2020 meltdown led to a major delay in results Democrats endorsed a proposal that would start the 2024 Democratic presidential primary circuit on Feb. 3 in South Carolina, the state that resuscitated Mr. Bidens once-flailing candidacy. It would be followed by New Hampshire and Nevada on Feb. 6, Georgia on Feb. 13 and then Michigan on Feb. 27. African-American and Hispanic Democrats will now play a much larger role in the primary process than under the old calendar. For years, momentum has been growing for Iowa to lose its first-in-the-nation status. The complete failure of the 2020 Iowa caucuses pretty much sealed the deal. Democratic candidates will now appeal to African-American voters in South Carolina instead of trudging through the snow to meet rural white farmers in Iowa. Black voters in Detroit and Atlanta will now get a larger role in determining who will represent the Democratic party at the top of the presidential ticket. These changes dont mean much for 2024 as President Biden is likely to run virtually unopposed for the Democratic nomination, but Iowa bounces for candidates who cant win in the rest of the country are a thing of the past, as Democrats make a move that reflects the future of their party. Monday evening the public has an opportunity to offer feedback on the proposed plan to build a Savannah River National Laboratory workforce development center in the block surrounded by Richland Avenue, Laurens and Newberry Streets and Park Avenue. An informational and public input session will be held at 6 p.m. Monday at the Center for African American History Art and Culture located at 120 York St. N.E. Employees of project consultant McMillan Pazdan Smith, an architectural firm, will facilitate the meeting. City staff will receive public comments. The proposed plan calls for the demolition of the Warneke Cleaners building and the 1981-built motel strip fronting Bee Lane known as the Holley House and possibly the old gun store on Richland Avenue. These buildings would be replaced by the workforce development center. The C.C. Johnson Building would be historically renovated to its original appearance. The adjacent retail buildings would be renovated and upgraded as part of the plan. Newberry Hall and Taj Aiken would remain where they are. Warneke Cleaners would be relocated to newly created retail space facing Richland Avenue. Plans also call for the development of a surface parking lot across from St. John's United Methodist Church and a parking structure at the Municipal Building. Hotel Aiken's future will be determined by the results of a request for proposal issued by the city. And the former Municipal Building (214 Park Ave.) could be sold to the county for use as an office for Second Judicial Circuit Solicitor Bill Weeks' staff. Editor's note: We Are Aiken County is a series of articles that will run through Feb. 26. It celebrates people, places and events that shaped Aiken County. A slice of life from 1865 is at the heart of one of Aiken County's most popular annual events, with the vicinity of Powell Pond Road getting thousands of visitors for the Battle of Aiken reenactment. The February event represents a clash that occurred as Union troops, en route to sacking Columbia and Charleston, were challenged by Confederate forces. Hundreds of reenactors from around several states take part in the presentation. Organization is by Aiken's Sons of Confederate Veterans camp, named for Brig. Gen. Barnard E. Bee. "Everything is very authentic," in the words of reenactment commander Danny Francis. "They have the same uniforms ... Everything is very accurate. It's not like a carnival or something. We pretty much show what it was." Francis estimated the event's 2022 attendance as "several thousand," and noted, "We're the biggest reenactment in South Carolina, and ... number four in the nation." Among the traditional high-profile guests is Joe Long, curator of education for the South Carolina Confederate Relic Room and Military Museum. "Books and media and even museums can reach a certain number of people with history, but there's something special about direct experience," he said. "They tell us that you can learn through all of your senses, and the Battle of Aiken is a great place to awaken an interest in history, where you can smell the gunpowder, and where there aren't glass walls between you and the historical events." Francis said the three-day, weekend event is hugely popular for school field trips, particularly on Fridays, when emphasis is on education. "We have as many as 3,000 school kids there on Friday, and there's no charge for it." Participants are volunteers, he added. "It's a lot of fun ... with the cannons and the rifles and cavalry. It's really spectacular." Long made similar comments. "It's a very special experience, and opportunities to do this are decreasing. There are fewer places that host reenactments than there used to be. It is a unique event, and ... I do work for the state's oldest military museum, and I can't count the number of times that a visitor who has made a museum trip to learn more has told me that their interest was kindled by attending that reenactment in Aiken," he said. A marker on Chesterfield Street N.E., near Richland Avenue, reads, "Near this spot on February 11, 1865 was fought one of the final Confederate victories of the War Between The States. Federal Cavalry commanded by Major General Hugh Judson Kirkpatrick were attacked by Confederate Cavalry commanded by Major General Joseph Wheeler when the Federals entered Aiken from the south east along the South Carolina Railroad. The Federals retreated to Montmorenci where their infantry support was stationed. Successful defense of Aiken by the Confederates prevented the possible destruction of the cities of Aiken, Augusta and the Graniteville Mill." The annual event takes place at 1210 Powell Pond Road, just south of I-20's exit 18. This year's activities are set for Feb. 24-26. A Charlottesville man who previously was sentenced to life imprisonment on drug and gun charges, but had his sentence reduced, has been charged with the murder of Eldridge Skeeta Smith. Charlottesville police on Friday arrested Tadashi Demetrius Keyes, 38, in connection with Smiths murder on Jan. 28. Smiths bullet-riddled body was found in an SUV just before 10 p.m. that night near Fifeville Park, not far from the University of Virginia. Smith was a member of the citys B.U.C.K. Squad, a group dedicated to removing gun violence from the citys streets. According to a B.U.C.K. Squad Instagram post, Smith was on his way to work when he was killed. Keyes faces one count of second-degree murder and one count of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, police said in a statement on Friday. Keyes was taken into custody without incident, police said, and was being held at Albemarle-Charlottesville Regional Jail as of Friday night. Police said before Keyes arrest that they believed Smith knew his murderer, but law enforcement officials on Friday said they could not discuss at this time how the two might have known one another. I cannot get into any details in reference to motive, Charlottesville Police Chief Michael Kochis told The Daily Progress. Keyes is not new to the criminal justice system. On Sept. 21, 2004, Keyes was sentenced to life imprisonment plus 120 months after he was found guilty for conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of cocaine and possession and use of a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime. He maintained his innocence throughout his trial. In 2002 law enforcement began investigating a large-scale drug conspiracy in Charlottesville, Virginia, according to court records. Keyes, who was 18 at the time, was identified by police as an enforcer in a narcotics business dubbed Estes Street Inc., named after the area in which it operated. According to Daily Progress coverage of the trial, Keyes was second lieutenant under a man named Gregory Felton, known as Capone on the streets. Keyes participated in a conspiracy that distributed significant quantities of cocaine in Charlottesville, according to court records. He was known as one of the organizations enforcers, pulling the trigger at least once to cause bodily injury, and being present with other co-conspirators when Felton committed murder in furtherance of the conspiracy. Keyes and Felton were both arrested, charged and convicted on those counts. Felton was sentenced to two life terms. Keyes was sentenced to a single life term plus 120 months. Those sentences, however, didnt stick. In March of last year, Feltons was reduced to 360 months and Keyes was reduced to 280 months. Keyes was released in September. Feltons name could not be found in a search of the Virginia Department of Corrections or Federal Bureau of Prisons databases. In his decision to reduce Keyes sentence, Judge Norman K. Moon referenced Keyes young age at the time of the original crime, the fact that Keyes was present for but not guilty of murder as well as the 2010 passing of the Fair Sentencing Act, which reduced sentencing disparities between cocaine and crack cocaine offenses, which were widely criticized for producing racially disproportionate sentencing outcomes. In his petition to have his sentenced reduced, Keyes told the court that his actions were not that of a violent agitator who poses a continued risk to public safety, but someone simply trying to survive in remarkably dangerous environments. A European spacecraft has blasted off on a quest to explore Jupiter and three of its ice-encrusted moons. Dubbed Juice, the robotic explorer set off on an eight-year journey Friday from French Guiana in South America, launching atop an Ariane rocket. Juice is taking a long, roundabout route. It should reach Jupiter in 2031 and spend three years buzzing Callisto, Europa and Ganymede. Then it will attempt to enter orbit around Ganymede, our solar system's largest moon. The three moons are believed to harbor underground oceans, where sea life could exist. If underground seas are confirmed, ice picks and a submarine could be next up. Read moreEuropean spacecraft on way to Jupiter and its icy moons The political class in Columbia is all atwitter about Supreme Court justices and whether the nominee up for election Wednesday was properly vetted: Did lawmakers ask the right questions about judicial philosophy? Did lawmakers on the nominating commission pick the right candidates? Are these even appropriate questions to be asking? But long after lawmakers elevate Appeals Court Judge Gary Hill to the high court, and after the perennial effort fails to strip out what little merit resides in the states merit selection process, and after the court ceases saving the Legislature from itself by striking down politically unpopular abortion laws, well still be left with the biggest problem in South Carolinas court system: the magistrates. Unlike those vying for seats on the Supreme Court, Court of Appeals, Circuit Court and Family Court, magistrates dont have to make it through the nominating process to be considered. In fact, theyre not vetted at all, at least not in any public or objective way. And the way many are selected creates some of the clearest conflicts of interest in all of state government. Years worth of investigative reporting by The Post and Courier and others have uncovered scandal after scandal within the magistrate system: from judges who dont understand the basic principles of fairness and routinely refuse to even listen to defendants claims of self-defense to judges who routinely ignore state law and have trouble passing a test that asks them to identify the "smallest number" and "earliest date" from a list. (Magistrates dont have to be lawyers, some dont have to be college graduates, and we require less state training for them than for barbers and masseuses.) Yet while they dont decide constitutional questions or oversee the highest-profile criminal and civil cases, magistrates are the judges South Carolinians are most likely to encounter. They handle traffic tickets and small claims, and they can send people to jail for up to a month. Perhaps the biggest problem with magistrates involves a conflict of interest that isn't even their fault: Although state law says theyre appointed by the governor, the reality is that local senators hand-pick them, based largely if not entirely on politics, and the governor rubber-stamps those selections. In many cases, magistrates are selected by a single senator sometimes a senator who represents clients before them in court. They serve for four-year terms but stay in office until a successor is confirmed; that means a senator can refuse to replace or reappoint them and keep them in holdover status a sort of hostage situation that allows them to be removed immediately if they displease the senator. Did I mention that some senators practice law in those holdover magistrates courtrooms? Or that some senators wind up in front of them on criminal charges of their own, as happened most dramatically in 2008, when then-Sen. Randy Scott, arrested on a DUI charge, was recorded all but threatening to depose a magistrate if he didnt come get the senator out of the Dorchester County jail in the middle of the night? All of this is background to explain three more of my favorite longshot bills that lawmakers have proposed this year. H.3535 by Reps. Joe White, Bill Chumley and Thomas Beach attempts to get at the squalid condition of some magistrates resumes. It requires would-be magistrates to be screened by the Judicial Merit Selection Commission, which simply would give them a thumbs up or thumbs down. Local senators would nominate two candidates to the governor if feasible. This would be a logistical nightmare for the screening commission, composed as it is mainly of legislators, but it's a great idea to require some entity to screen the candidates. S.409 by Sen. Tom Corbin and 11 other senators, mostly non-lawyers, prohibits senators from practicing law before magistrates in their counties. Violators would automatically lose their office, which is a bit draconian even for my taste. Im not sold on a separate bill that prohibits lawyer-legislators from appearing before higher court judges if they participate in elections, because its unfair to tell lawyers they cant practice law, and I think their input is valuable in judicial races. But until someone comes up with a way to reduce the incredible power an individual senator has over the appointment of magistrates, this makes sense. My favorite approach is S.155 by Aiken Sen. Tom Young, which tackles the holdover problem by allowing the governor to replace a magistrate who hasnt been reappointed within 14 days after his or her term ends. This appointment wouldn't need Senate confirmation, but it would be temporary until the local senator recommended either reappointing the holdover magistrate or appointing someone else. The bill also says a magistrate who has been reprimanded by the Supreme Court cant be reappointed until the full Senate has been informed of the reprimand and still voted to support the reappointment, a fix to a problem from 2019 when the governor unknowingly appointed and the Senate unknowingly confirmed a magistrate who had been reprimanded and suspended from office by the high court. I think its important that we have competent, honest, courteous people in the office," said Sen. Young, himself a lawyer. He said hed love to require magistrates to be lawyers, but he called these two reforms low-hanging fruit that he thinks might have a chance of passing. It seems to me that there is an undercurrent to do more in the area of magistrate reform this year, he told me Wednesday. Ive heard that from multiple senators. Of course, the problem long has been that a few senators adamantly oppose anything that will reduce their ability to have their way with their magistrates, and most senators dont want reform badly enough to force the issue. One thing that can change that is for them to hear from enough of their constituents who demand reform. Sen. Young's bill would be a great one to get behind, because unlike the two others, there is absolutely no legitimate objection to it. Click here for more opinion content from The Post and Courier. A seafood restaurant that's served the Charleston region for nearly four decades has turned out the lights, boarded up the building and removed all signage. Red Lobster closed Jan. 29 at 2080 Sam Rittenberg Blvd. The seafood dining chain opened near a Mark Clark Expressway offramp in 1984, a couple of years after the nearby Citadel Mall started drawing hordes of shoppers and traffic to that section of West Ashley. The Orlando-based dining company said Feb. 3 the time had come to move its menu options elsewhere. "We regularly review our restaurant portfolios as part of the normal course of business, and as a result, we have concluded that this location is no longer right for Red Lobster," spokeswoman Lia Reynolds said in a statement. Sign up for our real estate newsletter! Get the best of the Post and Courier's Real Estate news, handpicked and delivered to your inbox each Saturday. Email Sign Up! The company said employees were offered jobs at other Red Lobster locations, including the restaurant at 2460 Mall Drive in North Charleston, which opened in 1978 and is still in business. "In closing this location, we hope to redeploy and add resources to other locations where we can continue in our growth, whether its by developing our people in a new way or providing more innovative food choices to our guests," the company said. The 2-acre restaurant site last sold in 2015 for nearly $3 million to WV Lonestar Owner LLC of Orlando, according to Charleston County land records. The casual seafood dining chain was founded in 1968 and is now owned by Thai Union Group and Red Lobster Management LLC. It currently has 667 locations in 44 states, including a dozen in South Carolina. In 2019, the company operated about 750 restaurants across the nation. Charleston, SC (29403) Today A mix of clouds and sun. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High 79F. Winds S at 10 to 15 mph.. Tonight A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible early. Partly cloudy. Low 61F. Winds SW at 5 to 10 mph. Columbia, SC (29201) Today Mostly cloudy skies. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High 79F. Winds SW at 5 to 10 mph.. Tonight Mostly cloudy early, then clearing overnight. Low 57F. Winds light and variable. COLUMBIA As studies and reports suggest that public school dress codes are disproportionately enforced on girls and students of color, the Columbia area's two largest school districts have worked to loosen restrictions over the past year. Administrators in Richland County School District Two and Lexington County School District One, the state's fifth- and sixth-largest districts with about 28,000 students each, say student feedback prompted changes, including allowing more tank tops, piercings and tight-fitting clothing, and lightening the consequences for breaking the remaining restrictions. The changes at Richland Two, which covers northeast areas of the county, changes also removed bans on hair accessories including do-rags, hair picks and combs, and also removed a rule that shorts and skirts needed to be fingertip length. In Lexington One, however, bottoms still won't be able to be shorter than the "mid-thigh." Richland Two's new rules include language that students should be able to dress in a manner that expresses their individuality without fear of unnecessary discipline or body shaming. Lexington One notes that enforcement of the dress code will be handled with dignity, discretion, and respect toward all students by school staff members." Restrictions on clothes related to gangs, alcohol or drugs, or that reveal underwear or bellies, remain at the districts. The new rules are currently working their way towards approval in Lexington One and were approved in Richland Two in August. Rarely have I ever had any single issue where Ive heard from as many students as I have had from young women on the dress code issues, former Richland Two Board Chair James Manning said. Ridge View High School junior Katherine Milburn emphasized the need for inclusivity when she spoke in front of the board in support of loosening the dress-code policy. I think that (the new policy) is much improved and will help the district a lot in moving towards being more inclusive and making students feel safer, she said. A three-story parking garage used by hundreds daily in the heart of downtown is now closed due to structural safety issues another expensive casualty of rusted innards caused by salt and water. The Wentworth Garage a 500-space downtown landing spot for tourists, hungry locals and College of Charleston students is among 13 on the peninsula that an engineer warned the city and the college in 2018 were in need of more than $3 million in immediate repairs. Those repairs didn't happen, and problems at the Wentworth Garage worsened to the point that it was deemed unsafe to keep it open, officials said. What's more, all of the others had clear early signs of the wear and tear from salt and water that, without repairs, can lead to closure or collapse: Rusting steel, exposed rebar or cracked concrete. "(Corrosion) is a very rapid acceleration once it starts It might take 20 to 30 years to start but once it does, it might only take five or 10 years to affect the structural integrity of a building," said Paul Vinik, a Florida-based engineer and corrosion expert. The Wentworth Garage was built in 1982, making it the second-oldest city-supported parking deck in use. The oldest was built in 1979. Engineers had initially estimated in 2018 that $11 million in repair work was needed to the network of garages by 2028. It's unclear if or by how much that estimate has increased due to delays in maintenance. By the time construction crews arrived to repair Wentworth in June 2022, they discovered corrosion of the structure's steel support system had spread too far to keep the garage open. The garage, located on city-owned property, is owned by the College of Charleston. The city has overseen minor repairs through the years, but the college agreed in 2018 to take responsibility for the major rehab the garage needed. Now the garage sits in limbo while the college determines whether the structure can be salvaged after decades of deterioration in the harsh coastal environment. Salt speeds up the rusting process, which can threaten a structure's stability if left untreated. The worst-case scenario played out in Florida two summers ago when the Champlain Towers condominium caved in, killing 98 people. The collapse sparked concerns about tall structures standing near the beach. Ninety miles up the South Carolina coast from Charleston, the 22-story Renaissance Tower in Horry County remains unoccupied after an emergency evacuation in October triggered by dangerously damaged concrete and steel. The Post and Courier previously identified hundreds more high-rises close enough to the South Carolina coast to be at higher risk of damage as they age in places where where salt travels in the air and water. Using the same method mapping elevator permits in coastal storm surge zones the paper found more than 60 parking garages along the coastline, clustered almost exclusively in Charleston and Myrtle Beach. Theyre a mix of public decks and private ones for hotels or hospitals. More than a dozen are at least 30 years old, and two dozen more have stood for 20 years. Experts say parking garages are particularly vulnerable because of their exposure to the elements. "One aspect is the sheer surface area," corrosion expert Vinik said. "A parking garage is usually many layers and its not enclosed." Often, the extent of the damage can be difficult to detect. Rust so severe that some connective pieces had disintegrated wasnt apparent at Renaissance Tower until workers got a clear view inside its supports. Wentworth shares a similar story, with workers finding conditions worse than they expected as they started other repair work. And it was doomed from day one, built in a way now known to allow moisture intrusion and stability problems. In a new report commissioned by the college and completed in September, engineering firm Wiss, Janney, Elstner Associates, or WJE, found that corrosion among the steel support system of the Wentworth garage was severe enough to warrant shutting the parking structure down. The inspection only looked at portions of the garage so the report called for a more detailed look at the structure before determining whether it is better to repair it or tear it down. "Hopefully, they're lucky. But if the stats so far are confirmed, then that becomes a more expensive job," said Fabio Matta, a University of South Carolina associate engineering professor who reviewed the report at the request of The Post and Courier. "In theory, not all hope is lost. But it's a serious situation." What went wrong at Wentworth In 2018, the city of Charleston commissioned a report on all 12 city-owned garages in addition to the Wentworth Garage. Only one garage was reported in "good" condition. The rest fell somewhere between poor and fair to good. The report identified $7 million in repairs needed across all of the structures by the end of 2023 and an additional $4 million needed by 2028. That hasnt happened. At another parking deck, the 20-year-old aquarium garage, cracks in the concrete and exposed rebar remain today. So do cracks and gaps around the elevator shafts that can allow salty, moist air and water to infiltrate the structure. Duct tape holds the elevator button panel to the wall on the fourth floor. The exposed steel is rusting, which will cause further deterioration, the report notes of the garage thats newer than all but two in the citys inventory. City Council set aside $3.45 million for immediate repairs across all the garages in the citys 2020 budget, a figure that doesn't include more than $1 million the college expects to spend on Wentworth. But the city's plans were put on hold because of the COVID-19 pandemic. The allocation was struck from the budget and then brought back in 2022. The college's plans came too late for Wentworth. Each floor of the Wentworth garage is supported by 36 concrete beams that run the width of the building. Think of the slats on a bedframe that hold up a mattress. Inside each beam is a twisted rope of steel strands that anchors onto either side of the building, creating tension that helps support the floor above. Engineers found that water seeping into the center of some of the concrete beams corroded the steel strands enough to leave them completely slack, rendering them useless. In the beam with the worst damage, five out of eight strands had corroded enough to go slack. Although more work needs to be done to determine the extent of the damage, the presence of any corrosion at all is cause for alarm, Vinik said. When the Wentworth garage was built, it was considered common knowledge in the construction community that concrete was impermeable, Vinik said. But that wasn't true. Concrete, especially of the quality used at the time, was actually quite porous. "(Concrete) is more closely related to a sponge, it absorbs moisture and water," he said. "If that water contains salt and reaches the steel reinforcements, it causes them to corrode." While more modern building practices include better quality concrete, stainless steel and alternative materials, coastal communities need to be vigilant about the conditions of older structures, many of which are reaching a breaking point at the same time, Matta said. "It's a daunting issue," he said. "Previous generations did a lot of work to build infrastructure perhaps, the new generations have to shift the focus on maintaining, and when they cannot maintain, rebuilding better using new technologies." When repair work began, crews alerted the College of Charleston about the extent of the corrosion. "The garage has not collapsed and likely would not experience a collapse but due to the age and complexity of the structural issues, the College decided to close the structure permanently," college spokesman Mike Robertson said. While the garage has not collapsed, Matta said, the conditions listed in the report indicate at least part of it could. "You don't have to look at this problem in extremes, meaning will it collapse or will it stay up," Matta said. "But what can happen is one beam goes down and causes damage and you just have to hope a car is not underneath it." Although funding for the city's repairs is behind the recommended schedule outlined in the 2018 report, none of its garages is facing structural issues as severe as those that forced Wentworth to close, according to the city's Capital Project's Team. A Coastal conundrum The deadly collapse in Florida prompted a great deal of talk and action surrounding the safety of tall buildings, but parking garages are often left out of that discussion. Florida lawmakers, for example, passed a bill that required all condos to be recertified after 30 years if they are three stories or taller. Condos within 3 miles of the coast will be recertified at 25 years. Once a condo reaches its recertification date, it must be reinspected every 10 years. That process includes taking a look at condo parking areas, but inspection requirements for standalone garages are rare across the U.S.. The hope is that inspections will prevent tragedy, but they will also save building owners money in the long run. A generally accepted rule of thumb with concrete, known as De Sitter's Law of Fives, says that repairs cost five times more than maintenance, and rehabilitation costs five times more than repairs. In South Carolina, buildings are not required to be reinspected once built and issued a certificate of occupancy. A bill to change that was recently refiled in the state legislature after failing to gain traction during the last session. In Charleston, the city began conducting a survey in mid-December to determine how many buildings six stories or taller exist within the citys boundaries, as well as which ones may need a structural inspection. While parking decks would not be included in that survey, city officials say those buildings are already on their radar and part of a long-term maintenance plan. Officials in Horry County and the cities of Myrtle Beach, and North Myrtle Beach say they have no plans to conduct structural safety inspections on tall buildings or parking decks. They said its the responsibility of building owners to monitor structural integrity. Briah Lumpkins contributed to this report. NORTH CHARLESTON A North Charleston homeless shelter with a troubled past has been shut down by the city's fire and health inspectors. Chief Fire Marshal David Ringley ordered everyone out of the North Charleston Community Interfaith Shelter on Burton Lane as of Jan. 30 because conditions are so dangerous. Ryan Johnson, spokesman for the mayor's office, said Feb. 3 the city has worked with the former residents in helping them find new housing. The city code gives the fire marshal authority to order a building evacuated if the conditions of the building pose a "clear and inimical threat to human life, safety or health." Based on inspections that spanned Jan. 10-24, Ringley made the determination the shelter was a danger. According to the inspection report, the shelter's only fire extinguishers were not accessible and the fire detection and alarm system was not working. Additional hazards cited included open electrical junction boxes and exposed wiring splices, as well as an accumulation of combustible and flammable material. Repairs and corrections must be made immediately or civil and criminal action may be taken, according to Ringley's notice. A follow-up inspection is scheduled March 2. A Feb. 28 hearing is also set before the city's Public Safety and Housing Committee to determine if the shelter is unfit for human habitation or otherwise constitutes a public nuisance. In addition to the inspection by the fire marshal, the health officer of the city's code enforcement inspected the shelter. According to a complaint filed on behalf of the city in state court Feb. 2, that inspection revealed a leaking roof, padlocked doors, exposed electrical wiring, no hot water or adequate heat and an accumulation of trash and waste material. The Post and Courier's attempts to reach the shelter's representative who signed off on the fire marshal's report were not successful Feb. 3. This week's action isn't the first time the city has taken legal steps against the shelter. A court order in October 2017 gave the shelter 90 days to bring the 32-bed facility up to code. The Community Interfaith Shelter is not registered as a charity with the S.C. Secretary of State's office. It was granted federal tax exemption as a nonprofit in 1992, but no tax information has been filed since 2013, according to Guidestar, which provides information about nonprofits in the U.S. Charleston County property records show taxes are due on the Burton Lane facility. The shelter, which has also been known as the Good Neighbor Center, was the subject of a prior investigation by The Post and Courier which raised questions about the use of more than half-million dollars in grant funds and how the former director doubled her salary. The Department of Veterans Affairs soon followed with its own investigation about the use of a VA grant given for the expansion of the facility to house homeless veterans. According to court records, the shelter had been the subject of liens and litigation since 2011. Former Vice President Mike Pence will meet with North Charleston Police Chief Reggie Burgess when he travels to South Carolina next week for a law enforcement roundtable in a city that was once at the center of a national reckoning over police violence against African Americans. The Feb. 6 visit, which was announced by Pences political action committee Feb. 3, puts Pence back in a key presidential primary state that has been attracting a steady stream of Republican contenders and could-be candidates. Additional details about the visit were not immediately disclosed but he will also be traveling to Horry County, a GOP stronghold, later in the day. "I look forward to collaborating with the vice president and local law enforcement leaders to talk about issues facing police," Burgess said in a provided statement to The Post and Courier. Pence's return to South Carolina comes nine days before former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley will formally announce her 2024 presidential campaign, and 10 days before U.S. Sen. Tim Scott, R-S.C., kicks off his "Faith in America" tour in Charleston. Scott is another potential GOP 2024 contender. For Pence, the Feb. 6 visit is his ninth trip to the early primary state since he left office. According to his political action committee, Pence is planning two stops in the Palmetto State: a roundtable in the afternoon in North Charleston with law enforcement officials amid "renewed calls to defund the police," followed by a meet-and-greet in the evening with business and civic leaders in Myrtle Beach. The roundtable and its description suggests Pence will focus in part on renewed efforts by Congress to pass police reform legislation after five officers were accused of killing 29-year-old Tyre Nichols in Memphis last month. North Charleston endured a similar incident in the not-so-distant past. On April 4, 2015, Walter Scott was fatally shot by Michael Slager, a White North Charleston police officer, after he fled on foot following a traffic stop over a broken brake light. After a cellphone video of the shooting was released to the public, disproving the initial police narrative about how Scott had died, Slager was charged federally and in state court in the killing. In May 2017, Slager pleaded guilty in federal court to civil rights violations and was sentenced to 20 years in prison. Last year, North Charleston recently formed a Police and Community Committee. The group is tasked with working alongside law enforcement to implement the recommendations made from the citys 2021 racial bias audit. The report, compiled by Virginia-based firm CNA, found disparities in a number of police practices, including traffic stops, use of force, arrests and field interviews. Sen. Scott, who has led GOP efforts on police reform in the Senate, is not scheduled to attend the roundtable at this time, his office confirmed. Like Pence, Scott is privately weighing whether to mount a 2024 Republican presidential bid. According to an annual report from the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division, the murder rate in the state is at its highest level since 1991. A Covington man was sentenced to 32 months in prison Thursday for forcing his way into the U.S. Capitol with a mob and then, on his way out, destroying the television equipment of reporters who were covering the insurrection. Joshua Dillon Haynes previously was active in local government and served on the Covington Planning Commission. As he struggled with mental instability, isolation caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and other factors, Haynes descended into the far reaches of right wing propaganda, according to his attorney, Steven Kiersh. He began to believe in the messages he viewed online and that is what brought him to Washington D.C. on Jan. 6, 2021, Kiersh wrote in a sentencing memorandum. Covingtons city council appointed Haynes, 40, to the planning commission in October 2018 for a four-year term, its minutes show. He resigned in early 2020, according to Gisela Roldan with the citys Development Services. Haynes is profoundly remorseful for taking part in the Capitol riots, actions that do not reflect his true character, Kiersh said. He quickly accepted responsibility, and last October pleaded guilty to obstruction of an official proceeding and destruction of property. At a hearing Thursday afternoon, U.S. District Judge Tanya Chutkan followed the U.S. Attorneys recommendation of 32 months, which was at the high end of sentencing guidelines. Following his release, Haynes will be on probation for three years. He was also ordered to pay $2,000 in restitution for damage to the Capitol grounds his portion of an estimated $2.8 million loss to the government. Haynes is one of nearly 1,000 Donald Trump supporters charged with violently barging in on a joint session of Congress being held to certify President Joe Biden as the winner of the 2020 election. Trump has claimed the election was stolen from him, and urged a large crowd gathered near the Capitol the morning of Jan. 6 to fight like hell. According to court records, Haynes provided a virtual play-by-play account of what he did next. Minutes after crawling through a broken window near the Senates wing doors, he wrote in a text to a friend: Im inside Congress we stormed inside. A short time later, Haynes sent a selfie photograph that shows him standing in the office of a U.S. senator. We storm inside they stop debating and said the army is going to have to do it decide whos president, he wrote. Haynes later went outside to the northeast side of the Capitol, where a large crowd had gathered around a crew of news reporters, yelling insults and inflammatory rhetoric, prosecutors said. We attacked the CNN reporters and the fake news and destroyed tens of thousands dollars of their video and television equipment heres a picture behind me of the pile we made out of it, Haynes texted with a photograph that shows him, wearing a black mask, standing in front of wrecked equipment. Another photo shows him holding a TV light above his head seconds before hurling it to the ground. Reporters were forced to flee. One member of the news media, identified in court records only by the initials Z.D.F, estimated the value of the equipment destroyed at $23,900. How much of that Haynes must pay will be determined later. After his arrest in July 2021, Haynes was placed on house arrest. A short time later, he was charged with domestic violence in state court, and has remained in jail since. In a letter to Chutkan, Haynes mother wrote that her son began to show behavioral problems when he was in elementary school, and was later diagnosed with borderline personality and obsessive compulsive disorder. After spending time in Texas, he returned to Covington about 10 years ago and became interested in local government. He regularly attended city council meetings and volunteered at a food pantry through his church, where he was a member of the choir, Lauren Wright wrote in her letter. Haynes also started his own business, a delivery service, shortly before the pandemic hit. As a family we believe that the isolation of Covid intertwined with his mental illness problems, the shuttering of local government, churches and the startup of his business faltering caused a downward spiral, she wrote. Josh only viewed the world through the internet, national news and social media, the letter stated. He was headed in the right direction, but then he made some wrong decisions that ultimately changed the course of his life. He plans to start his life over on the right track when he is released, Wright wrote, saying that his family and friends know that he will do his best to succeed. Images of chaos: AP photographers capture US Capitol riot A diverse coalition of Democrats is launching a statewide campaign to retool and replace the leadership of South Carolina's Democratic Party, saying the party cannot afford another brutal election cycle like 2022 again. The effort, announced Feb. 4, means the top four leadership positions will be challenged at the state convention later this year. The group is running as a slate and have dubbed their effort "South Carolina Forward Together." Brandon Upson, who resides in York County and is currently chairman of the party's Black Caucus, wants the top job of party chair, meaning he is challenging incumbent Trav Robertson. The announcement came on the same day that national Democrats planned to vote on a new presidential nominating calendar, one that upends decades of tradition and makes South Carolina the first-in-the-nation primary. In a phone interview Upson said their slate one Black man, one White woman, one Mexican-American woman, and one Black woman is answering the call of President Joe Biden's vision for a more inclusive Democratic Party. "President Biden said he wanted to elevate Black voices in this process. We're saying yes," Upson said. "This is the total personification of what we say we are and as a Democratic Party. This is what does the big tent looks like: This diversity that we see on our team." Joining Upson in this effort is Mary Geren, who in 2018 ran for Congress in one of the state's most conservative Upstate districts; Melina Rodelo, a longtime Democrat who lives in Oconee County and is a first-generation American; and Erica Sampson, who currently serves as chair of the Lowcountry Young Democrats and is a previous diversity and inclusion director for the Charleston County Democratic Party. Robertson, who has led the party since 2017, has not said whether he will run again. Reached for comment, he expressed concerns about Upson. "Brandon is a talented individual with a bright future. He will run a spirited campaign. However, I dont think Democrats are going to elect someone who has actively campaigned against Democrats, someone who has been paid by Republicans to defeat Democrats," Robertson said. Upson briefly worked on the campaign of Joe Boykin, the Republican who defeated Charleston County Councilwoman Anna Johnson in 2022. Robertson took issue with Upson's decision to announce his candidacy on the same day the DNC is voting to elevate South Carolina to be the first-in-the-nation primary state. "You cant account for poor taste," Robertson said. "Today is supposed to be about our party and our state, not their own self-interest." Upson punched back, saying it is time for change. "We lost just about 60 Democratic incumbents in the last three years alone," Upson said. "But what are we going to do to learn from that?" He envisions taking a few pages from party playbooks in neighboring states. For example, the state Democratic parties in North Carolina and Georgia hold regularly scheduled call-times with their elected officials in order to raise money for the state party. Upson said South Carolina Democrats can no longer afford to pin the party's financial future on the support of a few robust donors, including U.S. Rep. Jim Clyburn, D-Columbia. Johnson, the former Charleston councilwoman, said she is disappointed to hear Upson is running to lead the state party. Her loss to Boykin gave Republicans a majority on Charleston County Council, a change from the narrow 5-4 majority Democrats had previously enjoyed. "I just don't think that is something that a person in Democratic Party leadership should be doing," Johnson said. Asked about his work for Boykin, Upson confirmed that he had helped him. "For two days," Upson said, explaining how he created a website and helped with social media accounts ahead of the campaign launch before handing it off to Boykin's daughter. SPARTANBURG A Spartanburg County sheriffs deputy shot and killed a man who authorities say barricaded himself in a home and stabbed a police dog. Spartanburg County Coroner Rusty Clevenger said Feb. 3 that 39-year-old Darius L.J. Holcomb died after law enforcement shot him at 191 South Carolina Ave. in the city of Spartanburg. The sheriff's office declined to answer The Post and Courier's questions about the employment status of any deputy involved nor would the agency identify if the man was the subject of warrants being served at the home as part of the shooting on Feb. 2. I can not provide any further information because its an active investigation, sheriff's spokesman Corporal John Burgess wrote in an email. The State Law Enforcement Division in a news release later in the afternoon confirmed that deputies were trying to serve outstanding warrants related to Holcomb. The sheriff's office requested SLED investigate the shooting. Warrant officers with the sheriffs office arrived at the residence around 3:10 p.m. Feb. 2, Burgess wrote in a news release. When they arrived, the suspect threatened deputies with a knife. Burgess wouldn't specify if Holcomb was the subject of the warrants, instead only saying Mr. Holcomb was the suspect in this incident. The nature of the warrants wasn't specified. The suspect barricaded himself in a bedroom, then the family left the residence and negotiations started, Burgess said. Deputies deployed tear gas, and the bedroom door was breached. A sheriffs office K9 entered the home, and the suspect stabbed the K9, Burgess said. Then, at least one deputy shot Holcomb. Emergency medical services responded to the scene. The coroner announced Holcombs death in a 10:35 p.m. media release. A forensic exam was scheduled for Feb. 3. In its release, SLED reported that a SWAT team was deployed after a "standoff." When Holcombe began attacking the K9 with a "sharp object," a deputy "then fired at Holcomb," who SLED said died at the scene. Burgess said the stabbed K9 will receive treatment, but preliminary observation showed the dog will be ok. SLED won't release any further information, citing the acting investigation. This is the fourth officer-involved shooting in South Carolina in 2023 and the first for the Spartanburg County Sheriff's Office in this new year, according to SLED. There were 32 officer-involved shootings last year, three involving the Spartanburg County Sheriff's Office. The people of Guam will now have immediate access to certain medical specialists through the official sealing of a partnership between the Guam Memorial Hospital Authority and St. Lukes Medical Center in the Philippines. Weve been faced with the challenges of resources. The challenges of facilities. The challenges of insurances that are affordable. And, the challenges of how do we provide quality health care for the people of Guam, Gov. Lou Leon Guerrero said during the signing. Leon Guerrero said she recognized the island was in need of specialty care in various areas such as gastroenterology, neonatal intensive care, endocrinology and the expansion of cardiology. But before that could be obtained, a relationship and agreement between St. Lukes and GMHA needed to be official. I am excited about this because this just gives us more inroad to providing specialty care, medical care, more nursing care and other ancillary cares to our hospital, Leon Guerrero said. Instead of the costly transport borne by Guam patients who travel to Manila for health care, St. Lukes has made efforts to bring that health care to the patients, making it more affordable and accessible. At St. Luke's Medical Center, weve instituted packages that are going to be very affordable for people on Guam. Your health care providers are very, very keen on cost savings and cost efficiency for patients traveling out of Guam coming to Manila. Weve made tremendous strides in making that as seamless as possible and making that as cost-efficient as possible. And rest assured, that that effort is not going to stop. Were going to look for ways to making everything economically sound, said Dr. Dennis Serrano of St. Lukes. Both hospitals look to benefit from the partnership, as specialists will be brought to Guam while those from St. Lukes will be able to learn from GMHAs own experts. I think what is really important about this memorandum is bringing the care here to the patients, Serrano said. Definitely, we will work hand in hand to bring the kind of care that we have promised to deliver in St. Lukes Medical Center for all patients. Serrano and his colleagues noted that bringing the health care to where it is needed is what is important. It has been related to us that the need for gastroenterology specialties, maybe also cardiac care, womens health and pediatric health. Many of these cases can actually be managed in Guam. We know that you have the facilities. We know you have the expertise. And we understand that it is really manpower (that is needed). The numbers need a little more fixing and that is where we hope to help a little bit, Serrano said. The terms for the MOU are set for one year, in order to determine what needs to be adjusted, added and improved upon, with the hope of extending to a longer and stronger relationship, he said. We think that this is going to be very productive. We are really committed to its success. According to St. Luke's officials, a previous MOU was signed between the two hospitals in the past, however, this new memorandum is meant to specify the roles of each institution and what will be accomplished. The initial MOU was very generalized, this one there is a specific agenda. It specifies what has to be delivered and can evolve into long term, said Dr. Arturo de La Pena, president of St. Lukes Medical Center. The mantra of St. Lukes is, Our patients come first, and certainly a big bulk of our patients are coming from Guam. And so, St. Lukes is committed to make all of our resources to make this memorandum of understanding to become real. Thank you for reading! To read this article and more, subscribe now for as little as $1.99. The Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Godwin Emefiele, has appealed to Nigerians to show understanding adding that the redesigned notes would circulate and be accessible. Mr Emefiele made the appeal at a special media briefing on the new naira notes, on Friday, in Lagos. He noted he was seeing the protests and arguments surrounding the difficulty citizens were facing in accessing the new notes. I understand the agitation and Im begging in Gods name, we on our knees begging people to please show understanding. They should be calm. In our meetings with the banks, we have told them to set up tents and chairs, give people numbers, which Im sure some people will say it is old fashioned. But at this time that were trying to get the currency in circulation amongst everybody, people have to have numbers and they come in under a queueing arrangements that when you come in you get served, if it finishes, just be patient. By tomorrow, when you come back, they will start from where they stopped, you will not be cheated. Lets just be calm and adopt a good queueing system, the assurance we give is that it will eventually go round. READ ALSO: Osinbajo faults new naira notes policy Eventually the limits will be raised and eventually the limits will be removed and people will be able to conduct their business transactions in a way that it has always been in the past, Mr Emefiele said. On high charges by the Point of Sale (PoS) agents on every transaction made by their customers, the apex bank governor urged banks to stop the charges on PoS. I am going to be calling a meeting with the banks this evening or by tomorrow, if those charges go to or those charges have been charged through the bank, we are going to have an arrangement with even telcos to see how those charges can actually at this time be stopped. Those charges at this time should be stopped. So, if we know whatever you are making that youre not making because we stopped it, we can collect it somewhere and look for a way to pay you. But we dont want you to continue to create pain on those who want to use alternative channels when they cannot have cash in their pocket. We will go into this later this night or even tomorrow, were going to call a meeting of both the banks and the mobile networks; at this time nobody should be charged, if you are charged, we will need to know about it. But we would want this service to continue to be offered. Whatever it is in terms of volume and number that you have carried out. We will look for away to pay you your money, he said. NAN reports that the redesigned naira notes comprising N200, N500 and N1,000, came into use on 15 December 2022, after they were unveiled by President Muhammadu Buhari on 23 November 2022 in Abuja. The CBN had earlier fixed 31 January as deadline for the collection of old naira notes, but later extended the time limit to 10 February. The CBN governor had said the extension was to allow Nigerians that had naira legitimately earned and trapped, the opportunity to deposit their money for exchange. The governor had ordered banks to load their Automated Teller Machines with the new naira notes to ensure Nigerians had access to them. (NAN) Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print The Yul Edochie polygamy saga is not ending anytime soon as the actors first wife, May, threatens to sue actress Sarah Martin for photoshopped images. Sarahs offence was sharing a photoshopped picture of Yuls second wife, Judy Austin and Yul into a family photo of May and her four children. Star, the son Judy bore for Yul, is also featured in the photoshopped image. The original picture was taken during Christmas. On Friday, May revealed via Instagram that she had directed her lawyers to file a suit against one Sarah Chukwukere, with the username @officialsarahmartins, for sharing an edited image of her and her children. Expressing her anger, she wrote, It is inconsiderate and demeaning to smear anyone, especially someone you barely knew. Ive always had a peaceful, joyful and loving family. I worked tirelessly for several years building a beautiful home while managing several businesses successfully. It is evident that some persons have deliberately and desperately tried to taint my reputation and change the narrative to suit their agenda. This is unacceptable to me, she added. Drawing the attention of culprits and others who dare to do the same to her next course of action, she said her legal team would be extremely cheerful to dine with anyone who does not cease from character assassination or defamatory publications in the court of law. May shared the writ from the court; the lawsuit demanded a public apology from the actress and a retraction of a defamatory publication. Double Wahala May also threaten to sue Sarah for a false and injurious statement made against her during an Instagram live session with popular media personality Daddy Freeze. In the letter, it was stated that Sarah implied during the live chat that May failed in her duties as a wife to Mr Yul Edochie and that such failures led Mr Yul Edochie to leave our Client (May) and get married to Ms Judy Austin. The document explained that the statement was false as there was no event or evidence to confirm that the idea made was true. The document also revealed that there was no form of relationship between May and Sarah to have warranted the conclusions Sarah held against her. READ ALSO: Stating the degree of Sarahs offence, Mays counsel added that there was malice at play, saying that the statement was made from a place of hatred for May. The statement inferred that Yul was estranged from May, whom he married in 2004. They also highlighted a conspiracy between Sarah and Judy Austin to drive May out. Contained in the list of demands are a public apology, a full retraction of the statement and an assurance that such false utterances will not be made in the future. If the actress fails to render an apology, she will be made to pay N500m to May for damages. Sarahs Reaction Reacting to the news of the impending lawsuit, Sarah shared a meme of a sad boy thinking about his life and wrote, 500m ??? God abeg o. The post was accompanied by an emoji caption which illustrated her hands on her head. In April 2022, Yul introduced his son, Star, to his second wife and colleague, Judy Muoghalu, sparking controversy. Yul married his first wife, May, at 22, in 2004, after dating for six years. In July 2022, May opened up about how she fell into depression when her husband married a second wife. She recently said she would not be cajoled into accepting polygamy. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print The World Health Organisation (WHO) has said that data estimates show a considerable increase in cancer mortality to nearly one million deaths per year by 2030 if there are no urgent and bold interventions. WHO Regional Director for Africa, Matshidiso Moeti, disclosed this in a message to commemorate the 2023 World Cancer Day, noting that approximately 1.1 million new cancer cases occur each year in Africa, with about 700,000 deaths. Ms Moeti noted that cancer is a public health issue of major concern, adding that the most common cancers in adults include breast (16.5 per cent), cervical (13.1 per cent), prostate (9.4 per cent), Colorectal (6 per cent), and liver (4.6 per cent) cancers, which contributed to nearly half of the new cancer cases. With significant data challenges, she added that childhood cancer incidence in sub-Saharan Africa is estimated at 56.3 per million population and that the current projections show that Africa will account for nearly 50 per cent of the global childhood cancer burden by 2050. World Cancer Day is an international day marked yearly on 4 February to raise awareness of cancer and encourage its prevention, detection, and treatment. The 2023 theme is Close the care Gap: Uniting Our Voices and Taking Action. Africas achievements, responses The WHO director highlighted major achievements Africa has made at the country level with support of WHO. She said 12 countries in the region have valid National Cancer Control Plans and that WHO is supporting 11 additional countries in developing or updating their own aligned to the global cancer initiatives coupled with the presence of governance structures at the government level to implement Cancer Plans. Countries such as Ghana, Senegal and Zambia have developed National Treatment Guidelines for childhood cancer while 12 countries have developed and are using cancer guidelines. Political will remains significant in improving the cancer landscape. READ ALSO: Including childhood cancer medicines in the National Health Insurance Scheme in Ghana and Zambia is a good example. Such a strategic action will significantly contribute to the increase in survival rates for children with cancer in these countries, she said. Ms Moeti added that WHO Africa is collaborating with Childhood Cancer International to develop and pilot the Mental Health and Psychosocial Support guidelines for children in Burkina Faso. It is gratifying to note the steady increase of HPV vaccination national introduction by 51 per cent of countries in the region, although coverage remains concerning at 21 per cent. Currently, 16 countries have introduced high-performance-based screening tests in line with WHO recommendations and plan to scale up cervical cancer screening, she added. Challenges Ms Moeti commended the introduction of gynecologic oncology fellowships in Malawi and Zambia for improved access to cervical cancer treatment services. She added that in collaboration with the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) in cancer registration, WHO launched three collaborating centres in Cote dIvoire, Kenya, and South Africa that will facilitate capacity building for local staff and improve data quality for effective decision-making. Despite these achievements, Ms Moeti said that there are stumbling blocks that remain on our path, noting that Africa has only 3 per cent of the worlds cancer treatment facilities, with radiotherapy available in just 22 countries in sub-Saharan Africa, contributing to very low survival rates. She said the challenges include the low availability of Population-Based Cancer Registries; limited health promotion, inadequate access to primary prevention and early detection services; the scarcity of diagnostic facilities that increase delays in diagnosis and treatment. Action Ms Moeti added that by uniting voices and action, cancer can be addressed at individual and community levels by choosing healthy lifestyles, getting vaccinated, and getting routinely screened against preventable cancers. I call on Governments to develop/update national cancer control plans, provide sustainable financing and invest in cancer registration. I encourage Governments to incorporate cancer care into essential benefits packages and national health insurance systems. It is also critical to ensure adequate infrastructure for human resources, screening, diagnostics, and treatment. There is equally a need to expand the use of digital health and establish relevant training for the cancer workforce. Finally, cancer survivors can lend their voices as advocates for better cancer services. As persons with lived experience, they should be involved in designing cancer services at all levels of health care, she said. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print The Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Godwin Emefiele, has been funding unknown gunmen and members of the outlawed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), the State Security Service (SSS) has alleged in court documents newly obtained by PREMIUM TIMES. The documents provide, for the first time, the missing details of the terrorism financing allegation which the SSS levelled against Mr Emefiele last December. IPOB is a separatist organisation that calls for the secession of the five Igbo-dominated states in South-east Nigeria and parts of neighbouring states as an independent Biafra nation. The group blamed for violent acts in the South-east region in recent years has been declared a terrorist organiation and proscribed by a court as far back as September 2017. The Nigerian media, including PREMUM TIMES, reported in December SSS futile bid to obtain an order of the Federal High Court in Abuja for the arrest of Mr Emefiele over wide-ranging allegations, including financing of terrorism. The Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, John Tsoho, after listening to SSS legal team, refused to grant the application for an order against Mr Emefile. The judge rejected the application in a ruling delivered on 9 December, citing an irregularity in the procedure adopted by the SSS in its application. The Nigerian media, including PREMIUM TIMES, only became aware of the ruling 11 days after it was delivered by the court. But the reports did not provide details about the agencys weighty allegations against Mr Emefiele. Eight weeks after the court gave the decision, PREMIUM TIMES has now obtained the SSS court filings providing astonishing dimensions of the agencys allegations against the CBN governor. In a slew of weighty allegations, the SSS accused him of sabotaging the President Muhammadu Buhari administration, financing terrorism, aiding and abetting terrorism, and committing other economic crimes with effect of undermining Nigerias national security. More specifically, the agency also accused Mr Emefiele of mismanaging the CBN subsidiary, NISRAL, and the central banks Anchor Borrowers Programme. Call for detention A team of four lawyers from the SSS legal department filed its case against Mr Emefiele on 7 December. But contrary to earlier reports suggesting that the application was for an order for the arrest of Mr Emefiele, it actually sought permission to detain Mr Emefile for 60 days to conclude an ongoing investigation of his alleged atrocities. The application was filed as an ex parte motion, meaning it was not served on Mr Emefile. It was supported by an affidavit deposed to by an SSS official, Umar Salihu, who summarised the details of the investigations into the weighty crimes Mr Emefiele allegedly committed. The deponent said there is reasonable suspicion that the respondent (Mr Emefiele) was involved in terrorism financing, aiding and abetting acts of terrorism, economic crimes of national security dimension and for undermining the security of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. He said the agency needed to apply to the court for an order enabling the applicant to detain the respondent for sixty days, pending the conclusion of ongoing investigation On the need for the court to issue the order, he said Mr Emefiele is a man of means and can easily evade arrest and interfere with ongoing investigation if he is released on bail. Citing credible intelligence, the deponent mentioned some specific allegations over which the agency was investigating Mr Emefiele. The allegations enumerated in the application lack specifics or any hint at what the CBN governors motivation to sponsor IPOB and other terrorists activities could be. IPOB, terrorism funding In about the most horrific of the allegations, the SSS accused Mr Emefiele of funding terrorism, unknown gunmen terrorising the South-east region, the IPOB and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN). The SSS alleged that Mr Emefiele funded them with both the resources he raised for his failed presidential bid last year and funds diverted from government coffers. Mr Emefiele, as sitting CBN governor, controversially bid for the presidential ticket of the All Progressives Congress (APC) last year. Images of his branded vehicles and other campaign materials surfaced online in the lead-up to the partys primary election. He also approached the Federal High Court in Abuja to obtain an order affirming his right to jostle for the APCs ticket. But the court on 9 May refused to grant Mr Emefieles prayer. The Nigerias spy agency said in its filing in December that Mr Emefiele procures a number of vehicles and disbursed funds for his botched presidential ambition. It added that the said funds and vehicles are being channelled into funding of Unknown Gunmen, Eastern Security Network (ESN) and elements of IPOB, a proscribed organisation. In addition, the agency said Mr Emefiele, on several occasions in actions prejudicial to the security of the Nigerian state, engaged in criminal conspiracy to divert government resources into suspicious acts of terrorism financing. It said the actions of the CBN governor were meant to subvert and sabotage the President Muhammadu Buhari administration. But as weighty as the allegations, coming from the governments flagship intelligence agency are, Mr Buhari has continued to hold one-on-one meetings with Mr Emefiele since December. This raises questions about whether the president has any regard for the credible intelligence the SSS claimed it gathered about the nations top banker. The SSS, which is at the forefront of governments efforts to quell separatist activities around the country, was holding the leader of IPOB, Nnamdi Kanu, in custody when it linked Mr Emefiele to the funding of the proscribed group in December. Neither the Presidency, the SSS nor Mr Emefiele has commented on the allegations. Money laundering, fraud, mismanagement of interventionist funds The SSS also accused Mr Emefiele of fraud, money laundering, round tripping and conferment of financial benefit to self and others. Mr Emefiele is also involved in mismanaging of various interventionist funds of the government under his control, according to the SSS. Funds belonging to the Social Investment Programme (NISRAL) and the Anchor Borrowers Scheme were among those the SSS accused Mr Emefiele of mismanaging. The two agencies are interventionist schemes to boost food production and encourage farmers. The SSS also accused Mr Emefiele of mismanaging other key economic sectors of the economy. Emefieles syndicate In another breathtaking allegation, the SSS claimed it was on the trail of members of a criminal syndicate of which Mr Emefiele is allegedly a part. It said investigation is still ongoing on a wider scale as other members of the syndicate chain need to be identified and arrested to enable successful prosecution. The agency accused Mr Emefiele of aiding and abetting terrorism, and alleged further that he used proxies from his alleged syndicate to carry out his illegal economic crimes of national security dimension with potent threat to the countrys security. Why court rejected SSS application In rejecting SSS application on 9 December 2022, however, the judge, Mr Tsoho, pointed out a flaw in the procedure adopted by the agency to ask for an order for Mr Emefieles detention for 60 days. He said the request by the secret police ought to have been preceded by the arrest of the suspect which did not require a court order. This is not the situation here, as Godwin Emefiele, the CBN governor was shown on television, even last night, having an audience with the President of Nigeria, the judge said. It therefore seems that the applicant intends to use the court as a cover for an irregular procedure which is unacceptable. The judge said an application of this kind (by the SSS) should have evidence of the approval of the respondent (Emefieles) boss (President Buhari), that such measures are authorised to be taken, owing to the sensitive position he occupiesas one of the key drivers of the nations economy. I decline to grant this application ex parte, the judge declared. Femi Falana, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, said the SSS allegations against Mr Emefiele robs Nigeria of investors confidence in the economy. Nobody will want to do business with your country when the head of the Central Bank is a terrorism suspect, the senior lawyer said in a telephone interview with PREMIUM TIMES, Similarly, Mr Emefieles predecessor, Lamido Sanusi, a former Emir of Kano, was accused of terrorism financing by the Goodluck Jonathan-led regime in 2014, and was removed from office, Mr Falana recalled. Also commending the judge for dismissing what he termed, the unworthy application by the SSS to arrest the CBN governor, Olisa Agbakoba, a former President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), challenged the secret police to sue Mr Emefiele if there is evidence. CBN governor and his troubles Mr Emefieles foray into politics last year, bidding for the APCs presidential ticket while still in office as the CBN governor, drew wide condemnation among Nigerians. A PREMIUM TIMES editorial, one of the credible forces that first exposed Mr Emefieles covert presidential bid, called on him to either publicly deny it or resign immediately from office to pursue his political dream. The CBN still faces criticisms for plunging Nigerians into hardships associated with scarcity of the newly introduced naira notes. Nigerians, groaning over the scarcity of new naira notes, urged the CBN governor to rescind the policy. The redesigned 200, 500 and 1000 notes are hard to come by at Automated Teller Machines the only place where money can be withdrawn. But Mr Emefiele only extended the deadline by 10 days from 31 January to 10 February, which many have said is insufficient to address the acute shortage of the new notes. The presidential candidate of the APC, Bola Tinubu, in a veiled reference to the monetary policy, condemned the scarcity of the new bank notes, adding that it was a ploy to scuttle his chances of winning the election. Appearing before the House of Representatives, Mr Emefiele explained that old naira notes would be accepted by banks even after the 10 February deadline. A law professor, Joshua Alobo, had sued the CBN seeking an extension of the deadline. The apex bank had on 26 October, 2022, announced the introduction of redesigned 200, 500 and 1,000 naira notes into the financial system. But access to the new notes remains a herculean task as people throng ATMs in a bid to withdraw money. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print Gunmen suspected to be bandits have killed the wives and five children of the district head of Mutum Biu, Sani Muhammed. Mutum Biu is in the headquarters of Gasol Local Government area of Taraba State. A senior Gasol Emirate official, Ibrahim Yau, told reporters of the incident in Jalingo, the capital of the state on Saturday. The police in the state also confirmed the killings to PREMIUM TIMES on Saturday evening. It has been confirmed by reliable sources that 7 out of the 8 family members of the Emir of M/biyu have been killed by their assailants. One escaped from the forest, said Usman Abdullahi, the spokesperson of the police in the state. Mr Yau said one person among those kidnapped alongside the family of the district head managed to escape. PREMIUM TIMES reported how the family of the district head was kidnapped in Jalingo after the gunmen attacked the residence of the monarch, a retired judge and a second-class chief. Mr Yau said the corpses of the traditional rulers family members were deposited at the palace of the district head at Mutumbiyu for Islamic burial on Saturday. READ ALSO: Residents of the town told PREMIUM TIMES that the assailants were after the monarch for cooperating with security agencies in the area as well as the state government sponsored vigilante group known as the Taraba Marshall who are tackling the outlaws in the area. The traditional ruler is also known for asking residents of the area not to pay ransom to outlaws who kidnapped their loved ones. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print The Nigerian government on Friday said it is working towards finding lasting solution to the lingering petrol scarcity across the country. The Minister of State, Petroleum Resources, Timipre Sylva, disclosed this while speaking with journalists after an inspection of some filling stations in the central area of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), on Friday. In recent months, Nigerian have had a tough time getting petroleum products at filling stations across the country. The scarcity has persisted despite the governments repeated claims it had enough petroleum products in stock. Last Tuesday, President Muhammadu Buhari approved the constitution of a 14-member steering committee to address the supply and distribution of petroleum products across the country. On Friday, the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), attributed the lingering fuel scarcity in the country to a disruption in the product distribution chain caused by the activities of cross-border smugglers. However, the agency claimed that there is petrol sufficiency of over 1.6 billion litres as of 26 January both on land and marine. Despite the governments position, PREMIUM TIMES found that Nigerians have continued to suffer from scarcity of petrol across the country. A PREMIUM TIMES report detailed how Nigerians have continued to lament the hardship caused by the scarcity of petroleum products across the country as businesses and households that depend on generators for power supply groan in darkness. On Tuesday, Nigerias chief of defence staff, Lucky Irabor, warned that the scarcity had become a security concern and nobody is indispensable in bringing a solution to the problem. Speaking on Friday, Mr Sylva said that Mr Buhari directed that they must ensure that the fuel supply situation is normalised across Nigeria. He said: And that is why I have to ensure that we sort out this problem. A lot of things have been done. All hands have been on deck, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited, the NMDPRA, and stakeholders in the supply chain have come together to ensure that the problem is resolved. This is not the time for us to apportion blame as the most important thing is that the problem has been resolved and you can see now the queues are no longer there, at least in the FCT we are going around to ensure they have disappeared. Mr Sylva argued that the fuel situation in Nigeria has a lot of ramifications as the importation of petroleum products is a problem because a lot of people cannot access foreign exchange. He explained further that the fuel situation has nothing to do with politics. Anything, including natural disasters like floods, can trigger fuel distribution hindrances because they are natural factors we are not in control of, he said. A lot of the problems that cause fuel scarcity and queues are not within our control. There are also all kinds of people who are ready to take advantage of situations and cause problems by seeking opportunities to make money, hoard and smuggle the product. These require the intervention of the security agencies and the recent engagement with them definitely helped. In the bid to ensure energy sufficiency, he said the refineries across the country were being rehabilitated and the operation so of modular refineries were being supported. We had to take a 20 per cent stake in Dangote Refinery, these are all efforts by the government to ensure the problem is solved permanently, he said. The 14-member committee, which was part of the mechanism to address petroleum supply in the country, would be inaugurated next week to address the fuel scarcity concerns, he added. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print President Muhammadu Buhari on Saturday assured the All Progressives Congress (APC) party supporters that he will continue to campaign for Bola Tinubu as the next president of Nigeria. The president spoke before a mammoth crowd at the presidential campaign rally in Lafia square, where he endorsed the candidature of the presidential candidate, Tinubu, his running mate, Kashim Shettima and the second-term bid of Governor Abdullahi Sule of Nasarawa State. He thanked party supporters for defying the hot weather and standing in the sun for hours to express their support for the partys flag bearers in the forthcoming presidential and gubernatorial elections. I congratulate and assure you that God willing we are going to win through and through. As Tinubu said in his speech, I have known him for more than 20 years, and I will continue to campaign for Bola Ahmed Tinubu. He is a committed Nigerian and I believe he will give all his best to Nigeria. Also vote for Abdullahi Sule for a second and final term as governor he said. The APC presidential candidate thanked the president for being the poster boy of his campaign, fighting and working hard for the survival of Nigeria. Nigeria is surviving as a nation. Because of constitutional democracy we would have asked you to continue, but you said no, you are going back to Daura, your hometown, he said. Mr Tinubu also used the occasion to chide those insinuating that he is having a frosty relationship with the president, saying: Those who think there are cracks in our friendship and relationship would continue to be disappointed and have their short-term joy limited. Ours is not about the individual but about nation building, honesty, integrity and character, he said. The APC presidential candidate, who compared President Buhari to great and courageous leaders like Abraham Lincoln, praised him for remaining focused in the midst of distractions. He promised that under his presidency, Nigeria will recover from all challenges because of the courage and resilience of its citizens. Mr Tinubu added that his administration would prioritise agriculture, build the nations mineral resources and create wealth for Nigerians. We will work hard. We promise you that your children and grandchildren will have no regret about this nation and ourselves, he said. Garba Shehu Senior Special Assistant to the President (Media & Publicity) Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print Some voters and members of political parties said they are optimistic about the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS). They expressed confidence in the voting process during the mock accreditation exercise conducted by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Kano on Saturday. The mock accreditation exercise was conducted in six local government areas in Kano. The selected local council areas were Gwale, Kumbotso, Bichi, Dawakin Tofa, Wudil, and Rano. PREMIUM TIMES visited the Nainawa ward in the Kumbotso council area and monitored how the accreditation exercise was conducted. At the Naibawa ward, Muhammadu Zubair, a resident, commended INEC for the introduction of the BVAS technology for timely accreditation of voters unlike in the previous manual exercise. When I came they collected my Permanent Voters Card (PVC), I thumbprinted and my information appeared on the screen of the BVAS machine, they also tried facial accreditation which was also successful in some seconds. The entire process is not up to two minutes. I was tested like other voters but the BVAS machine rejected me for the second time. The machine alerted me that I was earlier accredited thus, I cant vote twice. This is fantastic, to be frank with you, this will also reduce congestion during the election at the polling units, this development is a welcome one, Mr Zubair said. Many of the voters who spoke to our reporter at the exercise commended the INEC for the introduction of the BVAS technology. One of them, who simply identified herself as Humaira, said she is happy because the machine accredited her through facial expression after the machine rejected her thumbprint because of her henna decoration. An observer, representing the All Progressives Congress (APC), Adamu Kwankwaso, said the accreditation process using the BVAS machine is impressive. He, however, urged the INEC to educate voters in the rural areas before the election. I visited other polling units where the exercise is being conducted, what I saw is quite encouraging. In seconds, you can get accreditation as a voter. In one hour you can accredit over 120 voters, this is quite encouraging and impressive, and this is a good initiative. But the BVAS machine being introduced in the electoral process may not be known to the voters in rural areas, in this regard, I urge INEC to intensify voter education regarding the new technology. The INEC on their part must ensure that all BVAS machines going to rural areas are adequately charged to enable them to work throughout the accreditation period, Mr Kwankwaso said. Muhammadu Yakubu, the Secretary for the New Nigeria People Party (NNPP) in the Naibawa ward said the ongoing accreditation exercise is satisfactory and welcomed the development. However, Mr Yakubu said the ongoing naira scarcity forced many people to stay away from the exercise. He said some people are willing to come but due to the scarcity of the new naira notes, did not attend the exercise. We have done our best by going around notifying people about the mock accreditation exercise but yet many people did not show up. But our observations during the exercise are good, we are satisfied with the BVAS machine. When they started the mock exercise I did not spot any challenges, we are okay with it, the NNPP scribe said. Variables observed INEC boss Kano States Resident Electoral Commissioner, Zango Abdu, told reporters at the Naibawa ward that the BVAS machine is efficient, effective and encouraging after visiting some of the polling units where the mock exercise is being conducted. On the average, a voter is accredited in a minute but there is variable, we have seen for example that to a large extent, facial recognition is faster than the fingerprint, we will like the two to work efficiently. This is one of the discoveries during the mock exercise, facial recognition is much easier, we will get the report from other places and aggregate them. We hope that before Election Day, if there is any gap (this) will be checked. The mock accreditation exercise is meant to assess whether the BVAS is efficient, and effective, and will give us the necessary platform to ensure an easy process. When you are doing an election you make things easy for voters to exercise their rights. There is no reason for citizens to come to the polling unit and stay for the whole day without being accredited but for now, the accreditation process is good and fast and if we noticed anything, we will address it, Mr Abdu said. He said after the mock exercise whatever challenges observed will be identified and addressed on election day so that things will go much smoother than the mock exercise Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print Two days after Nigerian actress Oluwadarasimi Omoseyin, popularly known as Simisola Gold, was arrested by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), the EFCC has also waded into the case. The actress was arrested for allegedly selling the new Naira notes for profit and is now being interrogated by the EFCC for spraying and stepping on the new Naira notes. EFCC operatives from the Lagos Zonal Command commenced an investigation of the actress actions. The anti-graft agency is questioning her for allegedly tampering with the redesigned Naira notes, an offence contrary to Section 21 (5) of the Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN Act, 2007. EFCC Grills Actress Over Spraying, Stepping On New Naira Notes Operatives of the Lagos Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, have commenced investigation of Oluwadarasimi Omoseyin, an actress and cosmetologist, pic.twitter.com/fkccwDKaY6 EFCC Nigeria (@officialEFCC) February 3, 2023 The 31-year-old cosmetologist cum actress was arrested after the video of her spraying and stepping on the newly redesigned Naira notes at a party surfaced online. In the viral video, she was also seen flaunting wads of the new Naira notes. She was subsequently handed over to the EFCC on Thursday for further investigations. Items recovered from her at the point of arrest along Awolowo Road, Ikoyi, Lagos, included a Range Rover and iPhone mobile devices. The agencys Head, Media & Publicity, Wilson Uwujaren, said: she would be charged to court once investigations have been concluded. Nigerians dig up video While Mr Uwujaren confirmed the anti-graft agency was investigating her, he declined to give any update on the case. Nigerians dug up the video of the event. In the video, she was seen spraying cash at the event. Many noticed she was not the only one spreading the new notes and raised some questions stating that foul play was involved. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print Bola Tinubu, the presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) on Saturday at the campaign rally in Lafia, the Nasarawa State capital, dismissed speculations of a rift between him and President Muhammadu Buhari, stating that but for constitutional democracy, he would have asked the president to stay on. Mr Tinubu, whose relationship with Mr Buhari has been the subject of speculations since the Naira redesigning debacle, dedicated a large part of his speech to praise the president. The speech was a departure from the one he gave in Ogun and Ekiti states, where he stated that scarcity of the redesigned notes is part of deliberate efforts to sabotage his campaign. Some close allies of Mr Tinubu, including Governors Nasir El-Rufai of Kaduna and Umar Ganduje of Kano State, have in separate interviews, alleged that there are elements around the president conspiring against Mr Tinubu and the party. However, in his speech in the presence of Mr Buhari, the former Lagos State governor was mute on the scarcity of the new notes and fuel across the country. Instead, he talked about how Mr Buhari dismissed the idea of a third term. The Nigerian constitution only permits two terms of four years for the president and state governors. It would require the amendment of the constitution for a president and governors to have extra terms. Mr Tinubu also likened Mr Buhari to a former United States President, Abraham Lincoln, the American civil war hero. Today, to have you here to talk about democracy and our party, it is a joy and great honour. It is a joy for us, who joined hands with you some 20 years ago, to reshape Nigeria, to fight corruption, to fight destitution, to fight failure and hunger, including the unexpected downfall in oil prices and violent attacks on our persons, on our soil. You faced this courageously. Yes Nigeria is surviving as a nation and we believe because of constitutional democracy we would have asked you to stay but you said no, this is a constitutional democracy, I am going back to Daura, my farm, my house, I miss them. Not that I dont miss you people, not that I dont appreciate you people, but there is more to do in life and with time to transform Nigeria. I will step aside and allow you people to continue. It is a joy for me to see that you are a poster boy for APC and Bola Tinubustanding up there we see the poster of Bola Tinubu so prominently on you. Those who think there can be cracks in our friendship and relationship will continue to be disappointed and their short time joy limited Ours is not about the individual but nation building. It is about honesty, integrity and character. You are a great man with a political credential, the APC flag bearer said. Tinubu will win through and thoughBuhari Mr Buhari, who spoke in both English and Hausa, said he will continue to campaign for Mr Tinubu and his party. He noted that Mr Tinubu will win through and through in the 25 February presidential election and told the crowd that he is sure that Mr Tinubu will give his all for the country. I am very pleased to be here today at this campaign for Bola Ahmed Tinubu as the next president of Nigeria, and for the governor of Nasarawa State for his second and final term. I thank you very much for defying the weather and standing in the sun for hours. I congratulate you and assure you that we are going to win through and through. Ahmed Bola Tinubu, I knew him more than 20 years agoall the problems that we had, I mentioned earlierthere is no local government that I have not visited between 2003 and 2011. I visited all the states in 2019 when I was asking for a second term. I will continue to campaign for Bola Tinubu, the president said. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print The Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) machines have never failed and will not fail Nigerians at the 2023 general elections. The declaration was made in Abuja on Saturday by INEC chairman, Mahmood Yakubu, while assessing activities at polling units in the FCT where mock accreditation of voters were held using the BVAS machines. In the two polling units we have visited so far, there is no report of failure; the machines have performed optimally and this is the report we are getting so far nationwide. We have also made contingency arrangements like we will do on Election Day, that there is a spare machine in case and in the unlikely event of a malfunction we will be able to respond and fix the machines he said. Mr Yakubu explained that from the mock exercise witnessed, it took less than 30 seconds to accredit a voter adding that this was the report INEC was getting from all the selected polling units nationwide. The speed is good and also the authentication is good. The BVAS has never failed anywhere, he stressed. Mr Yakubu said also that no incident of failure had been recorded and INEC was hoping and praying having worked very hard that on 25 February and 12 March, the machines would also perform optimally. He assured that accreditation and electronic transmission of results would be done seamlessly during the elections. I would not like to comment on the Osun issue because it is a matter in court and is sub-judice. However, in every situation the Commission learns, carries the experience from what has happened to improve the processes for the next election. We have learned some lessons from what happened and one of the lessons is to be able to transmit the accreditation data, he said. Mr Yakubu also assured on Saturday that at the oncoming general elections, INEC would transmit both the results on Election Day and the accreditation figures simultaneously so that the two would rhyme. He said that INEC created a new Uniform Resource Locator (URL) on its Results Viewing Portal where both the accreditation and results could be viewed. We are going to transmit both the accreditation figures and the results on Election Day. We are giving assurance to Nigerians that on Election Day, both the accredited data and the actual votes cast will be transmitted simultaneously and accurately, the INEC boss stressed. Mr Yakubu said the mock exercise was organised to further test the integrity of the machines to be used on Election Days. He said it needed to test the machines in the field ahead of the election bearing in mind that this was the first time of deploying the machines nationwide. He explained that for the mock exercise, INEC identified 436 polling units nationwide on the equality of states and on the basis of two local governments per senatorial district. Four polling units were used in each local government area where the exercise held, making a total of 16 polling units per state. Voters are verified using their PVCs and then authenticated using their fingerprint or facial recognition on the machines on the basis of which they will be given the ballot papers on Election Day after successful accreditation. A governorship election petition tribunal nullified the election of Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, on 27 January as a result of over-voting in 10 local government areas of the state at the 16 July, 2022 election. The tribunal asked INEC to withdraw the Certificate of Return issued to Mr Adeleke of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and issue same to Gboyega Oyetola of the All Progressives Congress as winner of the election. It ruled that if the ballots from the polling units where over-voting took place were withdrawn, Mr Oyetola had more votes than Mr Adeleke. Mr Adeleke has since said he would appeal against the tribunals ruling. (NAN) Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print Residents of Katsina State who participated in the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) mock accreditation for voters have expressed optimism of a hitch-free presidential and national assembly elections on 25 February. The voters also said that they they have faith that election will not be rigged. The Chairman of INEC, Mahmoud Yakubu, had said the mock accreditation would afford the commission the opportunity to test the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) ahead of its deployment for the actual voting in February and March this year. A PREMIUM TIMES reporter monitored the exercise in two polling units in the state from 08:57 a.m. to 01:27 p.m. This reporter observed that there was provision of security agents in the polling units where the mock exercises were conducted in Katsina Local Government Area and the INEC officials were at the designated points on time. While three Hilux vans belonging to the police and the customs were stationed at the Shinkafi A Gezawa unit, this reporter saw four Hilux vans of police and Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps in Sabuwar Bakuru, Katsina local government area. The exercise was scheduled to begin at 8:30 a.m. and ended at 2 p.m. nationwide and in the two places visited, this reporter gathered from the residents that the INEC officials were there at the designated time though they didnt commence the exercise until after 9 a.m. In those two units, 170 people were successfully accredited while 12 were not captured as of 1:25 p.m. while some of them had facial issues, others had thumbprint issues. Residents react Umar Shehu, a resident of Shinkafi, said he was surprised by the efficiency of the system. Ive been participating in the voting process since 2003 and Ill tell you this is the first time the machine has captured me without wasting much time, the 41 year old commercial motorcyclist said. It didnt take me two minutes to finish the whole process. Mr Shehu, who said he was happy to have participated in the mock exercise, said he hoped it would be this simple during the elections. Tumba Ali, another resident, also commended the fastness of the exercise. Im happy with how it turned out. I thought Ill spend a lot of time here when I left home. But I can see that its very easy, she said. A community leader in Sabuwar Bakuru community, Bello Abdullahi, called on the INEC to ensure that the same process is reflected during the general elections. We give thanks to God because voting is a civic duty and this exercise will give our people the chance to know whether they will be participating in the election or not. Some of the people here are participating for the first time so we believe this is a good thing to come and practice the process, he said. Mr Abdullahi said they were informed by government that the purpose is to try the machine to avoid malpractice. We want the machine to be used in the elections so that our votes will be counted. Let them not come during the main elections and start using some other things and not the machine we saw today. Nasiru Shehu, a youth leader in Shinkafi A Gezawa, re-echoed the hope of other residents by praying that the process is reflected in the general elections. An aged woman, who gave her name as Indo, was not captured by the BVAS and she told PREMIUM TIMES it saddened her. But the boy (INEC official) said I should go and come back after thirty minutes to try and capture me again. He said my fingers were dirty or Ive applied henna. The camera also refused to capture me, but Ive the card. Look at it, she said. Katsina INEC speaks The Director, Voter Education and Publicity at the Katsina State INEC office, Shehu Saidu, said the BVAS would be used for two major purposes in the general elections. He said the system would be used to accredit voters and transmit results to the main server. This system will be used in the general elections just as we did today. We conducted this mock accreditation to prepare voters and make further tests of the system. The system (BVAS) will be used for voter accreditation after which a voter is given his ballot paper. Well also use it for electronic transmission of results after the process. This is to ensure that no result is manipulated, he said. Mr Saidu called on residents to cooperate with officials before, during and after the voting process to ensure efficiency. Domestic Observer, analyst speak A domestic observer, who is also the state coordinator of Transmission Monitoring Group (TMG) Kamaludeen Kabir, commended the process. He said the situation room at the state capital had not received any major issues from observers posted to other areas. Mr Kabir, who monitored the exercise in Katsina and Shinkafi, however, called on INEC to use trained ad-hoc staff during the general elections. The process is very efficient but it could also be because the officials being used for the mock accreditation are INEC staff. In most of the places, it takes ninety seconds to accredit a voter. But when its the general elections, they have to use ad-hoc staff which may delay the process because theyre not like the staff. So, we want them to use only well trained ad-hoc staff to achieve the desired goals, he said. A political analyst, Saifullahi kuraye, said its too early for anyone to commend INEC because the mock accreditation was well prepared and not done in all the polling units. We have to wait for the main elections to pass a verdict. For example, when you talk of security presence in the polling units, did you take into consideration that the exercise is done in some selected units which means more security will be deployed in that particular unit? When its the general elections, youll see two or three policemen in polling units. We also have to wait and see the people that will do the work. Some of the ad-hoc staff may turn out to be not well trained. So, they should have used some of the ad-hoc staff in this exercise to also test their efficiency, Mr Kuraye said. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print As Nigeria joins the rest of the world to commemorate the 2023 World Cancer Day (WCD), a group of cancer advocates has called for the timely release and full implementation of the cancer treatment fund. The advocates made the call on Saturday during a march to mark this years Cancer Day. The walk was organised by Project Pink Blue in partnership with other advocates. Speaking immediately after a 5km walk, Gloria Orji, the President, Network of People Impacted by Cancer in Nigeria (NEPICIN), said Nigeria bears a very high burden of cancer and many people die due to lack of treatment. Ms Orji said cancer is a costly disease which many Nigerians cannot afford to treat hence the cancer treatment fund will save lots of lives. She said only about 400 patients have so far benefited from the fund according to the information she received. The last time I received information about the fund, I was told about 400 patients have benefited which is still a drop in the ocean. We have about N1 billion yet to be accessed. We plead for this fund to be released to support cancer patients and help them survive the killer disease, she said. The Nigerian government in 2019 announced plans to roll out a cancer treatment fund as part of efforts to reduce the burden of treating cancer in the country. Although the implementation has commenced, the cancer patients community said they are yet to fully access the fund. A deadly disease Cancer is a disease that occurs when changes happen in a group of normal cells within the body leading to uncontrolled, abnormal growth and forming a lump called a tumour. Depending on where the tumour is discovered, cancers are generally classified into five major groups including Carcinoma, which affects the lining of cells that helps to protect organs such as the breast, lung, colon or prostate; Lymphoma and Myeloma, which affect the immune system, and Sarcoma, which affects bones or soft tissues. There is also Leukaemia, which affects the blood, and those tumours that affect the central nervous system, which could either be brain or spinal cord cancers. The most common cancers globally are breast, lung, colon and prostate cancer, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO). Generally, it is estimated that 10 million people die of cancer annually worldwide, and that 70 per cent of these deaths occur in low-to-middle income countries including Nigeria. Nigeria, as compared to most developing countries, is still lagging behind in cancer diagnosis, treatment, and survival rates. This is due to many factors such as late detection, misdiagnosis, lack of medical expertise to treat patients, lack of chemotherapy facilities or radiotherapy machines and high cost of cancer management. Although there are no established causes of cancer, some predisposing factors such as smoking, alcohol, air pollution, exposure to excessive radiation, viruses, genetic/hereditary factors among others have been identified. Financial help The Programme Coordinator at Project Pink Blue, Gloria Okwu, said Nigeria is a significant contributor to cancer burden globally. Ms Okwu said the number of people dying of cancer in Nigeria keeps increasing every year due primarily to high cost of management. She appeals to the government and other stakeholders to come to the aid of cancer patients to reduce the burden of treatment. The MD of Transcorp Hotel, Dupe Olushola, said cancer is real and can affect anyone at any time. Ms Olushola said it is important to create awareness on cancer and also ensure access to adequate financing. For us, this awareness creation is important because we cannot afford to lose our youths every year, she said. She urged the government and all private stakeholders to invest in health and improve the lives of its citizens. World Cancer Day World Cancer Day is an international event marked on 4 February every year, to raise awareness of the disease and to encourage its prevention, detection, and treatment The theme of this year is Close the Care Gap: Uniting our Voices and Taking Action. In a statement to commemorate the day, WHO Regional Director for Africa, Matshidiso Moeti, said this years campaign summons like-minded people to be united to build stronger alliances and new innovative collaborations in the fight against cancer. Ms Moeti said cancer remains a public health issue of major concern. She noted that approximately 1.1 million new cancer cases occur each year in Africa, with about 700,000 deaths. Data estimates show a considerable increase in cancer mortality to nearly one million deaths per year by 2030, without urgent and bold interventions, she said. Awareness walk The 5km walk, tagged: Choke Cancer had in attendance bikers, cyclists in full gear, skaters, ladies bearing placards, men and children. They marched from Transcorp Hilton Hotels in the Federal Capital Territory through the federal secretariat road to raise awareness against the deadly ailment that claims thousands of lives yearly. Medical services were also provided on the side for participants of the walk. Some of the services include screening for breast, cervical and prostate cancers, as well as blood sugar and Hepatitis B tests. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print Lebanon police have arrested two men in connection to suspected child abuse. Officers arrested 22-year-old Caden James Waskom and 35-year-old Todd Allen Daniel Altherr, both of Lebanon, on suspicion of third-degree assault and first-degree criminal mistreatment, according to an agency news release. On Tuesday, Jan. 31 at around midnight, Lebanon police responded to a report of suspicious injuries to a 1-year-old child. The childs parents brought him to the Lebanon Community Hospital before medics transported the child to Randall Childrens Hospital at Legacy Emmanuel for additional care and treatment, police said. Detectives responded to the hospital and learned two men Waskom and Altherr were in care of the child when the injuries happened. The pair were known to the childs parents. The injuries to the child were consistent with statements detectives received during investigation, according to the news release. The investigation is ongoing, and anyone with information is asked to contact Detective James Glover at 541-258-4326 or Lt. Ryan Padua at 541-258-4325. Both men were arraigned in Linn County Circuit Court on Friday, Feb. 3. In a notice filed with the court, the prosecution stated its intent to seek an enhanced sentence should Altherr be found guilty. The notice alleged Altherr has been persistently involved in similar offenses and was on probation or post-prison supervision for a similar offense at the time of the crime. According to Oregons online court database, Altherr was convicted of first-degree criminal mistreatment in 2020 for causing injury to a dependent in his care. He was also convicted of third-degree assault in 2015 for causing injury to a victim under the age of 10. Okey Ahiwe, who resigned unannounced a few days ago as chief of staff to Governor Okezie Ikpeazu of Abia State, has emerged the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate in the state Mr Ahiwe emerged from Saturdays rerun primary election held at the Umuahia Township Stadium, having defeated four other aspirants, including the Deputy Governor Ude Oko-Chukwu. He replaces Uche Ikonne, a professor, who died on 25 January, following a brief illness. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Mr Ahiwe secured 469 votes, followed by Mr Oko-Chukwu and Lucky Igbokwe, who polled 12 votes each. Other contestants, including Samson Orji got 11 votes, while Emma Nwaka, a former PDP chairperson, got no vote. A total of 12 of the 504 votes cast during the exercise were voided. NAN reports that Eric Opah, Ezinwanyi Jonah and a former commissioner for Works, Bob Ogu, stepped down from the race for Mr Ahiwe. The Returning Officer for the exercise, Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State, declared Mr Ahiwe the winner of the election. Earlier in a speech, Mr Obaseki described the exercise as a process that would strengthen democracy. As long as the process has been done the party would mobilise all the necessary resources to support the candidate, he said. In an acceptance speech, Mr Ahiwe said his emergence was a consensus building and victory for all the members of the PDP. READ ALSO: I encourage all the contestants to join hands with me to take the party to the next level. And by the grace of God, we will win all our elections, he further said. Mr Ahiwe, 57, hails from the same Isiala-Ngwa North Local Government Area with late Ikonne. In the aftermath of Ikonnes death, the state PDP caucus micro-zoned the governorship ticked to the area to compensate the people. (NAN) Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print Residents and Officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) who took part in the mock accreditation exercise in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) have expressed satisfaction with the process. INEC had scheduled the mock accreditation for February in selected polling units in the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory to further familiarise voters with the Bimodal Voters Accreditation System (BVAS) machine and increase voters confidence in the commissions activities. While monitoring the exercise in some parts of the Federal Capital Territory, INEC Chairman, Mahmood Yakubu, a professor, expressed satisfaction with the performance of the BVAS machine. The aim of conducting the mock accreditation is to further confirm the performance of the BVAS machine, he said. Mr Yakubu, who visited some of the polling units, stated that the commission did not receive any report of accreditation failure. In the two polling units we have visited so far, there is no report of failure; the machines have performed optimally and this is the report we are getting so far, nationwide, he said. We have also made contingency arrangements like we will do on Election Day, that there is a spare machine in case, and in the unlikely event of a malfunction, we will be able to respond and fix the machines. Mr Yakubu explained that from the mock exercise witnessed, it took less than 30 seconds to accredit a voter, adding that this was the report INEC was getting from all the selected polling units nationwide. PREMIUM TIMESS reporters who monitored the exercise across different polling units in the FCT observed a quite low turnout of voters for the mock accreditation. Those who spoke, however, expressed confidence in the BVAS and noted that the process was swift. Abuja Municipal Area Council Around 12:00 pm, Chris Nwuani tried to get accredited at the Area 10 polling unit. Even though not his polling unit of registration, Mr Nwani said he wanted to be sure about INECs claim that the machine would only accredit individuals at their registered polling units. This is not my polling unit, he said. But I came to try to see truthfully what weve been hearing about the BVAS and all that. I got here and from the beginning they checked and they told me my number is not here. But one of the supervisors said they should try it if the BVAS will accept it or not. So, when they checked, the BVAS said no, the information cannot be found here. While the BVAS failed to accredit him, it accredited other voters who are from the Area 10 polling unit, he said. INEC officials at the polling unit told our reporter that they accredited eight individuals so far at 12:00 pm. There is a total of 2052 registered voters in the polling unit, one of the officials said. This experience, Mr Nwani said, increased his confidence that the BVAS is active enough to identify every eligible voter. There is no way the BVAS will not identify a voter, one official serving as the Presiding Officer at the Area 10 polling unit told our reporter. He said the BVAS will identify a voter through any of their ten fingers, and if that fails, the handler of the BVAS will use the facial recognition feature to identify the voter. Bwari Area Council At Esu (Sa-Bwaya) Palace, Bwari Area Counci,l Abuja, a total of 36 people were accredited out of the 1,799 total registered voters at the ward, according to the electoral officer, Gloria Stephens. The electoral officer who described the mock accreditation as smooth, said the exercise kicked off at about 8:30 a. m. The process has been smooth I must say, we have been able to use two BVAS to accredit 36 people so far and the network has been fine at this area. We have a total of 1,799 total registered voters. We are hoping for more, he said. At the Centre, it was observed that international Observer groups such as the NDI were present to monitor the accreditation process. READ ALSO: Also a total of three political agents were present: the ruling APC, and the major opposition parties, PDP and ADC. Qosim Suleiman is a reporter at Premium Times in partnership with Report for the World, which matches local newsrooms with talented emerging journalists to report on under-covered issues around the globe Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print The nationwide mock accreditation by the Independent National Electoral Commission on Saturday witnessed an impressive turnout in Yobe State. The exercise which is part of the build up to the 12 February presidential and national assembly elections and the governorship and state assembly elections took place in 12 polling units in the three senatorial districts of Yobe State. In Damaturu Local Government Area, the exercise was carried out at the REB Gate polling state with code no 003 and at Murfa Kalam Village. INEC officials at the polling unit and civil society organisations that monitored the exercise told our correspondent that the exercise was smooth and the turnout of people impressive. The Resident Electoral Commissioner of the state, Ibrahim Abdullahi, said the exercise has given confidence to the people in the system ahead of the general elections. What we are witnessing here today is the mock accreditation exercise of the commission. This exercise is taking place in 12 polling units in the three senatorial districts of Yobe State. I am happy with what I have seen so far. The registration officials from what I have learnt on interaction with them is encouraging. I have been informed that the machines are working in full capacity without any problem. This is very important because this exercise is not just about testing the efficacy of the machines but also building confidence in the electorate and I am happy we are doing that today, Mr. Abdullahi informed. The representative of YIAGA Africa Tanimu Salifu said the accreditation was hitched free. Mr Salifu who is the supervisor of YIAGA Africa for the forthcoming election in Damaturu Local Government praised the interest shown by the people for the exercise. From what we have witnessed here today, it is a clear indication of the enthusiasm of the voters in the forthcoming election, Mr. Salifu said. Another Civil society observer, Bilkisu Ahmed, from the International Organization for Sustainable Development informed that everything was going on smoothly from her records We are here to observe what is going on in the INEC Mock Accreditation exercise. As you can see, everything is going on fine and smoothly as expected, Bilkisu said. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print Usani Usani, former minister of Niger Delta Affairs and governorship candidate of the Peoples Redemption Party (PRP) in Cross River State, narrowly escaped being killed by suspected kidnappers along the Calabar-Ikom highway. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that two unidentified persons were, however, not lucky as they were killed by the gunmen who shot at their vehicles in a bid to abduct them. Mr Usani was said to be on his way to his home town in Nko, Yakurr Local Government Area, alongside the deputy governorship candidate and others when they were attacked. He was minister in the first term of President Muhammadu Buhari administration. The State Commissioner of Police, Sule Balarabe, who confirmed the news, said it occurred between the axis of Akamkpa and Biase Local Government Areas of the state at about 4 p.m. on Friday. He said it started when a white Ford with Registration number AAA 41 AQ was ambushed by the suspected kidnappers, killing the two yet-to-be identified victims. The commissioner further said that three other persons were abducted in the process by the gunmen. The vehicle in which they killed two persons had seven occupants including two police officers, ASP Ibor Bassey and Insp. Ebro Ebri who escaped and called for reinforcement. A tactical unit was immediately dispatched to the area and three persons have so far been rescued, he stated. Mr Balarabe said that the rescued persons were members of the PRP who were traveling with the former minister. He solicited support by way of useful information to the police from the communities along the Calabar-Ikom highway. We are appealing to all community leaders and traditional rulers to help security agencies by providing us with useful information through our dedicated lines. These criminals are not spirits, they are human beings who live amongst them, without useful and timely information, it will be very difficult to nip this nefarious activities in the bud, he said. Speaking on the attack, media aide to the former minister, David Agabi, said that they escaped by the whiskers. According to him, We were in a convoy, the gunmen started shooting at us around Betem in Biase, my principals driver sustained gunshot injuries while the vehicle was riddled with bullets. Other members of our party in the convoy also suffered various degrees of injuries. Four persons were abducted but as I speak to you, only three have regained freedom, one person is still missing, my principal is in good condition. (NAN) Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print The police in Enugu State, South-east Nigeria, said they have arrested two persons for alleged possession and attempted sale of fake redesigned naira notes. The police spokesperson in the state, Daniel Ndukwe, disclosed this in a statement on Friday. Mr Ndukwe, a deputy superintendent of police, said the two suspects were arrested at about 9:05 p.m. on Thursday at different locations in the state. The police spokesperson gave the names of the suspects as, Joseph Chinenye, 39, and Onyeka Ezeja, 29, who were arrested at Iheakpu-Awka, Igbo-Eze South and Onicha, Enugu Ezike, Igbo-Eze North Local Government Areas of the state respectively. He said the arrest of the suspects followed receipt of information about them. The police said the suspects were in possession of suspected counterfeited 180 pieces of the Central Bank of Nigerias newly redesigned N1000 notes with face value of N180,000. READ ALSO: Mr Ndukwe said preliminary investigation showed that the fake naira notes which were in three separate batches, among others, bear the same serial numbers while the suspects claimed to have obtained the notes from an unidentified woman in Benin, Edo State, South-south Nigeria. In addition, they (the suspects) confessed to attempting to sell the notes to a PoS operator, who rejected them at a filling station in Ibagwa-Aka Community of Igbo-Eze South Council Area, where they used the notes to purchase petrol, he said. The police spokesperson said the two suspects would be arraigned in court as soon as investigation into the case was concluded by the State Criminal Investigation Department. The Commissioner of Police in Enugu State, Ahmed Ammani, reassured of the commitment of the police to fish out criminals perpetrating acts such as economic sabotage, Mr Ndukwe said. Mr Ammani urged residents of the state to be vigilant and exercise caution while obtaining and carrying out transactions with naira notes, especially the redesigned ones. The police commissioner appealed to the residents to support the police in their quest to fight crime relating to the newly redesigned naira notes in the state. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Abia State is electing a new governorship candidate on Saturday for the 11 March election, the party has announced. The rerun primary election follows the death of Uchenna Ikonne, the partys governorship candidate in the state. Mr Ikonne, a professor and former vice chancellor of the Abia State University Uturu, passed away on 25 January at the National Hospital Abuja, according to a statement from his first son, Uche-Ikonne Chikezie, on behalf of the family. The professor of Optometry had been endorsed by Governor Okezie Ikpeazu as his preferred successor. Zoning debate Before Mr Ikonne won the ticket, the party had zoned it to Abia North and Abia Central senatorial districts. PREMIUM TIMES reported how several party members from outside the two districts protested the arrangement. Some of them later defected from the PDP in protest. The deceased governorship candidate hailed from Nsulu, a community in Isiala Ngwa North Council Area. Isiala Ngwa North where Mr Ikonne hailed from is in Abia Central District. Following his death, the PDP micro-zoned the ticket to Isiala Ngwa North in the Abia Central District. The rezoning of the ticket to the district indicated that the PDP has maintained its position in the district. Battle of three The new arrangement forced many aspirants, mainly from Abia North, to withdraw from the new race, PREMIUM TIMES learnt. This newspaper gathered that the PDP has cleared three aspirants from Isiala Ngwa North to contest for the ticket. They are the Chief of Staff to Governor Ikpeazu, Okey Ahiwe, the State Commissioner for Works, Bob Ogu and a famous entrepreneur, Eric Opah. Key aspirants and chances However, PREMIUM TIMES reliably gathered that the governor has anointed his Chief of Staff as his preferred successor and Mr Ahiwe is therefore expected to win the primary. Multiple sources from the PDP circle confirmed to this newspaper that the governor has settled for Mr Ahiwe. Ahiwe is the chosen one. It is signed and sealed, a source said. The chief of staff was among the aspirants that contested for the ticket in May but was asked to step aside for Mr Ikonne. Mr Ogu and the entrepreneur, Mr Opah, were said to have been used to add to the number to avoid presenting only one contestant for the exercise. Sources, however, said the two have been promised public positions if the party wins the general election. Trouble still looms A controversy over the selection of three-member ad-hoc delegates from each ward is yet to be buried, despite the emergence and death of Mr Ikonne last year. Only the delegates are qualified to vote at the primary. How it began Before the previous primary, many party members had alleged the production of a fake list of ad-hoc delegates across the 184 wards of the state. The ward congresses for the election of tge of the PDP were initially billed for 30 April, but were cancelled due to a court order. Although the party rescheduled the congresses for 4 May after the order was vacated, it failed to hold because of a public holiday observed on that day. However, while some party members waited for the announcement of a new date for the congresses, Governor Ikpeazu allegedly wrote a list of the delegates across the wards and sent it to the National Working Committee (NWC) of the party. But Mr Ikpeazu and his loyalists claimed that the ward congresses were held on 6 May although seven of the then aspirants denied the claim. On 22 May, the aspirants, led by Enyinnaya Abaribe, the then Senate Minority Leader, at a press conference at the partys secretariat in Abuja, asked the NWC to take immediate action to prevent an impending implosion of the party in Abia State. The incumbent deputy governor of the state, Ude Chukwu, who was also a governorship aspirant at that time, was part of the seven aspirants who rejected the delegate list. Describing the list as a nullity, the then aspirants said the action of those who compiled and submitted it to the partys national secretariat was against the law. Only the national chairman and national secretary of a political party can communicate with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) at their National Headquarters in respect of congresses, primaries and conventions. Neither the state chairman of a party nor the REC of INEC has (sic) any role in the matter and so the said congresses of the 6th day of May 2022 are dead on arrival, Mr Abaribe had said at the conference, on behalf of the six others. It is preposterous that what is being bandied as a list emanated from an imaginary congress conducted via a letter of notice to the Abia State Resident Electoral Commissioner signed by the Abia State Chairman of the PDP, Mr. Allwell Asiforo Okere. The implication being that the functions of NEC and NWC were performed by a State Chairman of the party and not the National Chairman and Secretary of PDP, he added. INEC position INEC too has maintained that Abia State PDP did not conduct its ad-hoc delegate election. Please, refer to your letter dated May 11, 2022 requesting confirmation if the commission is in receipt of a letter from the PDP national chairman and national secretary that rescheduled the partys Abia State ward congresses that failed to hold on May 4, 2022. This is to confirm that the last notice received from the PDP national headquarters was the one that scheduled the Abia State ward congress May 4, 2022, INEC said in a letter, adding that it was still expecting a new date after the congress failed to hold on the scheduled date. The letter, signed by the commissions Secretary, Rose Oriaran-Anthony, and dated 13 May, was written in response to an enquiry by an Abuja-based legal practitioner. The faction of the party in the state loyal to Mr Ikpeazu, however, continued to insist that it conducted the three-member delegate elections. Some of the seven aggrieved aspirants, including Mr Abaribe, later defected to opposition political parties in the state. Implication A member of the PDP in the state, who asked not to be named, told PREMIUM TIMES that the old and controversial delegate list earlier used during the election of Mr Ikonne will still be used for the rerun primary. However, PREMIUM TIMES learnt that the validity of the list is still being contested before the Federal High Court, Umuahia. One of the aspirants in the 25 May primary, Sampson Orji, filed a suit in the court seeking the nullification of Mr Ikonnes governorship ticket on the ground that the delegates that voted in the primary were not elected. The court is yet to rule on the matter, it was gathered. There are feelings that if the PDP should go ahead with the rerun primary without addressing the controversy over the delegate list, it may jeopardise its own chances of participation in the general election, such as played out in Zamfara State in 2019. It remains an albatross on anyone that gets the governorship ticket, a high-profile party member said of the delegate list. The Zamfara Scenario Two factions of the All Progressives Congress in Zamfara State, led by Kabiru Marafa and then Governor Abdulaziz Yari had fought over the control of the party in the state ahead of the 2019 elections. Because of the disagreement, the party failed to hold valid primary elections within the stipulated time, as required by law. Although the INEC went ahead to allow the party to participate in the polls, and the party won every seat including the governorship, the Supreme Court later voided all votes cast for the party and consequently voided the victory of all its candidates in the February 23 and March 16, 2029 general elections in the state. The court ruled that the party had no candidates in the elections, as it failed to conduct primaries in accordance with its own rules and as required by law. It consequently ordered candidates of the political party that came second, which happened to be the PDP, to take over as the duly elected contestants. Ironically, virtually all those awarded the offices, including Governor Bello Matawalle, later defected from the PDP to the APC. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print Funding Will Be Used to Develop Shelf-Stable Product for Trauma Patients to Potentially Save Lives BALTIMORE, Feb. 4, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- A University of Maryland School of Medicine (UMSOM) physician-scientist will head a new federally-funded research program to develop and test a whole blood product, storable at room temperature, that can be used to transfuse wounded soldiers in the field within 30 minutes of injury, potentially saving thousands of lives. UMSOM will manage the $46.4 million four-year research project administered by the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA), in collaboration with the University of Maryland School of Pharmacy (UMSOP) and more than a dozen universities and biotech companies. "We have assembled an outstanding team to develop a bio-synthetic whole-blood product that can be freeze-dried for easy portability, storage, and reconstitution," said study principal investigator Allan Doctor, MD, Professor of Pediatrics and Director of the Center for Blood Oxygen Transport and Hemostasis (CBOTH) at UMSOM. "It will be designed for easy use in the field by medics at the point of injury, and will perform like a traditional blood transfusion to, for example, stabilize a patient's blood pressure or facilitate blood clotting." To achieve this goal, the program will employ sophisticated artificial intelligence, state-of-the-art experimental platforms, and multiple complimentary animal models. The product will be tested for efficacy and safety in trauma victims who have complex multiple injuries including shock and traumatic brain injury. Bleeding is the most common cause of potentially survivable death in trauma, in both military and civilian settings. Whole blood transfusions remain the gold standard but present logistical challenges such as the dependence on available donors, requirement for cold storage, and limited viability of about 40 days. Rapid evacuation of patients who are rapidly bleeding out due to a gunshot wound or other trauma is not always an option. For this reason, there is an urgent need for an artificial blood product with a long shelf life that is easy to transport. To conduct this project, Dr. Doctor has assembled a consortium comprising faculty members from UMSOM and UMSOP to work on the artificial oxygen carrier (red blood cell) component that he pioneered in earlier studies and on pharmacology, computational modeling, and machine learning to optimize the combined product, which will also include synthetic platelets and freeze-dried plasma. This product will consist of ErythroMer, the artificial blood product made by KaloCyte, a company co-founded by Dr. Doctor in 2016 with bioengineer and synthetic chemist Dipanjan Pan, PhD, MSc, Professor in nano medicine at Penn State University, and Philip Spinella, MD, a military transfusion medicine expert at the University of Pittsburgh. It will also include a synthetic platelet product developed by Anirban Sen Gupta, PhD of Case Western Reserve University that is under development by Haima Therapeutics and a freeze-dried plasma product made by Telefex. Dr. Doctor is a founding partner, Chief Scientific Officer, and Chair of the Board of Directors for KaloCyte, which could potentially benefit from this research. His interest in the company has been reviewed in accordance with the university's conflicts of interest policy to ensure objectivity in the research. "We are well-positioned to support this highly complex project that requires the use of advanced modeling and simulation, and a machine learning software system to optimize the prototypes and to test for safety and efficacy in models of complex trauma with multiple complications," said study co-investigator Joga Gobburu, PhD, MBA, Professor of Practice, Sciences, and Health Outcomes Research, and Director of the Center for Translational Medicine at UMSOP. The first phase of the study will be to integrate multiple bio-artificial and synthetic components to deliver oxygen, stop bleeding, and replace volume; these are key therapeutic functions of whole blood in resuscitation. In the second phase, the team will evaluate efficacy and safety in increasingly complex and realistic trauma models. This phase will also involve developing strategies for stabilizing the product for months under ambient climate conditions in extreme environments. Throughout both phases, the team will also plan, develop, and refine manufacturing methods. This will address the real-world pragmatic challenges of production, scaling, packaging, and quality control that must be surmounted to enable effective transition of the developed products to successful clinical trials and, eventually, to safe and efficient clinical utility. While UMSOM and UMSOP will be leading this effort, the consortium also includes leading scientists and complimentary experts from Case Western Reserve University, Charles River Laboratories, Latham Biopharm Group, Ohio State University, Pumas-AI Inc., Southwest Research Institute, University of California San Diego, University of Pittsburgh, Oregon Health Sciences University, University of Texas Austin and University of North Carolina, in addition to the companies developing the bio-synthetic blood components themselves: Haima Therapeutics, KaloCyte, and Teleflex. "About 20,000 Americans each year bleed to death before they can be brought to the hospital. Transfusion at the point of injury is required to stablilize them and limit other organ injury," said UMSOM Dean Mark T. Gladwin, MD, Vice President for Medical Affairs, University of Maryland, Baltimore, and the John Z. and Akiko K. Bowers Distinguished Professor. "This project will utilize cutting edge technologies like artificial intelligence to predict interactions among the blood components in various trauma model systems, which would not have been possible a decade ago." DARPA's Fieldable Solutions for Hemorrhage with bio-Artificial Resuscitation Products (FSHARP) program aims to develop a field-deployable, shelf-stable whole blood equivalent that can be used to resuscitate trauma patients when donated blood products are not available. Other subcontractors have the potential to join the consortium pending the exercise of additional options in the FSHARP award. About the University of Maryland School of Medicine Now in its third century, the University of Maryland School of Medicine was chartered in 1807 as the first public medical school in the United States. It continues today as one of the fastest growing, top-tier biomedical research enterprises in the world -- with 46 academic departments, centers, institutes, and programs, and a faculty of more than 3,000 physicians, scientists, and allied health professionals, including members of the National Academy of Medicine and the National Academy of Sciences, and a distinguished two-time winner of the Albert E. Lasker Award in Medical Research. With an operating budget of more than $1.3 billion, the School of Medicine works closely in partnership with the University of Maryland Medical Center and Medical System to provide research-intensive, academic, and clinically based care for nearly 2 million patients each year. The School of Medicine has nearly $600 million in extramural funding, with most of its academic departments highly ranked among all medical schools in the nation in research funding. As one of the seven professional schools that make up the University of Maryland, Baltimore campus, the School of Medicine has a total population of nearly 9,000 faculty and staff, including 2,500 students, trainees, residents, and fellows. The combined School of Medicine and Medical System ("University of Maryland Medicine") has an annual budget of over $6 billion and an economic impact of nearly $20 billion on the state and local community. The School of Medicine, which ranks as the 8th highest among public medical schools in research productivity (according to the Association of American Medical Colleges profile) is an innovator in translational medicine, with 606 active patents and 52 start-up companies. In the latest U.S. News & World Report ranking of the Best Medical Schools, published in 2021, the UM School of Medicine is ranked #9 among the 92 public medical schools in the U.S., and in the top 15 percent (#27) of all 192 public and private U.S. medical schools. The School of Medicine works locally, nationally, and globally, with research and treatment facilities in 36 countries around the world. Visit medschool.umaryland.edu This news release was issued on behalf of Newswise. For more information, visit http://www.newswise.com. SOURCE University of Maryland School of Medicine NEW ORLEANS, Feb. 3, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Former Attorney General of Louisiana, Charles C. Foti, Jr., Esq., a partner at the law firm of Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC ("KSF"), announces that KSF continues its investigation into Boston Scientific Corporation (NYSE: BSX). On November 17, 2020, the Company announced a global recall of all unused inventory of its LOTUS Edge Aortic Valve System, due to "complexities associated with the product delivery system," and that "[g]iven the additional time and investment required to develop and reintroduce an enhanced delivery system, the company has chosen to retire the entire LOTUS product platform immediately." Thereafter, the Company and certain of its executives were sued in a securities class action lawsuit, charging them with failing to disclose material information during the Class Period, violating federal securities laws. Recently, the court presiding over that case denied the Company's motion to dismiss in part, allowing the case to move forward. KSF's investigation is focusing on whether Boston Scientific's officers and/or directors breached their fiduciary duties to its shareholders or otherwise violated state or federal laws. If you have information that would assist KSF in its investigation, or have been a long-term holder of Boston Scientific shares and would like to discuss your legal rights, you may, without obligation or cost to you, call toll-free at 1-877-515-1850 or email KSF Managing Partner Lewis Kahn ([email protected]), or visit https://www.ksfcounsel.com/cases/nyse-bsx/ to learn more. About Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC KSF, whose partners include former Louisiana Attorney General Charles C. Foti, Jr., is one of the nation's premier boutique securities litigation law firms. KSF serves a variety of clients including public institutional investors, hedge funds, money managers and retail investors in seeking to recover investment losses due to corporate fraud and malfeasance by publicly traded companies. KSF has offices in New York, California and Louisiana. To learn more about KSF, you may visit www.ksfcounsel.com. Contact: Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC Lewis Kahn, Managing Partner [email protected] 1-877-515-1850 1100 Poydras St., Suite 3200 New Orleans, LA 70163 SOURCE Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC NANJING, China, Feb. 4, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- As the Year of the Rabbit just arrived in 2023, the overseas social media account @Visit Jiangsu of Jiangsu Provincial Department of Culture and Tourism launched several Chinese New Year activities on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube and TikTok through various creative interactive forms such as videos, pictures and texts, digital live streaming, online interaction, Greeting the Chinese New Year in Multiple Languages Challenge and so on to help people from all around the world to learn about the Chinese New Year and the culture of Jiangsu. The posts reached 3.08 million followers and accumulated 662,000 interactions, covering nearly 100 countries and regions around the world, bringing people an audio-visual feast of "Charm of Jiangsu" which is full of Chinese New Year atmosphere. This year, the Chinese New Year visual convergence media products, integrating elements of the landmarks in Jiangsu, paper cutting-an intangible cultural heritage, and other characteristic elements, created the Year of the Rabbit banner of our social media, photos of the online puzzle games, Chinese New Year posters and other creative visual products which were pinned to the top on multiple platforms. We strive to present an interesting and unique Chinese New Year in Jiangsu for our overseas fans with a multi-level vision. At the same time, a special column of "The Charm of Jiangsu" was set up on our social media account @Visit Jiangsu with the topic of "Happy Chinese New Year". The column is produced with the theme of "knowledge of Chinese New Year customs in Jiangsu", "Chinese New Year food in Jiangsu" and "tour Jiangsu during the Chinese New Year" in localized languages overseas to introduce the Chinese New Year-related culture, food, and tourist attractions. In addition, @Visit Jiangsu continuously introduced rich Chinese New Year programs to "cloud live broadcast" and kept improving its digital innovation. It also combined multiple-performance forms with immersive scenes through the introduction of different styles of Chinese New Year performances about Jiangsu's culture, customizing Chinese New Year AR Filter and other ways to create a new sensory experience in culture and tourism about Chinese New Year. Up to now, the AR Filter has been used for 250,000 times and accumulated 116,000 interactions. People from all around the world participated in the @Visit Jiangsu Year of the Rabbit AR filter to celebrate the Chinese New Year together. @Visit Jiangsu carried out an activity named "Greeting the Chinese New Year in Multiple Languages " on overseas social media platforms on Chinese New Year's Eve to make overseas friends feel the strong atmosphere of Chinese New Year. We invited fans and overseas KOLs to greet the Chinese New Year, celebrate the Chinese New Year with @Visit Jiangsu, extend best wishes for Chinese New Year and feel the charm of greeting the Chinese New Year in different languages, which brings different languages and cultures closer together in the form of videos and pictures. A series of "Happy Chinese New Year" activities created by Jiangsu Provincial Department of Culture and Tourism has showed the overseas audience the festive atmosphere and leisure life during the Chinese New Year and a more open, diversified and energetic image of Jiangsu, China. Video - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1995489/video.mp4 SOURCE Jiangsu Provincial Department of Culture and Tourism MEXICO CITY, Feb. 3, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Financiera Independencia, S.A.B. de C.V., Sociedad Financiera de Objeto Multiple, Entidad No Regulada (" FINDEP " or the " Company "), is announcing today the early tender results in connection with its previously announced (i) offer to exchange (the " Exchange Offer ") any and all of its outstanding 8.000% Senior Notes due 2024 (the " Existing Notes ") for its newly issued 10.000% Step-Up Senior Notes due 2028 (the " Step-Up Notes ") and (ii) the consent solicitation to solicit consents (the " Consent Solicitation ") from Eligible Holders (as defined below) of the Existing Notes to amend (the " Proposed Amendments ") the indenture governing the Existing Notes to eliminate substantially all of the restrictive covenants and various events of default and related provisions, contained in such indenture. In addition, the Company is announcing the extension of the payment of the Early Exchange Payment (as defined herein) through the Expiration Date (as defined herein). Pursuant to the terms and conditions of the Exchange Offer and related Consent Solicitation, as set forth in the Exchange Offer Memorandum and Consent Solicitation Statement, dated January 24, 2023 (the " Exchange Offer Memorandum "), the early expiration date occurred at 5:00 p.m., New York City time, on February 3, 2023 (the " Early Expiration Date "). As of 5:00 p.m., New York City time, on the Early Expiration Date, the following principal amount of Existing Notes have been validly tendered and not validly withdrawn pursuant to the Exchange Offer and Consent Solicitation: CUSIP No. / ISIN No. Existing Notes Outstanding Principal Amount Existing Notes Aggregate Principal Amount of Existing Notes Tendered Total Exchange Consideration(4) Step-Up Notes(1) Cash(2)(3) P4173S AF1; 31770B AC2 / USP4173SAF13; US31770BAC28 8.000% Senior Notes due 2024 U.S.$161,637,000 U.S.$92,545,000 U.S.$800 U.S.$210 ____________ (1) Consideration in the form of principal amount of Step-Up Notes per U.S.$1,000 principal amount of Existing Notes that are validly tendered (and not validly withdrawn). (2) Consideration in the form of a cash payment per U.S.$1,000 principal amount of Existing Notes that are validly tendered (and not validly withdrawn). (3) Includes the Early Exchange Payment for Existing Notes validly tendered (and not validly withdraw) on or prior to the Early Expiration Date. (4) The Total Exchange Consideration does not include accrued and unpaid interest on Existing Notes accepted for exchange In order to provide Eligible Holders who have not yet participated with additional time to consider and participate in the Exchange Offer and Consent Solicitation, the Company has agreed to extend the payment of the cash exchange premium of U.S.$10 per U.S.$1,000 principal amount of Existing Notes tendered (the " Early Exchange Payment ") through the Expiration Date. As a result, Eligible Holders who validly tender Existing Notes on or prior to 5:00 p.m., New York City time, on February 17, 2023, unless extended (the " Expiration Date "), will receive the Total Exchange Consideration, which includes the Early Exchange Payment. " Total Exchange Consideration " means, for each U.S.$1,000 principal amount of Existing Notes validly tendered (and not validly withdrawn) and accepted by us: (1) U.S.$800 principal amount of Step-Up Notes and (2) a cash payment of U.S.$210. In addition, accrued and unpaid interest on the Existing Notes accepted for purchase from the last interest payment date of the Existing Notes to (but excluding) the Settlement Date will be paid in cash on the Settlement Date. The " Settlement Date " will be the date on which Step-Up Notes will be issued in exchange for Existing Notes accepted in the Exchange Offer and the cash consideration is paid to Eligible Holders, subject to all conditions to the Exchange Offer and Consent Solicitation having been satisfied or waived by the Company. Simultaneously with the Exchange Offer, the Company is soliciting Consents to the Proposed Amendments to the indenture governing the Existing Notes (the " Existing Notes Indenture ") to eliminate substantially all of the restrictive covenants and certain events of default and related provisions therein. The Proposed Amendments require the consents (the " Requisite Consents ") of holders of a majority in aggregate principal amount of the Existing Notes outstanding (excluding any Existing Notes held by the Company or its affiliates). As of 5:00 p.m., New York City time, on the Early Expiration Date, the Requisite Consents were received. The Withdrawal Date for the Exchange Offer and Consent Solicitation has passed and therefore Existing Notes validly tendered (and not validly withdrawn) and related consents validly delivered (and not validly revoked) cannot be withdrawn or revoked, as applicable. The Step-Up Notes will mature on March 1, 2028 (the " Maturity Date ") and will bear interest at a rate of 10.000% per annum from and including the Settlement Date, to (but excluding) March 1, 2026 (the " Interest Step-Up Date "). Thereafter, from and including the Interest Step-Up Date to (but excluding) their Maturity Date, the Step-Up Notes will bear interest at a rate of 12.000% per annum. Interest on the Step-Up Notes will be payable semiannually in arrears on each March 1 and September 1, commencing on September 1, 2023. The Step-Up Notes will be unconditionally and irrevocably guaranteed, jointly and severally, by Apoyo Economico Familiar, S.A. de C.V., Sofom, E.N.R., and Apoyo Financiero, Inc., as guarantors. The consummation of the Exchange Offer and the Consent Solicitation is subject to the satisfaction or waiver of a number of conditions as set forth in the Exchange Offer Memorandum, including the authorization by our board of directors and our shareholders of the issuance of the Step-Up Notes. Subject to applicable law, the Company has the right to terminate or withdraw the Exchange Offer and the Consent Solicitation at any time and for any reason, including if any of the conditions described in the Exchange Offer Memorandum are not satisfied. The Exchange Offer and Consent Solicitation is being made, and the Step-Up Notes are being offered and will be issued, only outside the United States to holders of the Existing Notes who are persons other than "U.S. persons" as defined in Regulation S (" Regulation S ") under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the " Securities Act "), who are not acquiring Step-Up Notes for the account or benefit of a U.S. person and who are "non-U.S. qualified offerees" (as defined under "Transfer Restrictions" in the Exchange Offer Memorandum), in offshore transactions in compliance with Regulation S under the Securities Act. The holders of Existing Notes who have certified to the Company that they are eligible to participate in the Exchange Offer and Consent Solicitation pursuant to the foregoing conditions are referred to as " Eligible Holders ." Only Eligible Holders are authorized to receive or review the Exchange Offer Memorandum and to participate in the Exchange Offer and Consent Solicitation. Eligible Holders are required to represent and warrant as to their status as Eligible Holders prior to receiving the Exchange Offer Memorandum and, upon tendering any Existing Notes, will be deemed to represent and warrant as to their status as Eligible Holders. None of the Exchange Offer, the Consent Solicitation nor the Step-Up Notes has been approved or recommended by any regulatory authority. Furthermore, no regulatory authority has been requested to confirm the accuracy or adequacy of the Exchange Offer Memorandum. Any representation to the contrary is a criminal offense. The Step-Up Notes have not been registered under the Securities Act, or any state securities laws. Accordingly, the Step-Up Notes will be subject to restrictions on transferability and resale and may not be transferred or resold except as permitted under the Securities Act and other applicable securities laws, pursuant to registration or exemption therefrom. D.F. King & Co., Inc. is acting as the Information and Exchange Agent for the Exchange Offer and Consent Solicitation. Questions or requests for assistance related to the Exchange Offer or for additional copies of the Exchange Offer Memorandum may be directed to D.F. King & Co., Inc. at (888) 478-5040 (U.S. toll free), +1(212) 269-5550 (collect), [email protected] (email) or www.dfking.com/findep (website). FINDEP has retained BCP Securities, Inc. to act as Dealer Manager in connection with the Exchange Offer and as Solicitation Agent in connection with the Consent Solicitation. The Step-Up Notes have not been and will not be registered under the Securities Act, and may not be offered or sold in the United States or to or for the account or benefit of U.S. persons except pursuant to an exemption from such registration. The Step-Up Notes are being offered for exchange only outside the United States, to holders of Existing Notes outside of the United States who are persons other than "U.S. persons" as defined in Regulation S under the Securities Act, who are not acquiring Step-Up Notes for the account or benefit of a U.S. person and who are "non-U.S. qualified offerees" (as defined in the Exchange Offer Memorandum), in offshore transactions in compliance with Regulation S under the Securities Act. For a description of eligible offerees and certain restrictions on transfer of the Step-Up Notes, see "Transfer Restrictions" in the Exchange Offer Memorandum. The Step-Up Notes are being offered pursuant to an exemption from the requirement to publish a prospectus under Regulation (EU) 2017/1129 (as amended and supplemented from time to time, or the " Prospectus Regulation "), of the European Union, and the Exchange Offer Memorandum has not been approved by a competent authority within the meaning of the Prospectus Regulation. The Step-Up Notes are not intended to be offered, sold, or otherwise made available to and should not be offered, sold, or otherwise made available to any retail investor in the European Economic Area (" EEA ") or the United Kingdom (" UK "). THE EXCHANGE OFFER AND CONSENT SOLICITATION IS NOT BEING MADE IN MEXICO. THE STEP-UP NOTES HAVE NOT BEEN AND WILL NOT BE REGISTERED WITH THE MEXICAN NATIONAL SECURITIES REGISTRY (REGISTRO NACIONAL DE VALORES), OR THE RNV MAINTAINED BY THE MEXICAN NATIONAL BANKING AND SECURITIES COMMISSION (COMISION NACIONAL BANCARIA Y DE VALORES), OR THE CNBV, AND, THEREFORE, MAY NOT BE OFFERED OR SOLD PUBLICLY IN MEXICO. THE INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THE EXCHANGE OFFER MEMORANDUM IS EXCLUSIVELY THE RESPONSIBILITY OF THE COMPANY AND HAS NOT BEEN REVIEWED OR AUTHORIZED BY THE CNBV. AS REQUIRED UNDER THE MEXICAN SECURITIES MARKET LAW (LEY DEL MERCADO DE VALORES), OR THE LMV, AND REGULATIONS THEREUNDER, WE WILL NOTIFY THE CNBV OF THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF THE OFFERING OF THE STEP-UP NOTES MADE OUTSIDE OF THE UNITED MEXICAN STATES ("MEXICO"), ON THE BUSINESS DAY FOLLOWING THE SETTLEMENT DATE. SUCH NOTICE WILL BE DELIVERED TO THE CNBV TO COMPLY WITH THE LMV AND REGULATIONS THEREUNDER, AND FOR STATISTICAL AND INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY, WHICH DOES NOT AND WILL NOT IMPLY NOR CONSTITUTE ANY CERTIFICATION AS TO THE INVESTMENT QUALITY OF THE STEP-UP NOTES, OUR SOLVENCY, LIQUIDITY OR CREDIT QUALITY OR THE ACCURACY OR COMPLETENESS OF THE INFORMATION INCLUDED IN THE EXCHANGE OFFER MEMORANDUM. IN MAKING AN INVESTMENT DECISION, ALL INVESTORS, INCLUDING ANY MEXICAN INVESTORS WHO MAY ACQUIRE STEP-UP NOTES FROM TIME TO TIME, MUST RELY ON THEIR OWN REVIEW AND EXAMINATION OF THE COMPANY. THE ACQUISITION OF THE STEP-UP NOTES BY AN INVESTOR WHO IS A RESIDENT OF MEXICO WILL BE MADE UNDER SUCH INVESTOR'S OWN RESPONSIBILITY. This announcement is for informational purposes only. This announcement shall not constitute an offer to sell or buy or the solicitation of an offer to buy or sell any securities, nor shall there be any offer, solicitation or sale of any securities in any state or other jurisdiction in which such an offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful. The Exchange Offer and Consent Solicitation is being made solely pursuant to the Exchange Offer Memorandum. No recommendation is made as to whether the holders of Existing Notes should tender their Existing Notes for exchange in the Exchange Offer and deliver their consents in the Consent Solicitation. Any person considering making an investment decision relating to the Step-Up Notes must inform itself independently based solely on the Exchange Offer Memorandum to be made available to Eligible Holders in connection with the Exchange Offer and Consent Solicitation before taking any such investment decision. The Step-Up Notes are not intended to be offered, or otherwise made available to and should not be offered or otherwise made available to any retail investor in the EEA. For these purposes, a retail investor means a person who is one (or more) of: (i) a retail client as defined in point (11) of Article 4(1) of Directive 2014/65/EU (as amended, "MiFID II"); or (ii) a customer within the meaning of Directive (EU) 2016/97 (as amended, the " Insurance Distribution Directive "), where that customer would not qualify as a professional client as defined in point (10) of Article 4(1) of MiFID II. Consequently, no key information document required by Regulation (EU) No 1286/2014 (as amended, the " PRIIPs Regulation ") for offering the Step-Up Notes or otherwise making them available to retail investors in the EEA, has been prepared and therefore offering the Step-Up Notes or otherwise making them available to any retail investor in the EEA may be unlawful under the PRIIPs Regulation. In any Member State of the EEA (each, a " Relevant Member State "); this communication is only addressed to and is only directed at qualified investors in that Member State within the meaning of the Prospectus Regulation. The Step-Up Notes are not intended to be offered otherwise made available to, and should not be offered or otherwise made available to, any retail investor in the UK. For these purposes, a retail investor means a person who is one (or more) of: (i) a retail client, as defined in point (8) of Article 2 of Regulation (EU) No 2017/565 as it forms part of domestic law by virtue of the European Union (Withdrawal) Act 2018 (" EUWA "); or (ii) a customer within the meaning of the provisions of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (as amended, the " FSMA ") and any rules or regulations made under the FSMA to implement the Insurance Distribution Directive (EU), where that customer would not qualify as a professional client, as defined in point (8) of Article 2(1) of Regulation (EU) No 600/2014 as it forms part of domestic law by virtue of the EUWA. Consequently, no key information document required by Regulation (EU) No 1286/2014 as it forms part of domestic law by virtue of the EUWA (the " UK PRIIPs Regulation ") for offering the Step-Up Notes or otherwise making them available to retail investors in the United Kingdom has been prepared and therefore offering the Step-Up Notes or otherwise making them available to any retail investor in the United Kingdom may be unlawful under the UK PRIIPs Regulation. In the UK, this communication is for distribution only to persons who (i) have professional experience in matters relating to investments falling within Article 19(5) of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (Financial Promotion) Order 2005 (as amended, the " Order "), (ii) are persons falling within Article 49(2)(a) to (d) ("high net worth companies, unincorporated associations etc.") of the Order or (iii) are persons to whom an invitation or inducement to engage in investment activity (within the meaning of Section 21 of the FSMA) in connection with the issue or sale of any Step-Up Notes may otherwise lawfully be communicated or caused to be communicated (all such persons together being referred to as "relevant persons"). This communication is directed only at relevant persons and must not be acted on or relied on by persons who are not relevant persons. NOTICE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS This release contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, which are intended to be covered by the safe harbor created by such sections and other applicable laws. Where the Company expresses or implies an expectation or belief as to future events or results, such expectation or belief is expressed in good faith and believed to have a reasonable basis. However, such statements are subject to risks, uncertainties and other factors, which could cause actual results to differ materially from future results expressed, projected or implied by the "forward-looking statements." The Company undertakes no obligation to release publicly revisions to any "forward-looking statement," including, without limitation, outlook, to reflect events or circumstances after the date of this news release, or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events, except as may be required under applicable securities laws. Investors should not assume that any lack of update to a previously issued "forward-looking statement" constitutes a reaffirmation of that statement. Continued reliance on "forward-looking statements" is at investors' own risk. SOURCE Financiera Independencia, S.A.B. de C.V. Late breaking analysis of one-year outcomes from the inspIRE clinical study demonstrated early success at the prespecified interim analysis IRVINE, Calif., Feb. 3, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Biosense Webster, Inc., a global leader in cardiac arrhythmia treatment and part of Johnson & Johnson MedTech,i announced that positive results from the inspIRE company-sponsored clinical trial were presented as a late breaker, titled "Paroxysmal AF Ablation Using a Variable-Loop Pulsed Field Ablation Catheter Integrated with a 3D Mapping System: One-Year Outcomes from inspIRE," at the 28th Annual International AF Symposium. In addition to being presented as an AF Symposium late breaker, the data will be simultaneously published in Circulation: Arrhythmia and Electrophysiology. To review the article online, click here. "The inspIRE study achieved early success at the prespecified interim analysis, meeting both primary safety and efficacy endpoints, achieving an important milestone in the development of the novel, mapping-integrated, variable-loop, pulsed field ablation catheter," said Vivek Y. Reddy, MD, Director of Cardiac Arrhythmia Services at The Mount Sinai Hospital and the Mount Sinai Health System, and The Leona M. and Harry B. Helmsley Charitable Trust Professor of Medicine in Cardiac Electrophysiology at Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai.ii "PFA is a new frontier in cardiac ablation and seeing these interim results reinforces electrophysiologists' enthusiasm for this innovative technology." Pulsed Field Ablation (PFA) represents a new approach to treating atrial fibrillation (AFib), utilizing a controlled electric field to ablate cardiac tissue through a process called irreversible electroporation (IRE). Because the energy does not rely on thermal effects to ablate target cardiac tissue, IRE offers the potential to reduce the risk of esophageal, pulmonary vein and phrenic nerve injury. The inspIRE clinical trial conducted in Europe is a prospective, multicenter, nonrandomized study evaluating the safety and efficacy of the VARIPULSE Catheter and TRUPULSE Generator in treating symptomatic drug refractory recurrent paroxysmal AFib.1 It is the first clinical study for the PFA system with full electroanatomical mapping system integration. Across 13 centers, 226 patients were enrolled (wave I-40, wave II-186). There were no esophageal thermal lesions, pulmonary vein stenosis, or coronary spasm assessed in wave I cohort. In wave II, an independent Data Monitoring Committee declared early success after 186-patient enrollment and 60 patients completing 12-month follow-up. No primary adverse events were reported (0%). With 100% entrance block, pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) without acute reconnection was achieved in 97.1% of targeted veins. Primary efficacy was achieved in 70.9%, 12-month freedom from symptomatic AFib/atrial flutter/atrial tachycardia recurrence and repeat ablation was 78.9% and 92.3%, respectively.2 The VARIPULSE Catheter is Biosense Webster's investigational technology and is not yet approved by regulatory bodies in any market today. VARIPULSE is a steerable, multielectrode, catheter enabling cardiac electrophysiological mapping and ablation functionalities through the investigational TRUPULSE Generator. The investigational catheter uses PFA in treating symptomatic drug refractory recurrent paroxysmal (intermittent) AFib. It is designed to be used with the CARTO 3 System, enabling mapping integration to the application of PF energy. "PFA is the next frontier in AFib treatment and may have a variety of benefits, including a better safety profile than RF ablation, without sacrificing long term effectiveness," said Anthony Hong, Vice President, Preclinical and Clinical Research and Medical Affairs, Biosense Webster, Inc. "Biosense Webster is working to bring a versatile portfolio of PFA solutions complementary to our RF ablation catheter portfolio to address various ablation strategies in the treatment of AFib." In addition to the inspIRE clinical trial in Europe, Biosense Webster is conducting the admIRE clinical study in the United States to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of its investigational PFA system. About inspIRE The inspIRE clinical trial conducted in Europe is a prospective, multicenter, nonrandomized study evaluating the safety and efficacy of the VARIPULSE Catheter and TRUPULSE Generator in treating symptomatic drug refractory recurrent paroxysmal AFib.1 It is the first clinical study for the PFA system with full electroanatomical mapping system integration. About Biosense Webster Biosense Webster, Inc. is the global market leader in the science and technology behind the diagnosis and treatment of cardiac arrhythmias. Part of Johnson & Johnson MedTech, the specialized medical-technology company is headquartered in Irvine, California, and works across the world to advance the tools and solutions that help electrophysiologists identify, treat, and deliver care. Learn more at www.biosensewebster.com and connect on LinkedIn and Twitter. About Johnson & Johnson MedTechi At Johnson & Johnson MedTech,i we unleash diverse healthcare expertise, purposeful technology, and a passion for people to transform the future of medical intervention and empower everyone to live their best life possible. For more than a century, we have driven breakthrough scientific innovation to address unmet needs and reimagine health. In surgery, orthopaedics, vision, and interventional solutions, we continue to help save lives and create a future where healthcare solutions are smarter, less invasive, and more personalized. Cautions Concerning Forward-Looking Statements This press release contains "forward-looking statements" as defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 regarding the investigational VARIPULSE Pulse Field Ablation catheter and TRUPULSE Generator. 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 Biosense Webster, Inc., any of the other Johnson & Johnson MedTech Companies and/or Johnson & Johnson. Risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to: uncertainty of regulatory approvals; uncertainty of commercial success; challenges to patents; competition, including technological advances, new products and patents attained by competitors; product efficacy or safety concerns resulting in product recalls or regulatory action; changes to applicable laws and regulations, including global health care reforms; changes in behavior and spending patterns of purchasers of health care products and services; 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. Neither Biosense Webster, Inc., the Johnson & Johnson MedTech Companies nor Johnson & Johnson undertakes to update any forward-looking statement as a result of new information or future events or developments. Biosense Webster, Inc. 2023 239216-230203 i Johnson & Johnson MedTech comprises the surgery, orthopedics, vision and interventional solutions businesses within Johnson & Johnson's MedTech segment. ii Nemocnice na Homolce entered into a clinical trial agreement with Johnson & Johnson Medical NV/SA for their participation in the inspIRE Study. Dr. Reddy served as a study coinvestigator. Dr. Reddy was compensated for consultancy purposes for his Multielectrode IRE Catheter Program Study Advisory Committee membership. Dr. Reddy was not compensated for this authorship contributions. 1 ClinicalTrials.gov. A Study for Treatment of Paroxysmal Atrial Fibrillation (PAF) by Pulsed Field Ablation (PFA) System With Irreversible Electroporation (IRE) (inspire). https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04524364#contacts. Accessed January 11, 2023. 2 Reddy,Vivek., et al. Paroxysmal AF Ablation Using a Variable-Loop Pulsed Field Ablation Catheter Integrated with a 3D Mapping System: One-Year Outcomes from inspIRE [abstract]. In: AF Symposium.; February 24; Boston Media Contacts: Diane Pressman 908-295-0857 [email protected] Charlene DeBar 714-727-8677 [email protected] Investor Relations Contact: Sarah Wood 908-218-3560 [email protected] SOURCE Biosense Webster, Inc. An ongoing pilot project aims to evaluate the feasibility of implementing the Health Equity Report Card as a tool for improving the quality and equity of cancer care and continues the Elevating Cancer Equity collaboration from the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN), American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN), and National Minority Quality Forum (NMQF). PLYMOUTH MEETING, Pa., Feb. 4, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN)a not-for-profit alliance of leading cancer centers in the United Statesjoins the call to Close the Care Gap on World Cancer Day , a global awareness day organized by the Union of International Cancer Control (UICC) every February 4, by launching a new Health Equity Report Card ( HERC ) pilot program. This worldwide message acknowledges the many lives that are lost due to disparities in cancer outcomes. NCCN's work improving and facilitating quality, effective, equitable, and accessible cancer care so all patients can live better lives is ongoing around the world. Today's announcement explains more on how the HERC pilot program came about and what it is meant to achieve. The impact of structural and interpersonal racism is one of the major causes of disparities in cancer outcomes in the United States. According to the American Cancer Society's Cancer Facts and Figures 2023 , racial and ethnic disparities in the cancer burden largely reflect long-standing inequities in socioeconomic status and access to high-quality health care, which can be attributed to historical and persistent structural racism in the U.S. experienced by all people of color. To help address these issues, NCCN, ACS CAN, and NMQF launched the Elevating Cancer Equity initiative in 2020, featuring a working group chaired by Robert A. Winn, MD, Director of the Virginia Commonwealth University Massey Cancer Center, and Shonta Chambers, MSW, Executive Vice President of Health Equity and Community Engagement at the Patient Advocate Foundation. In early 2021, that group developed the HERC to recommend actionable practice changes which, if implemented, would help providers and healthcare organizations identify and address discriminatory behaviors and bias in care delivery, address social determinants of health, and overcome systemic barriers to optimal care. The 17 actionable practice changes from the HERC have been refined into an implementation plan including concrete metrics, sources of evidence, and a scoring methodology, all of which were vetted by oncology administrators and healthcare providers. In the first phase of a multi-phase pilot, five leading academic cancer centers are assessing the feasibility of implementing the HERC as a tool that can both meaningfully and feasibly measure and report on equitable care practices. Feedback through the pilot stages of implementation will be incorporated to ensure applicability across care settings and geographies. "Our hope is that the Health Equity Report Card will be able to serve as a roadmap for health care organizations working to improve their practice, a transparency tool for patients, and an assessment tool for payers and accreditation entities," said Robert W. Carlson, MD, Chief Executive Officer, NCCN. "Inequities in cancer outcomes across race and ethnicity have numerous contributing factors, including different levels of access to comprehensive insurance coverage, bias and discrimination in care delivery, and social determinants of health such as neighborhood and built environment, access to economic and educational opportunity, and food insecurity due to historic and ongoing structural discrimination. This accountability tool will be more than just a checklist exercise; we hope it will result in interventions that lead to meaningful, sustainable systems changes." "All people diagnosed with cancer deserve to get the best care possible regardless of income, race, ethnicity, gender identity, disability status, sexual orientation, age or geography," said Lisa Lacasse, President, ACS CAN. "Ensuring equity in cancer care is critical to reducing cancer disparities and ending cancer as we know it, for everyone. The Health Equity Report Card provides a tangible approach that can help achieve that goal." "Despite significant advancements in the detection and treatment of cancer in recent decades, minoritized communities continue to bear the high cancer burden," said Dr. Gary Puckrein, President and CEO of the National Minority Quality Forum. "Inequities in cancer care are the result of failure to consider the lives of black, brown, yellow, red, and poor people. If we're going to close systemic gaps in cancer care, we must re-imagine how we are approaching care delivery and realign systems to reduce patient risk. This tool is a step in the right direction to identify what system changes are needed to affect change." The HERC pilot program at academic cancer centers is supported by contributions from AbbVie Inc.; 2seventy bio; Genentech, Inc.; Lilly; and Sanofi Genzyme. A second pilot program in the community hospital setting is also in early stages, with support from GlaxoSmithKline LLC; Lilly; Merck Foundation; and Pfizer Inc. A peer-reviewed article with more information on the program will be publishing soon in JNCCNJournal of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network . Looking beyond race and ethnicity in the United States, research shows income, education, geographical location, and discrimination based on gender, sexual orientation, age, disability, and lifestyle are all factors that can negatively affect cancer care and outcomes. The burden of cancer in low- and middle-resource countries is particularly significant, currently accounting for approximately 75% percent of all cancer deaths worldwide, and is expected to continue to grow1. NCCN is involved in several global endeavors to address these disparities, including the adoption of inclusive language in clinical and patient guidelines, plus ongoing collaborations in: Learn more about free resources to help close the care gap worldwide at NCCN.org/global , and view the 17 actions from the Health Equity Report Card at NCCN.org/wcd . About the National Comprehensive Cancer Network The National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) is a not-for-profit alliance of leading cancer centers devoted to patient care, research, and education. NCCN is dedicated to improving and facilitating quality, effective, equitable, and accessible cancer care so all patients can live better lives. The NCCN Clinical Practice Guidelines in Oncology (NCCN Guidelines) provide transparent, evidence-based, expert consensus recommendations for cancer treatment, prevention, and supportive services; they are the recognized standard for clinical direction and policy in cancer management and the most thorough and frequently-updated clinical practice guidelines available in any area of medicine. The NCCN Guidelines for Patients provide expert cancer treatment information to inform and empower patients and caregivers, through support from the NCCN Foundation. NCCN also advances continuing education, global initiatives, policy, and research collaboration and publication in oncology. For more information visit NCCN.org . About ACS CAN The American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) makes cancer a top priority for policymakers at every level of government. ACS CAN engages volunteers across the country to make their voices heard to ensure that our cities, our states and our nation adopt evidence-based public policies that improve the lives of people with cancer and their families. We believe everyone should have a fair and just opportunity to prevent, detect, treat, and survive cancer. Since 2001, as the American Cancer Society's nonprofit, nonpartisan advocacy affiliate, ACS CAN has successfully advocated for billions of dollars in cancer research funding, expanded access to quality affordable health care, and advanced proven tobacco control measures. We stand with our volunteers, working to change public policy to end cancer as we know it, for everyone. Join the fight by visiting www.fightcancer.org . About National Minority Quality Forum The National Minority Quality Forum (NMQF) is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit research and advocacy organization based in Washington, DC. The mission of NMQF is to reduce patient risk by assuring optimal care for all. NMQF's vision is an American health services research, delivery and financing system whose operating principle is to reduce patient risk for amenable morbidity and mortality while improving quality of life. NMQF leads the Cancer Stage Shifting Initiative which is aligned with the White House Cancer Moonshot program to move us from late-stage to early-stage diagnosis and treatment of cancer, improving cancer care and reducing cancer deaths for all, with a particular focus on equity and underrepresented populations. For more information, please visit https://www.nmqf.org/. Media Contacts: Rachel Darwin, NCCN 267-622-6624 [email protected] Trista Hargrove, ACS CAN 202-998-2262 [email protected] 1 Prager GW, Braga S, Bystricky B, et al. Global cancer control: responding to the growing burden, rising costs and inequalities in access. 2018;3(2):e000285. Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/441768/NCCN_Logo.jpg SOURCE National Comprehensive Cancer Network NEW YORK, Feb. 3, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- WHY: Rosen Law Firm, a global investor rights law firm, reminds purchasers of the securities of Sunlight Financial Holdings Inc. f/k/a Spartan Acquisition Corp. II (NYSE: SUNL, SPRQ) between January 25, 2021 and September 28, 2022, both dates inclusive (the "Class Period"), of the important February 14, 2023 lead plaintiff deadline. SO WHAT: If you purchased Sunlight securities during the Class Period you may be entitled to compensation without payment of any out of pocket fees or costs through a contingency fee arrangement. WHAT TO DO NEXT: To join the Sunlight class action, go to https://rosenlegal.com/submit-form/?case_id=10554 or call Phillip Kim, Esq. toll-free at 866-767-3653 or email [email protected] or [email protected] for information on the class action. A class action lawsuit has already been filed. If you wish to serve as lead plaintiff, you must move the Court no later than February 14, 2023. A lead plaintiff is a representative party acting on behalf of other class members in directing the litigation. WHY ROSEN LAW: We encourage investors to select qualified counsel with a track record of success in leadership roles. Often, firms issuing notices do not have comparable experience, resources, or any meaningful peer recognition. Many of these firms do not actually handle securities class actions, but are merely middlemen that refer clients or partner with law firms that actually litigate the cases. Be wise in selecting counsel. The Rosen Law Firm represents investors throughout the globe, concentrating its practice in securities class actions and shareholder derivative litigation. Rosen Law Firm has achieved the largest ever securities class action settlement against a Chinese Company. Rosen Law Firm was Ranked No. 1 by ISS Securities Class Action Services for number of securities class action settlements in 2017. The firm has been ranked in the top 4 each year since 2013 and has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for investors. In 2019 alone the firm secured over $438 million for investors. In 2020, founding partner Laurence Rosen was named by law360 as a Titan of Plaintiffs' Bar. Many of the firm's attorneys have been recognized by Lawdragon and Super Lawyers. DETAILS OF THE CASE: According to the lawsuit, throughout the Class Period, defendants made false and/or misleading statements and/or failed to disclose that: (1) Sunlight lacked effective underwriting and risk evaluation with respect to its contractor advance program; (2) Sunlight lacked the oversight and periodic monitoring systems necessary to timely detect bad debt associated with its contractor advance program; (3) Sunlight lacked effective internal controls over accounting and reporting of non-cash advance receivables; (4) as a result, Sunlight would be forced to take a non-cash advance receivables impairment charge exceeding $30 million; and (5) as a result, defendants' statements about its business, operations, and prospects were materially false and misleading and/or lacked reasonable basis at all relevant times. When the true details entered the market, the lawsuit claims that investors suffered damages. To join the Sunlight class action, go to https://rosenlegal.com/submit-form/?case_id=10554 or call Phillip Kim, Esq. toll-free at 866-767-3653 or email [email protected] or [email protected] for information on the class action. No Class Has Been Certified. Until a class is certified, you are not represented by counsel unless you retain one. You may select counsel of your choice. You may also remain an absent class member and do nothing at this point. An investor's ability to share in any potential future recovery is not dependent upon serving as lead plaintiff. Follow us for updates on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-rosen-law-firm, on Twitter: https://twitter.com/rosen_firm or on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rosenlawfirm/. Attorney Advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Contact Information: Laurence Rosen, Esq. Phillip Kim, Esq. The Rosen Law Firm, P.A. 275 Madison Avenue, 40th Floor New York, NY 10016 Tel: (212) 686-1060 Toll Free: (866) 767-3653 Fax: (212) 202-3827 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] www.rosenlegal.com SOURCE Rosen Law Firm, P.A. NEW YORK, Feb. 4, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Faruqi & Faruqi, LLP, a leading national securities law firm, is investigating potential claims against Silvergate Capital Corporation ("Silvergate" or the "Company") (NYSE: SI) and reminds investors of the February 6, 2023 deadline to seek the role of lead plaintiff in a federal securities class action that has been filed against the Company. If you suffered losses exceeding $100,000 investing in (a) Silvergate Class A Common stock between November 11, 2020 and January 5, 2023, inclusive (the "Class Period"); (b) Silvergate Class A common stock pursuant and/or traceable to the Company's secondary public offering ("SPO") conducted on or around January 20, 2021 (the "January SPO"); and/or (c) Silvergate Class A common stock pursuant and/or traceable to the Company's SPO conducted on or around December 6, 2021 (the "December SPO," and together with the January SPO, the "Offerings") and would like to discuss your legal rights, call Faruqi & Faruqi partner Josh Wilson directly at 877-247-4292 or 212-983-9330 (Ext. 1310). You may also click here for additional information: www.faruqilaw.com/SI. There is no cost or obligation to you. Faruqi & Faruqi is a leading minority and Woman-owned national securities law firm with offices in New York, Pennsylvania, California and Georgia. The complaint filed in this class action alleges that throughout the Class Period, Defendants made materially false and/or misleading statements, as well as failed to disclose material adverse facts about the Company's business, operations, and prospects. Specifically, Defendants failed to disclose to investors: (1) that the Company's platform lacked sufficient controls and procedures to detect instances of money laundering; (2) that Silvergate's customers had engaged in money laundering in amounts exceeding $425 million; (3) that, as a result of the foregoing, the Company was reasonably likely to receive regulatory scrutiny and face damages, including penalties and reputational harm; and (4) that, as a result of the foregoing, Defendant's positive statements about the Company's business, operations, and prospects were materially misleading and/or lacked a reasonable basis. On November 15, 2022, Marcus Aurelius Research tweeted that "Recently subpoenaed Silvergate bank records reveal $425 million in transfers from $SI crypto bank accounts to South American money launderers. Affadavit from investigation into crypto crime ring linked to smugglers/drug traffickers." On this news, the Company's Class A common stock price fell $6.13, or 17%, to close at $29.36 per share on November 15, 2022, on unusually heavy trading volume. On November 17, 2022, The Bear Cave newsletter released an article about several companies with potential exposure to recently collapsed cryptocurrency exchange FTX, including Silvergate. The article highlighted the connection linking Silvergate to a money laundering operation that transferred $425 million off cryptocurrency trading platforms. On this news, the Company's Class A common stock price fell $3.00, or 10.7%, to close at $24.90 per share on November 18, 2022, on unusually heavy trading volume. Then, on January 4, 2023, the Company issued a press release announcing that it would release select financial metrics before market open on Thursday, January 5, 2023, and would then host a business update conference call at 8:00 a.m. Eastern Time. On January 5, 2023, before the domestic stock markets opened, Silvergate issued a press release in which, in pertinent part, it disclosed that total deposits from digital asset customers had declined to $3.8 billion as of December 31, 2022, compared to $11.9 billion as of September 30, 2022, a decline of roughly 68%. In the same release, Silvergate acknowledged that there was a "crisis of confidence" across the cryptocurrency or digital asset ecosystem. That same day, The Wall Street Journal released an article titled "Silvergate's Deposit Run is Worse Than Great Depression-Era Runs," in which it noted that bank runs from 1930-1933 averaged deposit declines of nearly 38%, and that only a few (9 out of a sample size of 67) had deposit declines exceeding 50%. It further noted that during the 2008 crisis, deposit losses were substantially smaller than the losses faced by Silvergate. On this news, the Company's Class A common stock fell more than $9 per share, from a closing price of $21.95 on January 4, 2023, to $12.57 on January 5, 2023 on unusually heavy volume, a drop of 42.73%. The court-appointed lead plaintiff is the investor with the largest financial interest in the relief sought by the class who is adequate and typical of class members who directs and oversees the litigation on behalf of the putative class. Any member of the putative class may move the Court to serve as lead plaintiff through counsel of their choice, or may choose to do nothing and remain an absent class member. Your ability to share in any recovery is not affected by the decision to serve as a lead plaintiff or not. Faruqi & Faruqi, LLP also encourages anyone with information regarding Silvergate's conduct to contact the firm, including whistleblowers, former employees, shareholders and others. Attorney Advertising. The law firm responsible for this advertisement is Faruqi & Faruqi, LLP (www.faruqilaw.com). Prior results do not guarantee or predict a similar outcome with respect to any future matter. We welcome the opportunity to discuss your particular case. All communications will be treated in a confidential manner. SOURCE Faruqi & Faruqi, LLP EVERETT, Wash., Feb. 3, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- On behalf of healthcare providers at Community Health Center of Snohomish County, the Union of American Physicians & Dentists (UAPD) filed a petition for union election on Tuesday, Jan. 31, 2023. The petition was filed with Region 19 of the National Labor Relations Board that will enable doctors, nurse practitioners and physician assistants to decide whether to form a union. The filing enables providers to hold a union election in the coming weeks. "These providers want a voice in improving the delivery of quality healthcare in Snohomish County because they are on the front lines of delivering that care," said Dr. Stuart Bussey, president of the UAPD. "Providers feel they are being shut out of those key decisions, and that is not good for the thousands of patients who rely on them." In response to hospitals and healthcare networks overworking their employees and making decisions on their behalf without consulting them, providers are moving to unionize. Forming a union gives providers a voice over their working conditions and find common ground with their employer to better serve their community. The union maintains offices in Federal Way, Washington, and represents providers at MultiCare Health's Auburn Medical Center and Indigo Urgent Care Clinics. About Union of American Physicians & Dentists The Union of American Physicians & Dentists (UAPD) has organized doctors and providers since 1972. With 5,000 members and growing in California, New Mexico, and the state of Washington, UAPD is the largest union of licensed doctors and advanced practice clinicians in the nation. Members work for state and county government, large healthcare organizations and nonprofit health systems, as well as providers in private practice. Learn more at www.uapd.com. Contact Information: Vivi Le Communications Manager Union of American Physicians & Dentists (714) 552-9841 [email protected] SOURCE Union of American Physicians and Dentists Increase in prevalence of urinary tract infections, a rising geriatric population, and rapid technological advancements drive the global urinary tract infection testing market. By test kit, the laboratory test kits segment would lead the market in 2031. PORTLAND, Ore., Feb. 4, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Allied Market Research published a report, titled, "Urinary Tract Infection Testing Market by Infection Type (Urethritis, Cystitis, Pyelonephritis), by Test Type (Urinalysis , Urine Cultures, Susceptibility Testing), by End User (Hospitals, Diagnostic Laboratories, Research Institutes), by Test Kit (Home Test Kits, Laboratory Test Kits): Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 2021- 2031" According to the report, the global urinary tract infection testing industry is estimated to generate $574 million in 2021 and $1 billion by 2031, witnessing a CAGR of 6.2% from 2022 to 2031. The report offers a detailed analysis of changing market trends, top segments, key investment pockets, value chain, regional landscape, and competitive scenario. Download Free Sample Report: https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/request-sample/31812 Drivers, Restraints, and Opportunities Increase in prevalence of urinary tract infections, a rising geriatric population, and rapid technological advancements fuel the growth of the global urinary tract infection testing market. However, errors such as false negative or false positive results in UTI testing may hinder the global market growth. On the other hand, the availability self-testing kits for UTI testing and the increasing prevalence of diabetes globally will present new growth opportunities for the global urinary tract infection testing market in the coming years. Covid-19 Scenario The COVID-19 pandemic moderately impacted the urinary tract infection testing market across the globe in the initial period of the pandemic on account of low hospitalization. Stringent lockdowns imposed by government across the world had a significant impact on the number of UTI tests conducted. Moreover, supply chain constraints, jammed logistics due to lockdowns, and other regulatory restrictions hampered the market growth. The market has recovered post the pandemic. The laboratory test kits segment to dominate during the forecast period Based on test kit, the laboratory test kits segment contributed to the largest share of three-fourths of the global urinary tract infection testing market in 2021, and is expected to maintain its leadership during the forecast period. Moreover, the same segment is projected to witness the fastest CAGR of 6.3% from 2022 to 2031. This is because laboratory test kits can produce accurate test results on a smartphone. In addition, patients can check if they are infection-free or not just by using laboratory UTI test kits. The cystitis segment to maintain a prominent revenue growth in 2031 Based on infection type, the cystitis segment held the largest share of more than half of the global urinary tract infection testing market in 2021, and is expected to maintain a prominent growth during the forecast period. Every year, around 10 out of every 100 women globally are diagnosed with cystitis. However, the pyelonephritis segment is expected to exhibit the highest CAGR of 6.5% in 2031, as pyelonephritis is one of the most commonly occurring diseases of the kidney. Purchase Inquiry: https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/purchase-enquiry/31812 The urinalysis segment to achieve a noteworthy growth during the forecast period Based on test type, the urinalysis segment held the largest share of more than two-fifths of the global urinary tract infection testing market in 2021 and is expected to dominate the market in 2031. The same segment is expected to exhibit the highest CAGR of 6.7% in 2031, owing to increased demand for the diagnosis of urinary tract infections, kidney issues, and diabetes from healthcare providers. The hospitals segment to garner the largest revenue during the forecast period Based on end user, the hospitals segment held the largest share of nearly half of the global urinary tract infection testing market in 2021 and is expected to lead the trail in 2031. This is owing to a rise in instances of hospital-acquired urinary tract infection. However, the diagnostic laboratories segment is expected to exhibit the highest CAGR of 6.8% in 2031. Laboratory diagnosis is based on colony counts following culture which reflect the concentration of organisms in urine. North America to garner the largest revenue by 2031 Based on region, the market in North America was the largest in 2021, accounting for two-fifths of the global urinary tract infection testing market, owing to the presence of major players and high spending on healthcare in this region. However, the market in Asia-Pacific is likely to dominate in terms of revenue and show the fastest CAGR of 7.4% during the forecast period, due to the increasing geriatric population in this region. Leading Market Players Thermo Fisher Scientific, Inc. Bio-Rad Laboratories Danaher Corporation ACON Laboratories Inc. Cardinal Health Inc. Stryker Corporation SYSMEX CORPORATION Abbott Laboratories Roche AG LabCorp (Laboratory Corporation of America Holdings) Trending Reports in Healthcare Industry (Book Now with 10% Discount): Urinary Tract Cancer Market by Cancer type (Bladder Cancer, Urethral cancer and Ureteric and Renal Pelvic Cancer), Treatment Type (Chemotherapy, and Immunotherapy), and Distribution Channel (Retail Pharmacy, and Online Pharmacy): Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 2021--2030 Telemedicine Market by Application (Teleradiology, Telepsychiatry, Telepathology, Teledermatology, Telecardiology and Other Applications), Component (Software, Hardware and Services), and End User (Healthcare Providers, Payers, Healthcare Consumers and Other End Users): Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 2021-2030 Allergy Diagnostics Market by Test Type (In Vivo, In Vitro), by Product & Service (Consumables, Instruments, Services), by Allergen (Inhaled Allergens, Food Allergens, Drug Allergens, Other Allergens), by End-user (Diagnostic Laboratories, Hospital-based Laboratories, Academic Research Institutes, Others): Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 2021-2031 Plasma Fractionation Market by Product (Albumin, Immunoglobulins, Coagulation factor VIII, and Coagulation factor IX) and Sector (Public Sector and Private Sector): Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 2020-2027 Digital Therapeutics Market by Product (Software and Devices), Sales Channel (Business-to-Business and Business-to-Consumers), Application (Diabetes, Obesity, Cardiovascular Disease (CVD), Central Nervous System (CNS), Disease Respiratory Disease, Smoking Cessation, Gastrointestinal Disorder (GID) and Others: Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 2022-2031 About Us Allied Market Research (AMR) is a full-service market research and business-consulting wing of Allied Analytics LLP based in Portland, Oregon. Allied Market Research provides global enterprises as well as medium and small businesses with unmatched quality of "Market Research Reports" and "Business Intelligence Solutions." AMR has a targeted view to provide business insights and consulting to assist its clients to make strategic business decisions and achieve sustainable growth in their respective market domain. We are in professional corporate relations with various companies and this helps us in digging out market data that helps us generate accurate research data tables and confirms utmost accuracy in our market forecasting. Allied Market Research CEO Pawan Kumar is instrumental in inspiring and encouraging everyone associated with the company to maintain high quality of data and help clients in every way possible to achieve success. Each and every data presented in the reports published by us is extracted through primary interviews with top officials from leading companies of domain concerned. Our secondary data procurement methodology includes deep online and offline research and discussion with knowledgeable professionals and analysts in the industry. Contact: David Correa 5933 NE Win Sivers Drive #205, Portland, OR 97220 United States USA/Canada (Toll Free): +1-800-792-5285, +1-503-894-6022 UK: +44-845-528-1300 Hong Kong: +852-301-84916 India (Pune): +91-20-66346060 Fax: +1(855)550-5975 [email protected] Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/636519/Allied_Market_Research_Logo.jpg SOURCE Allied Market Research Washington, Feb 4 : The administration of US President Joe Biden has announced an additional round of security assistance for Ukraine with a total value of $2.2 billion. The latest package was divided into two parts - $425 million through the Presidential Drawdown Authority, and $1.75 billion from the congressionally-approved Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative, Xinhua news agency reported, citing a statement from the Defense Department. What's particularly noticeable in the materiel are long-range rockets for High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems, or HIMARS missile launchers that the United States have provided for Ukraine. The new rockets are GPS-guided Ground-Launched Small Diameter Bombs (GLSDB) with a range of roughly 90 miles, more than doubling the 40-mile range that previous U.S.-provided HIMARS-compatible missiles have. The GLSDB's range, however, falls short compared to that of the Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS), which has long been sought by Ukraine but refused by the United States for fear of escalation of the Russia-Ukraine conflict. The ATACMS has a range of nearly 200 miles. The US government will contract with weapons manufacturers to provide the GLSDB, as well as two HAWK air defense firing units and unspecified "equipment to integrate Western air defense launchers, missiles, and radars with Ukraine's air defense systems". That means it will be months away from the actual delivery of these weapons. The US has committed more than $29.3 billion in security assistance for Ukraine since the Russia-Ukraine conflict broke out nearly a year ago, according to the Pentagon's statement. Kiev, Feb 4 : Ukraine and the European Union agreed to deepen their relations and cooperation at the 24th Ukraine-EU summit held in Kiev, according to a joint statement issued following the event. The statement by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, European Council President Charles Michel and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen was published by the Ukrainian presidential press service. According to the document, Ukraine and the EU on Friday reiterated their commitment to further deepening their relationship and promoting Ukraine's further integration with the bloc, Xinhua news agency reported. The parties also voiced their intention to fully exploit the potential of the Association Agreement, which entered into force on September 1, 2017, to establish conditions for enhanced economic and trade partnership. Kiev and Brussels will cooperate in the implementation of the Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Area to ease Ukraine's access to the EU's internal market, the statement said. Besides, the EU will consider Ukraine's request to extend the temporary preferential trade regime, which abolishes tariffs and quotas on Ukrainian industrial goods and foods, and will expire on June 5. The EU will support Zelensky's 10-point peace plan and the idea of a peace formula summit aiming at launching its implementation, the statement said. Ukraine welcomes the EU's commitment to continue providing political and military support as long as it takes, which includes military assistance of more than 3.6 billion euros under the European Peace Facility, and the launch of the EU Military Assistance Mission to train an initial 30,000 Ukrainian soldiers in 2023. The one-day Ukraine-EU summit was held in Kiev earlier in the day. In June 2022, EU leaders accepted Ukraine as a candidate for membership in the bloc. Helsinki, Feb 4 : Finland needs net immigration of up to 44,000 people annually to stabilise the size of the country's labour force, a report has said. The report published by the Research Institute of the Finnish Economy (Etla) on Friday examined the economic effects of work-based immigration, and how immigration can compensate for the effects of Finland's aging population, Xinhua news agency reported. Etla said that the level of immigration required to boost the workforce is almost three times the actual level predicted by Statistics Finland: around 15,000 people annually. Finland's working-age population began to decline at the turn of the 2010s, when the "baby boomer" generation moved into retirement. If the current low birth rate and the level of immigration forecast by Statistics Finland continue, the working-age population will drop by nearly 20 percent by 2070. Such a decrease in the labour force would result in a slowdown in the growth of the national economy, and affect the sustainability of the welfare state, Etla warned. "There is a lot of room for increasing the employment rate in Finland, but it is by no means enough to cover the future need for labour," said Tarmo Valkonen, research advisor at Etla. According to Etla's model calculations, with the required level of immigration the labour input would increase by almost 10 per cent by 2040, and approximately 40 per cent by 2070. Although the report points out that the impact of immigrants with low levels of education on the public economy is less positive than that of highly-educated people, low-skilled immigration is still beneficial to Finland's economy since it enables services to function and the general population to target better jobs that match their education. "As life expectancy rises, additional immigration would still not be enough to stop the population aging," Etla added. Brussels, Feb 4 : The North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) has called on Russia to respect its treaty with the US on nuclear weapons, which contributes to international stability. NATO ambassadors said in a statement that "we note with concern that Russia has failed to comply with legally-binding obligations under the New START Treaty", Xinhua news agency reported. The New Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty (New START) was signed by Russia and the US in 2010. The last remaining nuclear arms control treaty in force between the two nuclear superpowers can be extended by a maximum of five years with the consent of the two countries. Russia and the US officially extended the treaty by five years on February 3, 2021. The ambassadors said that Russia's refusal to hold consultations or to allow US inspections since last August "prevents the US from exercising important rights under the treaty, and undermines the US' ability to adequately verify Russian compliance with the treaty's central limits." "We call on Russia to fulfil its obligations under the treaty by facilitating New START inspections on Russian territory, and by returning to participation in the treaty's implementation body," NATO said. Earlier this week, Moscow accused the United States of undermining the principles of implementing the treaty. Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova said that Moscow remains committed to the treaty but does not see the same commitment from Washington. Washington, Feb 4 : The US remains committed to using the full range of its military capabilities, including nuclear, to defend South Korea, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said, as people in South Korea are beginning to question the need for their country to consider its own nuclear armament. The top US diplomat reiterated that there should be no doubt about such US commitment, Yonhap news agency reported. "We are committed to defending the Republic of Korea using the full range of our capabilities -- nuclear, conventional missile defense capabilities," Blinken told a joint press conference with South Korean Foreign Minister Park Jin following their bilateral talks here. "So there should be no doubt in anyone's mind, starting with Pyongyang, of our commitment to defend our allies, our partners, our friends, and to extended deterrence," he added. Extended deterrence refers to the US commitment to use all its military capabilities to defend South Korea when necessary. Some in South Korea have begun to question the possibility, as well as the willingness, of the US providing such capabilities in a timely manner amid evolving North Korean nuclear capabilities. Pyongyang conducted more than 90 missile tests in 2022 alone, while firing 69 ballistic missiles that marked a new record for ballistic missiles launched in a single year. Its previous annual record was 25. "Today, we reaffirmed our commitment to improving our allied defense against common threats, as well as our commitment to defending the Republic of Korea, using the full range of U.S. capabilities, including nuclear, conventional and missile defence capabilities," said Blinken, referring to South Korea by its official name. The top US diplomat added the alliance "is the linchpin of peace, stability and prosperity in the region, and is poised to grow stronger still". Park stressed the importance of efforts to denuclearise the Korean Peninsula. "Secretary Blinken and I also reaffirmed our unwavering determination to denuclearize North Korea," Park said of his talks with his US counterpart. "This is at the forefront and centre of our joint efforts to establish sustainable peace on the Korean Peninsula. Peace without denuclearisation is fake peace." Seoul and Washington have said the North may conduct what will be its seventh nuclear test "at any time." North Korea conducted its sixth and last nuclear test in September 2017. Park said the allies will work to "close loopholes" in UN Security Council resolutions on North Korea and cut off Pyongyang's unlawful revenue streams by countering its illicit cyber activities. "North Korea's nuclear and missile programs are a direct and serious threat to not only Korea but also international peace and security," Park told the joint press conference. The air forces of South Korea and the United States carry out a joint drill over the Yellow Sea on Feb. 1, 2023.(Yonhap/IANS) Image Source: IANS News Seoul, Feb 4 : A team of elite South Korean Air Force rescuers conducted cold-weather drills in a central county earlier this week to practice locating and lifting a pilot in distress out of icy waters, highlighting their rallying cry: "We will rescue you without fail", officials said Saturday. Some 40 personnel from the Special Air Rescue Team (SART) of the 6th Search & Rescue Air Group joined the drills at a reservoir in Jincheon, 91 km southeast of Seoul, on Friday, reports Yonhap News Agency. They mobilised HH-32, HH-47 and HH-60 choppers. The focus of the training was the speed at which the pilot is lifted from waters in sub-zero temperatures, the armed service said, as one can survive for around 15 minutes in such freezing temperatures. From each chopper, several well-trained rescuers jumped into the frigid waters to search for and rescue the pilot in the reservoir. During the training, they used various pieces of equipment, including a hoist and a stretcher. Their mission ended with a set of emergency procedures, such as checking the rescued pilot's health conditions and sending the pilot to a nearby military hospital. "As we have the slogan, 'We will rescue you without fail', I want to give the pilot and other comrades the conviction that we will come to their rescue," a member of the rescue team was quoted as saying in a statement. To become a SART member, one should go through a one-year training program to conduct various special missions, including airborne and underwater infiltrations, as well as emergency medical procedures. The SART members engage in various peacetime missions as well, such as rescuing people from an aviation accident and supporting disaster relief operations. Bengaluru, Feb 4 : In an incident resembling Hollywood movie 'Orphan', an adopted son set ablaze his mother and gave life threats to his father in Bengaluru, police said on Saturday. He has been arrested. The accused has been identified as Uttam Kumar. According to police, Manjunath and his wife did not have children and adopted the accused. However, Uttam Kumar disrespected his parents and developed hatred towards them. The police stated that he torched his adoptive mother in 2018. He was jailed after the incident and after being released, he gave life threats to his father. Father Manjunath ownes five houses and the accused wanted his father to allow him to take the rent money. When Manjunath refused, he resorted to life threats. The police also stated that the accused went to the tenant and threatened him with a weapon so that he pays the rent only to him. When police went to arrest him, a high-tension drama ensued. Sadashivanagar police have arrested him and further investigation is underway. Talinn, Feb 4 : Regional security was high on the agenda during talks between the Prime Ministers of the three Baltic nations of Latvia, Lithuania and Estonia. Latvian Prime Minister Krisjanis Karins said at a news conference after the meeting here on Friday that all possible support should be provided to Ukraine in the long run, adding that Latvia's donations to Ukraine have now reached 1 per cent of its GDP, reports Xinhua news agency. Karins added that he expects the NATO summit in Vilnius, Lithuania, this summer to produce decisions that will further boost Baltic security and defence. Latvia has already taken significant action to end its dependency on Russian energy imports, but more investment and work is needed for the country to develop its own energy infrastructure. In a tweet later, Karins said: "Our strength is our unity. The Russia's war is still ongoing and we will need our unity in the long run to help Ukraine, strengthen our economies and defence. In all areas we are closely working with our NATO and EU allies." The three Prime Ministers also discussed the ongoing work on the Rail Baltica project and current EU affairs. On her part, Lithuanian Prime Minister Ingrida Simonyte said: "Productive meeting in Talinn, focused on support for Ukraine, priorities for the 2023 NATO summit in Vilnius, energy security. Almost a year after a full-scale Russian invasion, Ukraine has endured heroically, though at tragic cost. Our increased and speedy help to Ukraine is crucial." Saying that she had a "good discussion" with her counterparts, Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas said: "Russia's crime of aggression must be punished. There can be neither impunity nor immunity for this ultimate international crime. Russia's crime of aggression needs to be tried before international court. "We are committed to securing even better connections between each other and advancing cooperation in energy security. I look forward to continuing our discussions in May 2." Jammu, Feb 4 : The Jammu and Kashmir government has passed clear orders to all deputy commissioners in the Kashmir Division to monitor the return of Kashmiri Pandit families, Prime Minister Package employees and anti-encroachment drive. At a top level meeting headed by the union territory's chief secretary, Arun Kumar Mehta, which was attended by all deputy commissioners and district SSPs, it was decided that deputy commissioners of Kashmir Division will monitor and maintain a data about return of Kashmiri Pandit families and PM Package employees within their respective districts. The same order said all the deputy commissioners and district superintendents of police in Kashmir Division will ensure all cooperation to returning employees/migrants in the valley besides ensuring safety and security during their stay in the valley. With regards to the Prime Minister Package employees agitating for the relocation out of the valley in the wake of last year's terror attacks on members of minority community, it was decided that all concerned Secretaries/DCs of Kashmir Division will ensure immediate release of salary of the current month on resumption of duties in the valley by the PM Package Employees, and pending salary after settlement of absence period by granting leave as due. In another significant decision it was said that encroachments on state land and grazing land should be removed in accordance with explicit directions. "For any adverse court order/stay in this regard, the concerned officer/official/counsel appearing (failing to appear) would be held accountable and removed with immediate effect." In order to protect the poor and underprivileged members of the society, the Jammu and Kashmir government is likely to issue directions so that residential houses built on very small pieces of land would not be demolished during the anti-encroachment campaign. San Francisco, Feb 4 : Chip-maker Nvidia has released an update to fix a recently discovered issue where Discord being open in the background slowed down the performance of some Nvidia graphics cards. In a tweet early Saturday, Nvidia said: "GeForce users can now download an app profile update for Discord. This resolves a recent issue where some GeForce GPUs memory clocks did not reach full speed w/ Discord running in the background." The company also mentioned that the update will automatically download to users' PC the next time they log into Windows. Several users asked their queries on Nvidia's post. When one user asked, "Windows update or Driver update?" "Neither. It is an application profile update used by the NVIDIA driver," the chip-maker replied. Earlier this week, it was reported that Discord was slowing down graphics card memory clocks on some Nvidia graphics cards. There was a bug in the latest Discord update that slowed down memory clocks by up to 200MHz on some Nvidia GPUs, including the RTX 3080 and RTX 3060 Ti. Kiev, Feb 4 : Amid Russia's ongoing war against Kiev, Ukraine and the European Union (EU) have agreed to deepen bilateral relations and cooperation during a joint summit held here. Following the 24th Ukraine-EU summit on Friday, a joint statement quoting President Volodymyr Zelensky, European Council President Charles Michel and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen was published by the Ukrainian presidential press service, reports Xinhua news agency. According to the statement, Ukraine and the EU reiterated their commitment to further deepening their relationship and promoting Ukraine's further integration with the bloc. The parties also voiced their intention to fully exploit the potential of the Association Agreement, which entered into force on September 1, 2017, to establish conditions for enhanced economic and trade partnership. Kiev and Brussels will cooperate in the implementation of the Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Area to ease Ukraine's access to the EU's internal market, the statement said. Besides, the EU will consider Ukraine's request to extend the temporary preferential trade regime, which abolishes tariffs and quotas on Ukrainian industrial goods and foods, and will expire on June 5. The EU will support Zelensky's 10-point peace plan and the idea of a peace formula summit aiming at launching its implementation, the statement said. Ukraine welcomes the EU's commitment to continue providing political and military support as long as it takes, which includes military assistance of more than 3.6 billion euros under the European Peace Facility, and the launch of the EU Military Assistance Mission to train an initial 30,000 Ukrainian soldiers in 2023. In June 2022, EU leaders accepted Ukraine as a candidate for membership in the bloc. In his video address to the nation on Friday night, Zelensky said asserted that there was a consensus between Ukraine and its partners in regards to the beginning of negotiations on Kiev's membership in 2023. "We spoke and are speaking now as members of the European community. And we are working to have this recognised legally. There is an understanding that it is possible to start negotiations on Ukraine's membership in the EU this year. "The partners also understand that this year, as last year, we have to continuously strengthen the defence support of our country and the pressure on Russia, in particular the sanctions pressure," he added. In a series of tweets after the meeting, the European Council President Michel said: "The Ukrainian people have made a clear choice for freedom, democracy, and rule of law. And we in the EU have also made a clear decision. "Your future is with us. Your destiny is our destiny. That's why we are here today. Standing by your side. "The European Union will support you in every way we can. For as long as it takes. We are family." Also taking to Twitter, von der Leyen said: "While Ukrainians are fighting to defend our common values, we support your economic security. To date, our EU support amounts to 50 billion euros. We are with you on this for the long haul. "We must continue to deprive Russia of the means to wage war against Ukraine. EU's import ban on Russian petroleum products comes into force on Sunday. "With the G7 we are putting price caps on these products, cutting Russia's revenue while ensuring stable global energy markets. "Ukraine is a true inspiration for Europe. We will support your fast recovery and your reconstruction. And we will make Russia pay for the brutal destruction it is causing." New Delhi, Feb 4 : A Delhi Court on Saturday discharged former Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) student Sharjeel Imam and co-accused Asif Iqbal Tanha in a case related to the incidents of violence at Jamia Milia Islamia University in December, 2019. The violence had erupted after a clash between Police and people protesting against the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA). Additional Sessions Judge of Saket court, Arul Verma passed the order. Both Imam and Tanha were charged under multiple Sections of the Indian Penal Code related to rioting and unlawful assembly. The court framed charges of unlawful assembly and rioting against one of the co-accused named Mohammed Iliyas. However, Imam, who is also an accused under Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) in the conspiracy case related to the 2020 North-East Delhi riots case, will remain in custody. A detailed order is awaited. Mumbai, Feb 4 : Dalljiet Kaur, ex-wife of Shalin Bhanot, recently got engaged to U.K-born Nikhil Patel, who is employed in a finance company. The pair exchanged rings in Nepal and are set to take the wedding vows this March. After her wedding with Nikhil, Dalljiet will move to London with her son Jaydon. Initially, Dalljiet will move with her kid to Kenya as Nikhil is placed there for work, but after a few years, the couple will move to London. The 'Kulvaddhu' actress also revealed how she and Nikhil met in Dubai at a common friend's party and connected with each other due to their love for children. The actress also revealed that she noticed blue nail paint on Nikhil's toes. When she asked him about it, he replied with an earnest: "I am a proud dad of two girls." Dalljiet said, quoted by News 18: "Romance wasn't in the air back then; it was just two single parents chatting. Love happened with time. It was our love for our children that connected us." She revealed that while Nikhil's younger daughter Anika lives with her mother in the U.S., the elder daughter Aariyana will live with the couple. Lisbon, Feb 4 : The Portuguese Parliament has approved the establishment of an inquiry commission to investigate TAP Air Portugal, the country's flag carrier, which has been involved in several complaints of irregularities in recent months. The investigation will aim "to assess the exercise of political supervision of TAP's management, in particular in the period between 2020 and 2022", when the airline returned to the control of Portugal's government, reports Xinhua news agency. According to the deputies' proposal, the entire "process of co-opting, appointing or hiring Alexandra Reis" as TAP administrator will be investigated, along with others involved in suspected undue payments of compensations and bonuses. Under the proposal approved by Parliament, the airline's management decisions "that may have harmed the company's interests and, therefore, the public interest" will also be investigated. In December 2022, Minister for Infrastructure and Housing Pedro Nuno Santos was dismissed shortly after the resignation of the Secretary of State for the Treasury, Alexandra Reis, who accepted compensation of 500,000 euros from TAP but continued to work for the government. Juba, Feb 4 : Some 151,256 South Sudanese refugees voluntarily returned home in 2022 amid the relative security situation in the country, the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) said. The UNHCR said 627,028 refugees have so far returned home since the signing of the revitalised peace deal in October 2018 to December 31, 2022, reports Xinhua news agency. "Some 6,845 South Sudanese refugee returnees have been reported in December 2022. This is a significant increase compared to the returns recorded in the month of November 2022," the UN agency said in its latest update on returns released in the South Sudanese capital of Juba. The UN agency said the increase in the number of refugees returning home is due to improved security in some parts of the country, enabling safe access to spontaneous refugee returns to South Sudan. The UNHCR, which conducted an in-depth household-level survey of returnees across the country on reasons for leaving their country of asylum, said 20 per cent of the returnees cited lack of access to basic services, 6 pe rcent cited lack of employment and livelihood opportunity, and 4 per cent cited insecurity. According to the survey, 12 per cent of those who have returned cited an improved security situation in South Sudan and reunion with family members, while 1 per cent cited checking and attending to property as the reasons for their returning home. UNHCR and partners, on a quarterly basis, collect information on refugee returns through key informant interviews, focus group discussions, and partner monitoring reports. There are more than two million refugees from South Sudan hosted in the East Africa region, and another 1.7 million displaced in the country, according to the UN agency. New Delhi, Feb 4 : The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) held a meeting to review the progress made by Social Sector Ministries in adopting the PM GatiShakti NMP. The Plan promotes a transformative and sustainable approach for transforming India's infrastructural landscape. Through integrated planning and synchronised project implementation across all concerned Ministries and state governments. A whole of the Government Approach is being adopted, for better decision-making, and planning of projects such as comprehensive mapping of schools, hospitals, services, public utilities, etc. Therefore, a need arose for Social Sector Ministries/Departments to adopt PM GatiShakti NMP for the utilisation of their assets, and holistic development across the country. Following this, two subsequent meetings were organised by the DPIIT to discuss the advantages of the Plan, integration of data layers, data quality, and challenges being faced by Ministries/Departments. Furthermore, two new Ministries -- Ayush and Skill Development -- have adopted the Plan. At the review meeting, the Special Secretary emphasized on the significance of adopting the NMP and the transformative role it can play in integrated planning and synchronized implementation of infrastructure and social sector projects/schemes. Use cases of adoption of PM GatiShakti in Uttar Pradesh for integration of Pahunch portal for the planning of schools with the NMP platform, optimization of planning of Anganwadi in Gujarat, 5G planning tool, and street furniture planning in Chandigarh were mentioned as case studies and best practices from States. The progress made by the onboarded Social Sector Ministries since the last meeting was well appreciated. Furthermore, imaginative and innovative use of the NMP platform in planning, implementation, and monitoring programs/schemes for greater accessibility and last-mile connectivity to healthcare centres, hospitals, schools, and Anganwadi were mentioned to enhance public welfare. The Social Sector Ministries/Departments were motivated to engage with States and aspirational districts to facilitate its wider adoption at a different level. During the Union Budget 2022-23 announcement, seven Saptarishi (priorities) were discussed among which, two were focused on inclusive development and last-mile connectivity. The usage of planning and decision-making tools, for suitable site selection for the Primitive Vulnerable Tribal Group (PVTG) scheme as well as the Eklavya Model Residential Schools, was mentioned for the Ministry of Tribal Affairs. The Social Sector Ministries individually apprised and deliberated on the progress made, the number of data layers integrated, the development of planning and decision-making tools, and challenges faced. The meeting saw fruitful deliberations from all the participants. New Delhi, Feb 4 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate India Energy Week (IEW) 2023, dedicate HAL helicopter factory to the nation and also lay the foundation stones for various development initiatives during his upcoming visit to poll-bound Karnataka on February 6. The Prime Minister will inaugurate the IEW, 2023 in Bengaluru. Being held from February 6-8, it is aimed to showcase country's rising prowess as an energy transition powerhouse. The event will bring together leaders from the traditional and non-traditional energy industry, governments, and academia to discuss the challenges and opportunities that a responsible energy transition presents. In line with the ethanol blending roadmap, the Prime Minister will launch E20 fuel at 84 retail outlets of Oil Marketing Companies in 11 States/UTs. E20 is a blend of 20 per cent ethanol with petrol. The government aims to achieve a complete 20 per cent blending of ethanol by 2025, and oil marketing companies are setting up 2G-3G ethanol plants that will facilitate the progress. The Prime Minister will also flag off the Green Mobility Rally. The rally will witness participation of vehicles running on green energy sources and will help create public awareness for the green fuels. The Prime Minister will launch the uniforms under the 'Unbottled' initiative of Indian Oil. Guided by the vision of the Prime Minister to phase out single-use plastic, IndianOil has adopted uniforms for retail customer attendants and LPG delivery personnel made from recycled polyester (rPET) & cotton. The Prime Minister will also dedicate the twin-cooktop model of the IndianOil's Indoor Solar Cooking System and flag-off its commercial roll-out. IndianOil had earlier developed an innovative and patented Indoor Solar Cooking System with a single cooktop. On the basis of feedback received, a twin-cooktop Indoor Solar Cooking system has been designed offering more flexibility and ease to the users. In yet another step towards 'Aatmanirbharta' in the defence sector, the Prime Minister will dedicate to the nation the HAL Helicopter Factory in Tumakuru. Its foundation stone was also laid by the Prime Minister in 2016. It is a dedicated new greenfield helicopter factory which will enhance capacity and ecosystem to build helicopters. This helicopter factory is Asia's largest helicopter manufacturing facility and will initially produce the Light Utility Helicopters (LUH). LUH is an indigenously designed and developed 3-tonne class, single engine multipurpose utility helicopter with unique feature of high manoeuvrability. The factory will be expanded to manufacture other helicopters such as Light Combat Helicopter (LCH) and Indian Multirole Helicopter (IMRH) as well as for repair and overhaul of LCH, LUH, Civil ALH and IMRH in the future. The factory also has the potential for exporting the Civil LUHs in future. The Prime Minister will lay the foundation stone of Tumakuru Industrial Township. Under the National Industrial Corridor Development Programme, development of the Industrial Township spread across 8,484 acre in three phases in Tumakuru has been taken up as part of Chennai Bengaluru Industrial Corridor. Budapest, Feb 4 : The Budapest Airport said on that it has recovered 75 per cent of its pre-pandemic passenger traffic, handling 12.2 million passengers in 2022. This was a 164 per cent increase from 2021, Xinhua news agency quoted an official statement by the airport as saying. The past year has been "extremely challenging, yet very successful", the airport in the Hungarian capital said, with the addition of new destinations to its schedule. Last year, the airport processed 194,000 tonnes of air cargo, up from 183,362 tonnes in 2021, which set "unprecedented records". In 2022, Budapest Airport had flights to a total of 140 destinations. Santiago, Feb 4 : At least five people died in Chile due to raging forest fires, which have consumed at least 8,333 hectares of land, official sources said. Interior Minister Carolina Toha told reporters that four people had died in the commune of Santa Juana in the Biobio region, one of the areas most affected by the fires some 550 km south of the capital Santiago, reports Xinhua news agency. They were either overtaken by the fire and burned or had an accident when they tried escaping the fire, she said. The fifth fatality was a firefighter who died while fighting the Santa Juana blaze, Chile's Fire Department tweeted. Toha said that there are currently 151 active fires, with 65 under control and 39 being combatted. On Friday, President Gabriel Boric imposed a state of emergency in the Biobio and Nuble regions. Kochi, Feb 4 : Malayalam actor Baburaj was arrested on Saturday in a cheating case filed against him at the Adimali Police Station in Idukki district on Saturday. Baburaj, who owned a resort in Idukki district, had given it for lease to a person called Arun after taking Rs 40 lakhs in 2020. Soon, the Covid pandemic hit and after the restrictions were lifted and when Arun opened the resort, he had some technical issues. Later, it was found out that there was a problem in the title of some areas of the property, which according to the complainant was hidden from him. When Arun asked for a refund, he was refused following which he filed a complaint. Recently, Baburaj was called by the police for questioning and the Kerala High Court had asked him to appear before the police on Saturday. After recording his arrest, the police took him to a state-run hospital to complete the formalities of arrest. The hugely popular actor is a very busy actor in Malayalam and has hugely popular hits to his credit which includes "Salt N Pepper, Mayamohini, Honey Bee" to name a few. Starting his career as a villain, he has graduated to a character actor and is also known for handling comedy roles. Meanwhile, Baburaj is expected to get bail in the case, when he is produced in a court later in the day. New Delhi, Feb 4 : On World Cancer Day, World Health Organization (WHO) has called for intensified action across the Southeast Asian region to strengthen health systems to prevent and detect cancers early. Cancer is the second leading cause of death globally, accounting for an estimated 9.9 million fatalities in 2020. World Cancer Day is observed annually on February 4 to raise awareness of cancer and to encourage its prevention, detection, and treatment. Between 2010 and 2019, global cancer incidence increased by 26 per cent, alongside a 21 per cent increase in deaths. An estimated one third of cancer deaths globally are due to tobacco use, high body mass index, alcohol use, low fruit and vegetable intake, and lack of physical activity. The WHO called for collective action to provide prompt treatment referral, to enhance access to palliative care, and to close the gap in access to quality cancer services -- the theme of this year's commemoration. In the WHO Southeast Asia region, an estimated 2.3 million people developed cancer in 2020, and 1.4 million died of the disease. Cancer is estimated to account for more than 20 per cent of premature mortality from non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in the region, which stand at around 4.7 million deaths every year. In 2020, cancer of the lungs, breast and cervix accounted for 4,00,000 of the total number of cancer-related deaths in the region, and almost two-thirds of people diagnosed with cancer succumbed to the disease, highlighting the urgent need for improved early diagnosis and treatment. WHO Regional Director for Southeast Asia, Poonam Khetrapal Singh, said that since 2014, the region has accelerated action to prevent, detect, treat and control cancer, with increased focus on eliminating cervical cancer as a public health problem. "Eight countries of the Region now have in place population-based cancer registries (PCBRs), and three countries -- Myanmar, Nepal and Sri Lanka -- are focus countries for addressing childhood cancer. Ten of the region's 11 member states provide tertiary care services for cancer diagnosis and treatment - including surgical and chemotherapy services - and nine also offer radiotherapy services," she said. "WHO continues to support countries of the Region to implement its new Regional Action Plan on Oral Health 2022-2030, including oral cancers, which in 2020 were among the top five most common cancers, accounting for 7.4 per cent of new cancers. Five countries of the region -- Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Sri Lanka and Thailand -- now have in place national cancer control plans, which Maldives and Nepal are in the process of finalizing. The Region is currently on track to achieve the WHO NCD Global Action Plan target of a 30 per cent relative reduction in tobacco use prevalence between 2010 and 2025." Singh further added that on cervical cancer, the region is achieving rapid, life-saving progress. Bhutan, Maldives, Myanmar, Sri Lanka and Thailand have introduced nation-wide HPV vaccination, which Bangladesh, India and Timor-Leste are also set to launch. Indonesia has introduced HPV vaccination in several provinces, covering tens of millions of girls. New evidence shows that a single dose of HPV vaccine delivers protection comparable to the 2-dose schedule, which alongside additional cost reductions, should enable countries to reach every woman and girl. Talking about accelerating the progress to close the care gap, Singh pointed out several priorities for the region like introducing and expanding HPV vaccination in routine immunization to prevent cervical cancer. Secondly, she opined increasing capacity at the primary health care (PHC) level to detect cancers early with a focus on intensified health workforce training. Third, rapidly, and systematically, advancing the capacity of tertiary care facilities to provide comprehensive diagnostic and treatment services that is critical to reduce cancer mortality. Fourth, to include the cancer services in risk pooling or pre-payment schemes and health benefit packages. "In the last two decades, the world has made significant progress in the science of cancer control. However, much more work is needed to close the care gap, improve cancer survival, and accelerate towards the NCD 2025 and Sustainable Development Goal targets 2030," she added. -- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text Thiruvananthapuram, Feb 4 : In a major move, the Congress in Kerala on Saturday announced that they will no longer call for hartals (shutdown) in the state. Kerala Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) Sudhakaran was responding to a question whether his party will call for a day-long shutdown in the state to protest the Rs 2 cess on petrol and diesel imposed in the budget announced on Friday by Finance Minister K.N.Balagopal. "Even without hartals, protests can be registered. From now on, our party will not call for hartals," he said. "We are now going to go forward organising massive protests across the state against the state budget and we will not call hartals again," added Sudhakaran. Incidentally, shut downs in Kerala are the biggest weapon used by political parties. When a bandh call is given by practically any political party, the state comes to a standstill and public vehicles and shops fail to do business. And this is a phenomenon limited to just Kerala as in the past when nationwide protests are called, barring Kerala, in the rest of the place normal life is rarely disrupted. One of the reasons why the Congress has decided against hartals is the Kerala High Court's order ast month directing attaching assests of the Popular Front of India activists. The PFI members were arrested for going on a rampage on September 23 in a flash shutdown called by them after the Centre banned them. The Court, after it was told that a damage of Rs 5.20 crore was caused, directed that bail should not be given if the damages are not recovered and if they do not pay up, their assets should be attached. The government has now informed the court the attachment has been done and is now wafting further orders from the court. Kabul, Feb 4 : Two people were killed and three others injured in an avalanche that hit a village in Raghistan district of Afghanistan's Badakhshan province, an official said on Saturday. The avalanche took place in Sar Asyab area late Friday following a snowfall, Xinhua news agency reported. The official said that the two victims, including a woman, were killed on the spot. An extreme chilly weather and snowfall swept through parts of Afghanistan since the first week of January as temperatures plunged to minus 30 degrees Celsius in some areas. According to officials, more than 170 people have died due to the extreme cold. New Delhi, Feb 4 : Through the first Saptarishi budget of "Amrit Kal," the BJP aims to gather the support of voters from all sections of the society. This is the reason why Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman while presenting the budget on February 1, tried to provide benefits to the country's rural population, tribes, farmers, women, middle class, senior citizens, MSMEs, traders, youth, cooperatives etc, along with special focus on health, education and skills among others. Along with the government, the party started a mega campaign on February 1, under the chairmanship of party president JP Nadda, at the organisational level to inform the people of the budget's merits, which will run till February 12. In the mega campaign, from February 4 to February 12, the saffron party has developed a strategy to deploy its Central ministers across the country who will hold press conferences in more than 50 cities and interact with the public on the merits of the budget. During the campaign, the Chief Ministers and the Deputy Chief Ministers of the BJP ruled states and the leader of opposition or any other senior leader in the states where there is no BJP government will inform the people about the budget through a press conference or seminar. On Friday, Sitharaman briefed the party MPs about the merits of the budget and the points that the MPs should highlight among the public and reach people in their parliamentary constituencies through the local media. These points have to be publicised during the Parliament session and the allegations of the opposition parties have to be countered both inside and outside the Parliament. In this budget workshop held by Sitharaman, MPs from both the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha were present. Describing the budget as one that gives priority to the deprived, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had said that this first budget of Amrit Kal would build a strong foundation to fulfil the grand vision of a developed India. Describing it as a historic budget, Modi had said that the budget would fulfil the dreams of every citizen, including the poor, farmers and the middle class. The BJP believes that voters can be wooed through this campaign and the party has launched it vigorously in the Tripura Assembly election campaign from Friday itself. They are also expected to do so in the election campaigns in Meghalaya and Nagaland. Assembly elections are to be held in Tripura on February 16 and in Meghalaya and Nagaland on February 27. Apart from these three states, Assembly elections are to be held in 6 other states -- Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Rajasthan, Karnataka, Telangana and Mizoram -- this year. BJP strategists believe that this first budget of Amrit Kal has something or the other for the people from all sections of the country. In this budget, important announcements were made for everyone which is being conveyed to the people in simple and easy language. Strategists believe that the saffron party will benefit from this in the Assembly elections and in the 2024 Lok Sabha polls. New Delhi, Feb 4 : A man, who was acquitted by the Supreme Court in the 2012 Chhawla gang-rape and murder case, was arrested along with his associate for allegedly killing an auto-rickshaw driver in Dwarka, here, said a police official on Saturday. The accused Vinod and his associate Pawan were arrested for stabbing Anar Singh (44), autorickshaw driver and a resident of Munirka, to death in Dwarka's Sector-13 area early on January 26. "Anar was declared brought dead at the hospital and he had a stab injury on his neck. During investigation, both the accused were nabbed," said the senior police official. On interrogation, it was revealed that after boarding the auto-rickshaw, the accused tried to rob the driver upon reaching Dwarka. When the driver resisted, they stabbed him and fled from the spot. Vinod recently came out of jail where he was lodged for around 10 years in connection with gang-rape and murder of a 19-year-old woman in Delhi's Chhawla area. Around three months ago, the Supreme Court had acquitted three men who were sentenced to death for the crime, saying that the prosecution failed to prove the charges. The 19-year-old girl's mutilated body was found three days after she was abducted. The woman worked in the Cyber City area in Gurugram and belonged to Uttarakhand. Kolkata, Feb 4 : A man was arrested at the Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport in Kolkata for carrying four bullets in his hand baggage. The arrest took place late Friday night during routine checking while the man, identified as Mohammad Ghalib, was attempting to board a Bengaluru-bound Air Asia flight, airport sources said on Saturday. The sources said that the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) personnel responsible for hand luggage checking and frisking of the passengers before boarding noticed that Galib was quite restless while awaiting his turn in the queue. After thorough checking of his hand luggage, the CISF personnel detected the four bullets and immediately detained Ghalib. Upon interrogation, he revealed that he was going to visit a relative in Bengaluru but was unable to give a satisfactory reply as to why he was carrying the bullets. He also did not have any document related to legal possession of the items. The CISF personnel then handed him over to the local police station. The police are now trying to cross-check whether Ghalib had any past criminal history. Rajkot : , Feb 4 (IANS) Umiyadham Sidsar, a section of Patidar community, has pledged its support to Oreva Group's Managing Director Jaysukh Patel in the Morbi bridge collapse case. Jaysukh Patel is the prime accused in the Morbi suspension bridge collapse accident, in which 132 persons, including 35 children had lost their lives. Police in its charge sheet, filed before a court on January 27 had named him as prime accused. Patel surrendered before the court on January 31, and was sent to judicial custody. On Wednesday, the First Class Judicial Magistrate court granted his police remand till February 8. On February 4, The Umiya Sidsar trustees issued an open letter addressing the community members defending Jaysukh Patel. According to the appeal, "Jaysukh Patel is a 'Bhamasa', who had taken up the suspension bridge repair work as a social responsibility. He did not have any commercial interest and knew that he was not going to recover the full cost incurred in repairs work." The appeal further states, if such people, who have only worked for society's development are harassed, no entrepreneur will come forward for social cause. Former BJP MLA Bavanji Metaliya has extended his support to Jaysukh Patel accusing the social media of portraying him in a bad light. "I stand with Umiya Sidsar trusts' decision to extend support to Jaysukh Patel. Let the law take its own course, but we condemn all comments made on social media against Jaysukhbhai. To protect the Morbi's heritage, he had taken the responsibility of bridge repair work." Mumbai, Feb 4 : Actor Babil Khan, who made his screen debut with the streaming film 'Qala' is attending an acting workshop by veteran theatre director and acting teacher Prasanna. Prasanna is one of the most revered personalities of the Indian theatre circle. He has taught at National School of Drama (NSD), and had also mentored Babil's father, the legendary Irrfan Khan during his NSD days. A source said: "Babil is excited to attend this workshop and totally immerse himself in Prasanna's process. The workshop is unlike any other in the country, one that teaches the Indian method of acting and is accessible to working actors from all backgrounds. This will certainly be an enriching experience for Babil." Babil has reached Mysore where he will attend the acting workshop at Prasanna's academy Acting Shastra from February 1 through February 7. Seoul, Feb 4 : Bereaved families of the victims of the Itaewon crowd crush clashed with police in central Seoul on Saturday as they took to the streets one day before the 100th day of the tragedy and installed a memorial altar in a public square without approval from authorities. About 1,000 people, including about 150 family members, began to march from a memorial altar at Noksapyeong Station, near the site of the Oct. 29 accident that killed 159 people during Halloween festivities, at around 11 a.m., to Sejongno Street, where they were to hold a memorial rally for the victims, Yonhap News Agency reported. They had initially planned to hold the event at nearby Gwanghwamun Square and set up the memorial altar there. But the city government rejected the requests, and the police agency dispatched about 3,000 personnel near Gwanghwamun Square. In the middle of the march, the families and participants abruptly set up a temporary memorial facility at Seoul Plaza in front of City Hall, located on Sejongno Street. Police briefly clashed with them while trying to block the installation. After police officers stepped back in the face of their resistance, about 70 Seoul city officials attempted remove the facility but also failed. During the confrontation, a bereaved family member lost consciousness and was taken to a nearby hospital, witnesses said. They finally set up the altar at around 2.10 p.m. and then began the memorial event, with about 5,000 participants occupying four of the six lanes of the road. The families wore a red scarf symbolizing the grief of losing loved ones and a badge where four stars are carved to represent the victims, their families, survivors and rescuers. A 51-year-old rallier, Lee Jeong-nyeo, said she joined the rally with her 11-year-old son over frustrations that the National Assembly has not done enough to uncover the truth of the accident. Last month, the assembly wrapped up a 55-day parliamentary probe into the case amid criticism it fell short of expectations and was used as a tool for political fighting. "We express deep regret toward the police and the Seoul metropolitan government for trying to block the voices of the bereaved families rather than remembering and commemorating the victims," a local civic group, Lawyers for a Democratic Society, also known as Minbyun, said in a statement. Rep. Lee Jae-myung, the leader of the main opposition Democratic Party, and other opposition lawmakers also joined the rally. "The responsibility of the state is nowhere to be found before the tragedy, after the tragedy and now ... the Seoul city government even coldly turned down the bereaved families' request asking for just a small space to commemorate the victims today," Lee said. Lee accused the government of President Yoon Suk Yeol of turning the "ordinary families of the victims" into "fighters," saying his party will continue its efforts to uncover the truth of the disaster and hold those responsible to account. Chandigarh, Feb 4 : Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Saturday flagged off the first batch of 36 government school principals visiting Singapore for upgrading their professional knowledge and expertise in the field of education. Interacting with the delegation here, the Chief Minister gave a clarion call to the teachers for becoming the torchbearers of the education revolution being witnessed in the state since last 10 months. He said this first-of-its-kind initiative by the government is part of the state scheme for teachers' foreign training cleared by the Cabinet on Friday and aims at ensuring the professional skills of the teaching fraternity is enhanced, so that they can deliver best education to the students. Mann said the sole aim of this step is to enable the students of the government schools to compete with their convent-educated peers and excel in life. The Chief Minister reiterated that teachers are the nation-builders who can uplift the level of education, so the government has decided to upgrade their teaching skills by ensuring quality training to them. Mann said as a part of this guarantee, first batch of 36 government school principals are going to Singapore for professional training. The principals will be participating in a Professional Teacher Training seminar from February 6-10. New Delhi, Feb 4 : In Budget 2023-24, the Education Ministry has been allocated Rs 1,12,899.47 crore - the highest ever. Due to this, the share of higher and school education has also gone up. An amount of Rs 44,094.62 crore has been allocated for higher education, which was around 8 per cent higher than the previous year's allocation of Rs 40,828.35 crore. However, some educationists believe that the higher education need even more funds to meet the National Education Policy 2020 (NEP) targets. Professor Mamidala Jagadesh Kumar, Chairman, UGC said, "his is to overcome the learning losses of the Covid-19 pandemic and inject more digital technology into higher education for more access and equity. Increased fund allocation will accelerate the implementation of NEP 2020, bringing further dividends to the students to make them employable and strengthen our efforts in making India a knowledge-based economy, Kumar added. Arvind Chaturvedi Pro Vice Chancellor, IILM University, Gurugram said that an 8 per cent increase in allocation to education sector is not sufficient. "A higher allocation was expected." "Educationists were expecting a higher allocation to meet the NEP target of 6 per cent of GDP. In that sense, it is disappointing. However, the focus of budget proposals has been on IT education and skill development, which is a welcome move," he added. Shishir Jaipuria, Chairman, Seth Anandram Jaipuria Group of Educational Institutions, and Chairman of FICCI Arise have a different opinion. He said, "The Union Budget 2023-24 spells out progressive initiatives and reforms for the Indian education sector in many areas, including skill development, teacher training, future-readiness of learners, and greater accessibility of learning content." In the budget this year, the Centre has fixed a target of training 47 lakh youths in 3 years. Beside this, Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY) 4.0, national apprentice scheme, job training in partnership with industry in coding, internet of things (IOT), Drones, Mechatronics and Artificial Intelligence (AI) related new initiave have also been announced in the budget. Jaipuria said that the most outstanding feature of the budget is the announcement of the PMKVY 4.0 which will be focused on skill development of youth in not just the conventional domains, but also new-age disciplines like AI, robotics, IOT and 3D printing. "The PMKVY will be an excellent catalyst for bringing skill development on par with academic excellence in the Indian education system by setting up 30 Skill India International Centres," he added. He further said that it will also help to bring 20 million out-of-school children back into mainstream education. Additionally, the decision to extend stipend to 47 lakh youth under the National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme through direct transfer benefit will help to boost employability and practical application of skills. Out of Rs 1,12,899.47 crore for Education sector, Department of School Education and Literacy will get an increase of Rs 9752.07 cr (16.51 per cent) in the budget allocation. The overall budget allocation for school education in FY 2023-24 is Rs 68,804.85 crore. Reacting on the budget, Priya Agarwal Hebbar, Non-Executive Director, Vedanta Ltd and Chairperson, Hindustan Zinc Ltd said, "This is a forward looking budget focused on unlocking opportunities for each Indian. The efforts on improvement in nutritional outcomes by mainstreaming millets, access to learning for children via a National Digital Library, are just a few examples." Hyderabad, Feb 4 : Telangana figured just once, albeit tangentially, in the February 1 Union Budget speech by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman when she announced that the Hyderabad-based Indian Institute of Millets Research (IIMR), an affiliate of the Indian Council for Agricultural Research (ICAR), will be transformed into a centre of excellence to make India a global millets hub. The ICAR-IIMR will share best practices, research and technologies at the international level, the Minister announced but made no financial allocation for the proposal. This was the only announcement which brought some cheers for Telangana in what many termed as a disappointing Budget. In tune with its focus on millets, the Centre made the key announcement in the Union Budget for 2023-24. However, the roadmap to achieve the goal of boosting production and procurement of millets was not mentioned. Calling millets 'Shree Anna' or mother of all grains, Sitharaman quoted Prime Minister Narendra Modi to say that India is at the forefront of popularising millets, whose consumption improved food security and the well being of farmers. The Finance Minister pointed out that India is the largest producer and second largest exporter of millets. "We grow several types of Shree Anna, such as Jowar, Raagi, Bajra, Ramdana, Cheena and Saama. These have a number of health benefits and have been an integral part of our food for centuries," she said. The UN has declared 2023 as the International Year of Millets (IYM) at the request of the Indian government to raise awareness and increase the production and consumption of millets. The declaration has allowed the Centre to take the lead in celebrating IYM 2023. As part of this, Central Ministries, state governments and Indian Embassies will hold events throughout the year to promote and spread awareness about the benefits of millets. Support will be provided for post-harvest value addition, enhancing domestic consumption, and for branding millet products nationally and internationally. As per the UN's Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), India is the largest producer of millet in the world with a share of 41 per cent in 2020 Nine types of millets are grown as Kharif crops in over 20 states. Rajasthan, Karnataka, Maharashtra and Andhra Pradesh are the leading producers. In India, millets are grown as a Kharif crop, requiring less water and other agricultural inputs than other staples. Millets are crucial due to their potential to generate livelihoods, increase farmers' income, and ensure food and nutritional security globally. The Economic Survey 2023 highlighted that India alone was responsible for the production of 80 per cent of Asia's and 20 per cent of the global production of millets. India's average yield of millet is 1,239 kg/ha, compared to the global average yield of 1,229 kg/ha. Last month, Prime Minister Modi had appealed to BJP MPs to promote the use of millets across the country, saying this will strengthen the economic condition of small and marginal farmers who grow these crops. Addressing the BJP parliamentary party meeting, the Prime Minister said that millets should be used in mid-day meals offered in school to children. He emphasized that millets should be served in lunches and official banquets to promote its use. He noted that some BJP ministers and leaders have begun the practice by including millets in the lunches and dinners hosted by them and their ministries. India's G20 presidency also offers an opportunity to make millets popular as around 1,00,000 foreign delegates are expected to visit the country in 2023. The PM also suggested that millets be used in anganwadis, schools, homes and government meetings. He called for making the bouquet of grains high on nutrition a popular choice of food for people. The move to develop Hyderabad-based IIMR as a centre of excellence is expected to help farmers growing millets not just in Telangana but also neighbouring Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka and Maharashtra. The BJP may be hoping to politically benefit from this move. The centre of excellence is coming up in a state where BJP is making aggressive efforts to come to power. Political analysts, however, say it is too early to say if the BJP will reap political benefits from this measure. "The announcement to develop the institute in Hyderabad as a centre of excellence, in the words of the finance minister, is to share best practices, research and technologies at the international level. At this stage, we don't know when and how the farmers in the region will benefit from this. Hence, it is too early to comment what political benefit the BJP will drive from it," said analyst Palwai Raghavendra Reddy. It is also worth mentioning that the International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT), which is headquartered at Patancheru near Hyderabad, is also doing research on millets ICRISAT, ICAR-IIMR and the National Institute of Nutrition (NIN), all based in Hyderabad, are some of the key organizations leading the cause of promoting millets. A series of studies led by ICRISAT along with NIN and others established that regular consumption can help lower the risk of diabetes and obesity, while improving cholesterol levels and contributing to lowered risk of cardiovascular disease. The research effort had also demonstrated the effectiveness of millets in combating iron-deficiency anemia and deficiencies of calcium. New Delhi, Feb 4 : Ministries and departments in the Union government end up seeking excess funds every year during the Budget, which results in major variations in expenditure. This requirement of extra funds by ministries is sought in the form of demands for grants, which are approved by the Parliament. This happens due to higher provisioning which needs to be done by departments while trying to meet their ever-growing requirements, which emerge as a result of ambitious announcements made in Union Budgets by successive governments at the Centre. So, in other words, excess funds are needed by almost all departments throughout a financial year from what originally is provided to them in the Union Budget. An analysis of the department-wise expenditure incurred during 2022-23 by some key ministries according the budget documents shows that while the revised estimate (RE) of all key heads for 2022-23 was Rs 41,87,232 crore, the budget estimate (BE) for 2023-24 is Rs 45,03,097 crore, a variation of Rs 3,15,865 crore. This variation is a common occurrence in annual expenses undertaken by various ministries. According to the expenditure analysis provided in the Union Budget 2023-24 documents, department-wise variations have been provided and reasons have been explained in detail. Let us look at excess variations in expenses of some important heads. These variations are mainly due to requirement of additional funds during the course of the financial year. The RE towards interest payment and debt servicing in 2022-23 stood at Rs 9,40,651 crore, while the (BE) for 2023-24 is Rs 10,79,971 crore, showing a variation of Rs 1,39,320 crore. The excess funds had to be sought due to higher requirements for payment of interest on market loans, discount on treasury bills, central government securities issued by National Small Savings Fund, and state provident funds. Similarly, the RE for 2022-23 for capital outlay on railways was Rs 1,59,100 crore, while the BE for 2023-24 was Rs 2,40,000 crore. The excessive expenditure here is Rs 80,900 crore - and the reason behind this was higher provision for construction of new lines, doubling, rolling stock, and investment in railways PSUs. Excessive spend on capital outlay on petroleum can also be seen. The RE for this head in 2022-23 was Rs 40 crore. However the BE for 2023-24 saw a stupendous jump to Rs to 35,508 crore, an excess spending of Rs 35,468 crore. The reason behind the rise in expenses in petroleum outlay was higher provision for investment in oil marketing companies. Defence services RE for 2022-23 was Rs 4,09,500 crore, while the BE for 2023-24 went up to Rs 4,32,720 crore. Here the variation was Rs 23,220 crore, with the higher spending owing to higher requirement for revenue expenditure of army, and navy and capital expenditure of the army and air force. For water supply and sanitation, the RE was Rs 50,617 crore for 2022-23, while the BE for 2023-24 stood at Rs 64,156 crore - higher by Rs 13,539 crore. Here the reason behind requirement for excess funds was higher allocations towards government's ambitious Jal Jeevan Mission and National Rural Drinking Water Mission. The RE for welfare of SCs, STs, OBCs and minorities for 2022-23 was Rs 6,107 crore while the BE for Rs 2023-24 was Rs 9,336 crore. The excess variation here was Rs 3,229 crore due to higher provision for Eklavya model residential schools. New Delhi, Feb 4 : Hailed as a progressive and forward-looking one by the IT and technology honchos, the Union Budget 2023-24 did fall short on some expectations by the industry, especially around consumer electronics manufacturing and bridging the digital divide in the country. According to the India Cellular & Electronics Association (ICEA), the latest steps will have no significant impact on the final product price but are generally in the right direction. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman mentioned that the mobile manufacturing sector crossed Rs 2,75,000 crore in 2021-22. The targeted number for 2022-23 is Rs 3,50,000 crore and Rs 4,40,000 crore in 2023-24. She also proposed the removal of 2.75 per cent basic customs duty (BCD) on camera lens; removal of duty on inputs to parts of connectors -- Palladium Tetra Amine Sulphate; reduction of BCD on parts of open cell of TV panel from 5.5 per cent to 2.75 per cent; continuation of custom exemption notifications which were facing a sunset on March 31, 2023 for another one year. According to Pankaj Mohindroo, Chairman, ICEA, a high-performing sector's genuine requests have not been addressed. "These could have provided a significant impact on competitiveness leading to better exports, arresting the grey market and boosting revenue," he said in a statement. For example, capping of basic customs duty (BCD) on import of high-end mobile phones is required to arrest the burgeoning smuggled market which has crossed Rs 12,000 crore in 2023. "This measure would have boosted government revenue, reduced smuggling, ensured fair trade and helped build legal businesses in India," said Mohindroo. Also required is the removal of input duties on resin, mesh, sponge, film, gasket, logo, cover tape, adhesive tape from 8.25 per cent to 16.5 per cent to zero level. This was essential to promote the manufacturing of a very critical vertical -- mechanics. The government should also remove input duties of 2.75 per cent duty imposed in the previous budget on the many inputs of PCBA, inputs of connectors and inputs of camera modules. "Removal of duty on certain parts of the chargers is also required. While we have built a huge charger manufacturing industry, these changes would have helped us to become more competitive," Mohindroo added. The Indian industry met the 2021-22 manufacturing target of Rs 2,75,000 crore but we may fall short of the manufacturing target of FY 2022-23 because of domestic demand shrinking in 2022-23. In spite of a glorious performance in exports which will cross Rs 70,000 crore in 2022-23 (versus Rs 45,000 crore in 2021-22 plus 50 per cent increase), the 50 per cent increase in GST from 12 per cent to 18 per cent "has dealt a very cruel hand to this high-performing industry which kept the nation's economy moving during the pandemic," said the ICEA. According to the Internet and Mobile Association of India (IAMAI), there have been two critical concerns for the digital industry. "First, the growth rate of digital penetration has slowed down and secondly, there is a clearly identifiable digital divide in India with some sections getting marginalised as they are not onboarded digitally," said the IAMAI. "While the budget announcement marks the correct intention and fiscal incentives, other ministries need to complement the Finance Minister's grand vision to help realise her vision," said the industry body. `According to Sandip Patel, Managing Director, IBM India/South Asia, it is a progressive budget that underscores technology-driven growth. "The investment in core infrastructure will require significant thrust on digital infrastructure including digitization and automation. The budget has outlined measures to provide impetus for technology-driven accelerated change and technology will also work as a key deflationary measure," said Patel. "India is all set for leading the change and usher in green growth which is aptly visible in the green credits to green energy to green mobility to green farming, which has found its place in the budget this year," he added. (Nishant Arora can be reached at nishant.a@ians.in) New Delhi, Feb 4 : Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia has written to Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman seeking a grant of Rs 927 crore for the Delhi Government to take up special developmental works for the G20 Summit scheduled to be held in the capital city. In the letter to the Finance Minister, Sisodia has said that it is a matter of great pleasure that India is hosting the G20 meeting. It is a matter of happiness for us Delhiites that most of the important activities of G20 are going to happen in Delhi itself. The Government of Delhi will cooperate fully with the Government of India in the direction of making the organization of this G20 meeting a success. "In this direction, various departments of the Delhi government have prepared a framework for organising various activities and programmes ranging from infrastructure development to the beautification of specific localities around major G20 event venues and organising some specific activities and programmes on the occasion at prominent locations in Delhi," said Sisodia. He further added that the Delhi government needs Rs 927 crore for the plans made for the special preparations for the G20. Sisodia said that Lieutenant Governor V.K. Saxena is also constantly reviewing these efforts and has also agreed to all these efforts and programmes for the preparations for the G20. "You already know that the Government of India is not giving any money to the Delhi Government as its share in central taxes and not even Delhi govt is given any additional grant from the Government of India. Even the amount given to the Municipal Corporations of all the states of the country according to their population is not given to the Municipal Corporation of Delhi. In such a situation, it is evident that it will not be easy for the Delhi government to spend an additional Rs 927 crore for the preparations for the G20 meeting with its regular limited resources," the deputy CM said. "Therefore, I request you that keeping in view the importance of the G20 meeting and the need for preparations to make its event in Delhi a success, Rs 927 crore required for this should be made available by the Central Government. This will go a long way in helping the Delhi government to implement all these schemes and programmes smoothly," Sisodia added. Los Angeles, Feb 4 : Dissident Iranian director Jafar Panahi has been released from Tehran's Evin prison, his wife Tahereh Saeidi announced in an Instagram post. However, Panahi is out on bail and his case will be reviewed in March, so the release could just be temporary, according to several sources. The director was released two days after announcing that he was going on a hunger strike to protest still being incarcerated after Iran's Supreme Court had in last October overturned a six-year sentence issued against him in 2010 for "propaganda against the system", 'Variety' reported. That sentence had become obsolete due to the country's 10-year statute of limitations. But the directors' wife and lawyers said that Iranian security services were forcing the judiciary to keep Panahi behind bars. "Although I am happy about Panahi's release, it must be said that it should have taken place three months ago," the director's lawyer, Saleh Nikbakht, said in a statement, which has been accessed by 'Variety'. He noted that Panahi should have been released on bail on October 18 last year, the day his sentence was overturned. As per 'Variety', Panahi, 62, is considered one of Iranian cinema's greatest living masters. He is known globally for prize-winning works such as 'The Circle', 'Offside', 'This is Not a Film', 'Taxi', and most recently, 'No Bears', winner of last year's Special Jury Prize at the Venice International Film Festival. The Berlin Film Festival, which awarded 'Taxi' a Golden Bear prize in 2015, immediately issued a statement to express joy that Panahi has been freed. "We were very concerned for the health of Jafar Panahi and are now very glad that he has finally been released," directors Mariette Rissenbeek and Carlo Chatrian said. The director was arrested last July from Tehran in the wake of the country's conservative government crackdown. New Delhi, Feb 4 : Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Saturday made a fresh appeal to Lt Governor V.K. Saxena to allow Delhi government schools' teachers to go to Finland for the training. After Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann flagged off the first batch of 36 state government school principals for a visit to Singapore for training, Kejriwal in a tweet requested Saxena to allow Delhi's teachers to go Finland for training. Sharing the tweet of Punjab CM, Kejriwal said, "The first batch of 36 principals from Punjab has left for Singapore today for training. This is for the better future of the children of Punjab. I request LG Sahib, let the teachers of Delhi also go to Finland for training. Why do you hate the teachers and children of Delhi so much?" Meanwhile, Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia had also on Thursday said that LG Saxena should not stop Delhi government school teachers from going to Finland on a training programme by unconstitutionally misusing the law. "Because of the unconstitutional power given to the LG by the central government of BJP, the Delhi government is not able to send its teachers for training abroad. If the teachers have to be sent abroad for training, then the consent of the LG is not required, but due to the unconstitutional amendments made in GNCTD Act by the Central Government, the LG is stalling everything," Sisodia had told in a Press briefing. Delhi CM made a series of tweets on several issues on Saturday. In another tweet, he accused the BJP government at the Centre of 'fighting with everyone' including states, judges, farmers as well as traders. Citing a news report on the collegium system of appointment of judges, Kejriwal tweeted in Hindi, "Why does the central government fight with everyone? With judges, Supreme Court, state governments, farmers and traders? The country will not progress by fighting with everyone. Do your job and let others do theirs. Don't interfere in other's work." The Centre on Friday had informed the Supreme Court that the collegium's recommendations for five new judges would soon be appointed. In another tweet, Kejriwal lashed out at the Centre for the poor allocation of funds to the Delhi Government. Sharing news that Taliban welcomes Indian Budget 2023-24, Delhi Chief Minister said, "Is it right to give funds to Taliban by cutting the funds of education, health and Delhi in our country? People are strongly opposing it." San Francisco, Feb 4 : Meta (formerly Facebook) lost a whopping $13.7 billion in operating losses for Reality Labs for 2022, giving its AR-VR and Metaverse dream a huge jolt. Within the Reality Labs segment, Q4 revenue was $727 million, down 17 per cent due to lower Quest 2 sales. Reality Labs expenses were $5 billion, up 20 per cent primarily due to employee-related costs and restructuring-related expenses. Reality Labs operating loss was $4.3 billion in the holiday quarter of 2022. Meta bought AR hardware company Oculus for $2 billion back in 2014. Last year, Meta Founder and CEO Mark Zuckerberg said the company will invest $10 billion for its Metaverse dream. Meta CFO Susan Li said that the company expects its annual losses for Reality Labs to be even higher in 2023. "We're going to continue to invest meaningfully in this area given the significant long-term opportunities that we see. It is a long-duration investment," said Li. Zuckerberg said that the company shipped Quest Pro at the end of last year. "It's the first mainstream mixed reality device, and we're setting the standard for the industry with our Meta Reality system," he said. "Beyond MR, the broader VR ecosystem continues growing. There are now over 200 apps on our VR devices that have made more than $1 million in revenue," the Meta CEO informed. The company launched avatars on WhatsApp last quarter and more than 100 million people have already created avatars in the app. Patna, Feb 4 : The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has conducted a raid in Bihar's East Champaran district following which it detained eight operatives of the banned group Popular Front of India (PFI), an official said on Saturday. The searches were carried out at Kuawan village on Friday night. Among the detainees, Riyaz Maroof is considered as the main operative of the PFI. They were facing charges of hatching a conspiracy to carry out an explosion at the under-construction Ram temple in Uttar Pradesh's Ayodhya. According to sources, the NIA had intercepted a message wherein an "explosion at the temple" was mentioned. The operatives were also planning to hold a meeting to discuss their plan of action. Ahmedabad, Feb 4 : The Ahmedabad Detection Crime Branch has unearthed a racket where bookies, under fake names, opened accounts in 20 banks and in Ahmedabad and did transactions worth Rs 1400 crore. Deputy Commissioner of Police Chaitanya Mandlik told the media that, "Police had learned that a bank account was opened in the name of Aakash Oza with Indusind Bank's Odhav branch, without the permission of Aakash. His identity papers were used and his signature was forged. From this bank account Rs 170 crore worth transactions had taken place between April 2022 and July 2022." Investigations revealed that a bookie named Mehul Pujara had opened many such bank accounts in various firms names like Shree Shakti Enterprise, Nova Enterprise, and many others, from which accounts transactions worth at least Rs 1414 crore were carried out. During the investigations the police found that one of the accused, Ashik alias Ravi Patel, had come in contact when he and another accused Karmesh Patel took Aakash's personal documents to get a bank loan for him. Those documents were used by Ravi, Karmesh, Rakesh Rajdev, Khannaji and Harikrishna Patel to open many bank accounts, which were used for money transfer to Dubai for the payment of Satta money, read the FIR. The police officer said a FIR was filed on Thursday. As some bookies are running the operation from Dubai, the department will send a request to the Union Home Ministry to issue a look out notice against them. Lahore, Feb 4 : Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Imran Khan on Saturday asked his workers and supporters to prepare for 'Jail Bharo' movement across the country, media reported. Khan's comments come in the wake of sedition cases filed against his party's Senior Vice-President Fawad Chaudhry and former member of National Assembly Shandana Gulzar, while Senator Azam Swati and Shahbaz Gill were booked earlier for speaking against the military. During his televised address, the deposed Prime Minister said his party could have opted for a nationwide strike, but will choose to fill the prisons instead in light of the fears that the country's economy might deteriorate further, Geo News reported. "We have two options: Considering what they have been doing, we could have gone for a wheel-jam strike and demonstrations - which is also a way and a democratic one." "But since the state of economy is so bad, it'll worsen. Therefore, I ask all my workers, the Pakistani nation and everyone to prepare for Jail Bharo movement," Khan said, Geo News reported. The former premier, while addressing the youth and nation, added that his party won't stay quiet on the violence being inflicted on his party's members. "Instead of causing destruction, we would now prepare Jail Bharo movement." "It was their plan to weaken Tehreek-e-Insaf by frightening and threatening," the PTI chief said. Khan claimed his party never committed such atrocities in its tenure as the Pakistan Democratic Movement-led government in the centre has. "Fawad Chaudhry was picked up from home at 3 a.m. What did Shandana Gulzar do that made her a terrorist. As the court gives bail to Sheikh Rashid, more cases are being filed against him," the PTI chairman said, insisting how action has been taken against every person who called out the regime change, Geo News reported. Bhubaneswar, Feb 4 : Senior BJP leader and Union Tribal Affairs Minister Arjun Munda on Saturday demanded investigation by an independent agency into the brutal murder of Odisha minister Naba Kishore Das. Speaking to media persons here, Munda said the murder of the minister is a major concern for the law and order situation of the state. "If such an incident happens to a minister, then what would be the condition of the common people in the state?" he asked. If such a situation arises in between police and a minister, whom will the common people trust? Munda further asked. Therefore, the case should be investigated by an independent agency so that truth can come out, he demanded. The Tribal Affairs Minister also blamed the Odisha government for non-inclusion of 169 communities into Odisha ST List. "It is not a political issue. It is a constitutional matter. It cannot be resolved by making political statements," he said. The state government has not submitted a concrete proposal for inclusion of the communities in the ST list, Munda said. As per process, he said, proper anthropological research is needed to be done about the communities. After examining those, the Centre can include the genuine tribals in the list. "In the 120 cases, there is no document, no research is done. If we will take those into consideration after receiving just a piece of paper, the entire India will tell us to make them tribals," the Minister said. Munda is here to inform the people about the programmes and welfare measures taken by the Modi government in the Union Budget 2023-24. Meanwhile, the state crime branch, which is investigating the minister's murder case, has got another four-day remand of accused police ASI Gopal Krushna Das (now dismissed). Crime branch ADG Arun Bothra briefed justice J.P Das about the status of investigation. Justice Das, a retired judge of Orissa High Court has been appointed to monitor the high-profile case. Das said he was briefed about the status of investigation in the case and overall, it is going in the right direction. However, he is yet to see the documents. Das also informed that he will soon visit the crime spot at Brajarajnagar in Jharsuguda district. The investigation in the sensational murder case is on the right track, justice Das reportedly said after crime branch ADG Arun Bothra met him at his house in Cuttack and briefed him on the progress in the probe. New Delhi, Feb 4 : A 40-year-old Kashmiri businessman, who was abducted by his two business partners from Delhi's Kashmiri Gate area, was rescued from Punjab, an official said on Saturday. After six hours, Delhi Police along with its counterpart Punjab Police managed to rescue the victim and nabbed the kidnappers from Phagwara in Punjab. The accused have been identified as Nishar Ahmad (48) and Imtiyaz Ahmad (48) --both residents of village Pahroo Navgav, district Budgam in Jammu and Kashmir. Deputy Commissioner of Police (north), Sagar Singh Kalsi, said that on Friday, a Police Control Room (PCR) call was received at Kashmiri Gate police station regarding the kidnapping of a man from the area. "The call was received from a Kashmir-based number and on initial enquiry, it was revealed that two Kashmiris have abducted one man from Hare Rama Travels in the area. The CCTV footage near the travel agency was analysed and it was revealed that the accused abducted Sayad Tarikh in a taxi," said the DCP. "A case under relevant sections of Indian Penal Code was registered and after scanning CCTV footages, it was found that the taxi- swift dzire -- is going towards Kashmir through G.T. Karnal Road. The police teams tasked with investigation immediately chased and a W.T. message was also flashed subsequently to police of Haryana and Punjab," said the DCP. The taxi was intercepted at Phagwara, with the help of Punjab Police and the victim was safely rescued from the clutches of the accused. During interrogation, it was revealed that both the victim and the accused are business partners and there is a monetary dispute of Rs 55 lakh between them. "The victim was not in a position to repay his debt. When the victim opposed paying his debt, both the accused threatened to kill him and asked him to quietly go with them to Jammu and Kashmir and if he spoke to someone in-between, his dead body would not be found," said the official. "The duo accused was planning to recover Rs 55 lakh from the family members of the victim after the abduction. The accused also impersonated police officers before the taxi driver who was hired by them," said the official. Peshawar, Feb 4 : Thousands across Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (K-P) took to the streets to record their protest against increasing lawlessness and terrorism in the region, demanding that the vulnerable police force be armed to the teeth, local media reported. They were holding white flags and demanding strict action against terrorism, The Express Tribune reported. Civil society member, lawyers, political workers and the general public attended the protests held at Peshawar, Bajaur, Dir Upper, Dir Lower, Bannu, DI Khan and other key cities. They said the police have been in the vanguard of terror fight and they should be protected and equipped properly to combat the menace effectively, The Express Tribune reported. The rallies come as Pakistan has been hit by a wave of terrorism, mostly in K-P, as also in Balochistan and the Punjab town of Mianwali, which borders K-P. A terror attack also reached as far as the peripheries of Islamabad. On January 30, a powerful explosion ripped through a mosque in Peshawar's Red Zone area where between 300 and 400 people - mostly police officers - had gathered for prayers. The suicide blast blew away the wall of the prayer hall and caused the inner roof to collapse in which 101 people, mostly policemen, were killed. January was the deadliest month since 2018, in which 134 people lost their lives - a 139 per cent spike - and 254 received injuries in at least 44 terrorist attacks across the country, The Express Tribune reported. On Friday, several rallies organised by local rights organisations were held in K-P's Shangla district. The leadership of different political parties, including the PTI, PPP, Awami National Party (ANP) and others, had addressed the rallies. Bengaluru, Feb 4 : The Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) has lodged a complaint with the cyber crime police station against unidentified miscreants who created a website allegedly impersonating the official website of the Congress party. Through the fake website, false and defamatory messages are being circulated, the complaint said. The Congress said that the 'illegitimate' website is disseminating inaccurate, defamatory and damaging information which are affecting the image of the KPCC. The portal pretending to be the official website of the state Congress is powered by Midnight Digital Private Limited, a digital marketing platform that is supposedly based out of Gujarat. This website is causing severe harm to the image and reputation of the party and its leaders besides causing confusion among the public, the complaint said. The website is not authorised by the party and it is using the official name, address and logo of the Congress without its permission, it added. "The content published on the website is false and defamatory in nature and is intended to malign the image of the party and its leaders," the complaint stated. "This constitutes offence under IPC Section 499 which deals with defamation and Section 505 for dissemination of false information. I request you to take stringent action against the miscreants who have created the illegitimate website and are spreading false content. "The website should be taken down immediately, and the people behind it should be identified and brought to justice," said A.S. Ponnanna, senior advocate and Chairman of Legal Human Rights and RTI Department. New Delhi, Feb 4 : In a major breakthrough, Delhi Police have arrested 17 gamblers, including the kingpin of a gambling syndicate in Dwarka, and recovered around Rs 3.95 lakh from their possession, an officer said on Saturday. A team from the Bindapur police station received specific inputs regarding some gang members, who used to gather at a house in Vani Vihar and indulge in gambling. "On February 2, a police team raided the house following which a total of 17 gamblers were apprehended. They were found making bets on playing cards," said Manoj C., Deputy Commissioner of Police (Dwarka). "A case under Sections 3/4/9/55 of the Gambling Act has been registered at the Bindapur police station and all the accused have been placed under arrest," said the DCP, adding that Rs 3,95,000 in cash was recovered from the spot. On investigation, it was revealed that the kingpin, Manoj Jindal, ran a stationery shop at Vikas Nagar where he suffered huge losses and in order to recover the same, he started an illegal gambling racket at his residence. Chennai, Feb 4 : Four women died in a stampede at Vaniyambadi in Tamil Nadu where a private organisation was distributing free sarees as part of the Thaipooyam festival celebrations. Police said that around 1,000 women reached the place where the saris were being distributed. An stampede ensued leading to many women getting injured. Several women were admitted to a hospital in Vaniyambadi Taluk and four of them, who were serious, died in the hospital. Many of the injured are serious. Police have commenced an investigation. Further details are awaited. New Delhi, Feb 4 : The Chief Justice of Singapore, Sundaresh Menon, said on Saturday said that truth is the foundation on which the rule of law rests, yet truth decay is spreading into court proceedings. Justice Sundaresh Menon was delivering a talk on the topic 'role of judiciary in a changing world' during a programme to mark the 73rd anniversary of the establishment of the Supreme Court, here on Saturday. Justice Menon said truth is the foundation upon which the rule of law rests, however, a number of recent examples suggest that truth decay is spreading into court proceedings. He said that Singapore courts have seen a rise in partisan and unreasoned expert opinions, especially in psychiatric evidence that is used in criminal cases and truth decay can also be seen in the conduct of some advocates who have in some cases attempted to conceal facts from the courts or to delay proceedings on spurious grounds. He emphasised that the findings of the court are generally accepted in the public sphere as generally reflecting the truth. "If that is not the case, then our rulings become merely another voice in an endless clamour of opinions," he said. "The legitimacy of the judiciary depends on broad public acceptance that we are reliable truth seekers and truth finders seeking to do justice according to the lawaaif this trust falls away then the courts are left to operate solely by the force of state power and the belief in and respect for the rule of law in our societies will collapse," Justice menon said. He suggested that judiciaries are facing the onset of a number of discreet challenges which strike at either or both of the core requirements for the discharge of judicial duties, namely competence and legitimacy. Justice Menon also pointed at the breakdown of trust in public institutions and cited a study which found that distrust is now societies' default emotion in many democratic countries. He added that less than half the people surveyed said they trusted institutions such as the government and the media. This may well be due to causes such as truth decay but it is just also likely to be due to the sense that public institutions are failing to deliver on their mission, he added. Justice Menon said that even though the judiciary may not be equipped to handle some of the problems the world is facing, it should be ready to grasp the same. "When the judiciary functions well, it acts as a glue to hold the parts together. The judiciary needs legitimacy to function well and it needs public confidence. Gaining that confidence requires a lot of work," he said. On emerging global challenges, he said the new global challenges will be political first but will also have a legal dimension and "we can expect such disputes to be complex and time-consuming". Bengaluru, Feb 4 : BJP has appointed Union Minister for Education, Skill Development and Entrepreneurship Dharmendra Pradhan as in-charge of forthcoming assembly elections in Karnataka. The party has also appointed Tamil Nadu State President K. Annamalai as the co-incharge. Pradhan had worked as the Karnataka in-charge during the tenure of former chief minister B.S. Yediyurappa in 2008. Annamalai, who was the Karnataka Cadre IPS officer, has fair knowledge of the state. He had rendered services across the state and earned a good name among the public. The people demanded his appointment and protested his transfers in the state. Pradhan had worked as in charge of elections in Uttar Pradesh and other states. Both the leaders are very much aware of ground realities of the state and have fair knowledge of the pulse of the party workers. Aiming to return to power in the state, the saffron party wants to fight on the Hindutva agenda. The leaders have announced that they will seek votes in Karnataka in the name of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. As the elections will be held in less than two months, the political parties have already sounded poll bugle in the state. The campaigning has already been launched by major parties. Leaving no stone unturned, BJP is putting in all efforts as frequent visits by Prime Minister Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath to the state have been lined up in the coming days. New Delhi, Feb 4 : With a view to promote adoption of clean fuels, Union Minister for Heavy Industries Mahendra Nath Pandey on Saturday inaugurated "Towards Panchamrit". Officials said that to drive the country towards cleaner mobility, the Central government is giving a major push to clean fuels. "Towards Panchamrit" event is an effort in this direction, to promote adoption of "Panchamrit'' which is 5 clean fuels -- Hydrogen, Ethanol, Bio Diesel, Gas and Electric Vehicles. Towards Panchamrit, the Conference & Exposition on schemes for promotion and development of the automotive industry in the country was held at International Centre for Automotive Technology (ICAT), Manesar, Haryana. Union Minister for Heavy Industries Mahendra Nath Pandey and MoS Heavy Industries Krishan Pal Gurjar also inaugurated the exposition and ICAT Incubation Centre. Union Minister Mahendra Nath Pandey emphasised that in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's announcements at COP 26 -- "Panchamrit Ki Saugat", 5 commitments to achieve the vision of becoming a carbon neutral country by 2070, ministries are making comprehensive efforts to move towards fulfilling this vision. He said the government under the visionary leadership of PM Modi is taking efforts to achieve vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat in automotive industry. Mahendra Nath Pandey said that the government has abolished duty on vehicles brought in by international automakers for testing purposes in the country, which earlier attracted duties of 252 per cent. He said this will attract automakers from more countries to avail the testing facilities available in the country. He sought support of the auto industry in the efforts of the government towards making India a clean and green country. MoS Krishan Pal Gujjar highlighted initiatives taken by the Ministry to promote clean and green mobility. He said these initiatives will give a boost to domestic manufacturing, help in employment generation, reduce dependence on exports, promote growth and development of the industry and thereby, help in achieving the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat in the automotive industry. The event was attended by automotive industry leaders, senior government officials and students. The exposition had displays from over 84 companies, which included 33 component manufacturers, 11 companies from testing equipment manufacturers and 36 vehicle manufacturers. The Ministry has taken several initiatives such as PLI - Auto, PLI - Advanced Chemistry Cells (ACC) and FAME-II to boost manufacturing of environmental friendly products in Automotive Industry. These schemes focus on creating a robust ecosystem of innovation that will enable development of clean mobility solutions and reduce the carbon foot print of the country. Kohima, Feb 4 : The authorities in Nagaland, as part of their pre-poll raids against drugs, arms peddling and unauthorised monetary transactions, have seized various contrabands and cash amounting to around Rs 29 crore so far, since the announcement of the Nagaland assembly poll on January 18, officials said on Saturday. An election official said that various drugs worth Rs 25 crore, various freebies and other items valued at Rs 1.71 crore and cash of Rs 2.45 crore have been seized from different parts of the state. The officer said that ahead of the February 27 Nagaland Assembly elections, various enforcement agencies would continue their raids against all kinds of illegal activities and clandestine trading. The police have also sought public cooperation and support during the election period for proper implementation of the Model Code of Conduct. A police officer said that after obtaining permission from court, a total of 7,843 seized liquor bottles were recently destroyed by the Nagaland Police in the presence of the Magistrate. Chennai, Feb 4 : The Tamil Nadu police have commenced investigation into an Iridium scam in which some people were allegedly luring the public that if Rs 5 lakh is invested in an Iridium project, they would get returns of up to Rs 3 crore in a period of two years. In a video message, Director General of Police, C. Sylendrababu, has appealed to the public that this is a scam and that people should not invest money in this project. Sources in the police told IANS that in several parts of Tamil Nadu, especially in Kanniyakumari, Nagercoil and Coimbatore areas, people were being cheated through the Iridium scam. The police have commenced an investigation to nab the kingpins behind such a proposal. It is to be noted that many people from neighbouring Kerala and Karnataka are brought to Tamil Nadu with touts convincing them that Iridium worth hundreds of crores of rupees is stored deep in the forest areas. Just to have a glimpse of the Iridium, lakhs of rupees are charged and once the person is hoodwinked, he is taken deep into the forests and then beaten black and blue, with some even losing their lives in the attacks. The police have been regularly warning people against such scams and the video message of the DGP is intended to make people aware of the Iridium scam. Iridium is a chemical element which is a very hard, brittle, silvery-white transition metal of the platinum group. It is considered the second-densest naturally occurring metal. Kohima, Feb 4 : The influential Naga body Eastern Nagaland People's Organisation (ENPO) on Saturday withdrew its call to boycott the February 27 Assembly polls. The boycott call was withdrawn after the ENPO received an assurance from the Central government regarding its demand for a separate 'Frontier Nagaland' state. ENPO secretary W. Manwang Konyak told IANS that the organisation has withdrawn the boycott call after getting an assurance from the Central government that its separate 'Frontier Nagaland' state demand would be considered. Union Home Minister Amit Shah expressed his happiness over the ENPO's decision to withdraw the boycott call. He tweeted: "I am grateful for their positive gesture reaffirming ENPO's commitment to democratic processes. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has made untiring efforts to assure the people of northeast that the government is with them and the ENPO's move is an approval of these endeavours." "It is heartening that in an expression of trust in the Modi government, the Eastern Nagaland Peoples Organisation (ENPO) in Nagaland has withdrawn its call to boycott the assembly elections. The decision will help in keeping the ongoing process of peace & development unhindered," Shah said in a separate tweet. In January, the Eastern Nagaland Legislators' Union (ENLU), comprising Ministers, MLAs and Advisors to various departments, announced that it has decided to participate in the elections. Immediately, after the announcement of the schedule of assembly polls in three northeastern states by the Election Commission, the influential Konyak Union also had rejected the state government's appeal, and reiterated to boycott the February 27 elections until the Central government grants the demand for a separate 'Frontier Nagaland' state. Claiming that the six districts -- Mon, Tuensang, Kiphire, Longleng, Noklak and Shamator -- have been neglected for years, the ENPO has been demanding a separate state since 2010. The United Democratic Alliance (UDA) government, led by the Nationalist Democratic Progressive Party and including the BJP, had on a number of occasions asked the ENPO to reconsider their demand for a separate state and not to boycott the Assembly elections. Palanpur : , Feb 4 (IANS) A man murdered his wife before committing suicide by hanging himself at Ravi village in Banaskantha district in North Gujarat, the police said on Saturday. According to a complaint filed by the deceased's person's son Bhavesh Bharathri, "I was working in the field on Friday when my father, for unknown reasons, attacked my mother Manjulaben. On reaching home, I found my mother lying in a blood pool. I rushed her to the hospital, where the doctor declared her dead. My wife told me that my father Shankarbhai Bharathri had attacked my mother with a sharp-edged weapon. After attacking her, he fled away." When Bhavesh was at the hospital, he received a call from the village sarpanch, informing him that his father had hanged himself from a tree near the village lake. New Delhi, Feb 4 : Delhi Lt. Governor V.K. Saxena on Saturday approved the revival of 126 posts of principal/deputy education officer of the government schools, an official said. "In a move that would help the woefully short-staffed education department of GNCTD, especially at the cutting-edge level, the Lt. Governor has approved the revival of 126 posts of principal/deputy education officer that had lapsed due to the fact that they were lying vacant for more than two years," the L-G Secretariat said in a statement. Meanwhile, he has also put on hold a proposal to abolish 244 posts of principal deputy education officer as proposed by Education Department, as those posts had also been lying vacant for more than five years. The L-G has asked the Education Department "to submit a suitable proposal for abolition/creation of posts of principal/deputy education officer after getting the comprehensive study conducted by the AR Department, as pointed out by the Services Department." It may be noted that government rules provide for posts lying vacant for more than two years to be considered as "deemed abolished" and for those lying vacant for more than five years to be "considered abolished". These 370 posts (126 deemed abolished posts and 244 considered abolished posts), were supposed to have been filled in through promotion as per the recruitment rules, by the directorate of education from the year 2013-14 to 2019," the statement read. With regards to the proposal for abolition of 244 posts of principal, the services department had advised the AR department to carry out a comprehensive study in one go, while noting that 'the post of a principal is a crucial post for the functioning of the education department and in this way, the exercise of abolition/creation of posts need not be taken up time and again'. However, despite the observations of the services department, the directorate of education moved the proposal for abolition of 244 posts of principals, the statement read. Nadiad : , Feb 4 (IANS) The police have arrested two persons for assaulting an employee at Bank of India's (BOI) Nadiad branch. Manish Dhangar is serving as an officer with the Bank of India's Nadiad-Kapadwanj branch, handling the loan desk. In his complaint, Dhangar said, "On Friday afternoon, a customer named Samarth Brahmbhatt reached the branch and started beating me. He slapped me three to four times, and even kicked me. When the other staff tried to intervene, Samarth's friend Parth, who was accompanying him, kicked me." According to Dhangar, Samarth was angry with him and the bank because the repeatedly calls were made to him to submit a copy of his house insurance policy. Samarth had threatened over phone that he will not submit the insurance policy. Samarth had taken a home loan from the bank. During audit, it was found that the customer had not submitted his house insurance policy, which was required since the house was not mortgaged with the bank. The police have arrested both accused persons. Jaipur, Feb 4 : Similar to what was witnessed during the wedding ceremony of actors Vicky Kaushal and Katrina Kaif, Sidharth Malhotra and Kiara Advani have also announced a no phone policy in their wedding functions scheduled from February 6-7. Rajasthan is set to witness another star wedding of Sidharth Malhotra and Kiara Advani which is the first Bollywood wedding of 2023 in the desert state. Last year, Bollywood stars Vicky Kaushal and Katrina Kaif tied the nuptial knot in Sawai Madhopur. Following the same policy as that of Vicky and Katrina, the star couple had announced a 'no phone policy' and the hotel staff had been informed about the same. Besides, the guests of both bride and groom have been requested not to post any pictures of the wedding on social media. As per the sources, the wedding functions of Sidharth Malhotra and Kiara Advani will be organised from February 5-7. Earlier, reports said that 100-125 guests would attend the wedding besides the families of Sidharth Malhotra and Kiara Advani. Kiara landed in Jaisalmer on Saturday evening with fashion designer Manish Malhotra. It is being said that celebrities like Karan Johar, and Isha Ambani will also attend the wedding. As per information, about 80 rooms have been booked in the Suryagarh Palace of Jaisalmer for the wedding. Along with this, around 70 luxury cars have also been booked to ferry the guests. New Delhi, Feb 4 : The Delhi Police and a few businessmen from the Sadar Bazar market have collected over Rs 1.5 lakh and gave it to the family of Gulab Singh who died in a blast last month, an official said on Saturday. Taking to Twitter, Delhi Police wrote: "Sadar Bazar police station and businessmen from the market collected an amount of Rs 1,76,000 and gave it to the family of Gulab Singh, who lost his life in a blast, presenting an example of humanity." Singh succumbed to his injuries during treatment at the hospital, while four others were injured after an explosion took place on January 7 in Delhi's Sadar Bazar area. Singh was carrying a bag of firecrackers when the explosion occurred. The bag was given by 19 year-old accused Mohammad Faiz to the victim to dispose of. Faiz, a resident of Hapur in Uttar Pradesh, was arrested by the police. According to police, on January 7, a police control room (PCR) call was received regarding a wall collapse at a building on Qutub Road, Sadar Bazar, following which a police team rushed to the spot. "After reaching the spot, it was found that the staircase and a side wall had fallen due to a blast. Faiz had disclosed that he used to deal in firecrackers during the festival season. "On January 7, he was cleaning the godown and gave the firecrackers and other materials to the victim for disposing but did not tell him about the explosive substance kept in the bag," a senior police officer said. Guwahati, Feb 4 : Continuing the crackdown on child marriages, Assam Police have arrested a total of 2,258 people so far, an official said on Saturday. Rajib Saikia, PRO of Assam Police, has said that the highest numbers of arrests were reported from Biswanath district where 139 people were held and 97 cases were registered against child marriage. Barpeta district has the second highest number of arrests, which stands at 128 against the total number of 81 cases lodged. The Muslim-dominated district of Dhubri logs the third-highest arrests. Already 127 people have been arrested by the police. Here, 374 complaints of child marriages have been registered. Meanwhile, many women in different parts of the state have expressed displeasure over the arrest of their husbands. They have been protesting outside the police stations against the crackdown. Some of them even asked "who will feed the family if their spouses are jailed". Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Saturday, however, made it clear that the police operation against child marriage will continue in the state. "People should not try to draw sympathy on this issue. This is extremely necessary to save the future generation," he said. Colombo, Feb 4 : Highlighting the gravity of financial crisis Sri Lanka has been undergoing, President Ranil Wickremesinghe, whil addressing the nation on the eve of 75th Independence, said "we have reached the point of destruction." President was addressing the nation following the Independence Day celebrations attended by a large number of foreign dignitaries and envoys but boycotted by all major opposition political parties and the Catholic Churchand amidst public protests against huge cost that had to be borne for the celebrations. The main minority Tamil representative party, the Tamil National Alliance (TNA) boycotted the Independence Day celebrations and declared it as a 'Black Day'. The Catholic Church protested against the spending of over $500,000 (200 million in Sri Lanka rupee) for the Independence Day while the Indian Ocean island was going through its worst ever economic crisis. "Sri Lankan citizens have become prisoners of poverty and a brutal dictatorship," stated the head of the Catholic Church, the Archbishop of Colombo, Cardinal Malcolm Ranjith. "Politicians have failed to find practical solutions to the crisis. A government that has no money to bring medicine to the country, spends 200 million rupees to celebrate independence with great pride," the Church leader charged. Meanwhile, on Friday night, police violently chased away a group of protestors who staged a Satyagraha against the Independence Day celebrations and some of them had been arrested. The protestors were a section who led a thre-month long continuous protest from April until former President Gotabaya Rajapaksa and the government led by his brother Mahindawere forced step down. However, President Wickremesinghe who took over reins and managed to control the week-long queues for food, fuel and cooking gas, vowed that he would introduce new political reforms and with the aim of taking Sri Lanka to a developed country by 2048, the centenary of the Independence. "I'm not attempting to treat the superficial condition with painkillers. But to treat the root cause of the malaise. It is challenging and difficult, but it's our only option. I know that many of the decisions I have been compelled to take since assuming the presidency have been unpopular. However, because of those decisions, today no citizen of this country will die of dehydration in oil queues. You won't starve without gas. Not curse without fertilizer," Wickremesinghe, who runs the country with the Rajapaksa loyalist majority parliament, said. "There are those who want to keep perpetuating this wound forever, though I don't wish. Let's seek to heal this wound though it's difficult and painful. If we endure the suffering and pain for a short period of time, we can get the wound healed completely," Wickremesinghe said referring to the dire situation where people had to face soaring cost of living and massive tax hikes introduced from January. "Today, we are facing an unprecedented economic crisis, hitherto never experienced. Why have we to face such a situation? Who is responsible for such? Let's be truthful. All of us are more or less responsible for this situation. None of us can point fingers and blame each other. We made mistakes from the beginning. Efforts were made to rectify those mistakes, though it was not possible to correct them completely," the President confessed. Sri Lankan President also announced that measures have been taken to introduce maximum devolution of powers in a unitary state, a promise that had been made to India which intervened to solve the ethnic crisis mainly between the majority Sinhalese and the minority Tamils. In 1987, Indo-Lanka Accord was signed between the then Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi and Lankan President J.R. Jayawardene with a Constitutional amendment devolve power at a Provincial level. Wickresinghe announced on the release of Tamil national owned lands that were occupied by the military since during the war and freeing of former Tamil rebel fighters who had been incarcerated for long years, a demand made by Tamil political parties and the others. Meanwhile Indian State Minister of External Affairs V. Muraleedharan, who represented India at the Independence celebration, met President Wickremesinghe on Saturday evening and conveyed greetings of Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the 75th Independence Day of Sri Lanka. The Indian Minister also appreciated the measures taken by the Sri Lankan government to ensure ethnic harmony and also had discussed the implementation of the 13th Amendment to the Constitution. Lahore, Feb 4 : Former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Saturday accused the coalition government of the country of using the recent wave of terrorism to gain "political mileage" for its own benefit, local media reported. In a televised address, the PTI Chairman claimed that terrorism was at its lowest-ever point during his government but resurfaced with a vengeance during the "current regime", Dawn reported. "Look at the graph of terrorism and how it came down during the PTI rule," he said, adding, "Why wasn't there any terrorism when PTI was in the federal government?" Khan pinned the responsibility of rising terrorism on incumbent Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif as he recalled the sacrifices made by the people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) during the war on terror, Dawn reported. "This is why they (KP public) came out yesterday and thronged the streets in fear that there might be another operation," he said, adding that countless innocent lives are lost during anti-terror operations. The PTI chief added that "lies" were spewed by PM Shehbaz in the cabinet meeting over the weekend regarding KP not utilising the terrorism funding properly, Dawn reported. "KP spent Rs 600 billion in nine years. We made four police training schools, an elite training school in Nowshera, a special combat force to fight terrorism," Khan said, adding, "This is why terrorism subsided. A DNA lab was also made in 2017 at Khyber Medical College." Khan also announced a "Jail Bharo Tehreek" as the next step to be taken by the PTI in light of the prevailing political situation that has seen several of its top leaders and allies spend time behind bars. Elaborating on the movement, the PTI chief said "instead of thronging the streets, getting violent and ransacking places, we will now fill the jails of the country". This way, he said, the federal government's "new hobby" of putting every senior PTI leader in jail will also be fulfilled, Dawn reported. "Entire party and the people should prepare for the Jail Bharo Tehreek," Khan said. New Delhi, Feb 4 : The first G20 Energy Transitions Working Group (ETWG) Meeting under India's Presidency will begin on Sunday. The first G20 ETWG Meeting under India's Presidency being held in Bengaluru will have over 150 participants including G20 member countries, nine special invitee guest countries -- Bangladesh, Egypt, Mauritius, Netherlands, Nigeria, Oman, Singapore, UAE and Spain. India's G20 Presidency will share, collaborate, and build on the sense of trusteeship amongst the member countries to help build a sustainable future for all. Union Minister for Power and New and Renewable Energy R.K. Singh will deliver the keynote address of the three-day event. Union Minister for Parliamentary Affairs, Coal and Mines Pralhad Joshi will deliver a special address. The priority areas of the ETWG meeting include energy transition through addressing technology gaps; low-cost financing for energy transition; energy security and diversified supply chains; energy efficiency, industrial low carbon transitions and responsible consumption; Fuels for Future (3F) and universal access to clean energy and just, affordable, and inclusive energy transition pathways. The Energy Transitions Working Group, while retaining focus on achieving energy transition, will emphasise on addressing technology gaps and financing to ensure that it is delivered across countries in a time-bound and affordable manner without compromising the energy needs of the communities. The expected outcomes of the deliberations would include agreement to advance cooperation initiatives under Research and Development-20 roadmap for channelising adequate low-cost international finance towards deployment of critical technologies, declaration on collective efforts to ensure energy security and diversified supply chains of new energy sources, roadmap for doubling global rate of improvement in energy efficiency by 2030, action plan for enhancing and promoting bio-energy cooperation, and recommendations on global best practices for supporting Just, Affordable, and Inclusive energy transitions. Bengaluru, Feb 4 : Karnataka Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai on Saturday said in the history of the state, leader of the opposition in the Assembly, Siddaramaiah has the "credit" of taking the maximum loan during his five years' ruling as the chief minister. Reacting to the former chief minister's charges that only 10 per cent of the work announced in the previous year's budget had been implemented and the state's borrowing has touched Rs 3 lakh crore, Bommai told reporters here on Saturday that details of the budget implementation will be furnished in the coming budget session. On Karnataka Congress Manifesto Committee chairman G Parameshwar, unhappy about being sidelined, Bommai said it was an internal matter of the Congress party. "... but Parameshwar is very intelligent and knows everything. If he has expressed unhappiness, they must understand it," he said. Commenting on Siddaramaiah's statement that there was a pro-Congress wave across the state, he suggested the Congress leader to protect the MLAs of the region where he is touring. Asked about Sri Ram Sena Chief Pramod Muthalik's request to the BJP not to field its candidate in Karkala, Bommai said Energy Minister V. Sunil Kumar has been representing the constituency for the last three polls, and "this is his constituency". "Everyone has the right to appeal but as a national party, BJP will field its candidates in all the 224 Assembly constituencies," the CM said. New Delhi, Feb 4 : After the Lieutenant Governor of Delhi, V.K. Saxena, on Saturday approved the revival of 126 posts of principal/deputy education officer at state-run schools, Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sidosia termed it as a 'false' claim and asked the 'not to play politics over the issue and instead explain why he has been delaying such crucial appointments'. Sisodia said, "Delhi L-G has stalled the revival of 244 posts in the name of 'comprehensive study'. Schools are running without principals but the L-G wants a 'comprehensive study' to assess whether principals are needed. Every school needs a principal and the posts are vacant, which should be filled first rather than studying the need." "Instead of claiming credit, place the files in the public domain to explain why you have been delaying the appointment of principals. Stop giving bureaucratic excuses, give a date by which the posts of principals abolished by you will be revived," Sisodia said. Issuing a statement, Sisodia said, "The L-G's office has issued a press release claiming that he has approved the revival of 126 posts of school principals which lapsed due to the 'apathy' and 'inaction' of the AAP government. This claim by L-G office is a new bunch of lies and it is a blatant attempt to hide the fact that the Central government and the L-G office have stalled the appointment of principals in Delhi government schools for more than seven years." The statement from the Deputy CM also pointed out a sequence of events claiming that it will "expose the lies and false claims of the L-G office". The statement read, "The fact is that right after the formation of the AAP government under the leadership of Arvind Kejriwal in 2015, it approached the UPSC to fill 370 vacant posts of principals. In the meantime, in 2015 itself, the services department was unconstitutionally taken away from the purview of the elected government and handed over to the L-G. Hence, effectively, the L-G was responsible for these appointments and was supposed to act promptly to get these appointments done." "For the reasons best known to the L-G office, these appointments were not allowed to happen on one pretext or the other. So much so that the Education Minister, understanding the pain of running the schools without principals, held a series of meetings with the services department but they were under direct instructions not to expedite the process. Excuses like 'comprehensive study' of requirements of these posts were imposed by the services department, obviously under the instructions of the L-G," read the statement. Sisodia also said that after so much effort by the Education Minister despite repeated stalling by the L-G, his office is shamelessly claiming that he has revived 126 posts, hiding the fact that he has actually abolished 244 school principal posts on the ground that they have been lying vacant for the last more than five years. "While we welcome the revival of 126 posts after repeated efforts of the Education Minister, if the L-G is really sincere and is not playing politics again, he should give a date by which the remaining 244 posts will be revived. He should not hide behind terms like 'comprehensive study' or such lame bureaucratic excuses to obstruct the appointment of principals to schools," he said. Sisodia said that it is a matter of fact that 244 posts of principals are also needed because they exist in the schools which are functioning without principals for so many years. "Lastly, we urge the L-G to stop playing dirty politics. First he has stalled foreign travel of teachers to attend training in Finland and now he wants to abolish 244 posts of principals under the false claim of reviving 126 posts," Sisodia said in the statement. New Delhi, Feb 4 : A Delhi court on Saturday, while discharging former JNU student and activist Sharjeel Imam, co-accused Asif Iqbal Tanha and others in a case related to the incidents of violence at Jamia Millia Islamia in December 2019, said that the police were unable to apprehend the actual perpetrators behind the commission of the offence, but surely managed to rope in the above-mentioned accused as 'scapegoats'. The violence had erupted after a clash between the police and people protesting against the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) in December 2019. Additional Sessions Judge of Saket Court Complex, Arul Verma, passed the order. Verma said that the protesters were surely there in large numbers and it cannot be denied that some anti-social elements within the crowd created an environment of disruption. However, the moot question remains as to whether the accused persons herein were even prima facie complicit in taking part in that mayhem, Verma asked. "The answer is an unequivocal 'no'. Marshalling the facts as brought forth from a perusal of the chargesheet and three supplementary chargesheets, this court cannot but arrive at the conclusion that the police were unable to apprehend the actual perpetrators behind the commission of the offence, but surely managed to rope in the persons herein as scapegoats," he said. The chargesheet was filed against accused Mohd Ilyas on April 21, 2020, and a supplementary chargesheet was also filed against him alongwith a complaint under Section 195 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC). Thereafter, a second supplementary chargesheet was filed before the court against 11 other accused persons, namely Sharjeel Imam, Asif Iqbal Tanha, Mohammad Qasim, Mahmood Anwar, Shahzar Raza Khan, Mohd Abuzar, Mohd Shoaib, Umair Ahmad, Bilal Nadeem, Chanda Yadav and Safoora Zargar, who have been discharged in the matter. "To allow the persons charge-sheeted to undergo the rigmarole of a long drawn trial does not augur well for the criminal justice system of our country," Verma said. He added that such police action is "detrimental to the liberty" of the citizens who choose to exercise their fundamental right to peacefully assemble and protest. The court said: "The desideratum is for the investigative agencies to discern the difference between dissent and insurrection. The latter has to be quelled indisputably. However, the former has to be given space, a forum, for dissent is perhaps reflective of something which pricks a citizen's conscience." The court said that before embarking on galvanising the judicial system against the 11 accused persons, the investigative agencies should have incorporated the use of technology, or have gathered credible intelligence. "Else, it should have abstained from filing such ill-conceived chargesheets qua persons whose role was confined only to being part of a protest," the court noted. "In view of the above in extenso analysis, considering the fact that the case of the State is devoid of irrefragable evidence, all the persons charge-sheeted barring Mohd Ilyas are hereby discharged for all the offences for which they were arraigned. They be set at liberty, if not wanted in any other cases," the court added. However, Imam, who is also an accused under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act in the conspiracy case related to the 2020 North-East Delhi riots, will remain in custody. The court, meanwhile, framed charges of unlawful assembly and rioting against Mohd Ilyas. "Photographs of Mohd Ilyas have been clearly shown in a newspaper, hurling a burning tyre, an overt act has been ascribed to him, and he has been duly identified by police witnesses," the court noted. Hubballi : , Feb 4 (IANS) Infosys founder N.R. Narayana Murthy on Saturday appealed to Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitaraman to bring back the old regime of allowing the Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) to stay in the country for 183 days. Addressing the 14th 'Development Dialogue' conference of the Deshpande Foundation in Hubballi, Murthy said, "Though they have no need to do so, NRIs have a heart for the betterment of India. For the same reason, they come and spend time here." Murthy maintained that it is his request to the political leadership and bureaucrats to welcome NRIs. "They come with tremendous value... We should welcome them with open arms and reduce frictions for them," he said. The decision to reduce the stay of NRIs from 183 days to 120 days in a financial year has made the country lose 63 days of the presence of NRIs, who work for the betterment of the Indian society, Murthy said. "My humble request to the Union Finance Minister is to bring back the old regime in this regard and allow the NRIs who will make life of the local people better to stay for a longer period," he said. "The objective of turning the dreams of the founding fathers of our country to provide the poorest child in the remote village with access to good education, healthcare, nutrition and a sheter would be achieved fast through embracing NRIs, who come with tremendous value," Murthy added. "There is nothing wrong if the stay of NRIs is increased to 250 days. The country would only benefit as their presence will make the nation better. It will have an impact on the startups as well," he said. Jammu, Feb 4 : Jammu and Kashmir Lt. Governor Manoj Sinha on Saturday inaugurated Special Governance Camps for Kashmiri migrants at Jagti Colony in Jammu. The 12-day long camp at six locations is aimed to ensure 100 per cent saturation of social security schemes for Kashmiri migrants. Eighteen departments have put up their stalls at the camp that includes facilities for enrolment of youth for self employment, skilling and up-skilling. Speaking on the occasion, Sinha said: "The administration is sensitive to the issues of Kashmiri Migrant families and 'PM Package Employees'." "Few unfortunate incidents had occurred. These attacks were not only on individuals but also on the integrity of India. There are a handful of people, who on the behest of the neighbouring country are targeting innocent civilians," the Lt. Governor said. He said: "Under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, we are working with full sensitivity and commitment to address all the issues." Sinha also said that many 'PM Package Employees' have resumed their duties and the direction has been issued to release their pending salaries without delay. He said that almost all the posts under the PM Package have been filled and the UT government has made all the arrangements for the construction of 6,000 dwellings. "Except two, the construction is underway on all the sites. I am personally monitoring the progress," the Lt Governor said. He also said that 80-85 per cent PM Package employees are posted at district headquarters. Some are posted at tehsil headquarters after the security audit of the areas. We have ensured that no one is posted at any office or school situated in remote isolated area, he added. "We are committed to fulfill the expectation of people. Earlier, the laws were formulated to retrieve the properties of Kashmiri Pandit brothers but it was not implemented. We have taken immediate action and out of 8,000 applications received on Migrant Portal, around 6,000 cases have been resolved. The administration and the security forces are working with dedication to ensure your safety," the Lt. Governor said. New Delhi, Feb 5 : The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Sunday said it has recently carried out search operations in 10 different places in Punjab in connection with the recovery of arms and drugs cases. The raids were conducted at Sheron, Naushehra Pannuan and Bugha in Punjab's Tarn Taran district. The ED said that the business and residential premises of one Kattar Singh a.k.a. Laddi, Gajjan Singh, Makhan Singh, other members of their family and some associates were searched. "During the course of the search, various incriminating evidence was recovered and seized relating to numerous immovable properties worth crores of rupees in the names of the above mentioned persons, members of their family and their associates," an official said. A few packets of psychotropic substances appearing to be opium and its derivate products, including heroin, were also recovered from the residential premises of Laddi and his family at Sheron village. Hence, a request was made to the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) for verification and testing of the suspicious products. As per the NCB officials, the substance recovered was suspected to be heroin weighing approximately 2.2 kg, which was tested and seized by them in the presence of the ED officials. "Some packets of white powdery substance were recovered from the shop of Laddi at Nausheran Pannuan for which NCB was requested for its verification and testing. The same appeared to be suspected contraband material weighing over 13 kg which was seized by them in the presence of ED officials. Arms and ammunition totalling 2 rifles and 3 pistols along with some cartridges were recovered during the said search operation," the official said. One rifle, two pistols and cartridges were found at residential premises of Laddi and one rifle, one pistol and some cartridges were found at the residential premises of Makhan Singh. The local police were informed about the arms and ammunition. Since original licenses were not available for some of the arms recovered from residential premises, the same were handed over to the local police authorities. Jalandhar Zonal Office of the ED had taken up an investigation under the PMLA, against the above-mentioned persons on the basis of multiple FIRs against Hardev Singh a.k.a. Rambo and others. Hardev Singh is currently incarcerated in Central Jail, Amritsar following the recovery of 4 kg of heroin by the Punjab Police in 2018. Agartala, Feb 5 : Tipra Motha Party (TMP), which has been demanding to upgrade the Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council (TTAADC) as a full-fledged state, would pass a resolution against the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) within 150 days if the party comes to power in Tripura after the February 16 Assembly elections. TMP chief and former royal scion Pradyot Bikram Manikya Deb Barman released its 15-point promises - Mission 15 for 150 days -- for the upcoming Assembly elections on Saturday. Deb Barman promised a socio economic survey in Tripura. "We want people irrespective of any religion and caste to live in Tripura. We would pass a resolution against CAA. In one country there cannot be two laws, similarly, one country cannot have a law which bars Muslims and tribals," Deb Barman told the media. He said that to make Tripura a drugs-free state, a village-level task force would be set up to fight against drug menace. "Zero tolerance against corruption and violence would be undertaken within 150 days of the TMP coming to power. Specific mission would be undertaken and a task force would be constituted against poverty," he said. Saying that the TMP would learn the good things from other party-ruled governments, Deb Barman said that 10 problems would be identified in each Assembly constituency and these would be solved within 150 days. The tribal leader promised a permanent constitutional solution to the indigenous people of Tripura and to provide 20,000 new government jobs in 150 days. The TMP has fielded candidates in 42 seats - 20 in tribal reserved and remaining in general and Scheduled Caste reserve seats. The TMP supremo earlier held a series of meetings with the ruling BJP's ally Indigenous People's Front of Tripura (IPFT) for seat adjustment, but the IPFT leaders did not forge any alliance with Deb Barman's party. The IPFT, since 2009, has been demanding to make the areas under the TTAADC a full-fledged state while the TMP since 2021 has been demanding elevation of the TTAADC areas by granting of 'Greater Tipraland State' or a separate state status under Articles 2 and 3 of the Constitution. The ruling BJP, CPI-M led Left, Congress, and the Trinamool Congress, though strongly opposing the demands of both IPFT and the TMP, have tried a lot to make seat adjustments or forge an electoral alliance with the TMP or TIPRA. Of the 60 Assembly seats in Tripura, 20 tribal reserve seats are crucial for any party to capture power and the TMP being a tribal based party is a main stakeholder of these tribal reserve seats, which were once a stronghold of the Left parties headed by the CPI-M. Washington, Feb 5 : Fighter jets have shot down the Chinese spy balloon that had been adrift across US airspace for days now, according to media outlets citing witnesses. A confirmation was awaited from the US defense department. The balloon was over the Carolinas at the time. The Federal Aviation Agency, the US aviation regulator, had closed airspace around are around the time of the shooting and shut down three airports in preparation. Witnesses recounted in TV interviews and on social media that they saw several fighter jets around the balloon for 30 to 40 minutes before it was shot down. "We're gonna take care of it," President Joe Biden told reporters just hours before, when asked if the US will shoot down the balloon. The balloon which was first reported by the US department of defense on Thursday marked a new spike in tensions between the US and China, with the US describing the balloon an "unacceptable" violation of US sovereignty and ed to the postponement of Secretary of State Antony Blinken's high profile visit to Beijing this week. Washington, Feb 5 : Fighter jets have shot down the Chinese spy balloon that had been adrift across US airspace for days now. "I ordered them to shoot it down," President Joe Biden said on Saturday confirming the downing of the Chinese contraption that had gripped the country in a frenzy since Thursday, when the US department of defense had first made it public, acknowledging, at the same time, it was not first such incident. President Biden said he had ordered the military to shoot it down on Wednesday in internal discussions preceding the public disclosure. Military leaders had recommended waiting because of fear of falling debris on civilian population underneath. Further affirmation of the shooting of the balloon followed in a statement from Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin. "This afternoon, at the direction of President Biden, US fighter aircraft assigned to US Northern Command successfully brought down the high altitude surveillance balloon launched by and belonging to the People's Republic of China (PRC) over the water off the coast of South Carolina in US airspace," he said. He added that the balloon was being "used by the PRC in an attempt to surveil strategic sites in the continental US. He reiterated that the President had ordered it to be shot down on Wednesday as soon as the mission could be accomplished without undue risk to American lives under the balloon's path. "After careful analysis, US military commanders had determined downing the balloon while over land posed an undue risk to people across a wide area due to the size and altitude of the balloon and its surveillance payload," Austin said further and added, "In accordance with the President's direction, the Department of Defense developed options to take down the balloon safely over our territorial waters, while closely monitoring its path and intelligence collection activities." The balloon was shot down just after it left the mainland and was above water, off the coast of South Carolina. "We're gonna take care of it," President Biden told reporters just hours before, when asked if the US will shoot down the balloon. Earlier in the afternoon the Federal Aviation Agency, the US aviation regulator, had closed airspace around the time of the shooting and shut down three airports in preparation. Witnesses recounted in TV interviews and on social media that they saw several fighter jets around the balloon for 30 to 40 minutes before it was shot down. The balloon caused major spike in tensions between the US and China, just as the two sides ere hoping to build on the first-ever in-person summit of President Biden and President Xi Jinping. The US described the balloon an "unacceptable" violation of US sovereignty and ed to the postponement of Secretary of State Antony Blinken's high profile visit to Beijing this week. Beijing had in an unprecedented act of contrition expressed regrets for the balloon straying into American airspace and said the airship was "civilian in nature, used for meteorological and other scientific research. Due to the influence of westerly winds and its limited control capability, the airship deviated from its intended course" That the first official word on the shooting of the balloon came from the president himself was due to the the heat he was getting from Republicans. "China's brazen disregard for US sovereignty is a destabilizing action that must be addressed, and President Biden cannot be silent," House of Representatives' Republican Speaker Kevin McCarthy wrote in a tweet. "Would Trump have let China fly a spy balloon over our country?" asked Representative Jim Jordan, a key ally of former President Donald Trump. "Would Reagan? JFK? Truman? No, no, no, and no." "So why's Biden letting China off the hook?" Biden had already issued the kill-order, unknown to them. New Delhi, Feb 5 : The Special Cell of the Delhi Police have arrested a Mumbai-based based member of an inter-state syndicate of Counterfeit Indian Currency Coin (FICC). Ingit Pratap Singh, the DCP of the Special Cell, said that fake Indian coins in the denomination of Rs 10 having face value of Rs 9,46,000 were recovered from the accused, identified as Jignesh Gala. "Gala was part of the previous module busted in April 2022, wherein FICC to the face value of Rs 10,48,540 was recovered and the manufacturing unit was busted," Singh added. The mastermind of the racket namely Naresh Kumar was arrested in April 2022, and fake currency coins were recovered from him. Later on, at his instance a manufacturing unit cum godown was unearthed at Charkhi Dadri, Haryana and four of his associates were arrested. "During the investigation of accused persons and other evidences collected on record, it was revealed that bulk of FICCs was manufactured by this syndicate and was supplied to different destinations all over country including Mumbai. To unearth the whole nexus and members of the syndicate, backtrail investigation was carried out," the official said. The police got a tip off about Gala and he was found to be in Mumbai. A team was sent there and he was held from Malad area of Mumbai. "During interrogation Gala has disclosed that he has been involved in the procuring and supplying of fake currency coins for last eight years. Initially, he used to collect currency coins from banks in Surat, local businessman, traders of old currency," the official said. Further investigation is in progress to verify the other sources and receivers of the syndicate. The Global Energy Association held the first ever Regional to Global conference in Latin America. The event, held at the crossroads of the MERCOSUR integration association (Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, Uruguay), in the Uruguayan city of Punta del Este, was dedicated to the role of Latin America in the world energy and the prospects of using clean energy sources in the region. Alfonso Blanco, the Secretary General of the Latin American Energy Organization (OLADE), Fitzgerald Cantero, the National Director for Energy in the Uruguay Ministry of Industry, Energy and Mining, and Vadim Titov, the President of Rusatom International Network, participated in the first session called Latin America in World Energy Agenda. Fitzgerald Cantero emphasised that renewables play a key role in the energy supply of Latin American countries, while ensuring relatively low generation costs. "The share of renewables (except for hydropower) in primary energy consumption in Latin America is 33%, while for the rest of the world this figure is 18%. However, due to the differentiated structure of renewable sources, this does not result in an increase in the cost of electricity for end customers. Moreover, the energy system is also less likely to be destabilised due to fluctuating commodity prices and fossil fuel shortages. That's why the region's energy system proved its strength last year," Cantero said. In his speech, Alfonso Blanco mentioned the current state of affairs and the development prospects of the energy sector in Latin America in the context of the global crisis of supply. The energy programmes of our countries should be aimed not only at passing the energy transition and diversifying energy sources, but also at promoting socio-economic development and improving the living standards of the citizens of our countries, Blanco emphasised. In his opinion, large oil and gas reserves are the main source of the region's development. Budget revenues from oil exports in Brazil reach 20%, in Venezuela more than 40%, and in some years, they reached 60%, while in Colombia and Mexico this figure is 10% and 13%, respectively. Therefore, a one-time rejection of oil is, in fact, a rejection of budget revenues, a rejection of our development opportunities, he said. Nuclear power plants form one of the four sides of the green square, which also includes hydro, solar, and wind energy. However, wind, solar, and hydro power production can be affected by calm, cloudy and dry weather, while nuclear power plants are able to supply consumers 24/7. At the same time, the cost of electricity generated at nuclear power plants does not depend on fluctuations in uranium prices, which makes it possible for strategic state planning for decades to come. This is why nuclear power plants are an integral part of the low-carbon energy mix of the future, Vadim Titov said. The second session was dedicated to the challenges of clean energy availability in the region and the nuclear energy development in Latin America. It was moderated by Lorena Di Chiara, the research fellow from Energy and Sustainable Development Observatory with the Catholic University (Uruguay). The discussion engaged the following distinguished figures: Kaushik Rajashekara (USA), the Global Energy Prize laureate, Distinguished Professor of the University of Houston; Ruben Chaer, Technical Manager of the Uruguays Electricity Market Administration; Gonzalo Casaravilla, the ex-President of the National Department of Power Plants and Electricity Transmission of Uruguay; Ivan Dybov, the Vice-President of Brazilian Association for Nuclear Industry Development, President of Rosatom's regional centre in Latin America; and William Byun (Singapore), the Global Energy Prize International Award Committee member, Managing Director at Asia Renewables Gonzalo Casaravilla emphasised that achieving universal access to electricity is impossible without improving the welfare of the poorest countries in the region, including Haiti. Today, technically, there is a complete set of tools to ensure that all Latin Americans have access to electricity. However, in Haiti, for example, a huge part of the population does not have money not only to pay for electricity, but also to buy food. Without meeting basic needs, it is impossible to increase access to electricity, Casaravilla noted. Ruben Chaer dwelled on the issue of managing the energy systems with high share of renewables. According to him, an accurate weather forecast is important for predicting the load of hydroelectric power plants, as well as solar and wind generators. Weather forecasts are taken into account by automated systems (robots and drones) that distribute the load between different types of power plants. This simplifies the operational balancing of the power system, Chaer emphasised. William Byun drew attention to the importance of thorough studying of the microgrids operating on the basis of renewable energy sources. The value of the microgrids capable of assuring stable energy supplies in the isolated territories will be rapidly growing in the forthcoming years, William Byun stated. An example is Indonesia - a country consisting of 17 islands, of which only 3 are united in a common network. The remaining islands are supplied autonomously, which is relevant for Latin America, where a number of small settlements do not have access to electricity, the expert added. Ivan Dybov spoke about the new energy strategy of Brazil, which provides for the commissioning of 8-10 gigawatts of nuclear power plants by 2050. At the same time, the construction of not only large nuclear power plants, but also small-capacity nuclear power plants is being discussed. This should increase the sustainability of the country's energy system, which is currently largely dependent on hydropower, the expert noted. Kaushik Rajashekara, the Global Energy Prize laureate, spoke on the initiatives to counteract the energy shortage based on examples from the Indian reservations in the US and from rural areas of India. In rural India, solar panels are used for both electricity generation and cooking. At the same time, not only coal, but also rare sources are used for energy supply: for example, rice husks and household waste are used as raw materials for biomass power plants, Rajashekara explained. Overall, the conference showed that in the coming years, Latin America will demonstrate a growing demand for energy sources that combine low emissions and security of energy supply, including nuclear generation, as well as solar, wind and hydropower. This applies both to the most densely populated agglomerations of the region, which are increasing energy demand due to economic growth, and to remote areas that need uninterrupted power supply while isolated from the public grid. OP Investment Management, GROW Investment Group together with RCM China Consulting have jointly announced that they have entered a tri-party strategic joint venture. The purpose of the joint venture is to provide a one-stop China alternative investment solution. OP Investment Management (OPIM), one of Asias leading hedge fund platforms, RCM China Consulting (RCMCC), and GROW Investment Group (GROW), a leading China-focused institutional advisor, have jointly announced that they have entered a tri-party strategic joint venture. The purpose of the joint venture is to provide a one-stop China alternative investment solution. Recently, GROWs localized product design offering has been added to OPIMs and RCMCCs joint platform to bring established PRC onshore strategies directly to institutional investors via managed accounts and direct market access. The three firms have established investment and compliance infrastructure to deliver cross-border opportunities for offshore investors, to meet the demand for actively managed strategies for the Chinese mainland markets. The demand has increased significantly due to investor optimism for a rebound in the Chinese markets and appetite for actively managed strategies. Alvin Fan, CEO of OPIM commented With over 30 years experience in Greater China, OPIM is taking our award-winning structuring and incubation expertise to help build the most robust and scalable solutions through Hong Kong. Its more than just a license. Its about navigating the evolving regulatory space that comes with market liberalization. With the right ingredients and partners, professional investors can drive uncorrelated returns out of previously untouched markets, such as the commodities futures. PRC regulators recently released 41 new derivative products allowed to be traded by offshore investors via the Qualified Foreign Investor (QFI) license. Williams (William Ma) track record of identifying alpha drivers and more importantly his bespoke approach to institutional due diligence speaks for itself. More importantly, these resonate with OPIMs values and standards. William Ma, CIO of GROW, added, With over 20 years of on-the-ground investment experience in the domestic China market over the cycles, we called the bottom months ago in early Nov 2022 with the billion-dollar tweet on the China market. Investors who partnered with us are well prepared to position themselves for the coming run. While the markets have rebounded 50%, we see entry opportunities still for actively managed strategies ranging from Convertible Bond strategies to Commodities Futures. Together with OPIM and RCMCC, we plan to build FoF/MoM product that will tap into the track record of well-established onshore managers whove fared well over this last bear cycle. Matthew Bradbard, Head of RCM China Consulting stated, Weve been working with onshore investors and Western strategies since 2018. Weve identified talented managers both in onshore and offshore markets. Our trader network and investors are thrilled to get access, but we need to ensure scalability throughout the ecosystem. By this, I mean a strategys edge can be capacity constraint by markets but certainly not by structure. RCM China Consulting is led by Matthew Bradbard, with over 20 years of experience in the financial markets primarily in the exchanged traded futures space. Bradbard and his RCMCC team have developed an expertise on the Chinese markets through a subsidiary consulting & technology entity incorporated in Mainland China. The team has consulted with investors and traders about China access via WFOE, QFI and TRS programs. To date, nearly 1B RMB of Mainland capital has been invested by Chinese Capital partners, that utilize market signals and data analysis procured by RCMCC. Execution is also handled by RCMCC with their proprietary OMS that has been written to 4 Mainland China Independent software vendors thus far. Bradbard is confident that RCMCC and his team are facing extraordinary growth opportunities. About OP Investment Management Ltd. OPIM is a leading Hong Kong based asset management company established and licensed since 2004 with Hong Kong Securities and Futures Commission (the SFC) to carry out Type 4 (advising on securities) and 9 (asset management) regulated activities under the provisions of the Securities and Futures Ordinance (Cap.571) (the HK SFO). The company is also a member of the Oriental Patron Financial Group and associate of OP Financial Investments Ltd. (Hong Kong publicly listed 1140.HK). OPIM partners with emerging managers to develop innovative strategies for institutional and professional investors. OPIMs institutional fund platform attracts both managers and investors from around the world working with the industrys best business partners in alternative asset management. For more information: http://www.opim.com.hk About GROW Investment Group GROW Investment Group is a China-based global asset management company backed by reputable financial institutions such as Julius Baer and Lighthouse Partners. The asset manager has 6 offices in mainland China with a team of 40 investment professionals managing over 15 domestic China alternative investment products. GROW's goal is to capitalize on the robust growth opportunities in the Chinese asset management industry and the continued evolution of China's markets; to become China's leading institutional asset management platform offering a diversified suite of global investment products for Domestic Chinese and Global Investors alike. GROW invests across the alternative asset classes with a focus on hedge funds and niche alternative investment strategies, with an aspiration to operate at the highest investment, operation, and ethical standards; and to be a leader in driving global best practices. GROWs founder and CIO, William Ma, is the Global board of director of CAIA Association, Standard Board of Alternative Investment (SBAI) Asia Pacific Committee Member and China QDLP approval panel advisor for Shanghai Finance Bureau. For more information: http://www.growim.com About RCM China Consulting RCMCC is headquartered in Chicago with a branch office located in Shanghai. RCM China Consulting has a subsidiary WFOE JinZhiShang which was established and incorporated in 2018 in Mainland China acting as a gateway for investors and traders desiring China exposure. JinZhiShang collaborates with China MoMs and AMAC PFMs. RCM China Consulting Services is registered as an exempt CTA in the US. JinZhiShang has good standing and is registered as a Consulting and Technology WFOE in Shanghai, China. For more information: http://www.rcmalternatives.com I would highly recommend Crimson Cup. Without them, I am not sure we would still be open let alone opening a second location. - Stephanie Miller, Owner of Coffee in the Valley in Valley City, Ohio, and Sandstone Coffee House in Amherst, Ohio. The heart of downtown Amherst, Ohio, has a new hot spot for locals to get together over amazing coffee and delicious eats! Sandstone Coffee House at 254 Park Avenue invites guests to enjoy a cozy, home-like atmosphere, award-winning coffee, and a growing menu of breakfast and lunch food options. The new coffee house represents a homecoming for Lorain-area natives Sean and Stephanie Miller. Its also their second coffee restaurant. In 2019, they opened Coffee in the Valley at 6663 Center Road in Valley City, Ohio. Thir idea of owning and managing coffee shops began as a someday dream, according to Stephanie Miller. I was an elementary school teacher, and my husband is an accountant. How did this lead to a coffee shop? While walking through Valley City one evening, they noticed a building for sale. It was a former bank with a drive-thru lane. We joked around about buying the bank, she said. Little did we know, a few short months later, we would be on our way to opening Coffee in the Valley! To achieve their dream and learn how to open a coffee shop, the couple turned to Crimson Cup and its 7 Steps to Success coffee shop startup program. Based on the book, Seven Steps to Success: a Common-sense Guide to Succeed in Specialty Coffee by Crimson Cup Founder and President Greg Ubert, the program guides new owners of independent coffee shops from dream through opening day and beyond. The roasters 7 Steps coffee shop startup consulting team assists new owners in choosing a profitable location, writing a solid coffee shop business plan, designing and laying out the new shop, training baristas, and much more. Without Crimson Cup, we would have struggled getting started, Stephanie said. We knew nothing beforehand about making coffee and espresso. We were just following a dream. After three successful years at Coffee in the Valley, the Millers learned a building in downtown Amherst was available. We both grew up in the Lorain area, and this is home, Stephanie said. Its good to come back to our roots. At Sandstone Coffee House, she plans to duplicate many of the features that have driven Coffee in the Valleys success. Were known in Valley City for our top-notch coffee, friendly service, and varied menu, she said. In Amherst, we plan to have pastries, breakfast and lunch options, sandwiches, soups, and more. She sees consistency as the key to her successful expansion. We make sure were consistent with staffing, policies, the owners time in the shop, and making sure the staff at both locations feels supported. Crimson Cups hands-on training, held at each shop the week before opening, has helped her baristas deliver espresso-based drinks that consistently taste great. One customer commented that our drinks taste the same at both shops, always, and she loves that! Both shops have a comfortable, home-like feel. We like to offer a variety of seating choices and warm and bright lighting. And our staff at both shops is amazing! Expanding to two shops has created challenges and opportunities. I run around like crazy now, and our staff was a little concerned at first about not getting enough of my time, she said. Just figuring out how to keep everything supplied and on a schedule was a challenge, but now we have backup inventory if we run out of supplies at one store. Plus, we have so many more opportunities to invest in our communities and get to know so many people! We are open for events, even if they are on days we are closed or after hours. We also display local high school art, host poetry readings, and support school and community events." Crimson Cups Customer Growth team has helped Miller solve problems and brainstorm opportunities for both locations. Her favorite part about working with Crimson Cup? They have an amazing staff thats extremely supportive and responsive. Our orders come on time, and we have had almost no mistakes in our three and a half years of working with the company. As the proud owner of two independent coffee shops, Stephanie has this advice for prospective coffee shop owners: I would highly recommend Crimson Cup. Without them, I am not sure we would still be open let alone opening a second location. Sean and Stephanie Miller invite everyone in Northeast Ohio to visit their coffee shops in Valley City and Amherst, Ohio. Make sure you bring a friend or a book, Stephanie said. You are going to want to stay for a while. We can't wait to serve you! Sandstone Coffee House is open Monday through Saturday at 254 Park Avenue. Follow the shops Facebook page for news, featured drinks, and other updates. Coffee in the Valley is open Monday through Saturday at 6663 Center Road in Valley City, Ohio. Follow their Facebook page for the latest news. About Crimson Cup Coffee & Tea Founded in 1991, Crimson Cup is at the forefront of the coffee industry. Its attentive roasting, startup support and global partnerships are consciously designed for the greater good of communities around the world. Among other national recognitions, the company has earned 2020 and 2017 Good Food Awards, the 2019 Golden Bean Champion for Small Franchise/Chain Roaster and Roast magazines 2016 Macro Roaster of the Year. Crimson Cup travels the world searching for the perfect cup driven by meaningful relationships, honesty and a shared vision for the future. Its Friend2Farmer initiatives foster respect and decency through mutually beneficial collaboration across local and global communities. Through its 7 Steps to Success coffee shop startup program, the company teaches entrepreneurs how to open and run independent coffee houses in their local communities. By developing a coffee shop business plan, entrepreneurs gain insight into coffee shop startup costs. Crimson Cup coffee is available through over 350 independent coffee houses, grocers, college and universities, restaurants and food service operations across 30 states, Guam and Bangladesh. The company also owns several Crimson Cup Coffee Shops and a new CRIMSON retail flagship store. To learn more, visit crimsoncup.com, or follow the company on Facebook and Instagram. Under book publishings trending best practices, historical authenticity can be secondary to appeasing peoples sensitivities. Im qualified to say this based on my recent experience as a literary agent on behalf of a client. The events in question began happily: my client received a Big Five contract for a book about his time as a Marine sniper during the Vietnam War, when he was 17. The original manuscript (written with the assistance of a coauthor) told his story in the context of its time and place, including florid verbatim language and descriptions that wouldnt be appropriate in other settings, then or now. Historical authenticity and truthfulness were the authors priorities. The manuscript passed the publishers editorial and legal protocols with relatively few revisions, and no additional hurdles were expected. In fairness, the editors good news email included a brief statement that the manuscript still needed to pass a so-called sensitivity read, but we werent told what that was or given any reason for concern. I had never heard of it and didnt give it a second thought. Instead, I asked the editor to request the second advance payment due upon acceptance for publication. But my assumptions were wrong. Ive since learned that sensitivity reads are a recent and potentially powerful layer of scrutiny some books are subjected to. Evidently, they have been in use by some childrens publishers for several years. I dont know which adult publishers may have adapted them, if they are uniformly structured and empowered, or if any written mission statements or guidelines exist. I can only write about my experience. If properly conceived and used, sensitivity reads can be beneficial for all stakeholders, especially authors. Any manuscript can be potentially infected with inadvertently offensive content that serves no meaningful purpose. For instance, I represent many older backlist titles that possess unacceptable language by current standards but that, when written, seemed innocent. We make an effort to discover and rewrite those segments without distorting the (often deceased) authors meaning. The key is trying to remain as true as possible to the authors original intent. Manipulating or sanitizing history will not cure what ails us. Under the threat of having his book deal terminated, my client was forced to meaningfully modify his manuscript to accommodate a five-page document full of subjective complaints about how the Vietnam War was fought by the author and his co-combatants, the unfiltered descriptions of his horrific experiences, and the unsavory language used by the mostly very young men who were there on behalf of their country. The sensitivity review was written by one person. This person was hired by the publisher, and no information about their qualifications, or who might have reviewed their review, was provided. No appeals or rebuttals were allowed. My author reluctantly complied in full. I actually agree with many of the sensitivity readers sentiments. Everything about that war was appalling. But why sanitize it? It should be depicted exactly as it happened. Following the publishers logic would be equal to transforming the My Lai Massacre into a misunderstanding with unpleasant consequences that shouldnt be discussed because its too upsetting for some people. I felt the publisher endowed the sensitivity readers report with the unilateral power to censor my clients book, which raises serious questions. How are sensitivity readers recruited and what qualifies them? Are their personal views and experiences taken into account? More problematically, how can a persons feelings qualify as objective or open-minded? How is it possible to oppose a persons feelings without at least partially invalidating them? Should the need for accuracy be enmeshed with feelings? What outcomes are publishers looking for? Manipulating or sanitizing history will not cure what ails us. And publishers, especially, should understand the perils of going down this road. We cant lose sight of the need to stay true to our authors ideas and characterizations. Jeff Herman is a literary agent and author. In Oh My Mother! A Memoir in Nine Adventures (Viking, May), Connie Wang, a former executive editor at Refinery29, documents her evolving relationship with her mother through trips theyve taken together. Wang spoke with PW about the privileges and challenges of travel, and what its like to interact with a stripper in front of your mom. Why do you call yours an accidental immigrant story? We were accidental because it was always supposed to be a temporary stint abroad. Dad came to the U.S. to get a PhD soon after China opened, and my mother visited for what she thought was going to be only a year. In 1988 he came to Nebraska, and when the Tiananmen Square protests started happening, he was energized by student involvement. His photo was taken at a protest, and it was no longer safe to go back. My parents took advantage of the green card program and decided to stay. I was two when we arrived, and four when we decided to stay. How does travel offer a window onto your relationship with your mother? Its a journey every child goes through: coming to the understanding that your parents are full human beings. It wasnt until I traveled with my mother as an adult that I saw her go through a big change, saw her think about what she felt was worthwhile, the opportunities she had. By traveling, seeing places out of her context, unfamiliar from either a western or mainland China point of view, she could understand who she was. And I began to understand her as multidimensional. For many reasons, my mother and I are often ignored in our day-to-day world. We dont stick out, people dont see us, we dont feel very visible, which can also be a blessing. She was able to change how she interacted with people depending on where she was, which allowed her to feel she could make those changes. She became more open-minded and could let go of the rigidity that used to guide her decisions. Travel has so many minor inconveniences, and theyre never as bad as you think theyre going to beyou have to adjust or youll never enjoy your trip. What was the most surprising journey you took with your mother? The Magic Mike Show in Las Vegas, which I never thought Id do with my mother. Like, absolutely not! But that trip just exceeded my expectations. She did that trip her own way: Normally you go with girlfriends, you drink, you participate with the dancers. She went and didnt drink and didnt say a word. I got pulled up in the latter half, which was a mortifying experience, but she filmed it and was really proud of me. She loved the movies, especially the Andie MacDowell charactershe took away the message that older women were desirable and valuable, which she loved. When they announced that there would be a live show, I threw out the idea of our going as a joke, and she forced my hand. What have you learned from your travels? The biggest lesson was humility. Travel has been sold to Midwestern Americans very specifically as time away from your life, a reset where you get pampered like a baby. While we traveled I really thought about what a privilege it was for us to be there, to understand how things are somewhere else, to learn the etiquette and the mores, even if you dont agree with them. When we traveled to places with customs very different from ours, we were forced out of our comfort zones, which was exhausting but also rewarding. What adventures will you take with your own son? I gave birth during the pandemic, and honestly, Ive gotten too comfortable staying put. I need a kick start to get traveling again. I want my son to be brave about new experiences; in new situations hes an observer first and participates eagerly afterward. I want to see him eagerly try out new places and explore the world. Return to main feature. As dark as my books get, theyre always about the hope that can push up through the darkness, Dennis Lehane says via Zoom from his home in Los Angeles. The word hope, Id bet, shows up more in my books than anything other than the f-bomb. Its hope and feckin hope. Feckin hope is everywhere. Lehane has written 13 novels, several of which (Gone, Baby, Gone; Mystic River; Shutter Island) have been turned into movies, and has worked on shows including The Wire and Mr. Mercedes. Though Lehanes literary success is immensehis books have sold more than 10 million copies worldwide, according to Harper, his publisher, and have been translated into 37 languagesthe demands of writing novels have taken their toll. He even wonders whether Small Mercies, his new novel publishing in April, could be his last. Writing prose got harder for me with every book, Lehane says. The better you are at this, the harder it gets. This could be my last book, or I could wake up tomorrow and have a story I have to tell. I dont know. If its my last I think its a good bookenda nice mic drop. Small Mercies is set in Boston in 1974, when the citys public schools were ordered by a court to desegregate and student busing was put into effect, sparking protests and riots. I had wanted to address school busing my entire career, Lehane says. The story of Boston is the story of busing. Lehane grew up in the rough-and-tumble Boston neighborhood of Dorchester, one of five children raised by Irish immigrant parents. As a kid, he was exposed to a lot of casual racism. People I saw every day were using the n-word, he says. My parents didnt do it, but almost everybody else I knew did. It gives you a disturbing entree into the human condition. Racism is passed down like bad genes. Lehane was nine in 1974 and remembers seeing an anti-desegregation protest while riding in the car with his father, who took a wrong turn into the path of picketers. This was the galvanizing event of my life, he says. I thought, this is adult society? This is what were supposed to be looking up to? Small Mercies tells the tense story of a white South Boston mom whos trying to find her missing teen daughter. The girl has been implicated in the death of a black teen on the eve of the busing crisis. Lehane wrote the thriller in 2021, in New Orleans, while working on the Golden Globewinning crime drama miniseries Black Bird, which he created. The novels flawed characters arent always easy to root forand thats how Lehane likes it. I want my characters to be contradictory, he explains. Were all fucked up as a species. Theres good in the worst of us, bad in the best of us. I find that paradox infinitely fascinating to write about. Ann Rittenberg, Lehanes agent, says Lehane has a palpable enthusiasm for his craft. When hes cracked the spine of a new story he sounds like a kid at Christmas, she notes. People think that because theres a dark side to his writing, hes a moody person, but youd enjoy having a beer with Dennis more than anyone else. Hes an old soul, an empath. The distinctiveness of his voice brings an immediacy to his characters. Noah Eaker, Lehanes editor at Harper, says, Dennis is constantly evolving. Every book shows a mastery of his subject. With Small Mercies I was under the spell of the mystery and, in the end, realized that Dennis was saying so much more about power and the ways its wielded in our communitiesabout a legacy of racism that the country doesnt seem able to overcome. Lehane hustled in his 20s to become a writer. After getting a masters degree in creative writing from Florida International University, he wrote stories while working side jobs (parking cars, tending bar). I knew I couldnt fail, he says. His debut, A Drink Before the War, was published in 1994. I didnt want to wind up back at the Banshee on Dot Avenue and have my friends say, Hey Hemingway, bring me a Bud. Not happening. A wiz at creating cinematic novels, Lehane was tapped in 2003 to write scripts for The Wire. Though he confesses, I didnt know what I was doing, his success there led to a second career in Hollywood. In 2013, he left Boston for L.A., where he lives with his wife, a teacher he met in 2018 through friends, and his two daughters from his first marriage. I was always an East Coast guy, he says. Youre only real if youre from New York, Chicago, Boston, or Philly. Everyone else is nobodies from nowherethat was my mentality. But I love it here. Lehane has a deal with Apple TV+, where hes creating a series based on Small Mercies, as well as a series about arsonists inspired by the true crime podcast Firebug. He enjoys the collaborative atmosphere of a writers rooma less lonely world than that of the novelist. I meet so many writers who are comfortable being alone or theyre socially awkward, and Im not that way, he says. I like people. Amy Schiffman, whos been Lehanes books-to-film agent for nearly 20 years, has watched him excel in the competitive film industry. Working with Dennis is a joy, Schiffman says. Even though hes extremely successful, hes grateful for everything. He has a big heart and is generous with other writers, particularly those who want to do what he does. Gillian Flynn, author of Gone Girl, credits Lehane with helping her become a writer. Reading Mystic River enabled me to figure out how to write my first novel, Flynn says. Im a Lehane-ologist. Ive studied his storytelling for a long time. Hes one of the greats. He has this terrifying brilliance at taking on spiky, nasty truths in a way thats brutally frank but incredibly human. The secret to Lehanes success may be his ability to approach each story like its the last. Ive worked my ass off on everything Ive written, he says. Im proud of my work ethic. The guilt you feel as a child of immigrants who gets successful can only be mitigated by that. My old man, if he was still alive, would ask, Are you working hard? Yes. Well then, there you go. Cutting any corners? No. Well then, there you go. Elaine Szewczyks writing has appeared in McSweeneys and other publications. Shes the author of the novel Im with Stupid. DEAL OF THE WEEK Reid Re-ups at Putnam Bestseller and Booker Prize longlistee Kiley Reid (Such a Fun Age) sold Come and Get It to her standing publisher, Putnam. Sally Kim took North American rights to the novel, slated for January 2024, from William Morris Endeavors Claudia Ballard. Putnam said Come and Get It is a provocative story about a residential assistant and her messy entanglement with a professor and three unruly students that paints a fresh and intimate portrait of desire, consumption, and reckless abandon. Ward Descends at Scribner Scribners Kathy Belden bought world English rights to Let Us Descend, by two-time National Book Award winner and MacArthur fellow Jesmyn Ward. Scribner will publish the novel in October and described it as a reimagining of American slavery. Let Us Descend is Wards first work of historical fiction and follows an enslaved teenager named Annis who, after being sold by her white father, is led on foot to plantations and a slave market in the South. Scribner added that the novel melds elements of Dantes Inferno, magical realism, and slave narratives as it explores what lies beyond this world: in our lived experiences and after our deaths. Ward was represented by Rob McQuilkin at Massie & McQuilkin Literary Agents. Akerstrom Goes to Morrow For six figures, William Morrows Asante Simons took U.S., Canadian, and open market rights to two books by Lola Akinmade Akerstrom (In Every Mirror Shes Black). The first, her sophomore effort, is a currently untitled novel due out this fall that follows, Morrow said, the intertwined, messy lives of three Black women, all immigrants in Sweden, as they navigate their own personal struggles and the prejudices of Swedish society. Jessica Craig at Craig Literary represented Akerstrom. Bloomsbury Embraces Kellys Liberals For Bloomsbury, Anton Mueller nabbed world rights to Joseph Kellys The Liberals: How America Learned to Tell the Truth, Beat the Fascists and Create a Free World. Bloomsbury said the book, slated for winter 2025 and sold by Jacqueline Flynn at Joelle Delbourgo Associates, examines Americas culture wars of the 1920s and 30s and reveals the heroic tale of a second generation of foundersactivists, writers, artists, publishers, professors, jurists, and journalistswho defeated the forces of fascism to save American democracy. Cox Sells Missy Memoir Aimee Meredith Cox, a professor of anthropology at NYU, sold North American rights to the memoir What Killed Missy? to Allison Lorentzen at Viking in a preempt. The book traces the authors upbringing in Ohio with her best friend, Margaret Missy Allen, and their ensuing lives, leading up to Allens murder at the hands of her boyfriend in 2008. The publisher said the book explores the interlocking systems of racism, misogyny, and violence that adversely affect Black women in America. The Cheney Agencys Adam Eaglin represented Cox. Sourcebooks Gets Goth Guide Sourcebooks Erin McClary nabbed world English rights to Goth Girls Guide to Travel, the latest by The Science of Serial Killers coauthors Kelly Florence and Meg Hafdahl. They were represented by Stacey Kondla at the Rights Factory, and the book, the publisher explained, is a travel guide detailing the locations of horror films and books, true crime, and dark history found throughout America, with a female bent. Pomp and Circumspect Mike Pompeo, who served as CIA director and secretary of state in the Trump administration, has the #4 book in the country with the memoir Never Give an Inch. Aspiring presidential candidates often test the waters with a political memoir; the Washington Post, in its most recent bimonthly ranking of the 10 candidates it deems mostly likely to be the Republican nominee, had Pompeo at #7, though he, like everyone else except for the president he served under, has yet to declare. The Posts likeliest Republican candidate, Florida governor Ron DeSantis, has a memoir coming out at the end of the month: The Courage to Be Free. Mass Appeal Mass market paperbacks represent a fraction of the market4% of sales in 2022. Still, the format has its stalwart authors and fans, and this week sees a couple of newer faces join the lists more familiar names. Pamela Desmond Wright, who wrote paranormals and romances for years under a pseudonym, began publishing under her own name in 2021 with The Cowboys Amish Haven, which has sold more than 12K print copies. Her third Amish romance, The Amish Bachelors Bride, lands at #7 on our mass market list. At #10, the Christian romantic suspense novel Ranch Under Fire is Tina Wheelers debut.For those of you who have the same dream of writing for Harlequin, dont give up, Wheeler wrote on her blog. Continue to learn your craft and write, write, write. Royalty Statement Prince Harrys Spare sits at the top of the list for the third week in a row, besting the #2 book, Colleen Hoovers It Ends with Us, by more than 20K print units. Courtiers by Valentine Low, royal correspondent for the Times, may be pretty far down in the line of successionit debuts at #10 on our hardcover nonfiction listbut with lines like Harry looked like a sulky teenager, forced against his will to talk to some unwelcome visitors (written about the prince at age 34), its not afraid to punch up. NEW & NOTABLE THE BULLET GARDEN Stephen Hunter #20 Hardcover Fiction Hunters superb fourth Earl Swagger novel details the snipers origin story, per our starred review, beginning at the military installation at Parris Island, S.C., in 1944. Terrific writing, amusing literary references, fascinating gun lore, and intense action scenes help make this one of Hunters best. RECOVERY ROAD Christine Feehan #1 Mass Market This is book 8 in Feehans Torpedo Ink paranormal romance series, about a motorcycle club whose members survived childhood torture in Russia and who now, according to the books first chapter, spend a good deal of their time hunting pedophiles and those running human trafficking rings. I met Gina Centrello in 1999, so the surprise news that she has retired as head of the Random House Publishing Group struck a personal chord with me. Our first meeting came shortly after Gina had been named publisher of Ballantine Books, and, since I had a multibook deal with the house, she was now going to be my boss. I had worked with two extremely talented publishersLinda Grey and Claire Ferrarroand was sorry I would no longer be writing for them. But, while I was excited about working with Gina, I was taken aback at the panic that set in among some agents and editors at her arrival. Several authors were looking for ways out of their contracts, and others were fielding calls from agents to gauge interest in jumping to another publisher. I was one of the writers who got such a call. Has she said she wants me to leave? I asked my then literary agent. No. Well, then maybe I should set up a lunch, I said. After all, she is Italian. That doesnt mean anything, my agent said. Not to you, I said. But there was a time when Italians couldnt get published. And now theres going to be one running the shop. Evan Hunter, aka Ed McBain, among other pen names, was a friend and I remembered him telling me how difficult it was to sell his first novel in the 1950s. He was down to his last few dollars and asked his agent if the book was the problem. His agent told him the book was not the issue. It was his name. His real nameSalvatore Lambino. They werent going to bite on a book with that name on the cover. Salvatore went home and came up with as non-Italian a name as he could: Evan Hunter. Within a week, that novelThe Blackboard Junglesold to publishers and, a short while later, to Hollywood where it was made into a hit film. I called Evan and told him about Gina getting hired. I dont like hearing this news, Evan said. I love hearing this news. Evan never forgot he had to change his name to get a book into the stores. So, I set a lunch with Gina. I knew the second we met I wasnt going anywhere. She was smart, funny, and didnt dance around the words. She had something to say, and she wasted no time in saying it. She knew other writers were looking to get out of their contracts and, while it may have taken her by surprise, she didnt let it get in the way. If they didnt want to work with her, she was going to stick with the writers who did. I stayed, and it was one of the best decisions I have made. Gina became more than my publisher. She became my friend. A true friend shows up not just during good times, when the dice are rolling your way, but most especially during the dark days, when the brutality life often brings lands at your door. That brutality happened for me in the winter of 2012, when my wife of three decades, Susan Toepfer, was diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer. It was during that time, when every day seems shrouded in darkness, that Gina showed up in a big way. She called. She emailed. She called again. She emailed again. Always checking on menot as a publisher concerned about meeting a deadline, but as someone concerned about her friend as he watched someone he loved fight a battle against a disease that never surrenders. I managed to finish one book during Susans illness. But after she died on Christmas Eve 2013, I shut it down. Gina checked in on a regular basis. She never mentioned the missed deadlines. Instead, she asked about my children, my dog, my next trip to Italy. I was the one who brought up the fear that I would never write another book. Susan was my first reader and a top-tier editor in her own right. Gina assured me I would go back to writing books for no other reason than that I loved it. As was often the case, she was right. It took longer than either of us expected, but I went back, determined to make up for lost time. Since 2019, I have written and published five books and am now working on my sixth. There are many reasons for this output, but Gina ranks at the top. With Ginas retirement, she leaves behind an imposing legacy and a first-rate team of talent. I am still with Ballantine/Bantam and am lucky enough to be in the company of professionals I once admired from afar and now get to work with on a regular basis. But there is little doubt I will miss Gina Centrello. A great publisher. And, even more, my forever friend. Lorenzo Carcaterras next book, Nonna Maria and the Case of the Stolen Necklace, will be published by Bantam in May. Penguin Random Houses bid to buy Simon & Schuster was always going to change the future of the worlds largest trade book publisher, but the remake is not happening along the lines former PRH CEO (and current CEO emeritus) Markus Dohle had originally planned. The ruling by Judge Florence Pan that stopped the acquisition set off a string of events that included Dohles resignation, the promotion of PRH US COO Nihar Malaviya to interim global CEO, and PRH US CEO Madeline McIntoshs decision, announced last week, to step down once she has helped Malaviya complete the creation of a new organizational structure for PRH. Though the restructuring is still a work in progress, its goal is to reinvigorate internal competition for new titles among PRHs many imprints while also providing multiple touch points for agents to pitch their books to different PRH editors. The question about how aggressively different PRH imprints actually bid against one another came up during the trial of the Department of Justices suit to block PRHs S&S purchase. The reorganization will also put in place a new corporate leadership structure that is unlikely to include a new PRH US CEO. Instead, the leadership group will comprise executives from different parts of PRH (at present, there are no plans to hire someone from outside the company) who will bring different ways of thinking about the business. The new structure will also reflect PRHs commitment to its DEI initiatives and continue to feature women in positions of power. The current U.S. board, including McIntosh, is composed of 12 women and two men. In his memo to staff about McIntoshs departure and the reorg, Malaviya, who is widely expected to become the permanent global CEO, wrote that hes working closely with her to minimize any disruption to the company and all of you. I understand that changes like this naturally create unease. Please rest assured that we will move as quickly as possible. According to sources, if all goes well, the new structure could be in place by the end of February. It isnt clear if the restructuring will address the question of finding a replacement for Gina Centrello, who retired in January as president and publisher of the Random House Publishing Group. McIntosh said that with all the company has gone through over the past three yearscoping with the global pandemic, the agreement to buy S&S, and the subsequent trialshe felt the time was right to step away. I am very proud about what we have accomplished together, McIntosh told PW. Her route to becoming CEO was a circuitous one. McIntosh was named CEO in April 2018 after serving as president of the Penguin Publishing Group. She began her career at Bantam Doubleday Dell in its new media division, left publishing in 2008 to become director of Kindle content acquisition for Amazon in Luxembourg, and was recruited by Dohle to join Random House in 2009. Among the positions she has held at what is now PRH are president and COO of PRH US; publisher of Random House Audio; and director of adult sales at Random House. In her memo, McIntosh said one reason for her decision to leave is that she doesnt believe its good for CEOs to stay in their seats forever. Fresh perspectives can be incredibly healthy and helpful for organizations. She told PW she understands that with a new organization being put in place, there is no need for the old person to hang around. She added that shes itching to try something new, and while she doesnt have any firm plans in place, she would like to be at a company involved with book publishing somehow. Despite the slowing sales and higher costs that have hit the industry in recent months, McIntosh said she believes publishing is in a good place, especially for those who like to innovate. The 2023 Fins, Feathers and Flowers event at Lakepoint Resort State Park is scheduled for Feb. 17 through 19. Like the Eagle Awareness weekends held at Lake Guntersville State Park, this event offers a variety of conservation-themed activities for all ages. The park is located at 104 Lakepoint Dr., in Eufaula. Fins, Feathers and Flowers is a great introduction to the many recreational opportunities available at Lakepoint State Park, Lake Eufaula and the national wildlife refuge, said ODell Banks, Lakepoint superintendent. In recent years weve expanded our field trip offerings to include boat tours of Lake Eufaula and tours of the Wehle Land Conservation Center. Weve also added archery instruction at our recently completed community archery park. We invite anyone who is interested in the outdoors to attend. The weekend begins at 4 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 17, with a conservation fair, evening social and welcome session. Attendees will have the opportunity to meet representatives from various conservation groups throughout the state as well as Alabama State Parks naturalists and park rangers. The evenings featured speaker is farmer Allyson Andrews who will present a program entitled Talking Buzz about Bees. She is a third-generation beekeeper and owner of Andrews Double A Ranch, a farm in Eclectic. The evening will conclude with a guided night hike on Lakepoints Diverse Use Trail. Saturday morning starts with a field trip to the Eufaula National Wildlife Refuge followed by breakfast at the lodge. Several birding, wildlife watching and outdoor recreation opportunities are also planned throughout the day, including a live birds of prey program by Raptor Ridge Wildlife Education and bird photography workshops presented by Beth Cowan Drake from Huntsville. Saturdays keynote speaker is Traci Wood with the Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries Division of the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. In this presentation, she will speak about the life ecology of a bear, discuss the current population status of black bears in the state and provide tips on how to be Bear Aware in the event you are lucky enough to see a black bear in Alabama. Sunday events include breakfast at the lodge and a field trip to the Wehle Land Conservation Center in Midway, Alabama. For a complete weekend schedule, visit www.alapark.com/fins-feathers-and-flowers-weekend. Lakepoint State Park is offering a Fins, Feathers and Flowers overnight package that includes lodging for two nights and attendance at the social, dinner, breakfast, lectures, field trips and other presentations. For more information or reservations, call (334) 687-8011 or visit www.alapark.com. Premium online access is only available tosubscribers. If you have an active subscription and need to set up or change your password, please click here New to PW? To set up immediate access, click here. NOTE: If you had a previous PW subscription, click here to reactivate your immediate access. PW site license members have access to PWs subscriber-only website content. If working at an office location and you are not "logged in", simply close and relaunch your preferred browser. For off-site access, click here. To find out more about PWs site license subscription options, please email Mike Popalardo at: mike@nextstepsmarketing.com. Jay Leno's show "Jay Leno's Garage" has been canceled after an accident on a motorcycle. ADVERTISEMENT Leno has a well-documented love for cars. But lately, he hasn't had a lot of luck with them. In November, he was fixing a fuel line on a classic car -- the 1907 White Steam, when the car caught on fire. Leno suffered second-degree burns and was hospitalized. Unbeknownst to most until this week, Leno had another accident earlier this month, this time on a motorcycle when he passed through a parking lot with a low-hanging wire. The 72-year-old TV personality and comedian says he broke several bones in the crash. "Just last week, I got knocked off my motorcycle. So I've got a broken collarbone. I've got two broken ribs. I've got two cracked kneecaps," Leno told the Las Vegas Review-Journal. "But I'm OK!" he added. "I'm OK, I'm working. I'm working this weekend." CNBC sources confirmed to Deadline, The Hollywood Reporter and People that his show "Jay Leno's Garage" has been canceled. FOLLOW REALITY TV WORLD ON THE ALL-NEW GOOGLE NEWS! Reality TV World is now available on the all-new Google News app and website. Click here to visit our Google News page, and then click FOLLOW to add us as a news source! The show, which started airing in 2014, featured Leno showcasing his massive car collection and interviewing other car enthusiasts, from Jerry Seinfeld to Elon Musk The seventh season aired last fall. Leno has been at NBC since 1992, succeeding Johnny Carson on "The Tonight Show." Leno hosted it for 17 years, then agreed to pass it on to Conan O'Brien in 2009. But that didn't work out and Leno returned to the host's chair before passing the reins to Jimmy Fallon and finally signing off in 2014. "Jay Leno's Garage" started out as an NBC web series before it evolved into a CNBC show. Nina Ali is leaving "The Real Housewives of Dubai." ADVERTISEMENT The reality TV star announced her exit from the Bravo reality series Monday after one season. "It was an honor to be a part of the debut season of 'The Real Housewives of Dubai,' and to help @bravotv bring this beloved franchise to the city I call home. I'm grateful to the network, Andy Cohen, and the team at Truly Original for welcoming me into this extended family and for embracing the diversity of riches Dubai has to offer," Ali wrote on Instagram. "2023 has already brought many exciting opportunities my way, including an emerging new business, new home and new adventures, so for now I'll be moving my attention away from the show to allow myself the space to focus on new challenges," she said. "I wish my fellow Housewives all the best moving forward. I'll be cheering you on!" Ali concluded her post. Ali's "The Real Housewives of Dubai" co-star Caroline Brooks and "The Real Housewives of Dallas" star D'Andra Simmons were among those to show their support for Ali in the comments. "If I try to put into words how much I love and care about you it will take a lifetime. My Ninzzzzz," Brooks wrote. "Blessings on your new endeavors," Simmons said. FOLLOW REALITY TV WORLD ON THE ALL-NEW GOOGLE NEWS! Reality TV World is now available on the all-new Google News app and website. Click here to visit our Google News page, and then click FOLLOW to add us as a news source! "The Real Housewives of Dubai" premiered on Bravo in June. The series now stars Brooks, Chanel Ayan, Sara Al Madani, Lesa Milan and Caroline Stanbury. Pablo Lyle, a Mexican actor known for his telenovela roles, was sentenced to five years in prison minus time served after he was convicted of manslaughter stemming from a March 2019 road rage incident. ADVERTISEMENT He was also sentenced Friday in Miami to another eight years of probation and 500 hours of community service for the incident, WPLG-TV and WTVJ-TV reported. The 36-year-old actor was convicted of manslaughter in October for the death of Juan Ricardo Hernandez, a 63-year-old Cuban man who instigated the incident. Lucas Del Fino, Lyle's brother-in-law, was driving him and his family to Miami International Airport on March 31, 2019, when he took a wrong exit and cut off Hernandez as they approached a stoplight. Hernandez exited his car near the intersection and punched Del Fino's driver-side window, police said. Del Fino then got out and began yelling at Hernandez to not bang on his car, but forgot to put the vehicle into park. The car began rolling into the street and Lyle got out of the car to try to stop the vehicle. Del Fino was able to get back into his car to stop it from continuing to roll forward with the other passengers inside of it, surveillance video shows. Lyle then punched Hernandez, who fell down and suffered a head injury which he later died from at a local hospital. FOLLOW REALITY TV WORLD ON THE ALL-NEW GOOGLE NEWS! Reality TV World is now available on the all-new Google News app and website. Click here to visit our Google News page, and then click FOLLOW to add us as a news source! Del Fino took Lyle and his family to the airport after the incident but the actor did not get on the plane because his brother-in-law informed him that police were at his door and was arrested. Lyle's attorney Bruce Lehr argued that his client made a "three-second adrenaline-filled mistake" and is not a criminal. The actor delivered a tearful apology to Hernandez's family during the sentencing hearing on Friday, saying, "I can only imagine the pain of losing a loved one, someone that important, especially in a situation like this." Speaking in English, Lyle added that he hoped the sentencing would bring Hernandez's family closure and that he was "so very sorry" for the pain that he caused. "Mr. Hernandez lost his life because of something I did, something that walks with me, that haunts me when I go to bed and is still there when I wake up," Lyle said. "I never wanted any of this to happen. I never in my wildest dreams thought that something like this could have happened that a life could be lost and so many others affected so drastically because of one punch." Lyle's wife Ana Araujo also delivered a statement at the hearing Friday in Spanish, which was translated by a court translator. saying that after the incident, Lyle struggled with vomiting and "couldn't believe that this gentleman had passed away." Lyle's conviction will be "vigorously challenged on appeal," Lehr said. "He's innocent. He didn't break the law in the state of Florida. He was defending his family," the attorney said. "But the sentence was fair based on the judge's consideration of what we presented to her." "Top Chef" Season 20 will be premiering on Bravo in March. ADVERTISEMENT The cooking competition's world all-stars season will premiere March 9 at 9 p.m. EST on Bravo, with subsequent episodes to be released Thursdays. Episodes will be available to stream the next day on Peacock. Season 20 will take place in London and feature 16 returning contestants from "Top Chef" series around the globe. Padma Lakshmi will return as host, with Tom Colicchio and Gail Simmons as judges. The new season will see the former "Top Chef" winners and finalists compete for the "World All-Stars" title. The contestants will perform challenges in London before moving onto the grand finale in Paris. "From prepping a picnic at Highclere Castle to going head-to-head at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, the chefs will compete in iconic locations throughout London and the surrounding areas. These highly decorated chefs will put their spin on iconic British staples from Beef Wellington and biscuits to pub food and afternoon tea," an official description reads. Here's the contestants for "Top Chef" Season 20: Samuel Albert, winner of "Top Chef France" Season 10 FOLLOW REALITY TV WORLD ON THE ALL-NEW GOOGLE NEWS! Reality TV World is now available on the all-new Google News app and website. Click here to visit our Google News page, and then click FOLLOW to add us as a news source! Luciana Berry, winner of "Top Chef Brazil" Season 2 Sara Bradley, finalist in "Top Chef" Season 16 Dawn Burrell, finalist in "Top Chef" Season 18 Ali Ghzawi, winner of "Top Chef Middle East & North Africa" Season 3 Tom Goetter, finalist in "Top Chef Germany" Season 1 Nicole Gomes, winner of "Top Chef Canada" Season 5 Victoire Gouloubi, finalist in "Top Chef Italy" Season 2 Charbel Hayek, winner of "Top Chef Middle East & North Africa" Season 5 Buddha Lo, winner of "Top Chef" Season 19 Dale MacKey, winner of "Top Chef Canada" Season 1 May Phattanant Thongthong, finalist in "Top Chef Thailand" Season 1 Begoia Rodrigo, winner of "Top Chef Spain" Season 1 Gabriel Rodriguez, winner of "Top Chef Mexico" Season 2 Amar Santana, finalist in "Top Chef" Season 13 Sylvia Stachyra, winner of "Top Chef Poland" Season 7 ENTERPRISE Longtime Enterprise attorney Dale Marsh will be inducted into the Alabama Lawyer Hall of Honor at the annual Alabama Law Alumni Society Banquet in Birmingham in March. Marsh is one of four being honored this year and the only one from the Wiregrass. Other 2023 inductees are the Honorable Sue Bell Cobb, Class of 1981; the Honorable Scott Coogler, Class of 1984; and Elizabeth Liz Huntley, Class of 1977. The Alabama Lawyer Hall of Honor was established by the Law School Foundation Board of Governors in 2020 to recognize the outstanding achievements of Alabama Law alumni and faculty. To be eligible for induction, a recipient must be a graduate of the University of Alabama School of Law, have a minimum 25 years of experience in the legal profession, be at least 50 years of age, and have an excellent reputation in the legal community. In addition, an honoree must have made significant contribution to the School of Law and their local community. Now managing partner of Marsh and Cotter LLP, the Enterprise native has been practicing law in the same peach-colored building at the intersection of East Lee and South Edwards streets since being hired straight out law school by the late Joe Cassady Sr. and the late Kenneth Fuller 49 years ago. He was made partner in 1976 and the firm became Cassady, Fuller and Marsh. Marsh is the son and grandson of Coffee County farmers. His grandfather, C.A. Marsh was among the second group of farmers to plant peanuts after the boll weevil destroyed area cotton crops in the early 1900s. That is part of why the story of the renowned Boll Weevil Monument in the middle of Main Street downtown is dear to his heart. The July 2017 issue of Alabama Lawyer includes an article written by Marsh about the significance of the boll weevil story in Enterprise, and he was most recently on the CBS Sunday Morning show titled An Alabama Town honors the boll weevil talking about impact a positive attitude can make. The boll weevil destroyed everything in its path and that didnt affect just the farmer, Marsh said. If the farmer had no crop, he had no money to pay back the bank or the merchants. The transition to peanut farming created prosperity out of devastation for the town. In 1919, Enterprise citizens erected a monument to celebrate their agricultural prosperity, overcoming earlier devastation. Decades later, the weevil was put on top of it. The lesson of the boll weevil is that when adversity comes your way, dont quit, Marsh said. The Boll Weevil Monument might initially seem silly if you do not know the story, but the story is not actually about the boll weevil but what it represents. The same boll weevil lessons apply to the practice of law, Marsh said. Lawyers must have a deep understanding of both the black letter law and human nature. We must use our training, our ethical duty to clients, and the courts in our commitment to justice to create legal solutions to the many problems that face modern society. Although the legal process and products lawyers provide have changed and will continue to change, the one constant in the law profession that remains is the need for advice and counsel which only lawyers can provide, he said. Lawyers must continue to be hard working, courageous, creative and demonstrate a continued will to win, succeed, and above all, persevere. The motto of the Alabama State bar is lawyers render service and I think thats true, Marsh said. Marshs journey to a legal career was not without challenges, he said, crediting his parents and grandparents for the work ethic he learned as a child. In harvest season, we picked cotton, from daybreak to sundown, he said. So, I grew up knowing how to work. There are lots of people smarter than me, but not a lot of people who are willing to work harder than me. I always said nobody is going to outwork me and that has made all the difference in my law practice and my willingness to help my city, state and nation. His service to his community includes having been a board member president of the Enterprise State Community College Foundation from 1992-2019. He has served as a deacon and Trustee at First Baptist Church of Enterprise. Marsh was named Enterprise Man of the Year in 1991, Enterprise State Junior College Outstanding Alumnus in 1990 and the Alabama College System Alumni Hall of Honor as Most Outstanding Alumnus in 1990. Marsh has served as the Coffee County Bar Association president and State Bar Association commissioner for the 12th Judicial Circuit. He served as State Bar Association chair of the Unauthorized Practice of Law Committee and is a longtime member of the Volunteer Lawyers Program, and has served many years as a director of Legal Services of Alabama. Marsh served as Alabama Council of School Board Attorneys president from 2005-2006. He also served as an alternate judge for the Alabama Court of Judiciary from 2015-2021. He served as Middle District of Alabama Historical Committee member and later as chairman, served on two separate Merit Selection Panels for U.S. Magistrate Judges, and twice was an invited lawyer delegate from the Middle District to attend 11th Circuit Judicial conferences. Marsh served as Farrah Law Society president and has been a governor and served as president of the UA Law Foundation for more than 35 years. He served on the UA Law School Addition/Renovation Committee. Marsh retired in 2001 at the rank of colonel after serving 31 years as a member of the Alabama Army National Guard and U.S. Army Reserve. He served as commander of the 31st Support Battalion in Enterprise and executive officer of the 31st Armor Brigade in Tuscaloosa. He served as a USMA admission liaison officer and recruited high school students from the Wiregrass area to attend USMA at West Point. He is a 2014 graduate of the Army War College National Security and Strategy Seminar at Carlisle Barracks, Pa. He is married to Joan Warren Marsh. They are the parents of two UA law graduates, Katherine M. Whitson, class of 2004, and John Warren Marsh, class of 2007. Videos Sorry, there are no recent results for popular videos. Since UGAs integration in 1961, Black students have fought to make spaces for themselves on campus and in the community. Today, one of the most prominent spaces on campus for celebrating Black identities is in a sorority. This year, the Eta Xi chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated is celebrating its 50th year of striving for excellence in service, sisterhood and scholarship at UGA. Republican members of Alabamas delegation to Congress criticized the Biden administrations response to the Chinese spy balloon observed over American airspace, suggesting the device be dismantled. Shoot it down, said U.S. Sen. Tommy Tuberville, R-Ala., on Twitter while sharing a news story about the spy balloon. Tuberville also shared a photo of the projected path of the balloon flying over several states in the middle of the country, including near Malmstrom Air Force base in Montana home to 150 nuclear missiles. Dereliction of duty by the Commander in Chief: allowing a Chinese spy balloon deep into our heartland and hover over nuclear sites, he said. NORAD said Thursday it was tracking the balloon and believed it does not present a military or physical threat to people on the ground at this time, adding that the sphere is currently traveling at an altitude well above commercial air traffic. U.S. Rep. Gary Palmer, R-Hoover, also suggested the balloon be removed from our airspace immediately, although he did not say what method should be used to get the apparatus out of American skies. Why is the spy balloon from the Chinese Communist Party being allowed to continue moving across our country? This is a national security failure by President Biden. The balloon needs to be removed from our airspace immediately, he said. China acknowledged the balloon was theirs on Friday and claimed it is a civilian airship used for research, mainly meteorological, purposes. Chinas foreign ministry alleged winds caused the balloons to veer off course and into American airspace. U.S. Rep. Robert Aderholt, R-Haleyville, was skeptical of the Chinas assertion. In a communist society nothing is civilian. Its all about the communist party and feeding its goals, which at the top of the list is to overtake the US in power and influence, he said Friday. On Thursday, Aderholt called the incident very concerning and a blatant example of the Chinese Communist Partys attempts at spying on and stealing American technology and military secrets. A U.S. intelligence official told CNN that while the projected path of the balloon includes some sensitive sites, the Pentagon believes the balloon does not have superior intelligence-gathering capabilities compared to other traditional spying methods. The Pentagon is taking steps nevertheless to protect against foreign intelligence collection of sensitive information. We are also tracking what abilities it could have in gaining insights, and continue to monitor the balloon as it was over the continental United States, the official said. Photographer / Multimedia Editor Has been working as a photojournalist since 2007, before moving into newspapers, he worked with an NGO called Project HOPE. He then went to work for the Press and Sun-Bulletin in New York, and then in New England working for the Brattleboro Reformer. Almost 500 kilograms of smuggled ivory are seized at a port in Hai Phong City, February 3, 2022. Photo by VnExpress/Huy Minh Vietnam's Coast Guard and Customs on Friday seized 500 kilograms of ivory in the northern city of Hai Phong after it was smuggled into the country by a local firm. The ivory, which was mixed in together with a batch of cow horn, was imported from Nigeria to Lach Huyen Port in Hai Phong. Nguyen Huu Dung, a customs official in Hai Phong, said when screening the cow horn, customs officers had detected abnormal signs. As a result, they used specialized tools to check the shipment more carefully and found the hidden ivory. Major General Vu Trung Kien, deputy commander of Vietnams Coast Guard, said signs of a ring trading and smuggling ivory from Nigeria to Vietnam had emerged since mid-October last year and the Coast Guard tightened inspections since then. The Coast Guard and police are investigating the ring further. Vietnam outlawed the ivory trade in 1992, but the country remains a top market for the product, which is prized for decorative and medicinal purposes, according to conservation groups. Vietnam is among the top 10 countries and territories in terms of wildlife trafficking, according to a December 2017 study by wildlife trade monitoring group TRAFFIC and Australias University of Adelaide. Mainland China, Malaysia, Hong Kong, Thailand, Laos, and Indonesia were also on the list. The app was banned over 'illegal content' and for failing a government security assessment, developers are told Apple's China App Store has removed a Twitter-like social media app linked to Jack Dorsey's Nostr social media platform, which relies on a decentralized network of users exchanging encrypted information to evade control or censorship by governments or private companies. Damus was removed from the Apple China App Store a day after being launched there, the developers said via their Twitter account. "We are writing to notify you that your application, per demand from the Cyberspace Administration of China, will be removed from the China App Store because it includes content that is illegal in China, which is not in compliance with the App Store review guidelines," the App Store said in screenshot of the notification letter attached to Damus' tweet. According to the Cyberspace Administration, the app had failed a security assessment for apps having "public opinion" or "social mobilization" capabilities, the letter said. Apple's removal of apps from its Chinese app store that could empower users to get around the country's strict censorship regime has sparked criticism from users and service providers before. Must comply In October 2019, the company took down a hugely popular police-tracking app from its Hong Kong store after it was used by participants in the 2019 protest movement to evade arrest or police violence. "Apps must comply with all legal requirements ... it is your responsibility to understand and make sure your app conforms with all local laws ... apps that solicit, promote, or encourage criminal or clearly reckless behavior will be rejected," it said in the letter to Damus. Screenshot of Damus announcement on the Chinese ban on Twitter The app was likely banned because of its lack of content moderation, and had already been rejected multiple times because Apple requires apps to have a mechanism for reporting and blocking objectionable users and content, the Bitcoin site Watcher.Guru said in an article on Friday. Any online platform that is accessible to users inside the Great Firewall of Chinese internet censorship must first acquire an internet content provider license, which are generally refused to apps capable of "disrupting public order" or evading censorship, and to platforms that refuse to gather real-name information and IP addresses from users or hand over user data to the authorities when requested. Nostr -- short for Notes and Other Stuff Transmitted by Relays -- also had built-in support for the Bitcoin Lightning Network, Watcher.Guru said. "The inclusion of support for the Bitcoin Lightning Network is another reason why authorities dont look kindly on the project, as crypto is banned within the country," it said. Snowden a fan Former National Security Agency contractor Edward Snowden, now exiled in Russia after leaking huge quantities of information on the agency's mass-surveillance of ordinary citizens to the media, is a prominent fan of Nostr and related apps. "The problem is that most major states are pressuring corporations to limit speech," Snowden wrote after opening an account on the platform, posting a screenshot of the post to his Twitter account on Jan. 23. "The solution is to remove the ability to limit speech from corporate hands," he wrote, adding to his Twitter followers: "Find me there." A social media user in China who gave only the nickname Lisa said Damus had the ability to evade Chinese internet censorship, and that she knew of many people who had already downloaded it. "The new Twitter-like app, Damus, was popular in China for a day, but was taken down today," she said. "I saw there were discussions about this in my WeChat groups for the past couple of days." "It was taken down from the store after just one day," she said. Translated by Luisetta Mudie. Edited by Malcolm Foster. Zhou Fengsuo, a former student leader during the 1989 Tiananmen Square protests, recently took over as executive director of the New York-based group Human Rights in China. He says he will be looking to forge a movement for change in China alongside overseas Chinese and young people, who he believes will carry on the momentum begun by the "white paper" protests in November. He spoke to RFA Mandarin about his new role: RFA: Could you give us some background on Human Rights in China? Zhou Fengsuo: Human Rights in China is one of the longest-running overseas human rights organizations. I am ready and willing to accept the challenge of carrying forward this torch that was lit in 1989 ... into the future, whether it be [campaigning for] the Tiananmen Mothers who are seeking justice for the victims of the June 4, 1989, massacre, or funding or campaigning for Chinese prisoners of conscience, which the younger generation will take over. Right now, the most important tasks are international campaigns, for example those targeting the United Nations or other international organizations, and this will be one of the key points of focus for Human Rights in China. This group has a very good reputation in the English-speaking world, yet we can do more in this regard to ensure the ... international community gains a better understanding of China's human rights situation, so more people can actively support freedom, democracy, human rights and the rule of law for China. RFA: What role have overseas communities played in the Chinese democracy movement in recent years? Zhou Fengsuo: With the white paper movement, we once more saw the importance of overseas students. There were large-scale protests overseas after Peng Lifa protested at the Sitong [traffic] flyover [in Beijing on Oct. 13, 2022], with people shouting similar slogans like "Xi Jinping, step down!"; these also found their way back to China. Many of those who were detained in China during the protests had returned from studying overseas. Han Yutao, a Chinese student at Bellevue College in Washington state, expressed support for the Bridge Man protester in Oct. 2022. Credit: Han Yutao While it seemed that the [Communist Party's supporters] Little Pinks had the upper hand before the pandemic, there are also many seeds of hope for overseas students, and they are the forces that will change China in the future. It is the aim of Human Rights in China to serve [overseas Chinese], so they can truly enjoy freedom and democracy [here in the United States], and so that they can become the driving force behind China's future democratization. RFA: The FBI has arrested a large number of overseas Chinese for spying for the Chinese government recently. How do you plan to prevent the harassment of overseas students by agents of the Chinese state in the United States? Zhou Fengsuo: The most important thing is to provide them with an environment in which they know that they have protection and rights here; that those who love freedom and democracy needn't live in fear in the United States. This will be a key focus of our work in future, to set up a service center through which any overseas Chinese, overseas students can contact us if they have any concerns. We will also be taking the initiative in future to call on schools to take steps to safeguard students at risk, and to protect free-thinking people. RFA: Some say that overseas rights organizations are out of touch with the reality of living in China. How do you plan to help people there? Zhou Fengsuo: Experience has taught us that overseas campaigning is very important, whether it's just building consensus, boosting social influence, or improving the lives of prisoners of conscience. Human Rights in China in recent years has had insufficient connections in China, and that is something I will be actively developing. I will do my best to serve those who are on the front line in China, to come up with ideas, and to let them choose the kinds of risks they take, choose their own path. We can provide help to them in various ways. I believe that, now matter how dark the current times may seem, there will always be people who have enough courage and faith in the Chinese democratic movement to keep going and to find new ways [to resist]. Even in dark times, we must remain full of hope. Translated by Luisetta Mudie. Edited by Malcolm Foster. Clampdown is sparked by public skepticism over official claims of suicide in the death of teenager China's People's Daily newspaper called for an end to public speculation over the death of teenager Hu Xinyu as the country's internet regulator clamped down on online rumors. The move comes amid a social media storm about the 15-year-old Hu amid an apparent spike in missing teens in recent months. His body was found hanging from a tree earlier this week close to his boarding school after going missing for more than three months. Police on Thursday said an investigation had ruled out homicide in his death and that an analysis of a digital voice recorder found with the body had yielded recordings made by Hu contemplating whether or not to jump from the fifth floor of his dormitory. But the findings sparked widespread public skepticism, with social media brimming with armchair theories and speculation about how Hu died. In response to the uproar, the ruling Chinese Communist Party's official newspaper said in an editorial on Thursday that "the relevant departments gave candid explanations and responded to public concerns" about the slow police response to Hu's disappearance, and called for the investigation to proceed "along professional and legal lines." "We absolutely must stay away from emotional thinking, and resolutely crack down on those who spread rumors ... to win public trust," the paper said. Editorial mouthpiece People's Daily editorials are approved at the highest levels of government in Beijing, and the article suggests a broader crackdown on social media commenting on Hu's death may be on the way. Administrators for the social media platform Sina Weibo said they are already in the process of identifying "illegal content" relating to the case, and "resolutely dealing with violations like rumor-mongering and fake news to ... generate traffic." "[Weibo has] cleaned up more than 3,500 pieces of illegal content that spread rumors about this," the platform said on its official Weibo account, adding that it had "punished" dozens of accounts with bans and deletions. "We are deeply saddened and sorry about what happened to Hu Xinyu," the statement said. "This site will continue to investigate and clean up relevant illegal content, and at the same time we appeal to the majority of users to respect the deceased and the facts, and not to believe rumors or spread rumors." The video screen with a time stamp shows that at 17:42:56, Hu Xinyu once appeared at a similar corner. (Screen shot of Web video) Commentators have told RFA that a lack of official transparency in sensitive political cases and widespread censorship creates an information vacuum in mainland China into which all manner of conspiracy theories take hold. However, they also point to a number of unsolved missing persons cases and the prevalence of human trafficking and illegal organ-harvesting in China. Cyber watchdog Meanwhile, China's powerful Cyberspace Administration said it had flagged up more than 250,000 rumors on social media platforms including Weibo, Douyin, Baidu, Tencent and Bilibili since August 2022. "Major platforms actively shoulder the main responsibility, conducting in-depth analysis of the data on their platforms based on authoritative releases of information," the agency said in a Jan. 25 statement. "The work of tagging online rumors is an important measure to rectify the chaos of online rumors and to clean up cyberspace," it said. "In 2023, we will ... organize more major platforms to step up efforts to eliminate and expose online rumors." Police have also warned that anyone gossiping about the case or "maliciously spreading false information" could face a police investigation and criminal charges. "Some police departments have already cracked down on a small number of people who were intentionally fabricating reports and spreading rumors, Jiangxi police department steering group chief Hu Mansong told a news conference on Feb. 2. Censorship machinery? Former Sina Weibo censor Liu Lipeng said it looks as if widespread censorship of the Hu Xinyu case is just getting underway. "The official investigation results have been released, which is a bit like setting the tone," Liu told Radio Free Asia. "There will be much stronger efforts to delete going forward. There wasn't really very much censorship before that point." Censors working for internet companies are typically told to work from official narratives to judge whether content breaks rules on rumor-mongering, so the Feb. 2 news conference which announced Hu's death was suicide will give them something to work from. "Naturally, censorship orders have to be linked to unified [government] narratives and tone-setting, so anything that is different from what the government is saying will be deleted," he said. Liu said the rumor-mongering is itself caused by tight controls on information and general lack of transparency in China. "Nobody trusts the government any more, especially when it comes to minors and vulnerable members of society," he said. "They just pretend to support them, while all of its support has collapsed in private." Crisis of public trust The Hu Xinyu case has once more highlighted a "crisis of public trust" in China, Liu said on his Twitter account. "In the absence of credible news, [the public] can only resort to conspiracy theories. He said a similar phenomenon was seen in the wake of the discovery of a woman chained by the neck in an outhouse in Jiangxi in early 2022, and after the beating of several women at a barbecue restaurant in the northern city of Tangshan. Zhang Jing, founder of the rights group Women's Rights in China, said the government appears to have lost all sense of its image in the public eye. "The Chinese government at least used to have some sense of saving face, of presenting a more acceptable side, or some fear of losing public credibility," Zhang said. "But it doesn't need those things now, because it knows it will end in a hard crackdown, and so it no longer cares about losing public trust," she said. Translated by Luisetta Mudie. Edited by Malcolm Foster. Move allows the military to issue harsh sentences and will lead to intensifying conflict, analysts say. In this Feb. 3, 2022 photo provided by Chin Twin Chit Thu, an aerial view shows burnt houses by Myanmar juntas military in Mingin township, Sagaing Division. Myanmars military junta has declared martial law in 37 townships across the country and authorized military tribunals to hand down life sentences and the death penalty for a wide range of offenses, a move that political and military analysts say will lead to more bloodshed, displacement and terror. Thursdays move came a day after military leaders extended their emergency rule over the country for six more months. It marked the second anniversary of the Feb. 1, 2021, coup that ousted the democratically elected government. All of the affected townships, scattered across eight states and regions, are in areas where anti-junta forces have a strong presence, from Sagaing in the north to Kayin in the south. In fact, all the towns where martial law was declared are actually under control of forces opposed to the military government, said Defense Minister Yi Mon of the shadow National Unity Government, made up of members of the previous ruling party and other junta opponents. The military knows the actual situation that they dont control those areas but they declared martial law anyway just to save face, he told RFAs Burmese Service. Still, martial law gives military commanders and military courts full judicial and administrative powers in those areas, allowing them to hand out the maximum penalty under the law for 23 specific crimes, including discrediting the state, illegal association, and unlawful possession of a weapon. Giving military courts such power has no precedent in Myanmar, said a lawyer who requested anonymity for security reasons. As lawyers, we have never seen such an order issued, the lawyer said. Direction from the administration that the highest punishments must be imposed for these cases is not in accordance with the legal system that has been operating in Myanmar for generations nor international law. Like an ulcer that never heals Thein Tun Oo, executive director of Theyninga Institute for Strategic Studies, which is made up of former military officers, said that martial law had to be issued in order to crush rebel forces that have grown because the military had gone soft on them a tacit acknowledgement that the military has faced serious setbacks. The military dealt with the armed resistance as softly as possible and avoided forceful attacks in some areas, he said. The military was giving them some time to think of peaceful ways in hope that they would join in on elections. But quite contrary to the militarys expectation, the resistance forces did not back down, he said. Armed resistance is like an ulcer that never heals as time passes. Now the martial law has been declared to crush them for the peace and security in those regions. In this March 29, 2021 citizen journalist photo, mourners flash three-finger salute during the funerals of three protesters, who were shot and killed by Myanmar juntas military in Monywa, Sagaing region. Credit: Citizen Journalist photo via AFP Indeed, the 37 townships under martial law will likely be targeted for increased military hostility, said political analyst Than Soe Naing. Two years after the military coup, many people in several parts of Myanmar are going to fall into the hellhole of military aggression, he said. There will be no law or judicial court there. The military will attack, kill and commit genocide against our people in many ways. The move will essentially allow the junta to unlawfully kill armed resistance fighters in the region, said a military officer from the Khin-U Support Organization, one of the resistance groups in the northern Sagaing region, who like many in this article insisted on anonymity for security reasons. They declared martial law only to unjustly kill our revolutionary forces. What is feared is that they might kill more innocent civilians for no particular reason, the officer said. Our regional defense forces will just fight them head-on and then move to safety as usual. There is nothing to worry about. Elections not possible in these areas The declaration also means that the junta is no longer capable of holding elections in those areas, Than Soe Naing said. Junta chief Sr. Gen. Min Aung Hlaing has pledged to hold multi-party elections, but opponents have dismissed those efforts as a sham because they believe any election will be rigged to exclude parties ousted by the coup and keep the junta in power. In this March 29, 2021 citizen journalist photo, People mourn during the funerals of three protesters, who were shot and killed by Myanmar juntas military in Monywa, Sagaing region. Credit: Citizen Journalist photo via AFP Publicly, the junta has tried to minimize the resistance. Sr. Gen. Min Aung Hlaing said in a Jan. 23 junta meeting that 198 of the 330 townships across the country were 100 percent peaceful, 67 had serious security issues, and 65 townships were in need of effective security measures. And yet the junta has expanded martial law from six townships around Yangon to 37. Zaw Yan, a farmers rights activist, said the declaration will lead to major bloodshed. It was made so that the military could kill everyone in their way to rule those regions by hook or by crook. But it also shows that the junta is becoming desperate because the whole country is resisting it, he said. The move will certainly boost the number of displaced people in the country, said security analyst Kyaw Saw Han. Already, fighting since the coup has uprooted at least 1.2 million people within the country, and many have also fled across borders into India or Thailand. In this March 30, 2021 photo, a hospital staffer prepares to clean a stretcher stained with blood from a protester killed during a crackdown by Myanmar military juntas soldiers at a demonstration against the military coup, at a hospital in Yangon. Credit: AFP Photo More arrests, killings and human rights violations are ahead, Kyaw Win, executive director of the London-based Burmese Human Rights Network said. According to martial law, they are going to act as judges, they are going to rule the cases in their favor openly in military courts, he said. They don't have the strength to fight all the resistance forces at the same time. Therefore, martial law was issued to help their forces cut the strength of the resistance. Translated by Myo Min Aung. Edited by Eugene Whong and Malcolm Foster. Washington to use Philippine sites to stage military response to a potential Chinese invasion of Taiwan South Korean and U.S. Marines make a beach landing during a joint U.S.-Philippine military exercise in Zambales province, in the northern Philippines, Oct. 7, 2022. Joined by South Korean and Japanese forces, Filipino and American Marines kicked off large-scale military drills amid tensions in the South China Sea and the Taiwan Strait. Giving the United States greater access to Philippine military bases would allow the superpower to respond more swiftly to flashpoints in the region, as potential conflicts brew in the Taiwan Strait and South China Sea, analysts say. The U.S. and Philippine defense secretaries announced this week that the longtime allies had struck a deal for granting American forces access to four more military bases in the Philippines, under the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA). The U.S. will now be able to rotate its forces in and out of and pre-deploy equipment and materiel at a total of nine bases in the Southeast Asian country strategically located in the South China Sea and close to Taiwan. But at their joint press conference in Manila on Thursday, neither U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin nor Philippine counterpart Carlito Galvez Jr. said openly whether the deal emerged from fears over a potential Chinese attack on Taiwan. Instead, both sides played it down by saying that the expanded access to Philippine bases would enable them to respond more quickly to humanitarian emergencies and disasters in the region. Lets call a spade a spade, political analyst Rommel Banlaoi, chairman of the Philippine Institute for Peace, Violence and Terrorism Research (PIPVTR) and a former government adviser on security, told BenarNews, an online news agency affiliated with Radio Free Asia. The U.S. should admit that EDCA aims to counter Chinas growing military advantage to control Taiwan, the South China Sea and the Korean Peninsula and eventually the whole Asian region. Both countries, he said, would do well to be transparent about their true intentions wanting more American facilities in the Southeast Asian archipelago, which is near these flashpoints for conflict. If EDCA sites are for HADR [Humanitarian and Disaster Response], maritime domain awareness and counterterrorism, I think the Philippines has offered more than enough locations, Banlaoi said. I think the U.S. is preparing for greater military contingencies requiring more access to Philippine territories strategically situated at the heart of the Indo-Pacific, he added. The Philippines, a longtime close ally and former American colony, was the hub of the U.S. military presence in Southeast Asia during the Cold War. Until the early 1990s, when a nationalist-leaning Senate voted to shut them down, the country hosted two of the largest overseas American military bases Subic Naval Base and Clark Air Base. Filipino Defense Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. greets U.S. counterpart Lloyd Austin (left) as the American defense chief arrives for talks in Manila, Feb. 2, 2023. [Handout photo/Philippine Department of National Defense] More recently, the bilateral relationship became strained during the administration of President Rodrigo Duterte (2016-2022), who steered the Philippines closer towards Washingtons rival powers, China and Russia. He had threatened to scrap the Visiting Forces Agreement. This defense pact with the U.S. provides legal cover for the EDCA, a 2014 agreement that allows American forces to rotate in and out of the Philippines and access a limited number of bases here. Duterte later reversed his position before leaving office in 2022, as he called on China to respect international law in the South China Sea. His successor, Ferdinand Marcos Jr., is widely seen here as more U.S.-friendly. Marcos has expressed a clearer position on the disputed waterway, although he has stated that his government would also work with China for economic considerations. Its clear that both nations considered the Philippines defense of its territory while they were negotiating additional EDCA sites last year, according to Manila-based political analyst Don McLain Gill, regional director for the Philippine-Middle East Studies Association, a think-tank. There were discussions then that among the sites that are critical is Subic, which faces the controversial and disputed South China Sea, he told BenarNews, referring to the site of the former U.S. naval base. Subic has been transformed into a freeport but is still a property of the Philippine government. The alliance, Gill argued, has evolved based on emerging threats and strategic developments in the region. However, by increasing the U.S. presence in the region via its ties with the Philippines, China is likely to counter this development by solidifying its position in the region, particularly its locus of power in the Western Pacific, Gill said. In his view, China will try to deepen its engagement further with its immediate neighbors as it did during the 1950s and 1960s to limit U.S. influence and its ability to harness a collective capacity to balance China through the alliance network. Chinese President Xi Jinping (left) walks with Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. after reviewing an honor guard during a welcome ceremony at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, Jan. 4, 2023. [Shen Hong/Xinhua via AP] While the new Philippine president has signaled that his administration wants to work with Beijing on economic development, strengthening Philippine deterrence, modernizing its military, and diversifying strategic partners will be an undeniable component of the Marcos governments policies, Gill said. Last month, Marcos undertook his first presidential visit to China, where he and Chinese President Xi Jinping agreed to set up a hotline between their nations foreign offices to communicate over tensions in contested waters of the South China Sea. On Thursday, Chinas Ministry of Foreign Affairs criticized the announcement in Manila about the expanded access to the Philippines for U.S. forces. This would escalate tensions and endanger peace and stability in the region. Regional countries need to remain vigilant and avoid being coerced or used by the U.S., ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning said. Reactions at home The Philippines has yet to reveal the names of the four new sites where American forces will be given access. [W]ere pleased to announce today that President Marcos has approved four new EDCA locations, and that brings the total number of EDCA sites to nine, Austin said at the news conference with Galvez, according to a transcript from the Pentagon. While responding to a reporters question later on, Austin said EDCA is not about permanent basing here in the Philippines. Its about providing access that allows us to increase our training opportunities with our partners, our allies here, the U.S. defense chief said. Its about having the ability to respond in a more effective fashion as were faced as were collectively faced with humanitarian assistance issues or natural or disaster response issues. Although news of the expanded defense ties with the U.S. has generally been well received here, others have expressed caution. Nationalist activists point to past abuses committed by American troops in the Philippines. These include the case of Lance Cpl. Joseph Scott Pemberton, a Marine who was convicted of killing a transgender Filipino woman but was pardoned by President Duterte. As the number of EDCA bases mutates into nine, the administration should brief Congress and tell the public on where these additional four will be, House of Representatives Deputy Speaker Ralph Recto said in a statement Friday. National security is not harmed by that candor. But any secrecy will deal transparency, an avowed hallmark of this administration, a serious blow, said Recto, a former senator. On Saturday, Galvez issued a statement in which he defended the decision to expand the EDCA with the U.S., saying it is the sovereign right of every country to build its defense capability. [I]n pursuit of that right the DND [Department of National Defense] has been and will always remain consistent in its position that all engagements with the U.S. as well as other foreign partners must be conducted in accordance with the Philippine Constitution and other national laws, the Philippine defense secretary said. The newly expanded deal is not about permanent basing in the Philippines, which is forbidden by the Philippine Constitution, and it will allow our allies access to training opportunities with Philippine personnel on a rotational basis, Galvez stressed. Under the deal, facilities and infrastructure will also be constructed to help enhance the Philippine militarys capabilities and serve as storage or housing for assets and materiel, he added. Prepositioned equipment that will be stored in the Agreed Locations will strengthen our capabilities to immediately deliver humanitarian assistance to disaster-affected areas as well promote more rapid reaction times during disasters, emergencies, or contingencies, he said. BenarNews is an online news outlet affiliated with Radio Free Asia. During the Trump administration, Keith Krach was under-secretary of state for economic growth, energy, and the environment. He oversaw the development and implementation of the Clean Network Alliance of Democracies, a U.S.-led global effort to address long-term threats to data privacy, security, human rights and collaboration from authoritarian actors. In July 2020, he was also the first American diplomat to call Chinas mistreatment of the Uyghurs in Xinjiang a genocide. Now 65, Krach chairs the Krach Institute for Tech Diplomacy at Purdue, an independent, bipartisan think tank at the intersection of technology and U.S. foreign policy, based in Washington, D.C. He recently spoke with Alim Seytoff of Radio Free Asias Uyghur service. The interview has been edited for length and clarity. RFA: On Jan. 27, International Holocaust Remembrance Day, you re-shared an opinion piece you had written about the genocide of the Uyghurs. What is the significance of also remembering the ongoing Uyghur genocide on this day? Krach: Communist China is committing punishable genocide as defined by the U.N. in Xinjiang and elsewhere with Uyghurs and other minority populations. Its a time to really remember that, but more than just remember and more than just talk about it, its time to do something about it. Those were many of the initiatives when I was an under-secretary of state, and now as chairman of the Krach Institute for Tech Diplomacy, were continuing that. RFA: The international community coined the phrase never again because no one wanted to experience another genocide again after the Holocaust. But it happened again and again, in Rwanda, in Darfur, and in Myanmar with the Rohingya, and were still seeing it happen with the Uyghurs. Does never again really mean anything in international relations, or is it just a catch-phrase? Krach: Its got to be more than a phrase, and its really up to all of society to enforce that. The thing that I learned when I was running U.S. economic diplomacy was that this precious democracy and the freedoms we have are an unnatural act because the natural order of things is the bad king, the dictator and the emperor. When you have that kind of authoritarian rule, it really lends itself to genocide, so youve got to fight every day to have [democracy]. Thats why I have so much respect for the U.S. government and for the people. Regardless of a lot of the drama thats going on in domestic politics, these guys are professional, and weve got to stay on that. But it takes an all of society's approach. That was the whole emphasis in terms of our campaign against the Uyghur genocide. I went on national TV [in 2020] and was first government official to actually label those human rights atrocities in Xinjiang as genocide. And then, I wrote a letter to all U.S. CEOs, university governing boards and civil society leaders, alerting them to the fact. Ive been a public company CEO many times, and Ive been chairman of Purdue Universitys board of trustees, but I didn't know about this. So the first thing is to educate, but the second thing is to do something about it. Thats when I asked them to check their supply chains to make sure they were free from forced labor, and also asked them to divest from any Chinese companies that facilitate the human rights abuses in Xinjiang. RFA: When you were under-secretary of state, you issued a business advisory to many American corporations doing business with China about the dangers and risks of possibly being complicit with Uyghur forced labor and genocide. Do you think that has been very effective? Krach: It woke up a lot of boards of directors. The way I put it, it was their moral responsibility and their fiduciary duty to make sure that they did not enable human rights abuses. In April, I penned an article in Fortune magazine that said to make your China contingency plan at the next board meeting. What I see now from prominent U.S. board members and those in Europe and Japan, is that they are developing China contingency plans because they see the genocide that Xi [Jinping] is committing, and they see that he is cracking down on the private sector. They see that hes amped up aggression with Taiwan and the potential for an invasion, and theyre creating contingency plans. A lot of these companies have experienced pulling out of Russia and losing hundreds of billions of dollars with a bloody, unprovoked invasion, so they dont want to have it happen again. So, it's being discussed, and a number of corporations are standing up, but weve got a long way to go. RFA: At the World Economic Forum in January, Chinese Vice-Premier Liu He stated that the West should abandon its Cold War mentality and that China is now open for business. He also held a separate meeting with U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen and invited her to visit the country. There is a lot of excitement on Wall Street with many corporations looking to invest in China now that the COVID lockdowns are over. How should we read this in light of the ongoing genocide and the tragic stories of people who lost their lives because of the strict zero-COVID policy? Krach: One of the big things were doing is were shining the light of transparency on China, which also means weve got to shine the light of transparency on ourselves. You brought up the World Economic Forum that Ive been going to for 20 years. This is the premier gathering of governments and corporations along the lines of social responsibility. Before I wrote last years op-ed, I went through that website backwards and forwards. Its a complicated, all-inclusive website, and I couldn't find anywhere any mention of Uyghurs or anything on the genocide in Xinjiang. What that shows is that theyre conflicted. Chinas strategy is to seduce with money and reinforce with intimidation and retaliation. Here you have that prominent forum and all about talking about human rights, and they dont even mention it. Now, thats kind of hypocritical. You brought up Wall Street. We just finished a case study on ESG [environmental, social and governance standards] and solar and how 90% of the solar business is being manufactured in Xinjiang with the two biggest unregulated coal-powered plants in the world, and with Uyghur slave labor. One of the things we talk about in that case study is a company like BlackRock, which has been financing these Chinese companies that perpetuate the surveillance state and perpetuate genocide. So, we're doing our best to shine the light on these companies, and people are beginning to step up. The best way to effect it is to ring the cash register over there in Xinjiang in an all-society movement. RFA: Many Uyghurs, including those in exile, see no end in sight for the genocide. They are not in touch with their loved ones. Many of them have been detained, disappeared or have died in Chinese internment camps. What should the U.S. government or Western nations should do to end the genocide? Krach: When we built the Clean Network Alliance of Democracies to defeat China's master plan to control 5G, it was a rally that unified like-minded nations because that has a very powerful voice. You see countries like the Czech Republic and France match our position in terms of declaring it punishable genocide. Thats the first step. The other key thing is youve got to leverage the innovation and the resources of the private sector. Theres a tremendous amount of pressure, and well continue to put it on these corporations using forced labor in their supply chains. There are legal and reputational implications for those companies, so the business side is key. Universities are really key because they have big endowment funds, and we can put pressure on them because theyre all about academic freedom and human rights. So, weve got to rally those folks as well. Congress has begun to step up in terms of the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act. The key thing of what I learned from the government is once these bills get signed off, it all comes around to the implementation. And thats where every citizens got to keep the pressure on in terms of the implementation of these laws. Edited by Roseanne Gerin and Malcolm Foster. This photo taken on July 9, 2017 shows dissident Nguyen Lan Thang watching members of the No-U FC squad play in their weekly football match at a local pitch in Hanoi. - The team of political dissidents has turned to football to circumvent government efforts to block their meetings. Hanoi police said that they completed an investigation into the case of prominent blogger Nguyen Lan Thang, who was arrested in July, and recommended he be charged with spreading anti-state information. Le Van Luan, one of Thangs two defense lawyers, told RFA on Friday that they received a notice saying that the investigation was completed by Jan. 17. The lawyer added that both defense counsels have registered to represent Thang. Born in 1975, Nguyen is a human rights activist who blogged for RFAs Vietnamese Service. His wife, Le Bich Vuong, said that neither she nor his two lawyers have been able to speak with him or see him since his arrest on July 5. Our family hasnt had any information about him and hasnt been allowed to see him. Neither have his lawyers, she said. Police announced that they recommended Thang be charged with creating, storing, disseminating or propagandizing information, materials, items, and publications against the Socialist Republic of Vietnam under Article 117 of Vietnams Penal Code. Vuong said her family was allowed each week to send him food and personal items purchased directly from the prison. She said she was very worried about his health as he has asthma. The detention center did not allow her to send him medicine. Investigators also told her family that Thang had complained of bone pain and blurred vision. Academic family Nguyen Lan Thang is from a well-known academic family in Vietnam, and his grandfather wrote a popular Vietnamese dictionary. Thang is both a writer and an activist, beginning in 2011 with protests against Chinas maritime incursions in the South China Sea. Dissident blogger, Nguyen Lan Thang He was arrested in 2013, and in 2014 authorities forbade him from traveling to the United States to attend a World Press Freedom Day ceremony held by UNESCO. He has contributed articles as an independent commentator to RFAs Vietnamese Service since 2013 on topics such as freedom, democracy and human rights. He also actively posted on his personal Facebook page. Blocked from lawyers His wife, Vuong, said she was told by police that Thang could only be allowed visitors, including his lawyers, once the police investigation was complete because he is accused of a national security violation. Its extremely unreasonable, Vuong told RFA. Article 117 is very vague I dont think he has done any harm to the countrys interests. Phil Robertson, deputy director of Human Rights Watchs Asia Division, said Thang faces a long prison term for simply expressing viewpoints on Facebook that the ruling Communist party doesn't like. "Vietnam's campaign to censor critical views and put activists behind bars is not slowing down one iota despite the political unrest and official resignations at the top of the government, Robertson said. Arresting people on ludicrous charges like conducting anti-state propaganda is not a sign of strength but rather an indication of weakness, he said, and only goes to show just how politically paranoid Vietnam's ruling dictatorship really is about members of the public pointing out the regime's faults. Translated by Anna Vu. Edited by Nawar Nemeh and Malcolm Foster. Former President Nguyen Xuan Phuc speaks at a ceremony to officially hand over his work, on February 4, 2023. Photo by Hoang Phong The Presidential Office organized the transfer of work from former president Nguyen Xuan Phuc to interim post holder Vo Thi Anh Xuan Saturday afternoon. At the ceremony, Phuc, 69, said that as the prime minister during the 2016-2021 term, he was responsible for letting several officials, including two deputy prime ministers and three ministers, commit violations that caused severe consequences. "Being aware of my responsibility to the Party and the people, I submitted a request to resign from all positions and to retire. During the extraordinary meetings of the Central Party Committee and the National Assembly, I had raised this issue unequivocally and clearly," he said. On January 17, the Central Party Committee agreed to let Phuc stop serving as a member of the Politburo and the committee, Vietnam's president and chairman of the Council for National Defense and Security of the 2021-2026 term, upon his request. A day later, the National Assembly dismissed Phuc from his positions per his request, and appointed the then Vice President Vo Thi Anh Xuan as the interim president. Phuc was a member of the Central Party Committee, the Politburo and the National Assembly for multiple terms. From 1997 to 2006, he was the chairman of the Quang Nam Province People's Committee. He was appointed head of the Government Office in 2006 and deputy prime minister in 2011, before becoming the prime minister five years later. He was voted president in April 2021. When the Taliban returned to power in 2021 in a lightning military insurrection that toppled Afghanistans internationally recognized government, the country immediately fell into diplomatic isolation. Two of Kabuls neighbors to the north, Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan, chose a different route, putting the hard-line groups fractious history with the former Soviet Central Asian republics aside and prioritizing engagement over criticism and pressure. But a giant canal project in Afghanistan now taking shape that the Taliban is pursuing at a rapid pace is giving the two water-stressed countries doubts about whether strategic patience with the Islamic fundamentalist group will yield rewards. If you look at other projects that have involved Afghanistan and Central Asia somehow, there has often been a win-win element, Jennifer Brick Murtazashvili, founding director of the Center for Governance and Markets at the University of Pittsburgh, told RFE/RL. But the Qosh Tepa Irrigation Canal, which will divert large volumes of water from the dwindling transboundary Amu Darya River, is a very different case. This is very much zero sum, because water is a finite good and there dont seem to be any benefits for Afghanistans neighbors here, said Murtazashvili, adding that she expects the Central Asian countries to pursue a lot of quiet diplomacy on the project that will add to the pressures faced by outsized agricultural sectors already battling climate change and historical mismanagement. But the Taliban will be probing to see how far it can go, Murtazashvili said, something she suggested its downstream neighbors will have to get used to. If the first Taliban [regime that ruled most of Afghanistan from 1996 to 2001] was weighed down by insurgency and in some ways never really behaved like a state, Taliban 2.0 seems to really like the idea of projecting state power, Murtazashvili said. Old Project With New Momentum The stated dimensions of the irrigation canal that workers started digging last spring are enough to understand why the downstream countries have concerns. With a length of 285 kilometers and a width of some 100 meters, experts believe it could draw a significant portion of the Amu Daryas flow while irrigating 550,000 hectares of land. An Afghan civil servant with knowledge of the project told RFE/RLs Uzbek Service that work on the second of three stages of the project that began in the spring of 2022 is expected to begin in the coming months, with more than 100 kilometers already dug and visible from space. The plan to irrigate land in northern Afghanistan is not new. Farid Azim, an official at the National Development Company overseeing its construction, pointed out last year that Afghanistans first president, Mohammad Daud Khan, had a similar vision in the 1970s. The project was most recently pursued by the U.S.-backed administration of President Ashraf Ghani -- which the Taliban overthrew less than two years ago. A press release issued by the United States Agency for International Development from 2018 marking the launch of a Washington-funded feasibility study for Qosh Tepa described a 200 kilometer-long canal serving a cultivated catchment area of 500,000 hectares. Developing Afghanistans agriculture sector provides great potential for employment and economic growth, then-U.S. Ambassador John R. Bass said in the release. But the project was not a pressing concern for neighbors, primarily because political infighting and chronic instability in northern Afghanistan had made it impractical. Bismellah Alizada, a researcher at Londons School of Oriental and African Studies, told RFE/RL that Rashid Dostum, who was the Afghan first vice president from 2014 to 2020, was among the influential politicians with concerns about the project. One of those concerns was that it would be used to benefit and resettle members of the politically dominant Pashtun group to which President Ashraf Ghani belonged, Alizada said. Dostum -- an ethnic Uzbek warlord -- long enjoyed strong ties to the regime in Uzbekistan and was even reported to have fled there when the Taliban captured Mazar-e Sharif, overwhelming forces jointly under his command before the group advanced on Kabul. Members of Dostums exiled Junbish-e Milli party have reiterated these concerns more recently, but the reality is that the Taliban has no opponents capable of preventing it from forging ahead with giant public works projects, Alizada said. More obvious obstacles are technical capacity and cash, with billions of dollars in funds belonging to Afghanistans central bank frozen after the Taliban takeover. That would make it hard for the cash-strapped Taliban to finance a project whose first phase cost nearly $100 million, according to reports. But Graeme Smith, a senior consultant for the International Crisis Groups Asia Program, said the Taliban has a strong political will to finish off projects begun by the former government with Qosh Tepa the biggest that the group has revived so far. With their very limited resources, the Taliban have prioritized [Qosh Tepa], said Smith, expressing skepticism that the Islamic fundamentalist group would pay attention to its neighbors concerns. The Taliban is a nationalist movement intensely focused on their domestic constituencies, Smith said. I think its fair to assume they will continue governing with a strong focus on issues inside the country and less regard for concerns outside, he told RFE/RL. Games Of Leverage Taciturn Turkmenistan has so far said nothing about the canal project. But a Turkmenistan-based hydrologist speaking in March to RFE/RLs Turkmen Service on condition of anonymity called the project not a problem, but a disaster. RFE/RL correspondents in the closed authoritarian country reported this year about severe water shortages in Turkmenistans Soviet-built Karakum Canal, which is four times the length of the one the Taliban is seeking to complete. The World Resources Institute in 2019 ranked Turkmenistan as one of 17 countries in the world with extremely high water stress. Uzbekistan and Afghanistan were placed in the next highest category. Central Asia as a whole depends on rivers that rise in mountains, where many glacier stocks are being depleted by climate change. Tashkent, whose own Moscow-imposed, cotton-growing legacy is one of the chief causes of the Amu Daryas demise, has been more proactive on Qosh Tepa. According to the Talibans deputy prime minister for economic affairs, Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar, the topic was among those broached by Uzbek presidential envoy and former Foreign Minister Abdulaziz Komilov when he was in Kabul last month for talks on economic cooperation. Komilov was cited by Baradars office as saying that Uzbekistan was ready to work with the Islamic emirate (the Taliban-ruled Afghanistan) through technical teams in order to maximize the benefits of the Qosh Tepa canal project. Uzbekistan provided no comment to that effect in its release on the talks, but President Shavkat Mirziyoev -- in a national address in December -- flagged Qosh Tepa as a concern as he touched on the problem of desertification. At the moment, we consider it necessary to conduct practical talks on the construction of a new canal in the Amu Darya basin with the interim government of neighboring Afghanistan and the international community based on international standards and taking into account the interests of all countries in the region, he said. We believe that this approach will be supported by our neighbors. Mirziyoevs preference for dialogue over threats on transboundary water use has been welcomed by the neighborhood since predecessor Islam Karimov passed away in 2016. This appears to have worked with upstream Kyrgyzstan, where successful border negotiations saw Uzbekistan granted de facto control of a strategic reservoir located inside Kyrgyz territory, albeit not without a rash of political discontent in Kyrgyzstan. And although authoritarian Karimov virulently opposed the construction of giant hydroelectric dams in Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan, Mirziyoev has given both his blessing, with Tashkent even attaching itself to Kyrgyzstans Kambar-Ata-1 project as a partner -- a move that will give it a hand in upstream management. Qosh Tepa, however, is becoming a source of public anxiety in Uzbekistan. With the volume of the Amu Darya water [already] decreasing, Afghans will take a quarter of its water through this canal, complained Uzbek academic and outspoken government critic Khidirnazar Allakulov in an interview with RFE/RLs Uzbek Service. Instead of solving the problem, the Uzbek government takes the Taliban to Samarkand, dressing them and presenting them with gifts. The government bows to Afghanistan.. Not only the current generation, but also future [Uzbek] generations can be endangered by the water problem, Allakulov said. Regular exchanges between the Turkmen and Uzbek governments and the Taliban predated the fall of the Ghani government, and Turkmenistan was among the first countries in the world to accept a Taliban-appointed ambassador. But in line with the international community as a whole, neither has recognized the new regime in Kabul. This only complicates what Alizada calls the legal lacuna between Afghanistan and its former communist neighbors, since Kabul had not previously signed treaties with them on transboundary management. And while Afghanistan is keen for more trade opportunities and relies on its northern neighbors for supplies of electricity for several provinces, there are other areas of these bilateral relations where the Taliban feels it has real leverage, Alizada argued. For the Central Asian countries, I think the number one concern is hard security, especially with the regions history with transnational extremist groups. The Taliban will continue to use assurances on security in negotiations with these countries going forward. Welcome back to The Farda Briefing, an RFE/RL newsletter that tracks the key issues in Iran and explains why they matter. To subscribe, click here. www.rferl.org/a/31793259.html I'm RFE/RL correspondent Golnaz Esfandiari. Here's what I've been following during the past week and what I'm watching for in the days ahead. The Big Issue Iran appears to be making headway toward renewing official ties with Saudi Arabia and Persian Gulf states that in some cases have been publicly avoiding Tehran for decades. The foreign ministers of Iran and Saudi Arabia held talks in Beijing on April 6 in a significant step toward restoring diplomatic relations, which were cut in 2016 after protesters attacked Saudi diplomatic missions in Iran following Riyadhs execution of prominent Saudi Shi'ite cleric Sheikh Nimr al-Nimr. Iran also accepted an invitation from Saudi King Salman for President Ebrahim Raisi to visit Riyadh, while Tehran said it will send a similar invitation to the Saudi king. Meanwhile, a Saudi delegation traveled to Iran on April 9 to discuss the reopening of the embassy in Tehran and a consulate in Mashhad. The trip came as Iranian media reported on April 8 that a street sign near the Saudi consulate in Mashhad provocatively named after Sheikh al-Nimr had been quietly removed. An Iranian delegation also arrived in Saudi Arabia on April 12 to pave the way for the reopening of Iranian diplomatic missions there. Iran is meanwhile taking steps to improve ties with other countries in the region, naming an ambassador to the United Arab Emirates (U.A.E.) and working to decrease tensions with Egypt and Bahrain. Why It Matters: Iran and Saudi Arabia appear to be pursuing implementation of last months Chinese-brokered agreement, possibly clearing the way for Tehran to de-escalate tensions with other countries that followed Riyadhs lead on a rupture seven years ago. What's Next: Tehran and Riyadh could move surprisingly swiftly toward normalization, but its no sure thing. Abdolrasool Divsallar, a visiting professor at the Catholic University of Milan (UCSC), told me that the political environment between the two regional rivals could encourage the start of military and security talks within months. But Divsallar also warned that opponents at home and abroad could still undermine the agreement. Hard-liners in Iran may act as a spoiler rather than as a supporter of the deal, he said, adding that Israel could do the same. The regional tensions between Israel and Iran, on one side, andbetween Iran, Saudi [Arabia] and the United States, on the other side, are two dynamics that make this process very fragile, he said. Divsallar also suggested that any normalization between Iran and countries with less appetite for a quick restoration of ties, for instance Bahrain, could take longer. They feel more secure under the current status quo rather than immediately normalizing their ties with the Islamic republic and losing their leverage, he said, adding, They may wait to see a major change of policies. Stories You Might Have Missed Irans civil aviation sector has for years been under Western sanctions that prevent it from purchasing new aircraft or spare parts for repairs. Now, Russia's oldest airline, Aeroflot, has sent one of its passenger planes to Iran for repairs for the first time ever. Aeroflot reportedly ran into obstacles at home stemming from Western sanctions over Russias ongoing, unprovoked invasion of Ukraine. The RBK media group cited an Aeroflot representative and sources close to the company on April 11 as saying that an Airbus A330-300 had been sent to Tehran on April 5 to be repaired by specialists from Iran's Mahan Air. Iranian pensioners staged protests in more than a dozen cities across Iran, demanding higher pensions amid soaring prices. Protests were reported on April 9 in Tehran, Ahvaz, Mashhad, Isfahan, Arak, Qom, Shush, Tabriz, and several other cities where retirees complained of poor living conditions and chanted anti-government slogans. Labor protests in Iran have swelled as the economy deteriorates following years of mismanagement compounded by crippling U.S. sanctions. What We're Watching Prominent Iranian female religious scholar Sedigheh Vasmaghi has challenged Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei over the Islamic republics mandatory hijab law. In a letter published online, Vasmaghi asked about the reasoning behind Irans strict model for womens dress and said the Koran does not specify the need for women to cover their hair in public. There is no evidence to show that during the time of the Prophet Muhammad women were harassed and punished for not covering their hair or even their bodies, Vasmaghi, who has published several books on Islamic jurisprudence, wrote. Why It Matters: Vasmaghis letter is significant for its timing -- just days after Khamenei asserted that the removal of the hijab in public was religiously banned. But it is also important because it comes from a religious woman who wears the veil while opposing the mandatory hijab, which is seemingly being defied by a growing number of women. That's all from me for now. Don't forget to send me any questions, comments, or tips that you have. Until next time, Golnaz Esfandiari If you enjoyed this briefing and don't want to miss the next edition, subscribe here. It will be sent to your inbox every Wednesday. QYZYLORDA, Kazakhstan -- The family of a Kazakh man who was shot dead just hours after giving a speech to demonstrators during nationwide protests in January 2022 is fighting to clear his name. Prosecutors charged Farkhat Omarov after his death with taking part in mass riots, assaulting police officers, and unlawfully entering a police station. But in a rare occurrence, a court in the southern city of Qyzylorda recently ruled there were "serious violations" of the law during the probe and ordered a further investigation. Omarov's brother, Maksat, says the family believes he was the victim of an assault and accuse the police of faking evidence to incriminate him. They want the authorities to drop the charges and open a criminal probe into his killing. Omarov, 29, was an ordinary family man, according to his relatives. The father of two worked as a trader in the Qyzylorda bazaar and lived comfortably, they say. He owned a house and a car, and was known for helping those in need by buying them food and coal. In early January 2022, a rally against a fuel price hike in the western town of Zhanaozen spread to the rest of Kazakhstan, including Omarov's native Qyzylorda, a steppe town of some 355,000 people. Like hundreds of other men and women in Qyzylorda, Omarov joined anti-government protests. He addressed the protesters gathered on Nazarbaev Avenue, speaking about the plight of common people in the oil-rich country and said their situation won't improve until widespread corruption is rooted out. Just hours later, on January 5, he was shot dead near the city's police headquarters. Meanwhile, the nationwide demonstrations turned into riots in several places, with groups of people attacking public buildings and businesses -- actions blamed by many on "provocateurs" who were not part of the protests. According to the government, more than 230 people were killed in the violence and hundreds wounded. Omarov's family says he went to the police station only to ask the commanders to stop shooting at unarmed protesters. Prosecutors, however, accuse him of unlawfully entering the station and assaulting police. According to his family, Farkhat told police officers "not to repeat the Zhanaozen" tragedy, referring to the infamous killing of at least 14 anti-government protesters in the oil-drilling town in 2011. "My brother hadn't even entered the front yard of the police headquarters. He stood outside the fence with his friends and spoke to police [commander] Zhandos Estaev, who was standing on the other side of the fence," Maksat told RFE/RL. Both Omarov and Estaev were hit by bullets there. Omarov died at the scene after getting hit by two bullets, one near his heart and the other in his leg. Estaev, who was hit in the back, "miraculously survived," according to police reports. Prosecutors said in April 2022 they had opened criminal cases against 24 people who attacked the Qyzylorda police headquarters "more than 10 times" on January 5. "The terrorists were in a truck and rammed the gate, opened fire with hunting rifles, and set fire to the checkpoint, security cameras, and patrol vehicles," the prosecutor's report said. Twenty of the attackers, including Omarov, were shot dead at the scene as police were forced to return fire, authorities claimed. Omarov was initially charged with terrorism. But that charge has since been dropped. In a preliminary hearing in December, the Qyzylorda court returned the case to prosecutors for more investigation, citing procedural violations during their work. RFE/RL contacted the Prosecutor-General's Office in Qyzylorda for comments about what happened on January 26. The office confirmed that the case had indeed been returned to them due to "serious violations." But it declined to provide further details, citing the ongoing probe. 'Fake Evidence' According to the family, the case is based on the eyewitness accounts of five police officers who said they saw Omarov shooting at Estaev. But the wounded commander told investigators he didn't know who had shot at him. Maksat accuses the officers of using fake evidence. "There is CCTV footage of a young man who is running with a weapon in his hands, and the policemen identified him as my brother. But you can see that he is wearing a completely different jacket -- different color, different style," he said. The family showed the authorities the jacket Omarov was wearing when he was killed. The jacket is "pierced by a bullet" and bloodied, Maksat said. The family also argues that Estaev was shot in the back while he was facing Omarov. They say Estaev and Omarov were probably shot by snipers on the rooftop of the police building. Bullet marks on the wrought-iron fence show the bullets came from inside, not outside of the police station, Maksat said. In another blow to the prosecutors' case, family friend Talgat Meshitali has given a written statement in which he accused police of providing false evidence on his behalf that incriminated Omarov. The investigation into Omarov's death continues. Written by Farangis Najibullah in Prague based on reporting by Ainur Saparova of RFE/RL's Kazakh Service BELGRADE -- Bosnian Serb leader Milorad Dodik -- who has been sanctioned by the United States and Britain over alleged destabilization efforts and corruption -- has threatened that he could push for the independence of the Serbian entity of Bosnia-Herzegovina over a dispute involving a controversial property law. We are considering in the most serious terms to make a decision on independence and secede Republika Srpska [from Bosnia] unless the property issue is solved," Dodik said on April 14 while on a visit to Belgrade to meet Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic. Republika Srpska has tried multiple times to implement a property law that aims to transfer Bosnian state property to Republika Srpska, despite it being deemed unconstitutional. Republika Srpska authorities said they were implementing the law in late February. However, it represents a direct challenge to previous decisions by the high representative to Bosnia, Christian Schmidt, to repeal the decree creating the law and to suspend it pending a final decision by Bosnias Constitutional Court. Republika Srpska says the law aims to ensure that properties used by the authorities of the entity, including local governments, public companies, public institutions, and other departments founded by Republika Srpska belong to them. The countrys Constitutional Court has stated that the national parliament must adopt a property law that would be valid across Bosnia and not one of the countrys two entities. The 1995 Dayton Agreement ended the Bosnian civil war and established an administrative system under which Bosnia remains partitioned between the Serbian entity -- Republika Srpska -- and the Bosniak-Croat federation, connected by a weak central government. Dodik has long threatened to seek Republika Srpska's independence from the rest of Bosnia. He rejects the administrative arrangement and the authority of the Office of the High Representative, the international community's overseer of civil and other aspects of the Dayton Agreement. With reporting by Reuters Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy warned on February 4 that Russia was throwing more and more forces into battle and that the situation on the front lines in the eastern parts of the country was getting more severe. "The occupier is throwing more and more of his forces into breaking down our defenses," Zelenskiy said in his nighty video address, adding that the situation was "very difficult" in Bakhmut, Vuhledar, Lyman, and other areas. His warning came as Energy Minister Herman Halushchenko said that power had been restored to critical infrastructure in the southern port city of Odesa following an accident at a substation. "Power to all critical infrastructure has been restored. The city will therefore have water and heat," Halushchenko said on Facebook. "About one-third of the city's consumers now have lighting," he said, without offering more details. Earlier, regional Governor Maksym Marchenko said a "serious" accident at a high-voltage substation had left a half-million households without power in Odesa, confirming earlier reports about an accident at a facility that was previously targeted in Russian strikes. "A serious accident occurred at one of the energy facilities, which caused a fire," he said, adding that emergency measures were being taken. Earlier, an air-raid alert for the whole of Ukraine was canceled without any reports of Russian shelling as Ukrainian defenders faced renewed attacks by Moscow's troops in the eastern regions of Donetsk and Luhansk over the past 24 hours. The alert, which lasted for about two hours in the morning, was the third in two days. No massive Russian strikes on civilian and infrastructure targets were reported on February 3 either. Amid warnings that a massive Russian offensive is in the making as Moscow's unprovoked invasion nears the one-year mark, the military said fighting had intensified in the Donbas. "The enemy continues offensive operations in the Lyman, Bakhmut, Avdiyivka, and Novopavlivka areas [of Donetsk], suffering heavy losses," Ukraine's General Staff said in its report. Battles have been raging for months for the city of Bakhmut, where waves of Russian attackers are piling increasing pressure on the Ukrainian forces. Witnesses have told RFE/RL that street fighting is under way in Bakhmut, with building-by-building combat on the outskirts of the city. Zelenskiy said on February 3 that Ukrainian forces will continue their fight to hold on to Bakhmut. "Nobody will give away Bakhmut. We will fight for as long as we can. We consider Bakhmut our fortress," he said. Zelenskiy's comments come after U.S. media reports saying the United States had advised Ukraine to withdraw from Bakhmut. U.S. officials quoted by Bloomberg said this would allow Kyiv to gather forces for a spring offensive. The General Staff said on February 4 that the Ukrainian military also repelled Russian attacks in the Grekivka, Nevske, Kreminna, and Dibrova settlements in the Luhansk region. Russian forces carried out 20 air strikes and three missile strikes, the military said, targeting civilian infrastructure of the Kharkiv and Mykolayiv regions, causing civilian casualties. Zelenskiy said Ukrainian forces "have a chance" of beating back a looming Russian offensive if supplied with the right Western weapons. Live Briefing: Russia's Invasion Of Ukraine RFE/RL's Live Briefing gives you all of the latest developments on Russia's full-scale invasion, Kyiv's counteroffensives, Western military aid, global reaction, and the plight of civilians. For all of RFE/RL's coverage of the war, click here. "If weapon [supplies] are accelerated, specifically long-range weapons, not only will we not abandon Bakhmut but we will also begin to remove the [Russian] occupiers from the Donbas," he said. Zelenskiy said European sanctions should aim to ensure Russia cannot rebuild its military capability. On February 4, Zelenskiy said he discussed the "further expansion of capabilities" of Ukraine's military in a call with British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak. Zelenskiy said he also thanked Sunak for the start of training of Ukrainian crews on Challenger 2 tanks. "The prime minister said he was focused on ensuring the U.K.'s defensive military equipment reached the front line as quickly as possible," Sunak's office said in a readout of the call. "Both leaders agreed that it was vital that international partners accelerated their assistance to Ukraine to help seize the opportunity to push Russian forces back," it added. The United States on February 3 announced a fresh $2.2 billion package of military aid for Ukraine that will include rockets with a range twice the distance of the rockets Ukraine now has. The Ground-Launched Small-Diameter Bomb (GLSDB) is included in the package announced by the Pentagon. GLSDBs have a range roughly double that of the High-Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) already supplied. Kyiv is requesting more powerful modern weapons, including F-16 fighter jets, even after securing pledges from its Western allies to send tanks as its forces brace for an expected new Russian onslaught in the east. Meanwhile, Portugal will send Leopard 2 tanks to Ukraine, Prime Minister Antonio Costa said on February 4, without specifying how many will be shipped. Costa added that Portugal is in talks with Germany to obtain parts needed for the repair of a number of inoperable Leopard tanks in Portugal's inventory. "I know how many tanks will be (sent to Ukraine) but that will be announced at the appropriate time," Costa told the Lusa news agency during a trip to the Central African Republic. The EU announced on February 3 that it is ramping up its military training mission for Ukraine, raising it from an initial target of 15,000 troops to up to 30,000. With reporting by Reuters. dpa, and AFP Russia and Ukraine on February 4 announced an exchange of prisoners that led to the release of 63 Russians and 116 Ukrainians and the return of the bodies of two foreign volunteers who were involved in humanitarian work in the eastern Ukrainian region of Donetsk. The Russian Ministry of Defense reported the return of its 63 Russian soldiers in a statement on its Telegram channel. The statement said that among those released were persons belonging to a "sensitive category," without elaborating. It added that the exchange was facilitated "thanks to the mediation of the leadership of the United Arab Emirates." Ukrainian authorities, meanwhile, reported that 116 prisoners had returned home. Andriy Yermak, head of Ukraine's presidential office, wrote on Telegram that among them were "defenders of Mariupol, Kherson partisans, snipers from the Bakhmut area." In addition, Yermak wrote, the bodies of two dead foreign volunteers -- Briton Christopher Matthew Parry and New Zealander Andrew Tobias Matthew Bagshaw -- as well as the body of deceased Ukrainian volunteer Yevhen Kulik, who served in the French Foreign Legion, were returned to Ukraine. Parry and Bagshaw, two volunteers who were helping with the evacuation of civilians and delivering humanitarian aid, were reported missing on January 7 in Donetsk. They had last been seen the previous day on their way from Kramatorsk to Soledar, where heavy fighting had been under way between Ukrainian defenders and Russian forces. Soon after, the family of one of the two volunteers said that the men were killed during an attempt to carry out a humanitarian evacuation. Yermak also published a short video purporting to show released Ukrainian prisoners traveling by bus and two photos of men holding Ukrainian flags in front of a bus. The interface of an app that calls itself ChatGTP and requires users to pay for usage. Photo by VnExpress/Luu Quy People have been flocking to the App Store and Play Store to look for ChatGPT, the trending AI language model that can only be accessed through web browsers. It is available for free at chat.openai.com but not yet in Vietnam. "Many people were curious and installed fake apps instead, and were told to pay if they want to use them," Duc Cuong, a technician at a media firm in Hanois Tu Liem District, said. Since the ChatGPT craze appeared in Vietnam in late January, most people who requested his help thought it was an app that could be downloaded from a digital store. On the App Store and Play Store, several apps masquerading as ChatGPT can be seen. A search with the keyword "ChatGPT" comes up with hundreds of results, with several apps recording up to a million downloads. Many have logos that are similar to OpenAIs. Most have a poorly designed interface, and always demand payment for use. A user named HuyNg commented on an app that masqueraded as ChatGPT with a 1-star rating: "The apps dont work. I havent used them yet and they required me to pay up. Beware of scams." The Nam, an administrator of a social media group for using ChatGPT, said he is asked questions like "How to install ChatGPT on an iPhone?" and "Where can I find a link to download ChatGPT?" "People need to understand that OpenAI has yet to make ChatGPT available as an app. It is available for free through web browsers. As such, one should consider carefully before paying money for an app that calls itself ChatGPT." Cybersecurity experts also warn that criminals could make use of the ChatGPT craze to steal data by tricking them into downloading counterfeit apps. "Which app should I install in order to use ChatGPT?" is a question that Duc Cuong, a technician at a media firm in Hanois Tu Liem District, has heard frequently in the past couple days. When the ChatGPT craze swept over Vietnam since late January, most people who requested his help thought that ChatGPT was an app that could be downloaded from a digital store. After the location tracking app Zenly was shut down, many young people in Vietnam have searched for replacements, considering them 'essential' to stay connected with friends, despite data exploitation warnings. Bao Ngoc, a 21-year-old student in Hanoi, said he and his group of 20 friends had been loyal Zenly users for 3 years. But the 10-year-old app, which is owned by Snap, officially shut down on February 2. "The end of the app made our group disheartened, so we wanted to find a similar app to replace it," Ngoc said. Potential candidates include Whoo, BFF or iSharing, Ngoc said. Each of them have different functionalities, but all are similar to the now-defunct Zenly. However, the most popular location-tracking app in Vietnam at the moment is Whoo. Data from Google Trends revealed that the number of searches for the keyword "Whoo" has tripled since the end of January. Over the past week, Whoo has also ranked among the most downloaded apps on the App Store and Play Store. Whoo, developed by Japanese firm LinQ, was released on iOS in December last year, and then on Android in January. The app garnered over 100,000 downloads on the Play Store in just 10 days. Its interface and functionalities are similar to Zenly, including its ability to see friends' battery charges, how much time they stay in one place, and the speed at which they are moving. According to Ngoc, Whoo copied many of Zenly's tracking functionalities. Double-edged Ngo Minh Hieu, a cybersecurity expert, said locations are considered sensitive personal info, and such info could be dangerous if it falls into the wrong hands. Apps that encourage users to share their locations always harbor the risk of such data being exploited to track users, he said. Zenly, for example, can be discreetly installed on a phone to run invisibly in the background, a trait which users have taken advantage of to track other people covertly. For example, a parent can install it on a child's phone to track them, as a lover can also do with a partner, without the phone users' knowledge. Besides sharing locations, these apps also ask for access to users' contacts, camera and other functionalities. Hieu said the Whoo version for Android in particular requests access to several functionalities at the same time, including potentially dangerous ones like locations and data recording. "Developers all claim that they don't make money on users' data, but in reality, users have no way to know how their data is used, not to mention the risk of developers getting hacked and data being stolen," said Hieu, adding that using access restriction phone settings is the best way for users to protect their data. Ngoc said his group of friends is a close-knitted one, so location sharing is not a big deal. He said its "useful" whenever they want to meet up. Hoang Yen, another Whoo user in the southern province of Bac Lieu, said she is used to staying connected with her best friends through location tracking apps. "Essential," is what she called such apps. "But we've told each other not to let strangers track us, and we can also turn off tracking when we need privacy," Yen said. Tourists wait for their boats in Phuket, Thailand. Photo by Reuters Americans spend an average of 96,269 baht (US$2,887) per person while traveling in Thailand, higher than European visitors, who spend $2,684, a survey shows. U.S. tourists spend an average of 2,000-3,000 baht on accommodation a night and they always stay in the country up to 15 days per trip, according to the survey conducted by the Tourism Council of Thailand, which polled 200 Western tourists during the final quarter of last year. The survey also showed that European tourists spend 1,000-2,000 baht per night on accommodations and stay in Thailand for 13 days on average. In Vietnam, foreign tourists spent $117.80 a day in 2019, the year before the onset of the pandemic, according to statistics from the General Statistics Office (GSO). On average, foreign tourists in Vietnam spent about $35.50 for accommodations, $25.80 for food, $18.90 for transportation, $19.70 for shopping and about $18 for other expenses, such as sightseeing and medical services. Vietnam welcomed a record 18 million foreign tourists in 2019. The country reopened its borders in March 2022 and received 3.6 million foreign arrivals for the year. Thailand welcomed 11 million foreign visitors last year thanks to its open visa policy, making its tourism industry among the fastest to recover in the region following the Covid-19 pandemic. Granger Music Hall holds a special place in Oma Wegeforths heart. For years, she lived adjacent to the National City landmark, built for her late husbands grandfather, entrepreneur Ralph Granger. Its where Wegeforth and her husband, Lester, hosted countless plays, weddings and other celebrations. I have so many fond memories, Wegeforth, 95, said last week. Advertisement Much to the dismay of Wegefort and many others the historic buildings condition has deteriorated over the past decade. Weather conditions, vandals and very little upkeep have contributed to the damage. Wegeforth has waited anxiously for the city to take action to preserve the music hall, which has been unused for the past decade. Now, her wish is starting to come true. National City plans to put forth a proposal that would relocate Granger Music Hall to the Marina District and, subsequently, restore the building all as part of the Port of San Diegos plans to expand Pepper Park. In its proposal to the Ports board, National City will include an incentive for the Port to undertake the relocation/rehabilitation project: the city will offer the net proceeds from the sale of the music halls current site to help fund the planned expansion of the 5 -acre park on the waterfront. Construction for the expansion, which is dependent on the results of an environmental impact report and approval from the California Costal Commission, could begin in late 2019. Deputy City Manager Brad Raulston said National City has lacked the funds to fix and preserve the music hall, a registered historic site since 1975. Because it is not rented out, the city does not generate revenue. Raulston said the music halls location on Fourth Street is not ideal to begin with. The building is nestled between Interstate 805 and the California National Guards armory on Palm Avenue. Its not an attractive location, Raulston said. Raulston and other proponents of the idea to relocate the music hall believe the waterfront is a much better location, one that will enable the use of the venue once again. Built in the late 1890s to house Ralph Grangers rare collection of violins, the music hall was relocated once before, in 1969, from its original site on Eighth Street, near Paradise Valley Hospitals current location. The music hall, which was designed by renowned San Diego architect Irving Gill, fell into the hands of the National City Historical Society by way of a donation from Oma Wegeforth. The nonprofit, which managed the hall for about 30 years, held meetings at the site and rented out the hall to the community for events. The music hall has not been used since the Historical Society turned it over to the city in 2008. The move occurred with the understanding that the facility was in need of extensive repairs and would remain closed to the public until repairs were completed, according to a city staff report shared with the City Council last month. Janice Martinelli, the Historical Societys president, said her organization gave up ownership of the music hall because the group wanted the city to relocate the building to the Marina District an idea that was generally backed by the city and the Port. Martinelli expressed frustration over what she considered a lack of effort by the city to restore and relocate the music hall all these years. The building has really suffered so much decay from sitting so long without use, she said. Raulston said the relocation idea was stalled over the years by other negotiations and discussions between the city and the Port about the land use and facilities at the Marina District. In May, the city requested an update to a relocation feasibility study done in 2010. Presented to the city in November, the report includes a site assessment of the music hall, an evaluation of compliance with city codes and regulations, and cost estimates for relocation and restoration options. According to the report, it would cost an estimated $560,000 to restore the music hall at its current site and roughly $2.4 million to relocate the building to the Marina District and subsequently restore the building. In regard to the state of the music hall, the report concluded that the overall condition of the building has been downgraded to fair due to years of deferred maintenance. The report highlights damage the building has suffered over the years, such as an oval window broken by either transients or vandals, carpet on original hardwood flooring damaged by water, sections of the hand-painted ceiling damaged by a partial roof collapse and a roof porch with significant wood deterioration caused by fungi and termites. The report also points to some steps the city has taken to temporarily fix the issues, including nailing a plastic tarp to the roof and boarding up broken windows. I think weve done the best with the limited resources, Raulston said. Now its time for everyone to get behind this plan. For Oma Wegeforth, news of the citys impending proposal was music to her ears. I think that will make me sleep better, she said. Email: david.hernandez@sduniontribune.com Phone: (619) 293-1876 Twitter: @D4VIDHernandez A comment from a user says: Messages could not be unsent on Messenger, and the Wifi connection has been mistakenly blamed for it. Sorry." Photo by VnExpress/Luu Quy Messenger users in Vietnam are reporting that the Facebook apps unsend feature has not been working properly. Ngoc Anh, a communications officer in Hanoi, wanted to invite her colleague to lunch on Friday, but she mistakenly texted and sent a photo to her boss. She hurriedly pressed the command "Unsend for Everyone," but the system was unresponsive. Users in Vietnam lodged numerous complaints about the error with Facebook on Friday, citing several embarrassing and unpleasant experiences the snafu had caused them. "I sent a few photos to tease my friend, but I sent them to the wrong person by mistake. Because I could not unsend them, my jokes were misunderstood," said Thuy Dung, a student in Ho Chi Minh City. The error has occurred on both the phone app and the web browser, according to users. Other app features have reportedly been working normally, including the "Remove for You" function. On Downdetector, a website specializing in monitoring Internet problems, the number of complaints about errors on Messenger increased Friday morning. However, 49% of the reports were related to sending messages, and few reports were about the unsend error. According to Hoang Khang, who specializes in providing services on social networks, the unsend problem must have occurred on a relatively small scale locally in Vietnam, not globally. As of 4:30 p.m., the error had not been fixed and the Messenger apps developer Meta had not responded to the problem. Messenger is one of the most popular messaging applications in Vietnam. On the App Store, the app ranks fifth among the most downloaded social networking apps. Messenger has reached 5 billion downloads on Google Play. Last year, services provided by Meta apps encountered a variety of frequent errors, including displaying old posts on groups and not displaying images properly. By Saturday morning the glitch had been fixed. An area is considered desert if it receives less than 10 inches of annual precipitation. An area receiving more is considered simply arid. Elkos average annual precipitation is 9.99 inches. So in a wet year, we live in an arid country and during a dry year, we live in a desert. The Great Basin, whether semi-arid or desert, has one defining characteristic concerning precipitation. Annual precipitation is highly variable. We see wild extremes of climate in the Great Basin, a characteristic seen more in arid areas than moist ones. During most years in Elko, we receive less than that annual precipitation of 9.99 inches. But during wet years, the amount of precipitation tends to be more extreme, which is how we arrive at the average. Perhaps this year will prove to be an extreme wet year. These large swings in annual precipitation affect plant life. Wet years can produce six times more plant growth than dry years. Because of this, wet years also see an increase in wildlife populations. A local rancher told me it is not the wet years that produce large wildfires. It is the next dry year when all that vegetation produced during the wet year is standing dry. Wet years also see extensive die-offs of desert shrubs, but dry years produce die-offs of shallow-rooted perennial grasses. These wild fluctuations in annual precipitation make land management difficult and make it difficult to plan large projects. More than one great idea for improving landscape habitat has been thwarted by the next year being a dry year. Precipitation records go back to the 1870s. Several years during the 1870s were dry while the year 1873-74 was cold and snowy, as was the winter of 1875-76. At the end of that decade, the severe winter of 1879-80 killed one-third of Nevadas livestock. Then the years of 1887-89 were dry, with 1889 being the driest in Nevada until 1931. Then the huge precipitation during the winter of 1889-90 created the most severe winter seen in Nevada. Very heavy snow buildup occurred in the Ruby Mountains during the winter of 1916-17, followed by three years of drought. In 1919, Elko received the least amount of precipitation on record, 4.3 inches. The winter of 1923-24 was also extremely dry. In 1925, precipitation was heavy. Extreme winters in 1948-49 and 1951-52 were some of the worst seen in recorded time. Yet in 1954, stretches of the lower South Fork of the Humboldt River went dry. Wet years of 1983-84 saw a large expansion of the Great Salt Lake. In 1983, Elko saw the highest annual precipitation at 18.3 inches. Several pluvial lakes in this area filled with water but were again dry by the dry year of 1992. Yet most of the 1990s were wet years, with a large flood on the Truckee River in 1997. From 1999-2009, most years were dry except for 2005 and 2006. ELKO An Idaho man arrested Dec. 3 at the Elko Indian Colony on suspicion of kidnapping, sexual assault, battery and attempted murder has only been charged with battery, according to court records. Police were contacted at 4:50 a.m. by a caller who said a man was chasing a victim who was trying to get away from him. They were able to identify the suspect as Oscar J. Hanes, 41, of Idaho Falls. The residence was surrounded with help from the FBI, Bureau of Indian Affairs and the Combined SWAT Team. After several hours the victim came out of the house. Hanes eventually exited the residence and was arrested. His bail was originally listed at $710,000 on the multiple charges but the District Attorneys Office has only filed two formal counts of battery by strangulation. The original report published in the Elko Daily Free Press incorrectly identified the alleged victim as a minor. According to Elko County Sheriffs Office records, Hanes remains in jail. Do Viet Ha, HUFO President and Indian Consul General to Ho Chi Minh City Madan Mohan Sethi perform the traditional candle burning ceremony of the Indian people. (Photo: TDO) Speaking at the meeting, President of the Vietnam India Friendship Association of Ho Chi Minh City Huynh Thanh Lap highlighted the significance of the historic date of January 26, 1950, when the Constitution of India with basic political principles took effect, creating a foundation for India to develop into the power it is today. He stressed that Vietnam and India have a long-standing and traditional relationship, originating from trade to cultural, artistic and religious relations. In particular, the historic meeting between President Ho Chi Minh and Indian Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru in 1954 brought Vietnam and India closer together, standing shoulder to shoulder through all the ups and downs of history. He noted that since the establishment of diplomatic ties in 1972 which were upgraded to a strategic partnership in 2007 and then a comprehensive strategic partnership in 2017, the Vietnam India relations have been growing strongly, and recording great achievements across cooperation pillars such as politics diplomacy, defence security, trade - investment, science technology, culture, and people-to-people exchange. On this occasion, he thanked the Indian Consulate General in HCM City and the Indian Business Association in Vietnam for their coordination in organising activities to mark the 50th anniversary of Vietnam India diplomatic ties in 2022, expressing his hope to continue receiving support from the agency in people-to-people diplomatic events, thus deepening the bilateral relations. Indian Consul General to Ho Chi Minh City Madan Mohan Sethi expressed his delight at the fruitful development of India-Vietnam relations in recent years, especially in economy, education and tourism. Two-way trade turnover between the two countries in 2022 reached more than VND15 billion, towards the prospect of reaching the target of USD20 billion by 2025. Tourism and people-to-people exchanges between the two countries also saw strong growth with 120,000 Indian tourists coming to Vietnam and more than 20,000 Vietnamese people coming to India in the second half of 2022 alone. He thanked HUFO for hosting the get-together, and other people-to-people exchange events which have contributed to strengthening cooperation, solidarity and friendship between the two countries people. He hoped that HUFO and the India - Vietnam Friendship Association of HCM City will enhance coordination with the Consulate General to connect Vietnamese and Indian businesses, towards expanding cooperation in trade, investment, health care and education./. The biggest provider of payments and financial services, Paytm, announced that it had surpassed its September 2023 projection and had achieved operating profitability with EBITDA before ESOP costs of Rs 31 crore. Paytm's operational revenue climbed by 42% YoY and 8% QoQ to Rs 2,062 crore. As stated by the corporation, the rise was fueled by rising consumer usage, subscription services offered by merchant partners, and ongoing expansion in the loan distribution and commerce sectors. Vijay Shekhar Sharma, the founder and CEO of Paytm, informed shareholders of the success in a letter. "Our team's persistently laser-focused execution has made this feasible. The group was instructed to concentrate on revenue growth that produces high-caliber profits. Without losing sight of development potential and while strictly monitoring all compliance requirements and risk concerns, we have reached this milestone "added he. Contribution profit for the quarter was Rs 1,048 crore, with margins increasing steadily from 31% in December 2021 to 51% in December 2022 due to the growing mix of high margin activities, such as loan distribution, and better profitability of the payments sector. Due to increased profitability in the payments industry, net payment margin increased to Rs 459 crore. Due to a consistent increase in contribution profit and good operating leverage, Paytm's EBITDA before ESOP margin increased from 1% of revenues to 2% of revenues over the previous year. The company claimed that robust revenue momentum persisted across all of its businesses. Thank you for visiting the Daily Journal. Please purchase an Enhanced Subscription to continue reading. To continue, please log in, or sign up for a new account. We offer one free story view per month. If you register for an account, you will get two additional story views. After those three total views, we ask that you support us with a subscription. A subscription to our digital content is so much more than just access to our valuable content. It means youre helping to support a local community institution that has, from its very start, supported the betterment of our society. Thank you very much! Corsage (M) 114 minutes This is the story of Elisabeth, the wife of Emperor Franz Joseph of Austria, who spent much of her life being laced into ever-tighter corsets in case anyone should think she was getting fat. Or rather, its a feminist fable suggested by the life of Sisi - her nickname. It may be entertaining, but its mostly unreliable as a biography. A corsage is also the top half of a womans dress: thats the sense of the title. Sisis corsets are the straitjacket she allows, as part of her campaign to stay beautiful. In 1877, she is now 40, older than the average life expectancy of the women in her empire. Her diet consists largely of beef broth and slices of orange. She is a fashion icon, famous for her elaborate hairdos, but she complains having her hair done is her only official duty. Vicky Krieps gives a stunning performance as Sisi, the rebellious wife of Emperor Franz Joseph of Austria, in Corsage. Credit: Felix Vratny Vicky Krieps, in a spectacular performance, illuminates a rather trudging narrative. Sisi spends much of the film gasping for breath; the rest she spends pining, weeping, brooding and rebelling. There are suicide attempts, heroin use and lots of smoking. Sisi did smoke, which was unusual for a noblewoman in her position. The rest is largely supposition. Her life was full of sadness and madness - but that ran in her family (Ludwig II of Bavaria was her much-loved cousin). In the German-speaking world, she is a household name, thanks in part to a trio of films starring Romy Schneider. The intention seems to be to invoke Diana Spencer, at least in the sense of shared tragedy. Sisi is a monarch for our times, flicking an unhappy finger at Viennas finest. Loading Elisabeth of Bavaria was only 16 when she married the dull and conservative FJ - who probably loved her more than she loved him. She bore him four children but then largely withdrew from royal duty, preferring long trips with her ladies-in-waiting. She was rumoured to have had several lovers. She was probably anorexic and depressive. Here, her remaining children turn against her and her husband (Florian Teichtmeister) is cold. The pace of the film is glacial; the style, repressed but sumptuous. The settings impress us, but not her. Marie Kreutzer, the Vienna writer/director, is bored by mere fact. She gives us deliberate anachronisms - a tractor, a telephone, electrical wires, cinema before its invention - to warn us this is reverie, not reportage. The real Sisi was assassinated by an Italian anarchist on Lake Geneva in 1898, when she was 60. Kreutzer gives her a more exotic ending, as if her assassination was not enough. Kreuzers invention is ingenious wishful thinking - a way of liberating Sisi from history, allowing her a freedom she never had. Theres a fraction too much fiction here. In an interview granted to the Vietnam News Agencys correspondents in Vientiane, Boviengkham Vongdara, member of the Central Committee of the Lao People's Revolutionary Party (LPRP), Minister of Science and Technology of Laos, and President of the Laos-Vietnam Friendship Association (LVFA), highlighted Vietnam's major achievements under the CPV leadership through different periods, including the declaration of independence in 1945, the victories against the French colonialists and the American imperialists between 1945 and 1975. Boviengkham Vongdara, member of the Central Committee of the Lao People's Revolutionary Party, Minister of Science and Technology of Laos, and President of the Laos-Vietnam Friendship Association (Photo: VNA) He also spoke highly of the reunification of the country in 1975, and the post-war national construction and recovery after 1975. He said that the most outstanding success of the Party is its leadership over the Doi Moi (Renewal) cause, switching from a subsidised economic model to a socialist-oriented market economy, helping bring the countrys economy into the contemporary era. He noted that last year, despite COVID-19 impacts and difficulties from the region and the world, Vietnam still posted high economic growth at 8.02%, manifesting the efficiency of the CPVs resolutions. Regarding the partnership between the CPV and the LPRP throughout the history, Boviengkham said that the two parties, which share the same origin and follow the same Marxist-Leninist ideology, have walked hand in hand during the struggle against the common enemy as well as during the national construction, defence and development in each country. The close ties between the two parties over the past decades are the fundamental factor for the growth of the great friendship, special solidarity and comprehensive cooperation between the two countries. The ties are the key factor deciding the glorious victory of the revolutionary cause in each country, he said, expressing belief that the two Parties will continue to work closely in directing the socio-economic development in each country, thus together gaining more success in the future. The LVFA President said that last year, the Vietnam-Laos Friendship and Solidarity Year, the two sides jointly organised various activities in different areas to celebrate the 60th anniversary of bilateral diplomatic relations and 45 years of the bilateral Treaty of Amity and Cooperation. He said he believes that the two Parties, States and peoples will continue to accompany each other in the path towards socialism. On the occasion of the 93rd founding anniversary of the CPV, Boviengkham thanked the Vietnamese Party, Government and people for supporting the revolutionary cause and the national construction and development of Laos over the years. He pledged that the Lao side will continue to work closely with Vietnam to further reinforce the great friendship, special solidarity and comprehensive cooperation between the two Parties, States and peoples, making it thrive further and last forever./. Sydney councils have called for harsher punishments for illegal tree removals, saying paltry fines do little to deter dodgy tree loppers and unscrupulous property developers. Council-led efforts to plant more trees to combat heat waves have also been undermined by the illegal removal of healthy trees on private property. Ku-ring-gai Deputy Mayor Barbara Ward said the councils ability to effectively investigate and pursue illegal tree removal was limited. Credit: Rhett Wyman Ku-ring-gai Council is leading a campaign to increase penalties for illegal tree removal. Its survey of six Sydney councils found general agreement that the current system of fines was inadequate. Ku-ring-gai Council issued 47 penalties for the removal or poisoning of trees in 2020-21, and 43 cautions. Tim Costello with brother Peter then federal treasurer in 1999. One of my university friends remembers when Peter Costello was more left wing and Tim Costello was right wing. Credit: Michael Bowers Fitz: How bad do you see the situation in NSW right now? TC: NSW is in the belly of the beast. Australia has the greatest gambling losses per head in the world, 40 per cent higher than the next nation, and thats largely driven out of pokies in NSW. Taking casinos out of it, NSW has 40 per cent of all the worlds pokies in its pubs and clubs! I dont really have a problem with pokies in casinos its destination gambling, and youre intentionally going there to do it. The problem in NSW is accessibility because theyre on every second block, open 24 hours. People who are only planning to go and shop, go, Ill just slip in for half an hour, and then they lose all track of time, all track of how much money theyve lost. Every single story from a person experiencing harm is the same about being in the zone once in front of these addictive machines. And the problem in NSW is the greatest in the world. Fitz: Okay, let me be devils advocate for a moment and call you, lets see, a wowser dickhead, who wont mind his own business. TC: (Laughs, wryly.) I dont have a problem with gambling, like I dont have a problem with people having a drink. But if 62 per cent of all the profits from alcohol sales were coming from alcoholics, Id go hang on, maybe I need to boycott having a drink, to help stop that social misery. And thats the situation with pokies: 62 per cent of the revenue going through pokies, comes from people who are addicted. Fitz: That is shocking. TC: The Productivity Commission showed 42 per cent of revenue comes from what they call problem gamblers, the addicted, and another 20 per cent is [from] those developing a habit. And the results are devastating: ruined lives, families torn apart, marriage breakups, suicides. Discovering that [poker] machines are built for addiction got me going. Credit: Simon Schluter Fitz: Okay. Defenders of pokies claim that while there might be a bit of a problem, the clubs industry is a great employer and social binder of communities and anti-gambling measures hurt both things. TC: A lot of the clubs are great. One in five clubs in NSW dont even have pokies, and theyre doing wonderful work. My particular problem is the mini-casinos, with 600 plus machines: Penrith Panthers, Canterbury Bankstown and so forth, paying their CEOs salaries of $1.5 million. They have loyalty cards, which is a pre-commitment card only giving incentives to gamble more, and these mini-casinos are drawing over 80 per cent of their revenue from the pokies. They have completely lost that club reciprocity of social responsibility. And by the way, most of the board of ClubsNSW are from those mini casinos. Fitz: Loyalty cards? TC: Its really an incentive card. It grades pokies players from 1 to 5, with 5 the highest category where they lose the most, and helps the staff identify them, give them free drinks and so forth, to help them lose more. And the other huge problem is the pokies are used to launder billions of dollars of dirty money, by drug dealers and criminals of all descriptions. The NSW Crime Commission established that even your suburban crims are in pokies. Fitz: So the solution proposed for both problem gambling and to stop money laundering is the cashless gaming card. How would it work? TC: The card identifies who you are, and is linked to a debit account. You set a limit as to how much you are prepared to lose with total freedom. Its not the government or anyone telling you. You decide. But when you lose that amount, youre locked out. And all machines are linked and talk to each other, so you get a record of your losses and cannot just jump to another venue. So for a start that gets rid of the criminals because theyll never reveal their identity, and they just want to launder the cash. And it allows people to set their own limits, when they are thinking straight. Fitz: What about the clubs having come forth in the last couple of days and saying well introduce our own self-regulation? NSW Premier Dominic Perrottet (left) and former ClubsNSW CEO Josh Landis. Credit: Anna Kucera, Dominic Lorrimer TC: Thats ridiculous like putting Dracula in charge of the blood bank. The most significant part of their business model is built on gambling harm 62 per cent of their revenue and crime. So saying well self-regulate is complete window dressing. Fitz: At least NSW Premier Dominic Perrottet now seems to be backing the cashless gaming card, after enormous resistance. Are you impressed? Is he doing it because the politics are now overwhelmingly negative for those seen to do nothing? Or do you think he has a genuine commitment to helping people? TC: I think its genuine. I think its actually proven by the fact that before the Crime Commission report came out in October last year, identifying all the problems, he was saying he was sick of the social misery pokies are causing even though its great revenue for NSW Treasury. He was saying it early. Fitz: And yet the CEO of ClubsNSW has just had to resign for saying the premier was being driven by his Catholic gut. TC: What was ironic about that statement was, if anything, the Catholics in NSW have been noticeably silent in joining the call for reform. And the reason is, there are lots of Catholic clubs with pokies. Archbishop [Anthony] Fisher is the patron of the Dooleys Lidcombe Catholic Club with millions of pokies dollars flowing in. The Clubs NSW CEO failed to notice that if anything, the Catholics were silent and maybe were on his side. So he totally got that wrong. Fitz: Speaking of faith, when you and I spoke together at that fundraiser up in Lismore a few years back, and were staying in the same home, we talked late into the night about how despite my atheism, and your faith, we have much the same position on many social issues. Has your own faith not wavered over the years? Loading TC: My faith in religion and the institutional church has certainly wavered, but my overall faith in Jesus Christ has only got stronger. We need something transcendent to believe in, something bigger than us. Fitz: I know you come to Sydney fairly regularly. Lets just say that by pure happenstance you had been in Sydney on Thursday and had happened to be passing St. Marys Cathedral in a nice dark suit, just as the mourners were going in for Cardinal Pells funeral, and you had found yourself with three hours free. Would you have attended? TC: I wouldnt have gone in. I wouldnt have been harsh, strident or loud, but I wouldnt have attended the service. Fitz: Why not? TC: Cardinal Pells vision of muscular Christianity firstly is a bit too tone-deaf for me. Secondly, it doesnt include women in leadership certainly not as priests. And thirdly, its clearly been failing children. You know, Jesus didnt say anything about homosexuality, but he does say whoever hurts one of these little children, better a millstone be hung around his neck. And I think the institutional church clearly failed Jesus and, unfortunately, given findings of the royal commission, Pell was complicit in that. Fitz: Thank you for your time. Quote of the week [We should have] Pell study courses, Pell spirituality courses, Pell lectures, Pell high schools, and Pell university colleges. George Pell was the greatest man Ive ever known. Tony Abbott in his eulogy for Cardinal George Pell at St Marys Cathedral on Thursday. Tweet of the week Live your life so the police dont have to hold back 1000s of people at your funeral wishing you to burn in hell for eternity. @RonniSalt Joke of the week I was at a Sothebys art auction in London on Tuesday. The bidding was proceeding furiously when the head auctioneer suddenly announced: A gentleman in this room has lost a wallet containing 10,000. If returned, he will pay a reward of 2000. There is a moments silence in the auction house, before from the back of the room comes a shout, Two thousand five hundred! Warning: The story contains photos that some readers may find confronting. Elmarie Steenberg first remembers seeing the blood on her friends body, then seeing the sea beneath their Sea World helicopter. I was like, Oh, we are going to die today. But Elmarie, her husband Riaan and their friends Edward and Marle Swart are among the nine people who survived the Gold Coast helicopter crash that claimed the lives of four others on January 2. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to hit back at critics of the proposed Voice to Parliament Were sorry, this feature is currently unavailable. Were working to restore it. Please try again later. Dismiss Our network Open Navigation Menu The Sydney Morning Herald Subscribe Police will ramp up patrols of suburban streets in Melbournes east after two men were woken by gunshots being fired at their front door on Saturday morning. The men were asleep when two shots were fired at their home on Dianne Street, Doncaster East, about 5am. Fortunately, the pair was not physically injured. Shots were fired at the Doncaster East home about 5am on Saturday. Credit: Google Police believe the gunman drove to the home, got out of the vehicle, and fired two shots from a shotgun before driving off. Two shotgun cartridges were later found on the footpath. Witnesses told officers they heard the voice of a man around the time of the shooting. Transitioning from coal-fired to renewable energy will involve coordinating different sources of power across the grid to keep Victorias energy flowing in a predictable way. It will pose enormous technological, regulatory, financial and political challenges. Coal is on the way out, but its not straightforward to replace it. Credit: Joe Armao The pace of transition has been so rapid that the Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO) recently predicted that in three years there will be enough renewable energy available, at certain times, to meet 100 per cent of demand. But with the system already under stress, questions are being asked about how the grid, built predominantly to syphon power produced in the Latrobe Valley to Melbourne and regional cities, will handle the rapid increase in intermittent energy produced by wind and solar. While coal turbines produce steady, predictable pulses of electrons, renewable energy is dependent on ever-changing climatic conditions. Even under the flurry of existing and committed energy projects in the pipeline, AEMOs modelling suggests Victoria will face power reliability gaps as early as 2024, with more serious breaches possible from 2028 onwards. Woe betide the government that lets the lights go out. Over the course of 2022, as energy prices were pushed into the stratosphere by Russias invasion of Ukraine and concerns about east coast gas shortages, it became increasingly apparent that Victoria was heading towards an energy cliff. For the Andrews government, the finality of the situation was hammered home by AGLs announcement it would shut its hulking Latrobe Valley Loy Yang A power plant, which supplies about one-third of the states electricity, a decade early in 2035. The State Electricity Commission mark II was as much born out of a political recognition or perhaps fear that the market alone might fail to provide enough renewable energy to offset the looming demise of brown coal. As it turned out, the idea, as expressed by Andrews during the campaign, of taking profits back from greedy, price-gouging power companies also turned out to be strong politics. Andrews announcement was relatively simple. The government will hold a controlling interest in renewable energy projects, owned by every Victorian to benefit every Victorian, generating 4 gigawatts of power to offset the closure of Loy Yang A. Initially, there will be a taxpayer-funded investment of $1 billion, with the remaining cash to come from like-minded entities such as industry superannuation funds which, according to Andrews, will be focused on a fair deal for Victorians, not just profits. Profits earned by the government will be invested back into the network as part of a 10-year plan to drive down power prices and reach the states ambitious emissions reduction targets. Weve not excluded anything Great politics it might be, but the announcement left a string of unanswered questions: will the new SEC, unlike the old one, be run at arms length from the government, with an independent board? Will it compete with other electricity sellers in the retail space to drive down prices? Or will it compete with wholesale providers of renewable electricity and make it less attractive for them to invest (the so-called crowding out question)? How much will it ultimately cost? How much further might the idea be taken? What might those like-minded superannuation funds, which have a legal obligation to invest in their members financial interests, be offered as an incentive to chip in? Above all, is the SEC really being revived? Or is this just a huge branding exercise? Im struggling to see what market failure it is addressing. Alison Reeve, deputy director energy and climate program, Grattan Institute Its not going to be the old SEC, Energy Minister Lily DAmbrosio told The Age this week. It will be a new, modern SEC. Our energy system has been privatised for a long time ... Big things were promised for ordinary Victorian families and businesses, and the evidence is clear ... it failed to deliver. After re-establishing the SEC as a new entity in the Latrobe Valley, DAmbrosio says a first priority will be building the 4 gigawatts of new renewable energy. According to the government, this will help add $9.5 billion to the state economy and help create 59,000 jobs by 2035 in solar, wind and emerging energy industries. Not ruling anything out: Victorian Energy Minister Lily DAmbrosio. Credit: Oscar Colman The government isnt ruling out the idea that the SEC could also play a role retailing electricity. Just like the good old days, Victorian consumers could once again have the option of signing up for government-supplied power. So well certainly have more to say about what the model will be, but weve not excluded anything from what the SEC could certainly do into the future, and that includes retailing, DAmbrosio says. The new entity will almost certainly be run as a state-owned corporation, controlled by an independent board that will include industry experts operating at arms length from the government. This week SEC mark II was officially declared a reorganising body under the State-Owned Enterprise Act. That means it now is more than a mere shell and technically has the power to make its own decisions as a publicly owned legal entity. The government is also promising a special SEC expert panel, to provide advice on the best model, to be chaired by John Bradley, secretary of the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action. In line with common practice for state-owned enterprises, one share in the SEC will be held by the treasurer, with a second share to be held by the premier, on behalf of the public. A small player But exactly how it will drive down prices is still being thrashed out. DAmbrosio said increasing the supply of renewable energy would, as a simple economic proposition, place downward pressure on prices because they are cheaper to build than fossil-fired power stations and the inputs are free. One of DAmbrosios key contentions is that energy companies have deliberately failed to reinvest in new generation capacity: Keeping energy supply on the shorter side means keeping profits high, DAmbrosio said. High profits come from high prices. Bruce Mountain, director of the Victoria Energy Policy Centre at Victoria University, said the retailing of electricity was absolutely on the agenda, suggesting that to drive down prices the Government would need to do this. One of the big promises was lower prices for customers, and simply selling your production on the wholesale market is no guarantee customers will get the gains, he said. But Alison Reeve, deputy director of the energy and climate program at the Grattan Institute, said she struggled to see what the advantage would be for consumers if the government became a direct retailer, given the SEC would be a relatively small player under the governments proposal. Im struggling to see what market failure it is addressing, she said. If Labor is building 4.5 gigawatts of capacity its still a very small player compared to the large generators like AGL and Origin. Nor is there any guarantee that government investment would necessarily drive down prices, particularly if the SEC is used as a source of government revenue, in a similar way that the government has used its water monopoly in Victoria to extra profits in the form of dividends. David Havyatt, an energy expert from the University of Wollongong, argues government investment in renewable energy generation probably wont increase electricity generation overall. On the contrary, he argues, a more likely scenario is that it reduces it by displacing private-sector investment. Havyatt, who contributed to the recent book On the Grid: Australian Electricity in Transition, also warns it is unlikely that private-sector power companies will be competing with the government-owned SEC on a level (or competitively neutral) playing field, given the government doesnt pay tax and has other advantages, such as lower borrowing costs. Indeed, the Andrews governments own competitive neutrality policy forces publicly owned entities to at least attempt to offset their inherent advantages unless there are clear public interest reasons for not doing so. Whether there are public interest reasons for allowing the new SEC to exercise its competitive clout is unclear. This raises the possibility of an interesting catch-22, according to Havyatt. If the government investment isnt competitively neutral, then it will drive other investment from the market. Yet if it is, then it raises the question of why the government investment is needed in the first place. The real problem There is a view among energy experts that Victorias problems have more to do with an urgent need to upgrade the electricity grid to allow the system to cope with a dramatic increase in intermittent wind and solar energy. The problem, as many experts see it, is not a lack of potential investment by new power generators, it is instead a reluctance to invest if the grid is unable to handle the new dispatchable energy. Transmission is the key issue. Credit: Joe Armao The market operator recently told The Age that renewables with backup firming generation from batteries and pumped hydro would be required to replace retiring coal, meet emissions targets and keep essential electricity secure, reliable and affordable. But such investments, including the SEC, will only be enabled by new transmission lines across the east coast grid. Both the state and federal government are moving ahead with upgrades to the grid. But will they happen soon enough? AEMO has, for example, called for the construction of about 10,000 kilometres of transmission lines to better dispatch solar and wind energy to where it is needed. Loading It also says the equivalent of 40 large synchronous condensers, which act in a similar way to the turbines of coal-fired power stations, will be needed to stabilise the flow of energy from intermittent renewable sources. It also wants a major upgrade of outdated computer systems that monitor and control the flow of power and an extraordinary 30-fold increase in battery and hydro storage over the next 25 years. More than 3800 Australians died with COVID-19 in aged-care facilities over the past 12 months, quadrupling the number during the first two years of the pandemic, even though the overall death rate is now far lower. A federal review of health data over recent months identified a previously unreported 232 deaths in 2022, but the federal government is declining to specify the months in which they occurred. While the fatality rate is lower, far more Australians are dying from COVID-19 in aged-care homes now than during the first two years of the pandemic. Credit: Shutterstock The change in reporting was made on the eve of the release of figures that would have revealed more deaths had occurred in aged care in the eight months under Labor than during the first two years of the pandemic under the previous government. However, the 3.3 per cent fatality rate in aged care homes over the past year is much improved compared to the first 20 months of the pandemic when 23.4 per cent of residents with COVID-19 were dying from the virus. I often wonder why minister Mark Butler and the government wont take action such as increase Medicare rebates conditional on the outcome of a detailed and yes, no doubt complex, review of medical funding to improve the overall system ( Voters call for increase in Medicare rebate , January 29). It seems 82 per cent of voters want this. Compare this to spending billions on potentially obsolete military hardware. If you want to fight a war its preferable to have a healthy population. Mark Tietje, Redfern Parnell Palme McGuinness is right to suggest that the Voice has to be sold as a means of addressing First Nations needs ( Indigenous Voice would fix something that is truly broken , January 29). Only then will the carping calls by Dutton, Thorpe etc for details be seen as beside the point. Andrew Macintosh, Cromer Uppity business executives in Sydney want employees to return to the CBD ( Time to get back to the office , January 29). The reasons for this so-called restoration of the mojo of CBD range from in-person collaboration and training to social activity. My daily commute is two hours by public transport and I also happen to know others who travel more. Driving commuters have their challenges such as traffic congestion, fuel costs and tolls.You cannot say that everyone will be happy to oblige for 30 years of working life. The decentralisation process in Sydney is unfolding at sluggish pace and travelling to the city is still the norm for most suburban residents. The last three years have provided some relief to many of those commute-ravaged residents as flexible workplace arrangements became fashionable. Embracing those arrangements is the way forward instead of threatening employees with offshoring. I also hope that regional hubs such as the one being developed in Parramatta will accelerate job growth outside of the CBD. Devendra Damle, Doonside Im assuming that the three quarters of Australians calling for an increase in the Medicare rebate, also accept that such an increase must be funded by a corresponding increase in the Medicare levy. But rather than just raise the levy for existing taxpayers, wouldnt it be a good idea for the government to ask the more than two million financially secure over sixty-fives, who pay no income tax and no Medicare levy under the present tax structure, to contribute something towards the cost of the health and medical services they make such liberal use of? Col Nicholson, Hawks Nest Airbnb renters make meal of place Kerri Sackville has had a lot to say about the joys and horrors of renting Airbnb (Always read the reviews, January 29). But hosting an Airbnb is no picnic either. I own a modest family beach house in Port Stephens which is managed by a local agent as a holiday rental and, as a retiree with little other personal income, I rely on the summer rentals to meet the myriad expenses involved. Renters paying a premium during the summer may be unaware that 25 per cent of what they pay goes to the booking platform and by the time cleaning fees, management fees, agents booking fees are also deducted, the amount that I get barely resembles what they paid, and profit is definitely not a thing. Nevertheless, their expectations are high, and I do my best to provide a comfortable experience, including providing guest notes, cooking oil, salt and pepper, tea, coffee, sugar, linen/towels and bedsheets where most other bookings require additional linen hire. Most guests are likewise respectful of my property, but my own horror stories include the people who amused themselves by throwing pizza slices at the ceiling and the light-fingered guest that after a chilly Easter booking decided that they liked the look of my winter doona. To be fair, they also leave things like candles, some even fix stuff and leave positive reviews. Holiday house owners also support a whole local army of cleaners, mowers, agents, pest services and all manner of fix-it types. Jennifer Indsto, Pennant Hills Lift argument makes no sense While I am not opposed to an aesthetically designed, discreet lift beside McElhone stairs, councillor Lyndon Gannons argument that its necessary for the elderly and families with kids makes little sense (Catch a bus instead: Locals decry accessibility lift planned at historic stairway, January 29). He says it will make it easier for them to walk all the way from Kings Cross through Woolloomooloo and past the Art Gallery to the CBD. But if they can manage that, they can likely walk an extra few hundred metres down Wylde Street, Potts Point and onto Cowper Wharf Road, without having to negotiate a single step. Ross Duncan, Potts Point NSW Labor will stand by federal government legal action that could nullify Scott Morrisons halting of the controversial PEP11 gas field project, despite its previous opposition. The NSW Coalition government, the Greens and a group of climate-focused independent candidates at next months state election have all criticised Prime Minister Anthony Albaneses decision as having the potential to reopen the project, with one teal candidate threatening not to assist Labor to form a minority government if required. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has defended his call to revisit the PEP11 gas field decision. Credit: Rhett Wyman Morrison rejected a two-year extension of the controversial gas exploration licence, which covers 4500 square kilometres of ocean off the coast of Sydney and the Central Coast, in 2021, resulting in legal action by gas companies Asset Energy and Bounty Oil & Gas. However, on Friday it was revealed that the federal government and the gas companies had applied to the Federal Court for consent orders to end the legal action which, if granted, would nullify that decision. A Lewisham townhouse sold for $1.44 million at auction on Saturday to inner west buyers who felt they got good value, despite having to go over their budget. The three-bedroom home at 3/283 New Canterbury Road was guided at $1.1 million, which was described as an affordable townhouse bracket in the listing. The property drew a crowd of about 50 and a dozen registered buyers on the first proper auction weekend in 2023. The successful buyer Brian Baker was among a packed crowd for the Lewisham auction. Credit: Rhett Wyman It was one of 337 homes scheduled to go under the hammer in Sydney on Saturday. By evening, Domain Group recorded a preliminary auction clearance rate of 68.4 per cent from 215 reported results, while 38 auctions were withdrawn. Withdrawn auctions are counted as unsold properties when calculating the clearance rate. Bidding was quick to start and bang-on the price guide. It was just as quick to rise as dozens of bids were placed from seven buyers who participated in the auction. The hammer was close to falling a number of times before new bidders entered the contest. Yuriy Shchuklin, logistics market expert, advisor to the Ukrzaliznytsya Head of Board For the first time, Kyiv is hosting the Ukraine-EU summit while Ukraine is already in the official status of a candidate country, and expects positive conclusions from the European Commissions delegation about the preparatory work done, as well as the specific timetable for the start of official talks on the EU membership. The optimistic vision of the Eurointegration process was made public by the Prime Minister, Denys Shmyhal: This year, Ukraine will be ready to start official negotiations on accession to the EU, and Ukraine will be fully prepared to join the EU after two years. However, the experience of processes of such a level proves that the other side will inevitably lower the discussion agenda down from the height of our expectations to the specific level of our preparedness. For instance, the question may arise whether we are moving towards Eurointegration at the level of infrastructure, whether the present-day leaders of the government, as well as countries, allow for radical changes of the management technology and the level of access for economic agents to the railway infrastructure, as the EU will demand before the official membership of Ukraine is approved? In this respect, our huge hopes for the accelerated membership may be hurt by the recognition by the European side of our unpreparedness which will be proven by the failure, on the Ukrainian side, to fulfill the homework specified by the 2014 Association Agreement with the EU. Then, Ukraine undertook to implement, within 8 years (until 1 November 2022), clauses of 12 EU Directives and Regulations into the national legislation, thus creating an open and competitive market of railway logistics. The key component of the European logistics space, introduced in the EU countries since 1991, is the removal of factors of natural monopoly of state-owned shippers. The European directives provide for the provision of equal and non-discriminatory access to the resources of strategic infrastructure of railways for all users within the limits of their competence, irrespective of the form of ownership. This reform is obligatory for the EU membership and, taking into account the volume of preparatory work, changes in legislation, technology of shipment, Ukraine got eight years for fulfilling this part of the obligations within the framework of the Association Agreement It was stipulated that over this time Ukraine would introduce the following: The state-owned Ukrzaliznytsya shipper will retain only the strategic infrastructure without which shipping of cargo is impossible; The state will provide for equal and non-discriminatory access for all users to the resources of strategic infrastructure, within the limits of their competence, irrespective of forms of ownership, including access to information resources; Managing shipping with the use of strategic infrastructure will be done on the basis of both long-term and urgent contracts (orders) of participants in shipping, taking into account the state of strategic infrastructure objects. However, the Draft Law No.1196-1 On the Railway Transportation of Ukraine, submitted during the epoch of the parliamentary turboregime, had not reached the session hall and had quietly died while being agreed in the parliamentary committees. Most probably, this had happened because this novelty affected the interests of a number of influential stakeholders. Among them are the state-owned operator of railway shipping, Ukrzaliznytsya; those market participants who are satisfied with the current monopoly status of Ukrzaliznytsya; and officials who would not be able to monetize their personal interests within the open electronic system with equal access. The fact that the Eurointegration track has fallen out of the agenda of the infrastructure chapter of the current Cabinet of Ministers headed by Denys Shmyhal, was proven by the Ukrzaliznytsyas plans for cargo shipments, made public by the end of 2022. The announcement among the iron changes of the new monopolist function of forwarding cargo is an eloquent proof that the implementation of Eurodirectives is not planned at all while there is movement in the opposite direction. Ukraine amazes the world, and one of the symbols of our resilience and inventiveness during the war is Ukrzaliznytsya. This, however does not mean that if we, Ukrainians, are so courageous and Ukrzaliznytsya is so iron-strong and heroic we will be allowed to not fulfill the requirements of the directives fulfilled by all railways of the EU countries. Due to our healthy adventurism and entrepreneurship we demonstrate to all Europeans how we find ways out of the emergency situation. But we are at the stage now when they expect from us not the adventurism and inventiveness in avoiding obligations but adequate behavior and responsibility in adhering to obligations. If the implementation of Eurodirectives is remembered now and put on the agenda, there will also emerge the issue of preparedness of the legislative foundation, technological means, digital infrastructure to the format of work that Europe demands from us. Ukraines membership in the EU supposes that our railways will be used by shippers with their locomotives, that there will be an equal access to the infrastructure, not the access as seen by the commerce department of Ukrzaliznytsya and by those who now profit from this outdated technology. If, for instance, at the demand of European partners, the Draft Law On the Railway Transportation is urgently put to consideration and approved in the turboregime this is not going to solve the problem. This is because the current legislative basis and the automated traffic regulation system of Ukrzalznytsya, the best in Europe and the CIS, does not allow for the presence of different shippers and of different owners of railway cars. Everything that is happening in railway shipping managed by Ukrzaliznytsy will stop because it will be torn apart with different pieces having no interaction. No one is getting ready for this. In addition, when the Law is adopted, everyone will see that the current model of interaction between cargo owners and shippers does not fit this Law! The European concept of railway shipping is different from the current Ukrainian concept in that logistics are not dictated by the interests of a monopoly shipper but stipulated by the interest of cargo owners who commission and pay for the service of shipping. It is the manufacturer who finances the entire chain of services. Ports, forwarders, traders all live because the manufacturer has produced goods and goes to the market with them. At the moment, we dont have a system which would provide for interaction with them after the law is adopted. The current shipping technology and the fitting automated system were built over 15 years. This is an enormous work, impossible to be done within short time. The main thing, however, is that in order to start making a new system today, it is necessary to understand which technology will be in place tomorrow. What is the mission of railway transport in the context of the post-war rebuilding and of Ukraines European integration? The problem is that the Cabinet of Ministers, as a shareholder of the state-owned shipper, when hiring for a year or eighteen months a new TOP manager for Ukrzaliznytsya, does not set a task for the companys head concerning the companys mission. It is because of this that the horizon of planning of the Ukrzaliznytsya managers is short-term and does not allow for system changes on the agenda, this is why short-term financial results come to the fore. There are questions concerning the competence of the Ukrzaliznytsya functionaries and apprehension that their mentality wont allow them to imagine the very possibility of free competition without the monopoly leverage of the state-owned shipper. This is why there are doubts concerning their initiative in creating the future for Ukrzaliznytsya where it is not the monopolist but one of the many shippers who compete for cargo among them all. The current legislative basis and the shipping technology of Ukrzaliznytsya do not correspond to the announced course of Ukraine in the direction of the EU and are incapable of solving the tasks of post-war restoration of Ukraines economy. If the desire to swiftly join the EU is a real aim and not an emotion, the Cabinet of Ministers must swiftly put on the agenda the issue of the mission of the railway transport of Ukraine and the role of the state-owned Ukrzaliznytsya shipper within the future context of economic relations where the post-war renewal and European integration of Ukraine come to the fore. Ukrainians regard the Eurointegration as a means of getting something but it should be seen also in its different dimension, as a means of giving something. The senses of European directives on equal access correspond to the vision of Ukrainian exporters, manufacturers who have, with their actions, confirmed their preparedness to work along European criteria and principles (and with European prices, too). Ukraine possesses developments in the sphere of information technologies to synchronize interaction of Ukrainian agrarians and shippers with European shippers, railways, and ports in organizing exports. This system of throughout responsible planning of railway shipments will allow to take the EU railway logistics to a new level of throughout business processes and may become Ukraines weighty contribution to the creation of the joint European logistics infrastructure and be our gratitude to European partners for their current support. The latest sociological surveys results demonstrate the unseen-before unity of Ukrainians in relation to the EU. Almost 90 percent are sure that Ukraine will become an EU member in ten years, while 65 percent are prepared to suffer material hardship during nearest years for the sake of this goal. It would be desirable to find understanding of the countrys top officials that each month of further existence of outdated technologies of railway shipping makes Ukraines chance of becoming an EU member farther, undermines the European partners belief in our capacity to root out corruption, and deepens doubts that Ukraine does deserve the credit of trust that we got due to resilience and courage of our warriors. Miami: Only a few weeks after his supporters stormed the seat of his countrys government, former Brazilian president Jair Bolsonaro expressed bafflement at how he could have lost Octobers election, then smiled silently as a crowd of supporters cried, Fraud! He did not directly address the January 8 assault on the buildings housing Brazils Congress and Supreme Court during his appearance in Miami before a conservative group tied to former US President Donald Trump. Brazils right wing former President Jair Bolsonaro, right, speaks alongside Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk, at a TPUSA event at Trump National Doral, Miami. Credit: AP Bolsonaro had mimicked Trumps strategy during his own 2020 reelection campaign, for months sowing doubts about the reliability of Brazils voting machines and then filing a petition to annul millions of votes. He is now under investigation for allegedly inciting the uprising. Like Trump, Bolsonaro has not conceded the election, though unlike the former US president he also has never explicitly said he lost due to fraud. A serious accident in the main network in Odesa region, which occurred due to the failure of equipment repeatedly restored after Russian attacks, threatens with longer restrictions on the power supply to Odesa and nearby areas, NPC Ukrenergo has reported. "Unfortunately, the scale of the accident is quite significant, therefore, this time the power supply restrictions will be longer. It is not yet possible to determine a specific time when it will be fully restored," Ukrenergo said on its Telegram channel reported on Saturday morning. The company said that, together with Odesa Regional Military Administration and regional energy authorities, Ukrenergo specialists are developing backup power supply schemes for Odesa and nearby areas. "Repair teams of Ukrenergo and regional power suppliers are working around the clock to eliminate the consequences and resume power supply," the company said. Ukrenergo said that on Saturday morning at one of the high-voltage substations that power the city of Odesa, an autotransformer, restored after being damaged during Russian attacks, failed. "Power limits are introduced in the city and several districts of the region adjacent to Odesa, since it is impossible to supply electricity to consumers in full. In Odesa, emergency outages applied. In most other districts of the region, there are no obstacles to the supply of electricity to consumers," Ukrenergo said, describing the situation. The company also said that during the last few missile attacks, the enemy deliberately targeted the high-voltage infrastructure of Odesa region, trying to black out it. As a result, all high-voltage substations in the region have been heavily damaged. "Ukrenergo's repair teams resumed the functionality of repeatedly damaged equipment that worked according to backup schemes. Therefore, network restrictions were in effect for the city and some districts of Odesa region. This mode of operation, to which power engineers are forced to switch due to shelling, led to the failure of repeatedly damaged equipment," the company said. As reported, due to accidents in the main network, Odesa and part of the districts of the region remain cut off from the electricity supply. Prior to this, from the day of the last enemy attack on January 26, there were emergency power outages in Odesa region, since the possibility of its supply was limited. During the day, the Ukrainian troops liquidated 720 people of the aggressor army, 3 tanks, 6 armored combat vehicles, 4 UAVs, the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine has reported. "The total combat losses of the enemy since February 24, 2022 as of February 4, 2023 approximately amounted to personnel about 130,590 (720 more) people liquidated, tanks 3,218 (3 more) units, armored combat vehicles 6,394 (6 more) units, artillery systems 2,220 (5 more) units; 1956 (4 more), cruise missiles - 796 (0), ships/boats - 18 (0) units, automotive equipment and tankers 5,081 (13 more) units, special equipment 203 (1 more)," the General Staff said in a post on Facebook. The data are being clarified. Back in 2017, Springfield, Missouri, native Jordan Harper made his debut as a novelist with a thriller titled She Rides Shotgun. The Post-Dispatch review (written by me) gave it a thumbs-up and urged Harper to stay behind the keyboard. He did, now giving us Everybody Knows. The New York Times just gave it a thumbs-up. But at the Post-Dispatch, this reviewers thumbs move between up and down up on the characters, kind of down on the complicated plot. Harper gives the starring roles to two people: Mae Pruett, who works as a publicist tasked with keeping bad news about her firms clients out of the papers and off the TV newscasts. Chris Tamburro, once a deputy in the Los Angeles Sheriffs Department and now a fist a tough guy for hire. The two once had a flingette. But that was long ago, at about the time Pruett was recruited by Mitnick & Associates, a black-bag public relations outfit in Los Angeles. Heres the spiel she got: "Black-bag PR is a rush. We dont get the good news out we keep the bad news in. Its like James Bond, Hollywood sleaze edition. Youll go places nobody else in the world gets to go. Youll know things that nobody else in the world will know. Youll do ugly things for ugly people but, hey, the pay is commensurate. Youll get a peek behind the curtain. It will scare you. But it will buzz you, too. Tamburro comes across as a mixed bag. Early on, author Harper tags along with Tamburro as he waits in the apartment of a man Tamburro has been hired to hurt: He tosses the apartment to kill time. He searches it the way they taught him in the academy marking a grid in mind, working top to bottom. Cop habits die hard. He finds a salad of pills in a sandwich baggie. He finds an 8-ball of fish-scale cocaine hidden in the couch. He finds a mirror frosted with coke residue. He finds sex toys and coconut oil in the nightstand. He finds a stack of hundred-dollar bills in a suit pocket in the closet. He pockets the cash, the coke, and the pills. Cop habits die hard. That complicated plot of Everybody Knows starts grinding with the seemingly random murder of a colleague of Pruett a man with a conscience. Then it takes a sharp turn into a hookup with a 14-year-old girl impregnated by a big-name Hollywood executive. Pruett and Tambarro team up again, battling bloody violence on the outside and wrestling with their emotional attachment on the inside. Harper tells much of the story through the dialogue and thoughts of his characters. Some readers may be put off by the obscenity that spews out even from that pregnant 14-year-old. Harper also uses insider slang. For example, he describes some advantages of life as a cop: Food on the arm and badge bunnies lurking at cop bars. That translates to free food and willing women. And like a few other thriller writers living in Los Angeles, Harper insists on giving readers linguistic maps of the routes his characters drive. A sample: She takes Sunset over to Fountain, through Silver Lake, past the good vegan self-serve place, past the Trader Joes where the cops shot that cashier, to the Hyperion Bridge, passing over the 5, the Verdugo Mountains smog-blurred to the north. She glances down to the LA River, this wide concrete canal with a broad, shallow current running through it. In the end, things finally get wrapped up, more or less. But Harper succeeds in stripping Los Angeles of its Hollywood-style glamour. His tale makes humdrum flyover St. Louis seem snug and cozy. Harry Levins of Manchester retired in 2007 as senior writer of the Post-Dispatch. Jordan Harper When 6 p.m. Feb. 8 Where Left Bank Books 399 North Euclid Avenue How much Free More info 314-367-6731; left-bank.com The 15-story apartment building at 701 Westgate Avenue, just north of University Citys Delmar Loop, exists because of William S. Seltzer. He was born in 1903. His father was a tailor. Despite being Jewish, the family lived in Kerry Patch, a mostly Irish neighborhood on the near north side. Seltzer became successful in the real-estate business. He recognized the need for subsidized housing for elderly people. He spearheaded the effort to provide it. The building on Westgate was the result. The Seltzer Building, it was called. When it opened its doors in 1970, the Globe-Democrat wrote that Seltzer had helped lift hundreds of the elderly into clean, bright, affordable housing. Seltzer died in October 1984. He left behind a legacy of philanthropy, some of which continues even now. He started a fund for people who need cab rides to come to the synagogue, said Jeffrey Stiffman, a close friend of Selzers and now the rabbi emeritus of Congregation Share Emeth. Seltzers legacy on Westgate is more complicated. The building is in a state of general disrepair. With government help state and federal it was rehabbed in 2006 to provide subsidized housing for the disabled as well as the elderly. It was renamed Parkview Place Apartments. For many years, it had a fine reputation. There was a waiting list to get in, said Gregory Franzen. He is 56. He moved into the building in 2008. As a result of a diving accident when he was 16, he is a quadriplegic and requires a ventilator. He also needs skilled care to help with daily life. He graduated from the University of Missouri in Columbia with a degree in design. He lived in a special dorm and was in a state-funded vocational rehabilitation program. When he was unable to find work after graduation, he started his own drafting and design business, but it did not work out. He had been living with his parents before he moved to Westgate. It was a worrisome time. His parents were getting older. Independent living seemed a challenge. He needed to get in a program for medically fragile adults. That does not seem like it should have been difficult, but Franzen assured me that things are always more complicated than one would think. Government programs can be difficult to navigate. Almost a year after he applied, he was certified as a medically fragile adult. And almost immediately, he got a coveted spot at the building on Westgate. It was a miracle, Franzen said. He is a devout Christian. He told me his faith is what got him through the very tough times after his accident. He gives witness to people who dont necessarily share his precise faith. While in Columbia, he had long conversations with Jewish people and Chinese people. Those heartfelt conversations are cherished memories of college. What happened when Franzen arrived at Westgate? A Jewish man opened the door for him. He immediately saw a notice on the billboard in Chinese. I felt led by the Lord to be there, he said. So that is how one tenant found his way to the building. Others I spoke with did not want to be identified in this story. They prefer to complain anonymously. And who can blame them? Conditions are not good, but it is still home. For old people and people with disabilities, and especially people who need subsidized housing, moving is a frightening prospect. These other people directed me to Franzen. He has already moved. He left in January. My family said I should get out, he told me. They said the place has become a dump. His family is paying for his new apartment on Brentwood Boulevard. Things were going downhill for a while in the building, Franzen said, but problems escalated in December 2021 when a water main broke and the boiler went out. University City condemned the building until water was restored about a month later. The residents were sent to hotels, and when they returned, they were issued space heaters. More than a year later, the new heating system is not yet up and running. Most of the complaints are much more mundane. The elevators break down. Electrical outlets dont always work. The trash chutes get jammed. If you have ever worked or lived in an old building, you know how it is. Things break down. Parts arent always readily available. Things that are broken tend to stay broken. One woman complained to the Better Business Bureau last September. She said water had been leaking from her ceiling for weeks and she had to put towels and pots under the leak. We do not have a manager. I dont know who to ask for help. There is no handyman or anyone working in the building. Im an elderly woman living alone. Help! Actually, there is a manager, but she is not always there. I stopped in to visit last week, and there were construction workers in her office. They said they didnt have a number for her. University City is aware of the problems. John Wagner, director of planning, is in charge of the inspectors. He told me that Fairway Management, which manages the property for JES Holdings, is generally responsive. Supply-chain issues have caused the delay in getting a new heating system installed, but the new one should be online any day, and will be a big improvement, he said. We try to work with them, Wagner said. The alternative would be to levy heavy fines on them, but what would that accomplish? What if they shut down? That would devastate the tenants with whom I have spoken. They dont want to have to move. They recall the old days fondly. They want to turn the clock back to the days before deferred maintenance. For instance, inspectors noted in November that the foyer and common areas on the first floor have been in disrepair since the water main break of December 2021. Two months ago, pipes burst and caused another flood. The residents wonder, and worry, that the deferred maintenance is a sign that the building will be sold. The shadow of Washington University looms. I spoke with the regional manager of Fairway on Tuesday. She asked me to mail her my questions. I did. I also explained that I used to work in an old building and I live in an old house. I understand problems with old things. Wednesday evening, my email from the previous day bounced back to me. The recipient server did not accept our request to connect, it said. I did not take offense. My computer is old. Maybe hers is, too. I had better luck with Washington University. A spokeswoman responded to an email. The university has no plans to purchase 701 Westgate, she wrote. Apparently, there is no longer a waiting list for the apartments. According to University City, 132 of the 156 units are occupied. Fairway Management is owned by JES Holdings. Their website says, We develop, build, manage and invest in quality housing where our families would be proud to live. That sounds like something William Seltzer might have said. ST. LOUIS A civilian oversight board created to keep an eye on the citys jail says the corrections commissioner is blocking full access to the detention center, records, staff and inmates theyre supposed to monitor. City emails show that requests from the Detention Facility Review Board to review jail use-of-force reports were met with an effort by Corrections Commissioner Jennifer Clemons-Abdullah to circumvent the states public records Sunshine Law and keep the documents secret. The daily reports will include the City Counselor Office to ensure the information that is being shared is at the best interest of the City and not sunshine-able as it will be attorney-client privilege, she wrote in a Jan. 23 email to Matthew Brummund, head of the citys Division of Civilian Oversight, under which the review board operates. Clemons-Abdullah followed four minutes later with a second email saying she would release the reports if the city counselor approved it. No one from the city, including Brummund or Clemons-Abdullah, would comment on the status of the records request or board members specific concerns. Government transparency attorney Mark Pedroli called the first email a smoking gun and said many city governments, not just St. Louis, try to email city counselors in order to avoid public scrutiny. And while some specific law enforcement and personnel records may not be public, just because you CC the city counselor person wouldnt make it non-disclosable, said Jean Maneke, an attorney with the Missouri Press Association and Sunshine Law expert. If somebody CCs the city counselor person and says Were having an office party and you might need to know thats not going to close a record, Maneke said. This isnt the only controversy over access to use-of-force reports, which the city released monthly until late 2021, the Post-Dispatch reported in January. St. Louis faces a lawsuit alleging it did not maintain any monthly use-of-force reports for 2022, and that the city regularly destroys videos of use-of-force incidents. The Detention Facility Review Board was signed into law in August as a response to the deaths of at least six people in the citys jail last year. Days later, police unions sued the city and mayor to halt the jail board and the similar civilian police oversight board. The police board remains on hold, but the jail board is allowed to meet and investigate. Clemons-Abdullah has recently questioned the suitability of two current members, Barbara Baker and Mike Milton, to sit on the board because of their work with criminal justice nonprofits that serve the jails population. In a November email to Brummund, Clemons-Abdullah cited a city ordinance that doesnt allow anyone who conducts business in the corrections field to hold a board position. Others on the nine-member board include a former paralegal in the St. Louis Circuit Attorneys Office, the citys former health director, activists, and some in the legal field. The same qualifications that put me on this board are the same reasons they want me out isnt that something? said Baker. She and Milton were appointed by St. Louis Mayor Tishaura Jones. The boards rules state the only way to remove a member is by a vote. The city counselor has not issued a public opinion on Baker and Miltons eligibility. We are looking into possible legislative solutions to clarify any outstanding questions about qualifications, said Nick Desideri, the mayors communications director. The oversight board was billed as a way to build public trust in the jails, but members are concerned theyre not getting a full picture of what is happening inside the detention center. About half of the board members have toured the jail, and at a January meeting some called the tour superficial because they werent able to access the housing unit or talk with inmates, which they argue is a crucial part of their job. One board member, Thomas Lawson, called the tour fluff and a waste of time. He said hes previously toured jails in St. Charles, Jefferson City and Potosi and spoken with inmates. But at the City Justice Center, board members were told nothing, they saw nothing, they did nothing, he said. Ominous signs are growing about the potential for direct military conflict between the United States and China. Its not every day when a top military commander predicts in a memo that military confrontation could happen by 2025 with Beijing. But thats exactly what Gen. Michael A. Minihan warned a few days ago. Minihan heads the U.S. Air Mobility Command headquartered at Scott Air Force Base, which helps remind folks in this region that, even though China is way over there, any talk of war can have major reverberations right here in the Midwest. Some of the nations most crucial war-fighting forces are based near St. Louis. Scott is the command base for air logistics and refueling aircraft that would rapidly deploy in the advent of war. The National Geospatial-Intelligence Agencys western headquarters is in the heart of St. Louis. And Whiteman Air Force Base is headquarters of the 509th Bomb Wing, home to the nations B-2 stealth-bomber fleet and the same bomb wing responsible for the U.S. atomic attacks on Hiroshima and Nagasaki that ended the war with Japan in World War II. War with China has been and probably remains an extremely remote possibility. But the threat looms ever larger, particularly after a Chinese intelligence balloon was discovered maneuvering in the skies above the northern United States. Secretary of State Antony Blinken postponed a visit to Beijing because of it. Tensions have escalated with China ever since its construction of artificial islands in the South China Sea and subsequent construction of naval bases. China then began interfering with international shipping, claiming encroachment on sovereign Chinese territory. New tensions are focused on Chinas increasingly bold threats to take military action against Taiwan. The Biden administration is boosting military aid to Taiwan and forging tighter military ties with Japan and other Asian Pacific nations. The Philippines last week reached an agreement to restore the U.S. military presence there. Against that backdrop, the Feb. 1 memo from Minihan takes on far more significance. Referring to Chinese Communist Party leader Xi Jinping, Minihan wrote: I hope I am wrong. My gut tells me we will fight in 2025. Xi secured his third term and set his war council in October 2022. Minihan outlined specific schedules for his command staff to ramp up preparations in coming months, warning against complacency. Go faster. Drive readiness, integration, and agility for ourselves and the Joint Force to deter, and if required, defeat China. The Pentagon distanced itself from the memo, but all the other preparations and Chinas balloon episode speak to a scenario belying any talk of calm and cordial diplomacy. Unless cooler heads prevail, the threat of a direct superpower confrontation is looming closer to reality, meaning this region could well find itself right in the thick of it. When Ukraine finally got its Western supporters to send tanks, Ukrainians were encouraged. The tanks sought were the German Leopard 2 and the American M1. Both tanks are roughly equal in performance but Leopards are more numerous in Europe and can be delivered quickly by European NATO. The Americans are far away and generally ignore that fact the closer you are to Russia the more bad experiences you have had with Russia, the more sympathetic you are to the Ukrainian situation and their need for whatever weapons they believe will do them the most good. Its no secret that the M1 tanks have faced Russian tanks several times since the 1990s and confirmed the degree of superiority the M1 has over Russian tanks and anti-tank weapons. American also tend to believe that Russians are open to sincere negotiations and that East European attitudes towards Russia are often exaggerated. What this means is that while Leopard 2s are already arriving in Ukraine, the M1s wont arrive for months. This despite that there are already several hundred M1s in Europe. To Poland and other East Europe NATO allies, American attitudes often appear as mystifying as the Russian. An example of this is the Russian attitudes and reactions towards M1s and Leopards. Early on the Americans saw sending M1s to Ukraine as a counterproductive move because the Russian might escalate or even resort to nuclear weapons. The Americans disregarded Ukrainians and east European pointing out that Russia had already escalated and had nothing left to escalate with except empty threats of retaliation. An example of this came from Russia in response to the news that Leopards and M1s were on the way. Russia pointed out that M1s would be destroyed in Ukraine by a new Russian anti-tank weapon, the three-ton Marker UGV (Unmanned Ground Vehicle). Russia claims that Marker contains revolutionary mobility and target detection and identification software and sensors. Marker has been known about for at least six years, and was known to have been tested as an unmanned security system for a Russian spaceport (Cosmodrome). Marker was apparently able to reliably carry out the patrols and identify what it saw. These Markers were not armed, because the Russians were not yet confident that they had perfected a system that would ensure no accidental gun fire at the wrong targets. Now Russia claims that the Marker navigation and detection/identification sensors and software are operational and have an effective range of 14 kilometers. Marker is now supposed to be armed with an unidentified weapons system that will destroy M1s and Leopards. The reality of Russian UGV developments reveals a different situation. Russia has been trying to develop an effective military UGV since the 1990s. This has led to an impressive list of failures. The latest one is not Marker but a 2021 development. Russia ordered four prototypes of a new armored UGV design called Shturm (storm). This one is based on the widely used (by Russian troops) T-72B3 tank. This was part of a plan to organize heavy UGV companies which would contain up to ten vehicles, most of them UGVs, plus one or more similar vehicles manned by a crew of UGV operators and technicians to repair and maintain the unmanned vehicles. These UGVs would be armed and equipped for urban warfare. Weapons include short barrel 125mm and 152mm low velocity cannon as well as thermobaric (fuel air explosives) rockets and 30mm autocannon. All can be equipped with a dozer blade to remove debris blocking roads, or building rubble in general, to allow troops and manned combat vehicles to advance through a path cleared of obstacles as well as explosives in the form of mines, roadside bombs, explosive traps and explosive debris. Storm UGVs would replace manned engineer vehicles and small UGVs now used to deal with explosive obstacles. Even with the engineer vehicles and small UGVs, there are still casualties among the engineers and nearby UGV operators. Storm UGVs are considered an intermediate design that would be replaced with UGVs based on the new Armata tank/IFV chassis that is better protected but a lot more expensive. The T-72B3 is the most widely used, popular and affordable Russian tank. The Storm UGV is building on what was learned with earlier tank-like UGVs. Russia has not fixed all those problems but at least knows what needs work. The earlier vehicle was the 12-ton Uran-9 UGV. Two were sent to Syria in 2016 for combat testing. Uran-9 looks like a small tank and is equipped with remotely controlled 30mm and 7.62mm machine-guns as well as various guided missiles and unguided thermobaric rockets. The Uran-9s sent to Syria for combat experience did not get much of that because the remote-control system functioned poorly under battlefield conditions. The main problem was that the wireless remote-control system, while encrypted, had insufficient bandwidth (amount of data sent and received in real time) to handle what was required to remotely operate the sensors, the vehicle itself and its weapons. As designed and tested in rather less demanding conditions, the wireless data link was supposed to operate at up to 2,800 meters. The controllers were in an armored 6x6 truck, safely out of the way as is the heavy truck that transports the Uran-9 to the battlefield. In Syria, the command truck found it had to remain within 400 meters of the Uran 9 to maintain the datalink to any useful degree of bandwidth. Even then the bandwidth was often insufficient because of obstacles or other electronic devices operating nearby. This meant the operators could not get all the real-time data the sensors were capable of providing. The thermal and vidcam sensors were capable of spotting people or vehicles out to 6,000 meters in daylight and half of that at night. But because of the bandwidth problems, the sensors were only effective out to about 2,000 meters in daylight and half that at night. And that was only when the data link was working at all. One problem should have been caught in testing; the sensors were not stabilized. As a result, when the vehicle was moving the sensors and weapons were useless. Worse, when moving the data link was often lost because of equipment problems or new signal interference. The inability of the remote operator to see while the vehicle was moving often meant the Uran 9 hit obstacles a human operator would avoid. While tracked vehicles can travel over many obstacles, some of those obstacles (tree stumps, large chunks of rubble) put a lot of stress on the track-laying system tanks rely on for greater mobility than tires. Tanks often have the driver and commander checking out the terrain ahead as the vehicle advances. A well-trained tank crew will quickly spot obstacles and know when to remind the driver to slow down or evade dangerous obstacles. By comparison, the Uran 9 driver not only had less detailed and unreliable vision of the way ahead, but would have blurred vision while moving and have to deal with the unpredictable loss of control or vision. While the Uran 9 was armored against bullets and shell fragments, it was much more vulnerable to crippling damage because it was often driving half (or completely) blind across the cluttered battlefield. The Uran 9 spent a lot of time getting its running gear (tracks, suspension and wheels) repaired because of avoidable collisions. The two machine-guns in the Uran 9 turret were rarely fired because the vehicle had to stop, confirm that it had a good datalink and then scan the terrain ahead for any targets. When the 30mm autocannon fired the vibrations rendered the remotely controlled sensors useless until the firing stopped. That brought out another unpredictable flaw; response delays. The remote operator would transmit a command and it would often not be received and acted on in real time. There were often delays of several seconds or up to a minute. Sometimes the command would seemingly be ignored by the Uran 9. This made use of the other weapons on the Uran 9 impossible. There were four ATGMs (anti-tank guided missiles) mounted outside the turret that could hit targets 6,000 meters away. These missiles were laser guided and required some operator control. This could not be reliably supplied by remote control to the Uran 9. There were also a dozen unguided rockets and if you could get one of these to fire you didnt have to worry about guiding them. By the time details of Uran 9s battlefield performance got back to army headquarters in Russia, 22 of them had already been purchased and delivered. The manufacturer agreed to fix the flaws, or at least try. At this point the Russians could understand why the Americans had tried using remotely controlled combat vehicles in a combat zone but never followed through. The Americans also encountered data link reliability and bandwidth problems. Even operators of UAVs, which fly over the battlefield, encounter unreliable communications. Satellite datalinks are more reliable but they are not possible for smaller UAVs which rely on flight control software that automatically switches to circle or return home when there are communications problems. Starlink communications hardware enables Ukrainian UAVs with satellite links to be smaller than Russian ones. Russian UGV developers have a lot to learn about all this and now better appreciate why small UGVs used for EOD (Explosive Ordnance Disposal) often rely on a data cable rather than wireless control. Marker is supposed to deal with all these problems by operating autonomously and use more reliable sensors and software that can navigate a battlefield as effectively as an experienced human tank driver. Proof of these claims has yet to appear. Since 2016 Russian firms have developed several armed UGVs but only one of them entered service; the five-ton Uran-6, which was more successful than Uran 9 because it was based on the vast combat experience of numerous similar devices. Uran 6 saw action in Syria as an unarmed UGV for combat engineers dealing with landmines, roadside bombs and, most importantly, ensuring that a route was clear of explosives. To accomplish that Uran-6 was equipped with several accessories like a plow, flail (for setting off landmines) or robotic arms. The large size of the Uran-6 enabled it to survive nearby exploding mines or bombs and keep operating. The Uran-6 is powered by a 240 HP gasoline engine. Uran 6 could be remotely controlled from up to 1,500 meters away, but 800 meters was the most reliable distance. Use in Syria was apparently a validation effort because engineers were seen double checking for mines with more conventional mine detectors after the Uran-6 had declared the route clear. In late 2020 Uran 6 was used in Armenia for EOD work and was reported to be efficient and reliable. The year before the army had received twelve more of the latest Uran-6 models. There have been no export customers yet. Uran-6 has to compete in a mature market for EOD UGVs, a market the United States and Israel have dominated for two decades. Uran-6 is the largest EOD UGV and Russia hoped it would find a market niche in the EOD market after it proved successful in Syria. Armed UGVs are a more difficult sell but Russia is eager to avoid casualties among its own troops in Syria and armed UGVs are seen as a potential solution Armed UGVs are nothing new and one armed with explosives was used by the Germans during World War II. This was the gasoline-powered Goliath that was not successful. Currently, armed UGVs are most often produced by Israel and South Korea for patrolling long borders that are threatened by armed intruders. American manufacturers can and have armed their UGVs but find it more profitable to let the Israelis, South Koreans, Russians and Chinese have that market and sell UGVs that are far more capable that what the Russians have come up with. NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- KBRA assigns preliminary ratings to six classes of notes issued by LAD Auto Receivables Trust 2023-1 (LADAR 2023-1), an auto loan ABS transaction. LADAR 2023-1 will issue six classes of notes totaling $479.67 million. Credit enhancement on the notes is comprised of overcollateralization (OC), yield supplement overcollateralization (YSOC), subordination of junior note classes, a cash reserve account, and excess spread. This transaction is the third ABS securitization for Driveway Finance Corporation (DFC or the Company). DFCs first two ABS securitizations, LADAR 2022-1 and LADAR 2023-1, were both rated by KBRA. DFC was incorporated in Oregon in September 2012 under the name Southern Cascades Finance Corporation and rebranded as DFC on January 1, 2021. DFC is a wholly owned subsidiary of Lithia Financial Corporation, itself a wholly owned subsidiary of Lithia Motors, Inc. (Lithia). DFC has been originating and servicing loans in the automobile finance business since September 2012, initially targeting a subprime borrower base. Since May 2020 the Company has been a full credit spectrum lender, financing vehicles exclusively to Lithia customers through Lithias dealership network and e-commerce business channels. Lithia was founded as a single automotive dealership in 1946 in Ashland Oregon, was incorporated in 1968, and completed an initial public offering on the New York Stock Exchange in 1996, trading under the ticker LAD. Today, Lithia is a Fortune 500 company operating 292 dealership locations representing 48 brands across 28 states in the U.S. and three Canadian provinces. Lithia offers an array of products and services including new and used vehicles, insurance, automotive repair and maintenance, and automobile financing through its DFC subsidiary. KBRA applied its Auto Loan ABS Global Rating Methodology, as well as its Global Structured Finance Counterparty Methodology and ESG Global Rating Methodology as part of its analysis of the static pool data and the underlying Collateral pool and stressed the capital structure based upon its stress case cash flow assumptions. KBRA conducted onsite operational reviews of Lithia and DFC at its Tigard, OR location. Operative agreements and legal opinions will be reviewed prior to closing. To access ratings and relevant documents, click here. Click here to view the report. Related Publications Disclosures Further information on key credit considerations, sensitivity analyses that consider what factors can affect these credit ratings and how they could lead to an upgrade or a downgrade, and ESG factors (where they are a key driver behind the change to the credit rating or rating outlook) can be found in the full rating report referenced above. A description of all substantially material sources that were used to prepare the credit rating and information on the methodology(ies) (inclusive of any material models and sensitivity analyses of the relevant key rating assumptions, as applicable) used in determining the credit rating is available in the Information Disclosure Form(s) located here. Information on the meaning of each rating category can be located here. Further disclosures relating to this rating action are available in the Information Disclosure Form(s) referenced above. Additional information regarding KBRA policies, methodologies, rating scales and disclosures are available at www.kbra.com. About KBRA Kroll Bond Rating Agency, LLC (KBRA) is a full-service credit rating agency registered with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission as an NRSRO. Kroll Bond Rating Agency Europe Limited is registered as a CRA with the European Securities and Markets Authority. Kroll Bond Rating Agency UK Limited is registered as a CRA with the UK Financial Conduct Authority pursuant to the Temporary Registration Regime. In addition, KBRA is designated as a designated rating organization by the Ontario Securities Commission for issuers of asset-backed securities to file a short form prospectus or shelf prospectus. KBRA is also recognized by the National Association of Insurance Commissioners as a Credit Rating Provider. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230203005457/en/ Analytical Brockton Bowers, Analyst (Lead Analyst) +1 (646) 731-2418 [email protected] Virginia Zhao, Associate Director +1 (646) 731-3374 [email protected] Jacob Paulose, Associate Director +1 (646) 731-1269 [email protected] Eric Neglia, Senior Managing Director (Rating Committee Chair) +1 (646) 731-2456 [email protected] Business Development Ted Burbage, Managing Director +1 (646) 731-3325 [email protected] Source: Kroll Bond Rating Agency, LLC Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine Andriy Yermak announced the return of 116 Ukrainian troops from Russian captivity, including defenders of the city of Mariupol, Donetsk region. "Another big exchange of POWs. We managed to return 116 of our people, the defenders of Mariupol, Kherson partisans, snipers from the Bakhmut direction, and other heroes... Of these, two officers and 114 privates and sergeants," Yermak wrote on his Telegram channel on Saturday. According to him, 87 returned soldiers are from the Armed Forces of Ukraine, two of which are from the Special Operations Forces. Eight fighters of the territorial defense, seven members of the National Guard of Ukraine, six from the National Police, five from the State Border Guard Service, two from the Naval Forces, and one representative of the State Emergency Service of Ukraine also returned. In addition, the bodies of dead volunteers have returned. "We managed to return the bodies of the dead foreign volunteers Christopher Matthew Parry and Andrew Tobias Matthew Bagshaw, as well as the body of the deceased volunteer soldier a Ukrainian who served in the French Foreign Legion and after the start of the full-scale Russian invasion returned to defend Ukraine Yevhen Kulik," Yermak wrote. In turn, the Ministry of Defense of the aggressor state reported that 63 Russian soldiers were released from Ukrainian captivity after negotiations. "The group of released Russian servicemen includes individuals of the 'sensitive category' whose exchange was possible thanks to the mediation efforts of the leadership of the United Arab Emirates," the ministry said. According to the report, at present, all Russian troops are currently in the territory of the Russian Federation. VACAVILLE, Calif., Feb. 03, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- February is National Career Technical Education (CTE) Month, and the City of Vacaville joined the celebration by hosting a field trip for 58 Vacaville high school students February 3. The field trip included several locations around Vacaville and Solano County to explore advanced manufacturing and biotechnology. Every February, the Association for Career and Technical Education encourages communities to celebrate CTE Month, to raise awareness of the role that CTE has in readying learners for college and career success. This is also a time when the City of Vacaville recognizes and celebrates the contributions and achievements of community CTE partners including Solano Community College (SCC) and The Workforce Development Board of Solano County. This field trip is an excellent opportunity for Vacavilles young people to explore advanced manufacturing and biotechnology first-hand, said Don Burrus, Director of Economic Development Services for the City of Vacaville. We are excited to give our students this unique learning experience during National Career Technical Education Month and to share opportunities available to them right here in their own community. Not only does this set our students up for success, but it also supports the local, organic growth and expansion of our talent pipeline and attracts more industries. The adventure began at the SCC Advanced Manufacturing Lab where students had an opportunity to program CNC (Computer Numerical Control) equipment which plays a pivotal role in manufacturing. The SCC certificate and degree program trains students on electrical and mechanical components used in manufacturing systems. The program offers a great solution for students to get into higher level jobs, said Douglas Green, Advanced Manufacturing Instructor with SCC. Students get a lot of hands-on training working on real projects, learning how to troubleshoot and problem solve. Almost all of our students, if they're not already working, receive several competing job offers to go right to work. Moving next to Wunder-Bar, students experienced firsthand the shift from learning environment to real world manufacturing. Wunder-Bar manufactures food and beverage dispensing systems. A leader in the industry, they pride themselves on innovation, custom product development, quality and top-notch service. Career and Technical Education is critical to meeting the workforce needs, said Emmalie Hawes, Director of Human Resources West Coast, Foodservice West with Wunder-Bar. Careers in advanced manufacturing are not only in high demand, but they also lead to highly successful careers. As a long-standing business in the community, we are dedicated in advancing the cause. Next on the itinerary, students visited the Nut Tree Airport in Vacaville for a tour of the SCC Aeronautics Center where they learned about Airframe and Power Plant Maintenance. The program equips students with practical and theoretical knowledge in basic maintenance techniques, and special requirements of airframe and powerplant work. Upon conclusion, students are eligible to take the Federal Aviation Administration written oral and practical examination for airframe or powerplant license. Creating the connection from education to practice, students then visited ICON Aircraft in Vacaville who provided a tour of their aircraft production facility and an opportunity for the students to meet the technicians who build the amphibious light-sport aircraft. ICON takes pride in its aircraft design and is very proud to invite the local community to see the great work that we do in designing the best light aircraft with the first ever spin resistant seal of approval from the FAA, shared Maria Odena Head of ICONs Human Resources. A career in manufacturing typically gives most individuals a hands on experience working with exciting new technologies or products, added Andrew Mesias, ICONs Senior Manager at the Aircraft Completion Center. The day was concluded with biomanufacturing which included a tour of the Solano College Vacaville Campus California Biomanufacturing Education Center. The $34 million Center is equipped with state-of-the-art technology to further new education opportunities and is one of 15 community colleges in California that offers a Bachelor of Science degree. The students can come in, and depending on their personal circumstances, can exit into a high tech, high quality, high potential for upward mobility career, said Michael Silva, Professor with the Solano Community College Biotechnology Program. We have a near 100% placement rate and are trying to increase the pipeline and the number of students who are taking our program with a high school to Ph.D. pathway with multiple entry and exit points. The final business tour at Vacavilles RxD Nova Pharmaceuticals created the link between classroom and career. Students were able to see how a biomanufacturing facility operates and the types of careers available in the industry. Students learned the concept of biological drugs and how they differ from chemical drugs, as well as the application of biological drugs in clinical treatment. RxD Nova Pharmaceuticals is an emerging biotechnology and biomanufacturing company, shared Dr. W Shen, Chief Operating Officer at RxD Nova Pharmaceuticals. We support Vacavilles Career Technical Education program because we want to help Vacaville's youth grow. Vacaville has long been the center of biomanufacturing in California. We need to help encourage younger, talented students to join the industry and support the development of biomedicine. The City of Vacaville has become a leader in the life-science market with a robust Biotech Strategy and a Biotechnology Fast-Track Program committing the City to processing Planning entitlements in 100 days or less. It is not just about available and affordable land; Vacavilles prime location and talent pipeline have created the perfect ecosystem. Sharing the exciting career opportunities with local high school students offers each of them a wide variety of options right in their own backyard and secures a future in this rapidly growing field for generations to come. Contact: Don BurrusDirector of Economic Development Services707.449.5611[email protected] Photos accompanying this announcement are available at:https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/611d209a-2ff8-4ab6-8ec8-962602aec0ee https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/13e5bf96-bd62-49c5-9bb9-e6f73c4dc851 https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/b7e90009-e8cd-4e06-a3d3-3bd6f8eeefd6 https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/f1495acc-f00d-4d95-956c-495808b95433 Students at ICON Aircraft Students pose in front of aircraft at ICON Aircraft Solano Community College Biomanufacturing Program Professors Jim DeKloe and Michael Silva discuss programs with students. CNC Machine Operation CNC Machine is demonstrated to students at Solano Community College Manufacturing Program Solano Community College Aeronautics Students receive information at Solano Community College Aeronautics program. Source: City of Vacaville GreenPrizm builds A More Transparent and Efficient Green Economy. Summary: GreenPrizm establishes an online platform to promote the green economy. Recently, it developed new services to bridge the gap between investors and stakeholders. Huandao, Hengqin--(Newsfile Corp. - February 4, 2023) - GreenPrizm is a finance and technology platform that works for the green economy. The company has improvised new services in the latest development to bridge the gap between investors and stakeholders. The company focuses on preserving the world's clean atmosphere with the changing world. Therefore, GreenPrizm has developed the following new services to cater to its objectives: FACILITATE THE FLOW OF GREEN CAPITAL: GreenPrizm is the conduit between the world's investors and the multiple stakeholders driving the green economy. It helps facilitate the flow of capital required to reach carbon net neutrality. CARBON EMISSIONS DATA CURATION: Working with government, public and private corporations, academia and the investment community, it focuses on the assessment, monitoring, aggregation, and standardization of carbon emission data produced by enterprises and infrastructure projects. SINGLE SOURCE OF TRUTH FOR CARBON REPORTING: A single source of truth for multiple stakeholders for carbon emission data in GBA/China. The company also generates reporting, analysis, and consulting solutions across the full spectrum of green activity. The Innovation Triangle - Strategic alliances with Industry, Universities and Government are the key to R&D and talent leadership and economic growth. R&D cooperation is a core aspect of GreenPrizm's innovation strategy. The company is known to work together with academia, governments, and institutions to develop more efficient green financing and sustainability initiatives with metrics and targets that align with global climate goals and jurisdictional carbon reduction commitments. Strategic alliances with Industry, Universities and Government are also key to R&D and talent leadership and economic growth. Jerry Cristoforo previously worked closely with the former mayor of Hangzhou, CAI QI, to develop infrastructure to allow a financial institution to expand its offshore Centers of Excellence. CAI Qi is a current member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cai_Qi Furthermore, GreenPrizm focuses on Data and Analysis Support, providing enterprise data and analytics infrastructure and curation processes to support ESG reporting, corporate governance, monitoring, and risk management in implementing sustainability strategies. It strives to improve efficiency and transparency by supporting the investment community and corporations towards greater efficiency in green financing and improving transparency in green projects and corporate reporting. The services of GreenPrizm will be provided through their green data analytics platform offering secure data management, corporate carbon emissions reporting database, and calculations of carbon emissions methodology frameworks that conform with industry and regulatory guidelines. It facilitates its clients by assessing its corporate carbon emissions footprint, products, and supply chains. This increased level of green transparency includes direct monitoring of energy usage and sourcing of companies to provide investors with great confidence in the quality of information used for green investment screening and selection. Partnering with local governments, GreenPrizm is seeking to help develop carbon-neutral industrial parks with integrated green services that include green financing, certification, and acquiring carbon offsets. About the team of GreenPrizm GreenPrizm consists of a GBA-based international team. The company is headquartered in Hengqin with a subsidiary in Hong Kong. GreenPrizm's team of experienced finance, research and technology professionals has extensive experience servicing asset owners, asset managers, banks, insurance/reinsurance companies and local governments, as well as developed and deployed enterprise financial and risk management software and advisory solutions for clients in China and globally. For further information About the Services and Product Offerings, visit: https://greenprizm.com/#id=k42nx1&p=greenprizm Media Details: Company Name: GreenPrizm Contact Email Address: [email protected] Location: Room 303, Block A, Building 17, No.1889, Huandao East Road, Hengqin District, Guangdong Province, PRC, 519031 To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/153599 WASHINGTON, Feb. 3, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- NASA is awarding $11.7 million to eight Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) through the new Data Science Equity, Access, and Priority in Research and Education (DEAP) opportunity. These awards will enable HBCU students and faculty to conduct innovative data science research that contributes to NASA's missions. "We're pleased to make progress through awards like this to intentionally build the STEM pipeline of the future, especially in communities of color," said NASA Deputy Administrator Pam Melroy. "It's fitting during Black History Month that we make this tangible step to build on the talent pool at HBCUs in our ongoing work to bring to the table all the talents and perspectives we'll need to send humans to the Moon, Mars and beyond, and do amazing science throughout the solar system." Technology advancements in the field of data science, including the growth of artificial intelligence and machine learning, are poised to significantly impact the work of data scientists and analysts. The awarded projects have up to three years to establish institutes and partnerships to increase the number and research capacity of STEM students at HBCUs, accelerate innovation in a wide range of NASA science, technology, engineering, and mathematic research areas, and prepare the future workforce for data-intensive space-based Earth sciences. "The increasing use of data science at NASA and beyond really drives home the need for a future workforce with data science knowledge," said Mike Kincaid, associate administrator of NASA's Office of STEM Engagement, which manages MUREP. "With our newest collaboration, NASA created an exciting pathway to find new talent at HBCUs." The agency's Minority University Research and Education Project (MUREP) and the Science Mission Directorate collaborated on the DEAP opportunity, and selected the following institutions and their proposed projects: Bethune-Cookman University Inc., Daytona Beach, Florida NASA MUREP DEAP Institute of Environmental Intelligence for Advanced Space-based Earth Sciences The project will establish a DEAP Institute focusing on machine learning-based development of a virtual constellation of satellites that will capture changing water levels, from events such as storm flooding to multi-decadal time scales, such as sea level rise. NASA tracks sea level changes and its causes from space. Fayetteville State University, Fayetteville, North Carolina Institute for Multi-agent Perception through Advanced Cyberphysical Technologies (IMPACT) The IMPACT project will build on existing capacity and collaboration with NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Silicon Valley, California, to engage students and faculty in using data science to address scientific questions as one of the key factors to manage NASA's Earth mission research. Florida A & M University, Tallahassee, Florida Effects of Gravity on Creeping Salts and Salt Mixtures: Developing Image-based and AI-enhanced Diagnostics for Determining Chemical Compositions This project will rely on artificial intelligence and machine learning to better understand the science of concentrated salt solutions and the formation of ring-like deposits called evaporites. Understanding the science of salt concentrations and formation of evaporites will bring new insight into identifying where water may have existed. Water is a critical source NASA researches and explores to better understand other planets' surface geology and the potential future of lunar and Martian exploration. Lincoln University, Jefferson City, Missouri Using Data Science to Understand Soil, Wildfire, & Social Disparity of Climate Change and Air Pollution This project aims to provide data science problem-solving, skill development, and professional development of minority and underserved students. Students will utilize existing state-of-the-art ML methods to develop new data analytic approaches to solve some of the core problems in Earth science research. Morgan State University, Baltimore Long-Term, High-Resolution Urban Aerosol Database for Research, Education and Outreach Through innovative data analysis algorithms, including ML/AI methods, this project will produce a high-resolution, open-access, and user-friendly urban aerosol database focusing on the Baltimore-Washington area. The database will also be used in both classroom teaching and scientific outreach, accompanied by online tools and educational materials bringing new, authentic Earth science education to local schools and communities. North Carolina Agricultural & Technical State University, Greensboro, North Carolina DEAP Institute: Harnessing Data Science for Flood Monitoring and Management Three North Carolina-based HBCUs will work together on this project developed to harness data science for flood monitoring and management. North Carolina Central University, Durham, North Carolina Capacity Building to Support the Machine Learning-Based Detection of Floods and other Natural Hazard Impacts in the Department of Environmental, Earth and Geospatial Sciences at North Carolina Central University This project will create training, data resources, and opportunities to use machine learning/artificial intelligence to identify and measure the impact of flood events and other natural hazards such as earthquakes, hurricanes, drought, wildfires, and more. Prairie View A & M University, Prairie View, Texas DEAP Institute in Research and Education for Science Translation via Low-Resource Neural Machine Translation This project aims to build an AI-based system that can share interactive, instantaneous, and user-relevant Earth science information, making NASA science more discoverable and accessible to a broad audience. "NASA is tackling how to use the latest techniques in data science combined with the volumes of data produced by our missions to answer questions about our changing planet," said Steven Crawford, senior program executive for scientific data and computing. "Working with students from HBCUs will not only engage the generation that will be most affected by these subjects but will help NASA scientists and engineers address these challenges." Administered by OSTEM, MUREP supports and invests in the research, academic, and technology capabilities of Minority Serving Institutions. For more information about NASA's Office of STEM Engagement, visit: https://stem.nasa.gov View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/nasa-awards-millions-to-historically-black-colleges-universities-301738800.html SOURCE NASA (Tribune News Service) Combat medicine training in the field with cadavers isnt new for the U.S. military, but historically it has been reserved for Green Berets, Navy SEALs and other elite special operations troops. As the sun rose on a recent morning over the 25th Infantry Divisions Lightning Academythe Armys jungle warfare school in Wahiawaa group of medics was being trained in battlefield first aid. A member of the Armys 3rd Special Forces Group out of Fort Bragg, N.C., who was evaluating the soldiers, told them, This is medical training, but remember, you are combat medics. As they approached a patient, an explosion rang out and gunshots popped. Once the soldiers secured the area, they began applying first aid, working to stop the bleeding. But unlike usual training exercises, real blood was coming out of the patienta human cadaver that had been pumped with cow blood and inflicted with real injuries. The weeklong training event was overseen by the 325th Brigade Support Battalion of the Oahu-based 25th Infantry Divisions 3rd Infantry Brigade Combat Team. It was the second iteration of a new program developed by soldiers in Hawaii and first carried out in January 2022. We kind of saw the need for specific training for the medics in the jungle (area of operations ), 1st Lt. James Barr, one of the soldiers who helped create the program, told a Honolulu Star-Advertiser reporter who observed the training Jan. 25. Combat medicine training in the field with cadavers isnt new for the U.S. military, but historically it has been reserved for Green Berets, Navy SEALs and other elite special operations troops. Medics from Army special operations units flew in to Oahu to evaluate the trainees and give them advice on how to better render first aid, move and ultimately save their patients. Exercise planners said the training in Hawaii was unique in being organized and mostly carried out by conventional troops and is one of the largest-scale exercises that Safeguard Medical, a North Carolina-based company that provides cadavers, has worked on. The company, which provides a range of services to first responders and military clients, shipped 10 cadavers to Oahu for the exercise. Troops from around Oahu, including personnel from Tripler Army Medical Center and Navy corpsmen, went through the coursea rare opportunity for this sort of realistic training. Usually, they train with mannequins, but Sgt. 1st Class Bryan Essig, a senior medic who treated combat casualties in Afghanistan, said giving medics training with real human tissue is a game changer that will both prepare them for the shock of actually handling a body and help them better save lives in the real world. Groups of soldiers were tasked with maneuvering through the jungle to find the cadavers, which had a variety of wounds ranging from severe lacerations to missing limbs. After providing aid, troops then moved their simulated patients to an evacuation point where either a medical evacuation helicopter or a military ground ambulance would retrieve the casualties. The cadavers were then brought to a grassy clearing where a series of tents and vehicles made up a field hospital where surgeons and other medics worked, themselves training on the cadavers to hone their skills. Essig said that when he was sent to Afghanistan within nine months of getting assigned to his first unit, I did not have the luxury to train like this. Mannequin technology is much better now than it was 15 years ago, where we can actually pump them up and perfuse fake blood through them, he said. But mannequin tissue does not react like human tissue does. It just doesnt. According to Barr, Safeguard Medicals TruBODIES Reanimated Tissue Training system provides realistic, immediate feedback for the medics on the ground. One group of medics whose uniforms were caked with mud from moving, fighting and carrying a patient through the jungle said that working with cadavers was a huge change of pace from what they would usually experience during field training. Its definitely interesting feeling what its like to stop the bleeding in an actual human being, said Pfc. Chris Berns. Youre actually putting in gauze into the human body instead of just in a hole in a mannequin. Youre actually seeing how a tourniquet will force the body to stop bleeding. Spc. Kendra Moore described moving through the jungle carrying a cadaver in the early morning as the dew was still thick, making the ground slippery with fresh mud. Sgt. Fafundo Zalazar said that just carrying a human cadaver was different from the mannequin they would usually carry on a stretcher for evacuation. It was more lopsided, I would say, Zalazar said. You definitely felt the weight shift (compared with ) a mannequin where its pretty balanced out. Even if its missing one of his legs, its pretty balanced out. So the weight shift is tremendously different. For the 325th Brigade Support Battalion, the jungle exercise was a return to its roots after two decades of deploying to the mountains and deserts of Iraq and Afghanistan. The unit was activated at Schofield Barracks shortly after the Japanese navys Dec. 7, 1941, attack on Oahu, and by 1942 it was setting up field hospitals in the jungles of the Solomon Islands. Were doing the exact same thing we started doing in 1941, said battalion commander Lt. Col. Brandon Grooms. As counterinsurgency fights in places like Iraq and Afghanistan dragged on and casualties mounted over the past two decades, the military tried various ways to give its medics the more realistic trauma care training. In 2008, PETA protested when the 25th Infantry Division decided to use live pigs to train combat medics in preparation for a deployment to Iraq. The Pentagon ultimately invested in heavily armored vehicles to protect troops from ambushes and the improvised explosive devices favored by insurgents, and there was an established procedure to get badly wounded troops off the battlefield as quickly as possible within the golden hour in which they would be more likely to survive. But military commanders are moving away from counterinsurgency warfare to preparing for the potential of larger conventional battles as geopolitical tensions boil. The Pentagon has gradually shifted its attention to the Pacific, which it considers its top priority theater of operations, amid tensions with China. Oahu is the nerve center for U.S. military operations in the region, which are overseen by U.S. Indo-Pacific Command at Camp Smith. In a potential conflict with Chinese or Russian forces, which have more weapons to shoot down enemy aircraft than the insurgent groups the U.S. military has been accustomed to fighting, American troops may not be able to count on aircraft being able to assist the way they have in the past. The bloody fighting in Ukraine has offered a sobering look at what that could look like as heavy weapons tear through armor, artillery rains down on populated cities and anti-aircraft weapons blow helicopters out of the sky. I was spoiled, said Essig, explaining that he used to count on helicopters to swoop in and retrieve casualties in Afghanistan after medics rendered first aid. The emphasis of the recent training was on providing prolonged care in the field to keep casualties alive until safe evacuation is possible. Thats where the key is going to be, Essig said. Thats where medicine is moving in a combat environment. Military leaders are also thinking about scenarios where casualties could be much higher in a large-scale conflict between superpowers. Grooms said mass casualties werent the focus of the recent Oahu exercise and that cadavers were used to give medics quality, individual training on human anatomy for saving lives. But the possibility of military medical personnel having to deal with hundreds of wounded during a battle is on the minds of those who might one day shoulder that burden. Barr said, Its going to change the dynamic of how we need to triage, and I think thats still in refinement. I dont know personally how its really going to look. In the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, the most badly wounded were prioritized to increase their chance of survival. But Barr said that in any future large-scale battles, medical personnel may have to prioritize the ones who are most likely to be saved and able to be returned to duty. Decisions like that are going to be made well above my level, Barr said. Down at the company level, were just here to execute (and ) save as many lives and keep that fighting force as fit to fight as we can. (c)2023 The Honolulu Star-Advertiser Visit The Honolulu Star-Advertiser at www.staradvertiser.com (Tribune News Service) Some 8,500 people turned out on Dec. 16, 2017, to watch the commissioning of the new $440 million USS Little Rock draped in red, white and blue bunting at Buffalo and Erie County Naval and Military Park. That now appears to have been the ships only bright moment. Not even six years later, the USS Little Rock will be decommissioned on March 31 at Mayport Naval Station in Florida, where it is stationed. The 387-foot-long vessel was imperiled from the start with significant design flaws that the Navy has concluded cannot be overcome. U.S. Navy officials first announced at a media briefing almost a year ago that nine Freedom-class littoral combat ships would be decommissioned as part of the 2023 fiscal year budget. Its somewhat of an embarrassment, said Paul Marzello, the Naval Parks executive director. It was a happy moment, a proud moment on Dec. 16, 2017, and here it is five and a half years later, and shes being decommissioned. It is really a disappointment, said Maurice Naylon, who chaired the commissioning committee. We were so proud of the way we joined forces for this historic event, and it certainly put a nice sheen on Buffalos reputation. The Little Rock suffered a major failure at sea in 2020, six weeks after departing Mayport on its first deployment due to a flaw in the propulsion system, according to defensennews.com . The nine Lockheed Martin-built high-speed vessels were designed to operate in shallow waters, and they were outfitted with some 8,000 computer sensors. All were hit with the propulsion problem. The ships will likely be scrapped or sunk to the bottom of an ocean the fate of many decommissioned ships. Rear Adm. John Gumbleton, the deputy assistant secretary of the Navy for budget, put the cost of the nine vessels the newest of which was commissioned in 2020 to be decommissioned at $4.5 billion, according to defensenews.com . Thats a lot of money going, literally, right down the drain, said Mike Vogel, president of the Buffalo Lighthouse Association. It was a very expensive ship that had all kinds of potential, and it was certainly an honor to have it commissioned here in Buffalo. Its kind of heartbreaking to see it a little bit later being decommissioned and probably scrapped. The modular, reconfigurable ship was built to engage in surface warfare, hunt enemy submarines and eliminate mines. The ship had the rare capacity to change from one mission to another within 96 hours, and, in some cases, just 24 hours. Its plug and play mission versatility also accommodated different weapon systems delivered at sea in steel cargo containers and lowered into the ship on a freight elevator, then maneuvered into place with overhead cranes and plugged into the ships computers. Littoral combat ships can also maneuver in water just 13 1/2 feet deep, well below the 30 feet most naval ships require. That allows the ships to enter more ports, particularly in islands from Sri Lanka to the Philippines. But the $762 billion defense budget for fiscal year 2023 included a request from the Navy to decommission 39 warships, including the nine Freedom-class littoral combat ships. U.S. Rep. Steve Womack, who represents the Fayetteville, Ark., area, and takes pride in the two ships named for the state capital, told the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette in October that the littoral combat ship program represented a sad chapter in the history of the Navy. Its sad that the USS Little Rock is one of those out of the Freedom class, Womack said. The Freedom class had more problems than the others, but the entire littoral combat ships program has suffered from a lot of setbacks. Deactivated ships are taken to one of three locations where mothballed fleets of naval vessels wait for disposal: Philadelphia, Bremerton, Wash., and Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. The ships are often disassembled for the steel to be recycled. But thats not always the case. Ships are also deliberately sunk, generally in locations where they can become artificial reefs to promote sea life, Vogel said. The Navys Ship Donation Program decides if a vessel can be donated as a floating museum. But that rarely happens with ships with short lifespans. The Naval Parks USS Little Rock, commissioned in 1945, served until 1976, six times the length of service of the newer namesake. Marzello recalls fondly the commissioning of the newer ship. Former Secretary of the Navy Ray Mabus, who once served on the-now museum USS Little Rock, and 300 former crew members and relatives, were on hand for the historic occasion. So was Commander Paul Burkhart, a Western New York native who served as the new Little Rocks first commander while under construction. Were going to certainly take a look at any opportunity that could possibly bring her back to Buffalo as a museum ship, Marzello said. It would be an interesting opportunity to see a 1940s ship called the USS Little Rock versus a 2017 version. It didnt look like much from the outside, but the inside was a technological marvel. (c)2023 The Buffalo News (Buffalo, N.Y.) Visit The Buffalo News at www.buffalonews.com Finding missing presidential documents all over the place is nothing new. In 1970, historians discovered papers of President James K. Polk, who was in office from 1845 to 1849, in a desk drawer at his ancestral home in Tennessee. It was nothing secret - mainly notes from Dolley Madison and John Quincy Adams. But other recovered presidential documents have held greater significance, including the original copies of the Monroe Doctrine and the Treaty of Versailles. After recent discoveries of classified documents at the private homes of President Biden - from when he was vice president - and former vice president Mike Pence, the National Archives and Records Administration last week wrote to the offices of U.S. presidents and vice presidents back to Ronald Reagan, asking them to check for such material. Biden and Pence both said they were unaware of the documents' presence in their homes and voluntarily turned them over. Former president Donald Trump has been under criminal investigation since last August, when FBI agents raided his Florida estate and found boxes of presidential papers, including classified documents, after Trump failed to comply with a subpoena to return papers. The law requires former presidents and vice presidents to relinquish all official documents, not just classified ones. In the past, presidents could legally do whatever they wanted with their papers, with the result that some important documents were lost for years. In 1923, Supreme Court Justice Louis Brandeis asked the Senate's assistant secretary to find the records creating the federal courts. His search made news when it also uncovered something else. "The famous Monroe Doctrine has been unearthed from a dark room under the terrace of the capitol, yellow with age and about to crumble," United News reported. The discovery coincided with the centennial anniversary of the handwritten Monroe Doctrine that President James Monroe sent to Congress on Dec. 2, 1823. The doctrine warned European nations not to interfere in affairs in the Western Hemisphere. The original copy was found "packed away in a wooden file, partly rotted and covered with cobwebs," United News reported. It is now in the National Archives. Polk didn't have time to organize his papers after he left office in March 1849, because he died five months later. Historians searching Polk's home in Columbia, Tenn., in 1970 discovered "a large collection of his papers and correspondence," the Associated Press reported. Included was an 1845 note from President James Madison's widow, Dolley, that she "regrets she cannot accept the President's and Mrs. Polk's invitation for Friday next," the AP reported. In another note, Rep. John Quincy Adams (Mass.), a former president, accepted a dinner invitation. Some presidents had a hard time hanging on to their papers. Ulysses S. Grant, who left office in 1877, said, "The only place I ever found in my life to put a paper so as to find it again was either a side coat pocket or the hands of a clerk . . . more careful than myself." In 1904, a Library of Congress official determined that the late president had left some folders of letters in the White House, but they couldn't be found. Finally, in 1921, Grant's grandson, Ulysses S. Grant III, got permission from new President Warren G. Harding to make another search. Four Grant "letterbooks" were found and placed in the Library of Congress, according to the library's researchers. Harding had his own missing-papers problem. In July 1921, he signed a peace treaty passed by Congress to formally end World War I after the Senate had rejected the Treaty of Versailles negotiated under President Woodrow Wilson. Around the time of the signing, the official U.S. copy of the 240-page Versailles treaty was "lost, strayed or stolen" and "no one knows where it is," The Washington Post reported. Harding said at a news conference that there was "no mystery as to the whereabouts" of the document, the New York Times reported, but the president "will not come out flatly and tell just where the treaty is deposited." The treaty "might be in the president's desk, it was said, at the White House," the Times wrote. "Then again it might not." It wasn't. A letter about the treaty soon arrived at the White House from Wilson, who had been disabled by a stroke in his last two years in office. "This was at the time I was very ill, and the copy was put in my private fireproof files for safekeeping," Wilson wrote; then it was moved to his Washington home when he left office. Wilson said he would deposit the official copy with the State Department. A missing document also was a headache for President Lyndon B. Johnson in the lead-up to the 1967 Six Day War between Israel and Arab states led by Egypt. Israel's foreign minister showed Johnson a copy of a 1957 memorandum by former president Dwight D. Eisenhower's secretary of state, John Foster Dulles, with handwritten notes promising U.S. support for Israel if that country were attacked. "Chaos ensued," LBJ presidential aide John Roche wrote in 1976. "Where was our copy?" Johnson had never heard of the document, and it couldn't be found. "President Johnson scorched the wallpaper in the Oval Office on what kind of way this was to run a country," Roche wrote. Israel quickly won the war without calling for U.S. military support. The original memorandum was found at Princeton University in Dulles's papers. When Johnson left the White House after President Richard M. Nixon took office, Roche wrote, "about 40 truckloads of 'his' papers went to Texas with him." LBJ probably should have left certain papers behind. "The Nixon administration discovered upon entering office in 1969 that files of the National Security Council regarding the initiation of Strategic Arms Limitation Talks (SALT) with the Soviet Union had been removed with the Johnson administration papers," a federal records commission said in a 1977 report. Rather than trying to find the files, the report said, Nixon officials relied on NSC staffers to reconstruct the principles Johnson had presented to Soviet leaders. The next big find during the Watergate scandal was the existence of secret White House tapes, which Nixon at first refused to release, saying they belonged to him. In 1974, Congress passed a law requiring him to turn over all presidential materials. In 1978, Congress enacted the Presidential Records Act, requiring future presidents and vice presidents to relinquish all presidential material when leaving office. The AP recently reported that Jimmy Carter, the last president not covered by the law, also had "found classified materials at his home" in Plains, Ga., in 1981 and promptly returned them. Reagan, the first president covered by the law, is not known to have lost any secret documents, but the man who investigated him over the Iran-contra scandal did. In 1992, independent counsel Lawrence Walsh flew to California to interview the former president. On the way back, a Walsh aide put some "highly classified" documents in his suitcase, which he curb-checked at the Los Angeles airport. When the aide went to retrieve the bag at Washington's Dulles Airport, "it couldn't be found," the AP reported, and was assumed "stolen." There was never any public report of the suitcase's being found. Some travel wags speculate that it might still be revolving on a remote Dulles Airport luggage carousel. JUBA, South Sudan Several hundred lucky people were chosen to see the pope on Saturday - and a few even told him their stories - but the other 47,000 stayed back where they always are, yet another day in a forlorn displacement camp. While the pope, in a conference hall, talked about the miseries and injustice of losing one's home, many of the people five miles away in Juba IDP Camp 3, as the site is known, didn't have the means to watch. Even in one of the world's poorest countries, then, there was still room for a profound contrast on Saturday: between a well-planned papal event, words scripted in advance, and the ugliness of a sometimes-violent place where people squander years of their lives, feeling like nothing will change. "Me, I'm waiting for the pope to come here," said Elizabeth Njadien Riek, at the camp where she has spent a decade. "You came alone," she told a Post journalist visiting the site. "People like you are always coming - you ask, you ask - but nothing comes of it." The camp, situated just beyond South Sudan's capital, reachable by red dust roads, is itself a mini city - and it speaks to the astonishing scale of near-permanent crises that have engulfed South Sudan. Years of war and ethnic rivalry, compounded more recently by climate change and flooding, have fed what is often called Africa's largest refugee crisis, with some 2 million South Sudanese fleeing to neighboring nations, and another 2 million remaining inside the country, with nowhere adequate to go. "Sadly, in this war-torn country, being a displaced person or a refugee has become a common and collective experience," Francis said in his address. The Juba IDP Camp 3 is a place for traumatized people that only makes the situation worse. White tents are spread out in blocks, separated by dusty, shadeless paths. The smell of human waste is pervasive. Makeshift services have popped up in the camp - a barber shop, churches, a school - making for a corrugated metal world that some people scarcely ever leave. More than half the population is younger than 18. An ever-growing percentage has been born there and knows nothing else. "It's terrible," said Chap Deng Magany, who arrived at the camp in 2013, when the war began. As he spoke, a naked child played on top of garbage. He said the camp has problems with malaria, sanitation, and mental health. Others said that people at the camp have endured horrors like seeing their children slaughtered, or being forced to drink the blood of killed relatives. "People can go nearly mad because of that," said one camp organizer, who requested anonymity because he is not authorized to speak publicly. The official said that most people in the camp feel they have "no future." One resident called it a camp of "orphans and widows." For a place that sprung up as a temporary solution during the onset of fighting, one of the hardest things to grapple with is the de facto permanence. The reasons why people have stayed there for years vary. Many have no land or homes to go back to. They lack money. The camp residents are overwhelmingly from the Nuer ethnic group, and even though a peace agreement among Nuer and Dinka political leaders has ended the worst bloodshed, they still see South Sudanese institutions, as well as the capital of Juba, as Dinka-dominated - and unsafe. "If we came out of the camp and returned to our land, somebody would come out with a gun and say: No!" said Khor Chuol Koam, 39, a camp resident. "And there is no accountability." Some in the camp even view the pope's trip, which is being spent entirely in the capital, with suspicion, worrying that he could receive a sanitized, or Dinka, narrative. They note that, on the itinerary of a trip planned for last year and then canceled because of the pope's knee pain, Francis was slated to visit a displacement camp. But this time a sampling of displaced people instead came to him. A Vatican spokesman noted that the road conditions getting to the camp would have been difficult. "He's being blindfolded," said Gatdet Ghan Yut, 31. Inside the hall where the pope spoke, the mood was upbeat. People who'd come from the Jube IDP Camp 3, as well as other camps from across South Sudan, wore lanyards and white hats with a logo commemorating the visit. The pope watched a video about the South Sudanese displacement crisis set to music. A United Nations representative spoke about "food insecurity," "sexual violence" and "chronic health issues" and "lack of education." Several teenagers from different camps recited short texts - haltingly, sometimes struggling with their reading comprehension - about their lives and dreams. "I plead with everyone from the heart: let us help South Sudan; let us not abandon its population," the pope then said. "They have suffered and they continue to suffer so greatly." He called on the country to commit to peace in a "more serious way," after a day earlier challenging the government - which presides over an oil-rich bounty - to cease corruption and act equitably. "The future cannot lie in refugee camps," Francis said. The country, over the last years, has seen the limits of the peace deal forged between South Sudan's president, Salva Kiir, a Dinka, and his Nuer deputy, Riek Machar. That deal has ended part of the fighting, but localized clashes among a constellation of ethnic groups continue, sometimes brought on by land disputes as flooding forces more people from their homes. Experts say the fighting is also a legacy of country that has been at war, in some form, for years: first for independence from Sudan, then with itself. There are so many wounds, so many grievances, so many guns, and sometimes even people at the displacement camps aren't safe. Scores in South Sudan have been displaced more than once. Martha Nyatok Riak, 26, said she's been displaced for a decade now, with her family chased by war and arriving at the Juba camp in 2013. Then, she was "just a girl," she said. She got pregnant soon after. She gave birth to a boy who is now 8, has lived only at the camp and doesn't attend school. To make money, she said, she washes dishes at one of the makeshift stores on the camp's commercial drag, and on good days, she earns 1,000 South Sudanese pounds; three days' labor could buy her a Fanta at an upscale Juba hotel. "It's stressful," she said. "Whatever I make, we spend it right away on flour. It is not enough." She offered a little tour of the camp, where several days earlier two people had been killed in a knife fight. But as she walked through the dusty paths, things were mostly calm. She reached her section of tents, which was predominantly home to women and children, and unlocked a metal door sealing off her living space. "There are thieves," she said. Her bed, which she shared with her son, was just a yellow foam mattress in a mud room. "If there had been no war, I could have continued my life," she said. She did not watch the pope's address. She was interested. But she doesn't have a smartphone, she said, and nobody else around seemed to be watching. FORT SHAFTER, Hawaii Like last year, soldiers with the Armys 25th Infantry Division will spend much of March and April in the Philippines as part of Operation Pathways, an expeditionary-style training campaign with decade-old roots. But with the announcement this week by the Philippines and U.S. that the two nations will speed up defense cooperation, soldiers from the Hawaii-based 25th ID will likely be spending more time in that Southeast Asian nation than in years past. It looks like we're going to be able to open up the aperture, not only on this year in Salaknib and Balikatan, but perhaps in years to come as well, Maj. Gen. Joseph Ryan, the divisions commander, said Wednesday during a phone interview. Salaknib, an army-to-army exercise, begins in early March. The much larger Balikatan, joint training that includes U.S. Marines, sailors and airmen, runs through most of April. Well actually get another bite at the apple later on this summer with another bilateral engagement with the Philippine army that we're calling Salaknib 2, but that exercise is kind of still coming together, Ryan said. The nascent Salaknib 2 and deepening defense cooperation announced this week are part of a general warming of relations between the U.S. and Philippines with the election last year of Ferdinand Marcos Jr. as president. His predecessor, Rodrigo Duterte, had slowed implementation of the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement, which had called for increasing rotations of U.S. troops in the country. Duterte took an antagonistic approach toward America, while striking a more conciliatory pose with China. The neighboring countries have long grappled with dueling claims of sovereignty over areas of the South China Sea. Marcos has welcomed greater American assistance in curtailing Chinese maritime incursions into areas the Philippines considers its territory. Operation Pathways began in 2014 as Pacific Pathways and deployed small units in the Indo-Pacific region for a few months at a time by moving through a series of established multinational exercises. It has since grown into something well beyond a string of exercises. We don't view them as independent events, Ryan said. We view them as a campaign. Thats the model that we apply, that this is a campaign for the 25th division in the region. When we're forward in the region, and we're operating alongside partners and allies, especially in a place like the Philippines, we get a lot of feedback that our deterrence efforts have momentum, he said. In an interview with Stars and Stripes last year, Gen. Charles Flynn, commander of U.S. Army Pacific, described Operation Pathways as posture for us. The goal is to get to about an eight-month period of time where we are operating in the region west of the international date line as a way to contribute to deterrence against our adversaries in the region, Ryan said. I believe strongly and I think there's a lot of data to support the fact that when we are forward with ready forces, we're deterring more than we are when we're back here on Oahu in Hawaii or elsewhere, he said. The lead element from the 25th for this years Pathways is the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, supported by the divisions aviation, artillery and sustainment brigades, Ryan said. The brigade prepared for Pathways with training on Oahu in October as part of the Armys Joint Pacific Multinational Readiness Center, which operates large-scale combat training centers in Hawaii and Alaska, as well as one that is deployable throughout the Indo-Pacific region. Ryan is headed to the Philippines this weekend to kick off a senior-leader symposium, where he will meet leaders of the Philippine armys 5th and 7th divisions, he said. The 25th ID will execute a staff exercise with that pair of divisions during Salaknib, he said. Operation Pathways continues with the Talisman Saber exercise in Australia, slated for July and early August. The Pathways campaign closes out with Garuda Shield in Indonesia in September. Pete Reed, a humanitarian, paramedic and U.S. Marine Corps veteran who had gone to work in Ukraine assisting people afflicted by the war, was killed in a front-line explosion on Thursday, according to his wife and the nonprofit organization they co-founded. He was 33. Reed was on assignment as country director for Global Outreach Doctors, a team of medical professionals who worked to rescue and treat people affected by famine and otherwise suffering as a result of the ongoing bloodshed, said his wife, Alex Potter. He was working in Bakhmut, a town in eastern Ukraine where for months Russian and Ukrainian forces have been locked in fierce warfare with neither side holding a decisive advantage. Potter said in an interview that another evacuation team near Reeds came under attack, prompting Reeds team to respond. They too faced shelling, she said. He was just such a special person, Potter said. Everything he did in life was to help other people. The couple married last year. Reed is at least the sixth American killed in Ukraine since Russias invasion nearly a year ago. Some had joined Ukrainian combat units as volunteers, while others have sought to assist the Ukrainian people in non-fighting capacities. Reed, a New Jersey native, joined the Marine Corps in September 2007, shortly after his 18th birthday. He became an infantryman and deployed twice over the next four years to Afghanistans Helmand province, according to records released by the service Friday. He served with 3rd Battalion, 8th Marines, based at Camp Lejeune in North Carolina, and earned a combat action ribbon, indicating he came under hostile fire or engaged enemy forces directly. At the time, some of the Afghan wars fiercest fighting took place in the Taliban stronghold where Reeds unit deployed. He left active duty as a corporal in September 2011 after completing a customary four-year enlistment, and began his humanitarian career a month later when Hurricane Sandy struck his home state, according to a biography posted online by Global Outreach Doctors. He assisted others in need after the storm while volunteering with Team Rubicon, a nonprofit that specializes in disaster response and includes many U.S. veterans. He settled briefly in Jackson Hole, Wyo. But after the Islamic State overran Iraq, Reed left the United States in 2015, leading medical teams with Kurdish forces partnered with the United States and then setting up an austere medical treatment facility during the Battle of Mosul, in which Iraqi forces, backed by American air power, took back a major city in some of the bloodiest fighting against the terrorist group. Reeds team treated more than 10,000 patients in trauma stabilization points outside the city, according to his biography. Danny Gold, a journalist who covered the conflict, recalled on Twitter that Reeds team set up stretchers in an empty, dusty lot, working with whatever supplies they had on hand. All day every day, for weeks and months, dozens of casualties poured into this lot, the war wounded, sometimes on the hood of Humvees, Gold recalled. Soldiers, the elderly, children with shrapnel wounds, family members crying in the background, explosions. It was harrowing. It is there, in November 2016, where Reed met Potter, a photojournalist who covered the Middle East. Months later, they helped co-found Global Response Medicine, a nonprofit focused on providing emergency medical care in hostile areas. Over the next few years, Reed was involved in operations in Iraq, Yemen, Syria and Poland. More recently, he attended paramedic school, graduating last year, his wife said. Potter and Reed moved to Anchorage in October, and he decided to take the assignment with Global Outreach Doctors last year. He left for Ukraine on his most recent assignment early in January. I knew that this was the kind of work that he loved, and he was good at, and that brought him life, she said. You cant tell someone no if they really want to do something that makes them shine, you know? Reed has many friends in Ukraine, and Potter has a large support network there she hopes to draw on to bring his remains home. The State Department also has been in touch, she said. He was incredibly supportive as a husband, Potter said, her voice catching. He always aggressively pushed me to achieve my dreams. He never thought that anything was impossible - either with us or with his own life. On Friday, the Canadian authorities announced the imposition of sanctions against individuals and legal entities as part of measures against the Russian Federation. "Canada is sanctioning 38 individuals and 16 entities that are complicit in peddling Russian disinformation and propaganda," the Canadian Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a press release. WASHINGTON The Pentagon on Friday announced a new tranche of military aid for Ukraine worth more than $2 billion, including long-range precision rockets that could help Ukrainian forces retake territory from Russia. Ground-launched small diameter bombs are being sent after weeks of repeated Ukrainian requests for more weapons and equipment to upgrade their battlefield capabilities and recapture lost territory in Ukraines eastern and southeastern regions, according to the Institute for the Study of War, a Washington-based think tank. The long-range GPS-guided bombs are basically modified GBU-39 small diameter bombs combined with a rocket motor. Friday was the first time they were part of a U.S. military aid package, Air Force Brig. Gen. Pat Ryder, the top Pentagon spokesman, said Friday. Also included in the latest military aid are more Javelin anti-armor systems, anti-armor rockets, two HAWK air defense systems and, also for the first time, equipment to marry Ukraines air defense systems with those supplied by the West. Todays announcement includes critical air defense capabilities to help Ukraine defend its people, as well as armored infantry vehicles and more equipment that Ukraine is using so effectively, Ryder said. Ukrainian officials said this week that theyre expecting a new wave of Russian attacks after observing a buildup of troops along sections of Ukraines border. Fighting across the country has been muted during the cold winter months, but Ukraine and Western allies expect Russia is gearing up for a new offensive once winter ends. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has said his country has a chance to beat them back -- if it gets the weapons it wants from the U.S. and other nations. Ukraine had lobbied for weeks for U.S.-made Patriot missile systems, Bradley Fighting Vehicles and M1 Abrams tanks. U.S. officials in some cases denied those requests initially, only to change their minds and give Ukraine the weapons. The long-range precision rockets have been on Ukraines wish list for months, and the ones included in the new package can accurately hit targets up to about 100 miles away, defense officials said. Ukrainian military officials also have been pleading with the U.S. to send advanced fighter aircraft, such as the Air Forces F-16 Fighting Falcon, believing they would be a game-changer in air superiority. Biden, however, said this week that the U.S. wont send F-16s. He had said the same when Ukraine requested Abrams tanks before agreeing to do so. Ukrainian pilots are not familiar with the F-16 and theyd have to train with them if the U.S. decided to provide some aircraft to them. The military aid package announced Friday is the first in February, which will see the one-year anniversary of the war in Ukraine. Since the invasion Feb. 24, the United States has given close to $30 billion to help defend Ukraine. It includes $425 million in equipment through presidential drawdown authority and $1.75 billion through the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative. Drawdowns allow the U.S. to send items quickly from Defense Department stocks, while giving through the Ukraine initiative takes longer because the items are procured from industry. The long-range rockets, which are fired through High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems, are part of the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative, which means it will take more time to procure them and ship them to Europe. The M1 Abrams tanks that the U.S. will send to Ukraine are also provided through the initiative, and Pentagon officials have said it will be several months before Ukrainian troops can use them. Ryder said the long-range rockets could be used in an Ukrainian attempt to retake Crimea, which Russia annexed in 2014. Yes, as part of the package we will provide ground-launched small diameter bombs to Ukraine, he told reporters at the Pentagon. This gives them a longer-range capability that will enable them to conduct operations in defense of their country and to take back their sovereign territory, Russian-occupied areas. When it comes Ukraines plans on operations, clearly that is their decision so Im not going to talk about or speculate about potential future operations. Other items included in the military aid package: 181 mine-resistant, ambush-protected vehicles. Almost 200 heavy machine guns with thermal imagery sights and ammunition to counter drones. Claymore anti-personnel and demolition munitions. Cold-weather gear, helmets, and other field equipment. Counter-drone systems. RQ-20 Puma drones. Secure communications equipment, medical supplies and funding for training, maintenance and sustainment. WASHINGTON (Tribune News Service) House lawmakers are set to meet next month with the CEO of TikTok at a hearing to probe whether one of the most popular apps in the world shares Americans data with China and whether it harms young children, the latest face-off between members of Congress and the head of a large social media platform. Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers , R-Wash., chair of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, who has made Big Tech accountability a key part of her agenda, said Monday that TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew would appear before the committee for the first time on March 23. ByteDance-owned TikTok has knowingly allowed the ability for the Chinese Communist Party to access American user data, Rodgers said, referring to TikToks Chinese parent company. Americans deserve to know how these actions impact their privacy and data security, as well as what actions TikTok is taking to keep our kids safe from online and offline harms. Its not just Republican lawmakers. There is evidence that TikTok secretly monitors users, collects sensitive personal information, and shares such information with adversarial actors like the Chinese Communist Party, Rep. Jan Schakowsky , D-Ill., the top Democrat on the Innovation, Data, and Commerce Subcommittee, said in an email. We cannot let them use TikTok to exploit and manipulate Americans. We need answers. TikTok denies that it shares data with China and spokeswoman Brooke Oberwetter said the company looks forward to set the record straight at the hearing and explain how the company has designed a secure system to store U.S. users data in the United States. Congress hasnt passed legislation that would protect data privacy, and lawmakers efforts on TikTok to date have focused on banning the app from government-issued devices. At least 30 states and the federal government have done so. The fear is that China, with access to the data, would be able to manipulate Americans, and, in the case of government workers, to spy on them. Lawmakers including Sens. Mark Warner , D-Va., and Marco Rubio , R-Fla., the chairman and vice chairman, respectively, of the Senate Intelligence Committee, told CBS News Sunday that TikTok would not be able to completely cut itself off from its Chinese parent. The Biden administration has yet to sign off on a security proposal presented by TikTok to an interagency review panel. The House committee has in recent years summoned top executives of Facebook parent Meta, Googles parent Alphabet, and Twitter, among others to answer questions about the companies data practices, violations of privacy, and targeting of kids on their platforms. Although lawmakers in both chambers and across party lines have gotten CEOs to answer questions and submit to a grilling, Congress remains divided on how to address the dangers of online social media platforms. The House Energy and Commerce Committee last year advanced a bipartisan bill backed by Rodgers and sponsored by ranking member Rep. Frank Pallone Jr. , D-N.J., that would produce a national data privacy standard, but the measure didnt get a House floor vote, and no similar measure has passed in the Senate. TikTok presents a more complicated case than the one faced by giants such as Google, Facebook and Twitter. President Donald Trump issued an executive order in July 2020 banning TikTok, along with WeChat, another popular Chinese-owned messaging app, from the U.S. market because the apps threaten the national security, foreign policy, and economy of the United States. But a few months later, Trump approved a deal that established a separate U.S. entity called TikTok Global, in which software maker Oracle and Walmart would own 20% of the equity. Even after the arrangement, officials and news reports have said the company could be sharing users data with the Chinese parent company and Beijing. FBI Director Christopher Wray told Congress in December that Beijing could still manipulate content, and if they want to, to use it for influence operations. BuzzFeed reported in June 2022, citing internal company recordings, that China-based employees of ByteDance were accessing nonpublic data on U.S. users. Chew wrote to several Republican senators who asked him to explain issues raised by the BuzzFeed article. In his June 30, 2022, letter to Sens. John Thune , R-S.D., Marsha Blackburn , R-Tenn., Roger Wicker , R-Miss., and others, Chew said the company was working on a long-term plan to halt such data access from China, and the recordings obtained by BuzzFeed referred to the project and were misconstrued. Chew wrote that the company was storing 100% of Americans data in the U.S. on servers operated by Oracle and was putting in place security measures to ensure no outside access was possible. As part of the deal reached with the Trump administration, TikTok was required to submit a proposal to the interagency Committee on Foreign Investment in the Untied States, or CFIUS, on how Americans data would be collected, where it would be housed, and security protocols the company would follow. The company submitted its security proposal to address national security concerns to the CFIUS committee in the summer of 2022 and hasnt yet heard back, Oberwetter said. The security proposals give the U.S. government power to approve vendors that will oversee TikToks security compliance processes, approve officers who will be on the board of TikToks U.S. subsidiary and play a role in auditing the software source code, according to TikTok. 2023 CQ-Roll Call, Inc., All Rights Reserved. Visit cqrollcall.com . Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. A fire continued to burn Saturday in Northeastern Ohio, after the derailment of a train carrying hazardous chemicals forced officials to order more than 1,500 residents to evacuate their homes. Twenty hours after the Friday night crash, the presence of the chemicals made it too risky for emergency responders to get close enough to put out the fire, local and federal officials said. Fifty cars derailed, 20 of which contained hazardous materials. Some cars contained vinyl chloride, a carcinogen, but federal officials said they couldn't say whether vinyl chloride was on fire. "The area is still very dangerous," East Palestine Fire Chief Keith A. Drabick said at a news conference Saturday afternoon. The derailment of the Norfolk Southern train around 9 p.m. Friday caused an explosion that sent flames high into the air and a dense cloud of smoke across the landscape. The fire first spanned the length of the derailed cars, National Transportation Safety Board member Michael Graham said at an evening news briefing, and was still burning on a smaller scale by 5 p.m. Saturday. The immediate area was blanketed by a chemical odor and chemicals were detected flowing into streams, local and federal officials said. They said no dangerous emissions had been detected and the village's drinking water was safe. Meanwhile, evacuated residents wondered when they'd be able to go home and questions swirled about what chemicals could be flowing into the air and water. "We're still trying to get the full picture of what happened, the chemicals included," said David Masur, executive director of PennEnvironment, an advocacy group in Pennsylvania, where counties just over the border from East Palestine were monitoring the situation. "There are certainly concerns about air pollution. . . Certainly there's concern about water contamination in rivers and streams and potential drinking water sources as you have runoff." Aside from vinyl chloride, neither Norfolk Southern nor the NTSB said what substances the train was carrying - and which might be on fire. A board member for the NTSB, which is investigating the incident, said the agency had a list of chemicals that may have been on board but had not verified it. Four of the rail cars were carrying vinyl chloride, and at least one was emitting the chemical via a safety release device, Graham said. "[Vinyl chloride] is one of the chemicals that's in there, but there's also other hazardous materials in there. So right now they're all posing a danger to us. We're treating them all equally," said NTSB investigator-in-charge Ruben Payan. The train was heading from Illinois to Conway, Pa., when it derailed near the Pennsylvania border. The track is a thoroughfare for trains carrying "a lot of different product," Drabick said. No injuries were reported, he said at the Saturday news conference. East Palestine Mayor Trent Conaway estimated that between 1,500 and 2,000 homes had been evacuated; others in the vicinity were told to shelter in place. When the train derailed, the sound echoed over the surrounding neighborhoods. Nate Velez, 31, who said he lives two streets over from the train tracks, thought it was a thunderstorm; his brother-in-law thought the train had hit something. Velez went outside and saw first the glow from the fire, then "a giant mountain of smoke," he told The Washington Post. He and his son drove to the end of the street, where they saw the fire raging with high flames and billows of smoke. "When I put my window down, the heat from the fire smacked me in the face. It was completely surreal," he said in a Facebook message to The Post. "I couldn't believe what I was actually seeing." As Velez turned his truck around, one of the derailed cars appeared to explode, he said. He and his son saw and heard the explosion and its flash, and their truck shook, Velez said. A spokesperson for Norfolk Southern said the company had workers on the scene working with first responders and government agencies. The company set up a drop-in assistance center. The Environmental Protection Agency, which Graham said was monitoring air quality, did not respond to a request for comment from The Post. "We have zero readings of any health risks as far as anything airborne coming from the chemicals," Drabick said, though Conaway added that substances had been detected in the "immediate area around the accident." Vinyl chloride is used to make PVC, the plastic resin that pipes and other materials are made of. Exposure to the chemical is associated with an increased risk of certain cancers, lymphoma and leukemia, according to the National Cancer Institute at the National Institutes of Health. Brief exposure can cause dizziness, sleepiness and headaches, according to Ohio's health department. The fumes in the area were strong on Saturday, Velez said. His family of four evacuated Friday night, somewhat panicked. They joined with three family members who live on the opposite side of the train tracks and went to a hotel. On Saturday, they relocated to an Airbnb about half an hour away, which they reserved until Monday. Velez said his engine repair business is also next to the tracks, and he doesn't know when he'll be able to go back to work. The family has already spent $600 on the evacuation, he said. He and his wife "had to sneak back" to their house Saturday morning to get clothes and supplies for their one-year-old, Velez said. After they got there, Velez said he got an instant headache. He likened the feeling to the sensations preceding car sickness and said the smell was similar to that of paint thinner. Now, he's wondering what will happen next. "I worry about any smoke damage at my shop and the possibility of smoke [or] vapor damage at home," Velez said. "I was also thinking about the chemicals and materials. . . . I'm worried about the long-term effects at this point." SAN DIEGO (Tribune News Service) On a visit to San Diego to highlight the administration's "cancer moonshot" and initiatives for military families, first lady Jill Biden toured a Logan Heights health clinic Friday to discuss a $100,000 cancer screening grant, before greeting crew members of the USS Gabrielle Giffords warship based at Naval Base San Diego. "Cancer touches all of us; the Bidens are no exception," said Biden, who herself had surgery last month to remove a common type of skin cancer and lost a stepson, Beau Biden, to cancer in 2015. In a roundtable with providers at Logan Heights Family Health Center, she discussed federal efforts to improve cancer screenings and early detection programs for communities with limited health care access. The administration's moonshot initiative, which Joe Biden spearheaded while vice president, aims to improve cancer treatments and conditions for patients and to cut cancer death rates in half within a generation. Its goals include resuming screenings missed due to the pandemic, reducing smoking rates and getting more patients into clinical trials. The first lady began advocating for cancer education and prevention in 1993, when four of her friends were diagnosed with breast cancer, and later launched an initiative to educate Delaware high school girls about the importance of breast cancer prevention. She has called for improving cancer screenings, especially those delayed due to the pandemic. In September, the moonshot program awarded $100,000 to the health center for health navigators and outreach specialists to promote early detection, boost screenings and guide patients to high-quality cancer care and treatment. On Thursday, the Biden administration announced an $11 million grant to fund similar programs at 22 other clinics throughout the country. Those services are important to help people unfamiliar with health care systems manage the shock of a cancer diagnosis and the complex decisions that often must follow, the first lady said. "You hear cancer, and you don't hear anything else," she said. Christopher Gordon, the chief medical officer for Family Health Centers of San Diego, said the grant enables the clinic to help newly diagnosed patients make sense of their treatment options and medical trials and overcome obstacles to care. Clinic officials are measuring how those services affect survival rates and patient outcomes, he said. "Early detection is the key," Biden said. "A lot of cancers are curable, and you don't need to be afraid." The first lady next stopped at the USS Gabrielle Giffords to greet about 20 crew members and deliver pizzas from Oggi's Pizza & Brewing Co. Before boarding the ship, which she christened in 2015, Biden changed from the heels she had been wearing into sneakers, in order to climb ladders on the vessel. Her final stop was a dinner hosted by the Armed Services YMCA for other Gabrielle Giffords crew members and their families. "Seeing it today, it's hard to believe that it was eight years ago that we christened the ship," she told the sailors, many of them joined by their spouses and children wearing party dresses and tiny suits. Biden acknowledged the role military families play in supporting service members, calling them as critical to the military mission "as the engine is to the ship." "Your health and your happiness matter to us," she said. "We have to make sure service is a matter of dignity and honor, pride and accomplishment for your entire family." Rep. Sara Jacobs, D-Calif., who serves on House Armed Services Committee and was among the elected officials who greeted the first lady at the airport, said she and Biden discussed priorities such as child care for military families during the visit. After her remarks, Biden stepped behind the dessert bar, where she chatted and took photos with guests while serving mini cupcakes and chocolate chip cookies. Annie Rafferty, ship navigator for the Gabrielle Giffords, took pictures with her friends and the first lady, flashing a hand signal of the alma mater they share Villanova University in Pennsylvania. "She is just so personable and genuine and authentic," Rafferty said of the first lady. "She's just so relatable as a teacher, a mother and grandmother." Amanda Ingalls-Brunzell posed with her 4-month-old daughter, Ellison Brunzell, dressed in a tiny navy-and-white sailor dress and matching bow. "It's just so great that she wants to work with military families," said Ingalls-Brunzell of the first lady. On Saturday, Biden is expected to visit the Steven A. Cohen Military Family Clinic at Veterans Village of San Diego in Oceanside to meet with health care providers and military families. 2023 The San Diego Union-Tribune. Visit sandiegouniontribune.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. Ukrainian Ambassador to Canada Yuliya Kovaliv has said that more than 514,000 Ukrainians received visas under the Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel (CUAET), and about 150,000 also entered Canada under this program. "From the first weeks of the full-scale Russian aggression, the Government of Canada introduced a special #CUAET visa program, aimed at facilitating visa procedures for Ukrainians seeking temporary asylum in Canada," Kovaliv wrote on Facebook. "At a meeting with Canadian Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Sean Fraser, I thanked for the program to support our citizens who temporarily found asylum in Canada, and we also discussed the prospects for the CUAET program and future steps to liberalize the visa regime," the ambassador said. John Paul Duncan (39) is accused of assaulting the two officers after trying to flee while he was in hospital for medical attention A man caught with condoms filled with more than 10,000 worth of cocaine headbutted one garda and bit anothers hand when he became violent after his arrest, it is alleged. John Paul Duncan (39) is accused of assaulting the two officers after trying to flee while he was in hospital for medical attention, having swallowed suspected drugs. He was refused bail at Dublin District court and remanded in custody. Duncan, of no fixed address, is charged with possession of drugs with intent to sell or supply, and assaulting gardai. The prosecuting garda objected to bail, citing the seriousness of the allegations and her belief that the accused was a flight risk. She said that the accused was arrested on suspicion of possession of drugs in the north city this week. He was caught in the act and gardai detained him for the purpose of a search under the Misuse of Drugs Act. He was brought back to Store Street garda station where it was alleged that condoms filled with 150g of cocaine, worth 10,500, was found on his person, the garda said. While he was in custody he told gardai he had swallowed some of the suspect items and required hospital attention. He was taken to hospital and attempted to flee on two occasions, the garda alleged. The second time, she said, Mr Duncan became extremely violent and headbutted another garda. She alleged that he had also bitten down on her index finger, ripping two pairs of gloves off my hand. The accused had been living in England and arrived in Ireland on January 28, she said. Since arriving, he had been staying in hotels before being taken into custody. We dont believe he will stay in Ireland to answer the charges, the garda said. Applying for bail, the accuseds barrister said Mr Duncan, who was presumed innocent, could stay with his sister at an address in Jobstown, Tallaght. He would abide by any bail conditions, she said. The garda said she was not consenting to any conditions and maintained her bail objection. She said the accused arrived in Ireland on a ferry, allegedly on a false document. Mr Duncan would say he had a valid passport and his sister could hand it in, his lawyer said. The Minister confirmed both inmates are legally recognised as female under the Gender Recognition Act, 2015 by the Irish Prison Service. Two prisoners who were born male and serving time for sexual offences are being kept in an Irish women's jail, it has emerged. The disclosure was made by acting Justice Minister Simon Harris in response to a Dail query from Aontu leader, Peadar Toibin. The Minister confirmed both inmates are legally recognised as female under the Gender Recognition Act, 2015 by the Irish Prison Service. As of January 31, last he said they are the only transgender prisoners in the system. But Mr Harris also revealed that the IPS is currently drafting a policy for the management of transgender prisoners which is expected to be finalised shortly. The Minister stated: "I am advised by the Director General of the Irish Prison Service that there are two prisoners known to the Irish Prison Service to be born male are being detained in a female prison for sexual offences. "The Prison Service is responsible for the safe and secure custody of all persons held in prison. "Where a court makes an order committing a person to a prison the Prison Service must accept that person into custody in whichever prison is specified by the court. "While all prisoners committed are accommodated in accordance with their legal gender and having regard to their safety and the safety of the wider prison population, it should be noted that Irish prisoners are not legally defined as male or female. He said each new prisoner is interviewed and subjected to risk assessment. Minister Harris added: The Governor may also make a recommendation on the appropriate placement within the prison system taking into consideration good order, security and operational issues, protection issues, available accommodation and the healthcare needs of the prisoner as well as the safety and security of other prisoners and staff." Maria Del Mar Lopez (43) pleaded guilty to criminal damage and assault. A WOMAN arrested after drawing penises in permanent marker on a hotel window assaulted a garda by spitting in her face. Maria Del Mar Lopez became abusive and also tried to hit the female officer after carrying out the graffiti at a hotel near a garda station. Judge Bryan Smyth granted her bail and adjourned the case for payment of 100 compensation for the damage. Del Mar Lopez (43) pleaded guilty to criminal damage and assault. A garda said he was called to the Beresford Hotel on Store Street on January 31. He was told the accused had drawing penises with a permanent marker at the front of the hotel. When she was questioned by the garda she became abusive and was arrested and taken to Store Street station. Del Mar Lopez spat forcibly in a gardas face, recklessly assaulting her, the court heard. As she was being brought to the cell area, she attempted to hit the garda and again spat towards her, the spit landing on the officers jumper. The accused, from Spain, had no previous convictions. She apologised profusely for the offences, was a very vulnerable young woman and there were concerns for her mental health, her solicitor said. There had been a number of episodes, things had escalated and she recognised that needed help. Judge Smyth granted bail on condition she stays away from the Beresford Hotel and staff. He adjourned the case to the end of this month. Just days prior, Bradley had called for weapons to be left at home as he joined an anti-migrant protest that took place in Finglas during the week Gangland criminal Wayne Bradley has been moaning again about migrants coming into Ireland. Taking to Facebook, Bradley, who was a close associate of slain gang boss Eamon The Don Dunne, shared a video of conservative Swedish MEP Charlie Weimers addressing Michael Martin. In the video, Weimers asks Martin if mass amnesties for illegal migrants by a EU member state is going to alleviate or worsen migration pressure on Europe? Sharing the video, Bradley said: Who wants are (sic) country a no go zone listen to this and Martin got told this last year and still wont address it. Just days prior, Bradley had called for weapons to be left at home as he joined an anti-migrant protest that took place in Finglas during the week. He posted a series of messages on his Facebook account ahead of the demonstration, warning those attending the planned protest in his native Finglas not to bring weapons as it will ruin what we started". Today's protest as to be peaceful a show in numbers is all we need, he wrote. The media have knowledge of it and that's what we set out to do. We can't have weapons of any kind it will ruin what we started. Alan and Wayne Bradley There will be women and children at this so everyone stay calm." Wayne Bradley was released from prison in 2016 after serving a sentence for conspiring to steal nearly 1m from a cash-in-transit van in a heist organised by Dunne. Alongside his brother Alan Fatpuss Bradley, Wayne and other gang members pleaded guilty to conspiring to steal cash from Chubb Ireland in November 2007 at Tesco, Celbridge, Co. Kildare. The Bradleys were previously targeted by the Criminal Assets Bureau and were served with demands for 362,000 in unpaid taxes and penalties between them. On his social media account this week, Wayne Bradley also claimed that he, and others in the community, had come together to protect local women from foreign men. Bradley tweeted that: Papers doing there best to discourage me Im standing up for my country calling names I welcome refugees running from war but no women or children are coming its all men unvetted and dumped into our community Im not racist we cant houses for are own we have no room. Meanwhile, associates of Hutch gang members were spotted at a separate gathering near Sherriff Street in the north inner city during the week. They joined one of a number of an anti-immigration protests across Dublin, including one that took place outside Store Street Garda Station in Mountjoy, Dublin 1. While hundreds of protestors congregated outside the station with signs and caused delays to the Luas Red Line service at Store Street and Busaras. Garda public order vehicles and uniformed officers maintained a presence throughout the night. Gardai are also investigating a suspected arson attack on a vacant building in nearby Sherrard Street, after it was widely circulated on social media that it was targeted as refugees were to be housed there. However, local TD Gary Gannon said the Department of Children and Integration had no plans to accommodate refugees or asylum seekers in the building. Gardai were alerted to the blaze at Rawlton House, a former boys school on Sherrard Street, in Dublins inner city. No injuries were reported although investigations into what gardai described as suspected criminal damage by fire are ongoing. Rumours had been going around that it was to be allocated to refugees, but the department itself knew nothing about it, Deputy Gannon said. I had previously made representations regarding the building, saying it was unsuitable to house people there. According RTE, permission was granted by Dublin City Council to CDK Properties Limited to develop apartments at the site in 2021. A spokesperson for the Department of Children and Integration told RTE that the building is not contracted by the department and has not been examined for use to accommodate refugees or international protection applicants. Gardai have appealed to witnesses or anyone who has information relevant to the incident to contact them. Gardai are investigating a suspected criminal damage by fire incident that occurred at approximately 5:40pm on Monday, January 30, 2023 at a vacant dwelling in the Sherrard Street area of Dublin 1, gardai said. Local fire services quickly extinguished the fire. No injuries were reported. Investigations into this incident are ongoing. Anyone with information that can assist gardai with this investigation are asked to contact Fitzgibbon Street Garda Station on 01 6668400, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any garda station. Sunday World At least 41 vehicles that were stolen last month have not been recovered. Gardai are struggling to deal with a nationwide spate of car thefts, with up to 20 vehicles being stolen on some days last month. The value of the unrecovered vehicles, along with the cost of insurance and garda resources in January alone, is estimated at up to 2m. The cars are being targeted by gangs who then bring them to chop shops. There they are broken up for parts that are distributed to criminals who export them in shipping containers. These figures do not include the estimated 100-plus thefts last month of imported Japanese cars. They are favoured by so-called joyriders because the vehicles do not have immobilisers, making them easy targets for thieves to hotwire. Analysis of the reported incidents suggests thieves are specifically targeting Toyota Vitz and Toyota Aqua models. In a crime prevention statement last week, gardai in Limerick said the advice to motorists who own a Japanese import is to add another layer of security, such as a steering wheel lock or a robust chain. The issue with the Japanese imported cars is a very serious one, but in general terms these are being mostly stolen by young fellas intent on joyriding, a source said. Its a problem all over the country, but hotspots have been identified in the last few weeks. You are talking about Balbriggan, Blanchardstown, Ballyfermot, Tallaght and Cork city, where a lot of these thefts happen. But it is an increasing problem, all along the Dublin commuter belt and now Limerick in the last couple of weeks and Co Meath in particular as well. Often these cars are used for joyriding and then either abandoned or burnt out so that the vehicles are classified as recovered. Its the unrecovered cars that have fallen into the hands of the organised crime gangs. As part of their investigations, detectives have identified a gang who have been selling stolen car parts from high-end vehicles in Ireland to the Russian market. Theres a major global shortage of car parts in general, but the war in Ukraine has compounded matters for motorists in Russia because of the sanctions imposed on that country, a source said. On a European level, an organised crime gang based in Lithuania has been identified as providing stolen car parts to dealers based in Russia. This gang is very active in Ireland. Figures obtained by the Irish Independent show at least 41 vehicles that were stolen last month have not been recovered. These include high-end Audis, BMWs and a Porsche, stolen from locations as diverse as Co Sligo and Co Wexford. More than likely, these vehicles are being chopped up by criminal gangs for export. Some might reappear but most wont, the source added. Youre taking about a total cost of around 2m. An analysis of the 41 vehicle thefts shows keys were stolen from the victims on 18 occasions. This was normally carried out during a fishing burglary, in which thieves use specially-adapted rods or long bamboo canes to snag keys left on hallway tables. They are then able to steal cars without triggering alarms or breaking into homes. In the other cases, thieves are using technology to clone key fobs. Criminals with the right equipment can record the signal from a fob, even if it is hanging up or in a drawer inside the house. Once they have copied it, the criminals can simply open the car doors and drive away. The airbags alone from some of these high-end vehicles are worth many thousands of euro. Bonnets and doors are also very popular they fetch big money on the black market, the source said. Multiple garda sources said the forces ability to tackle the problem is hindered by not there being insufficient qualified gardai to go after the gangs. They said that even qualified drivers are told to stand down when involved in vehicle chases because of public safety concerns. These lads are getting away with it every day of the week, one source said. While many of the stolen cars are not being targeted by the organised crime gangs, in some areas joyriding and associated offences are out of all control, as witnessed recently in high-profile incidents in west Dublin. There is a wider problem here and it is historical in nature, a source said. Past experience of organised crime has shown that lads who are into robbing cars often for the craic of it all become serious players in organised crime later. Is a whole new generation being bred that way? Edgardo Greco appeared in a French newspaper in 2021 to promote his restaurant Italian mafia fugitive Edgardo Greco has been arrested in France after 16 years on the run. The convicted murderer, who is suspected of being part of the Ndrangheta syndicate, spent years operating a pizza restaurant in the French city of Saint-Etienne. Greco, who used the alias Paolo Dimitrio, appeared in Le Progres newspaper in 2021 to promote his new business, Caffe Rossini Ristorante. He was arrested on Thursday following an investigation carried out by French and Italian authorities. Greco escaped from police custody in 2006 and has been on the run ever since. He was sentenced to life in prison for the murder of brothers Stefano and Giuseppe Bartolomeo who were beaten to death in Cosenza in January 1991. The Carabinieri say that the bodies were dissolved in acid. He was also sentenced in absentia for the attempted murder of another. Originating in the Italian region of Calabria, the 'Ndrangheta is considered the largest and most powerful mafia group in Italy, with activities on every continent and strong links to cocaine trafficking from South America to Europe. Jurgen Stock, Secretary General of Interpol said of the arrest: No matter what means they deploy to spend quiet days abroad, the fugitives will not be able to escape prosecution forever. Throughout the world, dedicated members of law enforcement will always ensure that justice is upheld. It comes just weeks after Cosa Nostra boss Matteo Messina Denaro was captured in his hometown of Sicily after 30 years. He was sentenced in absentia to a life term for his role in the 1992 murders of anti-mafia prosecutors Giovanni Falcone and Paolo Borsellino. He also faces a life sentence for his role in bomb attacks in Florence, Rome and Milan which killed 10 people the following year. Police said in September 2022 that he was still able to issue commands relating to the way the mafia was run in the area around the western Sicilian city of Trapani, his regional stronghold, despite his long disappearance. Belfast native Stephen Dempsey (60) was the unsuspecting victim of a random attack by Tedi Fanti Hagos (27) in July 2021. A man who launched a fatal and ferocious knife attack on an Irishman in London has been detained indefinitely in a secure hospital under the Mental Health Act. Belfast native Stephen Dempsey (60) was the unsuspecting victim of a random assault by Tedi Fanta Hagos (27) on 1 July 2021. Stephen, who had lived in Essex since he was a child, was out sightseeing in Oxford Circus when he was attacked by Hagos at around 8pm. Two men tried to intervene, striking the attacker with their skateboards in an attempt to stop him. Stephen was rushed to hospital after suffering critical stab wounds, though later passed away from his injuries. London police officers quickly arrested Hagos, but have never been able to establish a motive for why he randomly set upon Stephen Dempsey. Hagos, of Ravenhill, Swansea, was this week detained indefinitely in a secure hospital under the Mental Health Act. "My heart goes out to Stephen's family, especially his mother, who lost him in such terrible circumstances, said Detective Chief Inspector Geoff Grogan, the senior investigating officer. While I know there is precious little comfort in the wake of this awful story, I hope they will take solace knowing that people tried to help Stephen when he so needed it. He added: "Those two brave members of the public should know how greatly their actions were and are appreciated by Stephen's family. "The Judge formally recognised their actions and two other member of the public with commendations for their bravery. "I would also like to thank my team of detectives, who were absolutely determined to obtain Stephen's family justice." Jade Cooney signed up and paid a deposit after meeting a surgeon at a roadshow in a Dublin hotel last summer Jade Cooney said she is still recovering months after the surgery in Turkey A Dublin woman who travelled to Turkey for cosmetic surgery has said it ruined my life after developing severe complications and sepsis. Jade Cooney (22), from Drimnagh, travelled to Turkey in October last year for liposuction, a tummy tuck and a breast lift. I needed 10 bags of blood in surgery. I woke up in ICU and I was in so much pain, my whole body was uncontrollably shaking, she said. Ms Cooney had a gastric sleeve in January 2021 and was undergoing the surgery to remove excess skin from the fat loss. She signed up and paid a deposit after meeting a surgeon at a roadshow in a Dublin hotel last summer. The surgery, flights and accommodation cost 5,000 in total. They came over here and so many people were there and signed up... I thought it sounds like he knows what hes doing, she said. The next month, Ms Cooney travelled to Turkey. On the morning of her surgery she was told her doctor had been changed after seeing another name on her wristband. When I got over there, they changed my surgeon after I had booked in with the surgeon I had met in Dublin and was comfortable with. I only noticed on my wristband, they didnt even tell me, she said. Ms Cooney was told by hospital staff that if she still wanted the doctor she booked with, she would have to wait until Saturday, and went ahead with the surgery on that Thursday morning. You go into the theatre, scoot onto the bed and you are awake when they strap you down with leather straps on your wrists, she said. I started to panic. After 11 hours of surgery Ms Cooney said she woke up in the intensive care unit. I was only meant to be gone for six hours and I was 11 and a half hours gone, she said. An hour later they brought me back to my room and my whole body was in agony. I couldnt move and they put me in a wheelchair... I was screaming in pain. They put a blanket over me and gave me paracetamol. The next day Ms Cooney had a blood transfusion and stayed in the hospital for six days. On the second day of recovery, hospital staff told her she could be discharged to her hotel room. They wanted to send me to a hotel, and I kept saying no, I wanted to stay in the hospital. They wanted me two days after surgery to go to the hotel and that night I took a turn for the worst and was bedbound, she said. Ms Cooney flew home on her own after six days in Turkey on a flight that the company organised. I had to cry for a wheelchair in the airport, she said. After her return to Ireland she developed sepsis and was referred to the Emergency Department in St Jamess Hospital. St James's Hospital. Photo: Mark Condren I was bleeding so bad every day and had to change my dressings four times a day. I went to DubDoc when it started to smell, she said. I had to sit in A&E for 18 hours. Four months on, Ms Cooney is still recovering from her botched surgery and her wound dressings are changed twice per week in her local health centre. In my middle section they cut very, very deep so it wasnt healing. I still have two holes on the breast and on the stomach, she said. My stomach isnt flat, Im swollen and I have a scar from one side of my hip around to the other. I feel worse. I dont even have a belly button, its a straight line, she said. Ms Cooney said for people considering travelling to Turkey for surgery, dont. At least if you are over here you have something to fall back on. When you are in another country its so hard because you have no one that you know, no one speaks English when you are trying to express how much pain you are in. I would not recommend it, you just want to come home. My body is worse, I have a huge medical debt, Im still paying off the surgery and medical bills here. I dont want to get anything done ever again, she added. On the advice of her doctors here in Ireland, Ms Cooney is now leaving the wounds to heal naturally. They are trying to let me heal naturally because its so far into the skin, it needs to heal, she said. It has ruined my life between everything, mentally, physically. I wish I never even thought of going. Ms Cooney asked for a refund after the surgery but was told she had signed a consent form. She is still requesting her medical file. It comes as two more Navy ships have been taken out of operation due to staff shortages A seizure of cocaine in the Dutch port of Rotterdam An ex-garda chief has said that cuts to the Irish navy will inevitably allow South American cartels to accelerate operations to move cocaine into Europe. The Irish Examiner has reported that ex-Garda assistant commissioner Michael OSullivan has warned of the potential danger. Because of the geographical position of Ireland, its the most westerly point of Europe and covers the North Atlantic, theres no other navy that can get a vessel as fast into the North Atlantic as the Irish navy, he said. Mr OSullivan stepped down as executive director of the Maritime Analysis and Operations Centre, Narcotics (MAOC-N) early last year. Ive been at meetings and intelligence came in and you needed eyes and ears in the North Atlantic, he said, explaining that the Irish navy could scramble in a matter of hours. You needed a vessel, with radar, to try and pick out your suspect vessel. Thats the starting point of any investigation to get sight of the vessel. Those coordinates are not going to last forever, so the faster you can get a vessel out there the better. If it takes too long, the vessels gone, he added, saying that Navies in Western Europe are the eyes and ears of law enforcement. The first line of defence against international drugs trafficking from South America are the naval services and the Irish navy are that in the North Atlantic. The Irish navy are very professional, very dedicated, and very motivated. But now they have four ships, half of what they had. Mr OSullivan added that cartels will captitalise on it. There are guys in Colombia who are looking for every angle and every way, ships, planes, and submarines, to send drugs over the Atlantic. They will go to areas of least resistance and if they see a gap on the North Atlantic route they will send vessels there. The Irish navy doesnt have the resources and that creates problems. Do I fear the fact the reduction of naval vessels patrolling off the Irish coast will present opportunities? Yes, I think so. It comes as Tanaiste and Foreign Affairs and Defence Minister Micheal Martin told the Dail that two more Navy ships were to be placed into operational reserve because there is enough staff to man them. It brings the total number of ships out of action to four. U.S. Attorney General announces first transfer of forfeited funds seized from Russian oligarch to go toward Ukrainian aid media U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland announced the first transfer of the forfeited funds seized from Russian oligarch Konstantin Malofeyev, the funds will go toward Ukrainian aid, CNN has reported. "Today, I am announcing that I have authorized the first ever transfer of forfeited Russian assets for use in Ukraine. These forfeited assets follow the announcement I made last April of the indictment of designated Russian oligarch Konstantin Malofeyev, on charges of sanctions evasions," Garland said during an appearance with Ukrainian Prosecutor General Andriy Kostin at the Justice Department. In June, millions were seized from a U.S. bank account belonging to Malofeyev, whom the United States announced sanctions against in April "for having acted or purported to act for or on behalf of, directly or indirectly" the Russian government, CNN quoted the Treasury Department. "The forfeited funds will next be transferred to the State Department to support the people of Ukraine. Russian war criminals will find no refuge in the United States," the U.S. Attorney General said. The Prosecutor General of Ukraine thanked the United States "for its decisive efforts and support." Scores of flights to and from the facility were delayed as a result Significant disruption was caused at Dublin Airport this evening after a drone was spotted on the airfield. A spokesperson for the airports authority, daa, confirmed that flight operations had to be suspended for almost 10 minutes. Scores of flights to and from the facility were delayed as a result and four services due to land in Dublin had to be diverted to Belfast and Shannon. The diverted flights are: 19:00: Ryanair flight FR113 from London Gatwick, diverted to Shannon. 19:15 Ryanair flight FR7763 from Alicante, diverted to Shannon. 19:20 Ryanair flight FR5150 from Glasgow, diverted to Shannon. 19:25 Ryanair flight FR7055 from Malaga, diverted to Belfast. "Flight operations at Dublin Airport were suspended for safety reasons for a very short period (less than 10 minutes) this evening (Friday) following a confirmed drone sighting on the airfield. "It is illegal to fly drones within five kilometres of an airport in the State. The safety and security of airport users is daas key priority at all times and staff at Dublin Airport and An Garda Siochana remain vigilant in relation to drone activity in the vicinity of the airport, a daa spokesperson said. It comes as Dublin Airport has warned of high demand for parking as more than 300,000 passengers are set to travel through the airport over the St Brigids bank holiday weekend. It has issued advice to passengers jetting off over the first bank holiday of the year to prepare for security in advance and arrive at the airport early. Passengers departing from Dublin Airport over the coming days are reminded to arrive at their terminal two hours before a short-haul flight and three hours prior to a long-haul flight. Additional time of up to one hour is recommended for passengers checking in a bag at the airport. Over the five days between Friday and Monday, around 160,000 people will fly out of Dublin Airport, with around 150,000 due to arrive. The airport has also advised passengers to consider public transport or a taxi to get to and from the airport as parking has already sold out in the Red car park. If people think theyre going to get away with it then theyre much more likely to do it. Nearly 8,000 reports of welfare fraud were made to the Department of Social Protection last year. Newstalk reports that just over 80 million in social welfare payments were reclaimed by the department from around 115,000 people in 2022. That sum was made up in large amount by recovered payments from the state pension and jobseekers allowance. In total, 7,792 reports of welfare fraud were received, with over 80 pc of them being referred on for criminal investigation. Very often the overpayment of welfare social protection payments can happen for a variety of reasons, barrister Fine Gael Senator Barry Ward told Newstalk. It is sometimes a mistake on behalf of the recipient or it is sometimes done deliberately in a fraudulent way. When that happens there needs to be a criminal prosecution to ensure that the integrity of the system remains, he added. Because if people think theyre going to get away with it then theyre much more likely to do it. Four people were jailed for welfare fraud last year, with a total of 123 criminal cases being referred to the Chief State Solicitors Office. Newstalk reports that of those 123 cases, 66 were finalised in court with four people jailed for the crime. The truly shocking story was made into a dramatized four-part mini-series The Secret starring local actor James Nesbitt Banged-up bible-bashing killers Colin Howell and Kristoff Alauya want to walk back into court but for very different reasons, we can reveal. Jailhouse sources in Maghaberry Prison have revealed the deadly duo who have become unlikely prison pals due to their religious beliefs have deluded plans to get back before a judge. We can reveal driller killer Howell is furious with a seven-year-old TV dramatization of his heinous crimes while murdering rapist Alauya is convinced hes going to get an appeal and be exonerated! Last year we reveal the pair had become a dominant force in the prison amongst the lifers often taking new inmates under their wing and trying to bring them round to their way of thinking about God. But they fell out, somewhat hilariously last autumn, over a scratched R Kelly CD which Howell had lent to Alauya. Now the pair of twisted killers have deluded hopes of getting into a courtroom expecting sympathy and its driving fellow inmates crazy. They are driving everyone mad the inmates, the prison wardens and anyone else forced to listen to their demented ramblings, said a prison source. Killer Kristoff Alauya Nigerian immigrant Alauya is 38-years-old and is serving a minimum 22-year life sentence for the rape and murder of 38-year-old Belfast mum-of-one Grace Moore in 2006. Hes telling everyone he didnt do it and that the police set him up and that hes going to appeal it and clear his name, said a jail source. Kristoff is completely mad if he thinks he has any hope of getting an appeal. He still hasnt accepted what he has done. Alauya initially denied the charges of murder and rape but after hearing two days of evidence he pleaded guilty however he is telling people in prison he didnt really want to plead guilty. At his trial in 2009 it emerged he tried to claim asylum after arriving in Dublin and that while there, had married an Irish woman, become addicted to cocaine, fathered four children by four different women and had attacked and robbed two taxi drivers at gunpoint. Colin Howell murdered his wife Lesley and his lover Hazel Stewarts husband, Trevor Buchanan, in May 1991 in what became one of the most infamous crimes to ever take place in Northern Ireland. Police had treated the double murder as suicide and closed the file until Howell walked into a police station and confessed 18 years later giving evidence against his former lover and co-conspirator Hazel Stewart in the process. The truly shocking story was made into a dramatized four-part mini-series starring local actor James Nesbitt, who played the role of sleazy dentist Howell. The series was brought back into the public domain when it appeared on Netflix last year. Sources in Maghaberry say Howell only got to lay eyes on the series for the first time recently and apparently he was less than impressed. Colin Howell hadnt seen The Secret when it came out years ago, so he had no idea what it was like, said a source. He got to see it recently for the first time and hes absolutely furious. He has been talking about taking legal action over the way he was portrayed. He doesnt understand that while the show is based on his story its a dramatized TV programme and not everything had to be exactly what happened so hes wasting his time with any legal case. Hazel Stewart Hes particularly angry that hes made out to be a complete monster while Hazel Stewart is made out to be some kind of weak-willed woman who was bullied and scared of him. Colin Howell is still so arrogant and although he confessed to the murders he believes Hazel Stewart was much more onboard with his plan to kill their spouses than The Secret depicts. Its understood Howell actually got to see The Secret on free-to-air Irish public TV channel TG4. He was genuinely horrified by it when he watched it, said the source. He really believes it was unfair to him. More likely he was just horrified at seeing his own murders being carried out its bound to have brought back some bad memories. Howell, whos 63, is serving a minimum life sentence of 21 years for the double murder plus another five-and-a-half years for a string of sickening sex attacks on a number of women. Howell and Alauya had formed an unlikely alliance and used their veteran prison status to exert their influence on new prisoners. They see themselves as some kind of higher authority in the prison, said a source. Howell is known inside as The Prophet while Kristoff has earned the nickname Midnight for some reason. Sources told us last year how the pair had become an unlikely jailhouse power-couple who seek out and target new inmates at Braid House and bombard with religious teachings. When Alauya was jailed in 2009 at Belfast Crown Court Mr Justice Weir told him he could find no evidence of remorse on his part for the gruesome killing. The judge said that he found it impossible to comprehend the fact that after raping and killing Ms Moore, he ransacked her home and put personal items into bags to take with him. Grace Moore was the mother of former Miss Northern Ireland Lori Moore who was just 16-years-old when she tragically discovered her body in November 2006. During his trial it horrific details emerged showing Grace had been the victim of a savage attack from twisted Alauya, who was then aged 23. The young mum was stabbed, strangled and raped in her Suffolk home in Belfast by Alauya after she invited him back after meeting him in a city centre night spot. At the time of the murder Alauya was on the run from the authorities south of the border where he had been due to be sentenced for two violent robberies. When initially jailed Alauya carried an horrendous attitude with him into the jail boasting he would kill again when he got out. But sources told us that in recent years and having hooked up with Colin Howell he has since seen the light and having suffered a number of vicious jailhouse assaults, he appears to have turned to God and mellowed. Ginoi Muntean was charged in 2018 in connection with a robbery at an antiques shop in Portrush A suspected armed robber who jumped bail in Northern Ireland four years ago is back behind bars. Ginoi Muntean was charged in 2018 in connection with a robbery at an antiques shop in Portrush but did a runner to the Republic when released on bail. However, the 26-year-olds luck finally ran out last week when he was arrested at a Northern Ireland ferry terminal as he was travelling to England to visit his sister who has cancer. Muntean and a 16-year-old boy were charged with stealing jewellery from Dunluce Street Antiques shop in Portrush on November 16, 2018. Muntean was also charged with possessing a knife with intent to commit robbery. Police said at the time that no one was injured during the robbery. Muntean, who is believed to be originally from Romania, and his co-accused appeared before Ballymena Magistrates Court a few days after the robbery. They were both remanded in custody. However, after several months on remand, Muntean was released on bail. As part of his bail conditions, he was required to live at an address in Northern Ireland but did not do so. However, police finally caught up with him at the ferry terminal last week. After being arrested, he was brought before Coleraine Magistrates Court. Munteans solicitor told the court the defendant was married with two young children and lives in Tipperary. The solicitor said Muntean spent four months on remand in connection with the Portrush robbery before being granted bail. After being released on bail, the solicitor said Muntean claimed he had heard nothing else about the case and thought he had been sentenced and the proceedings were effectively over. So, what has happened thereafter, is that his sister who resides in England is unfortunately ill with cancer, the solicitor said. So, he set off travelling to England to visit her and was promptly arrested at the ferry. The solicitor said Munteans wife and sister are in England and are trying to secure a Northern Ireland address for him. Whether that will significantly impact his prospects of bail I simply dont know. But at this point of time I only have his address in the Republic of Ireland where he resides with his wife and two children. The judge said that in terms of Muntean being again released on bail, the court would require a very significant cash surety. He was uncontactable very quickly after being released, the judge said. Given the history of this case, there is no guarantee that this court will be persuaded again to grant bail. I granted bail once before and as a result of that he has been uncontactable for the best part of two and a half years coming up to three years. So, I will have to take that into consideration. The judge added: This is a case where there is a multi-jurisdictional element to this. We have the police in England, the police here and the police in the Republic involved in this case. Mr Muntean is very mobile and again that is an issue that is going to have to be addressed before bail is granted. The solicitor said the proposed bail package would not just include a Northern Ireland address for Muntean. I propose a bail package that would include other elements that might be able to in some way address the courts concerns, but I would not be in a position to advance that matter today, he said. I was anticipating a significant cash surety, surrender of travel documents and possibly even his wifes travel documents as well. Muntean was remanded in custody to appear before the court again next week for a bail application. During the hearing, a representative for the Public Prosecution Service said the teenager charged along with Muntean in connection with the 2018 Portrush robbery had also absconded after being released on bail. Were in good company with all the Irish ones. Its going to be some night, says Ross. James Martin with dad Ivan and mum Suzanne on holiday in Spain this week PACEMAKER PRESS BELFAST 28/01/2023 DUP Leader Jeffrey Donaldson during their joint funeral in Bangor Abbey on Saturday Alex and Ann Easton, who were both aged in their eighties, died after a blaze broke out at their home in the Dellmount Park area of Bangor on Monday morning. Photo Pacemaker James Martin with dad Ivan and mum Suzanne on holiday in Spain this week James Martin with dad Ivan and mum Suzanne on holiday in Spain this week James Martin with dad Ivan and mum Suzanne on holiday in Spain this week James Martin with dad Ivan and mum Suzanne on holiday in Spain The team behind An Irish Goodbye will show Hollywood how to party at the Oscars. The celebrations have already started after the short film earned an Academy Award nomination, the only short from the UK and Ireland. Its also made history with Belfasts James Martin as the first lead actor with Downs syndrome in a nominated film. He broke out the Bucks Fizz with parents Ivan and Suzanne on holiday in Spain last week after the news was announced and hes already planning his LA trip with co-star Seamus OHara. Theyll be on the red carpet with filmmakers Ross White and Tom Berkeley who are already planning their after party. Were in good company with all the Irish ones. Its going to be some night, says Ross. James and Seamus play estranged brothers brought together by their mothers unexpected death, who agree to fulfil her bucket list before selling the family farm. Paddy Jenkins is the parish priest in the 30-minute movie, which has also earned a Bafta nomination. The Belfast actor, who turns 31 on the day of the Oscars on March 12 says the nomination is already a win. I feel like Ive won already, he says. It was nice to be asked to go over to the Baftas and then LA came along. Just to be nominated is fantastic. If it wins everyone is going to go crazy, and I mean everyone, and it will be nice to bring it back to Northern Ireland. If it doesnt, Ill enjoy the experience. James, whos starred in Ups and Downs with Susan Lynch and Marcella with Anna Friel, has his next TV project completed and hopes the nomination will open more doors. The Mencap ambassador also works in Starbucks and Scalini in Belfast and hopes he can encourage other people with disabilities into acting. James Martin with dad Ivan and mum Suzanne on holiday in Spain It doesnt matter what kind of disability you have as long as everyone does what they want and enjoys what they want. I think you should do something to include everyone. Id love to do more acting and I think this will help. James will be at the LA ceremony with co-star Seamus as guests of Ross and Tom, who wrote and directed An Irish Goodbye. The pair, both 27, met at uni and started writing in late 2019. Their first short film, Roy won Harry Potters David Bradley a best actor gong at the British Short Film Awards. The filmmakers will get their first taste of Hollywood glamour next month at the nominees lunch, which will include Irish talent Colin Farrell, Brendan Gleeson, Kerry Condon, Barry Keoghan and Paul Mescal. It will be Steven Spielberg and Michelle Yeoh and Jamie Lee Curtis and me from East Belfast at the nominees lunch while we all have our prawn cocktail. Its just bonkers, says Ross. Then well be back for the Baftas and back over to LA about two weeks before the ceremony. James Martin with Anna Friel in Marcella James and Seamus will be our guests on the red carpet, and I think James would be going whether he had a ticket or not. Well get Paddy Jenkins and our friends and families over for a big auld party afterwards. Its going to be the best do. The pair will be expected to start campaigning for their film, but Ross says they wont go overboard. Well do a wee bit of campaigning, but well mix that in with enjoying the moment. If you do too much you miss the moment and were just going to soak it up. Everyone will watch the final five films again and pick their favourite, and Im just going to take a big deep breath. Weve all worked really hard and Im looking forward to being with the guys there and taking the pressure off. James Martin stars in Oscar nominated short film, An Irish Goodbye. After shooting on a shoestring around Northern Ireland he says the films reception has been overwhelming. Truly not even in a modest way did we think it would do so well. Its been a constant source of surprise and gone above and beyond what we expected. When we were shooting in Templepatrick I didnt think wed end up at the Dolby Theatre in LA on the red carpet and getting the news about the Baftas was a source of complete joy. He says James has been a driving force in the films success, and an inspiration. Anyone who meets James falls in love with him. Hes the most charismatic and funny person. Hes really keen to get the message across the just because you are different or have different abilities it shouldnt stop you doing what you love, says Ross. The couple, who got married in 2019, were previously told by specialists they could not conceive naturally RTE football pundit and author Richie Sadlier has announced the birth of he and his wife Fionas first child. The former Ireland international took to Instagram to share the happy news. Mr Sadlier said he was delighted to share the news that Fiona had given birth to the couples gorgeous little son, named Sam. Parents, at last. I wont even try and put into words how incredible this past week has been for us, but for now, just wanna say a huge thanks for all the lovely messages and well-wishes we received throughout the pregnancy, he said. It was lovely knowing there were so many people rooting for this chapter of our story to have a happy ending. The biggest thanks of all goes to Fiona for never giving up hope that one day wed feel this way. The couple, who got married in 2019, were previously told by specialists they could not conceive naturally but Sadlier took to social media last August to share the joyous news that he and his wife Fiona had conceived naturally. At the time, Mr Sadlier said the couple had endured a lot of fertility complications to conceive naturally. Four years after being told we couldnt conceive naturally, and umpteen fertility consultations, scans, injections, embryo transfers, tears, hugs, and negative pregnancy tests later Im bloody delighted to share the news that my amazing wife @fionaward25 is now 15 weeks pregnant . Naturally! "I know everyone finds their own way through challenges like this, but we chose to speak openly to friends and family about what we were going through from day one, so we got their support when we needed it and the space when we asked for it. Richie Sadlier. Picture: Ruth Medjber So grateful for all for the encouragement, support, solidarity and love we received along the way, and big hugs to anyone out there currently travelling the same path, he said. Mr Sadlier previously encouraged couples who are struggling to conceive to talk about it with family and friends. Speaking on RTEs The Late Late Show in September, Richie said: We were overwhelmed by the response, but I got so many private messages from people who said I'm on that journey or I'm about to embark on it and I'd always ask them if they had told their friends of family. And so many people replied with no, no they couldnt tell the lads or they only told some family. "But we wouldn't have gotten through the last few years today if we didn't tell our family and friends and get their support. The couple received countless messages congratulating them, with many of Irelands best-known faces and sport stars sending messages of love. Brian ODriscoll, Shay Given, Richie Towell, Muireann OConnell and Rosanna Davison were among those extending their well wishes to the couple. The Coromandel is facing yet another long weekend of cancelled hospitality bookings. Last weekend, it had a subdued Auckland Anniversary weekend due to flooding in Auckland and the Coromandel itself being cut off due to the wet weather's impact on its roads. In the weeks prior, weather events such as ex-tropical Cyclone Hale also left the normally booming tourist hotspot eerily quiet. Yesterday, Thames-Coromandel mayor Len Salt declared a pre-emptive declaration of emergency. "We have an unfolding situation with vulnerable communities, vulnerable people and an emerging situation where we have the potential for land slips and further erosion that we need to manage." As this footage shows, slips are still happening on State Highway 25A in the Coromandel. You can see how unstable and wet the ground isthis is a good example of a slip in action, and how a site can continue to be affected after significant damage has already occurred. pic.twitter.com/2ZWWp1rUxX Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency news (@WakaKotahi_news) February 2, 2023 With the myriad of weather events, Anchor Lodge manager Sue Gill-Devereux says the hospitality sector has barely functioned in Coromandel since Christmas. Waitangi weekend looks to be nearly as quiet. Sue says she was initially fully booked, but "now I've had probably 80 to 90 per cent of bookings cancel or postpone". She believes it would reach closer to 100 per cent cancelled or postponed bookings. Sue says other moteliers she has spoken to in the Coromandel are also empty. The Coromandel has suffered so extensively, they are not making money this summer, she says. "Our summer season is what gets us through until the next spring summer season." They need to work hard at this time of year to make enough to keep them going for 12 months, she says. Hospitality New Zealand chief executive Julie White says for moteliers it's important to make hay while the sun shined. But when the sun doesn't come out, it means they can't make revenue, she says. Julie says some members she has spoken to in the region are reconsidering their future. "It's all just too hard after Covid and some are thinking about should they permanently shut." Many hospitality businesses have previously reported that this summer is the first they were expecting bookings to resemble normality after Covid restrictions. With a huge landslide cutting into State Highway 25A, a major highway in and out of Coromandel, the additional impact it has on hospitality also remains to be seen. -RNZ. Govt of Ukraine decides to introduce Delta system in Defense Forces Ministry of Defense On the proposal of Defense Minister Oleksiy Reznikov, the government of Ukraine has decided to introduce the Delta system in the Defense Forces, the press service of the Defense Ministry has reported. The Cabinet of Ministers adopted the resolution on February 4 at its meeting. Delta is a situational awareness platform created by the Center for Innovation and Development of Defense Technologies of the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine. The Defense Ministry Innovation Center is constantly improving the Delta platform and adding new functionality that gives our military a significant advantage over the enemy, the ministry said. "In addition to using the platform by the military, the government allowed Delta to be placed in the cloud outside of Ukraine. This will protect the system from enemy missile and cyber attacks," the Defense Ministry said. Current Print Subscribers will be prompted to either login to their current site user account or to create a new one. A confirmation email will be sent when a new user account is created, which must be confirmed within three days in order to provide uninterrupted online access through your Print Subscription. Once the email address is confirmed please provide your Account Number to activate your Print Subscription Service. The Taos News delivered to your Taos County address every week for a full year! We offer our lowest mail rates to zip codes in the county. Click Here to See if you Qualify. Plan includes unlimited website access and e-edition print replica online. Your auto pay plan will be conveniently renewed at the end of the subscription period. You may cancel at anytime. Germany handed over nine generators with a capacity of 440 kW to 1,000 kW to Kharkiv region to connect heating units, German Ambassador to Ukraine Anka Feldhusen said on Twitter on Friday. "Germany donated 9 generators with a capacity of 440 kW to 1,000 kW to Kharkiv region. They will be used to connect boilers and heating units. I am glad that, thanks to government funding, the Federal Agency for Technical Relief will improve the situation in the regions," she wrote. stanjohn123 Senior - BHPian Join Date: Oct 2008 Location: TN 75 Posts: 1,340 Thanked: 1,697 Times View My Garage DIY: Fixing my Mom's broken food processor with 3D Printing I still went searching for the spare in all major stores and service centers around my locality hoping that I may get lucky by finding an Indian model with the same coupler design. But alas, one thing I learned is that luck is never on my side, but that obviously will not deter me from finding a solution. I suddenly thought one day, why don't I try printing a 3D model of the coupler and try using that. So I started searching for shops with 3D printers and 2 shops came up. FABLABS and X-ON Computers , both situated in Trivandrum. Now to do 3D print of the coupler, they will need an STL file, which I did download from the Internet and gave it to them. You can check out the file here He printed the Coupler and this is how the new one looks compared to the old one. The new coupler is made from a Nylon material which is hard but slightly flexible as well. One difference between the 3D printed coupler and old coupler was that, the new coupler was missing grooves inside the portion which meets with the shaft. The shaft has matching grooves. So to create the grooves, I heated the shaft for 40-60 seconds under a candle and just forced it inside the coupler and the grooves were created. Next I attached the coupler kit back into the bowl. There are totally 3 washers. 2 big washer come on top, first you will have to insert the big metal washer on the shaft followed by a big paper washer and then insert the shaft in the bowl. Tilt the bowl upside down holding the coupler shaft and drop the small metal washer on the shaft and then push the new coupler onto the shaft till it fits snugly. So after installing the shaft kit in the bowl, it's time to fit it on the food processor and check if it's working. No surprises here, just another successful DIY job, it worked perfectly well and my mom is extremely happy. Those of you who want to watch the DIY vlog, can watch it here https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZX_DXrvQJNM The cost of the 3D printing was 300 Rs but you could surely negotiate the price down to 150-200 Rs as well. I'm just bad at negotiating. Hope you guy's enjoyed this DIY. If DIY is not your thing , you could also order the part online from UK but it will arrive only after a month and it will cost 1,500 Rs including shipping , the link for that is here This could be my mom's favourite food processor , like how we have favourite car's for ourselves. So she was really upset when one day, it stopped working. On further inspection, I found out that the coupler inside the bowl was cracked. Bad news is, since this is an imported Braun FX 3030 Food Processor, spare part is not available anywhere in India.I still went searching for the spare in all major stores and service centers around my locality hoping that I may get lucky by finding an Indian model with the same coupler design. But alas, one thing I learned is that luck is never on my side, but that obviously will not deter me from finding a solution.I suddenly thought one day, why don't I try printing a 3D model of the coupler and try using that. So I started searching for shops with 3D printers and 2 shops came up. FABLABS and X-ON Computers , both situated in Trivandrum.Now to do 3D print of the coupler, they will need an STL file, which I did download from the Internet and gave it to them. You can check out the file here https://www.stlfinder.com/model/atta...AokbZ/3196122/ He printed the Coupler and this is how the new one looks compared to the old one.The new coupler is made from a Nylon material which is hard but slightly flexible as well.One difference between the 3D printed coupler and old coupler was that, the new coupler was missing grooves inside the portion which meets with the shaft. The shaft has matching grooves.So to create the grooves, I heated the shaft for 40-60 seconds under a candle and just forced it inside the coupler and the grooves were created.Next I attached the coupler kit back into the bowl. There are totally 3 washers. 2 big washer come on top, first you will have to insert the big metal washer on the shaft followed by a big paper washer and then insert the shaft in the bowl.Tilt the bowl upside down holding the coupler shaft and drop the small metal washer on the shaft and then push the new coupler onto the shaft till it fits snugly.So after installing the shaft kit in the bowl, it's time to fit it on the food processor and check if it's working. No surprises here, just another successful DIY job, it worked perfectly well and my mom is extremely happy.Those of you who want to watch the DIY vlog, can watch it hereThe cost of the 3D printing was 300 Rs but you could surely negotiate the price down to 150-200 Rs as well. I'm just bad at negotiating. Hope you guy's enjoyed this DIY.If DIY is not your thing , you could also order the part online from UK but it will arrive only after a month and it will cost 1,500 Rs including shipping , the link for that is here https://ziperone.com/products/00000023133 techmaharaj Newbie Join Date: Jul 2022 Location: Hyderabad Posts: 4 Thanked: 57 Times My First Car | Tata Punch Review | 10,000 km & 6 months Thats when I thought it was time that I need a car. I did some thorough research, and test drives and eventually got the Tata Punch, my first car. It's the Adventure Rhythm with manual transmission. Our first car was a Maruti 800 DX, followed by the Tata Indigo that we drive for 1,50,000 kms. Both we let go as we moved cities and dad changed jobs. So the Punch came in after a long long gap! I also wrote two blog posts (~9000 words) sharing my experience of Clocking 10,000 kms in 6 months Jan 26th is when the Punch completed 6 months and it was also when it crossed 10,000 kms! I knew that after I get the car, I'd be driving around. But never thought it would be this much. It has already undergone two free services, and there was nothing major in them. Both were free services and I didn't pay a penny. In case you're wondering how and where I clocked 10,000, here are some details of my road trips: Hyderabad To Nagarjuna Sagar Hyderabad to Sri Sailam Dam Hyderabad to Pune/Panchgani Hyderabad to Bidar Hyderabad to Ramappa Temple (Warangal) Hyderabad to Medak Hyderabad to Lucknow - Team BHP Post (Lucknow to Hyderabad (via Nagpur) route queries) Hyderabad to Bijapur, Aihole Pattadakal All these road trips were to and fro, meaning I drove from Hyderabad and came back too. If you're interested, you can read more about each trip on my blog. Though this is my first car, I've driven Hexa, Nexon, Tiago (Thanks to Tata Motors for inviting me to experience them), Brezza, Celerio, Sunny and Endeavour. Having done 10,000 kms, I thought it was the best time to talk about the Punch, and things I like and dislike about it. Things I Like Smooth Ride Quality One of the best things about my Tata Punch is its amazing ride quality. The light steering at low speeds makes it effortless to maneuver in traffic and make quick turns. Plus, the small turning radius makes U-turns a breeze. At higher speeds, the steering becomes rock solid for better control and confidence. At 80-90 kmph, the ride is just fantastic. The suspension is also perfectly tuned, smoothing out bumps and potholes with ease. Its higher ground clearance than other hatchbacks in the segment gives you peace of mind that you won't hit the bottom. The Punch handles off-roading and rough roads exceptionally well. Comfortable Seating The seats on my Tata Punch are incredibly comfortable. They're shaped for good back support and the under-thigh support is great for long drives without fatigue. The presence of a dead pedal makes it even more relaxing on highways. I haven't sat in the back seat yet, but my 60+ year-old parents joined me on a road trip to Lucknow and they were amazed by the comfort. The car's height and 90-degree doors make it easy to get in and out, and the inclined seat angle made it comfortable for them. I give full marks for seating and comfort. Good Mileage Most of my driving is on the highways. I've seen an average mileage of 21-23 kmpl, based on the car's MID and my own calculations. I mostly drive in Eco mode barring when in cities and leaving highways. My long trips usually get me 22-23 kmpl (over 1000 km), which is very satisfying. My 120 km trip to Hyderabad (including 100 km of highway) gets me 24-25 kmpl. The highest I've gotten is 26.9 kmpl on ORR for a 60 km distance. I'm not a speed fanatic and rarely go over 100. I like to cruise at 70-80 and don't like to accelerate hard, overtake, or cut lanes. That's just not my style. Infotainment and AC The Harman sound system in the Tata Punch is fantastic, especially when using music apps like Spotify. The thump at volume 9 is impressive and the equalizer is great for fine-tuning the audio. The call quality during calls is also great, with the other person not even realizing you're in the car. The air conditioner is also a highlight, being quick and powerful with a cooled cabin in just 5 minutes at full speed and low-temperature setting. These were a few things I absolutely like about my Punch. However, there are a few things that surely can be improved or should have been better. Things I Dislike Lacks Punch At Higher Speeds The Tata Punch has decent power at lower speeds but lacks acceleration at higher speeds and RPMs. Driving it in the city mode is fine, but when you reach speeds around 80-90 kmph in 5th gear, you'll notice a lack of power. Overtaking at this speed requires downshifting to 4th gear for extra power. Adding a turbocharger may have improved performance, but it would have also increased the price. If you're a conservative driver who prioritizes comfort, the Punch may suit your needs. However, if you want a car with the race-like performance and quick overtaking abilities, the Punch may not be the right fit. Ultimately, the best way to know is to try it out yourself with a test drive Average Braking The Punch provides a confident driving experience at high speeds due to its steering, suspension, and visibility, but its brakes are a letdown. Despite being a heavy vehicle, the brakes are soft and result in a longer stopping distance. There have been instances where it took longer to come to a stop, causing a scare on the highways, especially in MP & UP where there are cow-meetings happening on the highways! Noisy Cabin Despite having some insulation under the hood, the Punch still allows engine noise to enter the cabin. When shifting gears to 4th or 5th, the revving engine can be heard inside. The engine's pickups also make some noise at times. The noise level is reduced when the AC is turned on and music is playing, but it's still noticeable. Although the vibrations have been reduced, the cabin can still get quite noisy. You can try to not notice it, but it just gets your attention at times. Poor Finish/Paint Job Lastly, the poor fit and finish of the Tata Punch is a major drawback. The large panel gaps easily collect dust, leading to dirty door panels, boot, and bonnet. After long drives, it's noticeable how much dust has accumulated in these gaps. The overall finish is subpar, with poorly cut and misaligned metal sheets and fiber components detracting from the look and feel of the car. Some areas have a white waxy substance that is difficult to remove. The paint job is also below average. After parking the car in the sun, minor ghost lines were noticed on the bonnet. Here's To Another 10,000 kms! In conclusion, after driving the Tata Punch for 10,000 km, I have found it to be a car that offers a great blend of comfort and performance. The Harman sound system is simply amazing and so is the call quality. The air conditioner is also quick and powerful, making it easy to have a chilled cabin in under 5 minutes. The seating is comfortable for long trips with good back and under-thigh support, also the dead pedal makes it a breeze. However, the Punch does have some limitations when it comes to performance. At higher speeds and revs, the car lacks power and you can feel it when in 5th gear and higher speeds. The brakes also could have been better and the cabin can be noisy. The fit and finish of the car also leaves much to be desired, with huge panel gaps that accumulate dust and poor paint jobs. In conclusion, if you're a conservative, comfort driver, the Tata Punch may be a great choice. However, if you're looking for a car that can perform like a race car and quickly overtake at higher speeds, I don't know if you'll like it. Ultimately, it's best to do a test drive and experience it for yourself. A few years ago, I didn't feel the need for a car. That was mainly because I didn't have a place to park. However, I moved to a different part of Hyderabad which is quite far from the city. That meant that I now had to travel almost 60 km to visit the city. Not only did it take time, but riding on an Activa was way too tiring, plus the rains were a big deterrent. Further, cabs to anywhere in Hyderabad cost close to Rs 1000 on one side, which is way too expensive. That also hampered us as a family traveling around.Thats when I thought it was time that I need a car. I did some thorough research, and test drives and eventually got the Tata Punch, my first car. It's the. Our first car was a Maruti 800 DX, followed by the Tata Indigo that we drive for 1,50,000 kms. Both we let go as we moved cities and dad changed jobs. So the Punch came in after a long long gap!I also wrote two blog posts (~9000 words) sharing my experience of buying a car in India Jan 26th is when the Punch completed 6 months and it was also when it! I knew that after I get the car, I'd be driving around. But never thought it would be this much. It has already undergone two free services, and there was nothing major in them. Both were free services and I didn't pay a penny.In case you're wondering how and where I clocked 10,000, here are some details of my road trips:All these road trips were to and fro, meaning I drove from Hyderabad and came back too. If you're interested, you can read more about each trip on my blog.Though this is my first car, I've driven Hexa, Nexon, Tiago (), Brezza, Celerio, Sunny and Endeavour.Having done 10,000 kms, I thought it was the best time to talk about the Punch, and things I like and dislike about it.One of the best things about my Tata Punch is its. The light steering at low speeds makes it effortless to maneuver in traffic and make quick turns. Plus, the small turning radius makes U-turns a breeze. At higher speeds, the steering becomes rock solid for better control and confidence. At 80-90 kmph, the ride is just fantastic.The suspension is also perfectly tuned, smoothing out bumps and potholes with ease. Itsthan other hatchbacks in the segment gives you peace of mind that you won't hit the bottom. The Punch handles off-roading and rough roads exceptionally well.The seats on my Tata Punch are. They're shaped for good back support and the under-thigh support is great for long drives without fatigue. Themakes it even more relaxing on highways.I haven't sat in the back seat yet, but my 60+ year-old parents joined me on a road trip to Lucknow and they were amazed by the comfort. The, and the inclined seat angle made it comfortable for them. I give full marks for seating and comfort.Most of my driving is on the highways. I've seen an, based on the car's MID and my own calculations. I mostly drive in Eco mode barring when in cities and leaving highways. My long trips usually get me 22-23 kmpl (over 1000 km), which is very satisfying. My 120 km trip to Hyderabad (including 100 km of highway) gets me 24-25 kmpl.on ORR for a 60 km distance.I'm. I like to cruise at 70-80 and don't like to accelerate hard, overtake, or cut lanes. That's just not my style.The Harman sound system in the Tata Punch is fantastic, especially when using music apps like Spotify. Theand the equalizer is great for fine-tuning the audio.Theis also great, with the other person not even realizing you're in the car. The air conditioner is also a highlight, being quick and powerful with aat full speed and low-temperature setting.These were a few things I absolutely like about my Punch. However, there are a few things that surely can be improved or should have been better.The Tata Punch has decent power at lower speeds but lacks acceleration at higher speeds and RPMs. Driving it in the city mode is fine, but when you reach speeds around 80-90 kmph in 5th gear,. Overtaking at this speed requires downshifting to 4th gear for extra power.Adding a turbocharger may have improved performance, but it would have also increased the price.. However, if you want a car with the race-like performance and quick overtaking abilities, the Punch may not be the right fit. Ultimately, the best way to know is to try it out yourself with a test driveThe Punch provides a confident driving experience at high speeds due to its steering, suspension, and visibility, but its brakes are a letdown. Despite being a heavy vehicle, the brakes are soft and result in a longer stopping distance.There have been instances where it took longer to come to a stop, causing a scare on the highways, especially in MP & UP where there are cow-meetings happening on the highways!Despite having some insulation under the hood, the Punch still allows. When shifting gears to 4th or 5th, the revving engine can be heard inside. The engine's pickups also make some noise at times.The noise level is reduced when the AC is turned on and music is playing, but it's still noticeable. Although the vibrations have been reduced, the cabin can still get quite noisy. You can try to not notice it, but it just gets your attention at times.Lastly, the poor fit and finish of the Tata Punch is a major drawback. The large panel gaps easily collect dust, leading to dirty door panels, boot, and bonnet. After long drives, it's noticeable how much dust has accumulated in these gaps.The overall finish is subpar, with poorly cut and misaligned metal sheets and fiber components detracting from the look and feel of the car. Some areas have a white waxy substance that is difficult to remove.The paint job is also below average. After parking the car in the sun, minor ghost lines were noticed on the bonnet.In conclusion, after driving the Tata Punch for 10,000 km, I have found it to be a car that offers a great blend of comfort and performance. The Harman sound system is simply amazing and so is the call quality. The air conditioner is also quick and powerful, making it easy to have a chilled cabin in under 5 minutes. The seating is comfortable for long trips with good back and under-thigh support, also the dead pedal makes it a breeze.However, the Punch does have some limitations when it comes to performance. At higher speeds and revs, the car lacks power and you can feel it when in 5th gear and higher speeds. The brakes also could have been better and the cabin can be noisy. The fit and finish of the car also leaves much to be desired, with huge panel gaps that accumulate dust and poor paint jobs.In conclusion, if you're a conservative, comfort driver, the Tata Punch may be a great choice. However, if you're looking for a car that can perform like a race car and quickly overtake at higher speeds, I don't know if you'll like it.Ultimately, it's best to do a test drive and experience it for yourself. Last edited by GTO : 3rd February 2023 at 10:26 . Reason: Taking live, thanks Maxton07 BHPian Join Date: Jul 2022 Location: Chennai Posts: 35 Thanked: 225 Times Chennai to Pune road-trip | Me, Mom and Tata Manza Prologue: Hi and hello to all. Its been a year since I made my first travelogue, The day before travel was one hell of a day, as it had a lot of confusion and decisions at the last minute. I will try to explain the chaos as simple as possible at my best level. Our initial plan to start the trip was on the 24th(Tuesday) Jan, but my dad, on the 22nd(Sunday), abruptly asked us to plan for the 23rd(Monday) since we needed a day of rest after the two-day travel, so that, on the 26th Jan(national holiday) we would spend time visiting nearby places. I had my final year project review on the 23rd(Monday), so I told him that it wasn't possible for me to proceed with his plan. Then, a thought sparked while lying on the bed, what if we travel within a day to reach Pune if possible. Immediately took my phone to check our forum to see if anyone had done Chennai-Pune within a day. Saw a few who had made this trip within a day in 2012. On the 22nd(Sunday) night, I told my dad that we would start and decide the journey on the 24th(Tuesday) to be one or/two-day, based on the distance we covered by afternoon during the travel. The ETA displayed by google maps was 21hrs. I assumed that if we reach 600 km by noon, it would be a one-day journey. If not, then it's a two-day journey. After many arguments, my proposal was approved by the 23rd(Monday) noon. This led to some hurry-burry happenings on the day-before journey. Rushed home after college to buy essential things and car docs(RC, Insurance, PUC) which, just like that, disappeared while servicing the car. Anyways, got done with all the things and planned to start from Chennai on 24th Jan, 3.30 am. This time, I was more excited about the trip as I could enjoy the driving part to myself. . The D-Day: The route map! Woke up at 2.30 am, and mom prepared the lunch, managing the time she got after last-minute chaos. So all set and flagged off the voyage by 3.45 am. Our initial ETA to reach Bangalore was 8 am, assuming trafficless roads and raking up as much distance as possible before sunlight comes. Took around an hour to reach Kanchipuram as there were lots of diversions and expansion of roads happening. The slow-moving trucks and low light conditions made me travel slowly. Chennai-Bengaluru Highway Toll #1 These conditions continued till the Chennasamudram toll plaza, which was the first toll. Though the roads were good compared to the previous ones, there were still few diversions long enough to cause setbacks in covering distances. Maintained an average between 80-90kph and reached Vellore within the next half hour. Diversions Morning Bliss The most satisfying part of driving is when the sunrises, along with some good tunes on the stereo. And speaking about the infotainment system, we recently swapped the stock ones with aftermarket as the stock went kaput after nine long years. I'm not a great audiophile, but the stock Blaupunkt 8-speaker set up by Tata is excellent to date. To appreciate those audio speakers, we changed the infotainment system. The aftermarket system doesn't support android auto or car play, as I mostly prefer something akin to OG. It comes with stock-like UI with preloaded maps in an SD card(which has to be updated every year), and some updated features since both(stock and aftermarket) are manufactured and supported by mapmyindia. It cost us around 10k but nevertheless had a great time enjoying the tunes on our way. stock vs new Vellore to Vaniyambadi stretch The Vellore to Krishnagiri stretch was fantastic, which helped us to catch up on the time we lost. Reached Krishnagiri by 7.30 am, then our tummies began to desire its fuel. So stopped by a hotel named "Saravana Bhavan" which was its doppelganger I guess. Initially thought of skipping that hotel, but the watchman kept waving at us where we didn't have any other choice since we were hungry. We kept our expectations very low, but the food was delicious; DOT! Due to travel, we had a light breakfast by having idlis and vadas each, which sufficed enough to back us till lunch. Breakfast Halt Reached electronic city by 9 am and got confused by google maps at the tollgate. Instead of taking the service road after the toll, ran above the flyover, which led to a subsequent delay in reaching the Nice road. Even Nice road had some diversions causing traffic which made us behind the schedule to catch the bypass. Random Stop near Krishnagiri-Bengaluru stretch Nice road Diversions-Nice road Finally took the exit to join the Tumkur bypass. At that moment, done 375kms from home in 6hrs 45mins(10.30 am). The remaining distance yet to be covered was around 900kms approximately. Thought we were way behind schedule, so made up my mind to look for a place to halt for the day, as we would anyways stop for a break every 250kms, which results in losing time. Also received inputs from the family side to split the travel journey. Then...there comes the NH48, Madras-Bombay trunk road as a guardian angel to aid our faith in reaching Pune within a day. The asphalt began with broad three-lane roads without any diversions as such. Felt slightly relieved after ending up on this road after the poor pace with which we sailed About to take NH48 Madras-Bombay trunk road While appreciating those beautiful roads, reached Chitradurga in no time by 12.45 pm. It's around 180 km from the place where I took the trunk road. Saw many windmills on the way and stopped for lunch at precisely 1 pm as I determined to have a break after completing at least half the distance of the journey. So the distance done till the lunch break was at 601kms. Parked at the leftmost service lane and gave the vehicle a much-needed break for 30mins after non-stop running. Windmills near Chitradurga At the halfway mark Lunch Halt Pulled over to refill fuel after wrapping up lunch to avoid unnecessary pauses for the forthcoming journey. My mom moved to the back seat after the meal, as she had barely slept the day before. Resumed the drive with the objective of reaching Kolhapur at most by evening. After the Bankapur toll, roads became two-way, which led to a slowing down in momentum. Amidst this hurdle, trucks joined the party by progressing at a slow pace among the sloping roads. The road condition was favorable, although construction works were happening at a few checkpoints. Would have arrived at Kolhapur by 6 pm if not for the traffic at the Hirebagewadi toll and two-way roads showing up on our way. Bankapur-Hirebagewadi stretch The time when I entered the Maharashtra border was at 6.30 pm, and I reached Kolhapur around 7 pm. I initially thought that I had arrived sooner than I expected by looking at the light outside, but after having a view at my watch realized my consciousness about being in the west as the sunset slower than usual. My mom woke after a good sleep and wondered to hear me saying we were just hours away from the destination. Kolhapur @ 6.45pm Mostly two-lane roads after Kolhapur city, and the road condition was fine, but the route carried some towns on its way. Crossed Satara by 8.30 pm and enjoyed my drive along the Khambatki Ghat. It had some nice twisties along the route, which I usually experience at the hill stations in Tamilnadu. The roads were excellent after the ghats, and I experienced my first tunnel encounter on the highway. Some heavy rumble strips were present on the pavement as they rattled the car very harshly. Exited the highway to enter Pune city by 10 pm. Noticed that after setting wheels on the trunk road, I didn't turn left/right until the exit to Pune city. So there was no diversion for roughly 800 km on this stretch. At last, arrived at the destination by 10.45 pm after meddling through the city traffic. The weather was breezy, and I later realized that Pune was above 550m from sea level after having a look at the infotainment system. Khambatki Tunnel CHENNAI-PUNE Distance PUNE ALTITUDE HOW WELL DID THE CAR FARE ON THIS TRIP: To start with, have to appreciate Tata engineers for figuring out and managing the amount of spaciousness in this segment. It is a proper family sedan where five people can actually travel cozy without any fatigue or complaints, whereas the cars today in this segment fail to achieve. The engine is decently refined until 2000rpm, but once it moves up, it loses its NVH. Going over 100kph makes the engine spin at 2600rpm, and this is where I felt the need for a 6th cog for this motor. Spinning around 2600rpm is way beyond the threshold for a diesel engine. They(tata engineers) could have managed to bring it under 2200rpm at least to improve fuel efficiency and NVH while cruising at triple-digit speeds. This was the moment where my audio system came to the rescue to filtrate NVH. The mileage would have been ideally 23-25kmpl if not for the lousy gear ratio with which tata exercised with this model. While roughly analyzing, I calculated that this 44-liter fuel tank could cover 1000 km without any refill. The gearbox is slick enough to operate only when it is authorized by me. Once it goes out of my hand (i.e) when driven by others, then the slickness gets vanished. This engine has ample power for overtaking, but before that, we must cross the turbo lag at the bottom end. Once it crosses 2k rpm, the turbo spools up and even holds up to enlighten a bit of spirited driving. The only feature which I regretted not having was the lack of cruise control. I sorely missed it at the Madras-Bombay trunk road, where I remember an instance when my feet got numbed after resting my leg on the gas pedal for a long time. Another thing that annoyed me was the soft suspension setup which wasn't helpful while cruising along highways. Body movements of the vehicle were a lot while passing over those undulations. So the maximum speed was restricted to 100kph by myself. Received an ICD error on the instrument cluster after fueling up, don't know what action to be taken, but when I went over the manual, it denotes a malfunction of the entire instrument cluster. The error got faded away after driving a few km. But the same gets repeated, only when I filled the fuel tank. Hope it's a minor bug to sort out. I expected a lot of fatigue the following day after driving continuously, but nothing as such bothered me. Since I knew the route after reaching Pune, the return to Chennai was completed within 17hrs. Eventually, I would like to say that this car is a capable cruiser and an underrated gem that wasn't either celebrated or appreciated like others from the tata stable. Will try to post our ten long-year stint with this machine later. STATS: Distance covered: 1237km Fuel Consumed:55 Liter Fuel Expenses: 5000rs(approx.) Toll Expenses: 1650rs Mileage Report: 22.5kmpl GLIMPSES DURING THE TRIP GATEWAY OF INDIA STREETS OF MUMBAI AT MARINE DRIVE SEA WORLI LINK LONAVALA PUNE-CHENNAI Hi and hello to all. Its been a year since I made my first travelogue, https://www.team-bhp.com/forum/trave...ata-manza.html (Chennai to Kolkata in a Tata Manza) . The itch for a road trip started ever since the last time we went, as it was the longest car journey I've ever had to reach a place. The same itch started again, but I didn't know where to plan for this time as my father got busy with his tight work schedule. Fortunately, he got moved to a new workplace in Pune on November 22. I still remember the amount of excitement I had when my father told me about his new job, not because of his job per se(well...A little, I would say!) but the new workplace with which we could make it a road trip this year. And my dad, as usual, invited us to Pune as he knew that I'd wish for it. I had my semesters going on till mid-Jan, so I thought of planning it for the month's end. Well, since we made the Chennai-Kolkata road trip successfully after facing some conflicts within ourselves, the road is clear for this one. Had our car serviced at Tata ASS for the annual maintenance schedule and rectified a few complaints which we had. This road trip featured me and my mom, as my brother went for his higher studies to abroad last year. We decided to split the journey into two days to have a stress-free travel.The day before travel was one hell of a day, as it had a lot of confusion and decisions at the last minute. I will try to explain the chaos as simple as possible at my best level. Our initial plan to start the trip was on the 24th(Tuesday) Jan, but my dad, on the 22nd(Sunday), abruptly asked us to plan for the 23rd(Monday) since we needed a day of rest after the two-day travel, so that, on the 26th Jan(national holiday) we would spend time visiting nearby places. I had my final year project review on the 23rd(Monday), so I told him that it wasn't possible for me to proceed with his plan. Then, a thought sparked while lying on the bed, what if we travel within a day to reach Pune if possible. Immediately took my phone to check our forum to see if anyone had done Chennai-Pune within a day. Saw a few who had made this trip within a day in 2012. On the 22nd(Sunday) night, I told my dad that we would start and decide the journey on the 24th(Tuesday) to be one or/two-day, based on the distance we covered by afternoon during the travel. The ETA displayed by google maps was 21hrs. I assumed that if we reach 600 km by noon, it would be a one-day journey. If not, then it's a two-day journey. After many arguments, my proposal was approved by the 23rd(Monday) noon. This led to some hurry-burry happenings on the day-before journey. Rushed home after college to buy essential things and car docs(RC, Insurance, PUC) which, just like that, disappeared while servicing the car. Anyways, got done with all the things and planned to start from Chennai on 24th Jan, 3.30 am. This time, I was more excited about the trip as I could enjoy the driving part to myself.The route map!Woke up at 2.30 am, and mom prepared the lunch, managing the time she got after last-minute chaos. So all set and flagged off the voyage by 3.45 am. Our initial ETA to reach Bangalore was 8 am, assuming trafficless roads and raking up as much distance as possible before sunlight comes. Took around an hour to reach Kanchipuram as there were lots of diversions and expansion of roads happening. The slow-moving trucks and low light conditions made me travel slowly.These conditions continued till the Chennasamudram toll plaza, which was the first toll. Though the roads were good compared to the previous ones, there were still few diversions long enough to cause setbacks in covering distances. Maintained an average between 80-90kph and reached Vellore within the next half hour.The most satisfying part of driving is when the sunrises, along with some good tunes on the stereo. And speaking about the infotainment system, we recently swapped the stock ones with aftermarket as the stock went kaput after nine long years. I'm not a great audiophile, but the stock Blaupunkt 8-speaker set up by Tata is excellent to date. To appreciate those audio speakers, we changed the infotainment system. The aftermarket system doesn't support android auto or car play, as I mostly prefer something akin to OG. It comes with stock-like UI with preloaded maps in an SD card(which has to be updated every year), and some updated features since both(stock and aftermarket) are manufactured and supported by mapmyindia. It cost us around 10k but nevertheless had a great time enjoying the tunes on our way.The Vellore to Krishnagiri stretch was fantastic, which helped us to catch up on the time we lost. Reached Krishnagiri by 7.30 am, then our tummies began to desire its fuel. So stopped by a hotel named "Saravana Bhavan" which was its doppelganger I guess. Initially thought of skipping that hotel, but the watchman kept waving at us where we didn't have any other choice since we were hungry. We kept our expectations very low, but the food was delicious; DOT! Due to travel, we had a light breakfast by having idlis and vadas each, which sufficed enough to back us till lunch.Reached electronic city by 9 am and got confused by google maps at the tollgate. Instead of taking the service road after the toll, ran above the flyover, which led to a subsequent delay in reaching the Nice road. Even Nice road had some diversions causing traffic which made us behind the schedule to catch the bypass.Finally took the exit to join the Tumkur bypass. At that moment, done 375kms from home in 6hrs 45mins(10.30 am). The remaining distance yet to be covered was around 900kms approximately. Thought we were way behind schedule, so made up my mind to look for a place to halt for the day, as we would anyways stop for a break every 250kms, which results in losing time. Also received inputs from the family side to split the travel journey. Then...there comes the NH48, Madras-Bombay trunk road as a guardian angel to aid our faith in reaching Pune within a day. The asphalt began with broad three-lane roads without any diversions as such. Felt slightly relieved after ending up on this road after the poor pace with which we sailedWhile appreciating those beautiful roads, reached Chitradurga in no time by 12.45 pm. It's around 180 km from the place where I took the trunk road. Saw many windmills on the way and stopped for lunch at precisely 1 pm as I determined to have a break after completing at least half the distance of the journey. So the distance done till the lunch break was at 601kms. Parked at the leftmost service lane and gave the vehicle a much-needed break for 30mins after non-stop running.Pulled over to refill fuel after wrapping up lunch to avoid unnecessary pauses for the forthcoming journey. My mom moved to the back seat after the meal, as she had barely slept the day before. Resumed the drive with the objective of reaching Kolhapur at most by evening. After the Bankapur toll, roads became two-way, which led to a slowing down in momentum. Amidst this hurdle, trucks joined the party by progressing at a slow pace among the sloping roads. The road condition was favorable, although construction works were happening at a few checkpoints. Would have arrived at Kolhapur by 6 pm if not for the traffic at the Hirebagewadi toll and two-way roads showing up on our way.The time when I entered the Maharashtra border was at 6.30 pm, and I reached Kolhapur around 7 pm. I initially thought that I had arrived sooner than I expected by looking at the light outside, but after having a view at my watch realized my consciousness about being in the west as the sunset slower than usual. My mom woke after a good sleep and wondered to hear me saying we were just hours away from the destination.Mostly two-lane roads after Kolhapur city, and the road condition was fine, but the route carried some towns on its way. Crossed Satara by 8.30 pm and enjoyed my drive along the Khambatki Ghat. It had some nice twisties along the route, which I usually experience at the hill stations in Tamilnadu. The roads were excellent after the ghats, and I experienced my first tunnel encounter on the highway. Some heavy rumble strips were present on the pavement as they rattled the car very harshly. Exited the highway to enter Pune city by 10 pm. Noticed that after setting wheels on the trunk road, I didn't turn left/right until the exit to Pune city. So there was no diversion for roughly 800 km on this stretch. At last, arrived at the destination by 10.45 pm after meddling through the city traffic. The weather was breezy, and I later realized that Pune was above 550m from sea level after having a look at the infotainment system.To start with, have to appreciate Tata engineers for figuring out and managing the amount of spaciousness in this segment. It is a proper family sedan where five people can actually travel cozy without any fatigue or complaints, whereas the cars today in this segment fail to achieve. The engine is decently refined until 2000rpm, but once it moves up, it loses its NVH. Going over 100kph makes the engine spin at 2600rpm, and this is where I felt the need for a 6th cog for this motor. Spinning around 2600rpm is way beyond the threshold for a diesel engine. They(tata engineers) could have managed to bring it under 2200rpm at least to improve fuel efficiency and NVH while cruising at triple-digit speeds.This was the moment where my audio system came to the rescue to filtrate NVH. The mileage would have been ideally 23-25kmpl if not for the lousy gear ratio with which tata exercised with this model. While roughly analyzing, I calculated that this 44-liter fuel tank could cover 1000 km without any refill. The gearbox is slick enough to operate only when it is authorized by me. Once it goes out of my hand (i.e) when driven by others, then the slickness gets vanished. This engine has ample power for overtaking, but before that, we must cross the turbo lag at the bottom end. Once it crosses 2k rpm, the turbo spools up and even holds up to enlighten a bit of spirited driving. The only feature which I regretted not having was the lack of cruise control. I sorely missed it at the Madras-Bombay trunk road, where I remember an instance when my feet got numbed after resting my leg on the gas pedal for a long time. Another thing that annoyed me was the soft suspension setup which wasn't helpful while cruising along highways. Body movements of the vehicle were a lot while passing over those undulations. So the maximum speed was restricted to 100kph by myself.Received an ICD error on the instrument cluster after fueling up, don't know what action to be taken, but when I went over the manual, it denotes a malfunction of the entire instrument cluster. The error got faded away after driving a few km. But the same gets repeated, only when I filled the fuel tank. Hope it's a minor bug to sort out. I expected a lot of fatigue the following day after driving continuously, but nothing as such bothered me. Since I knew the route after reaching Pune, the return to Chennai was completed within 17hrs. Eventually, I would like to say that this car is a capable cruiser and an underrated gem that wasn't either celebrated or appreciated like others from the tata stable. Will try to post our ten long-year stint with this machine later.Distance covered: 1237kmFuel Consumed:55 LiterFuel Expenses: 5000rs(approx.)Toll Expenses: 1650rsMileage Report: 22.5kmpl TechSpot is about to celebrate its 25th anniversary. TechSpot means tech analysis and advice you can trust Something to look forward to: Google CEO Sundar Pichai disclosed the company's plans to integrate AI technologies into search and other products. During a Q4 earnings conference call this week, Pichai said that users would very soon be able to directly interact with its newest, most potent model as a companion to search in innovative ways. Google will release its chatbot technology to the general public in "the next weeks and months," according to the CEO. Google Search will leverage LaMDA (Language Model for Dialogue Applications), the company's in-house language model, to deliver "factual" and conversational results to queries. The tech giant is prepared to show what they've been working on amid the current generative AI frenzy and revealed plans to integrate the technology into the bulk of its products, including some cutting-edge AI features in Gmail and Docs. He mentioned two "big language models" being developed at the company, LaMDA and PaLM, with the former set for immediate release. Previous reports indicated that Google was internally testing a LaMDA-based AI chatbot called "Apprentice Bard" that is comparable to ChatGPT. Interestingly, at Google I/O in 2021, the company showcased first-generation LaMDA's capabilities, but it rapidly courted controversy when a software engineer claimed that the chatbot was "sentient" and communicated ideas and feelings similar to that of a human child. Pichai repeatedly brought up the capabilities of AI and how the world is prepared to embrace it, citing the public's enthusiastic reception to OpenAI's ChatGPT. Large language models, like LaMDA and the one powering ChatGPT, are given massive amounts of text to learn how to generate believable phrases. These kinds of neural networks replicate the fundamental structure of the brain in digital form. Pichai also praised DeepMind, an AI division of Alphabet based in the UK, noting that 1 million scientists worldwide had utilized its database of all 200 million proteins known to science. As a side note, Microsoft has already unveiled a new Teams Premium tier that uses AI to handle several activities, including creating automatic meeting notes, suggesting tasks, creating customized highlights, and more. In other words, ChatGPT will power Teams Premium to streamline platform meetings. TechSpot is about to celebrate its 25th anniversary. TechSpot means tech analysis and advice you can trust What just happened? Windows 95 occupied less than 100MB upon installation. A clean Windows 11 install, however, needs around 20GB. Nobody doubts that software will need more data as technology marches forward, but many believe Windows hasn't justified a 20,000% install size increase over 28 years. One developer may have proven this with a custom installation that cuts Windows 11 to half its default size. This week, NTDEV released Tiny11, a version of Windows 11 that needs only ~8GB of your hard drive and can run on 2GB of RAM. It also removes Windows 11's somewhat demanding system requirements, but users should know it makes some steep sacrifices to slim down. A streamlined version of Windows 11 Pro 22H2, Tiny11 comes in an ISO available on archive.org that's just 3GB compared to Microsoft's official 5.1GB ISO download. The smaller version of Microsoft's operating system includes the bare necessities like accessibility software, the Calculator, Notepad, and Paint. It also retains the Microsoft Store, so users can install whatever extra Microsoft software they need. The system comes with local accounts by default but can also use online accounts. It's finally here! Based off of Windows 11 Pro 22H2, tiny11 has everything you need for a comfortable computing experience without the bloat and clutter of a standard Windows installation. https://t.co/yM1Ip2ljjB pic.twitter.com/Tg5PWUZU1Q --- NTDEV @ntdev@mastodon.social (@NTDEV_) February 2, 2023 The sacrifice NTDEV credits the most for downsizing Windows 11 is the Windows Component Store (WinSxS). Without it, users won't be able to install new languages or major features. The developer says Tiny11 is "not serviceable," but confirms the system can receive .NET, drivers, and security definitions through Windows Update. NTDEV assures users concerned about the security risks of a custom Windows version that Tiny11 doesn't contain anything from non-Microsoft sources. However, users anxious about privacy shouldn't install it expecting to be totally free of Microsoft's telemetry. Tiny11's main goal is to broaden the range of systems that can access Windows 11. The custom edition can run on any system that runs Windows 10 and can dual boot with that OS. Windows 11 launched to controversy over its surprisingly strict system requirements, particularly regarding CPUs. Due to TPM requirements, the OS normally needs at least an 8th-gen Intel Core or AMD Zen+ processor. Unsupported systems can run Windows 11, but doing so requires going through extra hoops, which Tiny11 eliminates. StatCounter latest figures indicate Windows 11 has yet to reach one in five Windows users. Microsoft's latest OS is still gaining market share, but far more slowly than Windows 10 which still runs on at least 70 percent of Windows systems. YouTube Music workers went on strike as both Alphabet and subcontractor Cognizant are accused of leveraging unfair labor practices as they conducted the union drive. This is the first time a group of workers from Google has gone on strike. (Photo : SUZANNE CORDEIRO/AFP via Getty Images) Subcontracted YouTube Music workers employed by Alphabets outsourcing partner Cognizant strike outside Google's office in Austin, Texas, on February 3, 2023. - The workers went on strike because of what they say are unfair labor practices. YouTube Music Strike A group of 40 workers from YouTube Music in Austin, Texas strike this Friday. Based on a report from TechCrunch, these employees were all employed by Alphabet subcontractor Cognizant, which was accused of unfair labor practices. YouTube Music Generalist Sam Regan stated via Facebook live stream that the majority of the department is set to vote yes in a National Labor Relations Board election. "Our employer is forcing an end to remote work before the vote, which would dramatically interfere with the fair voting conditions mandated by federal law," he added. According to Alphabet Workers Union (AWU), the content operations team is expected to comply with the return-to-office policy (RTO) on February 6th. However, these employees were hired remotely, and some of them are not even based in Texas. Workers are only paid $19 per hour. Through this wage, AWU stated that workers will not afford the relocation, travel, and health care costs associated with every employee in the company. Additionally, managers were also accused of sending workers to other offices to tone down the union efforts. As a response after being informed of the workers' strike, Time reported that Cognizant and Alphabet offered workers the option to work from home for an additional two weeks. But they can only take this on the condition to quit Cognizant's work for YouTube, which was made to discourage employees from engaging in any protected concerted activity. A Google Software Engineer spoke out regarding this issue as a support for the striking workers, "The layoffs showed we are just entries in a spreadsheet to Google executives. This isn't the Google I thought I joined. This strike is what I joined Google for. Thank you." Also Read: YouTube Music Rolls Out Testing for Live Lyrics in New Casting UI Cognizant's Response Engadget reported that Alphabet and Cognizant only announced the RTO police after workers voted to unionize. But Cognizant clarified that these plans have been in place and communicated with the employees since December 2021. The statement added, "Associates working on this project accepted their employment with the understanding that they were accepting in-office positions, and that the team would work together at a physical location based in Austin." Employees appealed to the NLRB to be recognized as "jointly employed" by both Cognizant and Alphabet, which would force the company to negotiate as per United States Labor Laws. The strike began at noon (EST) today outside of the Google office in Austin, Texas. Last October 2022, 58 employees from YouTube Music Content Operations signed to file for union recognition with the National Labor Relations Board in Austin, Texas. This is an effort to seek bargaining power. Related Article: YouTube Music Down for Some Users - Any Fix? 2023 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. Google Chrome for Android users might gain a new handy feature in its future update, aptly known as "Quick Delete." It should give mobile users of the web browser an option to delete their recent browsing history or their account history right away. (Photo : KIMIHIRO HOSHINO/AFP via Getty Images) Sundar Pichai, senior vice president of Chrome, speaks at Google's annual developer conference, Google I/O, in San Francisco on June 28, 2012. The search engine giant appears to be currently working on it, potentially rolling it out to smartphone owners in its upcoming update. Google Chrome on Android's New 'Quick Delete' Feature As per a report by XDA Developers, Google seems to be quietly developing a new privacy feature for Chrome Android users. It could likely see the light of day anytime soon, perhaps in the future versions of the web browser. The news outlet notes that a new flag was spotted at Chromium Gerrit, which suggests that the new "Quick Delete" option is on its way to Chrome for Android users. However, it is unclear if the potentially upcoming feature lets users delete their browsing history only. Or better yet, they might be allowed to purge other account activities as well. On top of that, the flag only appeared on the Android version of the browser. Despite that, it might not take long before iOS, PC, and Mac users also get their hands on it. How does it Work? The "Quick Delete" option essentially deletes the most recent private data as easy as a single click of a button. A news story from 9to5 Google notes that it is not the first instance that the search giant rolled out such a feature. (Photo : KIMIHIRO HOSHINO/AFP via Getty Images) Sundar Pichai, senior vice president of Chrome, speaks at Google's annual developer conference, Google I/O, in San Francisco on June 28, 2012. Back in 2021, the renowned tech firm introduced a similar option to its Google app users, allowing them to delete their recent search history, along with other activities in their accounts. There have long been ways to clear this private information beneath the settings. However, the "Quick Delete" feature gives them the option to purge their most recent searches in a single tap of a button. And this time, it looks like the tech behemoth wants to bring the handy option to its Chrome users on Android as well. 9to5 Google notes that the feature might soon let Chrome Android users get rid of their browsing history in the last 15 minutes in a single tap. Read Also: Google is Bringing an Android Feature For Private Browsing of Incognito Tabs How to Update Google Chrome Android The new "Quick Delete" option might soon arrive for Google Chrome Android users. So, here's how to keep your web browser up to date. (Photo : KIMIHIRO HOSHINO/AFP/GettyImages) Google Chrome's logo is seen at Google's annual developer conference, Google I/O, at Moscone Center in San Francisco on June 28, 2012 in California. Android Police notes that users could manually update it like any other app. Head straight to the Google Play Store, and select "Manage apps & device" from Settings. From there, go to the "Update available" section. Then, tap "See details." And lastly, trap the "Update" button for Google Chrome. Related Article: Google Chrome for Android's Incognito Mode Adds Fingerprint Unlock: Here's How to Enable 2023 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. Electrify America announced that there will be a price increase for its electricity rates at its station in March, affecting all customers and Pass+ subscribers. Customers started receiving emails from the company that contains price increase details. (Photo : FREDERIC J. BROWN/AFP via Getty Images) An Electric Vehicle charging station in Monterey Park, California on May 18, 2021. Increasing Electricity Rates If you're buying an electric vehicle because of the increasing gas prices, you might have to rethink again because Electrify America will increase its electricity rates at its fast charging stations this coming March 6th. Ars Technica reported that US customers will be charged a standard rate of $0.48 per kilowatt hour (increasing by 11.6%), with a previous rate of $0.43 per kWh. Corporate Communications Manager, Tara Geiger, stated that despite maintaining its consistent and uniform pricing since September 2020, the rising operation and energy costs made them adjust its pricing. "Our focus remains on meeting the needs of electric vehicle drivers of today and tomorrow by investing in our network expansion and enhancement to customer experience," she added. Aside from the customers, subscription members of the Pass+ level will also be affected by this matter, as they will receive a 16% increase from $0.31 to $0.36 per kWh. But Geiger explained that subscribers can still benefit from savings of about 25% on charging. Massachusetts and Texas will increase their per-minute charging rates, as companies are not allowed to bill customers by the hour. Because of this, users will be paying $0.19 per minute with peak charging speeds of 90kW, originally from $0.16. Electrify America's Expansion Plans Based on a report from The Verge, Electrify America operates one of the largest DC fast charger networks in the country, with 800+ charging stations that contain 3,500 individual EV chargers. In 2023, the network works for an expansion in the United States and Canada as they aim to grow 10,000 chargers across the 1,800 stations. Through this expansion, Electrify America will now include 1,000 EA fast charges that will implement across 200 TravelCenters locations in the United States. To reduce its reliance on the grid, new Mega-Watt-backed storage stations will also be added to charge EVs. (Photo : Sean Gallup/Getty Images) A Volkswagen ID.3 electric car charges outside the "Glaserne Manufaktur" ("Glass Manufactory") production facility on June 08, 2021 in Dresden, Germany. Also Read: Ultrafast EV Chargers for IKEA: Electrify America to Install Chargers in 25 US Locations Last September 2022, Electrify America unveiled its new charging station designs with some enhancements including a new charged balance charging system, charging level label indicator, and better payment options. This was launched after conducting some electric car driver surveys. According to their research, Engadget reported that EV owners were having a hard time identifying the charging speeds of their EVs. EA will keep the CHAdeMO for low-level chargers. Electrify America Senior Director Rober Barrosa stated, "We want to help make the transition to EV charging easier by translating kilowatt ratings into simple names like Hyper-Fast and Ultra-Fast with corresponding colors to help them make a selection at the charger." Related Article: Tesla Supercharger Vs. Electrify America: Which One Offers a Better EV Charging Experience? 2023 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. Samsung Galaxy S23 series, including the Ultra variant, misses out on Android seamless update support, as the renowned phone maker debuts its latest flagship amid the Unpacked event 2023. Android has been offering a "seamless update" feature for quite some time now. However, the South Korean tech giant, Samsung, has been sitting on it. (Photo : by FABRICE COFFRINI/AFP via Getty Images) A man rides an escalator next to a booth of Galaxy mobile phones by Samsung, a main sponsor of the International Olympic Committee, at the Main Press Centre of the 2022 Winter Olympics in Beijing on January 28, 2022. And with its latest flagship lineup, it continues doing so. Samsung Galaxy S23 Series Lacks Android Seamless Update According to a report by GSM Arena, Google introduced the "seamless update" feature of Android to its Pixel phones back in 2016. And since then, other phone makers have adopted the handy option. Well, except for Samsung. And after six years since the Android feature saw the light of day, Samsung still resists bringing the said feature to its latest flagship devices. The South Korean firm recently debuted its all-new Galaxy lineup, including the Galaxy S23, Galaxy S23 Plus, and Galaxy S23 Ultra. However, none of these new Android mobile devices supported the long-awaited "seamless updates" feature, as per 9to5 Google. (Photo : Drew Angerer/Getty Images) DJ Koh, president and CEO of Samsung Electronics, presents the Samsung Galaxy Note 10 smartphone during a launch event at Barclays Center on August 7, 2019 in the Brooklyn borough of New York City. Samsung announced the Galaxy Note 10 and Galaxy Note 10 Plus smartphones. The online news outlet confirmed that the Galaxy S23 series still lacks the update feature. And this does not come off as something surprising anymore, as the renowned phone maker has been resisting supporting it since Google introduced it. And as such, the Galaxy S22, and the flagship series before it, all missed out on the said feature. It remains to be seen if the tech giant plans to bring it to its next-generation flagship, the Galaxy S24. But for now, Galaxy S23 users would continue to miss out on it. But what are Android "seamless updates" exactly? How Android Seamless Update Works Essentially, the "seamless updates" feature on Android devices installs firmware updates without forcing its users to turn off their smartphones while installing the latest release. So with this, it eliminates the annoying downtime that users have to experience when getting their hands on a new update. It should prevent instances wherein users procrastinate on installing updates, as it would no longer turn off their devices for a couple of minutes. And to do so, the "seamless updates" feature uses a secondary partition while installing the latest firmware release. With that, it would only require Android phones to reboot a single time. So it updates phones in the background, and it would be applied later on after a single reboot. Read Also: Samsung Galaxy S23 Series Price: No Hike in the US, Leaked Carrier Info Reveals Why is Samsung Skipping on 'Seamless Updates?' 9to5 Google suggests that Samsung intentionally resists adopting such a feature due to storage concerns. It is worth mentioning that the Android "seamless updates" requires tons of extra internal storage, which would not be ideal for users with only 128 GB. Related Article: Samsung Galaxy Unpacked 2023: Galaxy S23 Ultra's Camera Features are Game Changer! Nightography, Astro Hyperlapse, and MORE 2023 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. Xiaomi, the Chinese electronic giant, has just released its newest user interface (UI) update, the MIUI 14. Following its introduction at the end of last year, the MIUI 14 has now been made available for users worldwide. Experience the Latest UI Update with MIUI 14 on Redmi Note 11 Pro Plus This latest update has several advancements that would deliver an improved user experience. Aside from the performance enhancements and bug fixes, the MIUI 14 update includes several new features. Xiaomi has promised that this new UI update would give users a smoother and more intuitive experience than the previous versions. The MIUI 14 is now available to users worldwide, and Redmi Note 11 Pro Plus device users can also access it. Xiaomi is launching the update through their FOTA service, so the update should be available to the users who will be eligible for the update in their region. Impressive Features of the new MIUI 14 update for the Redmi Note 11 Pro+ According to the story by Giz China, Xiaomi has released MIUI 14, the latest version of their operating system, for the Global Redmi Note 11 Pro+. The update offers users improved system security and the January 2022 security patch. The upgrade brings several exciting features to the Redmi Note 11 Pro+, as explained further in an article by Xiaomi UI, such as improved performance and an all-new design. With the new update, users can expect better, faster, and smoother operations than ever before. Enhancements to Mi Pilot Program and Reduced Power Consumption with MIUI 14 Xiaomi recently announced that MIUI 14, as explained further in an article by Newzonly, is set to be released in the near future. Users will be delighted to know that it has some exciting features. Mi Pilot users will be able to access the version first, while everyone else will be able to use it once it is released, provided there are no issues. A highlight of the new UI will be the ability to uninstall apps that you no longer use but that the system previously prevented. Xiaomi has also demonstrated the success of its photon engine technology, which improves the performance of multi-player games and reduces the power consumption of third-party apps by 22%. Improved Efficiency and Streamlined User Experience with MIUI 14 Users can look forward to a greatly improved speed and fluency with the Android 13 and MIUI 14 combination. Xiaomi state that system fluency has improved by 88%, while power consumption has decreased by 16%. Furthermore, MIUI 14 uses 23% less space than MIUI 13. MIUI 14, the latest version of Xiaomi's mobile interface solution, introduces various features and performance improvements. The update promises better efficiency and a more streamlined experience for users. Read Also: Android 14 Might Turn Phones into Webcams for Laptops, Desktops: Here's How it Works "Super Icons": A Feature for Older Devices to Customize Themes and Expand Phone Look The Chinese tech giant has created a lightweight User Interface focusing on speed, usability, and aesthetics. The redesigned version of MIUI has been engineered for devices with the latest Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 and Snapdragon + chips, optimizing their efficiency and relegating lag or slowdown to a distant memory. For users with older devices, MIUI 14 also offers a new "Super Icons" feature that allows for the display of a greater range of icons on the home page, helping users to customize their themes and expand the look of their phones. Related Article: Apple Blocks iOS 16.2 Downgrades After iOS 16.3 Release for iPhone Users 2023 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. Zelensky discusses all-round support for Ukraine in short and long term with Sunak President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy had a conversation with British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak. "Speaking with Rishi Sunak, I thanked for start training Ukrainian crews on Challengers. We talked about further expanding the capabilities of the Ukrainian army, all-round support for Ukraine in the short & long term. I emphasized: representatives of the aggressor have no place at the Olympic Games in Paris," Zelensky wrote on Twitter. Tesla CEO Elon Musk and his electric vehicle (EV) maker are not liable for securities fraud over a tweet the billionaire entrepreneur posted way back in 2018. The tweet in question claims that Musk already had funding to take the all-electric car maker private. So shareholders recently sued the big boss of Tesla, alleging securities fraud. (Photo : Justin Sullivan/Getty Images) SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - JANUARY 24: Tesla CEO Elon Musk leaves the Phillip Burton Federal Building on January 24, 2023 in San Francisco, California. Elon Musk Found NOT Liable over Tesla Tweet According to a recent report by CNBC, a jury from the San Francisco federal court found Musk and his giant EV firm not liable for securities fraud over tweets that the billionaire posted years ago. It is worth noting that the shareholders of Tesla recently took the new Chief Twit of Twitter, Musk, who also sits as the CEO of SpaceX, to court. These folks sued the tech entrepreneur over a series of tweets that he made roughly four years ago. In his tweets, Musk announced that he had "funding secured" for taking the all-electric car maker private. And he wants the price for each share to the tune of $420. The South China Morning Post reports that the price Musk wants to take his giant firm private is actually 23 percent higher than the share price on that closing day. He went on to tweet, saying that "investor support is confirmed." Thus, Tesla shareholders are saying that Musk lied when he posted that. Since he posted such a tweet, CNBC notes in its report that the share price of the EV maker has started to be more volatile. It has reached extreme lows and peaked with all-time highs. It has persisted for several weeks. Read Also: Elon Musk Locks his Twitter Account to Test Viral Hack to Gain More Visibility-Gets Mocked by Users Musk's Response Despite that, Musk told jurors of the Tesla tweet trial that he was telling the truth in his series of tweets. The Tesla boss stated while he was in the witness box that actually had a verbal commitment from the Sovereign Wealth Fund of Saudi Arabia. He then believes he had already secured the funding needed to take Tesla private. (Photo : OLIVIER DOULIERY/AFP via Getty Images) In this photo illustration, a phone screen displays the Twitter account of Elon Musk with a photo of him shown in the background, on April 14, 2022, in Washington, DC. - Tesla chief Elon Musk has launched a hostile takeover bid for Twitter, insisting it was a "best and final offer" and that he was the only person capable of unlocking the full potential of the platform. But then again, the deal, which he claims to have been closed in a verbal commitment, never materialized. Until today, Tesla has yet to be taken private. And now that Musk was found not liable for fraud over his tweets, he has taken to Twitter to respond. The tech entrepreneur says he is "deeply appreciative of the jury's unanimous findings." He adds that "the wisdom of the people has prevailed!" Related Article: Elon Musk Announces Higher Priced Subscription Tier that Allows Zero Ads 2023 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. According to the Pentagon, a second Chinese spy balloon flew over Latin America at the time when US Secretary of State Antony Blinken postponed a trip to China following the entry of a high-altitude Chinese balloon into US territory, reported first by The Guardian. Second Sighting A day after the first craft was observed over US skies, Pentagon spokesperson Pat Ryder said they are getting reports of a second balloon sighting in Latin America. Although the Pentagon did not give a precise location for the balloon, a US official told CNN that it did not appear to be currently traveling in the direction of the country. Blinken claimed that during a conversation with Wang Yi, China's senior diplomat, in South Korea on Friday, he made it clear that this surveillance balloon in US airspace constitutes a violation of US sovereignty and international law. However, Blinken said he had informed Wang of Washington's commitment to diplomatic talks with China and that he would eventually travel to Beijing when conditions allow. He added that the US is currently getting the surveillance asset out of the country's airspace. A state department representative emphasized that communication between the two nations was still open and that the trip had only been postponed and not canceled, as per The Guardian's report. Blinken's trip to Beijing would have signaled a warming of relations between the two nations ever since the administration of former President Donald Trump. He would have been the first US secretary of state to pay a visit to the country since October 2018. Read also: Pentagon Awards Google, Amazon, Oracle, and Microsoft $9 Billion Contracts to Build a Cloud Computing Network for the US Military China's Response Chinese government representatives said that the flying object was only in US airspace because strong winds blew it off course. The aircraft garnered significant media attention when numerous speculations suggested that China was using it as a spy balloon against the US. China claimed that the alleged spy plane was only a civilian airship. It was made clear by the Chinese government that it was primarily intended for meteorological study and not for espionage. Beijing explained that the airship has limited steering capabilities. This is how the high winds were able to cause it to deviate from the intended course. The intelligence agency said the balloon had been monitored since it passed over the northern United States. According to defense officials, the balloon's flight route may fly over sensitive military areas. However, the Chinese foreign ministry's spokesperson Mao Ning clarified that China has no plans to trample on another nation's airspace or sovereignty. Related Article: Pentagon DIU Official Shares What the US Needs to Remain as Dominant Space Power; Infrastructure Investment, and More 2023 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. ChatGPT recently started making waves in December 2022, but experts are already touting it as the future of tech. However, academics are not so keen on welcoming this AI tool. In fact, two of the most prestigious journals in the academic publishing realm, Science and Springer Nature, have introduced new editorial standards to exclude or severely limit the use of tools such as ChatGPT in writing academic studies. However, a new study may serve as a devil's advocate for these concerns. It claims that it can serve as a research aide for academics and not a threat. "Good Finance Journal" Finance researchers Brian Lucey from Trinity College Dublin and Michael Dowling from Dublin University recently detailed their study's findings in an article published in The Conversation. They claim that ChatGPT could be utilized to write a finance paper that would pass as an academic journal. They first asked the AI tool to produce the four standard parts of a research study: the research problem, related literature, dataset, and testing and examination suggestions. The researchers told ChatGPT that the output should be worthy of being published in a "good finance journal." For another test, they pasted at least 200 abstracts of relevant research studies into the ChatGPT window and asked the program to take these into account in creating the four research stages. They reviewed the answers made by the tool and gave suggestions for improvements to ensure that their expertise is still used in the endeavor. After that, the team requested a panel of 32 reviewers to assess ChatGPT's output. They were asked to determine if it is comprehensive, correct, and can contribute to the field of finance studies. Read also: Fake ChatGPT Apps Start to Steal User Data: Delete These Apps Now Considered Acceptable Lucey and Dowling claim that all these studies were mostly considered acceptable by the panel. This could indicate that the AI tool may be capable of producing quality academic research ideas even though it is still in its infancy. They discovered that different research areas received varying ratings. The dataset and the research proposal were frequently given good ratings. The rating for the literature reviews and testing recommendations was lower but still acceptable. The researchers suspect that ChatGPT is good at taking a set of external texts and connecting them, but it is also weak in complex stages, especially when there are a lot of stages involved in the conceptual process, such as literature reviews and testing. "For now, we think that researchers should see ChatGPT as an aide, not a threat. It may particularly be an aide for groups of researchers who tend to lack the financial resources for traditional (human) research assistance," the researchers wrote in the article. But they also note that academics must be aware of the ban on its use when writing journal papers. It must be used with care because there are varying views on this tool's implications for the academic world. The findings of the team were published in the journal Finance Research Letters. Related Article: Google Invests in ChatGPT Competitor as It Joins AI Race, Gain Access to Claude 2023 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. Bat-like robots could soon be used to find lost people, especially in places that are hard to reach. (Photo : Photo by ANDREAS SOLARO/AFP via Getty Images) A technician (Rear) drives "Spot", a quadruped robot developped by Boston Dynamics, on June 9, 2022 as it is displayed inspecting a tunnel during a presentation to the media at the Archaeological Park of Pompeii, near Naples, southern Italy. This could be possible thanks to the ongoing development conducted by researchers at the University of Toronto. Experts said that they were inspired by bats and other animals with echolocation abilities. Because of this, they decided to work on an advanced echolocation system that can be integrated into robots. Bat-Like Robots Could Soon Help Find Lost People According to Engadget's latest report, the University of Toronto researchers want to give small robots the capability to navigate in hard-to-reach places. (Photo : Photo credit should read THOMAS LOHNES/DDP/AFP via Getty Images) An employee of the zoo in Frankfurt/M. holds a short-tailed leaf-nosed bat during the zoo's annual stocktaking 20 December 2006. The fruit-eating bats are native to Central and South America. The function of their noseleaves is still unknown, but scientists suspect that it plays a role in projection of echolocation calls. Also Read: YouTubers Create a Massive Spider Robot 'Megahex' that May be the Biggest of its Kind Yet They want to do this without relying on expensive components that are too heavy or too large for tiny machines. With their efforts, they were able to achieve their plan. To make this possible, they used an interactive puck robot's audio hardware and developed an audio extension deck using cheap speakers and microphones. They integrated all these components into a tiny flying drone that can fit in the palm of a human's hand. Echolocation System for Small Bots Involved scientists explained their plans in their study titled "Blind as a Bat: Audible Echolocation on Small Robots," which was published in IEEE Robotics and Automation Letters. They proposed using an end-to-end pipeline for sound-based mapping and localization. This component would be designed for robots integrated with low-end microphones and buzzers. "The method is model-based, runs in real time, and requires no prior calibration or training," they explained. As of press time, researchers are still improving their new echolocation tech since it is not as accurate as the existing larger models. They are hoping to create a more accurate echolocation system that only relies on the sounds naturally made by robots. If you want to learn more details about their ongoing echolocation system development, you can visit this link. Other stories we recently wrote about robotics: Previously, a smell-identifying robot was created. We also reported on the development of a new self-healing robot. For more news updates about robots and other machines, keep your tabs open here at TechTimes. Related Article: 'Fairy Robots' Powered by Wind, Light May One Day Become Artificial Pollinators 2023 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. Stopping a destructive asteroid impact is not a walk in the park, even for the U.S. government, NASA, and other space agencies. (Photo : Photo by Alexander Gerst / ESA via Getty Images) In this handout photo provided by the European Space Agency (ESA) on July 17, 2014, German ESA astronaut Alexander Gerst took this image of the Earth reflecting light from the sun whilst aboard the International Space Station (ISS). For the past years, NASA and other space experts have been trying numerous methods to stop space rocks from destroying the planet. "We know that the dinosaurs went extinct by an asteroid or comet that hurt the Earth millions of years ago," said Nancy Chatbot, a Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Lab planetary scientist. She added that what they want to do is to prevent it from happening again in the future. Asteroid Impacts on Earth According to Global News CA's latest report, NASA's estimation shows that Earth is hit by space rocks more than 6,000 times each year. (Photo : Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images) Las Vegas Astronomical Society vice president of special events Keith Caceres uses computer software connected to his telescope to locate asteroid 2014 JO25 outside the Planetarium at the College of Southern Nevada on April 19, 2017 in North Las Vegas, Nevada. Also Read: Asteroid 2022 AP7: Possible Outcomes if Space Rock Hits Earth Shared by New Online Model The latest effort made by NASA to prevent asteroid impacts is the DART (Double Asteroid Redirection Test) mission. The international space union used its DART satellite to hit Dimorphos, a space rock orbiting a larger asteroid called Didymos. The mission was a success since DART's impact delayed the orbit of Dimorphos by 32 minutes. This means that if a large asteroid is heading towards Earth, NASA can use another DART satellite to change the space rock's path. Other Asteroid Impact Solutions The DART satellite is not the only solution considered by the U.S. government and NASA to stop a destructive asteroid impact. Space.Com provided other asteroid impact solutions that could be used as a last resort. These include the following: Nuclear weapons (The United States and other countries have powerful nuclear bombs that could change the trajectory of asteroids. But, these weapons should be detonated a few hundred meters away from the space rock to be effective) (The United States and other countries have powerful nuclear bombs that could change the trajectory of asteroids. But, these weapons should be detonated a few hundred meters away from the space rock to be effective) Ion propulsion (Experts also consider using ion propulsion; propulsion that relies on electrified or charged molecules) (Experts also consider using ion propulsion; propulsion that relies on electrified or charged molecules) The "Armageddon"-like an explosion (Just like in the 1998 "Armageddon" movie, scientists also consider detonating a powerful bomb under the surface of a large asteroid. However, sending astronauts there would be difficult) In other news, astronomers identified an asteroid three hours before crashing into Lake Ontario. We also reported about a skyscraper-sized asteroid that was supposed to fly toward Earth last November 2022. For more news updates about asteroids and other space objects, keep your tabs open here at TechTimes. Related Article: This Dinosaur-Killing Asteroid Caused the Greatest Tsunami on Earth, New Study Says 2023 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. Since its inception in 2004 by Harvard student Mark Zuckerberg, Facebook has come a long way. What began as a controversial platform for judging the attractiveness of fellow students has evolved into one of the most popular social media platforms, with over 2 billion users. Since it is Facebook's birthday today, this article will provide an exhaustive rundown of the top ten Facebook facts you may not have known before. Bigger Than Europe Facebook has more users than the population of Europe: With over 2 billion users, Facebook has more people connected to it than the entire population of Europe, which is estimated to be around 446.8 million people as of 2022. As per Meta's fourth-quarter earnings report, there are now 2 billion daily active users on the social network. Based on the report, Facebook has now surpassed 2 billion daily users for the first time after adding 16 million users in the previous quarter. Record Earnings Forbes reports that Facebook's fourth-quarter earnings surpassed estimates, which caused its share price to rise by 23%. This spike in the share price led to a $12 billion increase in the net worth of Facebook's founder, Mark Zuckerberg, making it his biggest one-day increase since Facebook went public in 2012. Zuckerberg still ranks as the 16th richest person in the world, with a net worth of $66.8 billion, despite experiencing some financial setbacks in 2022. Read Also: Elon Musk Announces New Feature on Twitter: Earn Ad Revenue from Ads in Reply Threads How Facebook Started "The Facebook," as it was then known, was introduced by Mark Zuckerberg on February 4, 2004. Facemash, an online program that Zuckerberg was mainly responsible for making, was the first step on his way to creating Facebook in 2003. The idea of the app was for students to rate their peers, who were also using the program, based on their attractiveness. With 450 students signing up right away, the website was initially successful. But if you watched the movie "The Social Network," you probably already know what happened next was rough for Mark. A New Culture Collins English Dictionary named "Facebook" its new word of the year in 2008. The following year, the verb "unfriend" was selected as the word of the year by the New Oxford American Dictionary. This demonstrates Facebook's enormous impact on the English language and the world at large. Also, the movie mentioned a while ago went on to win three Oscars. Facebook is a Weird Place In December 2022, a fugitive from Georgia assisted local law enforcement in apprehending him after commenting on the Rockdale County Sheriff's Office's Facebook page. The Sheriff's Office had published a "Most Wanted List," to which a man named Christopher Spaulding replied, "How about me?" This comment resulted in his arrest. Facebook Hackers for Hire Normally, when dealing with hackers, websites would exercise extreme caution, but Facebook is something else. Facebook announced its Bug Bounty Program on July 29, 2011, which paid security researchers a minimum of $500 for reporting security holes. The company said it wouldn't go after "white hat" hackers who found these flaws. This drew researchers from all over the world, including India and Russia. Facebook Photo Uploads According to an article published in Search Engine Journal, Facebook users have uploaded more than 250 billion photos, which equates to approximately 350 million photos being uploaded to Facebook every single day. That is a lot of photos to scroll through. Download Your Facebook History You can save a copy of everything you have ever posted on Facebook by going to "Settings," clicking on "Your Facebook Information," and then selecting "Download Your Information" from the drop-down menu that appears. You will receive a copy of every chat conversation, every post you have shared on the platform, and anything else you have done while using the platform. Ready for a #ThrowbackThursday? Facebook Addiction Disorder Despite the fact that "Facebook addiction" is not officially recognized as a disorder, researchers say it is becoming more of a problem, particularly among young people. According to a UK study, Facebook Addiction Disorder (FAD) fully mediated the significant positive relationship between narcissism and stress symptoms, demonstrating that narcissistic people are more likely to develop FAD. Facebook Numbers Based on Statista data, as of December 2022, 23.7 percent of Facebook users in the United States were between the ages of 25 and 34, constituting Facebook's largest audience in the country. Meanwhile, teen users account for approximately one in every twenty Facebook users aged 13 to 17 years. Furthermore, women were slightly more likely than men to use the platform. Facebook, the world's largest social networking site, has been under fire in recent years for a number of issues, including allegations of privacy breaches and the creation of strange metaverse avatars. However, despite these controversies, there are still many things to celebrate about Facebook. Stay posted here at Tech Times. Related Article: How to Switch On Professional Mode on Facebook and Why it's Important 2023 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. Egypt and Turkey have agreed on a timeframe for upgrading diplomatic relations, Egyptian Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry said on Thursday during a joint press conference with his Turkish counterpart Mevlut Cavusoglu in Ankara. During the pilot phase of the pre-marriage examination initiative, which began late February, Egypt conducted pre-marriage medical examinations for 110,000 individuals intending to get married, according to Minister of Health and Population Khaled Abdel-Ghaffar. Baker District One City Councilman Charles Vincent places books Thursday, August 22, 2019 into one of four 'Little Free Libraries' in Baker, this one near City Park, in front of the Baker Chamber of Commerce building at 3439 Groom Road. Later Thursday, he stocked a simliar station on Sandra St. near Myrtle, and two others were already operational at Circle Baptist Church on Morvant Rd., and at the entrance to Feliciana subdivision on Plank Rd. Funds for construction and installation of the library boxes came from a grant from Entergy, through the non-profit founded and headed by Vincent called the 'Mwalimu Institute: For the Study of People of African Descent in the Western Hemisphere.' Mwalimu is a Swahili word meaning teacher or professor. Books (mostly donated) are taken on the honor system, and are accompanied by a slogan on the front of the box: 'Take a book. Share a book.' Representatives from nine Arab countries will meet in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia on Friday to discuss their stance and moves to end the decade-long isolation of President Bashar Al-Assad, Arab diplomats said Tuesday. A week after the excerpts of his essay in The Monthly first dropped in national newspapers, its safe to say that Jim Chalmers is feeling besieged. The essay has spawned dozens of articles and opinion pieces and left or right few have had good things to say about the treasurers words. Economist Steve Hamilton argued in these pages that the essay is full of kumbaya capitalist thought bubbles, which he criticised for not being sufficiently left-wing. Meanwhile, other newspapers fretted over the market interventionism heralded by the essay, which ignores the lessons of Hawke and Keating. Corporates were said to wake in fright. Treasurer Jim Chalmers has written a 6000-word essay arguing for a rethink on capitalism. Credit: Alex Ellinghausen It must have felt like a deluge. Chalmers has been a star communicator in the Albanese government to date. During the election campaign, it sometimes seemed like he alone understood and could articulate Labors economic position. He has good relationships in business circles, where his charm and humour make him well-liked. But when the essay was published, suddenly everyone turned against him. And for ideas which Chalmers maintains are mundanely mainstream. So what went wrong? Economist and CEO of the Grattan Institute, Danielle Wood, says the essay acts like a Rorschach test for the reader. That seems like an excellent way to understand why the reaction to Chalmers manifesto has been so consistently incensed. From the first slur of neoliberalism to the last invocation of public-private co-creation, the treasurer has managed to pack in something for almost everyone to hate. Perhaps thats why the case feels somehow loosely connected to the #MeToo movement - though really, there are very few even remotely similar incidents with which it can be bracketed. When the story broke, many drew comparisons with the fatal shooting of Brandon Lee during the making of The Crow in 1993. That film, Rusts producers will have surely noted, was released just seven months later, and Lees death became part of its mythology. But in that case, the relevant district attorney said he had found no evidence of wilful and wanton negligence, and no criminal charges were filed. Nor was the man holding the weapon also a producer, whose job involved maintaining a safe and disciplined set. The actor who fired the shot on The Crow, Michael Massee, withdrew from the business for a year. Baldwin, by contrast, has remained staunchly in the public eye, making three further features. One is another project from one of Rusts producers, Anjul Nigam - an action thriller called 97 Minutes, shot in Hampshire last year and slated for release next month - while the others were Italian-made Christmas comedies, Kid Santa and Billies Magic World. There was of course also the flatteringly lit interview on CNN last August, in which the actor protested his innocence and heaped blame on Gutierrez-Reed and Halls. Will the charges leave Baldwin un-castable in Hollywood? Truth is, the Hollywood work for which he was known - the half-suave, half-sharklike character turns stretching from Beetlejuice to Motherless Brooklyn - had essentially petered out by 2020 anyway. And one last Boss Baby voice gig aside, hes since found himself in the churn-and-burn video-on-demand ecosystem of which Rust was (and apparently may yet still be) a part. Whatever happens now, up to and including prison, there are corners of that system that would welcome him back: just look at Kevin Spacey and Johnny Depp, both still gainfully employed post-disgrace. The career Baldwin would have lost was already over. But if cinema still has places for Depp and Spacey, you had better believe it can find one for him too. Its a fact that were filling, freezing, plumping and lasering our faces more than ever before. According to the Australasian College of Cosmetic Surgery and Medicine, Australians spend more than $1 billion each year on cosmetic procedures. Part of this uptick can be blamed on our faces constantly being on screen, whether via social media, taking selfies or greeting our colleagues on Zoom. Dont rush into something just because its easy or convenient, warns Dr Richard Westreich. Credit: iStock The increase in procedures has led to a new beauty buzz word, bundling. This refers to having a number of procedures at once under one anaesthetic to curtail costs and reduce time spent under anaesthesia. An example would be having a facelift, eyelid surgery and brow and neck lift in one fell swoop. American cosmetic surgeon Dr Richard Westreich adds a word of caution about this practice though. Dont rush into something just because its easy or convenient, he says. Virtual consults have streamlined the process and tightened the time line between concept and completion, but my advice to people is to go back to the mindset before the Zoom boom as there is no substitute for face-to-face consultation. If going under the knife isnt appealing, specialists such as Sydneys Dr Joseph Hkeik at All Saints Clinic are also offering clients a range of non-invasive treatments as a bundle (in Melbourne, try Dr Gavin Chan at The Victorian Cosmetic Institute). This story is part of the February 5 edition of Sunday Life. See all 13 stories . Save Log in , register or subscribe to save articles for later. Save articles for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them any time. Got it Normal text size Larger text size Very large text size As a blizzard blew on a February afternoon in 2010, a 22-year-old US army intelligence officer on leave from Iraq sat down in the cafe of a Barnes & Noble store in Rockville, Maryland. Over the following hours, Bradley Manning wrestled with the shops stuttering Wi-Fi to upload stashes of military files to WikiLeaks, the whistleblowing site set up by Julian Assange. By the time she was done, she had released nearly half a million reports of enemy engagements, explosions and body counts. On her return, she made WikiLeaks other offerings, including videos of apparently gratuitous killings during a US helicopter attack on Baghdad and of a strike on an Afghan village that killed perhaps 147 civilians. Her hope, hoped against hope perhaps, was that by airing these disasters, the consoling, half-accepted narratives of Americas wars of liberation would skew towards her perception of things, which was that they were a chaotic, self-inflaming and unwinnable attempt to establish American regional hegemony by fear. Instead, most verifiably, her torrential leak changed Mannings life. The Pentagon and US president Barack Obama saw in their young, unhappy, perhaps misguided, but undoubtedly brave recruit, another enemy. Arrested that May, she was confined for 49 days to a cage she believed better suited to a large animal. There followed incarceration in a marine base in Quantico, Virginia, where, a United Nations investigation later ruled, her treatment violated her human right not to be tortured. In 2011, she was transferred to Fort Leavenworth military prison in Kansas, her home for the next six years. Loading At her 2012 court martial, Manning was convicted of espionage and theft (although exonerated of abetting the enemy) and sentenced to 35 years in jail. Twice in 2016 she tried to take her own life, the second time while in solitary confinement a punishment, as she saw it, for surviving her first attempt. Advertisement Bradley Manning is now Chelsea Manning. I wont be using her deadname again. For continuitys sake and out of respect, Ill also keep to feminine pronouns even though much of her story happened before her transition from male to female. She was released in 2017 when Obama, conceding the punishment had been disproportionate, used presidential clemency to commute her sentence and release her. But during those seven years in jail, had she not wished she had never stepped into the bookshop? Thats not how I saw it, the 35-year-old says. I thought for sure that my life was never going to take off in general. I had been homeless. I had been working two jobs to try to make ends meet and feeling like I had no direction. Thats what drove me into the military. Ive always had this sense of futility that nothing will ever go right, that Ill never be successful, that nothing will ever work and that bad things are just always going to happen to me. Thats how I feel. I think that my life could have been better if a few things had been different. Ive always had this sense of futility that nothing will ever go right, that Ill never be successful, that nothing will ever work and that bad things are just always going to happen to me. By a few things, she must mean her parents. Her father is a violent former navy man about the same height as her (158cm) with extreme notions of masculinity. Her Welsh mother was an alcoholic. Her history family estrangement, homelessness, low-paid jobs, dropping out of college, relationships formed mainly online, gender confusion was, she thinks, merely an extreme version of what many people in my generation went through. Yet how hard her life must have been for her to believe the US military might offer respite. Her backstory lies at odds with the petite and elegant young woman I am sitting with. She wears her hair long, undoubtedly a reaction to the crew cuts enforced in jail. She began transitional hormone therapy in prison but received bottom surgery in 2018. It was pretty straightforward. I had a good doctor. I dont talk about it much. I think theres a hesitancy for the military to acknowledge that its training is a PTSD factor: it is essentially putting people under conditions that give them traumatic amounts of stress. Credit:Daniel Kennedy/The Times Magazine/News Licensing Advertisement The army had diagnosed her with mild Aspergers syndrome. Does she think she is neurotypical? I dont think Im as neuro-atypical as Ive been portrayed. The two diagnoses that Ive been able to address now are complex PTSD [post-traumatic stress disorder] and, obviously, gender dysphoria, which I spent the subsequent years after the court martial addressing finally. My life is just so much better now and so much more functional. Although the army had to be persuaded of the gender dysphoria? Yes, but shockingly I think I was more successful getting treatment for that than getting acknowledgement of the fact that I had complex PTSD. I think theres a hesitancy for the military to acknowledge that its training is a PTSD factor: it is essentially putting people under conditions that give them traumatic amounts of stress. Loading And surely, I say, there would have been something wrong if she had not been sent slightly crazy by what she had seen in her job. The intelligence she analysed was not just numerical data but video footage, written reports, and testimony from enemy prisoners and informers. A particular incident hit her hard and personally. In December 2009, a night raid to capture a target she had been tracking for weeks went badly wrong because the soldiers used two-year-old information rather than the data she had newly updated. In consequence, they stormed the wrong address in east Baghdad, killing a dozen presumably innocent people while the intended target disappeared. I felt my head being done in every single day. It was chaos. It was drinking from a fire hose. To her superiors it was a dry haul, a mission fail. To her it was a trail of unnecessary deaths that might have been avoided had she not gone on a dinner break at the crucial moment. Was that when she realised the job was doing her head in? No, I felt my head being done in every single day. It was chaos. It was drinking from a fire hose. Advertisement A few weeks later, on New Years Eve, she decided to act. Her downloaded Iraq and Afghanistan war logs were transferred to a storage card. Thirty-six days later she was in Barnes & Noble. She sent her README.txt file with a cover note to WikiLeaks explaining it revealed the true nature of 21st-century asymmetric warfare but adding that the files had been sanitised of any source-identifying information. Her view remains that the data cost no US lives, and her eventual prosecutors singularly failed to prove otherwise. The damage to the reputation of the United States was another matter. Did she assume she would be found out and punished? I mean, yes and no. I think I knew it would be found out. At the very least, forensics could get you down to my office. But the consequences? Nobody had ever gone to prison for this before. I was the first, and there were no examples of a person being confined in solitary confinement for a year. People ask me why my book stops at 2017, at the commutation of my sentence. Its because thats where my life really begins. Credit:Daniel Kennedy/The Times Magazine/News Licensing The isolation was brutal. In the cage, she did not know what she had been charged with, had no access to a lawyer, no access to the news. Of all her later punishments in prison sleep deprivation, verbal abuse, fights her spells of solitary confinement were what she feared and hated most. Her greatest consolation was mail from well-wishers; she received 270,000 letters in custody. Shes not sure why the army treated her so viciously, but her guess is that the idea of leaking secrets online was new and the government wished to strangle it at birth. Nevertheless at Fort Leavenworth, Manning, who describes herself as an extrovert, gradually regained her ability to socialise. Preparing for the court martial with her lawyers provided another route back to civilisation. Some of the legal conversations were about her gender dysphoria. She announced she was trans in 2013 and, following legal petitions, in 2015 she became the first person in a US military prison to receive feminising hormone therapy. Advertisement Two years after being released from prison in 2017, while recovering from her gender reassignment surgery, she was held in contempt of court for refusing to testify before a grand jury into the 2010 leaks. For one more year she was jailed, this time in a civilian womens prison, but again she suffered a period of solitary confinement. I spent so many years trying to earn his love and it just was never going to work out. I assume prison is also a microcosm of the toxic masculinity she had first experienced from her father? Yeah, definitely. My father was very harsh with me, very intense. I wanted him to love me and to respect me. I wanted to feel unconditional love but I felt it was very conditional and dependent on what I did. I spent so many years trying to earn his love and it just was never going to work out. He was quite abusive with me. She has no relationship with him now. Her mother died two years ago, from alcoholism. Not unexpectedly. She had previously survived two major strokes. Mannings belief that bad things are always going to happen has translated into fears for America in general. Secrecy, she thinks, is no longer the real battle, but verification is. Everything is online, but far from everything is true. She feels less inclined these days to engage with social media or share information and would prefer to give a lecture than compose a post that goes viral. She lives in Brooklyn in a neighbourhood peopled by musicians, writers and artists but keeps a place in Maryland where her fathers sister, to whom she is close, lives. For a living, she owns a small private security consultancy that assesses risks for private clients and provides security, physical and digital. Advertisement Anything that falls short of quality care is unacceptable, she said. We wont hesitate to take action to address any risk. Melissa, whose surname has been withheld for privacy reasons, welcomed the development but said for her, it was too late. They cant give me back my nursing career, she said. Life in order Melissas childhood was not easy. She spent years in and out of foster care, dealing with an abusive mother and a drug-dealer father, who killed himself when she was a teenager. At age 16, she was homeless when her best friends family took her in and changed the course of her life. I never thought I would be able to go to university and achieve goals, she said. But I had a family who helped me get my life in order. Melissa complained to the ombudsman about AHPRAs conduct, who has ordered the regulator to apologise. Credit: Ben Searcy She found a job and eventually completed a bridging course to enrol in a Bachelor of Nursing at the University of South Australia. She already had experience working in disability support, and wanted to build a career helping others. But that all changed in her third year during a clinical placement at a psychiatric ward in an Adelaide hospital. Her brother was critically ill in hospital at the time, when she took prescription valium and texted her senior colleague from home. He said, Let me come check on you, sounds like youre not in a safe space, she said. I was sedated. He took advantage of me in that space. I wasnt able to push him off. Loading What Melissa alleged was rape, she said her senior colleague would later claim was consensual. She reported him to the police, the university and AHPRA but would ultimately feel let down by all three. While AHPRA has powers to suspend practitioners accused of sexual misconduct, it did not, and instead opened an investigation into Melissas fitness to study nursing. I reported it to AHPRA because thats what I thought was the correct thing to do, she said. It ended up being a nightmare. After taking no action against her alleged rapist, AHPRA investigators trawled through Melissas medical records, which revealed a history of self-harm [two episodes at age 11 and 16, the year before her father killed himself] and a more recent diagnosis of anxiety and depression. Loading Then aged 28, Melissa admitted to taking prescription medication and occasionally using illicit drugs. She consented to provide a urine sample, but declined to take part in a hair test. In the end, AHPRA banned Melissa from clinical practice for 12 months, but that was only the beginning of her struggles with the regulator. I felt very victim blamed, she said. There was no process outlined for me for what happens after that. So, I thought it was like a prison sentence, you wait 12 months and you get your registration back. But it was not. Three years later, Melissa sought to re-enroll in a Bachelor of Nursing at Flinders University. This triggered an automatic message to be sent from AHPRA to the university about Melissas historical conditions. The ombudsman would later find this disclosure was unlawful as it breached privacy provisions in the National Law and Australian Privacy Principles. This situation should not be allowed to occur again. In my view, there is no need, or legal basis, for AHPRA to disclose current or historical conditions, restrictions or undertakings to education providers at this early stage, the ombudsmans report states. The alert instructed the university to contact AHPRA for further information, but when the university followed these instructions, they were told no information could be provided without Melissas consent. This created what the ombudsman described as a catch-22 and stalemate which unfairly prevented Melissa from continuing with her studies. Eventually, she was forced to disclose the alleged rape and her previous conditions to the university. Thereafter, she was treated differently, she said, and one staff member openly talked about the AHPRA investigation. Theres a lot of stigma attached to what Ive been through. And despite Melissa eventually receiving clearances from AHPRA and her doctors to complete all requirements of the nursing course, the university prevented her from completing clinical placements, a key part of the degree. At the end of the day, the university has the last say. It was a dead end, Melissa said. Exhausted, she gave up on university and complained to AHPRA about her treatment. In a letter dated October 2020, the regulator acknowledged that multiple emails she sent had not been responded to, but ultimately denied responsibility for the universitys decision. While empathetic towards your current situation, AHPRA and the board unfortunately have no control or influence over the decisions of an educational institution, AHPRA wrote. Melissa then appealed to the ombudsman. And now, more than two years later, the ombudsman has handed down her findings. While the investigation did not extend to AHPRAs initial evaluation of the alleged rape, it found the disclosure of her historical conditions to Flinders University was unlawful and ordered AHPRA to issue a written apology. The ombudsman found the information AHPRA held about Melissa was inaccurate, incomplete and out-of-date and its processes failed to take into account the particularly vulnerable position of students under investigation, who unlike employed health practitioners, are not supported by lawyers and powerful insurance companies. It identified systemic deficits in AHPRAs systems and made a number of recommendations, including improving messaging and support services for students under investigation. In a statement issued on Friday, Ombudsman Richelle McCausland said she preferred to work collaboratively with AHPRA to ensure compliance, although she has powers to take court action to enforce penalties, which can reach up to $50 million for breaches under new privacy laws. McCausland said AHPRA had been responsive to suggestions for improvement in the past, but there are some areas where the ombudsman has raised concerns over a number of years, including delays and inadequate communication during its investigations. She said AHPRAs processes for dealing with students are not well developed. It is important that AHPRA focuses on implementing appropriate and quality processes to ensure personal information on the student register is accurate and appropriately protected from inappropriate disclosure, she said. My office ... will keep AHPRA accountable for complying with the Privacy Act. A spokesman for AHPRA said it could not comment on individual matters but that the regulator would carefully consider recommendations from the ombudsman, and act on these both in terms of the individual complainant involved and any wider changes that may be needed to improve procedures in the future. For Melissa, it has been a devastating experience that she hopes no one else will endure. While she feels somewhat vindicated by the ombudsmans findings, she said there was no sense of justice. She is yet to receive a formal apology from AHPRA. I cant go back to nursing now. I physically cannot do it. Id love to, but at the same time Ive experienced such a horrible side of the regulator and the education providers and its just a hot mess. Melissa believes the system needs to be overhauled, with greater funding, more specialised investigators and better processes to protect people who are vulnerable. During the state election campaign ahead of last Novembers poll, the Labor government promised to increase elective surgery to 125 per cent of pre-pandemic levels, with an extra 40,000 operations to be undertaken this year. But as The Sunday Age has reported in recent weeks, serious doubts are being cast over the ability of the $1.5 billion plan to clear the massive backlog of tens of thousands of Victorians including cancer patients waiting for surgery. Melbourne orthopaedic surgeon John Cunningham said there was a close link between growing waiting lists and patients self-funding surgery. Giddins is now able to ride his bikes again. Credit: Penny Stephens Many patients will say, Oh, but we have savings we can dip into, and then I see their faces drop when I tell them how much it is going to cost, Cunningham said. What people dont realise is that there is always a risk that the costs of surgery could increase considerably if theres a complication. The sharp pain in Ray Giddins right hip appeared almost overnight. A lifelong cyclist, Giddins was left bedridden, describing it as like having a great big knife digging into his groin. Loading It just hobbled me; I could hardly walk in the end, said the 73-year-old Torquay man. The retired electrician needed a hip replacement but faced waiting for years on the public waiting list. Giddins immediately signed up for health insurance but faced a year before it would cover treatment of pre-existing conditions. When I began moaning in agony in my sleep, my wife said to me, For goodness sake! You just need to get this done, Giddins said. The pain was too horrific to wait any longer. He dipped into a family inheritance, becoming one of a growing number of people who are self-funding surgery to skip public waiting lists, which lengthened to create record delays during the pandemic. Cunningham, who describes his public waiting list as catastrophic, said it was becoming more common for patients to take money out their superannuation to pay for surgery. Complex surgery, such as spinal fusions, could cost between $40,000 and $50,000. The surgeon advises people to sign up for private health insurance if they can afford it, to ensure they are covered for any complications or rehabilitation. Loading As a population, we really need to be encouraging people to take their private health insurance again if they can, he said. The public hospital system should now almost be seen as the last resort. Australian Patients Association chief executive Stephen Mason said there was a pronounced rise in people living in chronic pain searching for alternatives to public waiting lists. If its life-threatening, like heart surgery or cancer, you understandably go to the top of the list, Mason said. But if you badly need a hip replacement which is causing severe pain and disability, youll be waiting years. In rarer cases, people were so desperate they were taking out loans or second mortgages to fund surgery. Ive got no qualms if people want to pay $30,000 or $40,000 if they can afford it, Mason said. Im concerned about vulnerable people, who are dipping into their super fund, or organising loans they cant afford. Giddins hip replacement surgery at Western Private Hospital cost about $28,000. Once Medicare rebates were subtracted, he was out of pocket about $20,000. Data from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, which does not include figures from last year, shows 3.5 per cent of all surgery in hospitals is self-funded. Self-funded surgery accounted for about 7.6 per cent of operations at private hospitals. However, this included cosmetic surgery patients, who are not eligible for Medicare or private health insurance funding. There were 414,941 Australians who self-funded surgery in 2020-21 compared with 332,001 in the previous year. Giddins, a self-funded retiree, counts himself lucky he was able to afford to self-fund. The wait times are an absolute and utter disgrace, he said. After working hard and paying taxes my whole life, I feel very let down by our governments. It has been more than three months since his surgery, and last week Giddins went on his first 26-kilometre bike ride along the Great Ocean Road. I feel fantastic, he said. My wife has started calling me Superman. A spokeswoman for Australias Consumer Health Forum said growing wait times for surgery nationally, but particularly in Victoria, have meant rising numbers of people were seeking out self-funded surgery. While we understand the need for some people to access their super to fund surgery, we would hope this would be a last resort, she said. For whom Pell tolls We must not neglect the malign influences of the late cardinal beyond responses to paedophilia. Despite his Oxford PhD, George Pell vociferously denigrated the scientific consensus on climate change, providing support for the laggard responses of Tony Abbott and the Coalition. As archbishop, he repeatedly refused Communion to LGBTQ activists and their families, though the Gospels show Jesus welcoming everyone to his table. Pell was also a prime mover of the 2010 English translation for the Mass, a clunky, literalist version foisted upon local bishops by the Vatican. These are emblematic of the rigid arrogance that emptied so many churches, even as Pope Francis makes Herculean efforts to promote the ethos of the founder of Christianity. Abbotts backhander So according to Tony Abbott, George Pell is the greatest Catholic Australia has ever produced. Bit of a backhander to St Mary MacKillop, Bob Maguire and Brigid Arthur and the thousands of priests, nuns and lay people who worked to establish the Catholic Church in our country. Taxes for health How refreshing to hear positive comments from our politicians, healthcare practitioners and experts in the field on the need to restore confidence in our national health scheme, Medicare, and their desire and will to upgrade the scheme to provide good quality healthcare for all Australians. Times, health practices and expectations of medical care have changed dramatically since the introduction of the national health scheme 40 years ago and it is to our present detriment that significant changes have not occurred progressively over the years. A catch-up is urgently needed. The inevitable need for additional funding will create budget pressures, and the community will need to understand that taxes will need to rise in order to ensure that we continue to have a universal health system. Ray Cleary, Camberwell Keep the system While I appreciate the arguments in favour of more funding for government schools, I am strongly opposed to Jenna Prices demand (Comment, 1/2) to defund private schools. The parents who send their children to these schools arent all rich. And even if they are, they are taxpayers. Therefore, the schools they are sending their kids to are entitled to a fair share of government funding. Fundamentally, there is an understanding in our democracy that parents have the right to choose the school they send their kids to whether it be based on a perception about results or a regard for the values the school represents. Whatever ideologues such as Ms Price say, this is not going to change, and nor should it. Ivan Glynn, Vermont Hiding the greed When Midnight Oil sang, And nothings as precious as a hole in the ground (Blue Sky Mining) they almost got it right a landfill site is far more precious than a mine. Mining puts greed and self-interest on display; landfill lets us hide it. The French constitutional court on Friday approved the key elements of President Emmanuel Macron's controversial pension reform, while rejecting certain parts of the legislation. If the bumper sales of cute kangaroo and koala souvenirs are anything to go by, Victorias international tourism numbers are bouncing back from the pandemic-driven doldrums. Talia Klein, who runs Poppies Nursery and Cafe in Anglesea, south-west of Melbourne, said she had sold out of Aussie-themed gifts. People were obviously travelling from overseas and wanted to take gifts back, she said. Talia Klein at Poppies Nursery and Cafe in Anglesea has noticed that international tourists are back and has had to order more stock of kangaroo and koala souvenirs. Credit: Penny Stephens And the stats back that up, with international arrivals up more than 500 per cent year on year. A stolen car flipped on its roof and slid across three lanes on Melbournes West Gate Bridge in the early hours of Saturday morning, leaving police hunting for a trio who fled the scene. The orange Toyota Corolla was spotted speeding and weaving through traffic from the city on the bridge about 1am. The stolen car clipped another vehicle and flipped on the West Gate Bridge about 1am Saturday. Credit: Nine News As it got to the top of the bridge it clipped another car before it flipped onto the roof and slid across traffic, police said. A man and two women were trapped in the car but when passersby freed them, they fled the scene. The driver in the other car was unharmed. People who use anabolic steroids should receive similar treatment to drug addicts, a group of Australian doctors say, with concerns those who become hooked on the muscle-building injections are being left without support. Melbourne GP Dr Beng Eu is one of three doctors presenting on the subject at an international medicine conference this month. He said the approach from state health departments was too limited, focusing on providing harm-minimisation strategies to users who actively seek it out, such as information about needle safety. A group of doctors say anabolic steroid users require better health support. We need to realise that for some people steroid use can become a bit of an addiction: it is hard to come off because of its addictive qualities, psychologically but also physically, he said. These people are used to a level of testosterone in their system, and if you remove it, they feel tired, lethargic, depressed; their hormones will be very, very low and some will take six months to recover. Sydney home sellers have become accustomed to dropping price expectations in the market downturn, but some home values are holding up better than others as prices fall. Sellers of quality family homes are best placed as the Sydney property market returns for another year, with more than 1500 homes already scheduled to go under the hammer this month and thousands more to be listed for sale. Sydneys four-bedroom median house price fell 3.3 per cent last year. House prices more broadly fell more than 10 per cent. Credit: Peter Rae The median price for four-bedroom houses in Sydney fell 3.3 per cent last year to $1.35 million, while three-bedroom houses dropped 5.7 per cent and two-bedroom houses dropped 10.5 per cent, Domain data shows. Sydneys stratified median house price fell 10.9 per cent by comparison, while the unit median fell 6.5 per cent. Madrid: Gibraltar accused Spain of a gross violation of British sovereignty after two customs officials entered the British overseas territory during an anti-smuggling operation. Early on Thursday, Madrid time, two Spanish customs agents were injured after rocks were thrown at them on a Gibraltar beach. Their small boat had lost power while chasing suspected tobacco smugglers, according to Spanish media reports. A view of Gibraltar as seen from La Linea, Spain. Credit: AP In a video of the incident on Spanish daily El Pais website, the smugglers are seen shouting This is Gibraltar. This is not your job! Other videos on social media appear to show shots fired during the altercation, but it is not clear who fired them. The Biden administration knew it had to exercise extreme caution especially in what was a heated political environment ahead of 2024 elections, with Republicans agitating on which party could strike a harder or tougher line on China. As the balloon continued to hover over the Big Sky state on Wednesday, Biden huddled with his national security team to receive a detailed briefing on the balloon. The President argued for shooting the object down, but was urged against doing so by his most senior military advisers. US President Joe Biden was keen to shoot down the balloon. Credit: Bloomberg Secretary of Defence Lloyd Austin and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Mark A. Milley insisted that such a move would put civilians at risk, people familiar with the discussions said. The President ultimately decided to let the balloon continue on its way as the US sought answers from the Chinese embassy in Washington, but they struggled to obtain satisfactory responses. US officials said they were baffled by China, which itself appeared to be caught off-guard by the bizarre incident. For now, the White House opted not to inform the American public. Events, however, soon forced Bidens hand. On Thursday afternoon, the Billings Gazette, a local Montana paper, published a photo of the balloon meaning it was only a matter of time until national media would pick up on the report and the Biden administration would have to face questions. Loading The pace of discussions in the White House quickened. In a call starting at 5.15pm on Thursday, the administration finally went public. That spurred a rush to brief lawmakers on Capitol Hill. The Biden administration will hold a briefing next week for the Gang of Eight, a group of lawmakers including the chairs and ranking members of the House and Senate intelligence committees. In an effort to keep things calm, administration officials stressed this was not the first such incident and that similar activities had been observed over the past several years, including during the prior administration. The Pentagons announcement prompted an outcry from Republicans. Former President Donald Trump posted on his Truth Social website to shoot down the balloon. Others, from former Secretary of State Michael Pompeo to Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene, framed the decision not to shoot down the balloon as a sign of weakness by Biden. The biggest question was how would China respond to all the furore that was unfolding at a rapid pace as Asia was asleep. After earlier calling on the US to refrain from hyping the incident, China finally commented on the balloon directly in a statement Friday morning Washington time, attributing it to a force majeure for which it was not responsible. China said the balloon blew off course and entered US airspace by accident, adding that it is regretful over the incident and that the balloons purpose was climate research. Administration officials are privately dismissive of Beijings explanation, as are former American intelligence analysts. The official Chinese explanation mirrored a well-worn excuse for aerial espionage. I do not know of anyone who constructs a meteorological balloon the size of three school buses, said Dennis Wilder, the Central Intelligence Agencys former deputy assistant director for East Asia and the Pacific. Chinese President Xi Jinping says the balloon was collecting weather data. Credit: AP US officials, who had spent hours debating whether Blinken should scrap a long-planned trip to Beijing, finally felt they had no choice but to postpone the first high-level US visit to China in five years. A delay was not a cancellation. It sent a signal that the US had no desire to escalate matters. The sentiment among those in the room was that the trip wasnt worth the potential domestic political costs of going, given that Blinkens talks in China were not expected to yield much in the first place. Bidens team worried that the incident would serve as more fodder for Republicans who believed the administration is weak on China, especially if the balloon crashed and hurt someone while Blinken was in Beijing. A split screen of a spy satellite over the United States when Secretary Blinken lands in Beijing would not have been tenable, said Ryan Hass, a senior fellow at the Brookings Institution and a former Director for China, Taiwan and Mongolia on the National Security Council. Meanwhile, the balloon continued its voyage eastward across the continental US, heading toward Washington. The balloon is not going away, said Wilder, the former CIA officer. The problem, he said, is that China has no way to take it back so it will drift over the continental US for an unknown time frame before coming down. Until then, Americans will keep taking pictures of it and Biden will have to keep defending the decision not to just shoot it down. A menacing balloon from Asia floated in the skies over Montana. The year was 1944. The balloon, with a small incendiary bomb attached, drifted down to a forested area near Kalispell, Montana, crumpling into a heap. Two loggers found it there in December that year. A Japanese balloon-borne bomb that fell in western Canada in 1945. Credit: AP Wirephoto The FBI and Army Air Force arrived to study the strange contraption, about 10 metres wide, made of laminated paper. Writing on the balloon told them it was Japanese and had been completed a few weeks earlier at a Japanese factory. Around the same time, a bomb crater was discovered near Thermopolis, Wyoming. And then another balloon was found near Estacada, Oregon. Ahram Online highlights a selection of do-not-miss events this week (12-18 April) in Egypt Thank you for reading! Please log in, or sign up for a new account and purchase a subscription to continue reading. Ukraine's prime minister said a Ukraine-European Union summit will take place in Kyiv on Friday, as the war-torn country battles to repel the Russian invasion. "The Ukraine-EU summit will be held in Kyiv on February 3," Prime Minister Denys Shmygal told a government meeting on Tuesday, calling the event "extremely important" for Kyiv's bid to join the European bloc. "The fact that this summit will be held in Kyiv is a powerful signal to both partners and enemies." No details were provided on who would be attending on the European Union side. Russian President Vladimir Putin sent troops to Ukraine on February 24 last year, and his forces have repeatedly targeted civilian infrastructure including in the capital Kyiv. Shmygal said that the fact that the high-profile summit will take place in war-time Kyiv is meant to demonstrate to Russia that its efforts to sow discord among Kyiv's Western allies and prevent Ukraine from joining the EU have been futile. The Ukrainian prime minister said that another key event will take place on Thursday, when consultations between the government of Ukraine and the European Commission will take place "for the first time in our history." Ukraine gained EU candidacy status in June last year. EU countries have staunchly supported Ukraine since Moscow invaded in February, by hitting Russia with waves of economic penalties and sending weapons to Kyiv. Search Keywords: Short link: China's growing assertiveness and collaboration with Russia poses a threat not only to Asia but also to Europe, NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said Wednesday as he sought stronger cooperation and more ``friends'' for NATO in the Indo-Pacific region. Stoltenberg said China is increasingly investing in nuclear weapons and long-range missiles without providing transparency or engaging in meaningful dialogue on arms control for atomic weapons, while escalating coercion of its neighbors and threats against Taiwan, the self-ruled island it claims as its own territory. ``The fact that Russia and China are coming closer and the significant investments by China and new advanced military capabilities just underlines that China poses a threat, poses a challenge also to NATO allies,'' Stoltenberg told an audience at Keio University in Tokyo. ``Security is not regional but global.`` ``NATO needs to make sure we have friends,'' he said. ``It is important to work more closely with our partners in the Indo-Pacific.'' China is increasingly working with Russia and they lead an ``authoritarian pushback'' against the rules-based, open and democratic international order, he said. Stoltenberg said NATO does not regard China as an adversary or seek confrontation, and that the alliance will continue to engage with China in areas of common interest, such as climate change. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning defended China as ``a force for regional and global peace and stability'' and criticized NATO for labeling China a threat and for expanding its military ties to Asia. ``NATO has constantly sought to reach beyond its traditional defense zone and scope, strengthen military and security ties with Asia Pacific countries and played up China's threats,'' Mao said. ``I would like to stress that the Asia-Pacific is not a battlefield for the geopolitical contest and does not welcome the Cold War mentality and bloc confrontation.'' Stoltenberg and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida held talks Tuesday and agreed to step up their partnership in security in cyberspace, space, defense and other areas. Besides Japan, NATO is also strengthening ``practical cooperation'' with Australia, New Zealand and South Korea in maritime cybersecurity and other areas and stepping up participation of their leaders and ministers in NATO meetings, he said. Kishida on Tuesday announced Japan's plans to open a representative office at NATO. Japan, already a close ally of the United States, has in recent years expanded its military ties with other Indo-Pacific nations as well as with Britain, Europe and NATO amid growing security threats from China and North Korea. Tokyo was quick to join in U.S.-led economic sanctions against Russia's war in Ukraine and provided humanitarian aid and non-combative defense equipment for Ukrainians. Japan fears that Russian aggression in Europe could be reflected in Asia, where concerns are growing over increasing Chinese assertiveness and escalating tensions over its claim to Taiwan. Stoltenberg arrived in Japan late Monday from South Korea, where he called for Seoul to provide direct military support to Ukraine to help it fight off the prolonged Russian invasion. North Korea condemned Stoltenberg's visits to South Korea and Japan, saying that NATO was trying to put its ``military boots in the region'' to pressure America's Asian allies into providing weapons to Ukraine. North Korea also criticized increasing cooperation between NATO and U.S. allies in Asia as a process to create an ``Asian version of NATO,'' saying it would raise tensions in the region. Search Keywords: Short link: The artists of the dark ages were neither blind nor indifferent to the perfection and transcendent beauty of classical ancient Rome that lay half-buried strewn in their midst. Medieval artists didnt know they were medieval relative to those ruins, yet the humanists who subsequently began fostering a classical revival knew full well they were different. No previous Western art movement became so self-conscious. What started as a myth of ancient revival began unfolding in real time before their eyes. It became clear: civilization was entering a Renaissance. Expressing this insight, 14th-century poet Petrarch wrote: When the darkness breaks, the generations to come may contrive to find their way back to the clear splendor of the ancient past. With rediscovery of ancient architecture and literature came the revival of ancient values which, in many ways, seemed out of place in Christendom. Roman understandings of natural laws and divine order contrasted accepted conceptions of a supernatural holiness. Yet men of the day deemed it self-evident that both were correct; fusing these two worlds would mark one of the great challenges of the Renaissance. Ruins of the ancient Roman Forum, 8th century B.C., Central Rome. (Maria V K/Shutterstock) Architecture saw a convergence where these two worlds would, in fact, join harmoniously and forever reshape Western aestheticseverything from our civic buildings, to the temples where we worship. And Florence was where much of this began, where geniuses of the day made this manifest. Unlike northern Europe, where Gothic chiefs might have risen to nobility by overthrowing Roman rulers, the mercantile republic of Florence descended from Rome herself and supported individual freedom. In Florence, the civic and mundane trumped the aristocratic and clerical. The foregoing Gothic values of nobility and chivalry confronted a humanistic value system that venerated the prowess of the individual and intellect as supreme. Florence was also where a major breakthrough occurred in the visual arts. Brunelleschi extrapolated linear perspective by conceiving a two-dimensional picture as corresponding to reality observed through a window. Thus, a two-dimensional world must obey visual laws that could be studied and perfected. Seeing how lines traveling at right angles from a window converge at a point on the horizon on a two-dimensional surface, artists were able to reconstruct an illusionistic three-dimensional space. At the time, this was entirely novel and was widely embraced by architects and artists. The discovery raised art to the realm of science and opened the door to a concept of artistic progress, which led menindividualsto vie with one another to advance their wisdom and produce great works. I. Porta del Paradiso (The Gates of Paradise) In 1401, the baptistry in Florence sought a design for a second set of 17-foot-high, gilded bronze doors, after the first was completed by Andrea Pisano, and chose to outsource the work via a competition for the best plan. Ultimately, it was Lorenzo Ghiberti who won with his relief. Doing away with Gothic gracefulness, he pursued a robust naturalism and greater depth, illusionistic and actual, in a series of narratives. He displayed his mastery of perspective in these doors, completed in 1424, which were eventually mounted on the north side of the baptistry. So celebrated was Ghibertis work that he was immediately commissioned to produce a third set. He had already surpassed Pisano and would now strive to surpass himself. Depicting fewer narratives this time, he used Old Testament subjects to depict naturalistic detailsanatomy, drapery, and landscapesto fully demonstrate his skill as a draftsman. Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore and Baptistery of St. John Battistero di San Giovanni, Florence, Italy. (lara-sh/Shutterstock) (Left) North doors of Florence Baptistery, Florance. (Sailko/CC BY-SA 3.0) (Right) Porta del Paradiso located at the Florence Baptistery. (Sailko/CC BY-SA 3.0) Porta del Paradiso by Lorenzo Ghiberti, 1452, Florence. (Pietro Basilico/Shutterstock) All of the scenes were made to the same scale so that the foreground figures were all the same size. He capitalized on every opportunity to generate illusionistic depth using linear perspective modeling various structures, be they rectangular, circular, arched, and rustic. I strove to imitate nature as clearly as I could and with all the perspective I could produce to have excellent compositions with many figures, Ghiberti wrote. After laboring for 27 years, Ghiberti completed the doors, dubbed the Porta del Paradiso (The Gates of Paradise), in 1452 and they were given a place of honor facing the cathedral. They represent an early architectural integration of classical elements with the forgoing Gothic syntax. II. Palazzo Medici Riccardi Built for Florences first citizen beginning in 1444, the three-storied Palazzo Medici Riccardi set the architectural tone for the entire city. Exuding stoic order, the building achieves its visual impact through the subtle variation of its exterior texture with large blocks across the lower level, the middle level displaying smooth rustication, and a flat wall surface above. Simple rectangular and arched windows and portals repeat all along the sides while a massive, wide cornice overshadows the whole. Palazzo Medici Riccardi, designed by Michelozzo di Bartolomeo, Florence. (JJFarq/Shutterstock) The inner courtyard of the Palazzo Medici Riccardi, designed by Michelozzo di Bartolomeo, built between 1444 and 1484. (Federico Magonio/Shutterstock) Detail from the inner courtyard of the Palazzo Medici Riccardi in Florence, Italy. (BGStock72/Shutterstock) Palazzo Medicis sober exterior carries over into its interior though with little more elegance. Its inner courtyard is encircled by a simple, square colonnade supporting arches with circular reliefs. All is tightly integrated and controlled. A wealthy banker who took his civic duty seriously, Cosimo de Medici, owner of the mansion, chose a design that would convey ample, solid wealth as opposed to the prevailing Gothic extravagance displayed in other rich houses. To illustrate this shift in values, it was said that Medici turned down a design by Brunelleschi for being too ostentatious. Rather, he chose one by Michelozzo di Bartolomeo, who was said to regulate his life according to prudent economythis classical virtue might have had a hand in Medicis decision. III. Tempietto One of the chief challenges Renaissance architects faced was that of how to reconcile classical architecturewhich they theorized on and systematized into a language during the Renaissanceand the very un-classical, irregular Christian basilica of medieval times. Masters such as Alberti and Leonardo da Vinci conceived the circle as the most natural geometric form, one that was shown to repeat in the human body in da Vincis Vitruvian Man. A hemispherical dome, such as the one in the Pantheon in Rome, would complete a symbolic representation of the cosmos. In this quest to integrate Christian and classical, Donato Bramante around 1510 made a resounding breakthrough with his martyria, the Tempietto. Honoring St. Peter, it was erected in Rome at the location where the saint was believed to have been crucified. It incorporates a circle in an innovative, centrally planned concept that had far-reaching influence. The Tempietto of Donato Bramante is the first example of High Renaissance architecture that inspired St. Peters Basilica in the Vatican. (Em Campos/Shutterstock) This relatively small monument would later echo resoundingly in the gargantuan St. Peters Basilica, and even centuries later in the Capitol Building in the U.S. The Tempietto was considered a radical divergence from Bramantes contemporaries, yet was hailed for achieving classical purity. Bramante did away with all decorum to restore the true Doric orderone of three systems of classical architectureas the ancients intended. He devised a circular colonnade bearing the more ancient flat entablature instead of arches. It was considered the first correct usage of that order during the Renaissance. A hemispherical dome crowned the monument, completing what had been haunting Renaissance architects until then. The site was not completed, however, as the martyria was not intended to remain in isolation but was to be the nucleus within a circular external colonnade of 16 columns to match those in the center. Together, they would have comprised an ordered environment where voids, masses, and volumes coexist in perfect equipoise. Yet, Bramantes achievement hardly went unnoticed. In 1506, then Pope Julius II initiated renovations on the very dilapidated Church of St. Peter the apostle in Rome from its foundations up. Bramante submitted a design based on his centrally planned concept and it was accepted. He did not live to see its completion, however; only the foundation and four piers bearing its massive drum and hemispherical dome were ever realized from his design. Still, Bramantes plan was so influential, that Michelangelo, who succeeded him as architect for St. Peters, could not help but be heavily swayed by it. IV. St. Peters Basilica Neither the plans for St. Peters that Bramante had drafted nor the construction itself saw any further progress for 40 more years due to a lack of fundingdespite the Churchs selling of indulgences which sparked Martin Luthers subsequent protests. When construction restarted, it was none other than Michelangelo who was appointed to head up the project in 1546. Work would continue up until his death 18 years later and afterward, with much still unfinished. Michelangelo reworked Bramantes designand indeed his own, constantlymaking it bolder and more integrated, arranging a continuous flowing space surrounding the four great piers supporting the colossal drum and dome. St. Peters Basilica in Vatican City. (Liya_Blumesser/Shutterstock) St. Peters Basilica in Vatican City. (Viliam.M/Shutterstock) Michelangelos centrally planned design would later be transformed into a Latin cross by Carlo Maderno, who succeeded him, yet St. Peters owes more to Michelangelo than any other architect. Retained in the basilica are his exterior patterns repeating around the transepts, apses, and on both sides of the nave, articulating the enormous mass of masonry with supreme dignity and rhythm. That exterior consists of giant Corinthian pilasters backed by vertical strips, casting deep shadows. With soaring verticality reminiscent of Gothic tradition, their insistent upward thrust is interrupted by a horizontal cornice and attic, over which the hemispherical ribbed dome appears to float. Detail of St. Peters Basilica in Vatican City. (easy camera/Shutterstock) Interior of St. Peters Basilica in Vatican City. (Franco Origlia/Getty Images) (Left) Design by Donato Bramante for St. Peters Basilica. (Public Domain) (Right) Design by Michelangelo, extended by Carlo Maderno for St. Peters Basilica. (Public Domain) Michelangelos logical distinction between structure and decorum facilitated unbridled expression and freedom within orderly bounds in St. Peters. Moreover, with seamless merger of Bramantes centrally planned temple and the medieval basilica, the goal was realized; they had revived the splendor of the ancient past with the Christian forms of the present. Yet, a problem lingeredone that had long vexed Renaissance architects, preventing them from fully achieving the classical conversion: Their aims of applying the orderly classical syntax were frustrated by the medieval basilicas chaotic and irregular facade. The men of the Renaissance had more work to do. V. San Giorgio Maggiore Ultimately, it was not a Florentine architect who would resolve this, but one from another highly independent republicthe mercantile oligarchy of Venice. After the library of San Marco introduced the Renaissance to Venice in 1537, it found an admirer in Andrea Palladio, who would go on to promulgate his own treaties on architecture based on the classical orders. Like his predecessors, Palladio sought to match classical forms with the irregular Christian church facade. The latter consisted of a vertical nave joined by lower side aisles jutting horizontally to either side. Thus, it was typically split into two levels with the lower one spanning breadthwise and the upper corresponding centrally to the nave. Church of San Giorgio Maggiore in Venice, Italy. (kavalenkau/Shutterstock) Begun in 1565, the church of San Giorgio Maggiore in Venice ultimately saw the matter resolved thanks to a conception by Palladio. He confronted the disparate levels of the basilica by introducing not one but two distinct classical temple fronts interlocking together in a single facade. One front would span the basilicas lower, horizontal level, while the other would match its central, more vertical nave, topped by a pediment. The triangles jutting out from either side of the nave in his design represent conceptual ends of the lower pediment, whose base forms a stringcourse spanning the entire width, interrupted by four half-pillars. Pilasters set on low bases span the building widthwise, while the half-pillars supporting the narrower front are set on high pedestals, lending an un-classical verticality to the design. These orders are repeated in the interior, in the same way, thus uniting the whole. Palladios solution harmonized the conflicting Christian and classical buildingsthus closing another chapter in the quest to revive ancient wisdom. 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 $589 Million Gas Project Scrapped Despite Gas Shortages A gas import terminal project in New South Wales (NSW)projected to meet up to 80 percent of the states gas demandhas been scrapped amid forecasts of shortages in Australias east coast gas market in 2023. The project, run by Energy Projects and Infrastructure Korea (EPIK), stopped all development of the $589 million (US$416 million) project in September 2022, saying it was economically unfeasible, according to a report (pdf) by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC). The Korean company said profit margins were being squeezed by downward pressure from the volatility of the international liquefied natural gas (LNG) market and high LNG benchmark pricing. The ACCC also said the risk from volatile market conditions was not unique to EPIK. Rather, all the proposed LNG import terminals are exposed to this risk. It is possible, therefore, that other proposals could be abandoned or delayed until conditions improve, it said. A Critical State Significant Infrastructure Project In December 2018, EPIK announced an agreement with the Port of Newcastle, the largest port on Australias east coast, to create a proposal for an LNG import terminal. Following the announcement, EPIK commissioned other parties to develop a plan to construct a gas dock that included a 170,000 cubic metre class floating storage and regasification unit and associated onshore infrastructure. In August 2019, the NSW government granted the project the Critical State Significant Infrastructure status, a sign of its importance to the states energy security. At the time, the project was expected to commence operation in the 2022-2023 financial year and add about 110 petajoules of gas to NSWs domestic market, which relies on other Australian states for 95 percent of its gas supply. The terminal could be operational by 2022-23 and provide supply for gas-fired power stations, helping to manage energy security during the period in which the Liddell power station is scheduled to close, then-acting premier John Barilaro said in 2019. This LNG terminal would significantly address this risk and help secure a reliable and affordable future for NSWs gas supply. A ship carrying liquified natural gas (LNG) arrives at Mukran Port in Sassnitz, Germany, on Nov. 23, 2022. (Sean Gallup/Getty Images) However, after the NSW governments declaration was made, EPIK became stuck at the second step of the planning processfiling an environmental impact statementuntil it announced the projects cancellation. The cancellation is a blow to Australias east coast energy market during the current energy crisis, as it was projected that gas shortages could occur in the region in 2023 and the coming years. Nevertheless, the NSW government has downplayed the impact of EPIKs decision, saying there are still other gas projects in the state. The decision not to proceed with the planning process for the proposed Newcastle LNG terminal is a matter for the proponent, an NSW Department of Planning and Environment spokesman said, reported The Australian. There are a number of gas projects being progressed by the private sectorincluding the expansion of existing pipeline capacity, the Narrabri gas project and the Port Kembla import terminalthat would supply additional gas to NSW. Gas Shortages in the East Coast Market In the report, the ACCC forecasted that the east coast gas market could fall short of 30 petajoules in 2023 if Queensland LNG producers were to export all their uncontracted gas. While the new figure is an improvement from the ACCCs July 2022 forecast, which predicted a shortfall of 56 petajoules, there is still a risk to the regions gas supply due to uncontracted gas demand and uncertainty about the level of demand and production of gas across Australia. The report said there were limited options for averting a shortfall in supply in 2023, and LNG producers had to increase their output to prevent the worst-case scenario. Although LNG producers are expected to have sufficient uncontracted gas to satisfy domestic demand, they have not committed to providing adequate supply to address the risk. Regarding the long-term outlook, the ACCC said shortages were likely to occur from 2027 onward due to production being unable to meet forecast demand if no new supply was added to the system. Therefore, developing new gas sources and infrastructure is necessary to avoid long-term supply shortfalls in the region. However, considering the actions taken by state governments on Australias east coast so far, the report painted a grim picture of the energy market. Although the need for investment in new sources of supply and associated infrastructure is clear, only a limited number of relatively small domestic supply projects that could come online between 2023 and 2027 have been approved for development, the report stated. The Epoch Times has reached out to EPIK but has not received a reply at the time of publication. 6th Memphis Police Officer Fired in Tyre Nicholss Death Former Memphis Police Department Officer Preston Hemphill was fired and charged in relation to the arrest of Tyre Nichols. (Courtesy of Memphis Police Department) The Memphis Police Department fired a sixth police officer on Feb. 3 as it announced further findings from its internal investigation into the death of Tyre Nichols. Nichols, 29, passed away in the hospital on Jan. 10, three days after a violent encounter with five Memphis police officers during a traffic stop that ultimately ended with Nichols succumbing to injuries sustained in the incident. The encounter was captured in video recordings made public by the city of Memphis on Jan. 27. In a statement, the Memphis Police Department stated that it concluded that former officer Preston Hemphill, 26, violated multiple department policies, resulting in his termination. Hemphill had already been suspended with pay, pending a hearing. Hemphill was charged with violations of personal conduct, truthfulness, use of a conducted energy weapon (Taser), uniform and equipment regulations, and processing of recovered property, according to the Memphis Police Department. The department stated that the investigation into the five other officers charged over Nicholss death is ongoing, with updates expected to be released in the near future. Hemphill was hired by the department in March 2018. An attorney for Hemphill said his client would cooperate fully with police. While we disagree with this termination, Preston Hemphill will continue to cooperate with all authorities in the investigation into the death of Mr. Nichols, attorney Lee Gerald said. Multiple Firings A seventh police officer, whose identity hasnt been disclosed, was also taken off duty without pay, according to the Memphis Police Department. Along with the seven police officers, three members of the citys fire department have been dismissed for not providing adequate medical care to Nichols after he was handcuffed. Two Shelby County Sheriffs deputies were also removed from duty without pay pending a review, Sheriff Floyd Bonner said on Jan. 27, after the video of Nicholss arrest became public. The special police unit that was tasked with combating rising crime in Memphis was disbanded on Jan. 28. The Scorpion unit, launched in November 2021, was made up of three teams of about 30 officers. The unit partly targeted violent offenders in crime hotspots in the city. But it has faced heavy criticism in the aftermath of Nicholss death. Hemphill and the five officersTadarrius Bean, Demetrius Haley, Desmond Mills Jr., Emmitt Martin III, and Justin Smithwere part of the special unit. Hemphills attorney has previously said that Hemphill was wearing the body camera that recorded the first of the four videos released by authorities. The video shows Hemphill appearing to use a Taser stun gun on Nichols after he was pulled from his vehicle, forced onto the ground, and sprayed with pepper spray. Once Nichols broke free and ran away, he was chased by the five officers who were later dismissed, and he was subjected to a violent beating. The five officers face up to 60 years in prison if convicted of second-degree murder in Nicholss death. They were also each charged with aggravated assault, aggravated kidnapping, official misconduct, and official oppression. Tried to Flee The video footage of the traffic stop shows that police officers removed Nichols from the drivers seat of his car and instructed him to lie on the ground and then on his stomach. When Nichols attempted to escape by getting up, the officers used pepper spray. During the initial arrest attempt, Nichols can be heard saying, I didnt do anything I am just trying to go home, before he fled the scene by running down the road. An image from a video released on Jan. 27, 2023, by the City of Memphis shows Tyre Nichols during a brutal attack by five Memphis police officers in Memphis, Tenn., on Jan. 7, 2023. (City of Memphis via AP) The police officers chased Nichols both in their vehicles and on foot. When they caught up to him and attempted to arrest him, they could be heard repeatedly telling him give me your hands as they tried to put handcuffs on him. However, Nichols appeared to resist and continued to try to stand up or escape. The second encounter between the police officers and Nichols was recorded on video, showing the officers attempting to restrain him. In the footage, two officers are holding him down while a third officer kicks him, a fourth officer strikes him with what appears to be a rod, and another officer punches him. An image from a video released on Jan. 27, 2023, by the City of Memphis shows Tyre Nichols during a brutal attack by five Memphis police officers on Jan. 7, 2023, in Memphis, Tenn. (City of Memphis via AP) Nichols was handcuffed and propped up against the side of a police car after multiple punches, kicks, and hits from the officers. He was taken to the hospital that night and passed away three days later because of his injuries, according to the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation. The Shelby County District Attorneys office is investigating the involvement of all individuals involved in the traffic stop and subsequent events, including Hemphill, the Memphis Fire Department personnel, and those who documented the incident. The five police officers who chased Nichols and participated in the most severe beatings are black, as was Nichols himself. Hemphill is white. Nicholss death has led to widespread protests and calls for justice. The family of Nichols, along with their attorneys and community activists, continue to demand further action such as the firing or charging of additional officers. Mimi Nguyen Ly and Reuters contributed to this report. Paco Rabanne, the Spanish-born designer known for perfumes sold worldwide but who made his name with metallic space-age fashions that put a bold, new edge on catwalks, has died, the group that owns his fashion house announced. The House of Paco Rabanne wishes to honor our visionary designer and founder who passed away today at the age of 88. Among the most seminal fashion figures of the 20th century, his legacy will remain, the statement from beauty and fashion company Puig said. The newspaper Le Telegramme quoted the mayor of Vannes, David Robo, as saying that Rabanne died at his home in the Brittany region town of Portsall. Rabannes fashion house shows its collections in Paris and is scheduled to unveil the brands latest ready-to-wear designs during the upcoming Feb. 27-March 3 fashion week. Rabanne was known as a rebel designer in a career that blossomed with his collaboration with the family-owned Puig, a Spanish company that now also owns other design houses, including Nina Ricci, Jean Paul Gaultier, Carolina Herrera and Dries Van Noten. The company also owns the fragrance brands Byredo and Penhaligons. Paco Rabanne made transgression magnetic. Who else could induce fashionable Parisian women (to) clamor for dresses made of plastic and metal? Who but Paco Rabanne could imagine a fragrance called Calandre the word means automobile grill, you know and turn it into an icon of modern femininity? the groups statement said. Calandre perfume was launched in 1969, the first product by Puig in Spain, France and the United States, according to the company. Born Francisco Rabaneda y Cuervo in 1934, the future designer fled the Spanish Basque country at age 5 during the Spanish Civil War and took the name of Paco Rabanne. He studied architecture at Paris Beaux Arts Academie before moving to couture, following in the steps of his mother, a couturier in Spain. He said she was jailed at one point for being dressed in a scandalous fashion. Rabanne sold accessories to well-known designers before launching his own collection. He titled the first collection presented under his own name 12 unwearable dresses in contemporary materials. His innovative outfits were made of various kinds of metal, including his famous use of mail, the chain-like material associated with Medieval knights. Coco Chanel reportedly called Rabanne the metallurgist of fashion. French President Emmanuel Macron and his wife, Brigitte, saluted an uncommon artist who blew the wind of renewal into the world of haute couture, his office said. Paco Rabanne was among the first designers to put Black mannequins on the runway, and in 1983 opened Centre 57, devoted to the Black African and Caribbean diaspora. Artists, musicians, film-makers and hip-hop dancers frequented the center for several years, the statement from Macrons office noted. My colleagues tell me I am not a couturier but an artisan, and its true that Im an artisan. ... I work with my hands, he said in an interview in the 1970s. In the interview given when he was 43 years old and now held in Frances National Audiovisual Institute, Rabanne explained his radical fashion philosophy, revealing a dark side of his complex character. I think fashion is prophetic. Fashion announces the future, he said at the time, adding that the future for me is catastrophic. Sure enough, the designer predicted a major catastrophe on Aug. 11, 1999, claiming that the Russian MIR space station would fall on France. Instead, a crowd opened champagne at his Left Bank headquarters for a survivors party. Paco Rabanne retired in 2000, and the house didnt field a runway show for five years, from 2006 until the spring-summer 2012 show. But the creator has also said that women are harbingers of what lies on the horizon. The president of the Association of Fashion Designers of Spain, Modesto Lomba, said Rabanne left an absolute mark on the passage of time. Lets not forget that he was Spanish and that he triumphed inside and outside Spain. Search Keywords: Short link: 8 Dead Migrants Recovered Off Italian Island of Lampedusa The bodies of eight migrants have been recovered by Italys coast guard during an operation overnight that also rescued 42 survivors in the central Mediterranean off the island of Lampedusa, authorities said Friday. Another two people, a newborn and a man, fell into the sea during the crossing and were presumed dead, the coast guard said in a statement, citing survivor accounts. Video of the rescue shows the survivors packed in a small open fishing boat, which was adrift with a nonfunctioning motor. Rescuers warned them to sit down and not move before throwing a line to pull them to safety. Survivors said they had departed the Tunisian port of Sfax before dawn on Saturday, ANSA said. They were among some 200 migrants, mostly from sub-Saharan African nations, who arrived at Lampedusa on three boats overnight. Italy agreed over the weekend to supply Libya with five new coast guard boats to help stem the movement of migrants to Europe. The deal was announced during a visit by Meloni that secured an $8 billion gas deal. Access to Free Information Turns Chinese YouTuber Into Anti-CCP Activist Liu Dasheng participated in a rally in front of the Chinese Consulate in Los Angeles to support students who have been arrested by the CCP. (Ma Shang'en/The Epoch Times) A young Chinese internet celebrity suddenly became a target of the Chinese Communist Partys (CCP) censorship and suppression for a short video he made about Taiwan and China. Liu Dasheng, born in the 1990s, was a curious young man who liked to explore the outside world. He liked to chat with foreign tourists and learned from them what other countries were like. One day, Liu learned to circumvent the CCPs internet censorship by using a VPNa virtual private network, which hides the users actual IP addressand surfed on the internet outside China. What he saw changed his life. Truth of the Tiananmen Square Massacre In one of his internet surfings in 2016, Liu saw a documentary about the CCPs suppression of students protests in Tiananmen Square in 1989. I was completely stupefied by what I saw, Liu said when speaking with the Chinese language edition of The Epoch Times in an interview on Jan. 23, 2023. The CCP covered up this! It did such a bad and barbarous thing as to use its military, machine guns, and tanks to suppress peaceful students! I was stunned! Liu said that he couldnt find a proper word to describe his feelings. He could not accept what he saw, Liu added. He asked around, hoping to confirm that the documentary was not true. He couldnt find an answer in China; the people whom he asked told him that they didnt know about the massacre. Phrases and words such as Tiananmen Square, massacre, and protests are strictly censored by the CCP. After Liu came to the United States in 2018, he was able to talk with some middle-aged people, who told him that the killing was true. Liu found it hard to accept the truth; he wasnt able to convince himself that the party hed trusted had cheated Chinese people. Later, Liu met a survivor of the Tiananmen Square massacre, who was a university student in Beijing in 1989. He told Liu that he was on campus when he heard the gunshots. He didnt believe that the communist regime would have opened fire at its own students, so he rushed out of the campus to have a look. He immediately heard the sound of bullets going in his direction and saw the craters of bullets on the wall beside him. Luckily, the student wasnt shot. Crowds of Beijing residents watch the military block access to Tiananmen Square in Beijing on June 7, 1989. (Sadayuki Mikami.AP Photo) At least 10,000 people were killed during the Tiananmen Square massacre in June 1989, according to a secret British diplomatic cable and U.S. documents declassified in 2014. However, Yuan Mu, the then-spokesperson of the Chinese regime, claimed that not a single person died at Tiananmen Square, following the massacre. My first response was shocking; a second thought was: I have been deceived by the CCP! Liu said that it was a complicated feeling. Its just like that youve been fooled by someone you trust since you are a child. Then one day you suddenly come to know everything, and youll think: I have been so foolish, and the CCP has been so bad! When Liu was more aware of the evil nature of the CCP, he started to think independently about many things, including the political systems of China and Taiwan. Livestream Gets Liu Into Trouble In October 2018, Liu talked about the differences in the political systems in China and Taiwan in a live-stream video program on Youtube. Why doesnt Taiwan want to unify with China? It would be game over for Taiwan, Liu said in his self-media program. Taiwanese would no longer have voting rights, Taiwanese would have to circumvent the CCPs Great Firewall to watch YouTube programs or use Google, and Taiwanese wouldnt dare to criticize their president Tsai Ing-wen anymore, because they would be arrested for doing this, Liu said in the program. Todays Hong Kong is tomorrows Taiwan, Liu said. His program went viral on the internet. His parents in China were immediately threatened by Chinese police, and his mother was out of contact for several days. Liu suspected that she was detained by the police from his hometown in Chinas eastern Jiangsu Province. Liu said that he knew the CCP wanted to silence him by threatening his family. He didnt want to keep quiet, though he was worried about the safety of his parents. There must be a bottom line that you stick to as a human being, Liu said. Exposing the Evil Nature of the CCP In the interview with The Epoch Times, Liu talked about some of the bad things the CCP has done to the Chinese people. He said that the Chinese communist regime treats Chinese people like livestock. For the past three years, the CCP locked down people randomly. Then it lifted the isolation measures all of a sudden without due notice or preparation, Liu said. Neither the lockdowns nor the relaxation of zero-COVID measures is meant for the well-being of the people, said Liu. He also cited the one-child policy implemented by the CCP from 1979 to 2013. According to data from the countrys Ministry of Health cited by Chinese state media, 336 million abortions were performed from 1971 to 2013, and Chinese doctors also inserted 403 million intrauterine devices (IUDs) in Chinese women for birth control. All the CCPs policies or changes of policies are for better control of the Chinese people, Liu noted. We Must Overthrow the Tyranny! Liu advised people, especially Chinese people, not to trust the CCP. The CCP said that it would build a democratic China in the 1940s when it was fighting with Chiang Kai-shek [former president of the Republic of China], Liu said in a YouTube program on Feb. 1, 2023. Look at Hong Kong now, Liu said, adding that he doesnt understand why some people still believe in the CCPs lies. Liu has participated in multiple events that supported the democratic movement and protested against the CCP. On Jan. 21, 2023, which was lunar New Years Eve, Liu and overseas Chinese dissidents rallied in front of the Chinese consulate in Los Angeles. They lit a CCP flag to protest against the communist rule of China and demanded the release of White Paper protesters detained by the communist regime. We must overthrow the tyranny! Liu told The Epoch Times. When China is free [from the CCPs rule], there is no need for me to burn a CCP flag then. I think every overseas Chinese has the commitment to turn China into a free country because that is where we were born and where we grew up, Liu said, calling on his fellow Chinese compatriots to spread the truth and the spirit of freedom. Dont trust the CCP; stay away from the CCP, Liu said that this is his message to people in China. Ma Shangen contributed to this report. Another Chinese Spy Balloon Traveling Over Latin America, Pentagon Says A second Chinese spy balloon is currently traversing Latin America, Pentagon confirmed late on Feb. 3 amid rising concern about a Chinese surveillance balloon hovering eastward across the continental United States. We are seeing reports of a balloon transiting Latin America. We now assess it is another Chinese surveillance balloon, Pentagon press secretary Brig. Gen. Patrick Ryder said in a statement to media outlets. The comment came hours after Ryder was pressed at a briefing with reporters about a Canadian defense ministry statement on Friday that they were monitoring a potential second incident, and whether the United States is doing the same. Ryder in response referred the question back to the Canadian authorities. The first Chinese balloon, which military officials described to be a high altitude surveillance balloon, appeared earlier this week above the state of Montana, home to one of the countrys three nuclear missile silo fields. A high altitude Chinese balloon floats over Billings, Mont., on Feb. 1, 2023. (Larry Mayer/The Billings Gazette via AP) Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Friday postponed a trip to Beijing that would have marked the highest profile U.S. visit to China over the balloon, calling the balloon irresponsible and a clear violation of U.S. sovereignty and international law. [Chinas] decision to take this action on the eve of my planned visit is detrimental to the substantive discussions that we were prepared to have, he told reporters. The Department of Defense wouldnt confirm the balloons exact location, its size, and other details on Friday other than saying that the balloon is maneuverable, has changed course at some point, and that it is currently flying at 60,000 ft eastward across the country. President Joe Biden was first briefed on the matter on Tuesday, White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said on Feb. 3, and was given the strong recommendation by military leaders not to shoot it down due to the risk that falling debris may harm civilians. A senior defense official said the U.S. has taken unspecified mitigation measures against the balloon, adding that it was assessed that the device had limited additive value from an intelligence collection perspective over and above what [China] can do through other means. The Chinese regime has claimed that the balloon over the United States is a civilian meteorological balloon from China that was blown off course. In response, Ryder said, The fact is we know its a surveillance balloon. Costa Rica Reports Ryder didnt specify which country the balloon is currently hovering over, but local reports have cited sightings of a white balloon of mysterious origin over Costa Rica, which the countrys civil aviation authorities said doesnt have a fly authorization. My big concern with the Chinese balloon flight is if this is a test to see how fast we react and what we do, Art Thompson, CEO of California-based company Sage Cheshire Aerospace which provides stratospheric balloon launching and research services, told The Epoch Times. The two balloons appear to have been launched from different locations, he said. The photos Thomson examined of the two balloons, over the United States and Costa Rica, show that they are very similar in style. When I look at the trajectory, the question is, where did they launch it from? And it could have been launched from mainland China, and then just drifted over and would have done a little oscillation in its flight, he said. Thompson has advocated for the United States to shoot down the balloon currently moving eastward over the nation with laser weapons. He believes that U.S. authorities still have several days to take action before the balloon reaches international waters, but the one over Costa Rica would have a much shorter timeline. Its going to be out of touch fairly quickly because in Costa Rica, theyre going to be across into the gulf pretty fast, he said. The Chinese are definitely testing us and preparing for something. Australian State Government Refers Bushfire Grants Report to Watchdog A CFA member works on controlled back burns along Putty Road in Sydney, Australia, on Nov. 14, 2019. (Brett Hemmings/Getty Images) The New South Wales (NSW) government has referred a damning report on its own handling of Black Summer bushfire recovery grants to the states corruption watchdog, after threats of a referral from the opposition. A report by the NSW auditor-general revealed former deputy premier John Barilaros office intervened in the program and inexplicably created a $1 million (US$692,000) minimum for fast-tracked bushfire recovery projects. That threshold cut all applications from Labor electorates from the $100 million (US$69.2 million) first round, including the badly-affected Blue Mountains and Tenterfield regions. The audit, tabled in NSW parliament on Thursday, showed 21 fast-tracked projects worth more than $95 million (US$65.8 million) were in coalition seats and one worth $12.5 million (US$8.6 million) was in an independent electorate. Labor leader Chris Minns threatened to refer the issue to the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) if the ex-Nationals leader failed to answer questions about the program. However, the Department of Premier and Cabinet had already handed the report to the corruption watchdog on Friday, a spokesman for Premier Dominic Perrottet told AAP. A number of measures strengthening integrity in grants programs were already implemented by the premier, which addressed issues in the report and were consistent with the auditor-generals recommendations, a spokesman for the premier said. The premiers record on supporting communities hit by natural disasters is well known and the NSW government will continue to support any and all communities in need with record funding, the spokesman added. The Labor Party should not politicise ICAC and listen to the recent advice from ICAC chief commissioner John Hatzistergos when he said, It is inappropriate to weaponise a referral to the commission for attention or political advantage. Earlier, NSW Deputy Premier Paul Toole also defended the governments handling of grants, citing the new guidelines adopted by the government. The audit showed both Blue Mountains and Tenterfield received funding for projects totalling more than $16 million (US$11 million) in the final round of the program, eight months after the first grants were awarded. As part of those programs, there was significant funding that was rolled out the door to those communities that were impacted by bushfires, Toole told reporters in Orange on Friday. Toole said the government had reviewed grant guidelines and implemented changes. Minns said he wanted a formal investigation into decisions by Barilaros office. There needs to be an explanation if there isnt, we will refer it to the ICAC, Minns told reporters earlier on Friday. Minns said it couldnt be that a damning auditor-generals report could disappear from view as if it had not been written in the first place. Barilaro has not commented publicly on the report. The $541.8 million Bushfire Local Economic Recovery program was jointly funded by the state and federal governments and administered by NSW. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said disaster relief should always be distributed based on need. We all have a responsibility to deliver where its needed, not to deliver politically, Albanese told reporters after the national cabinet meeting in Canberra. Former coalition minister and Bega MP Andrew Constance said he was incredulous that party politics appears to have stopped urgent bushfire grant funding being distributed to some communities. In Bega Valley Shire, a Liberal-held area where 500 homes were lost, the only fast-tracked project was a $3 million proposal with neighbouring Snowy Valley. Im incredulous and I know fire communities will be incredulous, Constance told 2GB. Constance, who retired in 2021, said Barilaro had led the states recovery and taken necessary steps but now needed to explain himself. The report acknowledged most of the worst-affected regions were held by coalition MPs but ravaged areas were among those excluded. Biden Announces $500 Million Funding to Replace Lead Pipes, Upgrade Philadelphias Water System President Joe Biden arrives to speak at the Baltimore and Potomac Tunnel North Portal in Baltimore, Maryland, on Jan. 30, 2023. (Drew Angerer/Getty Images) Every American deserves to turn on their water tap or faucet and be able to drink clean water, President Joe Biden told an audience at the Belmont Water Treatment Plant in Philadelphia on Feb. 3. Through the infrastructure law, were making historic investments to make sure that they can, he said. Biden was joined by Vice President Kamala Harris at the water treatment facility to announce $500 million in federal support to upgrade aging lead pipes and improve Philadelphias water system. The money is part of the $1 trillion bipartisan infrastructure law that Biden signed into law in November 2022. In Philadelphia, $160 million will be used to replace 19 miles of lead pipes and enhance water treatment plants. President Joe Biden talks to reporters after returning to the White House on Jan. 30, 2023. Biden had traveled to Baltimore to talk about how the Bipartisan Infrastructure Laws funds are slated to help replace the 150-year-old Baltimore to Potomac Tunnel. (Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images) To date, $240 million has been awarded to Pennsylvania to provide clean and safe water across the state and improve water and wastewater infrastructure through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, the White House said in a statement. The city will receive another $340 million through an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) loan, Biden announced. The first $19 million of those funds will be allocated to replace 160 lead service lines and 13 miles of water mains. This represents the biggest investment in drinking water infrastructure in a generation, and we would not be able to do this work without this level of federal investment, Philadelphia Water Department Commissioner Randy E. Hayman said. Overall, $15 billion from the infrastructure bill will be used to remove lead pipes from service across the United States. Biden and Harris are traveling the country touting projects funded by the legislation. I signed the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, a once-in-a-generation investment, putting Americans to work to rebuild our nations roads, highways, bridges, railroads, ports, airports, high-speed internet, our water systems, and so much more, Biden said on Feb. 3. Ive traveled the country in recent weeks and seen this law in action. A massive new bridge over the Ohio River between Kentucky and Ohio, a huge tunnel along the Amtrak line in Baltimore and New Yorkbillions of dollars. Pennsylvania alone is going to get $8.1 billion, Biden added. The president then turned his attention to water. Were the richest, most prosperous nation in the world. Water ought to be something thats just guaranteed. But, unfortunately, thats not the case, he said. Right now, there are an estimated 160,000 service lines carrying water into homes and schools in Pennsylvania, including an estimated 20,000 lines for homes here in the city of Philadelphia, Biden continued. Ten million families across the country and hundreds of thousands of schoolsand where schoolchildren and day care centers existthat their water is pumped through lead pipes, lead valves, and lead fixtures. These water issues are especially prominent in the Midwest and Northeast, Biden explained, noting that the average age of water and sewer pipes in the United States is nearly 50 years old, and theyre often even older in major cities like Philadelphia. Biden then explained why he believes that lead exposure in water is a problem. Exposure to lead impacts childrens brain development. Its hazardous to their health. No amount of lead in water is safe. None, Biden said. It can damage the brain and kidneys and interfere with the production of red blood cells that the body needs to carry oxygen. The CDC [Centers for Disease Control and Prevention] estimates that over half of American children could be exposed to lead, with the exposure often coming from their own homes. The problem disproportionately affects low-income families. People of color are much more likely to live in homes where lead exposure is an issue. Biden said that when he took office, he and the vice president made a commitment to replace every single service line in every part of the country over the next decade. The American Rescue Plan, which Biden signed in 2021, provides $350 billion to state and local governments. We said they could use it for things like replacing lead lines and lead fixtures in their communities, Biden said. Im proud the City of Pittsburgh used $17.5 million as part of their plan to replace lead service lines in the city by 2026. On the one-year anniversary of Bidens Lead Pipe and Paint Action Plan, the EPA announced the launch of the Lead Service Line Replacement Accelerators initiative. Through this program, the EPA will provide hands-on support to guide communities through the process of lead service line removals, from start to finish, according to a statement. We got to remember who in Gods name we are. Were the United States of America. There is nothingnothing beyond our capacity. Nothing, Biden said in his closing remarks on Feb. 3. The least we can do, although its going to be incredibly expensive and take a little bit of time, is make sure that those 400,000 schools and day care centers and the like, when they turn on the water at that school, their tap, and the fountain, that that water is clean and pure. We owe it to our kids and grandkids. Biden on Chinese Spy Balloon: Were Going to Take Care of It President Joe Biden, with son Hunter Biden, arrives at Hancock Field Air National Guard Base in Syracuse, New York, on Feb. 4, 2023. (Andrew Caballero-Reynolds/AFP via Getty Images) President Joe Biden on Feb. 4 said the United States is going to take care of the spy balloon that has been allowed to fly over the country. Were going to take care of it, Biden told reporters after Air Force One landed at Hancock Field Air National Guard Base in Syracuse, New York. Biden, who was with his son Hunter Biden, did not elaborate. Biden has chosen thus far not to shoot down the Chinese balloon based on recommendations from U.S. military officials. Biden received a strong recommendation from Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin and Joint Chief of Staffs Chairman Mark Miller not to take kinetic action because of the risk to safety and security of the people on the ground, White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre told a press conference on Friday. The president took that recommendation from the military seriouslyof his advisors, clearly, she added. The president will always put the safety of the security of the American people first. Asked how close the president was to ordering the balloon be shot down, Pentagon spokesman Brig. Gen. Pat Ryder told reporters in a separate briefing: Right now, we assess that there is no threata physical threat or military threatto people on the ground. So were continuing to monitor and well just leave it at that. A senior defense official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said that officials assessed the balloon is large enough to cause damage from the debris field if we downed it over an area and that officials didnt feel comfortable recommending shooting it down, as of yet. U.S. officials have declined to say whether theyll shoot down the balloon if it leaves the United States. It is expected to reach water on Saturday, based on weather patterns. The balloon has violated U.S. sovereignty, the White House and Pentagon have said. U.S. officials say they know the balloon is a surveillance craft, though China has claimed it is not. Members of Congress and others have urged Biden to take action, questioning why the balloon has been allowed to remain in the air. China is able to keep a balloon traveling across our country because of this administrations weak stance that garners no respect from the Chinese Communist Party, Rep. Chuck Edwards (R-N.C.) said in a statement. It would be dereliction of duty for the Biden administration to allow this to leave U.S.-controlled airspace, Rep. Ralph Norman (R-S.C.) said. The balloon was over the Carolinas on Saturday. The balloon was high in the sky, tracking at one point 20,000 meters (65,616 feet) above the ground. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration forecasts the balloon will reach the Atlantic Ocean over the weekend. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, a Biden appointee, told reporters in Washington on Friday that he was postponing his planned trip to China and had conveyed to a top Chinese communist official that the balloon traveling into U.S. airspace was an unacceptable action. I made clear that the presence of this surveillance balloon in U.S. airspace is a clear violation of U.S. sovereignty and international law, that its an irresponsible act, and that the PRCs decision to take this action on the eve of my planned visit is detrimental to the substantive discussions that we were prepared to have, he said. PRC stands for the Peoples Republic of China. Biden was in Syracuse to visit family following the passing of his brother-in-law, Michael Hunter. Biden planned to travel to Maryland and spend the evening at Camp David after the visit. Bipartisan Group of Montana Lawmakers Call Out Biden Admin for Handling of Chinese Balloon Montana U.S. House candidate and former Secretary of Interior Ryan Zinke, left, speaks with patrons at Metals Sports Bar and Grill, May 13, 2022, in Butte, Mont. (AP Photo/Matthew Brown, File) A bipartisan group of Montana lawmakers called out the Biden administration for its response to the Chinese surveillance balloon floating over the United States. The Chinese balloon drifting through United States airspace was first spotted in Montana, and video footage of the object prompted speculation about why the aircraft might be in American airspace. According to authorities, the Pentagon decided against shooting down the balloon due to concerns about harming people on the ground. Additionally, there were concerns that tensions, already high between the United States and China, could become even more strained. Rep. Ryan Zinke (R-Mont.) spoke to the issue, telling Fox News Digital, What the Pentagon has said was we didnt want to shoot it down because of the chances of civilian casualties. This is a balloon that didnt get here overnight. It was over the Aleutian chain, which is one of the most sparsely populated places on the planet. Both of Montanas senators spoke to the issue, with Sen. Steve Daines (R-Mont.) also voicing strong disapproval, saying the United States treatment of the Chinese balloon was an outrage and an embarrassment on the world stage. Sen. Jon Tester (D-Mont.), who chairs the Senate panel that controls the Pentagon budget, said he would receive a classified briefing on the incident when he returns to Washington. This provocation is completely unacceptable, and I am in close contact with Department of Defense and Intelligence officials, Tester said in a statement Friday morning, according to Politico. We are still waiting for real answers on how this happened and what steps the Administration took to protect our country, and I will hold everyone accountable until I get them. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs for the Peoples Republic of China responded to a question about the unmanned airship that was spotted over the United States. The airship is from China. It is a civilian airship used for research, mainly meteorological, purposes, the ministry said on its website. Affected by the Westerlies and with limited self-steering capability, the airship deviated far from its planned course. The Chinese side regrets the unintended entry of the airship into US airspace due to force majeure. The Chinese side will continue communicating with the US side and properly handle this unexpected situation caused by force majeure. The Montana lawmakers aggressively disagreed with the Pentagons decision not to strike back at the aircraft. Zinke said he believes there is no doubt that American forces could have shot down the balloon without endangering civilians. Additionally, Zinke asserted that some Montanans would not object to the balloon being shot down over the state. Zinke commented, In Montana, Petroleum County, for example the least populated county in the lower 48, I guarantee you, the fine citizens of Petroleum County would enjoy having it shot down over their county, and probably there would be a line to shoot it down. The Associated Press contributed to this report. Body of Missing 22-Year-Old Hiker Found in Santa Monica Mountains The body of Zachary Zernik, a 22-year-old hiker who went missing last week, was found in Boney Mountain State Wilderness Park on Feb. 2, 2023. (Courtesy of Ventura County Sheriff's Office) Authorities in Ventura County, southern California, have recovered the body of a 22-year-old man who went missing last week while hiking in Boney Peak. The body of Zachary Zernik was found on Thursday around 9:00 a.m. local time in the Boney Mountain State Wilderness Park, the Ventura County Sheriffs Office said in a statement on Facebook. His death appears accidental, according to the sheriffs office, which noted that theres currently no evidence of crime or foul play. Zerniks remains were discovered in the west end of the mountainous park called Tri-Peaks, Ventura County Sheriff Cmdr. Jeremy Paris said, the Ventura County Star reported. The area is well-known by hikers for its caves, rock formations, and porous surface that makes for great climbing. Officials said Zerniks cause of death will be determined by the medical examiner following an autopsy. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family and loved ones, police said. Zernik was last seen by family members around 8 a.m. on Jan. 28, the sheriffs office said in a missing person announcement, adding that the young man failed to show up for work on Monday and was declared missing on Wednesday. Search efforts began after his vehicle was located at the Wendy/Potrero trailhead on Wednesday, the announcement reads. His remains were discovered the next day. Authorities were able to narrow their search area thanks to a photo the missing hiker had sent to his friends on Jan. 28, Paris told the Ventura County Star. The picture showed Zernik atop a rock in rugged terrain, and the metadata on the image included the GPS location where it was taken. Pariss son attended the same class as Zernik during high school, he told the publication, adding that his son described the 22-year-old as a great guy who was always positive. The family is extremely grieved, he said. Boney Mountain State Wilderness is located within the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and includes a number of popular hiking trails. The highest and most prominent mountain in the area is Tri-Peaks, where Zerniks body was discovered. Paris advised hikers to always inform relatives and plan trips safely beforehand. Hikers are recommended to always carry essential items, such as a proper amount of food and water, the right shoes, and warm clothes, as temperatures can drop rapidly. From NTD News Brazils Police Carry out Fresh Raids as Part of Jan. 8 Riots Probe Supporters of Brazil's former President Jair Bolsonaro demonstrate against President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva outside Brazils National Congress in Brasilia, Brazil, on Jan. 8, 2023. (Adriano Machado/Reuters) BRASILIABrazils federal police on Friday carried out fresh raids as part of a probe into the Jan. 8 insurrection, when supporters of former President Jair Bolsonaro breached government buildings in Brasilia. Police said in a statement they were serving three preventive arrest warrants and 14 search and seizure warrants ordered by the Supreme Court in five states and the federal district, where Brasilia is located. The new efforts represent the fourth phase of an operation launched last month aimed at identifying people who participated in, funded, or fostered the riots, in which protestors breached the Congress, presidential palace, and Supreme Court. Police did not disclose the names of those targeted by the raids but highlighted they were being investigated for the crimes of violent abolition of the rule of law, coup detat, qualified damage, criminal association, incitement, destruction, and deterioration of specially protected property. The Brasilia demonstrators were protesting Bolsonaros defeat by President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva in an October election and calling for a military coup to oust Lula and restore the conservative leader. SACRAMENTO, Calif.Financial advisor Simone Parks saw Shen Yun for the first time at the SAFE Credit Union Performing Arts Center on Feb. 3. Exiting the theater, Ms. Parks couldnt be more satisfied with her experience. I loved it. It was magnificent. I loved the costumes, the lighting, the choreography was beautiful. It was very inspirationala lot of good messages, she said. The New York-based Shen Yun was established in 2006 by leading Chinese artists who had fled the persecution of the communist party. Now in the free world, these artists are seeking to revive traditional Chinese culture and bring to the stage, through dance and music, the glory of pre-communist China. Ms. Park thought this mission was beautiful. We know in China theres no freedom, so a show like this would be banned. In America we have the freedom to express our opinionwhatever it is, she said. This was a good message for our time. A beautiful message. Furthermore, she sympathized deeply with Shen Yuns modern-day story dance depicting the communist regimes persecution of Falun Gonga peaceful meditation practice whose followers uphold the principles of truthfulness, compassion, and tolerance. I heard that [followers of] certain religions in China are being arrested and used for organ donation. Im familiar with those studies and reports. Its very secret, Ms. Parks said. People dont talk about it but it is very horrific and very devastating to see. It is unfortunately true. Nevertheless, Ms. Parks thought Shen Yun is doing a good job of letting people know and bringing awareness to the situation. As of 2023, Shen Yun has expanded from one to eight equally-sized companies that tour the world simultaneously each year. This season, the artists are expected to visit over 180 cities worldwide. For Ms. Parks, her greatest takeaway from the performance was the idea of looking inwards. She loved this spiritual aspect of Shen Yun. Its very necessary to tune within and not just be focused on the external and all the narcissism that exists in society. The way to elevate is to go within. I love that message. It spoke to my heart, she said. The only way to really save the world is if we come up higher and tune into ourselves more. Thats the shield against calamity and the disasters of the world. Thats what I saw in the [performance]the divine. Finally, Ms. Parks would like to tell the Shen Yun artists to keep on doing their work because its much needed. [We need Shen Yun] to bring people out of their mundane lives and to bring them into the majesty of grace, she said. This is something that computer technology cannot give usthe expression of human emotions and the discipline of physical dexterity. The AI cannot recreate such beauty, this is real human emotions. Reporting by Gary Wang and Jennifer Tseng. The Epoch Times is a proud sponsor of Shen Yun Performing Arts. We have covered audience reactions since Shen Yuns inception in 2006. European Union member states, the Group of Seven industrialized countries, and Australia said Friday that they have reached an agreement on price caps for Russian petroleum products. The move is the latest part of an international push to limit Russian President Vladimir Putin's war chest for his assault on Ukraine by targeting his key exports. The caps involve two price levels, $100 per barrel for more expensive fuel like diesel and $45 on lower-quality products such as fuel oil, according to officials. Sweden, which holds the rotating EU presidency, called it an "important agreement as part of the continued response by EU and partners to the Russian war of aggression against Ukraine." The EU in December imposed an embargo on Russian crude oil coming in by sea and -- together with its G7 partners -- set a $60-dollar-per-barrel cap for exports around the world. The second embargo, on Russian fuel, is set to come into force on Sunday or soon after. It targets Russian refined oil products such as petrol, diesel and heating fuel, arriving on ships. At the same time, the EU and the G7 group of wealthy democracies have also agreed to impose a price cap on Russian shipments of those products to global markets. The G7 and Australia statement added that the price cap coalition will undertake a review of the crude oil cap in March. The price caps on those transported products work by establishing a ceiling for the cost of fuel that can be transported on ships. The price caps agreed upon were in line with a proposal from the European Commission, the EU's executive arm. It had to balance tough demands from sanction hawks, such as Poland and Baltic nations, against the need to ensure the West does not cut off Russian supplies to world markets entirely, which would send global prices soaring. EU diplomats called the agreed price levels "well-balanced" and hitting the goal to "reduce Russia's income while guaranteeing access for third countries." In a separate statement, US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen applauded the latest decision and said it built on earlier efforts. "The caps we have just set will now serve a critical role in our global coalition's work... we are forcing Putin to choose between funding his brutal war or propping up his struggling economy," she added. Kremlin warns of market 'imbalance' The Kremlin lashed out at the EU ahead of the embargo coming into force, insisting it will "lead to a further imbalance of the international energy markets". "We are taking measures to hedge our interests against the risks associated," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters. Moscow's war in Ukraine has provided a harsh wake-up call for the EU, which for years had been reliant on cheap fossil fuels from Russia to power its industries. Brussels says the embargo on crude oil has seen the bloc cut out some 90 percent of Russian imports, after exceptions were granted for supplies flowing by pipeline to landlocked countries like Hungary. European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen on Thursday estimated during a visit to Kyiv that the existing price cap on Russian oil was already costing Moscow around 160 million euros ($175 million) every day. On Friday, she said the bloc was readying a new round of sanctions against Russia -- its 10th package since the war started a year ago. "We must continue to deprive Russia of the means to wage war against Ukraine," she said, also highlighting the EU's import ban on Russian petroleum products from Sunday. "With the G7 we are putting price caps on these products, cutting Russia's revenue while ensuring stable global energy markets," she said. Search Keywords: Short link: The White House revealed that President Joe Biden learned about the Chinese spy balloon three days ago. Whats the latest, and will the United States ultimately shoot it down? To weigh in on the Chinese spy balloon, as well as what the Chinese Communist Party is up to on the ground in the United States, we hear from North Dakota Sen. Kevin Cramer. As the House GOP ramps up its focus on Bidens border policies, one congresswoman says immigration and border security should be dealt with separately. The January jobs report shows a strong labor market. The U.S. economy added a surprising number of new jobs, beating expectations. Why are gas prices on the rise again? An energy expert joins us to discuss the problems facing the U.S. oil and gas sector. Are the days of remote work coming to an end? Offices in the United States are now more than half filled for the first time since the pandemic lockdowns began. Carmaker BMW to Invest Around $870 Million in Mexico in EV Push Harald Gottsche, President and CEO at BMW Group Plant San Luis Potosi, speaks during the announcement of a multimillion dollar expansion at the plant of German automaker BMW in San Luis Potosi, Mexico, on Feb. 3, 2023. (Toya Sarno Jordan/Reuters) SAN LUIS POTOSI, MexicoGerman automaker BMW will invest 800 million euros ($866 million) in the central Mexican state of San Luis Potosi to produce high-voltage batteries and fully electric Neue Klasse models, the carmaker said Friday. The expansion, set to add around 1,000 new jobs at its operations in the Mexican state, is BMWs latest push into electric vehicles (EVs) as it looks to convert more than half of its sales into all-electric cars by 2030, it said. More than half of the funds to be invested in Mexico500 million eurosare earmarked for the battery assembly center on the carmakers existing plant grounds, BMW said, and some 500 additional employees will work there. Another 500 jobs will be created in other areas, it said. The remaining 300 million euros will go to adapting and extending the body shop and building a new assembly line to install the battery packs, plant head Harald Gottsche told Reuters. We will start building, constructing the extensions and the new battery assembly in the beginning of 2024, and we will start (to ramp up) production at the beginning of 2027, he said. Harald Gottsche, President and CEO at BMW Group Plant San Luis Potosi, speaks during the announcement of a multimillion dollar expansion at the plant of German automaker BMW in San Luis Potosi, Mexico, on Feb. 3, 2023. (Toya Sarno Jordan/Reuters) The announcement follows several other major expansions from the automaker in recent months, including a $1.7 billion investment in the United States and a 2-billion-euro push to build an EV factory in Hungary. The plant in Hungary has been pitched as the first of BMWs to be completely fossil-free. Gottsche added the Mexico plant was in the process of increasing its solar production on-site and swapping out natural gas for biomethane. We want to beat the Hungary plant, of course, Gottsche said. The push comes as manufacturers worldwide shift to comply with more stringent environmental regulations to mitigate their impact on climate change. Mexico has also increasingly made the push for EVs as it looks to turn half of auto production electric by 2030. While some industry leaders have cast doubt on that goal, Gottsche said BMWs sales in Mexico were already 30 percent hybrid or fully electric. We will need much more renewable energy to make the switch, Gottsche said. ($1 = 0.9236 euros) By Kylie Madry By Nick Kindelsperger From Chicago Tribune ChicagoAre the Chicago people fond of popcorn? asked a Tribune reporter in an article from Dec. 2, 1883. A food vendor replied emphatically: Fond of it? Well, I should rather say so. Who can help but be fond of fresh corn nicely popped, sugared, salted, or buttered to suit the taste? Yes sir, they are decidedly. Since at least the 1870s, Chicago has been a hotbed of popcorn innovation. Part of that has to do with Chicagos role as a transportation hub for grain in the Midwest. But the entrepreneurial spirit of its citizens certainly helped. Not everyone at the Tribune was thrilled about the explosion in the popcorn business. On April 5, 1874, the paper noted that commercial popcorn makers have seen business rapidly attaining gigantic proportions. But the unnamed reporter lamented that the romance of pop-corn has departed; it is all a matter of business now. Instead, he apparently preferred it when it was once manufactured by every Eastern fireside, when winter came to sadden the year. While some businessmen did sell popcorn in bags, one of the most popular options was solidified pop-corn, which was shaped into either a ball or a brick. On July 8, 1883, an unnamed reporter wrote in remarkable detail about visiting two Chicago popcorn factories to better understand the process. If readers had never encountered the snack before, he had it covered with details of the beautiful metamorphosis as corn transformed into something which resembles nothing so much as a white blossom He also wrote that after the sugar had been added, one place added a dye made of cochineal, a dried red insect, to give the popcorn a carmine tint. The reporter wondered if the dye was harmful. No, said the proprietor, it is quite harmless; and then, you see, it gives the pop-corn a sort of Fourth-of-July look. The 1883 article also quoted one of the popcorn factory owners as saying popcorn balls were going out of fashion. That turned out to be wildly premature. A decade later, in 1896, the Tribune wrote about a popcorn vendor in Lincoln Park who served old-fashioned balls of white kernels sprinkled with clean sugar. Though the reporter claimed his figure is as familiar to the people of the North Side as the Grant statue, he also didnt bother to find out the vendors real name. Nobody knows his name, but the fat policeman who has been on the same corner for nearly a dozen years says everybody calls him Popcorn John. Recipes for popcorn balls continued to be printed well into the 20th century. A bare-bones recipe appears in the paper Nov. 6, 1915. On July 6, 1930, a reader with the initials C.G.P. wrote in that she had made some money by selling popcorn balls around the neighborhood. The venture proved a success and I could have sold double the amount prepared daily. A recipe for cinnamon popcorn balls shows up on Jan. 4, 1935, while an Oct. 28, 1966, recipe proves popcorn balls were still fairly popular eight decades after the ill-fated prediction of their demise. Another innovation in the popcorn arts was also taking place during the end of the 19th century. On March 8, 1896, the Tribune reported that Louis Rueckheim, a Chicago candy manufacturer, recently hit upon a very bright, new idea in confections. The Tribune couldnt hide its enthusiasm, declaring in uppercase letters in the headline, DO NOT TASTE IT. IF YOU DO YOU WILL PART WITH YOUR MONEY EASY. The product the German-born immigrant created? Cracker Jack. Chicagoans apparently couldnt get enough. The Tribune quotes a jobber who said it was almost too easy to sell: Cracker Jack reminds me of fishing. Offering Cracker Jack for sale is like baiting a hook. When the fish bite theyre caught. When people bite Cracker Jack they, too, are caught. In 1908, Cracker Jack was mentioned in Take Me Out to the Ball Game by Jack Norworth and Albert Von Tilzer, ensuring millions would associate the snack with the national pastime. Of course, not everyone in Chicago enjoyed so many people hawking popcorn. On Aug. 9, 1925, a disgruntled reader wrote, A fellow has been operating a popcorn stand near me and it detracts from the appearance of the neighborhood none of us like it. Though Garrett Popcorn Shops would eventually gain citywide popcorn prominence, the stores first mention in the Tribune had nothing to do with its food. On Oct. 27, 1953, an article explained how a man held up the companys first location at 10 W. Madison St. for $147. But as the man ran out of the store, co-owner Claude Garrett gave chase, and an unidentified sailor overtook the robber and grappled with him. Though the robber wriggled out of his coat and ducked into the subway at State and Monroe, the money from the register was in the coat and was returned. Mentions of Garrett Popcorn were scarce for the next few decades, but there were other big popcorn developments in between. On Oct. 13, 1972, George Lazarus reported on an exciting new popcorn brand in Valparaiso, Indiana. Orville Redenbacher had been selling popcorn for years, along with various other things like fertilizer and snowmobiles, until a Chicago marketing firm convinced him to change the company from RedBow to his own name. Lazarus sounded skeptical in the article, noting there was disbelief in both the cost and name of such a product. Of course, by Nov. 23, 1988, Orville Redenbacher was doing so well he was called the corn king. But even he didnt think the name would work as well as it did. He told Mike Ebert he paid the Chicago firm $15,000 to come up with a name for the corn, and it was the same name my mother thought of 81 years ago. Throughout the 20th century, the Tribune published a number of articles exploring why popcorn was so popular at movie theaters. In a snarky article Oct. 21, 1957, a writer loudly lamented the practice. Popcorn didnt really get big until people with teeth discovered that if you took it into a motion picture theater, and ate it loudly enough, you could not hear the actors. That writer was obviously in the minority, as popcorn and the movies continued their productive partnership. On Dec. 12, 1986, now-former Tribune dining critic Phil Vettel eloquently described why the two worked so well together: (Popcorn) also may be the perfect movie food. Its cheap, easy to share and simple to find in the dark. People who cant get through an ordinary meal without spilling gravy on their ties still easily manage to stare attentively at a movie screen, share a jumbo popcorn to the very last kernel and never once look down. Diane Lee fills a bag with popcorn at the Water Tower Plitt Theatre on Dec. 4, 1986, in Chicago. (Bill Hogan/Chicago Tribune/TNS) Even Gene Siskel, the Tribunes nationally acclaimed movie critic at the time, was a longtime popcorn enthusiast. On Dec. 12, 1986, he created a comprehensive guide to eating popcorn at the movies. He did not mince words: The key concept of popcorn is that you can make better popcorn at home than they can make at the theater. He even suggested smuggling some in. In wintertime, that should not be a problem. Ive used my briefcase in the summertime. If you forgot to make some at home, he also had helpful advice for scoring the freshest movie popcorn. I try to get there as its popping out and say, Could you just hold the box under the popper? So you get the real hot stuff. But Siskel also declared that if you have the money, you should really stop at Garrett Popcorn Shops before going in: My recommendationand it will sound disgusting to you, as it did to me when I first saw someone order it; but dont let that put you offis to order a half-and-half mixture of caramel and cheeseYou get a sweet-and-sour effect thats fabulous. This appears to be the first mention of this fateful combo in the paper, though deciding on what to call it took much longer. Mentions of Garrett Popcorn Shops balloon in the 1990s, and by 1997 the store is mentioned as a must-visit attraction for tourists. In an impressively long feature about the Magnificent Mile, reporter Victoria S. Lautman marvels at the line outside Garretts Michigan Avenue location. Even in subzero, dead-of-winter temperatures there can be double lines and waits of 45 minutes outside the tiny, 1,000-square-foot store. She also notes that the most popular order is the so-called downtown mix. This name didnt last long. In the same article, the vice president of Garrett at the time, Karen Galaba, explained the history of mixing the flavors. We started getting requests 10 years ago for a combination of our CaramelCrisp and CheeseCorn mixed together. Theres apparently something about the sweet and salty combination thats really satisfying to the palate. The Tribune also found some time to write about other popcorn vendors, including one very small one. On July 4, 2000, David Sharos wrote about The Popcorn Shop, a 5-foot-wide popcorn store in suburban Wheaton. Owner Bill Wakefield said hed gone through two tons of popcorn the year before. His secret? Its not what we do to the popcorn, its what we dont do We use white corn, which is sweeter and smaller and less tough than yellow corn. Now called The Little Popcorn Store, the tiny operation just celebrated its 102nd anniversary. But the majority of the Tribunes popcorn coverage centered on Garrett Popcorn. On Jan. 29, 2003, Eric Paul Erickson referred to the company as a cherished institution. Michael Roach quotes a couple of tourists from Iowa saying Garrett Popcorn was an essential stop in Chicago: This and Marshall Fields It just wouldnt be a visit to Chicago if you didnt stop at Fields and pick up some caramel corn. That didnt mean that Garrett Popcorn figured out the right name for the combination of caramel and cheese popcorn. Though it had once been called the downtown mix, on Oct. 15, 2009, reporter Denise Joyce referred to the combination as the Chicago Mix. But that also didnt last long. On Sept. 2, 2014, a story explained how Candyland Inc. in St. Paul, Minnesota, had copyrighted Chicago Mix back in 1992. Faced with a lawsuit, a spokesman for Garrett Popcorn said the company was transitioning away from calling its world-famous CheeseCorn and CaramelCrisp flavor Chicago Mix to the more ownable Garrett Mix. Assorted sizes of popcorn are on display at Garrett Popcorn Shops flagship store on Michigan Avenue on Jan. 12, 2023, in Chicago. (Antonio Perez/Chicago Tribune/TNS) Clerk Kendra Hudson prepares to fill up a customers popcorn bag at Garrett Popcorn Shops flagship store on Michigan Avenue on Jan. 12, 2023, in Chicago. (Antonio Perez/Chicago Tribune/TNS) The rest, as they say, was history. Copyright 2023 Chicago Tribune. Visit chicagotribune.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. China Deploys War-Oriented Defence Mobilization Offices Nationwide Amid Communist Ruling Crisis: Analysis Experts say Chinese Communist Partys increasingly belligerent moves come when it feels its regime is less stable Chinese military delegates leave the closing session of the 20th National Congress of the Communist Party of China, at The Great Hall of People on October 22, 2022 in Beijing, China. (Kevin Frayer/Getty Images) News Analysis The Chinese Communist Party (CCP) recently touted the need for a new pattern of war-oriented defense mobilization, with related offices popping up across the country. Experts say this indicates a rise in the partys warmongering tendencies linked to the pressing crisis of regime collapse. PLA Daily, a CCP military newspaper, published a commentary by Chen Lixin, the director of the mobilization bureau of Shanghai Command, stressing the urgency to build the so-called defense mobilization that solely exists for war and prepares for war under the overall leadership of the CCP. The article was published on Jan. 31, the same day on which Luohe city in central Chinas Henan Province held a plaque ceremony for the local defense mobilization office. Such military offices have been emerging throughout China since the end of last December, spanning the capital of Beijing, southwestern Sichuan Province, central Hubei Provinces Xianning city, north-eastern Heilongjiang Provinces Harbin city, coastal Guangdong Provinces Chaozhou city, and other cities and regions. Xi Prepares for War Amid CCP Ruling Crisis Guo Jun, editor-in-chief of the Hong Kong Epoch Times, believes that the deeper the crisis of communist collapse and the less stable the regime, the more likely it is to go to war. The CCP is confronted with a huge crisis as the international community has been questioning its responsibility for the COVID pandemic and death toll in China, resulting from its extreme zero-COVID policy and sudden U-turn without sufficient medical preparation. Amidst the crisis, the current CCP head Xi Jinping is placing nationwide preparedness and war mobilization as a priority. The Taiwan issue is much knottier than at any time since China and the United States established diplomatic relations; and it differs from terms of ex-leaders like Mao Zedong, Deng Xiaoping, Jiang Zemin, and Hu Jintao, said Guo on Jan. 29 on Elite Forum, a program from NTD, The Epoch Times sister media. Guo further pointed out that Xis excuse for securing his third term was to settle the so-called Taiwan reunification issue in the next 10 to 15 years, or between 2027 and 2032, a big deal for the CCP. In exchange, the partys high echelons agreed to break the nearly half-century-old practice of setting a two-term ceiling for rulers. The CCP supported Xis reelection, thus, the Taiwan issue became a hallmark of Xi in the party, Guo said. But Xi is pushing himself into a tough corner, according to Guos analysis, this is partly due to too many military actions toward Taiwan inevitably leading to conflict with the U.S. military and several Western military or semi-military alliances. On the other hand, if no military action is taken, Xi will not be able to explain himself to the party, Guo said. What does Xi do now? Xi has already spoken out and sung such a high tune [on Taiwan issue]. Its not just a question of whether Xi can save face, but more critically, the rationality of his reelection will be questioned by the party. The Taiwan issue is a hole that Xi has dug for himself. Taiwanese sailors salute the islands flag on the deck of the Panshih supply ship after taking part in annual drills, at the Tsoying naval base in Kaohsiung on Jan. 31, 2018. (Mandy Cheng/AFP via Getty Images) Political and Intelligence Infiltration in Taiwan The Australian jurist Yuan Hongbing told the Chinese edition of The Epoch Times on Jan. 29 that according to sources within the CCP, Xi has given Song Tao, director of the Taiwan Affairs Office of the Central Committee and the State Council, a secret mission to mobilize all the unification forces sowed by the CCP in Taiwan to prevent Lai Ching-te from being elected as the next president of Taiwan in 2023, hoping that Taiwan will surrender without a fight. If the unification effort fails, the CCP will invade Taiwan by force in 2025, i.e., through a so-called military struggle to solve the Taiwan issue, Yuan cited the sources as saying. Song officially took over the helm of the Communist Partys Taiwan Affairs Office on Dec. 28, 2022, in what was seen as a ground-breaking personnel arrangement. The 67-year-old had served as secretary of the disciplinary committee of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and deputy minister of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, then deputy director of the Central Foreign Affairs Office and, in 2015 minister of the Foreign Liaison Department of the Central Committee (the liaison minister). During his tenure as the liaison minister, Song made several trips to North Korea, Vietnam, Laos, and Cuba as Xis special envoy. The liaison minister had a strong intelligence and secret service character, and Songs role is in line with the CCPs increasingly aggressive policy toward Taiwan, said China expert Wang He. USChina War in 2025: US Warns U.S. Air Force Mobility Command (AMC) Commander Mike Minihan recently predicted in a public memo that the United States and China could go to war in 2025. Minihan said that since both the Republic of China (Taiwan) and the United States will hold presidential elections in 2024 and they will be distracted, which will give the CCP the opportunity to act against Taiwan. In August 2022, the CCP conducted unprecedented military exercises in the Taiwan Strait, which were seen as an excuse to prepare for a potential invasion of Taiwan with a visit to Taiwan by then-Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.). But U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin, when asked in January 2023 whether a Chinese invasion of Taiwan was imminent, said that despite some very provocative behavior on the part of the Chinese military, he seriously doubted that it meant an invasion was imminent. Congressional Reps Call for Stamp Honoring P-22 Mountain Lion A mountain lion known as P-22, in the Griffith Park area near downtown Los Angeles in November 2014. (U.S. National Park Service via AP) LOS ANGELESOne day before a celebration is held in Griffith Park to celebrate the life of Southland mountain lion P-22, a trio of local congressional representatives called Friday for the creation of a postage stamp honoring the animal known as the Hollywood Cat. P-22 was many things: our favorite celebrity neighbor, the occasional troublemaker, and a beloved mascot for our city, Reps. Adam Schiff (D-Burbank), Julia Brownley (D-Los Angeles), and Ted Lieu (D-Torrance) wrote in a letter to the Citizens Stamp Advisory Committee. His exploits were followed not just by ordinary community members, but he had a devoted following online, and his comings and goings were even tracked by the local news. But most of all, he was a magnificent and wild creature, who reminded us all that we are part of a natural world so much greater than ourselves. Even in Los Angeles, the representatives wrote in the letter. Theyre calling for a stamp depicting P-22 in front of the Hollywood signa nod to that landmarks 100th anniversary. P-22 was euthanized Dec. 17 after being examined by wildlife officials who captured the cat following recent signs of distress, including a series of attacks on pet dogs in the area. The lion, one of many Southland-area cats being tracked by National Park Service researchers, gained fame locally for his persistence and durability, successfully managing to cross both the San Diego (405) and Hollywood (101) freeways to reach his recent roaming grounds in the Griffith Park area. A celebration of life for P-22 will be held at noon Saturday at the Greek Theatre. Schiff is among those scheduled to speak at the sold-out event, which will be livestreamed for those who were unable to obtain free tickets. Known as the Hollywood Cat, P-22 became the face of the National Park Services program to track local lions in the Santa Monica Mountains. His exploits were documented in various media accounts, including his daring freeway crossings, hiding out under a Los Feliz home in a standoff that drew widespread attention, and even being named a suspect in the killing of a koala at the Los Angeles Zoo. He was believed to be about 11 or 12 years old, making him the oldest cat in the NPS study of Southland lions. He is believed to have been born in the Santa Monica Mountains, somehow finding his way to his tiny, nine-square-mile home in Griffith Park, separated from his birth area by two of the busiest freeways in the world. Defying expectations, he persisted for more than 10 years in the smallest home range that has ever been recorded for an adult male mountain lion. He was initially captured and outfitted with a tracking collar in 2012. At the time of his last capture, he weighed 123 pounds. After he was captured last month, wildlife experts said P-22 had facial injuries consistent with being struck by a vehicle. Experts ultimately made the decision to humanely euthanize the animal at San Diego Zoo Safari Park, where he was being treated, to spare him further suffering. P-22s advanced age, combined with chronic, debilitating, life-shortening conditions and the clear need for extensive long-term veterinary intervention left P-22 with no hope for a positive outcome, according to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. The cats remains have since been taken to the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County, but exactly what will be done with them remains unknown. Local tribal leaderswho consider cougars to be sacredhave objected to the suggestion that the lion is placed on display at the museum, arguing instead that he be buried in Griffith Park. Decisions regarding next steps will continue to be made together with local tribes, with more information provided as it becomes available, museum officials said in a statement in December. Democrats Approve Bidens Plan, Making South Carolina the First 2024 Primary State Jaime Harrison, chair of the Democratic National Committee (DNC) speaks at the DNC Winter Meeting in Philadelphia, Pa., on Feb. 4, 2023. (Timothy A. Clary/AFP via Getty Images) The Democratic Party on Saturday approved reordering its 2024 presidential primary, replacing Iowa with South Carolina in the leadoff spot. The vote took place during a three-day Democratic National Committee (DNC) event in Philadelphia. Although more changes are possible later this year, the formal endorsement by the DNC is an acknowledgment that the start of the 2024 primary will look very different from the one in 2020. Hundreds of party stalwarts climbed to their feet and cheered after the easy passage by voice vote. States with early contests play a major role in determining the nominee because White House hopefuls struggling to raise money or gain political traction often drop out before visiting states outside the first five. Media attention and policy debates concentrate in those areas, too. President Joe Biden endorsed the new plan after his win in South Carolina in the 2020 primary, following losses in Iowa, New Hampshire, and Nevada. If the reformatted plan holds, South Carolina would hold its primary first, on Feb. 3, 2024. New Hampshire and Nevada would keep their early slots, followed by Georgia and Michigan. Iowas new date has not been determined. The Democratic Party looks like America and so does this proposal, said DNC chair Jaime Harrison, a South Carolinian. The change continues to make us stronger and elevates the backbone of our party, he said. In a Dec. 1, 2022, letter, Biden told the DNC that we must ensure that voters of color have a voice in choosing our nominee much earlier in the process and throughout the entire early window. Four of the first five new states under the Democrats new plan are battlegrounds, meaning the eventual party winner would be able to lay groundwork in important general election spots. Thats especially true for Michigan and Georgia, both of which voted for Republican Donald Trump in 2016 before flipping to Biden in 2020. For 2024, though, the new plan could have little impact if Biden runs for reelection and doesnt see any major primary challengers. Biden, who has not yet announced a 2024 decision, was greeted with cheers of four more years while addressing the convention on Friday. Democrat officials have also spoken of revisiting the voting calendar before the 2028 presidential election. In discussion before the vote, Iowa and its allies argued the action could be seen as amounting to betrayal. Iowa Democratic Party chair Rita Hart said that Republicans in her state were already accusing Democrats of hav[ing] turned their back on Iowa and on rural America. And the partys former chair, Ross Wilburn, had said Democrats cannot forget about entire groups of voters in the heart of the midwest without doing significant damage to the party for a generation. But Rep. Debbie Dingell (D-Mich.), drawing sustained applause, said: No one state should have a lock on going first. Despite the approval, the final slate is not yet set. South Carolina, Nevada, and Michigan have met party requirements to join the partys new top five. But Georgia may not change its Democratic primary calendar date without the Republicans also doing so, and New Hampshire law allows the states governor to move the primary there to be first in the nation. The Republican Party has voted not to change its 2024 primary order, meaning the campaign has already begun in Iowa. Only former President Trump, former Cranston, Rhode Island Mayor Steve Laffey, and former Montana Secretary of State Corey Stapleton have announced bids so far. The DNC has decided to break a half-century precedent and cause chaos by altering their primary process, and ultimately abandoning millions of Americans in Iowa and New Hampshire, Republican National Committee chair Ronna McDaniel said in a statement Saturday. The Associated Press contributed to this report. DeSantis Admin Revoking Liquor License From Orlando Venue for Allowing Children at Drag Queen Christmas Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis speaks after being sworn in to begin his second term during an inauguration ceremony outside the Old Capitol in Tallahassee, Fla. on Jan. 3, 2023. (AP Photo/Lynne Sladky) The state of Florida is yanking the liquor license of an Orlando performance venue, saying the Drag Queen Christmas show it hosted in December was sexually explicit while being marketed to families and children. Advertising for the event did not provide notice as to the sexually explicit nature of the Shows performance or other content, the states Department of Business and Professional Regulations Division of Alcoholic Beverages and Tobacco said in its complaint against the Orlando Philharmonic Plaza Foundation Inc., filed Feb. 3. Respondent promoted the Show using targeted, Christmas-themed promotional materials that did not provide notice as to the sexually explicit nature of the Shows performance or other content, the complaint said, referencing a photo of the events listing online included as evidence. Rather than call attention to the Shows sexually explicit content or acknowledge that it might not be appropriate for children, Respondents promotional material unequivocally stated all ages welcome. Prior to the Show occurring and based on media reports about the Show at other locations, Petitioner sent a letter to Respondent notifying Respondent that sexually explicit drag show performances constitute public nuisances, lewd activity and disorderly conduct when minors are in attendance and that, if Respondent failed to ensure that minors were prohibited from attending such performances, its license would be subject to penalties up to and including revocation. Notice on Door The center nevertheless allowed minors to attend, the complaint states. Its only response was to post a notice on its door that said, while we are not restricting access to anyone under 18 please be advised some may think the context is not appropriate for under 18. The notice was barely visible, as it was printed in small font on a piece of paper taped to the door, the state said in the complaint. The complaint includes photos of children attending the event and some of the objectionable content as evidence. The complaint charges the arts center with six counts: allowing performers to expose themselves in a lewd or lascivious manner and simulate sexual activity in the presence of children under 16; operating a place of lewdness; allowing performers to expose prosthetic genitalia and breasts in a vulgar or indecent manner in the presence of children; knowingly selling tickets to an obscene performance to an audience including children; disorderly conduct; and maintaining a nuisance. In the complaint, the divisions attorney asks its director, Sterling Whisenhunt, to revoke the centers liquor license. The complaint describes examples of the shows sexually explicit content, which The Epoch Times does not include in this account. In response, the Orlando Philharmonic Plaza Foundation, Inc. released an official statement Monday: The Plaza Live has always been a welcoming and inclusive establishment that operates in good faith and compliance with all applicable laws. That includes respecting the rights of parents to decide what content is or is not appropriate for their own children. After hosting similar holiday drag performances for eight consecutive years without incident, we have just been made aware of this administrative complaint and are working with our legal team to evaluate and respond appropriately. The Orlando Philharmonics director of marketing and sales, Cristina Venturini, who relayed the official statement, declined further comment. Governor (Ron) DeSantis stands to protect the innocence of children, and the governor always follows through when he says he will do something, his spokesman, Bryan Griffin, said in an email on Feb. 3. Griffin had said on Dec. 27 that the Department of Business and Professional Regulation was investigating the show. The department was aware, he said, of multiple complaints about a performance of the show in Fort Lauderdale on Dec. 26. By contrast, Ruth Eckerd Hall in Clearwater clearly stated for a Dec. 29 performance of the show that attendance was restricted to those 18 or older, and proof of age would be required. Independent journalist Tayler Hanson, who attended one of the shows, told The Epoch Times in December he is glad someone is doing something. Im thankful to see someone taking action regarding the sexually explicit all-ages Drag Queen Christmas Tour that I reported on earlier this month, Hansen told The Epoch Times. Simulated sodomy, exposed fake breasts, and sexually explicit language has no place around children. There is no such thing as a family-friendly or all-ages drag show. Florida has once again continued to lead the way when it comes to protecting children. This report has been updated to include a response from the Orlando Philharmonic Plaza Foundation, Inc. EU Prepares More Russia Sanctions; Kremlin Readies Offensive Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy (C) speaks with European Council President Charles Michel (L) and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen after addressing a media conference during the EU-Ukraine summit in Kyiv, Ukraine, on Feb. 3, 2023. (Efrem Lukatsky/AP Photo) KYIV, UkraineThe European Union will unveil its 10th package of sanctions against Russia on Feb. 24 to mark the anniversary of Moscows full-scale invasion of Ukraine, a senior official from the bloc said in Kyiv on Friday, as Ukrainian forces gird for an expected Russian offensive in the coming weeks. The sanctions will target technology used by Russias war machine, among other things, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen told a news conference. The sanctions will take aim in particular at components used in the manufacturing of drones, she said, naming Iran as a key supplier of Russia. Closing loopholes that the Kremlin uses to circumvent sanctions will also be a priority, according to Von der Leyen, who was on her fourth visit to the Ukrainian capital since the war began. The exact measures in the next EU sanctions package must be agreed upon by the blocs 27 member countriesa process that can take weeks. Top EU officials met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in a show of support for the country as it battles to counter the Kremlins forces and strives to join the EU as well as NATO. The last such summit was held in Kyiv in October 2021a few months before the war started. The highly symbolic visit is also the first EU political mission of its kind to a country at war. The high-level meeting came as a 60-year-old man was killed and six others were wounded Friday when Russian missiles hit central Toretsk, in Ukraines eastern Donetsk region, the local prosecutors office said in a statement on Facebook. Ukrainian authorities reported Friday that at least six civilians were killed and 20 others were wounded over the previous 24 hours. Among the dead were two brothers, ages 49 and 42, killed when Russian shelling destroyed an apartment building in the northeastern Kharkiv region, Ukraines presidential office said. Their 70-year-old father was hospitalized with injuries. Also, six people were wounded and 18 apartment buildings, two hospitals and a school were damaged in a Russian attack in the eastern city of Kramatorsk on Thursday, Gov. Pavlo Kyrylenko told Ukrainian TV. Four people died when a Russian missile hit an apartment building in that city on Wednesday. European officials were adamant about continuing to support Ukraine militarily and economically, but they didnt provide any new details about Ukraines accession path to the EU. Zelenskyy said Ukraines goal is to start negotiations this year. But the process will likely take years and require the adoption of far-reaching reforms, including a clampdown on endemic corruption as the country receives billions of dollars in aid. Kyiv formally submitted its application last June. Zelenskyy said progress had been made to further integrate Ukraine economically into the EU across several sectors, including agriculture, industry, energy and customs. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy (C), European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen (R) and European Council President Charles Michel address a media conference after the EU-Ukraine summit in Kyiv, Ukraine, on Feb. 3, 2023. (Efrem Lukatsky/AP Photo) Ukraines government is keen to get more Western military aid, on top of the tanks pledged last week, as the warring sides are expected to launch new offensives once winter ends. Kyiv has pushed the West to provide fighter jets and long-range missiles. The U.S announced Friday it will send longer-range bombs to Ukraine, along with air defense systems and other weapons and ammunition as part of a new $2.17 billion aid package. The rocket-propelled, GPS-guided, ground-launched, small-diameter bombs (GLSDB) are fired from HIMARS rocket launchers and glide to targets up to 150 kilometers (93 miles) away, twice as far as the previously supplied U.S. rockets for HIMARS systems could reach. Pentagon Press Secretary Brig. Gen. Pat Ryder noted that the bombs will give the Ukrainian armed forces a longer range capability and enable them to conduct operations in defense of their country and to take back their sovereign territory. Asked to comment on the U.S. move, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov pointed to Thursdays statement by Russian President Vladimir Putin, who likened the Russian action in Ukraine to fighting the Nazis in World War II and issued an ominous warning to the West for announcing new weapons shipments. Those who hope to defeat Russia on the battlefield apparently fail to understand that a modern war against Russia will be a completely different war for them, Putin said. We do not send our tanks to their borders, but we have something to respond with, and it is not limited to the use of armour. France and Italy also agreed Friday to supply Ukraine with a SAMP/T-MAMBA air-defense system, which French officials call the European equivalent of the Patriot system that the U.S. has given Ukraine. The missile battery is slated for delivery this spring. Kyivs forces have a chance of beating back an expected Russian offensive in eastern Ukraine if supplied with the right Western weapons, Zelenskyy said. Our task is not to give them (an) opportunity (for revenge) until our army is strengthened with appropriate weapons. I think we have a chance, Zelenskyy added. Officials in the eastern Luhansk region said Russian forces have disabled mobile internet connections, stepped up shelling and deployed more troops in preparation for an offensive. EU assistance for Ukraine has reached almost 50 billion euros ($55 billion) since the fighting started, according to officials from the bloc. The EU is providing Ukraine with financial and humanitarian aid, and announced it is ramping up its military training mission, from an initial target of pushing 15,000 troops through the schooling to up to 30,000 troops. One focus is to train the crews of tanks that Western countries have offered Ukraine. By Susie Blann Ex-Army Sergeant Sentenced to Life in Barracks Slaying The Law Society of Ontario has lost its way, writes Murray Klippenstein. (Joe Raedle/Getty Images) SAVANNAH, Ga.A former Army sergeant has been sentenced to life in federal prison for fatally slashing and stabbing a fellow soldier dozens of times in his barracks at a Georgia base. A U.S. District Court judge in Savannah sentenced Byron Booker, 29, on Thursday. Booker pleaded guilty last fall to a federal charge of premeditated murder of a member of the U.S. military in the killing of 21-year-old Army Spc. Austin Hawk at Fort Stewart, Georgia. Booker previously admitted in court to plotting the slaying with another soldier whom Hawk had reported to superiors for smoking marijuana. The June 2020 killing happened barely a month after Booker was honorably discharged from the Army when he completed his time on active duty, according to court records. Prosecutors said Jordan Brown, a soldier from Bookers former unit, came to Booker complaining that Hawk had ruined his life by reporting him for drug use. Brown said he was being kicked out of the Army. According to documents, Hawk was alone in his barracks room when Booker got him to open the door after midnight on June 17, 2020. Booker repeatedly slashed and stabbed Hawk with an unspecified sharp weapon. The medical examiner counted 40 wounds, including a fatal gash across Hawks throat. Brown pleaded guilty in December to charges of assaulting a military service member and intimidating a witness. He is still awaiting sentencing. Facebook, Instagram Threaten to Restrict or Ban Project Veritas James OKeefe, founder and president of Project Veritas, at their office in Mamaroneck, N.Y., on Oct. 31, 2017. (Benjamin Chasteen/The Epoch Times) Metas Facebook and Instagram platforms have threatened to restrict or ban Project Veritas after a journalist approached a senior YouTube official about the removal of a video about Pfizers COVID-19 vaccines. On Feb. 3, the nonprofit journalism organization Project Veritas published footage that appears to show one of its reporters questioning YouTubes vice president of global trust and safety, Matt Halprin. The video shows the reporter asking Halprin in public about YouTubes removal of a video featuring a senior Pfizer official, unaware he was being recorded, discussing how the company is considering mutating the COVID-19 virus to develop new vaccines proactively. Halprin refused to answer the reporters inquiries and instead told the reporter not to touch him while also threatening to call the police, before walking away. YouTube took down our Pfizer expose. YouTube gave us a strike and will not let us post for a week, James OKeefe, head of Project Veritas, said in a video. Facebook and Instagram warned Project Veritas that its video of Halprin violates Community Standards. We have these standards because we want everyone to feel safe, respected, and welcome, the warning said. If your content goes against our Community Standards again, your account may be restricted or disabled. Project Veritas also announced on Feb. 3 that it had been wrongfully locked out of its Twitter account for two hours over a post that featured the video of one of its journalists questioning Halprin. The organization said it received a warning from Twitter that the post was abuse and harassment. Twitter later apologized for the move, calling it an error, according to a screenshot shared by OKeefe. In this image from a video, YouTubes vice president of Global Trust and Safety Matt Halprin avoids inquiries by Project Veritas reporter Christian Hartsock about removing a video from YouTube. (Courtesy of Project Veritas) Halprin Video Halprin appeared to be out for a walk or run on a suburban street when he was confronted by Project Veritas journalist Christian Hartsock. When Hartsock introduced himself as a reporter from Project Veritas, Halprin immediately seemed to recognize the organization and quickly walked away. Why did you ban our videotape of a Pfizer director talking about mutating viruses? Hartsock asked, following Halprin. How much is Pfizer paying you to run cover for them? Is YouTube brought to us by Pfizer? he added, getting no responses. Halprin, who was dressed in a hooded sweatshirt, pulled the hood over his mouth. Matt, youre the global head of trust and safety at YouTube. Why dont you trust the public with a matter that absolutely concerns their safety? Hartsock asked. Hartsock told Halprin that millions would see this interview and your cowardice, challenging him to be brave and answer some of the questions. Halprin batted away the microphone, remaining silent. Theyre going to see your absolute contempt for the public trust and theyre going to see your absolute disregard for public safety. Are you sure this is how you wish to portray yourself? Hartsock asked while walking alongside Halprin. Hartsock asked Halprin if he knows how much ad revenue YouTube takes in from Pfizer. How much was at stake? he asked. A Pfizer director talking about mutating viruses, and you dont want the American public or the world to know about it. Why not? Hartsock asked, following the question up by asking if Halprin has any ethical responsibility to people all around the world. Why does the public not deserve to see that videotape? Hartsock asked. Halprin remained silent throughout the inquiries, only speaking at one point to say: You touched me. Thats not something you want to do. Hartsock asked if that was a threat, to which Halprin responded: No. I just said Id call the police if you accost me. Walker Video The Project Veritas video that YouTube removed was originally released on Jan. 25. It showed Dr. Jordon Walker, a director of research and development at Pfizer, telling an undercover reporter for Project Veritas that the pharmaceutical company was exploring the idea of mutating COVID-19 to preemptively develop new vaccines. However, Walker acknowledged the risk and noted that scientists at Pfizer were being cautious in their approach. One of the things were exploring is like, why dont we just mutate it ourselves so we could createpreemptively develop new vaccines, right? Walker said. If were going to do that though, theres a risk of like, as you could imagineno one wants to be having a pharma company mutating [expletive] viruses, he added. In this image from video, Pfizer Director of Research and Development Dr. Jordon Walker speaks about mutating COVID-19. (Courtesy of Project Veritas) Walker suggested that the company was proceeding slowly and being controlled, so as not to advertise its intentions and avoid creating an unintended mutation. He also stated his belief that COVID-19 would continue to be a source of revenue for Pfizer. Obviously they dont want to accelerate it too much. I think they are also just trying to do it as an exploratory thing because you obviously dont want to advertise that you are figuring out future mutations, Walker said. You have to be very controlled to make sure that this virus that you mutate doesnt create something that just goes everywhere. Which, I suspect, is the way that the virus started in Wuhan, to be honest, he also said, adding that COVID-19 is going to be a cash cow for us for a while going forward. In the video, OKeefe confronted Walker regarding the recorded conversation about mutating the virus. Walker acknowledged the authenticity of the video but stated that he was lying in the recording. Walker called the police, but officers didnt take any action against Project Veritas employees. One officer mentioned that if OKeefe hadnt left, he would have arrested Walker for assault. The confrontation took place at a location in New York City. Pfizer responded to the remarks in a press release 48 hours after the footage was first released. Facebook and Instagram officials didnt respond by press time to a request by The Epoch Times for comment. Zachary Stieber contributed to this report. Due to the ongoing global economic crises, the World Youth Forum (WYF) has announced that it is cancelling this years edition of the annual event and that its budget will be redirected to supporting five development initiatives. The WYF was launched in 2017 under the auspices of President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi to bring together young people from around the world to promote dialogue and discuss development issues. The forum has since been held annually in the Red Sea resort city of Sharm El-Sheikh. This years WYF budget will be used to support initiatives with direct impact on citizens, and youth in particular, in Egypt and abroad, Rascha Ragheb, executive director of the WYF, said at a press conference in Cairo on Saturday at the National Museum of Egyptian Civilisation. An initiative will be launched to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), helping entrepreneurs start their businesses or expand their activities through business incubators. The initiative will also include funded training programs where technical support is provided to industrial workers in Egypt, especially in villages and towns that fall under the Decent Life presidential initiative. The initiative will be launched in cooperation with different development partners including the Decent Life Foundation, the Presidential National Initiative for Developing Egyptian Industry (Ebda), the Federation of Egyptian Industries, the United Nations Industrial Development Organisation, the United Nations Development Programme, and the International Labour Organisation. The second initiative, dubbed Learning to Earn, aims to qualify Egyptian, Arab and African youth for the labour market and empower them to obtain decent jobs. This initiative will be implemented in cooperation with the United Nations Childrens Fund and Egypts National Training Academy. The third initiative addresses food security challenges by offering support programs to develop the capacities of farmers and those in charge of food industries in Egypt and Africa. This program will be carried out in cooperation with Ebda Presidential Initiative, the National Alliance for Civil Development Work, the Decent Life Foundation, and the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations. The WYF will also launch a mental health support program to provide psychological, health, and community care support for refugees, migrants and displaced people and their families. This initiative will be carried out in cooperation with the Egyptian Fahem Foundation for mental health and the World Health Organisation. The fifth initiative is an international project to support and empower refugees and migrants by helping them integrate into educational systems and ease their access to healthcare services and social protection programmes. The initiative will be carried out in cooperation with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees in Egypt, the International Organisation for Migration, and Save the Children. The budget allocated to sponsor these initiatives has not been revealed. The WYF also announced that it will launch a platform to promote volunteering culture and support and qualify volunteers to participate in humanitarian and development work, especially in poor and countries affected by conflict or climate change. The platform will also implement exchange programs of volunteers between different countries, in cooperation with the Foundation for a Decent Life, the National Alliance for Civil Development Work, the Arab Union for Volunteering and the United Nations Volunteers Program. Search Keywords: Short link: Federal Labor Promises Medicare Overhaul as Australian Health System Declared Worst Shape in 40 Years (L-R) Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk, NSW Premier Dominic Perrottet, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews and Western Australia Premier Mark McGowan speak to media during a press conference after a National Cabinet meeting at Parliament House in Canberra on Feb. 3, 2023. (AAP Image/Mick Tsikas) Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has said his government intends to act on recommendations from a Medicare taskforce report that seeks an overhaul of Australias healthcare system but says he will discuss its funding in late April. This comes as the federal health minister, Mark Butler, declared Australias primary healthcare system as the worst shape in 40 years, with bulk billing rates in decline and with only 14 percent of medical graduates choosing to work in general practice. Australians deserve access to a world-class primary care system that is designed and funded for the 21st centurya system that reflects the disease profile of an older population, including a population that has more complex chronic disease, Butler said in a Feb. 3 media release that coincided with the first national cabinet meeting of the year. At the national cabinet meeting on Feb. 3, state and territory leaders, along with the prime minister, considered the recommendations outlined in the Strengthening Medicare Taskforce Report (pdf), which included improving healthcare affordability and accessibility for Australians, support for people with chronic health conditions, and easing pressure off the strained hospital system. The Medicare logo is seen in Sydney, Australia, on May 23, 2016. (Brendon Thorne/Getty Images) The report also called for a person-centred approach to be the focus of the reforms, including recommendations to improve access to general practice, optimising health professionals scope of practice, and improving the My Health Record system. The report recommends supporting this with new blended funding models, integrated with the existing fee-for-service model, allowing teams of GPs, nurses, midwives, and allied health professionals to work together to deliver the care people need, Butler said. The Taskforce found that strengthening primary care with a greater range of health professionals working to their full scope of practice will optimise the use of the health workforce across a stretched primary care sector. This will deliver increased access to healthcare and improved equity of outcomes in rural, regional and remote areas. Albanese said integrating the systems so that patients have better and earlierand thereby cheaperhealth care was the key to moving forward with reforming the primary care system. We all understand the challenge for improving our primary health care networks, how that interacts with the hospital system, and theres absolutely a commitment to work on policy outcomes as the starting point, Albanese told said on Feb. 3. Peak Medical Body Not Yet Convinced However, the Australian Medical Association president Steve Robson said while he welcomed the review, there was nothing in the report to ensure Australians struggling to see a GP or facing long operation waitlists were seen any quicker or more affordable. There is absolutely nothing in the report that will provide anything immediately, and that is what we need, he told reporters in Canberra. Australians can see the crisis the health system is in, and we were surprised to see nothing more come out of (national cabinet). We had the most powerful political leaders in the country all in one room, and it doesnt seem like they could agree on anything. Robson added that Australians were tired of Federal Labor blaming the previous Coalition government for the problems in health care. Youve been in government long enough now; its 2023; you need to own this problem; you need to have a national plan, Robson said. Albanese said that healthcare reform was the first priority issue for 2023 for Australias leaders. We all agree part of the issues are people turning up at emergency departments because they dont have other options, Albanese said. Federal Health Minister Mark Butler also announced the federal governments commitment of $750 million to the Strengthening Medicare Funda commitment Albanese took to the election. Medicare has been the crowning achievement of our health system for 40 years, but it is time for reform. Now is the time to ensure Medicare delivers the kind of primary care Australians expect, both now and into the future, Butler said. Sharp Increase in GP Waiting Times: ABS Data In November 2022, the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) released data that showed 39.1 percent of people who needed urgent medical care during the 2021-2022 financial year waited 24 hours or more to see a GP. While people living in outer regional, remote or very remote areas were more likely to wait 24 hours or more to see a GP for urgent medical care. Undated image of medical professionals performing neurosurgery at the Ramsay Health Care-operated Greenslopes Private Hospital in Brisbane, Australia. (AAP Image/Ramsay Health Care) Additionally, the ABS found that there were a proportion of people who waited longer than they felt was acceptable to get an appointment with a GP or a specialist. The proportion of people who could not see their preferred GP on one or more occasions increased to 32.8% in 2021-22, from 25.5% in 2020-21, according to the ABS. Moreover, 16.6 percent of people saw at least one health professional for their own mental health in 2021-2022, similar to 2020-21 of 15.8 percent. Of people who needed to and saw a health professional for their own mental health in 2021-22, 34.5 percent did so at least once using a telehealth service (an increase from 30.5 percent in 2020-21). Additionally, females were more likely to see a health professional for their own mental health than males20.6 percent compared to 12.3 percentaccording to the ABS. Florida Seeks to Ban Vaccine Discrimination Florida legislators are considering state House and Senate civil rights bills that protect residents from discrimination based on their vaccine or immunity status. The protection would extend to people concerning all vaccines, not just the increasingly controversial COVID shots. Senate Bill 222, sponsored by state Sen. Joe Gruters (R-Fla.), and House Bill 305, sponsored by state Rep. Webster Barnaby (R-Fla.), are identical. This simplifies the likelihood of becoming law if both are approved, Mo van Hoek of Health Freedom Florida, the group pushing adoption of the legislation, told The Epoch Times. Van Hoek said the legislation would also protect Floridians vaccine or immunity status from being shared with the federal governments tracking database. The state created a database to that effect in 2019, before the pandemic, and later had to share it with the federal government to receive its allotment of COVID vaccines, she said. This isnt a good bill, its a great bill, van Hoek said. Mo van Hoek of Health Freedom Florida is working to pass a bill extending civil rights protection to those discriminated against for their vaccine or immune status. (Courtesy of Mo van Hoek) The measure would extend and make permanent protections begun in 2021, when the legislature, in a special session, passed temporary protections. Van Hoek said the law will sunset on June 30, necessitating new protections. The 2021 law wasnt tough enough, she said. It had originally been more comprehensive and didnt pass in March 2021. She said the ban on vaccine passports was taken from it and attached to another bill that passed a couple of months later. It had a good impact. It put Governor [Ron] DeSantis on the global map of creating that type of protection for people, she said. But it had a significant loophole. While companies were forbidden to fire unvaccinated employees, they were allowed to set vaccination policies and could use those to force out noncompliant employees, she said. Nick Caturano, a Disney World employee, is one of those who got such treatment. Disney employee Nick Caturano speaks about discrimination against people who refuse the COVID-19 vaccine at the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C. (Courtesy of Nick Caturano) At Disney (if you werent vaccinated), you had to wear an N95 mask with a warning sign and face shield, Caturano told The Epoch Times. The goal was to make your life as difficult as possible. I couldnt have lunch with everyone. I had to eat behind the storage shed. The first bill told them they couldnt fire people, but they could set policies. They could still test me and discriminate against me by making me wear things no one else was wearing, by forcing me to stay away from other people. There was no appetite to make a strong, clean bill at the time. Im grateful for DeSantis, that he was willing to move forward, but this is politics. You have to have everyone on board. At the time, the legislators were not willing to risk political capital by doing this. Caturano still works at Disney and has for 18 years. Hes involved in an effort to sue the company for discrimination. He said they changed their policies and quit isolating him when the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) dropped its mask requirements. At the time, though, he felt the heat of his ostracism. Pandemic of the Unvaccinated It was the pandemic of the unvaccinated. We were the vectors of disease. We all got attacked. People attacked me, spoke down to me, and told me I was responsible for killing people. He said that many objections to the jab are now being found to be true. Health Freedom has set up a website called Vaxbully.com to gather stories of others like Caturano who have suffered such discrimination. Van Hoek said the site has received more than a thousand submissions so far. Bill supporters will use them, she said, to convince legislators the problem is real. Theyve heard from people like a medical student who couldnt do hospital rotations without a COVID shot and a nursing student who couldnt take final exams without one. The nursing student, identified only as T.B. of Jacksonville in a copy sent to The Epoch Times, talked about his experience at a state college: There was not a single term in which I had confidence that my next term was guaranteed, T.B. wrote. For each new term, I was sent correspondence warning me that my continuing education was in jeopardy based on my vaccination status. A few courageous and understanding professors went to great lengths, in opposition to the administration, to help me finish. I persevered and stuck to my ethical and religious beliefs and am now gainfully employed as a nurse. My wife, also a nurse, was threatened with termination from (a large health care organization) nearly weekly for the same reasons. These same institutions that promote evidence-based medicine proved negligent in this area by trying to force an experimental medical procedure on their own people, then reacted in shocked innocence when rebuffed. Shame on them! M.B. of Ruskin wrote: As an employee of the federal government, I was bullied to take the jab. They threatened my job if I did not comply. I tried to request a religious exemption and they ignored it. I was othered and not allowed to go into the office. At another point, they tried to force me to take a COVID test, which again I refused and asked for a religious exemption. Again they ignored it. At one point, I was told I need to wear a mask but those that got the jab did not have to. I am a combat veteran and never expected to experience this kind of tyranny from my own government. This experience has taken a toll on my mental health and well-being. Although I am allowed the same freedoms as my coworkers, I sometimes worry they will come back around to bully me into taking the jab. Vaccine Requirements Van Hoek said a pregnant woman from Jupiter, Florida, contacted her, looking for a pediatrician who wouldnt require the baby to have shots. I made some phone calls, van Hoek said. I called every pediatricians office in Jupiter, and not one of them would allow a baby accepted as a patient unless they adhered to the CDCs vaccine schedule. I called 11 pediatricians. Van Hoeks interest in the issue predates the COVID pandemic. Her son Jan, now 16, was disabled by a series of strokes 13 years ago that she says were caused by his childhood vaccinations. He requires round-the-clock caregivers now. She has never had a vaccination, van Hoek said. She said the bill wouldnt change the status of childhood vaccinations required for children to enter schools. Parents can already get their children exempted for religious or medical reasons, and van Hoek said the existing exemption system adequately protects vaccine dissenters. The religious exemption is extremely flexible, she said, and can be obtained by the parent submitting the childs name and birthdate. The medical exemption requires the completion of Form 680 by the childs doctor. She said she thinks childhood immunization shouldnt be required of anyone but respects the rights of parents to make their own choices. But no one should force anyone to take something when the side effects include death, stroke, and seizure, all effects downplayed in warnings about vaccines, van Hoek said. Everyone has a different risk-benefit ratio. They need to determine it for their own selves. She questions whether childhood vaccines have been adequately tested for safety in combination with each other. Children are now required to take 72 of them; COVID shots would add another 18. Van Hoek predicts the nations growing awareness of problems with the COVID vaccinesthe side effects, the suppression of information, and their limited effectivenesswill prompt a reexamination of extensive childhood vaccination schedules. And she thinks it will provide the impetus to get this bill passed. Republicans have supermajorities in both houses of the state legislature. This will create true medical freedom, van Hoek said. If theyre 100 percent for freedom, they should get behind it. It creates standard protection, across the board, for every Floridian. GOP Fights Biden Deal That Lets Other Countries Tax US-Based Profits Republican lawmakers say the OECD global tax plan has no path forward in Congress U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen (L) meets with Eurogroup President Paschal Donohoe as finance ministers from across the G7 nations meet at Lancaster House in London on June 5, 2021. (Alberto Pezzali/ WPA Pool/Getty Images) The Republican-controlled House of Representatives told the Biden administration in no uncertain terms last week that it wont approve the deal that Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen negotiated with more than 130 other countries to align U.S. corporate tax laws with those developed by the Organisation for Economic Co-Operation and Development (OECD). In one of the more unusual tactics to bring the United States into compliance with international agreements, the Biden administration signed on to a global tax agreement that includes establishing a minimum corporate tax rate on multinationals of 15 percent, which gives Congress the choice of either approving the deal or watching U.S. companies suffer from foreign tax penalties. While Yellen called the move a once-in-a-generation accomplishment for economic diplomacy, the agreement has its critics. The OECD agreement is a bad deal for American workers and families, and it has no path forward in Congress. The Biden Administration cannot override Congresss sole tax-writing authority under the Constitution or turn that power over to foreign bureaucrats, Rep. Jason Smith (R-Mo.), chair of the tax-writing House Ways and Means Committee, stated on Feb. 2. I think the Biden administration thought they had more political leverage than they did with these rules, Daniel Bunn, president of the Tax Foundation, a nonprofit analytical group, told The Epoch Times. I think that was a key mistake that they thought they could get it through Congress with the majority they had, and that was an error on their part. However, Bunn believes Congress will likely approve at least some parts of the deal. I think Congress doing nothing is probably a bad option, he said, because of the risk of foreign tax penalties on U.S. companies that are built into the deal. The new global tax agreement is a complex package that seeks to do away with tax havens and impose minimum taxes in all countries. The plan is divided into two pillars. Pillar One allows countries to tax a companys profits if its products are sold in that country, regardless of where the company itself is based, and would affect an estimated $125 billion in profits. Pillar Two establishes a global minimum tax of 15 percent, which could raise an estimated $150 billion worldwide. Broadly speaking, the plan seeks to increase corporate taxes and redistribute tax income globally, allowing for more tax revenue to go to less developed countries. But Yellen has argued that it could be revenue-neutral for Americans if the United States can collect enough new taxes from foreign companies under the plan. The measures were originally scheduled to be implemented in mid-2023 and would initially apply only to companies earning at least 20 billion euros (about $21.6 billion), although that threshold will likely come down in the future. The implementation now appears to be delayed until 2024 as national governments attempt to work through the details of how it will be implemented and revise existing tax treaties. Some say there is more at stake than corporate tax rates. More About National Sovereignty Than Tax The OECD tax pillars, especially Pillar Two, are nominally about tax, but theyre much more about sovereignty; that is, who gets to make a countrys tax laws, Aharon Friedman, a former staffer at the House Ways and Means Committee and the Treasury Department, told The Epoch Times. The [Biden] administration requested that Congress enact numerous tax increases, and even the Democrats refused to enact most of them, so the Treasury Department went to the OECD and the EU and asked them to enact tax increases on American companies on the income they earned in the United States, in an attempt to force Congress to follow suit. Joe Hughes, federal policy analyst at the Institute on Taxation and Economic Policy (ITEP), says the purpose of the OECD tax deal is to stop big corporations from arbitraging different countries tax laws to avoid paying taxes. A company like Nike might set up subsidiaries in a tax haven where they register the trademarks to their brands, Hughes told The Epoch Times. They tell the IRS they earned their profits where the trademark was registered, rather than where theyre making and selling the shoes. To close this loophole, the OECD agreement would force companies to pay taxes in countries where they sell products. If a country refuses to implement the OECD tax rules, particularly regarding the 15 percent minimum tax, other countries can then tax that countrys corporate profits at a higher rate to make up the difference. If a country doesnt implement the agreement, its companies could still end up paying the global minimum tax, just to a foreign government instead, Hughes said. So if Congress takes no action on it and the EU and UK carry through with implementation, the U.S. will lose tax revenue to those countries. Congress Says It Will Fight Back Friedman says he expects the House wont approve the OECD plan, and if other countries attempt to target U.S. companies for retaliation, that will violate existing tax treaties and the United States will respond in kind. Theyre not going to be intimidated or bullied by the Treasury Department or by other countries, he said. Congress is not going to enact Pillar Two because it doesnt believe in ceding its sovereignty or its authority under the Constitution, and it will take whatever countermeasures are necessary to make sure other countries dont attempt to attack or tax American companies in violation of our tax treaties. A joint letter (pdf) from Republican lawmakers to Yellen on Dec. 14, 2022, appears to support this view. For the past two years, the Biden Administration has routinely made commitments in the OECD negotiations it has no authority to fulfill, the letter states. Despite Treasurys actions to date, it cannot dictate U.S. tax law or compel Congress to act. While some may believe that implementation by foreign countries of the model rules will lead the United States to follow suit, Congresss hand will not be forced, the lawmakers wrote. Nor will Congress sit idly by as U.S. companies and profits are taxed in a manner inconsistent with U.S. law and our bilateral tax treaties. Some see the OECD deal as a Trojan horse. The concern is that, if the United States cedes its corporate taxing authority in this case to foreign organizations, there may be more measures to come. The OECD itself has stated, even boasted, that this is just the first step, Friedman said. Their next step is to open a similar project with regard to carbon taxes, and they also want to examine the taxation of individuals. So one could imagine, just like we are imposing a minimum tax on corporations, they could also impose a minimum tax on individuals around the world. GOP Reviewing Administrations Foreign Agreements The House, now with a Republican majority, is seeking to check the Biden administrations global agreements that may put the United States at a disadvantage. Last week, the House Committee on Oversight and Accountability issued a strongly worded letter to Bidens climate czar John Kerry, demanding to know details of his secretive negotiations with the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). You continue to engage in activities that could undermine our economic health, skirt congressional authority, and threaten foreign policy under the guise of climate advocacy, committee Chair James Comer (R-Ky.), stated in the letter. Noting that Kerry told The Associated Press that he was working with the CCP to form a group to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, Comer wrote: As a member of the Presidents cabinet, you should be representing the United States interests. Your statements, however, consistently show disregard for American national security and taxpayer dollars. At the World Economic Forum summit in Davos, Switzerland, last month, Kerry said that the way to stabilize the climate was money, money, money, money, money. We have to unleash the trillions of dollars for bankable deals, he said. Its so almost extraterrestrial to think about saving the planet, and if you said that to most people, theyd think youre just a crazy tree-hugging lefty, liberal, you know, do-gooder or whatever. The maker of a type of over-the-counter eye drops is recalling the product after federal officials linked it to drug-resistant infections that may have led to at least one death in the United States, said officials Thursday. Global Pharma Healthcare (pdf) issued a recall Wednesday for artificial tears made by EzriCare Artificial Tears after the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued advisories saying they might be contaminated and linked to an outbreak of Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacteria. Global Pharma Healthcare is notifying the distributors of this product, Aru Pharma Inc. and Delsam Pharma and is requesting that wholesalers, retailers, and customers who have the recalled product should stop use, the notice said. Both the FDA and CDC said that there were 55 cases reported across 12 states, including California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Nevada, Texas, Utah, Washington, and Wisconsin. Cause for Concern? Eye infections are always an obvious concern as severe complications including permanent vision loss can result, Paul Volberding, professor emeritus of epidemiology and biostatistics at the University of California San Francisco School of Medicine, told the Washington Post of the latest recall and alert. The current report of infections linked to eye drops is quite alarming. Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacteria are often found in water and soil. Infections generally occur in hospital settings in individuals who have weakened immune systems, according to health websites. But the bacteria, according to the CDC, is constantly finding new ways to evade antibiotics. In 2017, multidrug-resistant variants of the bacteria caused some 32,600 infections among hospitalized patients and around 2,700 deaths in the United States, it says. Dave Patel, an ophthalmologist at the Mayo Clinic in Phoenix, suggested that individuals who dont use eye drops often should be wary of using products that dont have preservatives. Generally, artificial tears use benzalkonium chloride, or BAK. A general view of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) headquarters in Atlanta, Ga., on Sept. 30, 2014. (Tami Chappell/Reuters) Non-preserved products dont have that protection and are in danger of being contaminated, he said. However, for people who have to use artificial tears and eye drops more frequently, they have to use preservative-free products to avoid a buildup of BAK, which can be toxic, Patel said. Using it once or twice a day is not detrimental to the eye, he said. But if you use it six to eight times a day for years, it builds toxicity and irritates the eyes. Another doctor told the outlet that people shouldnt avoid eye drops or artificial tears without preservatives. Consumers do not need to fear or avoid preservative-free drops, Jeffrey H. Ma, with the University of California at Davis Eye Center, told the outlet. They are a great option for dry eyes, as they tend to be more gentle on the eyes and can be used more frequently throughout the day. CDC Alert Earlier, the CDC said (pdf) in a document circulated by the American Academy of Ophthalmology that people should discontinue use of the artificial tears. These specimens were collected in both outpatient and inpatient healthcare settings, the letter reads. Patient outcomes include permanent vision loss resulting from ocular infection, hospitalization, and death of one patient with bloodstream infection. A majority of people used the EzriCare product before they developed an infection, the CDC said. At this time, CDC recommends clinicians and patients stop using EzriCare Artificial Tears products pending additional guidance from CDC and FDA [Food and Drug Administration], the CDC said on Feb. 1. In response, EzriCare noted that it has no role in the formulation or manufacturing of the eye drops, according to a statement issued by the firm this week. It said it first received a CDC notice on Jan. 20 about the product being linked to the bacteria. As of today, we are not aware of any testing that definitively links the Pseudomonas aeruginosa outbreak to EzriCare Artificial Tears. Nonetheless, we immediately took action to stop any further distribution or sale of EzriCare Artificial Tears. To the greatest extent possible, we have been contacting customers to advise them against continued use of the product, EzriCare said in a statement. Based on the CDCs and FDAs statements, its not clear if the affected patients had an underlying condition such as cataracts or glaucoma. Heart failure and even death have occurred among people who received a COVID-19 vaccine, according to a new study. Six people across the four Nordic countries died from myocarditis, a form of heart inflammation, within 90 days of hospital admission after being vaccinated with a messenger RNA (mRNA) vaccine, researchers reported. Twenty-two vaccinated people were diagnosed with heart failure within 90 days of hospital admission with myocarditis. Myocarditis is caused by the mRNA COVID-19 vaccines made by Pfizer and Moderna, experts in the United States and elsewhere have said. Death is a known outcome. Many people diagnosed with the condition are hospitalized. Many of those heart failure or death diagnoses happened in those 40 and older. Eight occurred among 12- to 39-year-olds. Autopsies conducted in multiple countries have found that vaccine-induced myocarditis led to deaths in the young and middle-aged, and previous observational papers have identified post-vaccination deaths among those with heart inflammation. The researchers also found that 62 people who experienced heart inflammation following vaccination were readmitted to a hospital within 90 days of discharge. Of the readmissions, 41 percent were among the younger age group. The new study, published in the British Medical Journal on Feb. 1, drew from nationwide register data from Denmark, Finland, Norway, and Sweden. The data covered people aged 12 and up who had myocarditis listed as a primary or secondary diagnosis for hospital admission since the start of the pandemic. Each country had different end dates for its portion of the study; the latest was April 30, 2022. Because of the nature of the study, researchers said they couldnt say whether the six deaths following vaccination were caused by the vaccination because these deaths could have been from other causes or from conventional myocarditis occurring by chance within 28 days of vaccination. Comparison More people experienced myocarditis after COVID-19 vaccination than after COVID-19 infection530 versus 109according to the new paper. Researchers took those numbers, and figures representing myocarditis cases prior to the pandemic. They then looked at what percentage led to heart failure or death and calculated the risk for each category. Myocarditis after COVID-19 vaccination was less likely to lead to a diagnosis of heart failure or death when compared to the historical myocarditis cases, the study estimated. On the other hand, myocarditis after a COVID-19 infection was more likely to lead to heart failure or death. The risk of readmission to a hospital was lower for people with heart inflammation after COVID-19 vaccination or COVID-19 infection. Among certain groups, though, such as vaccinated women, the risk was about the same as it was for those with conventional myocarditis. Taken together, our findings suggested that the outcomes of myocarditis after vaccination were less severe than other types of myocarditis during the first 90 days after the onset of myocarditis, Anders Husby, a Danish epidemiologist, and the other researchers said. Despite the death and heart failure cases among the vaccinated, the researchers said their results were reassuring and should be considered when weighing the benefits and potential risks of mRNA vaccines against the SARS-CoV-2 virus at the individual and population levels. SARS-CoV-2 causes COVID-19. Limitations of the paper include not having access to cardiac magnetic resonance imaging or other evaluation data that would give insight into the severity of each myocarditis case. Pfizer and Moderna didnt respond to requests for comment. Cardiologists who reviewed the paper and others like it said theyve seen key differences between myocarditis after COVID-19 and historical myocarditis. Dr. Anish Koka, a Philadelphia cardiologist, wrote on Twitter that post-COVID-19-infection myocarditis usually occurs in patients who have elevated troponin levels, which signals cardiac cell damage. Traditional myocarditis is a viral illness resulting in chest pain and heart failure. The post-COVID-19-infection heart injury reflects patients with bad hearts getting very ill, Koka said. On the other hand, post-COVID-19-vaccination myocarditis often strikes young, healthy males without a disposition to heart injury. Dr. Tracy Heg, a California epidemiologist, said she disagreed with the conclusions of the studys authors. Im not getting the same degree of reassurance from their findings, she said, noting that more people developed myocarditis after vaccination than after infection and that the number of heart failure incidents was also higher among the vaccinated. Update From CDC The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) identified a higher-than-expected rate of myocarditis in many age groups, particularly among males, in 2021. The highest rate was 105.9 per million doses of the Pfizer vaccine in males aged 16 or 17, as calculated from reports to the Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System (VAERS), the CDC reported in a study published by the Journal of the American Medical Association on Jan. 25. The reports were lodged between December 2020 and August 2021. Studies on the reporting rates to VAERS have estimated that the rate of post-vaccination problems is underreported to the system and the researchers largely agreed, pointing to how most reports of myocarditis after COVID-19 vaccination had been verified. Therefore, the actual rates of myocarditis per million doses of vaccine are likely higher than estimated, they said. In another recent paper, through surveys of young Americans who suffered post-vaccination myocarditis, and through the patients health care providers, the CDC discovered that magnetic resonance imaging scans (MRI) done in follow-up visits returned abnormal results for a majority of the patients. A significant portion, or 46 percent, also suffered from depression, and others suffered from pain and trouble performing usual activities, according to the surveys. On Feb. 3, Ian Kracalik, a CDC researcher and the lead author of that paper, presented an update of the surveys to the National Vaccine Advisory Committee. In a new round of surveys collected at least one-year post-myocarditis, 23 percent of 60 patients who responded said they were experiencing chest pain, and others still struggle with symptoms such as fatigue and heart palpitations. The percentage of patients reporting at least one symptom, 33 percent, was down from 68 percent in the previous round of surveys. Were seeing a reduction in the number of patients were seeing reporting at least one symptom, Kracalik said. Still, 41 percent of the patients said they have depression, and another 32 percent reported experiencing pain. Health care providers who completed a separate set of surveys 5 to 13 months after the myocarditis reported no patient deaths but that 14 percent of the patients, primarily young males, werent cleared for all physical activity and that four had the same status or had worsened since the last surveys, including one who was readmitted to a hospital. Abnormal findings were reported for multiple patients from cardiac MRIs and other measures, such as electrocardiograms. Limitations of the ongoing study include there being no standard of care for myocarditis after mRNA vaccination. The presented results were described as preliminary and havent been published elsewhere as of yet. Problem With New Vaccines Because they arent as effective against newer variants, the original Moderna and Pfizer vaccines were updated in 2022 to target some of the new strains in addition to the Wuhan variant. The updated shots were introduced as boosters, only available for people who received a primary series. Initial surveillance indicated that myocarditis could also be an issue with the updated Pfizer shot, a U.S. government official revealed in January. During a meeting in which advisers recommended the government replace the original vaccines entirely with the updated shots, Richard Forshee of the Food and Drug Administration said the safety signal for myocarditis was triggered among people aged 18 to 35 after receipt of the new Pfizer booster. Officials still need to investigate more to determine a link but have described the new shots as being similar to the original vaccines. House to Vote on Bill to End International Air Travel COVID-19 Vaccine Mandate A Delta Airlines jet comes in for a landing in front of the Empire State Building and Manhattan skyline after flights earlier were grounded during an FAA system outage at Laguardia Airport in New York on Jan. 11, 2023. (Mike Segar/Reuters) The House of Representatives is set to vote this week on legislation that, if passed and signed into law, would remove the requirement for proof of a COVID-19 vaccine for non-U.S. citizens who seek to fly into the United States. House Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-La.) and Rep. Thomas Massie (R-Ky.) on Feb. 3 separately confirmed the upcoming vote for HR 185. We are voting next week to end the vax mandate on legal foreign air travelers, Massie, who introduced the measure on Jan. 9, announced on Twitter. Theres never been a mandate on U.S. Representatives, Senators, or their staff, so how can we vote in good conscience to mandate it on others? We need to end this policy now. In another post, he wrote, The CDCs unscientific mandate is separating too many people from their families and has been doing so for far too long. It needs to end. Responding to a query about whether the bill addresses land border crossings from Canada, Massie wrote: Unfortunately it does not. I asked to add that to my bill as an amendment but the parliamentarians say its not germane, because the air mandate is based on CDC and the land mandate is promulgated by DHS [Department of Homeland Security]. But, if we can pass this, theres a strong case for passing that soon. The summary of HR 185 reads: This bill nullifies the order issued by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention titled Amended Order Implementing Presidential Proclamation on Advancing the Safe Resumption of Global Travel During the COVID-19 Pandemic and published on April 7, 2022. (The order restricts the entry of noncitizens who are not immigrants into the United States by air travel unless they are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 or otherwise attest that they will take public health measures to prevent the spread of the disease.) The bill also nullifies any successor or subsequent orders that require foreign persons traveling by air to show proof of a COVID-19 vaccination as a condition of entry and prohibits the use of federal funds to administer or enforce such a requirement. The U.S. Travel Association, a national nonprofit representing travel businesses, supports Massies proposed legislation. We have long supported the removal of this requirement and see no reason to wait until the May expiration of the public health emergencyparticularly as potential visitors are planning spring and summer travel, said Tori Emerson Barnes, executive vice president of public affairs and policy. She was referring to the Biden administrations plan to end the national COVID-19 emergency declarations on May 11. Every day this policy remains in place encourages some travelers to avoid the U.S., costing us valuable visitor spending and delaying our efforts to reignite inbound travel, Barnes said in a statement. The U.S. is the only country that still has this requirement for international visitors when there is no longer any public health justification. We thank the bills sponsors for their efforts to remove this outdated, COVID-era policy and normalize inbound travel operations. The latest directive (pdf) from the U.S. Transportation Security Administration (TSA) states that, effective until at least April 10, aircraft operators must require each non-U.S., nonimmigrant citizen to present paper or digital documentation for proof of being fully vaccinated against COVID-19 before boarding a flight to the United States. There are some limited exceptions. A nonimmigrant is someone who isnt a U.S. citizen, U.S. national, lawful permanent resident, or traveling to the United States on an immigrant visa. The Biden administration in June 2022 had dropped its requirement for non-U.S., nonimmigrant citizens entering the United States by air to test negative for COVID-19. It has since imposed new requirements for most travelers from China, Hong Kong, or Macau to test negative for COVID-19 before entering the countryregardless of citizenship or vaccination status. Others who also need to test negative include those traveling from Seoul, South Korea; Toronto; and Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, who were in China, Hong Kong, or Macau in the past 10 days. Reuters contributed to this report. Huntington Beach City Council to Possibly Raise Campaign Donation Limits Residents gather for a city council meeting at the Civic Center in Huntington Beach, Calif., on Jan. 17, 2023. (John Fredricks/The Epoch Times) The Huntington Beach City Council will vote Feb. 7 on raising campaign contribution limits for city candidates. Currently, the citys campaign contribution limits from one individual are capped at $500. The council is considering, however, aligning them to the states limit of $5,500. The issue was previously heard in January, when the council voted 43 to move the ordinance forward for final approval in February with councilmembers Dan Kalmick, Natalie Moser, and Rhonda Bolton in opposition. This brings forward more accountability in our candidates and our campaigns, Mayor Tony Strickland said in a meeting last December when he originally proposed the ordinance. Most cities go along with state limits in California and that allows us to have more informed citizenry when it comes to elections here in Huntington Beach. The raising of the donation limit is a good idea, according to Councilman Casey McKeon because such will encourage individuals to donate directly to a candidates campaign, rather than to independently formed committees, which are not allowed to coordinate with a candidate. Donations made to such pacts are also more difficult for the public to find, he said. It comes down to freedom of speech and local control of yourself, McKeon said. This way the candidate has more control. Jury: Musk Didnt Defraud Investors With 2018 Tesla Tweets SAN FRANCISCOA jury on Friday decided Elon Musk didnt defraud investors with his 2018 tweets about electric automaker Tesla in a proposed deal that quickly unraveled and raised questions about whether the billionaire had misled investors. The nine-member jury reached its verdict after less that two hours of deliberation following a three-week trial. It represents a major vindication for Musk, who spent about eight hours on the witness stand defending his motives for the August 2018 tweets at the center of the trial. Musk, 51, wasnt on hand for the brief reading of the verdict but he made a surprise appearance earlier Friday for closing arguments. Not long after the verdict came down, Musk took to Twitterthe social media platform he now ownsto celebrate. Thank goodness, the wisdom of the people has prevailed! Musk wrote on Twitter. Nicholas Porritt, an attorney who represented aggrieved Tesla investors, said he was disappointed after urging the jurors in his closing arguments to rebuke Musk for reckless behavior that threatened to create anarchy. I dont think this is the kind of conduct we expect from a large public company, a downcast Porritt said after discussing the verdict with a few jurors who gathered to talk to him. People can draw their own conclusion on whether they think its OK or not. During their discussion with Porritt, the jurors told them they found Musks testimony that he believed he had lined up the money from Saudi Arabias Public Investment Fund without a written commitment to be credible. They also expressed doubt about whether Musks Twitter posting was the sole reason for the swings in Teslas stock price during a 10-day period in August 2018 covered in the case. The trial pitted Tesla investors represented in a class-action lawsuit against Musk, who is CEO of both the electric automaker and the Twitter service he bought for $44 billion a few months ago. Shortly before boarding his private jet on Aug. 7, 2018, Musk wrote on Twitter that he had the financing to take Tesla private, even though it turned out he hadnt gotten an iron-clad commitment for a deal that would have cost $20 billion to $70 billion to pull off. A few hours later, Musk sent another tweet indicating that the deal was imminent. Musks integrity was at stake at the trial as well part of a fortune that has established him as one of the worlds richest people. He could have been saddled with a bill for billions of dollars in damages had the jury found him liable for the 2018 tweets that had already been deemed falsehoods by the judge presiding over the trial. That determination, made last year by U.S. District Judge Edward Chen, left the jury to decide whether Musk had been reckless with his Twitter posting and acted in a way that hurt Tesla shareholders. It may have not been that difficult for the jury, Freedman said, because it sort of became like an up-or-down vote. Earlier Friday, Musk sat stoically in court during the trials closing arguments while he was both vilified as a rich and reckless narcissist and hailed as a visionary looking out for the little guy. Over the course of a one-hour presentation, Porritt had implored the jurors to rebuke Musk for his loose relationship with the truth. Our society is based on rules, Porritt said. We need rules to save us from anarchy. Rules should apply to Elon Musk like everyone else. Alex Spiro, Musks attorney, conceded the 2018 tweets were technically inaccurate. But he told the jurors, Just because its a bad tweet doesnt make it a fraud. During roughly eight hours on the stand earlier in the trial, Musk insisted he believed he had lined up the funds from Saudi Arabias Public Investment Fund to take Tesla private after eight years as a publicly held company. He defended his initial August 2018 tweet as well-intentioned and aimed at ensuring all Tesla investors knew the automaker might be on its way to ending its run as a publicly held company. I had no ill motive, Musk testified. My intent was to do the right thing for all shareholders. Spiro echoed that theme in his closing argument. He was trying to include the retail shareholder, the mom and pop, the little guy, and not seize more power for himself, Spiro said. Porritt, meanwhile, scoffed at the notion that Musk could have concluded he had a firm commitment after a 45-minute meeting at a Tesla factory on July 31, 2018, with Yasir al-Rumayyan, governor of Saudi Arabias wealth fund, given there was no written documentation. In his 90 minute presentation, Spiro emphasized Musks track record helping to start and run a list of companies that include digital payment pioneer PayPal and rocket ship maker SpaceX, in addition to Tesla. The automaker based in Austin, Texas, is now worth nearly $600 billion, despite a steep decline in its stock price last year amid concerns that Musks purchase of Twitter would distract him from Tesla. Recalling Musks roots as a South African immigrant who came to Silicon Valley to create revolutionary tech companies, Spiro described his client as the kind of person who believes the impossible is possible. Mr. Koo Bom-ho, the representative of BS Tech in South Korea, attends Shen Yun Performing Arts at the Sohyang Theatre in Busan, South Korea, on Feb. 3, 2023. (Kim Guk-hwan/The Epoch Times) BUSAN, South KoreaSeveral South Korean elites said they saw a great China in Shen Yun Performing Arts and they resonated with the values the performance delivered after attending Shen Yun at the Sohyang Theatre in Busan on Feb. 3. The three principles of truthfulness, compassion, and tolerance resonated with my heart, said Mr. Koo Bom-ho, the representative of software company BS Tech in South Korea. He said these three values are what Shen Yun delivered to audiences. He then showed The Epoch Times a sentence truthfulness, compassion, and tolerance are fantastic! in the Chinese language, which he wrote right after the performance. For historical reasons, many Korean people can read and write Chinese. Mr. Koo said he saw a Shen Yun commercial by accident. After thinking about it for three days, he decided to attend the show. Now he felt lucky that he made the right decision. The costumes, backdrop, choreography, and dancers are all excellent. You cant see this in South Korea in general, he said. The color schemes of the backdrop and the costumes are brilliant. The saturations are like something from a dream or illusion. Mr. Koo said the dancers and soloists had extremely high technical skills and were impressive, but he enjoyed, even more, the Chinese history and traditional values that Shen Yun showed. I have been to Chinas Tai Mountain in Shandong province, the Emei Mountain in Sichuan province, and Changbai Mountain in Jilin province, he said. Shen Yun presented beautiful scenes of Chinas lands, as well as the heavenly world, which is shining and magnificent. The performance gave him spiritual encouragement as well. Mr. Koo said there was one program in Shen Yun that told the story of the Buddha saving human beings. Im a Buddhist. I saw the contents related to Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism in Shen Yun. I think its better for people to have faith and be in a religion. Faith always brings people positive influences, he said. New York-based Shen Yun is the worlds top classical Chinese dance company, and has a mission to show the beauty and goodness of China before communism. For 5,000 years Chinas civilization was built on values and virtues from the spiritual teachings of Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism. Mr. Koo recommended anybody who hasnt watched Shen Yun to attend as soon as possible. You will know immediately when you come, he said. We Should Not Forget Our Willingness to Go Back to Paradise Shen Yun shares a great part of the Chinese culture with the world, said Mr. Choi Woo-won, the president of the Asiatic Philosophical Society. Shen Yun uses artistic performances to deliver information that the materialism that the Chinese Communist Party promoted is a wrong philosophy. Mr. Choi is a veteran Shen Yun fan. He attended Shen Yun every time Shen Yun presented a show in Busan. Due to the pandemic, Shen Yun did not tour in South Korea the past three years. Mr. Choi said Shen Yun is even greater than ever this year. Mr. Choi used to be a philosophy professor at Pusan National University. He understood that Shen Yun wanted to tell people that divine beings do exist. I learned from Shen Yun that we should not forget our willingness to go back to paradise, even when we face evil things. The way to go back is by following the guidance of divine beings, he said. Mr. Choi Woo-won, the president of the Asiatic Philosophical Society, attends Shen Yun Performing Arts at the Sohyang Theatre in Busan, South Korea, on Feb. 3, 2023. (Lee You-jung/The Epoch Times) The name Shen Yun means the beauty of divine beings dancing. In traditional Chinese culture, people cherish the virtues like loyalty, propriety, wisdom, justice, and benevolencevirtues that are universal and shared the world over. Mesmerized by Shen Yun Music Ms. Doh Jin-kyung is the representative of El Salvadoran Honorary Consulate and a flute virtuoso. She was impressed by Shen Yuns music. The show is majestic! It was pure goodness and beauty. I was very touched, she said. The live orchestra is outstanding. Ms. Doh said the orchestra has a unique character and was mesmerizing. She thought the reason for this was the harmonious cooperation between the Western and Eastern instruments. The music is so pleasant to my ears. Im very touched. It still reverberates in my mind now, she said. The music is marvelous. They cooperated with the dances perfectly. Ms. Doh said she loved Shen Yun and would be recommending it to others. Reporting by Epoch Times Staff in Busan, South Korea. The Epoch Times is a proud sponsor of Shen Yun Performing Arts. We have covered audience reactions since Shen Yuns inception in 2006. Man Charged in Tennessee Joggers Death Pleads Not Guilty Cleotha Henderson (L) with his attorney Jennifer Case (R) appears in Shelby County Criminal Court Division VII Judge Lee Coffee's courtroom in Memphis, Tenn., on Feb. 3, 2023. (Mark Weber/Daily Memphian via AP) MEMPHIS, Tenn.The man charged with raping and killing a Tennessee kindergarten teacher during a pre-dawn run in Memphis last year pleaded not guilty Friday. Cleotha Henderson, who has also used the name Cleotha Abston, was indicted last week on charges that include first-degree murder and especially aggravated kidnapping, The Daily Memphian reported. The first-degree murder charge carries a sentence of life in prison or 60 calendar years. However, the Shelby County District Attorneys Office has indicated it may seek an enhanced sentence of life without parole or the death penalty. Police have said Eliza Fletcher, 34, was running on the University of Memphis campus when she was forced into a vehicle after a struggle about 4 a.m. on Sept 2. Her body was found three days later behind a vacant home after a massive police search. Eliza Fletcher in a file photo. (Memphis Police Department via AP) The killing of Fletcher, a mother of two, shocked the Memphis community led to a flood of support for her family. Runners in Memphis and several other U.S. cities held an early-morning running event in her honor a week after she was kidnapped. At his arraignment in Shelby County Criminal Court on Friday, Henderson pleaded not guilty to all charges related to Fletchers death. Criminal Court Division Judge Lee Coffee warned members of Fletchers family who were present in the courtroom that the path to trial could be a long one. If this case goes to trial it will probably be two to three years before its actually tried, he said. I hope we can compress it to less than that. Henderson is also charged with raping a woman in September 2021about a year before Fletcher was killed. He was not arrested on the rape charges before Fletchers killing because of a long delay in processing the sexual assault kit, authorities have said. Burkina Faso's military leader said Friday that there was no break in diplomatic relations with France, which he asked to withdraw its forces, and denied Russian Wagner mercenaries were in the country. Former colonial power France had special forces based in Ouagadougou, but its presence had come under intense scrutiny as anti-French sentiment in the region grows, with Paris withdrawing its ambassador to Burkina over the junta's demands. "The end of diplomatic agreements, no!" Captain Ibrahim Traore said in a television interview with Burkinabe journalists. "There is no break in diplomatic relations or hatred against a particular state," he added. Traore went on to deny that there were mercenaries from the Russian Wagner Group deployed in Burkina Faso, even as the junta has nurtured ties with Moscow. "We've heard everywhere that Wagner is in Ouagadougou... (this rumour) was created so that everybody would distance themselves from us," he said. Paris confirmed last month that the special forces troops, deployed to help fight a years-long jihadist insurgency, would leave within a month. It was anger within the military at the government's failure to stem a jihadist insurgency that has raged since 2015 that fuelled two coups in Burkina Faso last year. Violence by insurgents linked to Al-Qaeda and the Islamic State group has killed thousands of people and forced around two million more to flee their homes. Bloody conflict A landlocked country lying in the heart of West Africa's Sahel, Burkina Faso is one of the world's most volatile and impoverished countries. It has been struggling with a jihadist insurgency that swept in from neighbouring Mali in 2015. Thousands of civilians, troops and police have been killed, more than two million people have fled their homes and around 40 percent of the country lies outside the government's control. Anger within the military at the mounting toll sparked two coups in 2022, the most recent of which was on September 30, when 34-year-old Traore, seized power. He is standing by a pledge made by the preceding junta to stage elections for a civilian government by 2024. After the ruling junta in Mali forced French troops out last year, the army officers running neighbouring Burkina Faso followed suit, asking Paris to empty its garrison. Under President Emmanuel Macron, France was already drawing down its troops across the Sahel region, who just a few years ago numbered more than 5,000, backed up with fighter jets, helicopters and infantry fighting vehicles. Around 3,000 remain, but the forced departures from Mali and Burkina Faso -- as well as the Central African Republic to the south last year -- underline how anti-French winds are gathering force. Search Keywords: Short link: Man Charged With Murdering Bicyclist in Dana Point A man was charged with murder Feb. 3 for allegedly hitting a cyclist with his car and stabbing him to death in Dana Point on Wednesday. Vanroy Evan Smith, 39, of Long Beach, pleaded not guilty Friday to one felony count of murder and an additional charge for use of a deadly weapon, according to the Orange County District Attorneys Office. An innocent man is dead because he took a bike ride to enjoy a beautiful California day along the beach and he was hit with a car and stabbed to death by someone he apparently never met, OC District Attorney Todd Spitzer said in a statement. Vanroy Evan Smith, 39, of Long Beach. (Courtesy of the Orange County District Attorneys Office) Laguna Beach doctor Michael Mammone, 58, was struck by a white Lexus while riding his bike northbound on Pacific Coast Highway near Crown Valley Parkway intersection in Dana Point at around 3 p.m., authorities said. Mammone has no known relationship to with Smith, authorities said. After allegedly hitting Mammone, Smith jumped out of the car and stabbed him repeatedly, according to the DAs Office. Bystanders intervened and restrained Smith until OC sheriffs deputies arrived and detained him, according to the DAs Office. Mammone was rushed to a nearby hospital where he was pronounced dead. Smith is being held at the Orange County Jail on a $1 million bail. He faces a maximum sentence of 25 years to life, if convicted on all charges. He is scheduled to reappear in court for a pretrial hearing Feb. 14. The murder of a complete stranger in broad daylight for what appears to be absolutely no reason is the stuff of nightmares, Spitzer said. This unspeakable act of violence will forever haunt those who were forced to witness it and it will forever haunt all of those who loved Dr. Mammone. Man Sentenced Over 4 Years for Police Chase Crash That Killed Migrant An armed U.S. Customs and Border Patrol agent stands watch at the border fence next to the beach in Tijuana, at the Border State Park in San Diego, Calif., on Nov. 16, 2018. (Mike Blake/File Photo/Reuters) SAN DIEGOA man who crashed a car while fleeing from Border Patrol agents near the Thousand Trails campground, killing one of his migrant passengers, was sentenced Feb. 3 to more than four years in federal prison. Kevin Antonio Quevedo-Moncada, 23, of Lake Forest crashed into a tree after speeding away from Border Patrol agents just before 6 p.m., Dec. 25, 2021. According to prosecutors, the defendant picked up three people who entered the U.S. illegally near the Otay Mesa Port of Entry. After Border Patrol agents attempted to stop his car near the Thousand Trails campground, Quevedo-Moncada drove off rapidly and erratically through the campground and struck a Border Patrol agents vehicle. Prosecutors allege he was driving up to 93 miles per hour during the ensuing pursuit. Quevedo-Moncada lost control of the car and crashed down an embankment and into a tree off Otay Lakes Road. One of his passengers, 52-year-old Gaudencio Gerardo Luna-Vasquez, died at the scene, while two others were hospitalized with critical injuries. After the crash, Quevedo-Moncada climbed out of the car through the front windshield and fled, but was arrested, prosecutors say. Court documents state he was to be paid $2,000 for the endeavor and had previously transported people who had entered the U.S. illegally. A sentencing memorandum from his defense attorney stated Quevedo-Moncada began taking part in smuggling due to his familys dire financial situation. He told investigators that upon encountering a Border Patrol vehicle, one of the passengers told him to Go, go, go! and while in a panic, he sped off. He pleaded guilty last year to federal charges stemming from the fatal wreck and was sentenced Friday to 51 months in custody. Man Sentenced to 3 Life Terms for Killing Girlfriend, 2 Kids in Orange A 42-year-old California man was sentenced Feb. 3 to three consecutive life terms without the possibility of parole for fatally stabbing his girlfriend and their two young sons about a decade ago. Shazer Fernando Limas, 42, of Orange was convicted Dec. 14 for killing Arlet Hernandez Conteras, and their children 16-month-old Fernando Hernandez Limas and 2-month-old Emanuel Hernandez Limas in April of 2012, according to authorities. A young mother and her two young sons deserved so much more than to be left to rot in a closet and discarded like trash by the very person who was supposed to protect them, Orange County District Attorney Todd Spitzer said in a statement after the sentencing. Contreras body was found dumped in a gutter in Los Angeles County. She had been stabbed 48 times, according to the DAs Office. The childrens bodies were never found, authorities said. The killings stem from an argument Limas and Conteras had at his Orange apartment, which resulted in police being called. A few days later, authorities said he killed all three when Contreras returned with the boys and then hid their bodies in a closet on his apartments balcony for 10 days while he went to dance clubs, rented limos, and had friends over, the DAs Office said. He loaded the bodies into a U-Haul rented in someone elses name and dumped Conterass body in an industrial area in Los Angeles County days later and then drove the U-Haul an additional 100 miles where it is believed he disposed of the childrens bodies, authorities said. Limas broke his lease on his apartment a few days later. Management contacted the Orange Police Department after workers entered and reported a suspicious smell, blood spatter on walls, and pools of blood under the bleached carpet, the DAs office said. Limas was arrested about a week later, when police attempted to pull him over for a traffic stop, leading to a high-speed chase on the 405 and the 5 freeways, according to authorities. Limas admitted to killing his girlfriend, but not their children, according to his defense attorney Michael Hill. City News Service contributed to this report. Maryland Bill Would Let Health Care Providers Vaccinate Children Without Parental Consent A bill up for consideration in the Maryland legislature would allow health care providers to vaccinate children without their parent or guardians consent, so long as they feel the child is able to understand the benefits and potential consequences of getting vaccinated. The bill, introduced in the Maryland state Senate, says a minor who is at least 14 years old has the same capacity as an adult to consent to vaccination. The bill further states minors under the age of 14, including a minor who is developmentally disabled or unemancipated, has the capacity to consent to vaccination if: in the opinion of the health care provider, the minor is of sufficient intelligence to understand and appreciate the need for, nature of and the significant risks and consequences of the vaccination; and the minor is able to give informed consent. While the bill states a minor over the age of 14 has the same decision-making ability as an adult when it comes to choosing to get a vaccine, it also states that if a parent or guardian has decided to vaccinate their minor child, then that child cannot refuse the vaccine. The law specifically states that the capacity of a minor to consent to vaccination under this section does not include the capacity to refuse vaccination for which a parent or guardian has given consent. Democratic State Sen. Cheryl Kagan introduced the bill on Wednesday. The bill is set to go before a hearing in the Senate Finance Committee on Feb. 22. NTD reached out to Kagan for comment about the legislation but did not immediately receive a response. The bill states that if a health care provider vaccinates a minor without the knowledge or consent of that minors parents or guardians, the minors vaccination records would not be released to those parents or guardians in any manner without that minors consent. The minor shall have access to the medical records without their parent or guardians consent. Other Parental Consent Laws Kagan is not the first lawmaker to introduce legislation to allow health care providers to vaccinate children without the knowledge or consent of their parents. Democratic Connecticut state Rep. Kevin Ryan introduced a bill that would allow children twelve years of age and older to receive a vaccination without the consent of a parent or guardian. Forty-one states require individuals to be at least 18 to consent on their own to vaccination, according to the Kaiser Family Foundation (KFF). Nebraska requires individuals to be at least 19 to consent. Three states allow minors to consent to vaccination at 16 and one allows minors to consent at 15. Four other states have no specific age cut-off, allowing medical providers to simply waive consent at their discretion. California and Philadelphia are among the states that allow individuals to consent when they are 18, though San Francisco allows minors that are 12 years old or older to consent and Philadelphia allows minors who are 11 years old or older to consent. The District of Columbia also passed a law in 2021 that allowed 11-year-olds to consent to vaccination on their own. A federal judge blocked that law, finding that it violated parental religious liberty and ability to monitor their children for adverse effects. The district then refined the law, allowing emancipated or homeless minors to consent to vaccination. A D.C. health care provider can also vaccinate a consenting 11-year-old so long as theyve made a reasonable attempt to notify a parent or legal guardian. From NTD News Microsoft: Iran Unit Behind Charlie Hebdo Hack-and-Leak Op A special edition of the satirical newspaper Charlie Hebdo that marks one year after, "1 an apres" the attacks on it, on a newsstand at a train station in Paris on Jan. 6, 2016. (Francois Mori/AP Photo) After the French satirical magazine Charlie Hebdo launched a cartoon contest to mock Irans ruling cleric, a state-backed Iranian cyber unit struck back with a hack-and-leak campaign that was designed to provoke fear with the claimed pilfering of a big subscriber database, Microsoft security researchers say. The FBI blames the same Iranian cyber operators, Emennet Pasargad, for an influence operation that sought to interfere in the 2020 U.S. presidential election, the tech giant said in a blog published Friday. Iran has in recent years stepped up false-flag cyber operations as a tool for discrediting foes. Calling itself Holy Souls and posing as hacktivists, the group claimed in early January to have obtained personal information on 200,000 subscribers and Charlie Hebdo merchandise buyers, according to Microsofts Digital Threat Analysis Center. As proof of the data theft, Holy Souls released a 200-record sample with names, phone numbers, and home and email addresses of Charlie Hebdo subscribers that could put the magazines subscribers at risk for online or physical targeting by extremists. The group then advertised the supposed complete data cache on several dark web sites for $340,000. Microsoft said it did not know whether anyone purchased the cache. A representative for Charlie Hebdo said Friday that the newspaper would not comment on the Microsoft research. Irans mission to the United Nations did not immediately respond to a request for comment Friday. The Jan. 4 sample release coincided with the publication of Charlie Hebdos cartoon contest issue. Entrants were asked to draw offensive caricatures of Irans supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The French newspaper Le Monde verified multiple victims of the leak from the sample, Microsoft said. The Iranian cyber operators sought to boost news of the hack-and-leak operationand fuel outrage at the cartoon editionthrough fake French sock-puppet accounts on social media platforms that included Twitter, Microsoft said. The operation coincided with verbal attacks by Tehran condemning Charlie Hebdos insult. The magazine has a history of publishing vulgar cartoons which some Muslims consider insulting. Two French-born al-Qaeda extremists attacked the newspapers office in 2015, killing 12 cartoonists, and Charlie Hebdo has been the target of other attacks over the years. The magazine billed the Khamenei caricature contest as a show of support for nationwide anti-regime protests that have convulsed Iran since the mid-September death of Mahsa Amini, a 22-year-old woman detained by Irans morality police for allegedly violating the countrys strict Islamic dress code. After the cartoon issue was published, Iran shut down a decades-old French research institute. Last week, it announced sanctions targeting more than 30 European individuals and entities, including three senior Charlie Hebdo staffers. The sanctions are largely symbolic as they bar travel to Iran and allow its authorities to block bank accounts and confiscate property in Iran. According to the FBI, Emennet Pasargad authored what amounted to a relatively ham-fisted campaign to interfere with the 2020 U.S. presidential election. The group obtained confidential U.S. voter information from at least one state election website and sent threatening email messages to intimidate voters posing as the Proud Boys group, the FBI says. Emennet Pasargad has also, since 2018, conducted cyber-operations targeting news, shipping, airlines, oil, and petrochemical, financial, and telecommunications, in the United States, Europe, and the Middle East, the FBI says. The U.S. newspaper chain Lee Enterprises was among the suspected targets, according to the Council on Foreign Relations. The groups attacks since 2020 have primarily targeted Israel, the FBI says. They follow a pattern of intrusion, theft, data leak and then amplification through social media and online forums. In some cases destructive malware has been used. Missouri Gov: Zero News From Biden on Chinese Spy Balloon Now Flying Over His State Missouri Gov. Mike Parson still hasnt heard anything from the Biden administration about a Chinese surveillance balloon that has drifted over Missouri airspace in its eastward path across the United States, a Parson staffer confirmed to The Epoch Times late in the afternoon on Feb. 3. We have received zero communication from the Biden Administration regarding reports of the suspected Chinese spy balloon now flying over Missouri, Parson wrote on Twitter on the afternoon of Feb. 3. We have heard no explanation or plan to remove it. Why has this been allowed to reach our heartland? Why has it not been eliminated? he added. The National Weather Service (NWS) in Kansas City posted that same day photographs of a balloon seen in the area on Twitter, writing, We have confirmed that it is not an NWS weather balloon. Parsons comment comes as Sen. Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) has called for an investigation into the object and its appearance by the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee. Sen. Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) listens during a hearing in Washington, Sept. 23, 2020. (Greg Nash/Pool/Getty Images) This is a gross violation of American sovereignty, Hawley wrote in a letter to the committees chair, Sen. Gary Peters (D-Mich.) This is a matter of homeland security, and we should hear from senior members of the Biden Administration to understand their response, or lack thereof, so far. A staffer for Hawley did not confirm whether the lawmaker has been in communication with the Biden White House. The Epoch Times has also reached out to Sen. Eric Schmitt (R-Mo.) and the White House. Debris Field Cited in Decision Not to Shoot It Down The balloon was previously seen over Montana, the site of multiple nuclear silos. Before that it passed over Alaskas Aleutian Islands and Canada. Defense Department spokesperson Air Force Brig. Gen. Pat Ryder said on Feb. 3 that the balloon, spotted over Montana on Feb. 2, would likely remain over the United States for multiple days. A senior defense official on Feb. 2 told reporters that Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin and other top defense leadership convened Feb. 1 to discuss the proper course of action regarding the balloon. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin speaks during a meeting with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi at the Pentagon in Washington on Dec. 14, 2022. (Saul Loeb/AFP via Getty Images) The official said the group arrived at a strong recommendation not to shoot it down due to the risk to safety and security of people on the ground from the possible debris field. Instances of this kind of balloon activity have been observed previously over the past several years, the official said, adding that the United States had been monitoring the balloon for some time. It has happened a handful of other times over the past few years, to include before this administration. China has said the object is not meant to spy on the United States. It is a civilian airship used for research, mainly meteorological, purposes, reads a statement from the Peoples Republic of Chinas (PRCs) Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The statement went on to claim that winds and the crafts limited self-steering capability led it to [deviate] far from its planned course. The Pentagon disagrees. The Pentagon building in Washington, on Dec. 26, 2011. (AFP via Getty Images) We are aware of the PRC statement. The fact is we know it is a surveillance balloon, Ryder told reporters on Feb. 3. Montana Authorities Address Massive Explosion Rumors in Sky Where Chinese Spy Balloon Was Spotted Montana Gov. Greg Gianforte, who was a Congressional representative at the time, is seen on Capitol Hill in Washington, on Dec. 6, 2017. (Drew Angerer/Getty Images) Montana officials have issued a statement saying that reports of a massive explosion taking place in the sky near where a Chinese spy balloon was spotted are inaccurate after a video went viral on social media purporting to show several blasts in the sky over Billings and what could be debris falling to the ground. Two explosions and a trail of smoke in the sky over Billings Montana, where the balloon had been flying over the region, were captured on camera on Friday. Dolly Moore, who shot the video and shared it on Twitter, said she saw a jet zooming by so fast followed by explosions. The video was shared widely on social media and was picked up by a number of cable networks, drawing speculation whether the U.S. military had shot down the spy balloon, as a number of prominent current and former officials had called for. A high-altitude balloon floats over Billings, Mont., on Feb. 1, 2023. (The Canadian Press/The Billings Gazette via AP-Larry Mayer) In an appearance on Tucker Carlson Tonight, Montana Gov. Greg Gianforte said he had just been informed of an apparent explosion and that authorities were monitoring the situation and would provide an update when more information became available. Initially, the City of Billings put out a statement on Twitter saying that they were aware of the video and claims of a massive explosion over Billings but that no plane crashes had been caught on radar and no emergency crews had been called in to respond to any incidents. In a follow-up statement, the City of Billings said that Gianforte and the Montana Department of Emergency Services had confirmed there was no explosion in or around Billings, Montana. They are aware of the video and it can not be substantiated, the statement said. Pentagon officials, who have called the balloons presence over U.S. airspace at around 60,000 feet a clear violation of U.S. sovereignty, have said that they would most likely not shoot it down due to the risk of debris falling on civilian areas. A senior defense official on Feb. 2 told reporters that Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin and other top defense leadership convened on Feb. 1 to discuss the proper course of action regarding the balloon. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin speaks during a meeting with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi at the Pentagon in Washington on Dec. 14, 2022. (Saul Loeb/AFP via Getty Images) The official said the group arrived at a strong recommendation not to shoot it down due to the risk to safety and security of people on the ground from the possible debris field. Instances of this kind of balloon activity have been observed previously over the past several years, the official said, adding that the United States had been monitoring the balloon for some time. It has happened a handful of other times over the past few years, to include before this administration. Defense Department spokesperson Air Force Brig. Gen. Pat Ryder said on Feb. 3 that the balloon would likely remain over the United States for multiple days. China has said the object is not intended to spy on the United States. It is a civilian airship used for research, mainly meteorological, purposes, reads a statement from the Peoples Republic of Chinas (PRCs) Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The statement went on to claim that winds and the crafts limited self-steering capability led it to [deviate] far from its planned course. The Pentagon disagrees with Chinas official take on the balloon. The Pentagon building in Washington, on Dec. 26, 2011. (AFP via Getty Images) We are aware of the PRC statement. The fact is we know it is a surveillance balloon, Ryder told reporters on Feb. 3. Unanswered questions remain about the balloon, with Montanas governor penning a letter to Austin asking for more information and expressing the view that it should have been taken down well before now. With Malmstrom Air Force Base and United States intercontinental ballistic missile fields in Montana, what intelligence does DoD believe the CCPs spy balloon is gathering and what threat does the CCPs spy balloon pose to our national security? was one of Gianfortes questions. Another was what actions had the Pentagon and the Biden administration taken to bring down the balloon and if there are none, why not? The Chinese Communist Party flew a spy balloon over Montana, and its making its way over other states. It should have been taken down well before now. Montanans and all Americans deserve full answers from the Biden administration now. pic.twitter.com/N1QK0o2Is2 Governor Greg Gianforte (@GovGianforte) February 3, 2023 Several Montana lawmakers have disagreed with the decision not to shoot down the object. Rep. Ryan Zinke (R-Mont.) told Fox News Digital that he thinks there is no doubt that U.S. forces could have shot down the balloon without endangering civilians. In Montana, Petroleum County, for example the least populated county in the lower 48, I guarantee you, the fine citizens of Petroleum County would enjoy having it shot down over their county, and probably there would be a line to shoot it down. Sen. Steve Daines (R-Mont.) also voiced strong disapproval, saying that the U.S. treatment of the Chinese balloon was an outrage and an embarrassment. Nathan Worcester contributed to this report. Shen Yun Performing Arts World Companys curtain call at the Sohyang Theatre in Busan, South Korea, on Feb. 3, 2023. (Kim Guk-hwan/The Epoch Times) BUSAN, South KoreaA Korean entrepreneur said his body and soul were cured after attending Shen Yun Performing Arts at the Sohyang Theatre in Busan on Feb. 3. The dances are fast-paced and full of energy. The colors are gorgeous and overwhelming. I just felt my two eyes werent enough to see everything, said Mr. Shin Seong-min, the president of HANJIN Electric Device Co. Mr. Shin said he knew about Shen Yun from seeing an online video. He had big expectations when he entered the theatre. Shen Yun won his admiration. Each program interprets the quintessential romance of each dynasty, and presented the different splendor on the stage, he said. The artistic expressions are very impressive. New York-based Shen Yun is the worlds top classical Chinese dance company and aims to revive 5,000 years of divinely inspired culture through dance, original orchestral compositions, a dynamic backdrop, and bel canto soloists. Mr. Shin recalled that many figures in different programs jumped from the stage and entered the patented animated backdrop. Many others flew down from the backdrop and landed on the stage. The connection between the backdrop and the stage is very natural and clean. Its very interesting to watch, he said. Mr. Shin said he felt he was in heaven during the performance because of the beauty as well as the fantastic design of the whole show. In our lives, we are always busy and pursuing something. Today, Shen Yun cured both my body and mind. My mind is very clear now, he said. I felt like I am in a brand-new world. New York-based Shen Yun has a mission to show the beauty and goodness of China before communism. For 5,000 years Chinas civilization was built on values and virtues from the spiritual teachings of Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism. Mr. Shin Seong-min, the president of HANJIN Electric Device Co., attends Shen Yun Performing Arts at the Sohyang Theatre in Busan, South Korea, on Feb. 3, 2023. (Kim Guk-hwan/The Epoch Times) My Heart Was Opened Mr. Ga Soo-yong, the chair of the Busan metropolitan branch of the International Relief Organization, was surprised that my heart was opened when I first heard Shen Yuns majestic music. Actually, all the music pieces shook my heart. Theyre brilliant. Mr. Ga enjoyed the classical Chinese dance as well. The female dancers movements are very elegant and graceful. And the male dancers danced very powerfully and valiantly, he said. They work together and present us a magnificent beauty. Mr. Ga said he was very touched and wanted to attend again with his wife. Mr. Ha Gyeong-kook, a department director of a big data company, attended Shen Yun together with Mr. Ga. He thought Shen Yun was related to some religion before seeing it. After the show, he said he recognizes that Shen Yun is telling the truth and bringing people beauty. Shen Yun uses very high tech. I felt I was inside the metaverse, said Mr. Ha. The beautiful scenes are still in my mind and I still can hear the great music. Its fabulous. Each Shen Yun performance consists of nearly 20 vignettes, presented through highly-expressive art forms such as classical Chinese dance, original orchestral music performed live, soloists who sing in the bel canto tradition, animated digital backdrops, and more. Beauty of Humanity Shen Yun awakens our primordial instincts as human beings. It lets us see so many beautiful connotations of humanity. I can say that this is the performance that most close to our human beings roots, said Mr. Park Soo-jin, a director of the Korean securities platform PB Center. Mr. Park said Shen Yun conveyed human values via a great production, such as the stage and backdrop are cooperating with each other, which is a 3-D design and different from any other performance. Its worth attending Shen Yun just to see this backdrop design. But Shen Yun has much more, such as extraordinarily beautiful costumes, the dancers high techniques, and more, he said. All the factors come together to make this amazing performance. Mr. Lee Jin-woo, the president of an international ambulance agency, appreciated the values that Shen Yun brought to people. I was very moved by a dance on the snow-capped mountains. The dancers danced vigorously. They deeply touched my heart, he said. It made me feel that we should live with full spirits even in a harsh environment or in a very difficult moment. Mr. Lee felt that the young generations have lost traditional values and dont want to endure hardships in South Korea. Shen Yun showed us that communication between people is very important. People must work together, he said. I will suggest relatives and friends to watch Shen Yun. Shen Yun gave people hope. Mr. Lee Jin-woo, the president of an international ambulance agency, attends Shen Yun Performing Arts at the Sohyang Theatre in Busan, South Korea, on Feb. 3, 2023. (Kim Guk-hwan/The Epoch Times) Reporting by Epoch Times Staff in Busan, South Korea. The Epoch Times is a proud sponsor of Shen Yun Performing Arts. We have covered audience reactions since Shen Yuns inception in 2006. NC Supreme Court Hands Win to GOP on Redistricting, Voter ID A sign reminds voters they need photo ID to vote on Election Day at a polling station at Hillsboro Presbyterian Church in Nashville, Tenn., on Nov. 6, 2018. (Drew Angerer/Getty Images) The North Carolina Supreme Court has handed a victory to the states Republican legislators by siding with a petition that asked the high court to rehear cases involving election maps and voter identification laws. In a vote along partisan lines, the states Supreme Court voted 52 on Feb. 3 to rehear the two cases in Marchwhich had previously gone against North Carolinas Republican lawmakers. Two Republicans running for seats on the North Carolina Supreme Court in the November midterm election beat their Democrat opponents, flipping the composition of the court red for the first time since 2016, and reviving GOP hopes to revisit the cases. In one of the cases, Holmes v. Moore, the state Supreme Court ruled on Dec. 16, 2022, to strike down a law requiring photo voter identification. The justification for that decision was supposed discrimination against minorities. Justice Trey Allen wrote in an order on Feb. 3 that the criteria for adjudicating the request by GOP legislative leaders for the case to be reheard have been met. In a dissenting opinion, Justice Michael Morgan questioned whether the decision to rehear the case would call into question the courts impartiality. In the other case, Moore v. Harper (formerly Harper v. Hall), the then Democrat-dominated court ruled on Dec. 16, 2022, to confirm a lower court decision to reject legislators version of a congressional election map and the state Senate election map. Allen wrote in a separate order that the court has found sufficient grounds to rehear the case. The redistricting case has since made its way to the U.S. Supreme Court, which has reportedly been considering whether to hand down a decision in the case that could have far-reaching consequences for the authority state courts have to impose limits on how state legislatures set election rules. The U.S. Supreme Court heard oral arguments in Moore v. Harper on Dec. 7, 2022, but isnt expected to rule on it for several months. This means that the North Carolina Supreme Court could potentially issue a ruling in the case that reverses the Republican loss before the U.S. Supreme Court has issued its decision. The Feb. 3 rulings by the North Carolina Supreme Court mean that both cases will be reheard on March 14, 2023. More Details In a recent legal filing, Republican lawmakers argued in Moore v. Harper that the North Carolina Supreme Court wrongfully infringed on state lawmakers ability to determine boundaries of legislative and congressional districts. The courts December 2022 ruling said that the state Senate boundaries redrawn previously by Republican legislators were tainted by partisan leanings and must be redrawn. It also ruled to uphold a congressional map drawn by lower court judges but that Republicans opposed. A separate filing by Republican lawmakers argued that the correct legal standard wasnt applied in a decision that the state Supreme Court upheld on voter ID. Holmes was wrongly decided based on a predetermined outcome. We now have a chance to right this wrong and deliver on voter ID, which the voters of this state overwhelmingly support, said Sam Hayes, general counsel for the House speaker, according to Spectrum News 1. For more than a decade, North Carolina Republicans have been seeking to pass a law that would require voters to present photo identification. The state legislature passed voter ID laws in 2013, but they were struck down by a federal court. A similar law adopted in 2018 was struck down by the state Supreme Court in December 2022. Lawmakers from both sides of the aisle are demanding action from the Biden administration on Feb. 3, after a Chinese spy balloon was discovered over U.S. airspace. President Joe Biden chose not to shoot the balloon down due to potential risks to civilians on the ground. China claims that the balloon, which is the size of three buses, is a research airship blown off course. But the Pentagon rejected that claim, saying it is used for intelligence gathering. Meanwhile, Secretary of State Antony Blinken has postponed his trip to China amid rising tensions between the two countries. As a dangerously cold weather front hits the Northeast and New England, officials put emergency plans into place. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported the U.S. economy added 517,000 jobs in January. The unemployment rate fell to 3.4 percent, a level the country hasnt seen since 1969. Mike Benz, executive director of the Foundation for Freedom Online and a former State Department diplomat under the Trump administration, explains how online censorship started and says it is much worse than shown in the Twitter Files. Two young Orthodox Christians were killed in an attack on a church in southern Ethiopia on Saturday, according to a report by a religious media outlet. The incident comes against a backdrop of tensions in the ancient Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church after rebel bishops created their own synod in Oromia, the country's most populous region. Abune Henok, Archbishop of Addis Ababa Diocese, described the attack in the city of Shashamene as "shameful and heartwrenching", according to the Church-affiliated Tewahedo Media Center (TMC). It said two people had been killed, and another four had sustained heavy injuries, accusing security forces of carrying out the assault in the Oromia city that lies about 250 kilometres (150 miles) south of Addis Ababa. It was not possible to independently verify the report. Abune Henok called on the authorities in Oromia, also the largest geographic region in Ethiopia, to stop the "persecution" of Orthodox Christians, according to the TMC. The unity of the Church, one of the oldest in the world and which accounts for about 40 percent of Ethiopia's 115 million population, is under threat after the move by the rebel clergy last month. The Church, headed by Patriarch Abune Mathias for a decade, has declared the breakaway synod illegal and excommunicated the bishops involved. It has also accused the government of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed of interfering in its affairs and making comments that effectively recognised the "illegitimate group". Addressing cabinet members earlier in the week, Abiy -- who is himself from the Oromo community -- called for the rivals to engage in dialogue and said both sides had their "own truths". The breakaway bishops accuse the Church of discrimination and linguistic and cultural hegemony, saying congregations in Oromia are not served in their native language, claims rejected by the patriarchate. Orthodox leaders have long complained of religious persecution, including the burning of churches several years ago, and relations with the government have been tense in the past, including over the Tigray conflict. The World Council of Churches on Friday issued a statement voicing "deep concern" about the developments in the Ethiopian institution. "We call upon all political leaders in Ethiopia to support the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church in its efforts to achieve unity and peace among its members," WCC general secretary Jerry Pillay said. Search Keywords: Short link: Retiree Living on Boat Near San Francisco Sues Agency Trying to Evict Him to Protect Seagrass A retired man living on a boat near San Francisco is suing a local agency thats trying to evict him from his home to protect a species of seagrass that lines the bay where he lives. Dozens of people, including Daniel Knight, a 65-year-old retired truck driver, live on boats anchored in Richardson Bay, a shallow arm of San Francisco Bay located in Marin County, California. The lead defendant in the lawsuit, the San Rafael-based Richardson Bay Regional Agency (RBRA), describes itself as dedicated to maintaining and improving the navigational waterways, open waters, and shoreline of Richardson Bay. The RBRA argues that vessels anchored in Richardson Bay harm the eelgrass that grows on the bay floor and wants the boats removed. Eelgrass grows in the temperate unconsolidated substrate of shallow coastal environments, enclosed bays, and estuaries and is considered to be a highly productive species thats a foundation or habitat-forming species, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Eelgrass is under threat from both natural and human-induced mechanisms, but human population expansion and associated pollution and upland development is the primary cause of its loss in the state, the NOAA report (pdf) states. But Knight, who lives on a 35-foot sailboat, is suing in federal court, claiming that his constitutional rights have been violated. He says the governmental body has failed to follow proper procedures and has refused to offer fair compensation for the boat it wishes to condemn. David Breemer, a senior attorney at Pacific Legal Foundation (PLF), a national nonprofit public interest law firm that challenges government overreach, said local authorities have decided that boat anchors in Richardson Bay are destroying eelgrass on the bottom of the bay and want to get rid of the boats in the hope of creating an anchor-free area in the bay that may allow the grass to grow back. People have been living on houseboats in the bay for decades in a kind of Bohemian community, Breemer, whose firm is representing Knight, told The Epoch Times in an interview. The authorities offered Knight a buyout for the boat, but he refused it, the lawyer said. In October 2022, they served him with a notice saying his boat would be seized in 10 days as so-called marine debris. The boat isnt marine debris under California law because its seaworthy and is fit for transportation, Knight argues. Knight fought the notice in federal court and won a temporary restraining order. The PLF notes that the 10-day notice didnt provide an opportunity for a hearing or guarantee compensation. No matter where the boat is anchored, or if the agency claims hes breaking the law, the RBRA cant move forward without giving Knight a chance to dispute the taking. Even worse, giving him a mere 10 days to move his boat and all his personal possessions is unfair, according to the PLF. Even rental tenants in California are allowed at least 60 days to move out of a leased unit. Last month, Judge William Orrick of the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California sided with Knight, extending (pdf) an existing injunction preventing the agency from seizing or destroying the boat. Knight had rejected what he considered to be a bad deal from the agency, which is offering boat dwellers $150 per foot for their boats but with the condition that a boat owner loses the buyback funds if he ends up homeless in Marin County. He turned down the buyout, which amounted to about $5,000, which is far less than what the boat is worth because his boat is the only place he can afford to live, according to the PLF. Were claiming that this taking of the boat is a taking of private property without just compensation and an unreasonable seizure in violation of the Fourth Amendment, Breemer said. There are a handful of constitutional property rights claims, all of which are pretty, pretty solid, according to the attorney. The RBRA didnt respond by press time to a request by The Epoch Times for comment. The discovery or information-gathering phase of the litigation is scheduled to begin soon with a trial penciled in for Oct. 16. Rights Group Fighting to Continue ArriveCAN Lawsuit Argues App Possibly Not Legally Required A smartphone set to the opening screen of the ArriveCan app is seen in a photo illustration made in Toronto on June 29, 2022. (The Canadian Press/Giordano Ciampini) A constitutional rights group is fighting to keep alive its legal challenge against the federal governments ArriveCAN mandate, after the government said the issue is moot because the policy requiring mandatory use of the app has since been lifted. In response, the group argued that the lifting of the policy has no bearing on the lawsuit since the mandate orders never made it a legal requirement for travellers to specifically use ArriveCAN as part of COVID-19 measures. It said the orders only required travellers to submit information via electronic means but did not indicate ArriveCAN as the specific means that must be used. The lawsuit was initiated in August 2022 when The Democracy Fund (TDF) filed a notice of application in the Federal Court against the health minister over the use of ArriveCAN. The group said the apps collection and use of private health information breached Canadians charter rights. It also said the hefty fines for non-complianceover $6,000have been financially devastating for many people. ArriveCan was designed for use by travellers seeking to enter Canada, requiring them to upload their contact, travel, and COVID-19 vaccination information as well as their quarantine plan. The month after TDF filed its application, the final order-in-council requiring mandatory use of ArriveCAN expired, on Sept. 30, 2022, following the federal governments announcement four days prior saying that the order would not be renewed. The Federal Court is currently hearing a motion that seeks to dismiss the TDF application as moot, which prompted the organization to file the written submission. A federal order-in-council is a decision made by cabinet that does not require parliamentary debate or enactment of legislation before being implemented. An issue is considered moot when there is no longer any live controversy or tangible and concrete dispute between the parties, rendering the issue academic. TDF responded by filing a written submission with the Federal Court on Jan. 30, citing the case Borowski v. Canada (Attorney General), which sets out the legal concept of mootness. In a press release on Feb. 2, TDF said that it believes the application is not moot and that it will regardless continue to push its ArriveCAN challenge forward. [Even] when a case is moot, a court still has discretion to hear it, TDF litigation director Alan Honner told The Epoch Times, adding that when the court decides whether or not to use that discretion, it has to consider several criteria, including whether the a court should spend limited judicial resources to resolve an appeal that is moot. A Better Chance So far, seven different legal proceedings challenging COVID-19 measures have been dismissed for mootness, Honner said. A federal judge who struck down four lawsuits in October 2022 gave as her reasoning that there is no important public interest or inconsistency in the law that would justify allocating significant judicial resources to hear these moot Applications. Honner said he believes TDF would have a better chance in challenging the government because there is still a live controversy involving his client. Cody Tilbury, one of the applicants, was among 190 or more people fined for not using the ArriveCAN app. Tilbury continues to face a fine of over $6,000 for not using ArriveCAN, according to the TDF written submission. The breach is ongoing. Its not cured by the repeal of the law, Honner said. Feds Wrongly Told Canadians ArriveCAN Required In the TDF written submission in January, Tilbury and another applicant, Corrine Janzentogether referred to as the Janzen Applicantsstated as their main argument that the federal government wrongly told Canadians that the use of ArriveCAN was legally required of persons crossing the Canadian border between November 2020 and September 2022. The Jantzen Applicants cited several COVID-19 orders-in-council mandating that travellers coming to Canada must provide travel and health information by an electronic means specified by the Minister of Health. But they said that the Minister of Health failed to specify [ArriveCAN] as the electronic means by which persons crossing the border were required to provide mandatory health and travel information to the Minister of Health. TDF has challenged the Health Minister to produce evidence that ArriveCAN was properly specified as required by various orders in council. If the Minister of Health did not properly specify ArriveCAN, then its use was not legally required by persons crossing the border, Honner said. This could have implications beyond exonerating those who have been ticketed TDF has made requests to Health Canada and the attorney general asking for information as to when and where the health minister specified ArriveCAN as the electronic means described in the orders, Honner said. But he said the organization has not received any response to date. The Epoch Times contacted Health Canada for comment on TDFs press release, but the agency didnt respond to the question by publication time. San Diego Deputy Arrested for Allegedly Bringing Drug Onto Jail Property A man in handcuffs in an undated file photo. (Philippe Huguen/AFP/Getty Images) SAN DIEGOA San Diego County Sheriffs Department deputy was arrested Feb. 3 for allegedly bringing an illegal drug onto jail property. Allen Paul Wereski, 48, was taken into custody after a substance believed to be cocaine was found in his vehicle, according to a statement from the department. Wereski has been suspended without pay pending resolution of the case. Wereski was booked into San Diego Central Jail and was being held on $25,000 bail pending arraignment, scheduled for Tuesday afternoon. Further details were not immediately available. The investigation is still ongoing, so limited information is available at this time, the department statement asserted. Sen. Manchin Criticizes Biden Administrations Pushing of ESG Rules to Phase Out Fossil Fuels Sen. Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.), chairman of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, presides over a hearing on battery technology, at the Dirksen Senate Office Building in Washington on Sept. 22, 2022. (Kevin Dietsch/Getty Images) Sen. Joe Manchin (D.-W.Va.) on Thursday delivered a sharp rebuke to a new Department of Labor (DOL) rule that he and GOP lawmakers believe encourages the investment of retirement money not according to traditional criteria of maximizing profits but instead in accordance with Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) standards. Speaking on a segment of Americas Newsroom alongside Sen. Mike Braun (R-Ind.), Manchin railed against the Biden administration rule that went into effect this week. Braun is the author of a disapproval resolution filed in response to the rule and enjoying the support of every GOP member of the Senate along with Manchin. Manchin argued that carbon emissions have already been significantly reduced through adherence to ESG criteria and that the DOLs new rule is both premature and dangerous to the nations economic health and self-sufficiency. Why dont they look at the geopolitical risk thats involved? Why dont you evaluate that too? Why dont you ask Europe whats happened to them? Ask Germany whats happened to their economy. Look at what Putin did to weaponize energy, Manchin said. The geopolitical risk should be evaluated the same as anything else because the fallout would be, if youre trying to put pressure and get rid of fossil [fuel] before we have anything to replace it, you are going to damage our economy and make our country much weaker. Manchin characterized himself as a fighter for energy security. Senator Mike Braun (R-Ind.) speaks during a Senate Special Committee of Aging hearing on The COVID-19 Pandemic and Seniors: A Look at Racial Health Disparities at the Capitol in Washington on July 21, 2020. (Samuel Corum/Getty Images) For his part, Braun cited a five-year study finding a 2.5 percent differential between the financial results obtained by investing on the basis of ESG standards as opposed to the more traditional criteria that ask what strategies would bring the greatest profits for investors. It affects 152 million Americans in their retirement 401Ks, about $12 trillion, Braun said. Do the math, 2.5 percent on $12 trillion, you should not be burdened with trying to push any political agenda where youre going to impact the hard earnings that you give to someone else in trust that youre going to make the right decision, he said. To me its shameful and its a heavy overreach that you get from the federal government. Braun said that his resolution seeking to revoke the new rule is the only means available to him and like-minded lawmakers in the face of such overreach, which he called an example of government gone wild. When the Markets Ready Manchin expanded on his argument that the country is not ready for the immediate elimination of fossil fuels and the widespread adoption of other sources of energy. Theyre trying to accelerate getting rid of fossil. The market will tell you when theres something to replace the fossil and the horsepower that comes from the coal, the gas, and the oil that we do cleaner than anywhere else in the world, Manchin said. The market will move when the markets ready to move and replace it. Were not ready yet, and for the administration to move in and accelerate that before were ready just puts the economy in jeopardy and also the return on investments that people need for their retirement. The Epoch Times has reached out to the DOL for comment. SANTO DOMINGO, Dominican RepublicJose Antonio Molina, conductor, pianist, composer, is the director of the National Symphony Orchestra of the Dominican Republic that makes its home the Eduardo Brito National Theater. But on Feb. 3, Mr. Molina appeared not for rehearsals but a refreshing evening at the theater. Seeing Shen Yun Performing Arts, Mr. Molina was blown away by the beauty and music. Truly magnificent, a beautiful impression. I think it is an unprecedented contribution to the culture of our country, something very fresh, very new, he said. In the aspect of my profession, it is very interesting how to combine the sounds of a traditional orchestra with ethnic, folk elements and Chinese instruments. So I am very happy and above all very grateful to bring a show of this level to the Dominican Republic. New York-based Shen Yun is the worlds top classical Chinese dance company, and boasts a rather unique orchestra. Each of Shen Yuns eight companies travel with a classical Western orchestra with the addition of Chinese instruments as part of its permanent ensemble. Instruments like the two-stringed erhu and ancient lute pipa are regularly featured, and the original compositions tend to showcase ancient Chinese melodies while utilizing classical orchestra arrangement techniques. Magnificent, a highly refined technique. I studied music in New York at all the main conservatories, at the Manhattan School of Music, the Juilliard, and I love New York. And [Shen Yuns orchestra is] definitely the best of the best, that is, how to combine a traditional classical technique of top dancers with the best from the Chinese traditions, he said. On top of dances that take audiences through the dynasties of 5,000 years and ancient myths and legends, Shen Yun showcases several ethnic and folk dances from Chinas 50-some minority groups as well, with authentic music to match. [It is] simply new. I am used to doing the traditional symphonic repertoire of the great orchestras from Bach to Bartok and seeing how to merge these things, seeing traditional instruments, string instruments, traditional woodwinds, of course, the harp, etc. And when a folk color comes, its very refreshing news, its something new in the symphonic world. So I really congratulate you and thank you for coming to our country with a show of this level, Mr. Molina said. I think that I have enjoyed the whole night, everything has had a very beautiful color, I am impressed above all by the highly refined technique, there are more than the production effects, simply wonderful, I truly congratulate you, Mr. Molina said, wanting to pass on his gratitude to the artists. Traditional Chinese culture is deeply spiritual, once said to be divinely inspired. Shen Yun, whose name translates into the beauty of divine beings dancing, takes as its mission to revive Chinas 5,000 years of civilization. Mr. Molina felt the culture, the reverence for the divine, and the universal values of this divinely inspired civilization Shen Yun wanted to present. I have felt it basically from the first note the orchestra sang to the last step a dancer took, he said. It has deeply penetrated the public. I think that they reflect above all the idiosyncrasies of that part of the world, of that spiritual part. Jose Antonio Molina I think that they reflect above all the idiosyncrasies of that part of the world, of that spiritual part, he said. We are passionate about it, we dont have the opportunity; I did and have done concerts and have rehearsed traditional concerts in Chinese territory in the Forbidden City, with the Peking Opera Orchestra. I did the event of the three tenors Pavarotti, Placido, and Carreras and I have always had contact, students, my classmates in New York, in the conservatories, so I have always been passionate about that culture and tonight has touched me in a very special way. The caliber and rarity of Shen Yun was something Mr. Molina recommended one not miss. I dont think that everyday one has the pleasure, the delight of seeing a show of this magnitude. So fresh, so different from everything that goes through the great halls of the world, he said. It is definitely important news, where any stop that this company hasis going to be news, because it really is very original, he said. Reporting by NTD. The Epoch Times is a proud sponsor of Shen Yun Performing Arts. We have covered audience reactions since Shen Yuns inception in 2006. Ethne, Julian, and Bengie Munden at the Shen Yun Performing Arts performance at Place des Arts in Montreal on Feb. 3, 2023. (Dongyu Teng/The Epoch Times) MONTREAL, CanadaWhen we know of something wonderful, its natural that we want to share it with our family. Shen Yun Performing Arts is a performance that audience members often say they want to see again with their children, grandchildren, parents, and loved ones. Ive waited for a number of years to see this, and see the original Chinese. Im blown away, said Ethne Munden, a Chinese medicine practitioner who attended Shen Yun with her two daughters, Bengie, who is also a Chinese medicine practitioner, and Julian Munden. Its something you feel you want to share with your whole entire family and all your loved ones and you want to spread, said Julian. New York-based Shen Yun is dedicated to spreading to the world the beauty of China before communism. Bengie said she chatted with audience members sitting around her and the family next to hers said they had experienced Shen Yun before and had to come back again. I sat next to a couple and they had their little girl there. Her name was Sofia. And when I looked at this little girl, who was probably 4 or 5, because kids dont lie, and her face was justOh my! This is magic, and it was beautiful, recalled Bengie. Shen Yun uses classical Chinese dance and music to raise awareness of the crimes against humanity in present-day China. Although the subject is serious, Shen Yun always leaves the audience with a feeling of hope. Its heartbreaking, but its so beautiful, said Bengie. One of the stories portrays followers of Falun Dafa, a peaceful meditation practice, being persecuted for their faith. I wish the whole world could embrace the simplicity, without all the trauma that has happened, I dont even know how to speak, said Ethne. Shen Yun draws inspiration from Chinas vast history. Many of its dances are reminders of traditional values and moral standards. I agree 100 percent. I think our world is in conflict right now, and I think we need to not pay attention to the future information but to learn from who came before us because they have all the answers, said Julian. Shen Yuns artists are trained in classical Chinese dance, which has three main componentsbearing, form, and technique. Mastering these components allows the dancers to convey and portray any emotion and character. Its an energy. Its a spiritual thing. There are many people with talent, this is something a little bit above and beyond that, said Bengie. Its the most amazing show Ive ever seen. Its magical. Its the most ethereal thing that Ive seen, said Ethne. The footwork used in classical Chinese dance is called yuan chang. It gives the impression of dancers floating across the stage. They float, Its cosmic. I dont know how to explain it but it touched us. We cried through the whole show, said Bengie. Reporting by Dongyu Teng and Maria Han. The Epoch Times is a proud sponsor of Shen Yun Performing Arts. We have covered audience reactions since Shen Yuns inception in 2006. Tennessee Aims to Join Growing Number of States Implementing Digital Drivers Licenses A person scans a QR code on an Apple Watch to temporarily send their digital driver's license to another mobile phone at a Harmons Grocery store in Salt Lake City, Utah, on Aug. 4, 2021. (George Frey/Getty Images) Tennessee is aiming to join the growing number of states across the United States that issue digital drivers licenses (DDLs) to their residents. The bill, SB 572 (pdf), is currently making its way through the Tennessee Senate. Introduced by Democratic state Sen. Heidi Campbell, the legislation directs the Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) to study state laws (and laws in other states) and the technology required to implement DDLs as an optional format. TDOT has until Jan. 1, 2024, to report its findings to both the states Senate and House of Representatives. The Digital Drivers License Trend According to the Secure Technology Alliance, DDLs are gaining traction in at least 30 U.S. states. In 2018, Louisiana was the first state to fully launch a DDL in the United States with its LA Wallet, which was made available to the public on the Apple App store, according to a statement released by Democratic Louisiana Gov. Bel Edwards. Soon after, in November 2019, Democratic Colorado Gov. Jared Polis announced Colorados DDL launch in a state-sponsored MyColorado app, a digital wallet containing Colorados Digital ID (a drivers license) along with other state-recognized documents including vaccination records and important documents such as insurance cards and vehicle registrations. In 2021, Arizona, Delaware, Mississippi, and Oklahoma began creating their own versions of DDL with Mobile ID, an app created by French security company Idemia, upgradedpoints.com reported. In 2022, Maryland authorized a DDL that can be used to get through security checkpoints at two Washington regions airports, The Washington Post reported. In September 2021, Apple announced that it had started working with several states, including Arizona, Georgia, Connecticut, Iowa, Kentucky, Maryland, Oklahoma, and Utah to seamlessly and securely allow their residents to add their drivers licenses or state IDs to Apple Wallet on their iPhones and Apple Watches. The Secure Technology Alliance reported in an event summary to its members in December 2021 that the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) fully supports the DDL movement for travel authentication and is preparing to begin its phased rollout, with mDL [Mobile Drivers License] Apple Wallet integration being its first step. To date, only three states have actually incorporated their DDLs into Apple WalletArizona, Colorado, and Marylandaccording to Apple. Other DDL Legislation in the Works California has been developing a digital ID for some time, according to MacRumors, and recently the California Department of Motor Vehicles said it will introduce a pilot program in late spring this year with up to 150,000 participants to test them, local Fox affiliate Fox 40 reported. And in Washington state, Democratic state Sen. Mark Mullet introduced Senate Bill 5105 (pdf) in early January to implement a plan to issue DDLs through a mobile application. In a statement about the legislation, Mullet said: Drivers can already keep their vehicle registration and proof of insurance on their phone . Having the option of our drivers licenses and our identification on our phones is the logical next step. Federal Support for DDLs, Starting With REAL-ID Modernization Act The REAL-ID Modernization Act of 2021 was a bipartisan-supported measure that was inserted into the 5,573-page spending bill of December 2020 and sailed through both the House and Senate before President Donald Trump signed it into law on Dec. 27, 2020, according to StateScoop. The act specifies that non-physical versions of drivers licenses and other state-issued identifications will be considered valid when REAL-ID enforcement begins, which has been extended to May 7, 2025, according to a recent TSA statement. StateScoop explained that the legislation closed a legal question in states that have already launched DDLs, where they had previously lingered in a gray area as they awaited TSA approval. In early 2022, TSA began a pilot program to accept DDLs in Apple Wallet from three participating statesArizona, Colorado, and Marylandat the TSA PreCheck checkpoints at 12 airports across the United States, according to the FAQ pages on the agencys website. TSA announced its pilot program launch in a March 2022 statement, calling the move a significant milestone in TSAs efforts to improve airport security screening. The agency explained that its interest in this technology is driven by potential security and privacy enhancements provided by the mobile drivers licenses compared to physical cards. In addition, the agency continued, touchless identity verification will have health and safety benefits in response to the pandemic. From NTD News Texas Border Sheriff Wants Smugglers to Get 5 Years per Illegal Immigrant Kinney County sheriffs deputies and a Galveston deputy constable arrest two women for smuggling illegal immigrants, in Brackettville, Texas, on July 22, 2022. (Charlotte Cuthbertson/The Epoch Times) KINNEY COUNTY, TexasThe number of human smugglers arrested by deputies in Kinney County, Texas, has more than quadrupled in the past two years, and the sheriff wants the penalties to increase. Kinney County Sheriff Brad Coe said his deputies arrested 741 smugglers transporting illegal immigrants from the border in 2022, up from 169 in 2020. In addition, deputies were involved in 139 vehicle pursuits, up from 61 in 2020; high-speed pursuits also have doubled, leading to multiple deaths. Coe said his deputies are arresting people who are flying in from Ohio or Washington, renting a car at the airport, and then picking up illegal immigrants at the U.S.Mexico border to transport them to San Antonio. Smugglers from Oklahoma, Louisiana, and Florida also are prevalent in the area, he said. The sheriff said hes also seeing repeat offendersthose who have been charged with human smuggling but for whom no jail space is available (usually females and juveniles), so the charges are filed at large, leaving the suspect to continue to smuggle. Coe plans to attend Sheriffs Day in Texass capital on Feb. 22 to get lawmakers on board with stiffer smuggling penalties. He says he wants smugglers to get a mandatory minimum jail sentence of five years per illegal immigrant being smuggled in the vehicle. So if youve got one, youre looking at five years; if youve got 10, youre looking at 50 [years], Coe told The Epoch Times. Texas Gov. Greg Abbott also is calling for a five-year minimum sentence. I will be seeking a mandatory minimum of at least five years in prison for anyone caught committing this crime, Abbott wrote on Twitter on Dec. 11, 2022. Im getting damn tired of Texas residents smuggling people into our country illegally. Abbotts tweet was in response to a statement from the Starr County District Attorneys Office, in which District Attorney Gocha Allen Ramirez said his crime victims coordinator had been arrested for human smuggling while using an office vehicle. Bernice Garza was arrested along with alleged coconspirators Magali Rosa and Juan Antonio Charles. The trio is accused of attempting to smuggle illegal immigrants to Houston. Currently, smuggling of humans is a third-degree felony offense, punishable by up to two years in prison and a fine of up to $2,000 per person being smuggled. The Texas legislature amended the states human smuggling law during its last legislative session, and the new law took effect on Sept. 1, 2021, which allowed for the prosecution of a suspected smuggler without having to prove pecuniary gain. The new law raises the degree of a felony if a pecuniary gain is proven, if a smuggled person is a minor, or if the smuggler has a firearm. Pecuniary gain is the money or benefit a driver is paid to smuggle illegal aliens from one place to another. To prove it requires a confession on most occasions, and often, a defendant will simply say they were giving the passengers a lift for free. In reality, cartels recruit smugglers through social media websites and messaging apps promising thousands of dollars for transporting illegal aliens. The drivers tend to be a mix of U.S. citizens and illegal aliens. Coe wants lawmakers to go further than just a five-year mandatory minimum sentence. If anybody in that smuggling load is MS-13, or some type of known street gang member, it ups the penalty. If theyre convicted felons, it ups the penalty. Once youre convicted, I think you ought to lose your right to your drivers license, public housing, food stamps, free medical, or whatever benefits you have, he said. Dangle that over their heads. If theyre convicted, they lose it all. Coe also wants lawmakers to consider other penalties such as increased insurance rates and involvement of child protective services for those who have children with them. We need to look at other things other than just immigration. Thats a few things I do have on the list when and if I get to go to Austin, he said. Im trying to find out: Who do I need to go to? Who do I need to sit in their office and wait till they come out and push some of this stuff forward? But the question is, do they really care? Aside from the human smuggling in vehicles, thousands of illegal immigrants try to evade Border Patrol by walking on the ranches around the inland border highway checkpoints. During the last nine months of 2022, at least 21,000 suspected illegal aliens were viewed on cameras set up by Kinney County, moving on foot either inside the county or on trails and passages that lead into the county. To our knowledge, none have been apprehended, and their whereabouts today are unknown, the sheriffs office said. The population of Kinney County is about 3,100. From talking to local ranchers and business owners, Coe says hes learned that the number of hunters coming to the area this season has decreased. Hunting is a major portion of Kinney Countys economy. He said part of it is the economy, but the main issue is illegal immigration. They just didnt trust coming out here with everything thats going on. Theyd show up, they go to their cabin, its been ransacked, stuff is missing. They patch it all together, come back three weeks later, same thing, he said. Same thing with ranchers, with illegal immigrants cutting fences and smugglers driving through them. If we cant protect the ranchers, if we cant protect the leaseholders, we have nothing. The Long-Term Negative Effects of ESG Will Be Catastrophic Commentary Environmental, social, and governance (ESG) has been a hotly debated topic over the last few years. The seemingly unquestioned march towards corporate utopia has met with resistance among those who oppose the idea that government oligarchs should dictate the affairs of private business firms. The long-term effects of the ESG movement are largely ignored by the mainstream. ESG is largely justified on the basis that corporations and financial institutions should be socially responsible. They should work obsessively to address the perceived menaces of climate change, racism, sexism, and a host of subjects. Our benevolent political and economic elite define what is virtuous and what is not for a grateful public. Corporations are compelled to enact policies that will reduce carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, eliminate perceived negative economic outcomes against aggrieved groups, and be sustainable, as well as other virtuous goals. It matters little to the select group of human beings, as John Kerry called them, who are tasked with saving the planet that many of their solutions to these existential challenges are far more harmful than their worst-case scenarios. The Friedman Doctrine, named after the eminent Chicago School economist, states that the sole responsibility of businesses is to maximize long-term shareholder value. I was exposed to this view in 1980 when I attended the University of Torontos Master of Business Administration program. I was surprised by the moral certainty and simplicity implied by the statement. I remember our professor being challenged by my class on two fronts. One was the issue of charitable donations. That argument was quickly dispatched when it was pointed out that corporate CEOs had no moral right to give away shareholders money. It was not theirs to give. If the benevolent CEO wanted to make charitable donations out of his own pocket he was free to do so. Shareholders had this same ability. The other argument we put forward appeared a more difficult one for our professor to argue against, or so I believed. What about social responsibility? Surely, companies should not pollute, produce dangerous products, or underpay their employees. Without going into minute details, he argued that corporations were subject to the discipline of the marketplace, laws, and regulations (albeit at that time over-regulation). Underpay your workers? They would be hired by others willing to pay them more and your business would suffer due to poor employee productivity. Dump toxins into lakes and rivers? There were laws against that and the bad publicity would harm profitability. It would be counterproductive for a company seeking long-term shareholder value to produce hazardous products. What is clear is that the Friedman Doctrine, also called shareholder theory, maximizes not only long-term shareholder value, but economic utility as a whole. If the senior management of firms did not maximize shareholder value they would be in breach of their duties. I contend that if the Friedman Doctrine maximizes economic utility, then ESG syllogistically yields suboptimal outcomes. In fact, the negative effects of ESG will be catastrophic. Those who doubt that contention have never noticed the correlation between a nations average income per person and life expectancy. ESG will literally kill people, if it is not already doing so. ESG is socialism by stealth insofar as it enables central government economic planning without having to publicly acknowledge such and deal with the unpleasant repercussions of property confiscation. In the past, democracies could merely nationalize companies by forcing shareholders to sell their shares to the government. This was done frequently with products and services which politicians deemed essential, like utilities. In some cases, such as post offices, governments would simply provide a service that the public sector could not compete with due to heavy government subsidies or legislation to prevent private competition. Totalitarian regimes like the Soviet Union would simply steal the property of owners for the public good and then attempt to manage those entities. Absent the need to compete, satisfy the consumer, appoint managers based on merit or earn a profit, these entities performed poorly. Any pushback was met with a trip to Siberia or a bullet to the head. Some socialistically inclined totalitarian regimes realized that it was far more efficient to allow the private management system to remain and be coerced, violently if necessary, to do the will of the government. Profits could easily be confiscated covertly by a system of corruption, or merely taxed away. In a sense, ESG is a novel and brilliant way to place private corporations under the yoke of government. No longer would governments have to deal with having to pay shareholders a fair price. They would not have to use the threat of physical violence to coerce managers to do their bidding. The supporters of ESG merely had to bully companies into adopting policies that destroyed shareholder value by psychologically manipulating employees, shareholders, and the public into believing that these activities were virtuous. Of course, all too many corporate leaders learned to love their enslavement. Why wouldnt they? Instead of competing in a brutal capitalistic world, they had their markets protected by government dictate creating defacto monopolies and oligopolies. Senior managers would be heavily compensated for playing along, creating a billionaire and multi-millionaire parasite class. Of course, this brave new world of stakeholder capitalism comes at a terrible cost. Economic efficiency declines precipitously. Also, this form of socialism is a huge transfer of wealth to senior managers and corrupt politicians at the expense of shareholders. Whereas as the old Soviet Union engaged in murderous robbery, and the methodology of fascist regimes were more akin to blackmail, stakeholder capitalism resembles a confidence game. In a confidence game, suckers willfully hand over their money in the hopes that the con man will give them a positive return. ESG is an economic and moral affront to the very concept of private ownership. Shareholders are robbed. Their pension plans end up with less value than they otherwise would have. The managers they entrusted with their wealth, whether they are company executives or portfolio managers of their retirement funds, are betraying them. Yet those people will grow fabulously wealthy, not by excellence but by government edict. Government officials decide the winners and losers in a charade that resembles capitalism the way professional wrestling resembles authentic combat sports. It is difficult to assess the numeric affect ESG will have on GDP over the next generation. It is early days and we hope and expect that this terrible idea will join the ranks of other missteps like Lysenkoism and apartheid. We will be significantly poorer in a generation than we would be without ESG. Therefore, life expectancy will be significantly lower than if we avoided ESG, especially for the poor in both developed and less developed nations. ESG will literally kill millions. To a narcissistic and Machiavellian elite, however, this would be a small price to pay for personal wealth, diversity, and the average global temperature being half a degree less than predicted by climate change models. Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times. Trump Vows Very Big Crackdown on Many Thousands of Chinese Spies In America Former President Donald Trump leaves the stage after speaking during an event at his Mar-a-Lago home in Palm Beach, Fla., on Nov. 15, 2022. (Joe Raedle/Getty Images) Former President Donald Trump said Friday that the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) has many thousands of spies operating in the United States and vowed a tough crackdown on them if elected president in 2024. Trump made the remarks in a video statement on Friday, which came as the country was gripped by news of a Chinese spy balloon sailing over U.S. airspace, including a region of Montana that holds intercontinental ballistic missile launch sites. Its rarely even mentioned that China has many thousands of spies working in the United States, in business, finance, academia, technology, media, and likely, even government, very sadly, Trump said. Several recent cases show that CCP espionage activity in the United States is an ongoing problem thats in the crosshairs of law enforcement. The Justice Department (DOJ) recently announced charges against 13 people, including suspected Chinese intelligence officers, in three separate cases of alleged plots to illegally advance Chinese interests in America. While in office, Trump implemented the China Initiative, which led to dozens of prosecutions of suspected spies. The DOJ said at the time (pdf) it aimed at disrupting the Chinese regimes rob, replicate, and replace strategy through blatant and systematic theft of American intellectual property. On the two-year anniversary of the programs launch, FBI Director Christopher Wray said his bureau was opening a new China-related counterintelligence case nearly every 10 hours. The China Initiative was disbanded under President Joe Bidens administration, which the DOJ said after a review was not the right approach, and Assistant Attorney General Matthew Olsen said the program fueled a narrative of intolerance and bias. Spy Catching To Be Expanded In Very Big Way In his video address, Trump touted his tough-on-spies approach and promised to tackle Chinese espionage within the United States with great force if he wins in 2024. As President I took the most dramatic action of any administration to curtail Chinas ability to conduct espionage in the United States, Trump said. And when Im back in the White House, those efforts will be expanded in a very, very, big way. Instead of hunting down Republicans, a reformed FBI and Justice Department will be hunting down Chinese spies. We will create new partnerships with businesses and universities to give them the tools to protect themselves from insider threats, Trump continued. He also said his administration would impose whatever visa sanctions and travel restrictions are necessary to shut off Chinese access to American secrets in compliance with our demands, and in compliance with our laws. Trump also addressed the matter of secret CCP police stations operating on U.S. soil. The Epoch Times has reported the existence of more than 100 police outposts spread across 53 countries. The FBI even recently admitted that China operates a secret police force on American soil. How do you like that one? Imposing the iron fist of the Communist Party, Trump said. The facilities have been used by the CCP to carry out an illicit campaign of transnational repression, according to Safeguard Defenders, a nonprofit organization that published a Dec. 5 update to its findings from a previous investigation released in October. Think of this, the Communist Party rule on Chinese nationals in the United States. Just think about that. We will shut that down and we will shut it down cold. Secret CCP Police Stations The Safeguard Defenders report discovered 48 new overseas police stations with ties to Chinas communist regime, including two previously unknown facilities in Los Angeles and New York City. The report found that four separate police departments in mainland China helped to create the facilities, which the regime began setting up in 2016. The ones in New York and Los Angeles were established in 2018, and are overseen by the Wenzhou Public Security Bureau, located in eastern Chinas Zhejiang Province. The facilities were allegedly created to assist Chinese immigrants in foreign nations with tasks that would normally be handled by a consulate, such as renewing drivers licenses and visas. Increasingly, however, the stations have been linked to the CCPs United Front Work Department (UFWD), an agency that works to advance the regimes interests abroad by spreading propaganda, conducting foreign influence operations, suppressing dissident movements, gathering intelligence, and facilitating the transfer of technology to communist China. The FBI called the stations a violation of U.S. sovereignty. I have to be careful about discussing our specific investigative work, but to me, it is outrageous to think that the Chinese police would attempt to set up shopyou know, in New York lets saywithout proper coordination, Wray said. It violates sovereignty and circumvents standard judicial and law enforcement cooperation processes. Trumps pledge to get tough on CCP espionage in the United States comes as public attention is focused on the spy balloon, with someincluding the former presidentcalling for it be shot down. Andrew Thornebrooke contributed to this report. Regional heads of state have called for an immediate cease-fire by all parties in eastern Congo, where tensions have grown amid talk of war as DR Congo and neighboring Rwanda trade allegations of backing armed rebels. The communique issued Saturday at the end of an East African Community summit (EAC) also directed troop-contributing countries to immediately deploy more troops to a regional force created and sent to eastern Congo last year. It also directed defense chiefs to meet within one week and called for more dialogue and de-escalation of tensions. The talks were hosted in Burundi by the seven-nation EAC, which is leading mediation efforts to end the fighting in the vast central African nation. The heads of state of both DR Congo and Rwanda attended in a "cordial and friendly atmosphere,'' the communique said. Some observers fear the toll and regional effects if the two countries slide again into all-out conflict as they did in the late 1990s and early 2000s. Alarm soared last month after Rwanda fired on a Congolese military aircraft it alleged violated its airspace. Congo called it "a deliberate act of aggression that equals an act of war'' with the goal of sabotaging regional peace efforts. Kinshasa for months has accused Rwanda of supporting the M23 armed group _ whose origins lie in the region's ethnic fighting _ and powerful voices in the West have openly agreed. Rwanda denies backing the M23 rebels, which is one of dozens operating in mineral-rich eastern Congo, and accuses Congo of backing another rebel group that reportedly includes ethnic Hutus who participated in the 1994 Rwanda genocide that killed more than 800,000 ethnic Tutsis and moderate Hutus. United Nations experts have said they have "substantial evidence'' of Rwandan government forces crossing into Congo to reinforce M23 rebels or to conduct operations against the other rebel group. The United States, France and Germany have urged Rwanda to stop supporting the rebels. In a statement ahead of the summit, the Congolese presidency had called for the EAC force to be made more "offensive" to tackle the rebels. Saturday's regional summit occurred days after Pope Francis visited Congo's capital, Kinshasa, to highlight the toll that decades of conflict have taken on the country, particularly eastern Congo, a volatile region rich in minerals critical to much of the world's technology. A planned visit by the pope to Goma in eastern Congo was called off because of the insecurity. At a Nov. 23 summit in Angola, which included Congo's president and Rwanda's foreign minister, regional leaders called for a cease-fire in eastern Congo to be followed by a withdrawal of rebels from major towns under M23 control. The group said it would leave some of the occupied territories before Jan. 15, but some areas remain under its control and fighting has intensified in some areas. Saturday's summit also signalled a possible rapprochement between Burundi and Rwanda, with their two leaders greeting each other warmly in Bujumbura. The tiny countries have long had tempestuous relations, each accusing the other of interfering in their internal affairs. In 2020, Kagame urged the then newly elected Ndayishimiye to reset diplomatic ties but his overture was rejected as "hypocritical". Burundi has accused Rwanda of harbouring those behind a failed 2015 coup that plunged the country into violent chaos. Search Keywords: Short link: UK Former Tory Chair Calls for Raab to Be Suspended Over Bullying Claims Former Conservative Party chairman Sir Jake Berry on Saturday called for Deputy Prime Minister Dominic Raab to be suspended while he is investigated over bullying claims. Raab is under investigation over a number of allegations that he bullied civil servants in his various ministerial jobs, though the deputy prime minister, who is also the justice secretary, has maintained that he has behaved professionally throughout. In an interview with BBC Radio 4s The Week in Westminster programme, Berry said people facing bullying allegations would be suspended in the private sector, and said Parliament and the government should change rules to create a suspension mechanism. The way these sort of complaints would be dealt with in the private sector is you would be suspended while they were investigated, he said, adding that it would be very bizarre if someone doesnt get suspended pending that investigation. We have a system in Parliament that youre either in a job or youre not in a job, he said. I think that would be a big help to the prime minister if he had that additional tool in his box. It requires a bit of updating of the ministerial code and I think the public would welcome it, he added. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has faced renewed pressure in recent days to suspend Raab after he sacked Conservative Chairman Nadhim Zahawi, who was found breaking ministerial code by not declaring an investigation into his tax affairs. The FDA union, which represents senior civil servants, has already called for Raabs suspension. Labour has accused Sunak of being too weak to move against his deputy who was one of his strongest supporters in the battle for the Tory leadership after the resignation of Boris Johnson. But Conservative former minister Jacob Rees-Mogg defended Sunaks decision to keep Raab in his job during the investigation, saying We mustnt be too snowflakey about it. Former Foreign Office permanent secretary Lord Simon McDonald previously said Sunak was a tough boss and that the allegations are plausible. Rees-Mogg said people need to be able to say this job has not been done well enough and needs to be done better, adding that its difficult to judge whether one has crossed the line. Investigation The Guardian on Nov. 11, 2022, cited a number of unnamed sources saying Raab has been very rude and aggressive towards civil servants and that he had created a culture of fear in the Ministry of Justice. On Nov. 15, two formal complaints were made against Raab, who requested a probe into his own behaviour the next morning. Raab said at the time that he would cooperate fully with the investigation and respect whatever outcome Sunak decides. He also said he had never tolerated bullying during his tenures in eight ministerial jobs in four government departments. Sunak appointed senior lawyer Adam Tolley KC to investigate the two complaints on Nov. 23, but six more former allegations have been added since. According to The Guardian, all three permanent secretaries who worked with Raab, including former Foreign Office permanent secretary Lord Simon McDonald, Ministry of Justice permanent secretary Antonia Romeo, and former Brexit department permanent Philip Rycroft, gave evidence to Tolley as a witness. The newspaper also reported that at least 24 civil servants, and perhaps more than 30, are involved in formal complaints. The Epoch Times could not independently verify the number. Following the reports last week, Downing Street said the number of formal allegations against Raab remained at eight but could not rule out that each complaint includes multiple accusers. Sunak Under Pressure The prime ministers position has also become precarious as he came under pressure to explain whether he knew of concerns over Raab before putting him back into the government. Raab last served as the deputy prime minister and justice secretary in Boris Johnsons government until September last year. Following Liz Trusss brief term as the prime minister, Sunak brought Raab back to the Cabinet to his old job in October. UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak leaves 10 Downing Street to attend Prime Ministers Questions in the House of Commons, in London, on Jan. 25, 2023. (Leon Neal/Getty Images) Downing Street has said Sunak was not aware of any formal complaints against Raab, but the prime ministers knowledge came under increased scrutiny after it was reported his cabinet chief knew about Raabs alleged behaviour. According to The Times of London, which cited an official closely involved in the complaint, said a formal complaint was made against Raab in March 2022. The report also said a number of officials had told Tolley that Cabinet Secretary Simon Case was told about the complaint. Downing Street did not deny the allegation that Case knew about the complaint but said Sunak didnt know about any formal complaint before appointing Raab. Sunak also stood by Case. Asked on Friday if Sunak is confident he is getting solid advice from Case, Sunaks spokesman said: Yes. The prime minister has full confidence in Simon Case. Sunak was the second cabinet minister after former Health Secretary Sajid Javid to resign from Johnsons government after the former prime minister admitted to keeping Chris Pincher in government despite sexual misconduct allegations against him after he previously denied knowledge. Their resignations started a ministerial exodus that brought an end to Johnsons premiership. As Sunak was entering Downing Street, the prime minister vowed to lead with integrity, professionalism, and accountability, in an apparent attempt to rebuild confidence after two prime ministers left No. 10 in disgrace. Following reports that Zahawi paid a penalty to settle a tax dispute, Sunak refused to sack him while the investigation was ongoing, but did so immediately after the six-day investigation found a serious breach of the Ministerial Code. PA Media contributed to this report. US Military Members Suing 3M Seek Dismissal of Subsidiarys Bankruptcy Current and former U.S. military members suing 3M over allegedly defective military earplugs have asked a U.S. judge to dismiss 3M subsidiary Aearo Technologies bankruptcy, accusing the company of using bankruptcy to shield itself from litigation, which has grown into the largest mass tort in U.S. history. The servicemembers group said late on Thursday that Aearos Chapter 11 bankruptcy should face the same fate as the bankruptcy of a Johnson & Johnson-created subsidiary, which was used to settle lawsuits alleging J&J baby powder and other talc products caused cancer. A federal appeals court dismissed the bankruptcy strategy this week. 3M Co faces more than 230,000 lawsuits accusing it of selling defective earplugs that caused hearing loss for U.S. military members. The company has sought to settle those lawsuits through Aearos bankruptcy. 3Ms plan faltered when U.S. Bankruptcy Judge Jeffrey Graham in Indianapolis ruled that Aearos bankruptcy did not stop earplug lawsuits from proceeding against parent company 3M, which is not bankrupt. 3M is appealing that ruling. Now the servicemembers suing want Graham to go a step further and end Aearos bankruptcy entirely. In a Thursday court filing, they cited a Monday ruling by the U.S. 3rd Circuit Court of Appeals in Philadelphia dismissing a bankruptcy case filed by J&J subsidiary LTL Management because neither J&J nor LTL were in financial distress. J&J denies the cancer claims and is challenging the 3rd Circuit ruling. LTL, like Aearo, entered bankruptcy with an agreement that its non-bankrupt parent would fund a settlement of the lawsuits in bankruptcy. Those funding agreements undercut plaintiffs arguments that 3M and J&J were hiding assets from potential creditors, but they also undercut the companies arguments that they could not afford to fight the lawsuits outside of bankruptcy court. The committee representing the servicemembers in bankruptcy court said in Thursdays filing that the LTL decision knocks the props out from under these cases and requires their dismissal. Like J&J, 3M is a multi-billion dollar corporate enterprise that is not remotely in financial distress, and therefore should not be able to use the bankruptcy against the servicemembers it injured, plaintiffs attorneys Bryan Aylstock and Chris Seeger said in a statement. 3M said on Friday it would oppose efforts to dismiss the bankruptcy. It has denied liability, saying its earplugs offered protection to soldiers while allowing them to hear on the battlefield. Dismissing Aearos bankruptcy would needlessly disrupt settlement negotiations and force 3M back to protracted litigation in the mass tort system, which after sixteen trials to-date has not provided clarity or certainty, 3M said. 3M has lost 10 of the 16 cases that have gone to trial so far, with about $265 million being awarded in total to 13 plaintiffs. The lawsuits have been consolidated in federal court in Florida. Aearo placed $1 billion in a trust to settle them and agreed to indemnify 3M for all liability related to the earplugs. By Dietrich Knauth US Says Significant Progress Made Toward Australias Acquisition of Nuclear Subs at Earliest Date U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin (R) welcomes Australian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense Richard Marles (L) to the Pentagon in Washington on Feb. 3, 2023. (Olivier Douliery/AFP via Getty Images) U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin says that significant progress has been made toward Australias acquisition of a fleet of nuclear-powered submarines at the earliest possible date under the AUKUS security pact. Austin met with Australian Defense Minister Richard Marles in Washington on Feb. 4 to discuss the trilateral AUKUS (which includes the UK) partnership, their mutual security efforts within the Indo-Pacific region, and other issues. Citing their previous meeting in December 2022, Austin said both sides had agreed to deepen defense ties and strengthen coordination on regional priorities, according to a U.S. Defense Department transcript. The two nations also seek to work closely with Japan to address regional challenges in the IndoPacific region. We also pledged to find new ways to work closely with Japan, as we pursue a common vision of a free and open Indo-Pacific, as a region where all countries can chart their own course and all states respect international rules and norms and where all disputes are resolved peacefully, Austin said. All of this is yet another reminder that our unbreakable alliance is capable of great things. It has, indeed, endured for generations, and it remains vital to regional peace and security. An excellent meeting with my good friend @SecDef in Washington today, Marles wrote on Twitter on Feb. 4. Plenty to discuss ahead of a big year of AustraliaUS cooperation including AUKUS. Royal Australian Navy submarine HMAS Rankin is seen during AUSINDEX 21, a biennial maritime exercise between the Royal Australian and the Indian navies in Darwin, Australia, on Sept. 5, 2021. (POIS Yuri Ramsey/Australian Defence Force via Getty Images) AUKUS Submarine Deal Marles reiterated that Australia, the United States, and the UK are building a three-way ecosystem through the AUKUS security pact that will benefit all three nations. The federal government intends to unveil its nuclear submarine plan next month. We are building a three-way ecosystem, and thats how people need to understand it, he told reporters, The Sydney Morning Herald reported. Marles said building the nuclear workforce is one of the real challenges that we face when it comes to the AUKUS submarines, for which the allies will have to put in a lot of work to get this right. He noted that Washingtons complex regulations and export control laws, such as the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), could delay for years the transfer of necessary technologies for the submarines. In recent months, there has been speculation that U.S. shipyards will be unable to supply Australia with additional submarines because of a lack of extra capacity. The nuclear submarine industry requires not only the right facilities but a highly trained workforce numbering in the tens of thousands. The U.S. and UK governments have pledged to assist Australia with training and developing its industry. However, Marles has downplayed any concerns about delays. Were confident that what we will be announcing in the coming weeks is a pathway that will be able to be delivered by all partners on time, and obviously, we are talking about a program that is not measured in weeks or months but is actually going to take place over years and decades, he told ABC Radios AM on Feb. 1. Anne-Marie Trevelyan, the UK minister of state for the Indo-Pacific, said Australias submarines would likely be used to patrol the Indo-Pacific and secure trade routes. Free and fair trade work if the waterways are clear and safe, she said. A lot of the Royal Navys job for several hundred years was chasing pirates to allow those ships that want to move goods around to do so. Chinas Opposition to AUKUS The Chinese Communist Party has been vocal in its opposition to AUKUS, with CCP foreign affairs spokesperson Mao Ning declaring that the alliance is fueling military confrontation in the Asia-Pacific and is driven by Cold War thinking. According to China watchers, the regime in Beijing is genuinely distressed about AUKUS; analysts say thats due to Chinas concern about a Western-led coalition that, along with Japan, could contain China and bring the West into geostrategic dominance. With Japan at one vertex and India at the other, Australias nuclear submarines will allow the Allies to close a strategic triangle at the second island chains southernmost point, shortening the distance for reconnaissance, monitoring, and rapid response against China, as well as achieving long-range hypersonic precision strike capabilities, Tuvia Gering wrote in an article for The China Project. Daniel Y. Teng, Victoria Kelly-Clark, and AAP contributed to this report. US Seeks to Modernize Philippines Military, Resume Joint Maritime Patrols U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin (R) walks past military guards during arrival honors at the Department of National Defense in Camp Aguinaldo military camp in Quezon City, Manila, Philippines, on Feb. 2, 2023. (Rolex Delapena-Pool/Getty Images) The United States will help to modernize Philippine military capabilities and revive joint patrols in the South China Sea, which had been stalled during the previous Duterte administration, the U.S. defense chief said on Thursday. The move was announced following a meeting between U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., and Secretary of National Defense Carlito Galvez in Manila on the same day. Austin described the Philippines as a key ally with which the United States would seek to strengthen ties in every way possible, according to a statement issued by the U.S. Defense Department. We conduct more than 500 defense engagements together every year, he told a joint press briefing. And as President [Joe] Biden has made clear, Americas commitment to the defense of the Philippines is ironclad. Austin and Galvez also reaffirmed the mutual defense treaty commitments, with the U.S. defense chief saying it applies to armed attacks on either countrys defense assets in the West Philippine Seathe name that Manila uses for the South China Sea. We discussed concrete actions to address destabilizing activities and the waters surrounding the Philippines, including the West Philippine Sea, and we remain committed to strengthening our mutual capacities to resist armed attack, Austin said. He said the United States would help modernize the Philippine military and boost interoperability between their forces. Austin said these efforts are especially important as the Peoples Republic of China continues to advance its illegitimate claims in the West Philippine Sea. Both sides agreed to restart joint maritime patrols in the disputed sea, reviving the activities that former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte suspended in April 2016 to strengthen ties with Beijing. US Secretary of Defense Lloyd James Austin III, right, with Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr during a courtesy call at the Malacanang Palace in Manila on Feb. 2, 2023. (Jamilah Sta Rosa-Pool/Getty Images) Marcos, who took office in June 2022, has been keen to bolster the U.S.-Philippines alliance. During his meeting with Austin, Marcos expressed his intention to maintain ties with Washington, citing the United States role as a Pacific power. More specifically here, the Asia-Pacific region has become a terribly complicated situation, he remarked. It is something we can only navigate with the help of our partners and our allies. The United States also secured four new military bases in the Philippines under the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA), which was signed in 2014. It remains unclear where the new EDCA sites would be. The new four locations join five existing EDCA sites, for which the United States has allocated more than $82 million in infrastructure investments. At these five Philippine military camps, U.S. forces could rotate indefinitely. Philippine Marines amphibious assault vehicles maneuver next to a Philippine BRP Tarlac navy landing platform dock ship during a joint amphibious landing exercise with U.S. Marines at a beach facing the South China Sea in San Antonio town, Zambales province on Oct. 7, 2022. (Ted Aljibe/AFP via Getty Images) Geopolitical Rivalry The Chinese Embassy in Manila condemned Austins meeting with the Philippine government and accused him of trying to advance the anti-China political agenda of the United States by smearing China on the South China Sea issue. It is hoped that the Philippine side stays vigilant and resists from being taken advantage of and dragged into trouble waters, the Chinese embassy said in a statement. Beijing claims much of the South China Sea as its own under its so-called nine-dash line. The Hague Tribunal ruled in favor of the Philippines in 2016. Still, it has had little to no impact on Beijings behavior, with it repeatedly intruding into Manilas territorial zones. The Philippines sought to increase its military presence in the South China Sea to deter the Chinese from encroaching on its territories. The Southeast Asian nation is also concerned about Beijings aggression against Taiwan, given its proximity to the self-ruled island. Marcos said on Jan. 16 that the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) is facing strong pressure from major powers to choose sides amid geopolitical rivalry in the Indo-Pacific region. The forces of us going back to that Cold War type of scenario, where you have to choose one side or the other, are strong, Marcos told reporters in Switzerland, according to the state-run Philippine News Agency. I think we are determined as a group in ASEAN and in the Indo-Pacific, those around the Indo-Pacific, despite all of this conflict, we are determined to stay away from that. Mimi Nguyen Ly contributed to this report. US Vows to Defend South Korea With Nuclear Capability Amid North Korean Threats U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken (R) shakes hands with the South Korean Foreign Minister Park Jin (L) at the conclusion of an event at the State Department on Feb. 3, 2023 in Washington. Blinken canceled a planned diplomatic trip to China as a result of an incident involving a Chinese surveillance ballon identified in U.S. airspace. (Win McNamee/Getty Images) The United States remains committed to using the full range of its military capabilities, including nuclear weapons, to defend South Korea from North Korean aggression, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said on Feb. 3. Speaking alongside South Korean Foreign Minister Park Jin at a press conference, Blinken reaffirmed the U.S. commitment to improving its allied defense against common threats and the complete denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula. He referred to the U.S.South Korea alliance as the linchpin of peace in the region and said that it seeks to boost trilateral security cooperation with Japan to deter North Koreas missile provocations. We are committed to defending the Republic of Korea using the full range of our capabilitiesnuclear, conventional, missile defense capabilities, Blinken told reporters in Washington. So there should be no doubt in anyones mind, starting with Pyongyang, of our commitment to defend our allies, our partners, our friends, and to extended deterrence, he said. Pyongyang is the capital city of North Korea. The two allies agreed to bolster extended deterrence while maintaining a robust combined defense posture, Park said, adding that any provocations from North Korea will be met with a firm and united response. Peace without denuclearization is fake peace. North Koreas nuclear and missile programs are a direct and serious threat to not only [South] Korea, but also international peace and security, he said. They pledged to strengthen efforts to close loopholes in U.N. Security Council resolutions on North Korea and cut off the regimes unlawful revenue streams by countering North Koreas illicit cyber activities. Chinas Role Park also called on the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), a major ally of North Korea, to use its influence to rein in Pyongyangs missile launches. We agreed that China has a distinct capability and responsibility to influence Pyongyangs behavior. Denuclearization of North Korea has long been an area of cooperation for China as well as ROK and the United States, and it needs to stay that way, he said. President Joe Biden had previously urged the CCP to restrain North Korea from carrying out nuclear tests, and said that failure to do so would result in the United States taking certain actions that would be more defensive in response. Blinkens meeting with Park occurred just days after the defense chiefs of both countries agreed to expand their joint military exercises. There are about 28,500 U.S. troops stationed in South Korea, making it one of the largest U.S. troop deployments around the world. North Korea fired an unprecedented number of missiles in 2022, one of which reportedly flew over Japan and triggered warnings to citizens in the Hokkaido and Aomori prefectures to take shelter. In September 2022, North Korea approved a law allowing it to conduct a nuclear strike automatically against any hostile forces posing an imminent threat. China Trip Postponed Blinken said at the press conference that he was delaying a trip to China that was supposed to begin on Feb. 3, after a suspected Chinese spy balloon was spotted flying across the United States, which is a clear violation of U.S. sovereignty. The balloon was shot down on Feb. 4 by U.S. military aircraft. We concluded that conditions were not conducive for a constructive visit at this time, he said. Blinken said he had told senior Chinese diplomat Wang Yi that the incident on the eve of his trip was an irresponsible act by China but that Washington remains committed to engagement and he would visit when conditions allowed. Chinas foreign ministry said on Feb. 4 that the flight of the airship over the United States was a force majeure accident, accusing U.S. politicians and media of taking advantage of the situation to discredit China. Reuters contributed to this report. We Need to Reverse These Policies: Poilievre Condemns Hard Drug Decriminalization in BC A man stops to read a mural about the fentanyl and opioid overdose crisis, in the Downtown Eastside of Vancouver, in a file photo. (Darryl Dyck/The Canadian Press) As British Columbias temporary decriminalization of hard drugs kicks in this week, Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre says relaxation of illicit drug access and lax law enforcement in the province have led to surging overdose deaths and rising crime. Effective Jan. 31, B.C. residents aged 18 and over wont be arrested or charged if found in possession of less than 2.5 grams of any combination of cocaine, methamphetamine, MDMA, heroin, fentanyl, and/or morphine, for personal use, nor will their drugs be seized. A three-year experiment period for this policy will be in place until Jan. 31, 2026. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said last June that the federal governments decision to decriminalize possession of small amounts of illicit drugs in B.C. was to offer other supports amid the overdose crisis. Poilievre says the approach used by both the BC NDP and the federal government has been a complete disaster. Over the last eight years, Justin Trudeau has been in power, and for a similar time, the NDP has run British Columbia. And theyve allowed heroin, fentanyl, cocaine, and other drugs to flood our streets, Poilievre told NTD Television, The Epoch Times sister media. The results are in: theres more than a 300 percent increase in overdose deaths under Justin Trudeau, a 92 percent increase nationwide in gang killings, and a 32 percent increase in violent crime. The Trudeau/NDP approach has been a complete disaster. According to B.C. crime statistics in 2021, there were 80,942 police-reported criminal offences, among which 12,279 were drug offences. Of those, just one-fifth, or 2,264 cases, were prosecuted, and this was also a 33 percent decline in the prosecution rate compared to the previous year. Meanwhile, the B.C. government reported at least 2,272 deaths related to illicit drug overdose in 2022, the second-highest in a calendar year and just 34 fewer than the 2,306 deaths reported in 2021. It has created hell on earth in parts of our major cities, particularly east central Vancouver, Poilievre said. And the results of that speak for themselvesthe human stories of 30,000 people whove lost their lives. Those stories echo over the eight years that Trudeau has been in office. We need to reverse these policies, get drugs off our street, and get addicts into treatment. B.C. said on Jan. 30 that the move to decriminalize will help end the shame and stigma that prevents people with substance-use challenges from reaching out for life-saving help, while noting the temporary federal exemption doesnt mean illicit drugs are legalized. Right Approach Poilievre said we all will have more of the same when asked what will happen if the decriminalization approach to hard drugs is expanded. However, Justice Minister David Lametti said last June following B.C.s decriminalization announcement that there wont be a larger discussion about decriminalization nationwide. Instead of providing prescribed drugs, which the B.C. government will be investing $22.6 million over the next three years, Poilievre said the government should be investing in providing treatment to addicts. The right approach is to put our resources into treatment and recovery. That includes inpatient residential treatment centres, where thousands of people who are addicted to drugs can go. They can get medical detox and counselling, they can be separated from their addiction and the crowd and the gangs that got them into trouble in the first place, he said. They can build a plan for a job and family life after they get out. And then they can get some support when theyre back on the streets so they can pay their taxes, earn an income, take care of their families, and have happy lives. Thats the best way to do it. In addition, Poilievre said a strong border control policy and criminal penalties for drug dealers should be put in place. We also need to stop the importation of illegal drugs by reinforcing our borders, and we have to bring in tougher criminal penalties for those dealers and gang kingpins or making massive profits off of selling fentanyl and other lethal and poisonous drugs, he said. NTD Television contributed to this report. More than 13,500 Nigerians joined their communities in a lawsuit against Shell Plc before a landmark UK trial that could have far-reaching implications for parent-company responsibility over the actions of foreign subsidiaries, Bloomberg reported on Thursday The residents of the crude-rich Niger Delta are suing Shell's holding company and its Nigerian unit over oil spills they say have devastated their land and waterways. They are trying to persuade a UK court to order the energy giant to pay compensation and clean up the environmental damage. But Shell said its parent company cannot be legally liable for what happened in the West African country. If the oil giant loses the upcoming trial, it could open UK-incorporated firms -- including in the energy and mining industries -- to potentially costly lawsuits in British courts from groups around the world that accuse them of harm through overseas subsidiaries, the report said. More than 11,300 members of the Ogale community in Rivers state registered their claims at the UK High Court on January 27, according to a news release published by their British law firm, Leigh Day, on Thursday. They joined 2,335 people from the Bille fishing settlements and lawsuits brought on behalf of the communities that have been going through the English courts since 2015, the firm said. The four cases are being managed together. "The communities have had their way of life devastated by the spills and are asking for Shell to clean up their oil and compensate them for their loss of livelihoods as their ability to farm and fish has been largely destroyed," Bloomberg quoted Leigh Day as saying. Shell denies its parent company is liable, according to its defence filed in November 2021. The firm's Nigerian subsidiary "is fully equipped to manage all aspects of its operations in the Niger Delta," it said. According to Nigerian law, the communities cannot seek compensation for leaks caused by third parties or that occurred more than five years before the suits began, and only the Nigerian government can compel Shell to clean up spills, the company said in the defence. The Niger Delta is "a highly complex operating environment" and litigation "does little to address the real problem in the Niger Delta," which is pollution caused by criminality, Shell said by email. If Shell's case succeeds at trial, the arguments would "essentially deprive" most Nigerian communities living with legacy pollution of "any legal remedy against oil companies," according to Leigh Day. Western allies pledged precision rockets and missile systems to Ukraine on Friday, after President Volodymyr Zelensky called for sophisticated weapons to help retain control of the embattled eastern city of Bakhmut. The European Union agreed to introduce price caps on Russian petroleum products to try to further limit Russian President Vladimir Putin's war chest by targeting his key exports. The announcements came shortly after Zelensky told a summit with EU leaders in Kyiv: "No one will surrender Bakhmut. We will fight as long as we can. "If weapon (deliveries) are accelerated -- namely long-range weapons -- we will not only not withdraw from Bakhmut, we will begin to de-occupy Donbas," he said of the eastern region of Ukraine. The United States on Friday announced a new $2.2-billion package of arms and munitions, which the Pentagon said included a new rocket-propelled precision bomb that could nearly double Kyiv's strike range against Russian forces. The ground-launched small-diameter bombs (GLSDB), which can fly up to 150 kilometres (93 miles), could threaten key Russian supply lines, arms depots and air bases far behind the front lines. They potentially give Kyiv's forces the ability to strike anywhere in the Russian-occupied Donbas, Zaporizhzhia and Kherson regions, as well as the northern part of occupied Crimea. However, "the delivery of the GLSDB likely won't be for several months due to contracting, production, and delivery timelines", said Pentagon spokesman Lt Col Garron Garn, declining to say how many would be delivered. France and Italy will deliver mobile surface-to-air missile systems, the French defence ministry said, in response to an urgent request from Kyiv to help protect "civilian populations and infrastructure from Russian air attacks". The systems, called MAMBA or SAMP, are vehicle-mounted batteries of medium-range missiles designed to offer protection from airborne threats such as missiles and manned or unmanned aircraft. Ukrainian Defence Minister Oleksiy Reznikov, who had requested the weapons, tweeted his gratitude, saying the systems would "help us save thousands of lives" from Russian attacks. Kyiv is also asking for fighter jets. It has already secured promises from the West for deliveries of modern battle tanks and, after months of hesitation, Germany authorised the delivery of Leopard 1 tanks. Targeting Russian refined oil products In Brussels, the EU, the Group of Seven industrialised countries and Australia agreed to cap the price of Russian refined oil products to accompany an embargo on ship deliveries of the products that comes into force on Sunday. Already in December, the EU imposed an embargo on Russian crude oil coming into the bloc by sea and -- with its G7 partners -- imposed a $60-per-barrel cap on Russian crude exports to other parts of the world. The new embargo and price caps starting Sunday will target Russian refined oil products such as petrol, diesel and heating fuel arriving on ships. The Kremlin warned that the measures would destabilise world markets. European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen estimated this week that the crude oil price cap costs Moscow around 160 million euros ($170 million) daily. 'No timeline' on EU membership At the Kyiv summit, the EU praised Ukraine's "considerable efforts" to start the reforms needed for joining the bloc, but urged it to go further. Corruption is a key European concern. Ukraine has widened efforts to tackle it, with raids this week on an oligarch with political connections and a former interior minister. Zelensky, who is pressing for speedy EU accession, suggested Friday that talks could begin this year. "What exactly did we agree upon today?" Zelensky said in his regular evening address. "There is an understanding that it is possible to start negotiations on Ukraine's membership in the European Union this year." But the path to joining the EU could take years. Von der Leyen cautioned that the process was merit-based and there could be "no rigid timelines" on either negotiations or membership. For now, the EU says it will do more to divert Russia's frozen assets for use compensating Ukraine for damage inflicted since the invasion. Brussels also plans to roll out a new package of sanctions on the first anniversary of the invasion, February 24. Not a military target There was no let-up in fighting in Bakhmut, the front line of a prolonged battle between Ukrainian and Russian forces. Throughout Friday morning, AFP journalists heard a steady exchange of small-arms fire and the pounding of mortar shells to and from Russian positions. An American humanitarian medic was killed in the city when his evacuation vehicle was hit by a missile, according to Global Outreach Doctors, with whom he was working. The 33-year-old victim, Pete Reed, was a former US Marine Corps rifleman who also worked as a paramedic, according to the organisation's founder, Andrew Lustig. Several others were reportedly hurt in the strike. Local man Oleksandr Tkachenko, 65, said it was "clear" the car, which was destroyed, was not a military target. Residents trying to rescue the occupants had also come under attack, he added. Search Keywords: Short link: President Muhammadu Buhari has arrived in Lafia, the capital of of Nasarawa State, to unveil some Federal Government projects including the Agricultural Machinery and Equipment Development Institute. It was learnt that AMEDI is one of the President Buhari's legacies meant to make Nigeria a hub and supplier of agro-allied technology, equipment, and machinery. The project is also said to make the nation self-sufficient in food production as well as creating more sustainable jobs for Nigerias teeming youths. AMEDI, a multi-billion naira product of the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure is equipped with modern laboratories and machines for mechanised farming and agricultural development in the country. The Executive Vice Chairman/Chief Executive of NASENI, Prof. Muhammed Haruna, who spoke to State House correspondents, expressed optimism that AMEDI would assist the Federal Governments plans to promote food security in the country. Prof. Haruna further said similar centres will soon be inaugurated within the lifetime of the Buhari regime across the country. Meanwhile, President Buhari is also expected to unveil the newly constructed Federal Secretariat, Lafia and visit the Emirs Palace in Lafia before attending the campaign rally of the All Progressives Congress at the Lafia Stadium. Nigerians in Chalong, Rawai arrested for overstay PHUKET: Officers from Phuket Immigration and the Phuket Tourist Police have arrested four Nigerian men staying Chalong and Rawai for overstaying in the country for more than three years. immigrationcrime By The Phuket News Saturday 4 February 2023, 09:06AM The four men were arrested yesterday (Feb 3) through an operation led by Phuket Tourist Police Deputy Chief Lt ColEkachai Siri. Na Kenneth Chibuso, 34, was arrested at an unregistered rented room in Soi Palai, Moo 3, Chalong, after he was caught illegally staying in the country more than 1,207 days. James Chinoniaram Onmunyimmao, 30, was arrested by the roadside at the entrance of Soi Chao Fa 49, Chalong, after he was found to have illegally stayed in the country more than 1,469 days. Oliver Abazi Uchechukwu (age note reported) was arrested along Sai Yuan Soi 9 in Moo 7, Rawai, after he was found to have stayed in the country more than 1,221 days. Michael Arinze Ejigu, 31, was arrested (location not reported) after he was found illegally staying in the country more than 1,236 days. All four were handed over to Royal Thai Police for legal action, Lt Col Ekachai reported. The four were brought to the attention of officials by tip-offs from good citizens, Lt Col Ekachai said. The men had used real estate agents to find locations where they could stay out of sight from the general public, such as at houses and rented rooms in dead-end streets, he said. The men had other people go out shopping for them. They cooked and ate at home, he added. The tip-offs followed people being concerned that the four men were involved in illegal activities, such as romance scams, Lt Col Ekachai said. Parks chief sacked amid corruption investigation BANGKOK: The Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation (DNP) chief Rutchada Suriyakul Na Ayutya was on Friday (Feb 3) dismissed from the role. Saturday 4 February 2023, 09:00AM Rutchada: Faces long probe Ministry of Natural Resources and Environments permanent secretary Jatuporn Buruspat revealed that the dismissal paves the way for a transparent investigation into accusations against Mr Rutchada, reports the Bangkok Post. Mr Jatuporn said the ministry realised that a thorough investigation is likely to be a lengthy process due to a large number of people having been requested for testimony. "What the ministry has done is based on civil service regulations. Mr Rutchada ceased to be a state official when the order was made on Feb 3. The investigation is to ensure transparency and fairness to all stakeholders. We want the public to be updated and regain trust in our organisation," he said. Mr Jatuporn added that the committee would collect and assess any additional information and reach a consensus based on fairness. Talerngsak Petchsuwan, the ministrys deputy permanent secretary who is heading the investigative committee, said 50 state officials had been questioned so far. When this stage is completed, he will invite Mr Rutchada to hear the verdict. Mr Rutchada can subsequently lodge an appeal with the Administrative Court if he so wishes. He was arrested on Dec 27 at his office on suspicion of demanding or taking bribes from subordinates and malfeasance. A total of B4.9 million in cash was found in his safe during the arrest, which was made following a tip-off from Chaiwat Limlikitaksorn, the departments director of the 9th regional conservative areas management office. Names of forest officials appeared on envelopes stuffed with cash found in his office. To boost public confidence in the department, Environment Minister Varawut Silpa-archa moved Mr Rutchada to an inactive post and appointed the chief of the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources, Attaporn Charoenchansa, as a stand-in. Mr Attaporn immediately set up a full-scale inquiry and moved at least two other state officials to inactive posts following allegations of their involvement in the affair. In 2021 Duhaime called it abnormal that we are unable to accommodate more than 800 patients in our hospitals, while Quebec taxpayers pay a billion dollars a week for their healthcare system The problem is not Omicron, but an inefficient healthcare system. Pope Francis on Saturday will meet victims of South Sudan's civil war, a day after delivering an impassioned plea for the country's leaders to recommit to peace for the sake of their long-suffering people. Francis is making the first papal visit to South Sudan since it gained independence from Sudan in 2011 but then plunged into a brutal ethnic conflict that left the young nation divided and traumatised. Some 380,000 people died in five years of bloodshed before the civil war formally ended in 2018, with a ceasefire between warring leaders who remain in power today. But the country remains fragile and violent and Francis, who tried to broker peace between the rival parties, is visiting South Sudan as it lurches from one crisis to the next. At his first event Saturday, the wheelchair-bound pope met South Sudan's religious leaders, who work with the poor and marginalised and are deeply respected in the devout country where 60 percent of its 12 million people are Christian. He said they must "step into the middle of (people's) sufferings and tears," adding that the Church had a duty to be "willing to dirty its hands for people". Crowds numbering several thousands had turned out early to wait for the 86-year-old pontiff in the courtyard of the Cathedral of Saint Therese, many waving national flags and ululating as they gave him a jubilant welcome. "We came here to receive his blessings. This is all about peace. Pope Francis is not even walking, and he is still coming here to encourage our leaders," said John Makuei, 24. He said he arrived before dawn so he did not miss this "historic day". 'A new start' Later Saturday, the Argentine pontiff will address a group of South Sudanese living in a camp outside Juba who were forced to flee ethnic violence during the war. They will be brought to the capital for an audience with Francis, who has made the defence of migrants and those on the margins a pillar of his papacy. Despite a peace deal technically ending the war, conflict still drives people from their homes, and there are some 2.2 million internally displaced across South Sudan, according to UN data from December. On Saturday evening, Francis will hold a joint prayer with the Archbishop of Canterbury and the Moderator of the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland, who joined him in the country. On Friday, Francis delivered a pointed speech to the country's political leaders, warning they must make "a new start" toward reconciliation and end the greed and power struggles tearing the nation apart. "Future generations will either venerate your names or cancel their memory, based on what you now do," he told an audience that included President Salva Kiir and his rival and deputy Riek Machar, as well as diplomats, religious leaders and traditional kings. "No more bloodshed, no more conflicts, no more violence and mutual recriminations about who is responsible for it, no more leaving your people athirst for peace." Prisoners pardoned The pope promised in 2019 to travel to South Sudan, when he hosted Kiir and Machar at a Vatican retreat and asked them to respect a hard-fought ceasefire for their people. In scenes that reverberated in South Sudan, Francis knelt and kissed the feet of two foes whose personal armies had been accused of horrific war crimes. But four years later, the country remains mired in intractable conflict and lags at the bottom of global rankings on health, poverty and stable governance. Human rights groups have urged Francis to press South Sudan's leaders to address widespread impunity for abuses and deliver justice for victims of war-era atrocities committed on their watch. After his meeting with the pope, Kiir announced in a decree he was pardoning 71 prisoners, including 36 on death row, but gave no other details. Gladys Mananyu, 62, said she "felt blessed" to be in the pope's presence. "To me, his message is one of hope, one that will bring us together," she told AFP as his convoy passed by. The pope's stop in South Sudan follows a visit to the Democratic Republic of Congo, another resource-rich country plagued by persistent conflict and also often overlooked by the world. The visit -- Francis's fifth to Africa -- was initially scheduled for 2022 but had to be postponed because of problems with the pope's knee. The affliction has made him dependent on a wheelchair and has seen the itinerary pared back in both countries. Search Keywords: Short link: A small plane that crashed last month as it approached a suburban New York airport, killing two people on board, had a damaged engine that led the aircraft to bleed oil, according to an investigation by National Transportation Safety Board. Investigators said they found a hole in the top of the crankcase and noted fresh oil at the bottom of the fuselage, which apparently caused the plane to fly poorly. The single-engine Beechcraft A36 was flying from New Yorks John F. Kennedy International Airport to the Cuyahoga County Airport in Richmond Heights, Ohio, on Jan. 19. The pilot had radioed air traffic controllers that the plane was approaching the White Plains airport with a dead cylinder, but then went silent not long after broadcasting, mayday mayday mayday mayday. The aircraft was about a mile (1.6 km) from the Westchester County Airport at around 6:15 p.m. The airport is near White Plains, about 39 miles (63 km) north of JFK. Boruch Taub ZL and Binyamin Chafetz ZL, both residents of Cleveland, were RL killed in the crash. (AP) He had been brought from the battlefields of Syria to a New York lockup, a U.S. citizen charged with serving as a sniper and weapons trainer for the Islamic State group. And even in jail, Ruslan Maratovich Asainov kept a makeshift version of the militants black flag right above the desk in his cell, according to trial testimony this week. Whats the big deal? Its mine. Its religious, then-jail lieutenant Judith Woods recalled him saying when she went to confiscate the hand-drawn image in 2020. Years after the fall of the extremist groups self-proclaimed Islamic caliphate, the trial is a reminder of the enduring and far-reaching fallout of a war that drew tens of thousands of foreign fighters to Syria and Iraq. Their home countries are still contending with what should become of them. Jurors, who are expected to start deliberating as soon as Monday, have gotten a refresher course ISs gruesome rule and its sophisticated, social-media-savvy recruitment of distant supporters to come and take up arms. Prosecutors say Asainov did so and rose through the groups ranks, eventually becoming an emir who taught other members to use weapons. In post-arrest videos shown at his trial, he gives his occupation as a sniper to FBI agents and readily tells them that he provided instruction in everything from rifle maintenance to ballistics to adjusting for weather effects and, of course, how to actually pull the trigger. Oh, its a long lesson, he explains, sitting on a bed in a room where he was being held. I would give, like, a three-hour lesson, just on that, just to pull the trigger. Jurors have seen photos alleged to be of Asainov in camouflage, aiming a rifle, and the handmade flag that Woods said she took from his cell. Witnesses have included his flabbergasted ex-wife, who testified that he morphed from a Brooklyn family man into a zealot. She said he weighed in from Syria to complain about their daughter donning a Halloween costume and sent a photo of the bodies of what he said were comrades killed in a battle, according to the Daily News of New York. Asainov chose not to testify. One of his lawyers, Susan Kellman, has said he went to Syria because he wanted to live under Islamic law. He has pleaded not guilty a plea that Kellman entered on his behalf because, she said, he didnt abide by the American legal system. Nonetheless, the 46-year-old Asainov listened politely to government witnesses on a day this week, alternately stroking his beard and folding his arms across his chest. IS fighters seized portions of Iraq and Syria in 2014 and declared the establishment of a so-called Islamic caliphate there, at a time when Syria was already convulsed by civil war. Fighting laid waste to multiple cities before Iraqs prime minister declared the caliphate vanquished in 2017; the extremists lost the last of their territory two years later, though sporadic attacks persist even now. During the height of the fighting, as many as 40,000 people from 120 countries showed up to join in, according to the United Nations. There is no comprehensive U.S. statistic on Americans among those foreign fighters; a 2018 report by George Washington Universitys Program on Extremism found at least 64 who had joined jihadist fighting in Iraq and Syria since 2011. Since ISs defeat, some foreign members and their families have lingered in detention facilities in Syria because their countries refused to take them back. Other accused foreign fighters have returned to their countries, including some who were prosecuted. Recent U.S. cases include a Kansas mother who led an all-female IS battalion, a Minnesota man who served in a battalion that prepared foreign fighters for suicide attacks in Europe, and a Detroit-area convicted this week of training with and then spending more than two years with the group. Born in Kazakhstan, Asainov is a naturalized U.S. citizen. He lived in Brooklyn starting in 1998, married and had a child. Then he flew to Istanbul on a one-way ticket in December 2013 and made his way to Syria to join what he later described in a message as the worst terrorist organization in the world that has ever existed, authorities say. You heard of ISIS, he said in another text message in January 2015, according to prosecutors court filings. We will get you. By that April, Asainov told an acquaintance in fact, a government informant that hed been fighting in Syria for about a year, according to court papers. They say that in various exchanges, he urged the informant to come to Syria and help with ISs media operations, asked for $2,800 to buy a rifle scope, and sent photos of himself with fatigues and rifle, saying he didnt mean to show off but was showing what was just normal in his new life. Authorities announced in July 2019 that U.S.-backed forces in Syria had captured Asainov and turned him over to the FBI. He faces charges that include providing material support to a U.S.-designated foreign terrorist organization. If convicted, he could be sentenced to life in prison. (AP) Satellite photos analyzed by The Associated Press on Friday showed damage done to what Iran describes as a military workshop targeted by Israeli drones, the latest such assault amid a shadow war between the two countries. While Iran has offered no explanation yet of what the workshop manufactured, the drone attack threatened to again raise tensions in the region. Already, worries have grown over Tehran enriching uranium closer than ever to weapons-grade levels, with a top United Nations nuclear official warning the Islamic Republic had enough fuel to build several atomic bombs if it chooses. Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, whose earlier tenure as premier saw escalating attacks targeting Iran, has returned to office and reiterated that he views Tehran as his countrys top security threat. With State Department spokesperson Ned Price now declaring Iran has killed the opportunity to return to its nuclear deal with world powers, it remains unclear what diplomacy immediately could ease tensions between Tehran and the West. Cloudy weather had prevented satellite pictures of the site of the workshop since it came under attack by what Iran described as bomb-carrying quadcopters on the night of Jan. 28. Quadcopters, which get their name from having four rotors, typically operate from short ranges by remote control. Video taken of the attack showed an explosion at the site after anti-aircraft fire targeted the drones, likely from one of the drones reaching the buildings roof. Irans military has claimed shooting down two other drones before they reached the site. Images taken Thursday by Planet Labs PBC showed the workshop in Isfahan, a central Iranian city some 350 kilometers (215 miles) south of Tehran. An AP analysis of the image, compared to earlier images of the workshop, showed damage to the structures roof. That damage corresponded to footage aired by Iranian state television immediately after the attack that showed at least two holes in the buildings roof. The Iranian state TV footage, as well as satellite photos, suggest the buildings roof also may have been built with so-called slat armor. The structure resembles a cage built around roofs or armored vehicles to stop direct detonation from rockets, missiles or bomb-carrying drones against a target. Installation of such protection at the workshop suggests Iran believed it could be a drone target. Irans Intelligence Ministry in July claimed to have broken up a plot to target sensitive sites around Isfahan. A segment aired on Iranian state TV in October included purported confessions by alleged members of Komala, a Kurdish opposition party that is exiled from Iran and now lives in Iraq, that they planned to target a military aerospace facility in Isfahan after being trained by Israels Mossad intelligence service. It remains unclear whether the military workshop targeted in the drone attack was that aerospace facility. Irans mission to the United Nations did not immediately respond to a request for comment regarding the satellite images and other questions about the workshop. The attack comes Irans theocratic government faces challenges both at home and abroad. Nationwide protests have shaken the country since the September death of Mahsa Amini, a Kurdish-Iranian woman detained by the countrys morality police. Its rial currency has plummeted to new lows against the U.S. dollar. Meanwhile, Iran continues to arm Russia with the bomb-carrying drone that Moscow uses in attacks in Ukraine on power plants and civilian targets. Israel is suspected of launching a series of attacks on Iran, including an April 2021 assault on its underground Natanz nuclear facility that damaged its centrifuges. In 2020, Iran blamed Israel for a sophisticated attack that killed its top military nuclear scientist. Israel has not commented on this drone attack. However, Israeli officials rarely acknowledge operations carried out by the countrys secret military units or the Mossad. A letter published Thursday by Irans ambassador to the U.N., Amir Saeid Iravani, said that early investigations suggest that the Israeli regime was responsible for this attempted act of aggression. The letter, however, did not elaborate on what evidence supported Irans suspicion. (AP) Visitors paint Chinese opera masks at a special celebratory event held at the Australian National Maritime Museum in Sydney, Australia, Feb. 4, 2023. (Xinhua/Bai Xuefei) SYDNEY, Feb. 4 (Xinhua) -- As the Chinese Lantern Festival is approaching, a special celebratory event is held in Australia's National Maritime Museum over the weekend, providing a unique opportunity for local residents to experience China's fascinating culture and tradition. The two-day event, jointly hosted by the museum and the China Cultural Center in Sydney, features several workshops including Chinese calligraphy and painting, Chinese opera mask painting, folding fan painting, as well as traditional Chinese musical instrument performances. Visitors could also wear Hanfu, the traditional Chinese clothing, watch the tea art show, and create their own paper lanterns, shadow puppets and dragon boat models. The event is also a part of the museum's Lunar Sea program to celebrate the traditional Chinese New Year. "For us, to be able to share a genuine, authentic experience with Australians on what it means to the Chinese and the Chinese Australian, to get an authentic experience of the music and the dance, and to have people understand the rich complexity of different cultures is a really important part of what we want to do," the museum's director and CEO Daryl Karp told Xinhua. "The festival also allows us to attract more people who normally don't come to a museum. We'd love to have far more Chinese and international visitors." Wearing a dress drawing inspiration from the design of Qipao, the traditional Chinese clothing in Qing Dynasty, Sydney resident Fabiola Sepulveda has a keen interest in Chinese culture. She used to study in China for about one year and has some basic knowledge about those traditional festivals, but some of the cultural programs are still new to her. "I was searching about what was going on for the Year of Rabbit and I found the event here. I really want to enjoy this activity, and try those that I haven't tried before," Sepulveda said. "I like a lot of things from the Chinese culture, like the dance, the music, the traditional instrument and the Chinese food, and especially the respect and connection they have with other people." For the local Australian Chinese, the event also presents a good opportunity to find more about their cultural background. "We were born in Australia so we weren't really exposed to a lot of the things about the Chinese culture when we were younger. I think right now is a good opportunity for us to learn more about our culture," said Angela who came to the event with her mum. As a student studying art and architecture in the university, she thought the most fascinating ones would be the things related to the arts, like Hanfu, embroidery and ink painting. "I'm trying to get a grasp of the Chinese culture, exposing myself more to this...Hopefully, it may give me inspiration to start doing more things related to the Chinese culture and being influenced by the Chinese culture more, whether that be in my artworks or my design," she said. A visitor (1st R) consults staff members about a special celebratory event held at the Australian National Maritime Museum in Sydney, Australia, Feb. 4, 2023. (Xinhua/Bai Xuefei) A staff member presents a rabbit mascot at a special celebratory event held at the Australian National Maritime Museum in Sydney, Australia, Feb. 4, 2023. (Xinhua/Bai Xuefei) Children try the art of paper folding at a special celebratory event held at the Australian National Maritime Museum in Sydney, Australia, Feb. 4, 2023. (Xinhua/Bai Xuefei) A visitor paints a Chinese opera mask at a special celebratory event held at the Australian National Maritime Museum in Sydney, Australia, Feb. 4, 2023. (Xinhua/Bai Xuefei) Fadel w Neama (Fadel and Neama) by Rami Imam is a lackluster comedy that nevertheless scored high in the box office, earning around EGP 17 million since its release in October last year. Starring Egyptian-Tunisian actress Hend Sabry and Egyptian actor Maged El-Kedwany, the films success continues to resonate across the countrys governorates. The comedy has attracted many viewers with its simple plot and unexpected happy ending. Neama (Hend Sabry) is a talented cook who, together with her husband Fadel (Maged El-Kedwany), a wise perfectionist, owns a mobile restaurant. However, their activity is displeasing their daughter Laila who is immersed in the virtual world of social networks and their son Ali who feels embarrassed in front of his school friends with the parents business. One day, the couple decides to participate in a cooking contest, but, as luck can be tricky, only some things go as planned. A sequence of adventures begins, and the couple finds themselves chased by a gang. They try to control the situation, hoping to make their children proud of them. On a dramatic level, this simple story could have been very rich, yet unfortunately, it lacks a necessary flavour. From the first scenes, we realize we do not follow the much advertised comedy and its many comic elements fail to generate much laughter. This is despite El-Kedwanys comedic qualifications. In his previous films, El-Kedwany has shown himself capable of making viewers laugh while retaining the dramatic power to make them cry. It is said that even the best actors occasionally fail to deliver; however, in this case, the devil is in the script, tainted with a reasonably spicy deja vu. The screenwriter Ayman Wattar turns in circles, infusing the drama with a sequence of jokes and linguistic comic effects, all of which seek to make people chuckle in the movie theatre. Unfortunately, an excessive series of gags only unveiled the profound deficiencies of the scenario. Almost burlesque The characters are caricatures, and the dialogue is quite heavy. The abundance of the isolated from one another funny sequences and cliches do not have any real dramatic utility. Throughout its 105 minutes, the film is infused with tasteless jokes, forced suspense and adventures where some are flatter than others. It is difficult to grasp where the plot wants to take us, even if many audience members find the film amusing and deserving of a sociological reflection. In Fadel and Neama, the director Rami Imam, who carved himself a name in blockbuster comedy fiction, has fallen into the trap of slowness and visual chatter. This time, he needed to catch up with the pace needed for a good comedy. While the main actors have already proven themselves a thousand times over, they simply lack a good script and better guidance to present something worthy of their talent. The names of Hend Sabry and Maged El-Kedwany build expectations. However, the latter comedian underplays Fadel as if he did not believe in the character he performed while keeping the ingredients of the characters from his previous films. Unlike El-Kedwany, Hend Sabry overplays her role in an effort to elicit laughter from the audience. Again, nothing unbearable, but in total we expected better. While trying to find their way in this comic adventure, their usual charisma could not save the day, especially in the eyes of critics. The silver lining came with a small group of supporting actors Sherif Desouky, Mahmoud Hafez and Bayoumi Fouad who could offer something unique, each in his own right. Mohamad Radwan supported this fun trio, who played his role perfectly. In short, despite the galaxy of stars, Fadel and Neama remains a comedy of very average quality, especially due to its predictable scenario and the overplayed segments. The film could work for a TV evening, and its success in the movie theatres can be explained by the general publics expectations altered by the effect of streaming platforms. Search Keywords: Short link: As incitement against the right-wing government of Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu continues to break records, one of the leaders of the protests against the government called for Netanyahus murder based on din rodeif. Referring to the statements of Attorney David Hodek, who called last week for the use of live fire against the government, Col (res.) Zeev Raz, a former fight pilot who led the attack on the nuclear reactor in Iraq, wrote on social media: Im surprised by the moderation of Hodaks statements. Just defending yourself with a weapon? Passive? If a prime minister stands up and assumes dictatorial powers, that prime minister is a ben meves simply like that, along with his ministers and his followers. We also need to have a din rofeif. My din rodeif says: If a person, foreign or Israeli, takes over my country and leads it in an undemocratic manner, it is mandatory to kill him. Its impolite, offensive, but the choice is a lot of innocent deaths, and its better to kill the criminals first. Im preparing a detailed opinion on the subject. In response, the Likud party issued a statement: The incitement against Prime Minister Netanyahu breaks records of insanity. We are shocked by Zeev Razs call to assassinate Prime Minister Netanyahu and the ministers of the government. The Shin Bet and the police must act immediately to arrest him and the other instigators against Prime Minister Netanyahu. Finance Minister Betzalel Smotrich responded: Youve gone off the deep end. It started when opposition leader Lapid irresponsibly encouraged pulling investments from Israel to Singapore in an attempt to harm the Israeli economy, continued when a lawyer called for the use of live fire, and now Zeev Raz who openly calls for the assassination of the prime minister and the ministers. Members of the opposition, show responsibility and stop now! Raz later apologized for his statements, writing on Facebook: The post I posted here with the words din rodef was a quote from a person who retracted it, and I deleted it. I do not identify with that post. (YWN Israel Desk Jerusalem) Amid the drama of assembling a force of Leopard tanks and fighter jets to repel the latest Russian offensive in Ukraine, the execution of the West's financial crusade has fallen off the radar. The Russian economy is in a far better place than Nato may have hoped, with the IMF projecting recovery this year and next. Russian oil and other trades have been directed to non-sanctioning nations. And in spite of Western support, Ukraine's economy is being pushed to the limits with output projected to tumble by a further 5 per cent this year. The willingness of China, India et al to keep trade alive with Vladimir Putin in the face of sanctions makes it imperative that Western firms tighten the noose. Staying put: Unilever has a big presence in Russia, with 3,500 employees and four major production facilities It is humiliating for Britain's luxury fashion house Paul Smith that its latest emblematic clothing designs were still on display a year after the outbreak of hostilities. Smith has had to beat a hasty retreat. What is even more startling is that the UK's flagship consumer good group Unilever, which trades under the banner of making 'sustainable living commonplace', has stayed open in Russia during the last year of grisly warfare. The maker of Dove soap, Hellmann's mayonnaise and Magnum ice cream has earned an estimated 500million since the start of the conflict. Unilever has a big presence in Russia, with 3,500 employees and four major production facilities. It has maintained that it didn't want to damage the welfare of its staff. Yet there is no escaping the fact that by keeping Russia supplied with hygiene and other products, the group is making life more comfortable for the aggressors in a blood-stained conflict. Continued presence is a direct affront to Unilever's image as apostles of ethical investing. In contrast to Unilever's pussyfooting, some of the great names of capitalism showed little hesitation in pulling out. Links: Goldman Sachs had a thriving investment banking arm in Russia, reaching deep into the country's commerce Goldman Sachs had a thriving investment banking arm in Russia, reaching deep into the country's commerce. It moved rapidly to sever ties with the rest of Goldman and the financial system, and the rump was bought out by local managers. Western sanctions may have hurt living standards in Moscow, but have not brought the country to its knees. When they were first imposed, it was thought that financial measures such as cutting off Putin from the Swift money transfer system and the Western banks would bring his kleptocracy to its knees. Banking sanctions finally brought the apartheid regime in South Africa to its senses. The big difference is that Pretoria was under siege from both the West and the non-aligned world. Putin has forged an alliance of the disgruntled which reinforces still unquenched territorial ambition. City slickers A widely held view when Britain left the EU was that the ability of the City to exercise influence over financial trading in Europe would be diminished. The EU was desperate to ditch the Anglo-Saxon model. Among other things, it proposed a clampdown on dark trading or pools which allow critical players such as big battalion investors to deal without disclosing details until they are completed. Brussels looks to have decided that if you can't beat them, join them. Just a few weeks ago, Euronext chiefs were making dubious claims about having overtaken the London Stock Exchange for share trading. In an interview with the journal The Trade, Simon Gallagher, Euronext's head of cash and derivatives, concedes: 'The weight of the Financial Conduct Authority and the City in European regulation has never been greater. Post-Brexit the City is defining the rules of Continental Europe more than ever before.' The government view that of all the economy's sectors, the Square Mile was fit enough to swim on its own is being vindicated. Lotus position Remember Lotus? Colin Chapman's Norfolk-based racing and fast cars were seen as a triumph of British engineering. But like so many brilliant UK car marques, it failed commercially and ended up in the hands of China, with the advanced engineering some of which inspired the Tesla Roadster remaining on these shores. There are now plans to float Lotus Technology in New York with a heady valuation of 4.4billion. What that will mean for Lotus UK, the brains and heritage behind the brand, is anyone's guess. Why New York rather than London? Just check the performance of Ferrari versus Aston Martin. There are some takeover rumours that are practically evergreen, with chatter resurfacing whenever the market goes a bit quiet. One of these involves mining behemoth BHP and retail investor favourite SolGold, which is working on a copper and gold mine in Ecuador. BHP first invested in SolGold in 2018 and has more than doubled its initial stake, making it one of its biggest shareholders. Digging deep: BHP first invested in SolGold in 2018 and has more than doubled its initial stake The City rumour mill reckons a takeover of the South American miner could emerge later this year though this is the same mill that said it would happen in 2021 and 2022. But some senior industry bigwigs reckon this is wide of the mark, noting it will take years before SolGold gets its prize project off the ground. The long wait could be enough to put off any possible buyer. One thing is certain. As long as BHP sits on its investment, the speculation will keep churning. Britishvolt administration process rumbles on The administration process for electric car battery start-up Britishvolt rumbles on, weeks after a rescue deal valuing the company at 32 million failed to materialise. Potential bidders were reported to have until Wednesday to submit bids to rescue the firm, which captured the imagination of politicians and the green tech industry with its plan to build a sprawling battery factory in Northumberland. Whatever gets signed, it will almost certainly price Britishvolt at a fraction of its 774 million valuation when it raised money in February last year. But we hear that Britishvolt pressed for an even higher value than that, about 1.5 billion, during an autumn fundraising attempt just months before it went bust. Yikes. No deferred bonus at TSB We recently flagged up that TSB was set to block a deferred bonus to former boss Paul Pester after he presided over a disastrous IT meltdown. The botched upgrade left millions of customers locked out of their accounts for weeks and earned the lender the unfortunate moniker of 'Totally Shambolic Bank'. And lo, buried in the lender's latest accounts is the line that, following the 48.7 million fine slapped on the bank by City regulators, neither Pester who left with a 1.7 million pay-off nor anyone else involved in the 2018 systems snafu would get any more money. You heard it here first Shot in the arm for UK mining The UK's fledgling some might say flailing mining industry was given a shot in the arm when Galantas Gold snapped up a gold project in Scotland. The AIM-listed group, which until now has focused on Northern Ireland, said it had bought exclusive rights to ferret around the stunning Gairloch Estate in the Highlands from its owners. But it has done little to boost Galantas's share price which is lower than when the announcement was made and is down by a fifth so far this year. Contributor: Patrick Tooher Vote of confidence: Poppy Gustafsson purchased 48,000 ordinary shares The boss of Darktrace has snapped up 100,000 of shares in the tech firm, in a vote of confidence following a short-seller attack earlier this week. Poppy Gustafsson purchased 48,000 ordinary shares in the cybersecurity company on Wednesday. The 40-year-old chief executive bought the shares at an aggregate price of 2.254 pounds per share, the equivalent of 108,000 in total. It comes after the Cambridge-based FTSE 250 firm defended itself against claims that it fabricated clients in an endeavour to inflate sales figures. A report from the New-York based short-seller Quintessential Capital Management, published on Tuesday, claimed that Darktrace had used irregular accounting practices. The company was accused by the US hedge fund of simulating sales to 'phantom' customers through a 'network of willing resellers' and possibly misrepresenting the nature of its revenue. Gustafsson called the allegations 'unfounded inferences' on Wednesday, while the firm launched a 75million share buyback. The boss added that she would 'push back in the strongest terms on any suggestions that this is a business that is not being run with the greatest integrity'. She continued: 'Our technology is world-class, created here in the UK by some of the brightest minds, and we are solving one of society's most pressing challenges the terrible costs of cyber disruption.' The company would also 'continue to address any legitimate questions that may arise', she said. Darktrace made a blockbuster debut on the London Stock Exchange in April 2021. But its valuation has since been hit, plunging 40 per cent in the past year. Following the short-seller assault, Darktrace's share price fell to below its 250p flotation in 2021. Darktrace shares nudged higher yesterday, closing at 243.1p, but still below its listing price. In a note, broker Jefferies, which led Darktrace's public offering, said the firm had issued a 'robust rebuttal' that answered many of Quintessential's points. Cathy Graham's arrival as chief financial officer before its market debut had strengthened processes to ensure it had legitimate financial systems, the broker added. As part of its listing, Darktrace reviewed contracts and did not include those that failed to come up to scratch. These were 'small in number' and should 'give investors comfort' on its annual recurring revenue, Jefferies said. The 12th edition of the Luxor African Film Festival (LAFF) kicked off on Saturday in the great southern Egyptian city of Luxor with the attendance of dozens of celebrities, filmmakers and critics. Running until 10 February, the LAFF will host screenings of over 50 films from 31 countries participating in its various competitions and parallel programs, as well as a number of talks and seminars. During the opening, the festivals organisers honoured Egyptian actors Mohamed Ramadan and Hala Sedky, Egyptian composer Hesham Nazih, Senegalese director Mansour Sora Wade, and Mozambican producer Pedro Pimenta. A number of late artists were also celebrated, including Egyptian actor Salah Mansour, Algerian actress Chafia Boudraa, and Tunisian actor Hichem Rostom. LAFF will pay tribute to Senegalese cinema and its filmmakers, as Senegal is the country guest of honour for this edition. Under the helm of the LAFF founder, scriptwriter Sayed Fouad, the festival is hosting 10 cinema workshops in different disciplines. Many prominent African filmmakers and actors are members of the various juries. With 12 films competing, the long narrative and documentary film jury committee comprises Senegalese director Mansour Sora Wade, Tunisian director Sonia Chamkhi, Moroccan actress Amal Ayouch, Egyptian screenwriter Abdel-Rahim Kamal, and Egyptian producer Mohamed Hefzy. The slogan of LAFF's 12th edition is Cinema is the Quest of Immortality. This slogan is reflected in the festivals poster design by Mahmoud Ismail Abou Al-Enin, which depicts boats sailing towards the sun and to the Nile's West bank of Luxor, where funerary temples and tombs are filled with inscriptions representing ancient beliefs in eternal life after death. With Filmmaker Azza Elhosseiny as LAFFs co-founder and executive director, star Mahmoud Hemeida continues as the honorary president in this edition. Since its founding, the festival has aimed to spread awareness about the importance of cinema in Africa and the world. In its eleventh edition, the LAFF screened 45 films from 35 countries in the competitive segments. The LAFF is organised by the Independent Shabab Foundation with the support of the Egyptian ministries of culture, tourism and antiquities. LAFF also takes place in cooperation with Luxor governorate, the Film Syndicate, and numerous sponsors. Search Keywords: Short link: Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed met senior leaders of the Tigray region forces on Friday for the first time since they signed a peace deal with the national government ending two years of war, the state-run broadcaster said. PM Abiy and other officials met today and held a discussion with the TPLF delegation regarding the progress of the peace process, the Ethiopian Broadcasting Corporation said on its Twitter account. As a result, PM Abiy passed decisions about increasing flights, banking and other issues that would boost trust and ease the lives of civilians. The Addis Ababa government and forces of the Tigray Peoples Liberation Front (TPLF) signed agreements in November to permanently cease hostilities, ending fighting that killed tens thousands and displaced millions. Fridays meeting was Abiys first with senior administrators of the northern Tigray region since the fighting broke out. The war was rooted in old territorial and other grievances between the political elites of Tigray and other regions, built up over decades of turmoil, violent regime change and long periods of authoritarian rule. SOURCE: REUTERS Gibraltar on Friday accused Spain of a gross violation of British sovereignty after two customs officials entered the British overseas territory during an anti-smuggling operation. Early on Thursday, two Spanish customs agents were injured after rocks were thrown at them on a Gibraltar beach. Their small boat had lost power while chasing suspected tobacco smugglers, according to Spanish media reports. In a video of the incident on Spanish daily El Pais website, the smugglers are seen shouting This is Gibraltar. This is not your job! Other videos on social media appear to show shots fired during the altercation, but it is not clear who fired them. In a statement on Friday, Gibraltars Chief Minister Fabian Picardo said: The evidence surrounding this incident discloses a gross violation of British sovereignty and, potentially, the most serious and dangerous incident for many years. He said Gibraltar needed to investigate the facts before deciding on what diplomatic response to take, but added the events indicate that the actions by the Spanish officials are intolerable. The governments of Gibraltar and the United Kingdom consider that the events will require careful consideration as to the nature and level of diplomatic response, the Gibraltar government statement said. Should it be confirmed that Spanish officials discharged their weapons in Gibraltar, this would be a very serious breach of the law as well as being reckless and dangerous, it added. Spains foreign ministry on Friday condemned the attack on the customs agents, who had suffered serious injuries and said it categorically rejects the terms of the statement issued by Gibraltar, as well as the claims of alleged British sovereignty over the territory and waters of Gibraltar contained within it. The incident comes as Britain and Gibraltar seek to negotiate a treaty to settle Gibraltars post-Brexit status and how to police the border with Spain. This has been a point of contention since Britains 2016 vote to leave the European Union. The peninsula was excluded from the exit deal reached between Britain and the EU. In mid January, Spains Foreign Affairs Minister Jose Manuel Albares told Reuters Madrid and London were very close to a deal on the issue. Spain ceded the rocky outpost at the mouth of the Mediterranean Sea to Britain in 1713 but has long called for it to be returned. In 2002, 99% of voters in Gibraltar rejected the idea of Britain sharing sovereignty with Spain. SOURCE: REUTERS Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and the visiting Iranian foreign minister discussed the need for "vigilance in defending their national interests against external pressures," according to a statement released Saturday. The Caracas visit Friday by Foreign Minister Ossein Amir-Abdollahian underlined the strength of an alliance between two countries seen as outcasts by much of the international community, both of them subject to US sanctions. "I am sure that our relations will continue to strengthen for technological, industrial, scientific and cultural exchanges that benefit both peoples," Maduro wrote on Twitter, calling the meeting "productive." Maduro received Abdollahian on Friday evening in the Miraflores presidential palace after the Iranian minister arrived from Managua, Nicaragua. On a visit to Tehran last June, Maduro signed a 20-year pact which he said opened "major fronts" for cooperation in the petroleum, petrochemical and defense sectors. On Friday, the two parties "emphasized the strengthening and monitoring of projects and accelerating their implementation, as well as vigilance in defending their national interests against external pressures," a statement from the Iranian Foreign Ministry said. "The parties also welcomed the increase in relations and exchange of views between the officials of the two countries," it said. Both Venezuela and Iran are oil producers and members of the OPEC cartel, placing them in the middle of international discussions on the energy crisis sparked by Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The United States has since eased its embargo on Venezuelan crude oil, while France has called for a diversification of energy sources, including from Caracas. The growing Venezuelan-Iranian relationship has led to exchanges of medical equipment, vehicles, tractors and more. And the Maduro government has offered five million hectares (12.4 million acres) for agricultural investment by countries including Iran. Search Keywords: Short link: [February 03, 2023] Accutar Biotechnology Announces FDA Clearance of IND Application for Phase 1 Trial of AC0676 in B-cell Malignancies Accutar Biotechnology, Inc., a biotechnology company focusing on artificial intelligence (AI)-empowered drug discovery, today announced that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has cleared the company's investigational new drug application (IND) for AC0676 for the treatment of patients with relapsed/refractory B-cell malignancies. AC0676 is an orally bioavailable, chimeric degrader molecule designed to target and degrade Bruton's Tyrosine Kinase (BTK) with high potency, selectivity, and broad mutant coverage. BTK plays a crucial role in the B-cell receptor (BCR) signaling pathway, and its constitutive activation is essential to the pathophysiology of many B-cell malignancies. Accutar expects to begin enrollment of a Phase 1 clinical trial for AC0676 in the beginning of the second quarter of 2023. "The IND clearance for AC0676 is another important validation that our protein crystallography and AI platforms can support and advane the discovery of potentially differentiated clinical candidates quickly, especially complex compounds such as chimeric degraders. It marks Accutar as the first company to successfully bring oral chimeric degraders against three different targets into clinics," said Jie Fan, Ph.D., Chief Executive Officer, Accutar Biotechnology, Inc. "The IND clearance for AC0676 is also critical towards offering a potential new treatment option for B-cell malignancies based on a differentiated mechanism of action from covalent and non-covalent BTK inhibitors by removing both kinase and scaffolding functions of BTK. We look forward to the clinical benefit that AC0676 treatment can potentially provide to patients." The Phase 1 study will assess the safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics, and preliminary anti-tumor activity of AC0676 treatment in patients with relapsed/refractory B-cell malignancies. About AC0676 AC0676 is an investigational orally bioavailable, chimeric degrader of Bruton's Tyrosine Kinase (BTK) for the potential treatment of relapsed/refractory B-cell malignancies. In preclinical studies, AC0676 has demonstrated potent and selective BTK protein degradation with broad coverage of BTK wildtype and mutants (including C481S, L528W, and others), favorable pharmacological properties, as well as promising anti-tumor activities in animal models. About Accutar Biotechnology, Inc. Accutar is a clinical stage biotech company focused on AI-empowered drug discovery, and its application to the discovery and development of clinically differentiated medicines. Be transformative. For patients. To learn more about Accutar, please visit us at www.accutarbio.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230203005452/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [February 03, 2023] SILVERGATE DEADLINE ALERT: Bragar Eagel & Squire, P.C. Reminds Investors that a Class Action Lawsuit Has Been Filed Against Silvergate Capital Corporation and Encourages Investors to Contact the Firm Bragar Eagel & Squire, P.C., a nationally recognized stockholder rights law firm, reminds investors that a class action lawsuit has been filed against Silvergate Capital Corporation ("Silvergate" or the "Company") (NYSE: SI) in the United States District Court of Southern California on behalf of all persons and entities who purchased or otherwise acquired Silvergate securities pursuant to the January 20, 2021 SPO; in connection with the December 6, 2021 SPO; and/or from November 9, 2021 to January 5, 2023, both dates inclusive (the "Class Period"). Investors have until February 6, 2023 to apply to the Court to be appointed as lead plaintiff in the lawsuit. Click here to participate in the action. Silvergate is a digital currency company. Its platform, the Silvergate Exchange Network ("SEN"), provides payments, lending, and funding solutions for an expanding class of digital currency companies and investors. Silvergate is also the parent company of Silvergate Bank which provides financial services that include commercial banking, commercial and residential real estate lending, mortgage warehouse lending, and commercial business lending. On November 15, 2022, Marcus Aurelius Research tweeted that "Recently subpoenaed Silvergate bank records reveal $425 million in transfers from $SI crypto bank accounts to South American money launderers. Affidavit from investigation into crypto crime ring linked to smugglers/drug traffickers." On this news, the Company's Class common stock price fell $6.13, or 17%, to close at $29.36 per share on November 15, 2022, on unusually heavy trading volume. On November 17, 2022, The Bear Cave newsletter released an article about several companies with potential exposure to recently collapsed cryptocurrency exchange FTX, including Silvergate. The article highlighted the connection linking Silvergate to a money laundering operation that transferred $425 million off cryptocurrency trading platforms. On this news, the Company's Class A common stock price fell $3.00, or 10.7%, to close at $24.90 per share on November 18, 2022, on unusually heavy trading volume. Throughout the Class Period, Defendants made materially false and/or misleading statements, as well as failed to disclose material adverse facts about the Company's business, operations, and prospects. Specifically, Defendants failed to disclose to investors: (1) that the Company's platform lacked sufficient controls and procedures to detect instances of money laundering; (2) that Silvergate's customers had engaged in money laundering in amounts exceeding $425 million; (3) that, as a result of the foregoing, the Company was reasonably likely to receive regulatory scrutiny and face damages, including penalties and reputational harm; and (4) that, as a result of the foregoing, Defendant's positive statements about the Company's business, operations, and prospects were materially misleading and/or lacked a reasonable basis. If you purchased or otherwise acquired Silvergate shares and suffered a loss, are a long-term stockholder, have information, would like to learn more about these claims, or have any questions concerning this announcement or your rights or interests with respect to these matters, please contact Brandon Walker or Melissa Fortunato by email at [email protected], telephone at (212) 355-4648, or by filling out this contact form. There is no cost or obligation to you. About Bragar Eagel & Squire, P.C.: Bragar Eagel & Squire, P.C. is a nationally recognized law firm with offices in New York, California, and South Carolina. The firm represents individual and institutional investors in commercial, securities, derivative, and other complex litigation in state and federal courts across the country. For more information about the firm, please visit www.bespc.com. Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230203005013/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] Good work team . . . Our KICK-ASS TKC BLOG COMMUNITY complaints about swagger jacking the Citizens Association title AND the overall FOOLISHNESS of this trip down memory lane seemingly spoiled the fun and offered an ALTERNATIVE to a great deal of misguided municipal hype. Still . . . In fairness, we always offer a glimpse at the other side . . . "Nick Haines moderates a conversation with the last four former mayors of Kansas City on the stage of the Truman Auditorium of the Plaza Library. Emanuel Cleaver (1991-1999), Kay Barnes (1999-2007), Mark Funkhouser (2007-2011) and Sly James (2011-2019) discuss their roles in Kansas City's progress and expectations for the future." Read more via www.TonysKansasCity.com link . . . Fifteen per cent of homeowners have yet to fill out the required form, and risk having their properties declared vacant. Six out of 10 Koreans now have at least one meal a day on their own, and that increases the risk of obesity. The findings come from analysis by Lee Haeng-shin at the Korea Health Industry Development Institute of public health data by the Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention from 2013 to 2015. Lee found that 36.3 percent Koreans eat breakfast alone, 25 percent lunch and 19.1 percent dinner. Some 63.2 percent had at least one meal per day alone, while 52 percent of singles eat all three meals alone. Obesity among people who ate all three meals alone was 34.7 percent, 1.4 times higher than the 24.9 percent among those who ate all three meals in company. Many lonely eaters live an isolated life, so it is hard to break the pattern. European Union officials pledged their unwavering support Friday to help Ukraine rebuild its infrastructure against Russia's ongoing war, while the U.S. announced a fresh round of security assistance worth more than $2 billion. Charles Michel, president of the European Council, and Ursula von der Leyen, president of the European Commission, met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Kyiv for the 24th EU-Ukraine Summit. The EU officials said the union will support Ukraine "for as long as it takes." In a joint statement Friday, the officials promised to help rebuild Ukraine's devastated critical infrastructure, providing energy support and services for the country "to get through the winter," and beyond. They said that so far, the EU and its member states have provided assistance worth $570 million in the area of energy and reconstruction, and another $525 million for humanitarian efforts. The officials underscored their commitment to promote Ukraine's integration in the European Union, but they said there was no promise of fast-track membership. Kyiv applied to become an EU member shortly after Russia's invasion and wants to start formal accession talks as soon as possible. "There are no rigid timelines, but there are goals that you have to reach," von der Leyen told the news conference in response to a question about Ukraine's accession drive. One of the conditions for Ukraine's EU integration is its fight against corruption. The EU Commission president praised Kyiv for its expanded efforts to clamp down on graft. Michel and von der Leyen condemned Russia's escalating war against Ukraine and its citizens as "a manifest violation of international law, including the principles of the UN Charter." They emphasized the need to establish a Special Tribunal at The Hague for the investigation and prosecution of war crimes against Ukraine. They also emphasized that the EU will never recognize as lawful any illegal annexation of Ukraine by Russia. In addition, the EU officials unveiled a new package of sanctions, the 10th, against Russia. It will target the trade and technology that supports its war against Ukraine, von der Leyen said. "With our partners, we must deny Russia the means to kill Ukrainian civilians and destroy homes and offices," she said in a tweet. By Christine Tjandraningsih and Puy Kea, KYODO NEWS - Feb 4, 2023 - 22:02 | World, All All sides in Myanmar have begun engaging in talks with ASEAN's special envoy over dealing with the Southeast Asian country's political crisis more than two years after the country's military junta orchestrated a coup and seized power, ASEAN's chair said Saturday. After wrapping up the Southeast Asian foreign ministers' annual retreat talks, Indonesian Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi told reporters that Indonesia has proposed an implementation plan based on the so-called five-point consensus, agreed upon at a special ASEAN summit in April 2021 that was attended by Myanmar junta leader Senior Gen. Min Aung Hlain. "Broad support has been given by all member states for this plan," Retno said, calling the proposal a key step toward "addressing the situation in Myanmar in a united manner." The Association of Southeast Asian Nations has said they want to engage with all stakeholders in Myanmar, including the junta and the country's democracy icon Aung San Suu Kyi, to seek a political solution. The junta, however, has so far denied access to ASEAN's special envoy, preventing them from meeting other relevant stakeholders. Sidharto Suryodipuro, director general for ASEAN cooperation under Retno's office, separately said engagement has "already started with all stakeholders" on Myanmar, and that other ASEAN members "are united behind Indonesia." A statement issued afterward by Retno said that the foreign ministers of ASEAN member states jointly "urge that significant progress be made in the implementation of the five-point consensus to pave the way for an inclusive national dialogue in Myanmar," as doing so will be "key to finding a peaceful resolution to the situation in Myanmar." The ministers themselves, however, failed to reach an agreement over issuing a joint statement on the second anniversary of the coup. An ASEAN diplomatic source told Kyodo News that the foreign ministers of member states have been divided on whether to include the name of Suu Kyi, currently detained by the military regime, in the envisioned stand-alone statement. Myanmar, one of the 10 ASEAN members, boycotted the gathering after the regional group stuck to its decision reached two years ago to allow only a nonpolitical representative from the country. The exclusion of the junta's leader and junta-appointed ministers from ASEAN meetings is part of the regional body's attempt to coax them into implementing a series of steps agreed upon shortly after they seized power, to find a peaceful solution to the political crisis. But few, if any, of the steps laid out in the five-point consensus have been implemented so far. One step calls for dialogue between all relevant parties including Suu Kyi, after her democratically elected government was toppled by the military. The retreat is part of a two-day ministerial meeting taking place through Saturday. On Wednesday's coup anniversary, Myanmar's ruling military extended "state of emergency" measures, implemented by the junta after taking power, for another six months, signaling it has no desire to relinquish power anytime soon. Extending the state of emergency measures enables the junta to postpone a general election previously scheduled for August 2023 until February the following year. During the retreat, the ministers, according to Retno, also discussed a proposed "code of conduct" agreement in the South China Sea currently being drawn up by ASEAN and China to help avert confrontation in the region, with further negotiations -- the first to take place under Indonesia's chairmanship -- slated for March. "The commitment of members to conclude the code of conduct negotiations as soon as possible is clear, bearing in mind the need to have a substantive, effective and actionable agreement," she said. Some ASEAN member states have been locked in disputes with China over territory in the South China Sea for several years since Beijing began rapidly building artificial islands with military infrastructure in the region, home to some of the world's busiest sea lanes, claiming sovereignty over almost the entire maritime area. On East Timor's accession, Sidharto said a road map is being deliberated by a working group on East Timor involving steps that must be taken by the country to facilitate its full participation in ASEAN's affairs. The road map is expected to be ratified during the ASEAN Summit in November. Currently, East Timor is an ASEAN observer state after its admission for membership was accepted in principle by ASEAN member states last year. ASEAN consists of Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam. (Sepsha Dewi Restiananingsih contributed to this story from Jakarta) Related coverage: Special meeting between ASEAN, Myanmar junta leader sought: source Myanmar extends state of emergency as nation marks 2 years since coup As of April 1, Twitter is requiring a paid subscription to Twitter Blue to have a verificati Read moreMain Point: Verification doesnt equal credibility KYODO NEWS - Feb 4, 2023 - 00:24 | World, All Indonesia is seeking to hold a special meeting between ASEAN leaders and the head of Myanmar's military junta amid a lack of progress toward the member country's return to democratic rule after a coup two years ago, an ASEAN diplomatic source said Friday. Indonesia has sent a senior military officer to Myanmar to share experience in transitioning from rule by the armed forces to democratic government, with President Joko Widodo planning to visit the fellow Southeast Asian country in the near future, a separate diplomatic source said. The move comes as Indonesia hosts a two-day meeting of foreign ministers from countries that comprise the Association of Southeast Asian Nations through Saturday, showing signs of a possible change in Jakarta's hardline policy in dealing with the junta. "There is a possibility of a special meeting between ASEAN leaders and Min Aung Hlaing," the ASEAN diplomatic source told Kyodo News, referring to the military leader who led the coup on Feb. 1, 2021, ousting the democratically elected government of de facto leader Aung San Suu Kyi. Discussions are ongoing about the special meeting, the source added, with no date or venue yet being decided. But Indonesia plans to host a regional summit in May and September as this year's ASEAN chair. Following the coup, ASEAN has excluded the junta's leader and junta-appointed ministers from its meetings in an attempt to coax them into implementing a series of steps that were agreed upon shortly after they seized power, with the aim of finding a peaceful solution to the political crisis. But few, if any, of the steps laid out in the so-called five-point consensus, reached at a special ASEAN summit in April 2021 that was attended by Min Aung Hlaing, have been implemented. One of the steps includes dialogue between all related parties including Suu Kyi, who remains in detention. Last year, Thailand hosted a meeting of ASEAN foreign ministers, inviting Myanmar. Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam and Myanmar's military junta sent representatives, but Indonesia and four other nations refused to attend. According to the source, Indonesia may be changing its hard-line policy as ASEAN chair in a bid to seek an immediate solution to the junta's prolonged rule. Asked about the possible special ASEAN meeting, Sidharto Suryodipuro, the Indonesian Foreign Ministry's director general for ASEAN cooperation, said, "This is the first time I've heard about a special meeting." On Wednesday's second anniversary of the coup, Myanmar's ruling military extended "state of emergency" measures, implemented by the junta after taking power, for another six months, signaling it has no desire to relinquish its power any time soon. Extending the state of emergency measures enables the junta to postpone a general election previously scheduled for August 2023 until February the following year. ASEAN consists of Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam. Related coverage: Myanmar extends state of emergency as nation marks 2 years since coup U.N. urges Myanmar to free Suu Kyi in 1st resolution since coup ASEAN exposes divisions over political crisis in Myanmar Southeast Asian foreign ministers urged Myanmar's military rulers Friday to reduce violence and allow unhindered delivery of humanitarian aid to pave the way for a national dialogue aimed at ending the country's worsening crisis. Meeting in Indonesia's capital, the ministers from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations also granted observer status to East Timor, Asia's newest nation, ahead of it becoming the regional bloc's 11th member. Myanmar is an ASEAN member, but its foreign minister was excluded from Friday's annual ministers' retreat because of his country's failure to implement a five-step consensus on restoring peace forged in 2021 between ASEAN and Myanmar's military leader, Senior Gen. Min Aung Hlaing. Indonesian Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi, who hosted Friday's meetings, said the ministers agreed that an inclusive national dialogue is key to finding a peaceful resolution to the situation in Myanmar, and that reducing violence and providing humanitarian assistance are paramount for building trust and confidence. She said the lack of progress in Myanmar tests our credibility as a group, and that ASEAN's efforts toward peace would be coordinated with those of other countries and the United Nations. Myanmar's military leader promised in the five-point agreement to allow a special ASEAN envoy to meet with jailed ousted leader Aung San Suu Kyi and others to foster a dialogue aimed at easing the crisis, set off by the military's seizure of power two years ago. But Myanmar refused to let an ASEAN envoy meet with Suu Kyi last year, resulting in Min Aung Hlaing's exclusion from an ASEAN summit last November. The increasing violence in Myanmar since the military takeover loomed large over the foreign ministers' meetings, even as Indonesia, this year's ASEAN chair, sought to dampen concerns that the crisis will overshadow other issues and hold the bloc hostage. In her opening remarks, Marsudi said the ministers were meeting in the midst of immense global challenges in which the Indo-Pacific region is not immune, including geopolitical, food, energy, financial and ecological crises, as well as major power rivalries that could spill over and potentially destabilize the region. The ministers warmly applauded the East Timor delegation as it participated in an ASEAN ministerial meeting for the first time. It is a crucial steppingstone in our long journey to join the big family of the ASEAN community, East Timor Foreign Minister Adaljiza Magno said. ASEAN agreed in principle to admit East Timor as the group's 11th member at last November's ASEAN summit. East Timor applied for full membership in ASEAN in 2011, but some members feared its poverty would be a burden and slow efforts to achieve an ASEAN Economic Community. The U.N. estimates that nearly half of East Timor's population lives below the extreme poverty line of $1.90 a day, and that 42 of every 1,000 babies die before their fifth birthday because of malnutrition. The former Portuguese colony was occupied by Indonesia for a quarter-century and gained independence after a U.N.-sponsored referendum in 1999. Indonesia's military responded with scorched-earth attacks that devastated East Timor. As it marks World Cancer Day, the World Health Organization is calling for action to tackle breast cancer, the most common and leading cause of cancer deaths among women. Every year, more than 2.3 million women are diagnosed with breast cancer, and nearly 700,000 die of the disease, which disproportionately affects women living in low- and middle-income countries. WHO officials say women who live in poorer countries are far less likely to survive breast cancer than women in richer countries. Breast cancer survival is 50 percent or less in many low- and middle-income countries, and greater than 90 percent for those able to receive the best care in high income countries, says Bente Mikkelsen, director of the Noncommunicable Diseases Department at the WHO. She says the odds are stacked against women who live in poor countries, noting many must sell their assets to pay for the treatment they need. She notes that women also are discouraged from seeking and receiving a timely diagnosis for their condition because of the stigma attached to breast cancer. A woman subjected to racial and ethnic disparities will receive lower quality care and be forced to abandon treatment, she says. WHO data show more than 20 high income countries have successfully reduced breast cancer mortality by 40 percent since 1990. It finds five-year survival rates from breast cancer in North America and western Europe is better than 95 percent, compared to 66 percent in India and 40 percent in South Africa. Mikkelsen says by closing the rich-poor inequity gap, some 2.5 million lives could be saved over the next two decades. Time is, unfortunately, not on our side. Breast cancer will be a larger public health threat for tomorrow, and the gap in care will continue to grow. She says that by the year 2040, more than 3 million cases and 1 million deaths are predicted to occur each year worldwide. Approximately 75 percent of these deaths will occur in low- and middle-income countries. Coinciding with World Cancer Day, the WHO is launching a global breast cancer initiative to tackle the looming threat. The initiative contains a series of best practices for addressing this significant public health issue. The strategy rests on three main pillars: early-detection programs so at least 60 percent of breast cancers are diagnosed and treated as an early-stage disease; starting treatment within three months of diagnosis; managing breast cancer to ensure at least 80 percent of patients complete their recommended treatment. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the director-general of the WHO, says, Countries with weaker health systems are least able to manage the increasing burden of breast cancer so, it must be a priority for ministries of health and governments everywhere. We have the tools and the knowhow to prevent breast cancer and save lives, he says. Benjamin Anderson, medical officer and lead of the WHOs global breast cancer initiative, says one of the best ways to implement the initiative is through primary health care systems. The patient pathway is the basis of the three pillars of the global cancer initiative framework. What we anticipate is that by using awareness, education in the public, combined with professional education, it sets us up for the diagnostic processes that must take place and the treatment that has to follow. The World Health Organization warns failure to act now to address cancer in women, including breast cancer, will have serious intergenerational consequences. It cites a study by the International Agency for Research on Cancer that reported that because of the estimated 4.4 million women who died from cancer in 2020, about 1 million children became maternal orphans in that year, 25 percent of which was due to breast cancer. Mikkelsen observes, the children whose mothers die from cancer experience health and educational disadvantages throughout their lives. WHO officials acknowledge the cost of drugs to treat breast cancer could be a matter of life or death. It notes the price of certain oral drugs is less than $1, while others range from $9,000 to $10,000. As many countries are unable to negotiate prices, they say the WHO is working to increase the availability and affordability of breast cancer medication. What in the world is that thing? The massive white orb drifting across U.S. airspace has triggered a diplomatic maelstrom and is blowing up on social media. China insists the balloon is just an errant civilian airship used mainly for meteorological research that went off course due to winds and has only limited self-steering capabilities. The United States says it is a Chinese spy balloon without a doubt. Its presence prompted Secretary of State Antony Blinken to cancel a weekend trip to China that was aimed at dialing down tensions that were already high between the countries. The Pentagon says the balloon, which is carrying sensors and surveillance equipment, is maneuverable and has shown it can change course. It has loitered over sensitive areas of Montana where nuclear warheads are siloed, leading the military to take actions to prevent it from collecting intelligence. A Pentagon spokesman said it could remain aloft over the U.S. for a few days, extending uncertainty about where it will go or if the U.S. will try to safely take it down. And late Friday, the Defense Department acknowledged reports of a balloon flying over Latin America assessed as another Chinese surveillance balloon. A look at whats known about the balloon crossing the U.S. and what isnt. IT'S A BIRD, IT'S A PLANE, IT'S A ... SPY BALLOON The Pentagon and other U.S. officials say it's a Chinese spy balloon about the size of three school buses moving east over America at an altitude of about 60,000 feet (18,600 meters). The U.S. says it is being used for surveillance and intelligence collection, but officials have provided few details. U.S. officials say the Biden administration was aware of it even before it crossed into American airspace in Alaska early this past week. A number of officials spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss the sensitive topic. The White House said President Joe Biden was first briefed on the balloon on Tuesday. The State Department said Blinken and Deputy Secretary Wendy Sherman spoke with China's senior Washington-based official on Wednesday evening about the matter. In the first public U.S. statement, Brig. Gen. Pat Ryder, the Pentagon press secretary, said Thursday evening that the balloon was not a military or physical threat an acknowledgement that it was not carrying weapons. He said, "Once the balloon was detected, the U.S. government acted immediately to protect against the collection of sensitive information. Even if the balloon is not armed, it poses a risk to the U.S., said retired Army Gen. John Ferrari, a visiting fellow at the American Enterprise Institute. The flight itself, he said, can be used to test America's ability to detect incoming threats and to find holes in the country's air defense warning system. It may also allow the Chinese to sense electromagnetic emissions that higher-altitude satellites cannot detect, such as low-power radio frequencies that could help them understand how different U.S. weapons systems communicate. He said the Chinese may have sent the balloon to show us that they can do it, and maybe next time it could have a weapon. So, now we have to spend money and time on it developing defenses. Dozens of Russian and Ukrainian prisoners of war have returned home following a prisoner swap, officials on both sides said Saturday. Top Ukrainian presidential aide Andriy Yermak said in a Telegram post that 116 Ukrainians were freed. He said the released POWs include troops who held out in Mariupol during Moscows monthslong siege that reduced the southern port city to ruins, as well as guerrilla fighters from the Kherson region and snipers captured during the ongoing fierce battles for the eastern city of Bakhmut. Russian defense officials, meanwhile, announced that 63 Russian troops had returned from Ukraine following the swap, including some special category prisoners whose release was secured following mediation by the United Arab Emirates. A statement issued Saturday by the Russian Defense Ministry did not provide details about these special category captives. At least three civilians have been killed in Ukraine over the past 24 hours as Russian forces struck nine regions in the countrys south, north and east, according to reports on Ukrainian TV by regional governors on Saturday morning. Two people were killed, and 14 others wounded in Ukraines eastern Donetsk region by Russian shelling and missile strikes, local Governor Pavlo Kyrylenko said in a Telegram update on Saturday morning. The casualties included a man who was killed and seven others who were wounded Friday after Russian missiles slammed into Toretsk, a town in the Donetsk region. Kyrylenko said that 34 houses, two kindergartens, an outpatient clinic, a library, a cultural center and other buildings were damaged in the strike. Seven teenagers received shrapnel wounds after an anti-personnel mine exploded late Friday in the northeastern city of Izium, local Governor Oleh Syniehubov said on Telegram. He said they were all hospitalized but their lives were not in danger. Elsewhere, regional Ukrainian officials reported overnight shelling by Russia of border settlements in the northern Sumy region, as well as the town of Marhanets, which neighbors the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant. Kyiv has long accused Moscow of using the plant, which Russian forces seized early in the war, as a base for launching attacks on Ukrainian-held territory across the Dnieper River. A funeral for a Belarusian military volunteer and activist who died fighting on the frontlines in eastern Ukraine was held Saturday in Kyiv. Eduard Lobau was killed in fierce artillery battles in Vuhledar against Russian troops as part of a small but dynamic regiment of Belarusian dissidents fighting alongside the Ukrainian armed forces. His body will be taken to Warsaw for burial. Russian troops have ramped up attacks in the east of Ukraine, particularly in the industrial towns of Bakhmut and Vuhledar. Moscow has said its main goal is to capture the eastern Donetsk province which it considers a part of Russia. Lobau is the latest casualty of the Kalinowsky Regiment, the unit named after a prominent Belarusian revolutionary who initiated an uprising against imperial Russia in the late 1800s. Volunteers oppose Belarusian authoritarian leader Alexander Lukashenko, a close ally of Russia. They believe Ukraines victory over Russia will spur regime change in Minsk. This is a very special regiment, consisting only of Belarusians. This is not their country, this is not their nation, but its their war, said Bohdan Yaremenko, a lawmaker in Ukraines parliament who attended the funeral. I am here as a sign of my support, and of my solidarity from my heart to theirs. Olena Kharkhel, held a portrait of Lobau in the church as his comrades paid their last respects. Her husband, also a Belarusian dissident, died fighting in the east with the regiment in June. He and Lobau had been good friends. By fighting against Russia, we can liberate Belarus from Lukashenkos regime, she said. One by one, the volunteers walked to Lobaus coffin, draped with the Belarusian flag to pay their last respects in Kyivs Cathedral of St. Alexander. Most covered their faces to conceal their identities. Lobau served four years of jail time for acts of disobedience in his native Belarus in 2010. Following his release in 2014 he fled to Ukraine and joined the armed forces as a military volunteer. Belarusians make up a prominent contingent of foreign fighters in Ukraine. Russias invasion of Ukraine propelled them to mobilize. The regiment itself was formalized in March 2022 and has been active in numerous key battles from the early days of the war, including in Mykolaiv, Kherson and the defense of Bucha and Irpin. Lobau participated in the latter. We can say he spent his entire life defending high ideals and sacrificing for others, said friend and fellow volunteer Jan Melnikov. Logistics manager Nicholas Rehak was visiting his parents' home in Baltimore County, Maryland, several years ago. He was standing on the back deck one night when he noticed a bluish white light. "It was shaped in a damn near perfect oval and it started to rise," Rehak told VOA. "I'm talking straight up vertical, no deviation. It sat there for nearly 30 seconds and then suddenly it vanished like a lamp when someone pulls the plug. Just sudden darkness." Perhaps it was a drone. Rehak said that was his first thought. "But I've never seen a drone take off perfectly vertical like that, from ground to sky without so much as a wobble," he continued. "It was far too low to the ground to be a larger aircraft. So what was it? If I close my eyes, I can still see the light plain as day." For decades, Americans have reported sighting unidentified flying objects commonly referred to as UFOs zigging, zagging and hovering in the sky. Many were ridiculed for their assertions. Now, however, the U.S. government is tracking and studying reports of what they refer to as unidentified aerial phenomena (UAP). More than 350 new cases have been reported to the government since March 2021, according to an unclassified document released last month by the Office of the Director of National Intelligence. That number far exceeds what was reported over the 17 years prior, suggesting either a dramatic increase in sightings or a greater willingness to report them. "It's no longer embarrassing to talk about," said Steve Mort, a New Orleans, Louisiana, resident. "I've always known true extraterrestrial UAPs exist they're likely our ancestors checking back in on us. The only thing I'm shocked by is that the government is officially confirming this." The January report, however, cautions against making such conclusions. While approximately half of the 366 reported UAP sightings remain unexplained, the ODNI wrote its "initial characterization does not mean positively resolved or unidentified." In other words, the U.S. government says it does not know what many of the mysterious objects are. And while the Department of Defense and NASA are taking steps to investigate UAPs, an impatient and imaginative American public is debating the mystery on its own. Extraterrestrial life Many in the scientific community say there is nothing particularly unusual about the steps the government is taking. This includes American astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson. "If there's something in your night sky and you don't know what it is, maybe it's harmful, right?" Tyson said, speaking with VOA. "Well, investigating that potential harm is the entire mission statement of the military." "It's nothing deeper than that," he continued, "other than there are many people out there who wish it was something deeper despite having a lack of evidence to prove it." While there is a wide variety of opinions on whether extraterrestrial life has visited Earth, there appears to be a consensus that life likely exists beyond Earth. According to a survey conducted by the Pew Research Center in June 2021, 65% of Americans say they believe intelligent life exists on other planets. "Each time we build a bigger telescope, we discover more and more galaxies in our ever-expanding universe," said Robert Sheaffer, an author and investigator of UAPs. "Our universe is so unimaginably vast, it would be foolish to claim there are no other planets with life, or with intelligent civilizations." Differing conclusions Americans as a whole appear divided on whether UAPs are extraterrestrial spacecraft visiting our planet. But the percentage who do believe in alien visitation has grown. A YouGov survey last September found 34% of Americans believe UFOs are alien ships or alien life forms. An equal percentage said they didn't know what accounts for UFOs while 32% believed they had a natural scientific explanation. In a similar survey by Newsweek/Princeton in 1996, only 20% of Americans believed UFOs were evidence of extraterrestrial life while 51% said they could be explained by natural science. Tyler Ogilvie, a musician from Syracuse, New York, said he recently spotted a mysterious spacecraft zooming overhead. "I was legitimately convinced I was seeing something mystical or otherworldly," he told VOA. "It was incredible until a sobering Google search proved otherwise. It turned out I was looking at Elon Musk's Starlink [a series of satellites launched by SpaceX to provide broader internet access]." "But I think it's a valuable experience," Ogilvie added. "I learned how quickly the human mind can be convinced of something that it wants to believe is true. I want to believe it because I think it would make more sense out of our seemingly meaningless existence if we could put it into the perspective of the universe as a whole." Others agree. "I think we don't want to be alone," Nicholas Rehak said. "It gives me goosebumps to dream of what might be out there," said Carl Fink, a software developer in New Orleans, "and contemplating the cosmos helps me consider the possibility of things I couldn't previously imagine." Tyson said imagining life in other parts of the universe is part of a longer trend in human history. "We used to think our planet was the center of the cosmos, but then through the help of Galileo and others we learned we orbit a sun," the astrophysicist explained. "But at least everything in the universe orbited our sun until we learned it didn't. We'd go on to learn that other stars in the galaxy have their own planets, and that, in fact, there are hundreds of billions of other galaxies in our universe and we're not at the center of anything." He added, "It's good for our ego to understand that the universe literally doesn't revolve around us and that we're probably not the only life form out there." 'Where is the evidence?' Are the UAPs being reported to the U.S. government in record numbers proof that alien life forms are finally reaching out? Tyson is a skeptic. "You're telling me that a million humans are airborne at any given time with cellphones that can take photos and capture video and none of us have gotten clearer footage of these supposed alien spacecraft?" he said. "We have the technology to livestream these encounters, so where is the evidence? I know, I know. Everyone wants to meet the aliens, but for me and I don't want to stop anyone from investigating the lights in the sky, of course there's not enough evidence of visiting aliens to pique my interest." The Pentagon office responsible for tracking and studying sightings has preliminarily identified 163 of the recent reports as "balloon or balloon entities" while others have been attributed to weather events, birds, drones, or airborne debris such as plastic bags. Still, 171 other reported sightings since March 2021 remain unexplained. Are they aliens? Foreign governments spying on America? Secret U.S. weapons tests? "UAPs can be anything," said Emily Songster, a music teacher in Asheville, North Carolina. "But imagining the possibility of life on other planets coming to visit us makes for a more fun and interesting world. I think that's why many people look to aliens for answers and, personally, I'm glad we're beginning to officially take these things seriously." A bipartisan group of leading U.S. lawmakers has nominated Jimmy Lai and five other Hong Kong democracy advocates for the Nobel Peace Prize. The six nominees "are representative of millions of Hong Kongers who peacefully opposed the steady erosion of the city's democratic freedoms" by both the Hong Kong government, widely seen as taking orders from Beijing, and the government of the People's Republic of China, the U.S. lawmakers said in a press release Thursday. Congressman Chris Smith (R-NJ), Senator Jeff Merkley (D-OR), together with Congressman James P. McGovern (D-MA) and Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL), nominated Lai, Cardinal Joseph Zen, Tonyee Chow Hang-tung, Gwyneth Ho, Lee Cheuk-Yan and Joshua Wong. The legislators described the six as "ardent champions of Hong Kong's autonomy, human rights, and the rule of law as guaranteed under the Sino-British Declaration and International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights." Through the nomination, the four U.S. lawmakers, comprising the current and immediate past chair and co-chair of the Congressional-Executive Commission on China, or CECC, say they seek to honor "all those in Hong Kong whose bravery and determination in the face of repression has inspired the world." Liu Xiaobo, so far, is the only Chinese person to be awarded a Nobel Peace Prize, in 2010. Liu was imprisoned at the time his absence at the award ceremony, represented by an empty chair and he became a symbol of fundamental rights denied to Chinese citizens by their government. Wei Jingsheng, who spent a total of 18 years as a political prisoner in China and who himself has been nominated for the Peace Prize in the past, applauded the nomination, calling it "timely and just." "If these friends from Hong Kong are awarded the prize, it would be a huge inspiration and encouragement for the Chinese people" who, Wei says, believe in democracy, though many of them dare not speak their mind given the government's harsh control and punitive measures. During a phone interview on Friday, Wei said he admired the courage of the nominees, including former newspaper publisher Lai, who was charged under Hong Kong's controversial national security law in August 2020. Lai has been jailed since December of that year on a variety of charges, the latest being hes accused of having assisted 12 activists escape from Hong Kong, according to CECCs political prisoner database. Lai is expected to stand trial later this year on charges of colluding with foreign forces and sedition and, if convicted, could face life in prison. Wei fondly recalled meeting Lai, whom he describes as a kindred spirit, in 1998 when the publisher took him to meet the late American economist Milton Friedman at Friedman's home in the San Francisco area. Friedman was himself a Nobel laureate, having won the prize for Economics in 1976. "Li Zhiying [Lais name rendered in Mandarin] translated for me," Wei recalled. He said he and Lai, whose native tongue is Cantonese, did their best to communicate in Mandarin. Apple Daily, a newspaper founded by Jimmy Lai, served as a "pillar" for pro-democracy voices, including his own, Wei told VOA, recalling the columns he wrote for the paper in years past. The paper was closed in June 2021 after Hong Kong authorities seized its assets under the territory's controversial national security law. Wei also recalled meeting with Cardinal Zen, the most recent occasion being February 2020, when they both visited then-Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives Nancy Pelosi to discuss challenges to freedom in Hong Kong and China. Hong Kong authorities, widely seen as taking orders from Beijing, arrested the then 90-year-old former bishop of Hong Kong in May 2021, before releasing him on bail shortly after; his arrest caused an outcry at the time and was viewed as an indicator of just how far the authorities would go in their attempts to punish and intimidate advocates of democracy and freedom. Joshua Wong, born in 1996, is the youngest of the six nominees. He became known as one of the most outspoken voices of his generation, calling for freedom and autonomy in Hong Kong during the 2014 Umbrella protest movement. He later was arrested for his role in that movement. When he came out of jail, Wong continued to express solidarity with others struggling for freedom, and he refused to give up fundamental civil rights, including those of free speech and assembly. He was again arrested in 2021 and is currently serving another prison term. Indian business tycoon Gautam Adani is in the eye of a storm after a dramatic crash in the stocks of his companies. Adanis businesses have lost more than $100 billion after a U.S. investment firm, Hindenburg Research, alleged that the companies engaged in stock market manipulation and fraud. The Adani Group has called the allegations nothing but a lie. The rout faced by the Adani conglomerate, which spans such key areas as ports, power generation, airports, mining, and renewable power, has raised fears of a potential loss of investor confidence in Indias growing economy. It has also triggered a political storm, with opposition parties demanding a probe into the accusations of malpractice against a business figure perceived to have close ties to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The spectacular rise of the Adani empire over the last decade has catapulted Gautam Adani into the realm of the worlds wealthiest people. He was ranked as the worlds third richest, and Asias richest man by Forbes, behind Bernard Arnault and Elon Musk until late January. That ranking has tumbled since seven listed companies of the Adani group lost nearly half their market capitalization after Hindenburg raised doubts over the business practices of the conglomerate. In a report, it accused the group of artificially boosting share prices by funneling money into stocks through offshore tax havens. The report said the shares were overvalued and their prices had soared more than 800% in the past three years. Hindenburg is a small investment firm known as a short seller on Wall Street. The firm looks for corporate wrongdoing and makes money if stock prices of the company fall. Hindenburg said that the "brazen stock manipulation and accounting fraud by Adani Group was "the largest con in corporate history." It also said that substantial debt puts the group on a precarious financial footing. In a 413-page response, the Adani Group called the report baseless and a malicious combination of selective misinformation and stale, baseless and discredited allegations. It said the charges were driven by an ulterior motive to allow the U.S. firm to make financial gains. In a video message to investors Thursday, Adani said that the fundamentals of his group are "strong" and that its record on paying back debt was "impeccable. The Adani Group called the report an attack on the "growth story and ambition of India." Hindenburg countered by saying, Indias future is being held back by the Adani Group, which has draped itself in the Indian flag while systematically looting the nation. The controversy has turned a spotlight on the dizzying rise of the 60-year-old businessman, a college dropout from a middle-class family, who began as a commodities trader before expanding into infrastructure in the 1990s when he built a port in Gujarat state and made a foray into areas such as coal mining. Then came power plants, airports, roads and defense equipment, areas he said were in step with the countrys need for infrastructure. The group became one of the countrys top three conglomerates. He has also made investments overseas -- on Tuesday, even as the controversy raged, Adani stood with Israels Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, as he took control of Israels Haifa port, acquired for $1.2 billion. In 2011 he bought a large coal mining operation in Australia. Other investments are lined up in Sri Lanka. Adani hails from Gujarat state, which Modi headed as chief minister before arriving on the national stage in 2014. Critics point out that his dramatic expansion has coincided with Modis rule. From the time Modi was the chief minister of Gujarat, there were close ties with Adani at the personal level, said Nilanjan Mukhopadhyay, a political analyst who has written a book on Modi. However, I did not really look into their association at a business level. Adani has denied claims of any preferential treatment by Modis government. "These allegations are baseless," Adani told India Today television saying that their shared origins made him an "easy target" for such claims. "The fact of the matter is that my professional success is not because of any individual leader." For the time being, the group faces a crisis of confidence despite a marginal rally in its companies stocks on Friday. Adani has scrapped a $2.5 billion share offering that opened after the release of the Hindenburg report, saying he was doing it to insulate investors from potential losses, but that it would not affect his business. The share issue had been seen as a key sign of investor confidence. Although it found support from institutional investors and wealthy Indians, small retail investors had largely shunned it. Indian Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has said that she did not expect the controversy around Adani's business empire to affect investor confidence in India. India remains a "very well-regulated financial market," she told broadcaster News18 on Friday. "One instance, however much talked about globally it may be, I would think is not going to be indicative of how well Indian financial markets are governed," Sitharaman said. I think the investor confidence which existed before shall continue even now." However, calls for a probe are growing amid questions about whether financial regulators had done enough scrutiny of the group. The allegations made by Hindenburg need an enquiry at the level of the Supreme Court because the charges are serious, economist Prasenjit Bose said. The controversy has also turned into a political flashpoint. Parliament was adjourned Thursday and Friday as opposition lawmakers demanded an inquiry either by a joint parliamentary committee or one monitored by the Supreme Court into the allegations and have expressed concerns about exposure that Indian financial institutions have to the Adani Group. Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi, a member of Prime Minister Narendra Modis Bharatiya Janata Party, told reporters outside parliament on Friday that we [the government] have no connection with the Adani controversy. Political analyst Mukhopadhyay said, The Adani meltdown will only have a political impact if there is a negative fallout on the wider stock markets and Indian public financial institutions. Otherwise, it will blow over. By Takaki Tominaga, KYODO NEWS - Feb 4, 2023 - 08:12 | All, Japan Japanese companies need to do more in addressing human rights issues in their businesses as a failure to keep up with international ethical standards will be a serious risk to their operations in global markets, a U.N. Development Program director said. "If companies do not tackle this issue in the right way, they could be shut out from the European and U.S. markets," Asako Okai, director of the UNDP's Crisis Bureau, said in a recent interview. Companies worldwide in apparel, textile and solar panel industries, for example, have scrutinized their supply chains to see if their products included materials from China's Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region, an area known for producing cotton and polysilicon used in solar panels. The office of the U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights concluded last year in a report that "serious human rights violations" against the Uyghur and "other predominantly Muslim communities" have been committed, though Beijing denies the allegations. Okai, a Japanese national, said the UNDP itself is following the situation in the autonomous region. "If China desires to conduct business and human rights due diligence training, we are in a position to support such efforts," she said, adding that currently, there is no specific movement or project on the matter. European countries and the United States, in particular, have aggressively advanced rule-making in eradicating human rights violations, such as forced labor from supply chains. In Germany, the law on due diligence in supply chains came into force this year, requiring companies with at least 3,000 employees doing business in the country to identify legal and ethical situations in their operations, such as human rights and environmental risks. The United Nations Human Rights Council in 2011 unanimously endorsed the U.N. Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights, a set of guidelines for states and companies to prevent and address human rights abuses committed in business operations. The UNDP launched new Human Rights Due Diligence training materials and tools to help businesses prevent, mitigate and account for potential human rights abuses in their operations and supply chains. Last September, the Japanese government released its "Guidelines on Respecting Human Rights in Responsible Supply Chains," which requires firms doing business in the country to formulate their human rights policy, conduct human rights due diligence and provide a remedy when business enterprises cause or contribute to situations adversely impacting human rights. Okai said the concept of human rights assessment has not been widely shared among subcontractors or small- and medium-sized enterprises in Japan largely due to shortages of human resources and funds. "It is a tremendous amount of work and costs money, but efforts will lead to the improvement of corporate brands," Okai said. Mining in Africa and elsewhere is also a high-risk industry in terms of human rights violations, including the use of child labor amid global competition to secure minerals necessary for products such as batteries linked to decarbonization, Okai added. Related coverage: U.S., Japan launch task force to tackle forced labor in supply chains U.S. import ban over China's forced labor in Xinjiang takes effect Japan telecom giant NTT to check suppliers for human rights abuses Arab media report that relations between Iran and Syria have taken a turn for the worse after Tehran stopped providing subsidized petroleum products to Damascus. Repeated Israeli attacks on pro-Iranian militia forces are also leading Tehran and its militia allies to question whether some Syrian military commanders aren't informing Israel about their movements. A drone strike in late January on a pro-Iranian militia truck convoy near the Syrian-Iraqi border appears to have made both Iran and Syria nervous about their strategic relations, after some reports claimed that Syrian sources have been giving Israel information about Iranian weapons shipments inside Syria. London-based Syrian analyst Ramy Abdel Rahman told Arab media that Iran and its Hezbollah and Iraqi militia allies acted quickly to make changes to the personnel at the Boukamel border post between Syria and Iraq and near pro-Iranian militia positions after the Israeli attack. It was not clear if the changes included Syrian government forces. Abdel Rahman argues that Syrians were not involved in giving information to Israel. He says that his information is that there are those working for Israel and that Hezbollah is aware of it, but they are Lebanese and Iranians, rather than Syrians. The movements of the pro-Iranian forces are being telegraphed to the U.S. and Israel. The fact that some convoys are passing unscathed while others are not, he says, points to information coming from inside Iran about what the convoys are carrying. The Saudi-owned Asharq Alawsat newspaper claimed in an article last week (Saturday, January 28, 2023) that relations between Tehran and Damascus are tense due to Iranian concerns that Syrian sources might be providing Israel with information about movements by Iran and its allies inside Syria. Joshua Landis, who heads the Middle East studies program at the University of Oklahoma, tells VOA that many Syrians, including some in the military, are not pleased about Iran's behavior inside their country, and many are worried about those attacks destroying morale in President Bashar al-Assad's forces. Nevertheless, he thinks that tensions between Tehran and Damascus are unlikely to cause any serious breach between the two allies. "I would hate to exaggerate the tensions, although they are very real tensions because Iran and Syria are connected at the hip and so is Hezbollah, and in many ways, Iran has been successful in its last 10 years of effort to consolidate its grip both in Iraq, in Syria and in Lebanon," said Landis. Landis stresses that Iran's decision to stop selling subsidized petroleum to Syria has aggravated an already serious economic crisis inside Syria and is "making people extremely unhappy" and leaving "no foreseeable way to get out of the downward spiral." "Tensions have only gotten worse," he argues, "as sanctions against both Russia and Iran and military pressure on Iran with the latest strike (on an Iranian convoy near the Boukamel border post) makes it look like things are going to go from bad to worse in Syria and raise tensions in all the relationships." Khattar Abou Diab, who teaches political science at the University of Paris, tells VOA that Iran "is Syria's main benefactor since 2011, providing the bulk of aid to President Assad's government," getting in return economic and political influence, including "an interest in economic assets like government land and buildings, and natural resources like phosphate mines." Iran, he adds, "has changed the face of Syria and its main cities, including Damascus, Aleppo and Homs." Abou Diab argues that despite friction between the two countries, including a canceled visit by Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi in December, cooperation remains strong. He says talk of problems between the two governments is exaggerated because Syrian Defense Minister Ali Abbas recently visited Iran, reaching agreements to strengthen electronic and intelligence ties in addition to installing a new anti-air defense system outside Damascus. Iran, he says, is still the main powerbroker inside Syria, despite claims by Russia to have more clout. London-based Iran analyst Mehrdad Khonsari tells VOA that Iran's cutback in aid to Syria is due to Iranian money being "blocked by the continuing stalemate over reviving the 2015 JCPOA," making Tehran unable to allocate resources to Syria. The Iranian Revolutionary Guard, he argues, "would like to revive the nuclear deal so it can make use of some of its resources in places like Syria." Khonsari is skeptical, however, about a serious rift between Tehran and Damascus. "Who can Assad trust more than the Iranians?" he asks. "It may not be an ideal situation right now," he says, "but if you look at the past 10 or 15 years, Iran has been the most reliable partner that he's had." For full coverage of the crisis in Ukraine, visit Flashpoint Ukraine. The latest developments in Russias war on Ukraine. All times EST. 9:39 p.m.: In his nightly video address, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy discussed the prisoner exchange earlier Saturday. Since February 24, our team has managed to return totally 1,762 Ukrainian men and women from Russian captivity, Zelenskyy said. I also thank all those involved in helping these people after their return. Everyone who treats, restores documents, helps solve problematic issues of those released from captivity. It reflects the basic meaning of what we do. We restore and protect the normality of life for our people in a free country. 8:35 p.m.: Saudi Energy Minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman warned on Saturday Western sanctions against Russia could result in a shortage of energy supplies in future, Reuters reported. In answer to a question over how trade measures would affect the energy market, Prince Abdulaziz told an industry conference in Riyadh: "All of those so-called sanctions, embargoes, lack of investments, they will convolute into one thing and one thing only, a lack of energy supplies of all kinds when they are most needed." The prince also said Saudi Arabia was working to send Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) to Ukraine. LPG is most commonly used as a cooking fuel and in heating. 7:45 p.m.: Odesa regional governor Maksym Marchenko said practically all of the city had lost power after the incident, and that as of Saturday afternoon about 500,000 people faced outages, Reuters reported. That represents about half of Odesa's pre-war population of one million, when it was Ukraine's third largest city. 6:51 p.m.: Punk icon John Lydon has failed in his attempt to become Irelands entry for the pop music competition the Eurovision Song Contest.The former Sex Pistols frontman entered the song Hawaii with his post-punk band Public Image Ltd. in the national runoff for Mays continent-wide contest, The Associated Press reported. Founded in 1956 to help unite a continent scarred by World War II, Eurovision sees more than 40 countries compete for the continents pop music crown. The 2023 contest will be staged in the English city of Liverpool after Britain was asked to hold the event on behalf of Ukraine. Ukraine won the right to host the pop extravaganza when its entry, folk-rap ensemble Kalush Orchestra, won the 2022 contest. Britains Sam Ryder came second. 6:04 p.m.: Western officials reportedly estimate that Russian forces have sustained almost 200,000 casualties in the war in #Ukraine, the Institute for the Study of War reports. 5:30 p.m.: Russian forces recruited 50 women in a penal colony on the territory of the temporarily occupied Donetsk Oblast to fight against Ukraine. Euromaidan Press cites a report Saturday, by the General Staff of the Ukrainian Armed Forces saying those women were sent to the territory of the Russian Federation for training. To replenish its casualties, the adversary is trying to involve convicted women in the fighting," the report reads. "During the week, the occupant forces recruited about 50 people from the womens correctional colony in Snizhne (the temporarily occupied territory of Donetsk Oblast). They are also reported to be sent to the territory of the Russian Federation for training." 5:15 p.m.: U.S. President Joe Biden will visit Poland, the Polish president's foreign policy adviser said on Saturday. "We already know for sure that President Joe Biden will respond positively to President Duda's invitation and will come to Poland," Marcin Przydacz said on public TV. "We have agreed with the American side that we will announce the date of this visit in due course, but I can assure that it will be sooner rather than later." Przydacz said that preparations are underway for the visit which "meets the expectations of both the White House and the expectations of the Polish side." President Biden said on Monday that he would visit Poland but did not know know when, Reuters reports. 5:05 p.m.: 4:45 p.m.: 3:57 p.m.: Portugal will send Leopard 2 tanks to Ukraine, Prime Minister Antonio Costa said on Saturday, but he added that a number of them are inoperable, and Portugal is in talks with Germany to obtain parts needed for their repair. Costa said he hoped to deliver some of them to Ukraine by the end of March. "We are currently working to be able to dispense some of our tanks," Costa told Lusa news agency during a trip to the Central African Republic. "I know how many tanks will be (sent to Ukraine) but that will be announced at the appropriate time." Costa's office did not immediately reply to a request for comment. Admiral Antonio Silva Ribeiro, the head of the Portuguese armed forces, said last month Portugal had 37 Leopard 2 tanks but it has been widely reported by local media that most are inoperable. The defense ministry said it would not comment on the "operability of weapons and equipment systems" for security reasons. Ukraine's Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba said this week the country would receive 120 to 140 western tanks in a "first wave" of deliveries from a coalition of 12 countries. Kyiv secured pledges from the West to supply main battle tanks to help fend off Russia's full-scale invasion, with Moscow mounting huge efforts to make incremental advances in eastern Ukraine, Reuters reports. 2:52 p.m.: In a phone conversation Saturday, U.K. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak discussed with Ukrainian Prime Minister Volodymyr Zelenskyy the latest situation on the ground in Ukraine and the Prime Minister said he was focused on ensuring the U.K.s defensive military equipment reached the front line as quickly as possible, Sunak's office said in a press release Saturday. Both leaders agreed that it was vital that international partners accelerated their assistance to Ukraine to help seize the opportunity to push Russian forces back, as well as looking at how they could support the long-term capability of Ukraines armed forces. The greatest weapon in Ukraines arsenal was the collective international unity in support of Ukraine, the leaders agreed. 2:15 p.m.: Deputy Defense Minister Hanna Maliar said on Saturday that, over the past week, Russian forces had thrown all their strength into breaking our defense and encircling Bakhmut and launched a severe offensive near Lyman." However, she said, Russia's attempts to surround the town of Bakhmut in Donetsk Oblast had failed so far, The Kyiv Independent reports. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Friday, that Ukraine will not surrender Bakhmut. No one will surrender Bakhmut. We will fight as long as we can, Zelenskyy said at a press conference following the 24th Ukraine-EU summit in Kyiv. The Ukrainian intelligence issue Friday a stark warning that Russia was redeploying additional assault groups and military equipment to capture the Donbas by March. Russian regular forces, along with Kremlin-controlled mercenary group Wagner, have been attempting to capture Bakhmut for months as Russia tries to consolidate its grip over the entirety of Donetsk Oblast, half of which it currently controls. 1:30 p.m.: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said on Saturday that the situation on the front lines in the east of the country was getting tougher and Russia was throwing more and more troops into battle. Russian forces are slowly gaining ground in the Donbas region, encircling the city of Bakhmut north of Donetsk and battling to take control of a nearby road which is a major supply route for Ukrainian forces. They are also trying to capture Vuhledar, southwest of Donetsk, Reuters reports. "I've often had to say the situation at the front is tough, and is getting tougher, and it's that time again. ... The invader is putting more and more of his forces into breaking down our defenses," Zelenskyy said in a video address. "It is very difficult now in Bakhmut, Vuhledar, Lyman and other directions," he continued. The Ukrainian president thanked U.K. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and all the British people for helping Ukraine. Now, in the U.K., our guys have already started training on Challenger tanks. It's a good vehicle. And it will be a big thing on the battlefield, he said. 12:05 p.m.: A funeral for a Belarusian military volunteer and dissident was held in Ukraine's capital. Eduard Lobov died fighting Russian troops in Vuhledar in eastern Ukraine. His funeral was held on Saturday and his body will be transported to Warsaw for burial. Lobov is the latest casualty of the Kalinowsky Regiment, a Belarusian unit mobilized in March 2022 that is fighting alongside Ukraine. The group seeks to oust Belarus' authoritarian leader Alexander Lukashenko, a close ally of Russia. They believe Ukraines victory over Russia will spur regime change in Minsk, AP reports. 10:42 a.m.: The United States and Russia faced off Saturday, over a World Health Organization report on the humanitarian crisis in Ukraine, with Moscow saying it was politically motivated and Washington calling for it to be swiftly updated, Reuters reports. The report, by WHO Director General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, was presented to the organization's executive board, on which both Russia and the United States sit. It covered events in the first nine months of 2022 and classed the situation in Ukraine, which Russia invaded on Feb. 24, as one of eight acute global health emergencies. The report documented more than 14,000 civilian casualties, with 17.7 million people in need of humanitarian assistance and 7.5 million Ukrainian refugees displaced across Europe. Of 471 attacks with heavy weapons on healthcare facilities globally, 448 occurred in Ukraine, the WHO report said. Russia's representative to the WHO board called it politicized and one-sided and described its references to Ukraine as unfounded accusations. 10:05 a.m.: German Federal Prosecutor General Peter Frank has spoken out in favour of an international criminal investigation of the Russian war on Ukraine. "Whether through the International Criminal Court or a special tribunal is ultimately a decision for the international community," he told Sunday's edition of Die Welt newspaper in comments seen in advance by The German Press Agency, dpa. 9:45 a.m.: Ukraine and Russia traded almost 200 prisoners of war in a swap announced separately by both sides on Saturday, with the bodies of two British volunteers also being sent back to Ukraine. The Ukrainian president's chief of staff, Andriy Yermak, said 116 Ukrainians had been returned, while Russian news agencies cited Moscow's defense ministry saying 63 Russian POWs had been freed, Reuters reports. "We managed to return 116 of our people, defenders of Mariupol, partisans from Kherson, snipers from the Bakhmut (front) and other heroes of ours," Yermak wrote on Telegram. Yermak also said the bodies of British volunteer aid workers Andrew Bagshaw and Chris Parry had been sent back to Ukraine. 9:15 a.m.: All that is left of the Mariupol drama theater. 8:57 a.m.: Widespread power outages in and around Ukraine's southern port city of Odesa were causes by a serious accident at the high voltage substation, Ukraine's Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal said on Saturday. "The situation is difficult, the scale of the accident is significant, it is impossible to quickly restore power supply, in particular to critical infrastructure," Shmyhal wrote on Telegram. He said the substation in Odesa region had previously been damaged multiple times by Russian missile strikes, and that the energy minister was on his way to the regional capital to oversee repairs along with the national grid operator's CEO. Shmyhal said authorities were now working to restore power supply to critical infrastructure and apartment blocks which needed electricity to heat homes. The temperature in Odesa, Ukraine's main southern port city on the Black sea with a pre-war population of one million, was at two degrees Celsius (35.6F) on Saturday and is due to dip below freezing for much of the next week. Shmyhal said he had ordered Ukraine's energy ministry to scramble every available high-power generator in its nationwide inventory and deliver it to Odesa within a day. He also ordered Ukraine's foreign ministry to appeal to Turkey to send vessels which carry power plants to come to the city's aid, Reuters reports. 8:30 a.m.: The United States warned Turkey in recent days about the export to Russia of chemicals, microchips and other products that can be used in Moscow's war effort in Ukraine, and it could move to punish Turkish companies or banks contravening sanctions. Brian Nelson, the U.S. Treasury Department's top sanctions official, visited Turkish government and private sector officials on Thursday and Friday to urge more cooperation in disrupting the flow of such goods. In a speech to bankers, Nelson said a marked year-long rise in exports to Russia leaves Turkish entities "particularly vulnerable to reputational and sanctions risks," or lost access to G7 markets. They should "take extra precaution to avoid transactions related to potential dual-use technology transfers that could be used by the Russian military-industrial complex," he said in a copy of the speech issued by the Treasury. According to Reuters, in December at least $2.6 billion of computer and other electronic components flowed into Russia in the seven months to Oct. 31. At least $777 million of these products were made by Western firms whose chips have been found in Russian weapons systems. 7:45 a.m.: Former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev has said supplying more advanced U.S. weaponry to Ukraine will only trigger more retaliatory strikes from Russia, up to the extent of Russia's nuclear doctrine. "All of Ukraine that remains under Kyiv's rule will burn," journalist Nadana Fridrikhson quoted him as saying in a written interview with her. Fridrikhson asked Medvedev, who as deputy chairman of the Security Council has become one of Russia's most hawkish pro-war figures since its invasion of Ukraine, whether the use of longer-range weapons might force Russia to negotiate with Kyiv. "The result will be just the opposite," Medvedev replied, in comments that Fridrikhson posted on her Telegram channel. "Only moral freaks, of which there are enough both in the White House and in the Capitol, can argue like that." The Pentagon said on Friday that a new rocket that would double Ukraine's strike range was included in a $2.175 billion U.S. military aid package, Reuters reports. 5:23 a.m.: When Russia invaded Ukraine a year ago, award-winning Ukrainian filmmaker Alisa Kovalenko put down her camera to join the battles raging on the country's eastern front. Kovalenko returned to making films, driven by the belief that the silver screen can be an equally effective weapon to fight the enemy as she tells the story of five teenagers determined to pursue their dreams despite the carnage of war that envelops their worlds. "This cultural front is really important," Kovalenko told Reuters. "It helps people around the world feel and understand what people are going through." Kovalenko's documentary We Will Not Fade Away opens in the Panorama section of the Berlinale on February 22, forming part of a broader Ukraine focus at this year's festival. The film is shot over three years in the villages of Zolote-4 and Stanytsia Luhanska, in the eastern Donbas region where fighting has taken place since 2014. Kovalenko started filming in 2019 but stopped when she signed up for a Ukrainian voluntary battalion last March. She said she returned to filming four months later after Russian forces bombed the fighters' base and one of her friends was killed. The film's protagonists including an aspiring motorcycle mechanic and a nascent rapper embark on an inspirational walking trip in the Himalayas before returning to Ukraine. In the final credits, viewers learn that the villages have now fallen under Russian control and that contact with some of the teenagers has been lost. 4:13 a.m.: Germany is talking to the Swedish government about buying mobile launchers that would boost the capabilities of IRIS-T air defense systems that Berlin is planning to send to Ukraine, Reuters reported, citing a Friday Spiegel magazine article. Germany has shipped one IRIS-T system to Ukraine and plans to send more, answering Kyiv's pleas for air defenses to repel Russian missile and drone attacks that have wreaked destruction on cities since the start of the invasion nearly a year ago. The Swedish launchers would help Ukrainian troops protect a larger area against Russian attacks. German Economy Minister Robert Habeck raised the issue on a visit to Sweden this week but the Swedish government has so far declined to supply the launchers, Spiegel reported. Sweden's armed forces declined comment. The Swedish defense ministry did not immediately reply to a request for comment. 3:07 a.m.: The Institute for the Study of War, a U.S. think tank, said in its latest Ukraine assessment that Russian forces continued offensive operations along the Svatove-Kreminna line with an intensified pace of operations near Kreminna. They also continued offensive operations around Bakhmut. They did not, however, make any confirmed territorial gains in southern Ukraine. Western officials reportedly estimate that Russian forces have sustained almost 200,000 casualties in the war in Ukraine, the assessment said. 2:17 a.m.: Canada on Friday imposed sanctions on 38 individuals and 16 entities it said were "complicit in peddling Russian disinformation and propaganda," prompting a quick promise of retaliation from Moscow, Reuters reported. The targeted individuals and entities include Russian state-owned media group MIA Rossiya Segodnya and singer Nikolai Baskov, who performed in a pro-war concert in Moscow, the foreign ministry said in a statement. "President Vladimir Putin's war in Ukraine is based on lies and deception. Russian disinformation operations have enlisted celebrities and so-called news organizations to echo the Kremlin's talking points and attempt to justify the atrocities happening across Ukraine," it said. Canada, one of the most vocal international supporters of Ukraine, has imposed sanctions on almost 4,000 people and entities from and in Russia, Ukraine and Belarus since 2014. Oleg Stepanov, Russia's ambassador to Canada, said Moscow would react to the sanctions in a reciprocal fashion. 1:07 a.m.: Ukraine said Friday it had started replacing millions of regular light bulbs with energy-saving LED lamps as part of an EU-funded project to help with energy shortages caused by Russian strikes, Agence France-Presse reported. For months Moscow has systematically targeted Ukraine's energy grid, leaving millions in the dark and cold in the middle of winter. The EU said in December it would fund the purchase of 30 million LED light bulbs for Ukraine worth $33 million to help deal with the large-scale blackouts. Ukrainians can swap five old light bulbs for five LED bulbs at post offices. On Friday, at Kyiv's main post office lit by four imposing chandeliers Ukrainians huddled at counter 18, where the exchange took place. A post office employee said "a lot of people" come to exchange bulbs every day. "Everyone says this is a very good idea," said the worker who wore a yellow and black vest. 12:12 a.m.: Russia's monthly budget revenues from oil and gas fell in January to their lowest level since August 2020 under the impact of Western sanctions on its most lucrative export, Finance Ministry data showed Friday, Reuters reported. Monthly tax and customs revenue from energy sales declined 46% in a year, reflecting the fact that, while the price of the global benchmark Brent blend was little changed, the average monthly price of Russia's Urals blend was down 42%, according to the ministry. Moscow relies on income from oil and gas, last year around $165 billion, to fund its budget spending, and has been forced to start selling international reserves to cover a deficit stretched by the cost of its invasion of Ukraine. Some information in this report came from The Associated Press, Reuters and Agence France-Presse. Peruvian lawmakers have once again blocked the presidents attempt to bring elections forward to 2023. Protesters have been demanding new elections, but Congress has refused to make it happen. President Dina Boluarte's proposal for the new vote was rejected Friday by a congressional committee on a technicality before the bill could even be debated. Peru has been in crisis since early December when then-president Pedro Castillo was arrested after attempting to dissolve Congress and rule by decree. Bouluarts was Castillos vice president. Dozens of people have been killed in almost daily protests that have swept the country since Castillos arrest. Lawmakers have, however, moved the elections that were originally slated for 2026 up to April 2024. Some information in this report came from Reuters and Agence France-Presse. Nigerian Central Bank authorities are calling for calm as citizens march in the streets protesting cash and fuel shortages days ahead of the February 10 deadline when the country will switch to redesigned currency. Protesters asked authorities Friday to circulate the new notes or reverse the currency switch decision. President Muhammadu Buhari assured citizens Friday that the problem will be addressed in a matter of days. Central Bank of Nigeria Governor Godwin Emefiele told reporters Saturday authorities are taking measures to ensure smooth flow of the cash swap and minimize inconvenience. He said there are enough of the redesigned currency and reiterated that the deadline to exchange the old bills for the new ones will not be extended beyond February 10. On Sunday, the CBN announced a 10-day extension from January 31 for citizens to exchange world currencies for the new 200-, 500-, and 1,000-naira bills But across many states, citizens say the new cash is yet to circulate, bringing business to a halt. The situation snowballed into protests Friday in Oyo, Delta, Osun and Lagos states. Angry mobs vandalized banks and gas stations. Ogho Okiti, the managing director of BusinessDay Media Ltd. said the new policy, though profitable, is already showing signs of poor implementation. "What I think is happening is that we're seeing an evidence of poor execution of the policy," said Okiti. "There's the dimension of logistics, there's dimension of restrictions, then the dimension of accessibility, even to make transfers online you're not able to do that. So, it's putting so much frustration and pressure on the system". Nigeria is also facing intensifying fuel shortages across the country due to a disruption in the product distribution chain caused by the activities of cross-border smugglers. On Friday, Buhari called for calm and said he has met with officials to resolve the problem in a lasting manner. Oyo state Governor Sheyi Makinde also addressed residents in a televised broadcast, condemning violence in the state's capital of Ibadan. "The violence that erupted in part of Ibadan today is condemnable and will not be tolerated," said Makinde. "In response to this I've suspended all campaign activities, I've also met with the heads of security agencies in Oyo state to restore calm. Violence cannot and will not solve our problems". But across many states, citizens say the new cash is yet to circulate and the old notes have been mostly withdrawn from circulation, making business transactions difficult. "The protest was actually peaceful, but I guess some people all these political thugs joined, that is why it actually became violent. The bank was actually damaged totally, because they burgled the ATM machine, sike ?? parts of the windows," said Stephen Adekunle, an Oyo State Resident. This is Nigeria's first currency swap in 19 years. Authorities say the measure is already making an impact curbing crimes, counterfeiting and corruption, as well as recalling the excess cash stashed away back into the banking system. South Koreas top nuclear envoy said an agreement with the United States to jointly bolster extended deterrence against North Korea gives the Yoon administration needed confidence that the alliance will be able to effectively defend against aggression from Pyongyang. The U.S. commitment, laid out in a joint statement by the two countries in mid-September, includes an affirmation that a North Korean nuclear test would be met with an overwhelming and decisive response. It adds that the two countries will continue and strengthen close Alliance consultation regarding U.S. nuclear and missile defense policy. Kim Gunn, South Koreas special representative for Korean Peninsula peace and security affairs, reiterated a recent statement by South Korean President Yoon Suk on the matter during a Friday interview with Washington Talk, a weekly on-air discussion on North Korea by the VOA Korean Service. In his recent interview, my president made it very clear that we have confidence in the U.S. extended deterrence, he said. We are having a very close coordination [with the U.S.] on how to strengthen the effectiveness of our extended deterrence. On January 11, Yoon received widespread attention with a suggestion that Seoul could respond to the North Korean nuclear threat by building its own nuclear weapons or having U.S. strategic assets redeployed to South Korea. His remarks came amid growing concern among the South Koreans over the U.S. commitment to defend their nation against growing North Korean threats. But Kim Gunn said on Washington Talk that the alliances focus on bolstering the extended deterrence should allay the public concern. Sung Kim, U.S. special representative for North Korea, who appeared on the show with Kim Gunn, also seemed to play down speculation that South Korea is contemplating the development of its own nuclear or other weapons of mass destruction. President Yoon has made clear that the ROK is not interested in pursuing a WMD program but is instead working very closely with us in all levels to make sure that our defense and deterrence are as strong as it needs to be, he said. The ROK stands for South Koreas official name, the Republic of Korea. The U.S. envoy continued, That includes engaging in a very serious dialogue about how we strengthen extended deterrence, including things like looking at the frequency and intensity of U.S. strategic deployments on the peninsula. Bolstering extended deterrence Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin and South Korean Defense Minister Lee Jong-sup agreed at their meeting on January 31 in Seoul to boost deterrence measures including ways to expand information sharing and to respond to North Koreas use of nuclear weapons through tabletop exercises scheduled for later this month. The U.S. conducted joint military drills with South Korea on February 1 involving U.S. B-1B long-range strategic bombers and stealth fighters as a show of force to provide credible extended deterrence against North Korea, according to South Koreas Defense Ministry. In response, North Korea released a statement Thursday saying the combined drills have reached an extreme red-line. It vowed to take the toughest reaction to any military attempt of the U.S. on the principle of nuke for nuke and an all-out confrontation for an all-out confrontation. At the same time, Pyongyang rejected any prospects for dialogue. North Korea launched more then 90 ballistic and cruise missiles last year, including several intercontinental ballistic missiles. In September, it codified into its law the right to use nuclear weapons preemptively against threats it perceives as imminent. Diplomatic outreach Both envoys said North Korea largely dismissed calls by their nations for talks despite efforts made to engage Pyongyang. Sung Kim said, I can assure you that we have sent multiple messages to Pyongyang through various channels, including the New York channel. The New York channel is the Permanent Mission of North Korea to the United Nations. He continued, Unfortunately, North Koreans have shown no interest in diplomatic engagement with us, but we will continue to remind them that our position has not changed, that we are, in fact, willing to engage in dialogue with them without preconditions. Kim Gunn said, I think its obvious North Korea does not heed our call for dialogue. Despite Pyongyangs lack of interest in engaging in talks, both envoys said the policy of Washington and Seoul to seek North Koreas denuclearization has not changed. When asked if he believes denuclearization is possible without changing the regime headed by Kim Jong Un, Sung Kim said yes. We believe so. He continued, Thats why our aim remains the complete denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula. China and Russia Sung Kim, who also serves as the U.S. ambassador to Indonesia, said China and Russia have said they share the goal of denuclearization, but he emphasized that neither has made commitments toward that goal. They have a responsibility to faithfully implement U.N. Security Council resolutions, he said. And we have seen a lot of information suggesting that both Russia and China are helping the DPRK evade sanctions. North Koreas official name is the Democratic Peoples Republic of Korea (DPRK). China and Russia blocked on May 26 a U.N. Security Council resolution drafted by the U.S. calling for strengthened sanctions on North Korea in response to its renewed ballistic missile tests, including an ICBM launched the previous day. Again, on November 4, China and Russia blocked a U.N. action on North Korea by providing Pyongyang with blanket protection, according to U.S. Ambassador to the U.N. Linda Thomas-Greenfield. The remarks came a day after North Korea launched an ICBM, which apparently failed. Kim Gunn stressed the importance of China's role in persuading North Korea to give up its nuclear arsenal. Despite Chinas increasingly assertive role in the region, a South Korean Indo-Pacific Strategy released in December described China as a key partner. Asked during the Washington Talk show about his countrys reasoning, the South Korean envoy said, China must be our partner to persuade North Korea to give up [its] nuclear weapons. Human rights Also on the show, Sung Kim lauded President Joe Bidens January 23 nomination of Julie Turner, a longtime State Department official, as the special envoy for human rights in North Korea. The position has been unfilled for the past six years. The signal it sends is to demonstrate [Bidens] strong commitment to improving the lives of North Korean people, because we know that the human rights situation in North Korea remains very troubling, said Sung Kim. The Biden administration has maintained that human rights concerns are at the core of its foreign policy since it took office in January 2021. Two Russian missiles hit the Ukrainian city of Kharkiv Sunday, according to a Reuters report, with one missile hitting a residential building. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Saturday the situation is getting tougher in Eastern Ukraine, with a fresh wave of Russian shelling in Chernihiv, Zaporizhzhia, Dnipropetrovsk, Kharkiv, Luhansk, Donetsk and Mykolaiv regions. In his nightly video address, the Ukrainian leader said Russia was throwing more and more of its forces at breaking down our defense. Ukrainian officials said they repelled a renewed Russian assault on the besieged eastern city of Bakhmut on Saturday. Zelenskyy vowed Friday not to surrender Bakhmut. We will fight as long as we can. In a phone conversation Saturday, Zelenskyy discussed with British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak about the latest situation on the ground in Ukraine and they both agreed in accelerating additional military support from the West to push back Russian forces. They also discussed the long-term capabilities of Ukraines armed forces. The Ukrainian president thanked Sunak and Britain for helping Ukraine. Now, in the U.K., our guys have already started training on Challenger tanks," Zelenskyy said. "It's a good vehicle. And it will be a big thing on the battlefield. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba said earlier this week the country would receive 120 to 140 Western tanks in a "first wave" of deliveries from a coalition of 12 countries. Kyiv secured pledges from the West to supply main battle tanks to help fend off Russia's full-scale invasion, with Moscow mounting huge efforts to make incremental advances in eastern Ukraine. The United States announced Friday it would provide an additional $2.175 billion worth of military aid for Ukraine, including conventional and long-range rockets for U.S.-provided HIMARs, as well as other munitions and weapons. According to a U.S. official, the longer-range, precision-guided rockets would double Ukraine's strike range for the first time since Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Odesa plunges into darkness Earlier Saturday, nearly 500,000 people were left without power after an overloaded electrical substation in Odesa, Ukraines southern port city on the Black Sea, caught fire. The temperature in Odesa was 2 degrees Celsius Saturday and was forecast to drop below freezing for much of next week. A Reuters report Sunday, however, said power has been at least partially restored. Ukrainian officials warned that repairs could take weeks. Regional Governor Maksym Marchenko said he did not have a timeline for when power would be fully restored to the city. Volodymyr Kudrytskyi, the CEO of state grid operator Ukrenergo, said critical equipment that had already been damaged several times by Russian missile strikes burst into flames when it could no longer "withstand the load," delivering a fresh blow to the country's ailing energy grid that has been pounded by Russian strikes for months. [The equipment] has been struck so many times that its state leaves much to be desired," Kudrytskyi told a briefing in Odesa. The Ukrainian government said it would appeal to Turkey to send vessels that carry power plants to Odesa and ordered the energy ministry's nationwide stocks of high-power generators to be delivered to the city within a day. "We will do everything we can for the improvement of the power supply situation to take days rather than weeks," he said. Kudrytskyi warned any further Russian missile or drone attacks could make the situation worse. Months of shelling Since October, Moscow has waged a campaign of massive missile attacks on the energy infrastructure. Moscow claims the strikes aim to reduce Ukraines ability to fight; Kyiv says they have no military purpose and are intended to hurt civilians. During the 24th EU-Ukraine Summit Friday in Kyiv, European Union officials pledged their unwavering support to help Ukraine rebuild its infrastructure against Russia's ongoing war. Charles Michel, president of the European Council, and Ursula von der Leyen, president of the European Commission, said the union will support Ukraine "for as long as it takes." In a joint statement Friday, the officials promised to help rebuild Ukraine's devastated critical infrastructure, providing energy support and services for the country "to get through the winter," and beyond. They said that so far, the EU and its member states have provided $570 million in aid for energy and reconstruction, and another $525 million for humanitarian efforts. The officials underscored their commitment to promote Ukraine's integration into the European Union, but they said there was no promise of a fast-track membership. Kyiv applied to become an EU member shortly after Russia's invasion and wants to start formal accession talks as soon as possible. "There are no rigid timelines, but there are goals that you have to reach," von der Leyen told the news conference in response to a question about Ukraine's accession drive. One of the conditions for Ukraine's EU integration is its fight against corruption. The EU Commission president praised Kyiv for its expanded efforts to clamp down on graft. Michel and von der Leyen condemned Russia's escalating war against Ukraine and its citizens as "a manifest violation of international law, including the principles of the U.N. Charter." They emphasized the need to establish a Special Tribunal at The Hague for the investigation and prosecution of war crimes against Ukraine. They also emphasized that the EU will never recognize as lawful any illegal annexation of Ukraine by Russia. In addition, the EU officials unveiled a new package of sanctions, the 10th, against Russia. It will target the trade and technology that supports its war against Ukraine, von der Leyen said. Some information for this report came from The Associated Press, Reuters and Agence France-Presse. Pakistan has blocked access to Wikipedia for not removing what it denounced as blasphemous content, the host of the worlds largest free online encyclopedia said Saturday. The Wikimedia Foundation demanded that the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) immediately reverse the ban, and said, it "believes that access to knowledge is a human right." The ban denies "the fifth most populous nation in the world access to the largest free knowledge repository, the platform said in a statement. We hope that the Pakistan government joins us in a commitment to knowledge as a human right and restores access to Wikipedia and Wikimedia projects promptly, so that the people of Pakistan can continue to receive and share knowledge with the world." A spokesperson for the PTA was quoted as confirming to local media it had blocked Wikipedia services in the country for not complying with directives for the removal of unlawful content from the platform. The decision can be reviewed once Wikipedia removes sacrilegious content that has been identified by the regulatory authority, PTA spokesperson Malahat Obaid told the English-language Dawn newspaper. The state regulator Wednesday degraded Wikipedia services across Pakistan and linked its full restoration to blocking/removal of the reported content by late Friday, according to a Twitter post. The PTA did not elaborate. The ban on Wikipedia drew criticism from Pakistani social media activists and users, demanding the government review the decision and denouncing it as regressive and harmful for the countrys global image. The Wikimedia Foundation noted in its statement that the English version of Wikipedia in Pakistan "receives more than 50 million page views per month. There is also a sizable and engaged community of editors in Pakistan that contributes historical and educational content, it added. The online platform defended its editorial policy, saying Wikipedia is written by nearly 300,000 volunteer editors around the world. They have designed robust editorial guidelines that require strict citations and references to verified sources of information, the statement said. We respect and support the editorial decisions made by the community of editors around the world. Pakistan has previously also imposed temporary bans on access to Facebook, YouTube and other social media outlets in the country for posting content deemed offensive to Islam. Blasphemy is a highly sensitive issue in the Muslim-majority South Asian nation of about 220 million people and it carries the death penalty under Pakistani laws. Human rights activists have long alleged successive governments in Pakistan use blasphemy laws to crackdown on free speech to silence dissents and intimidate political opponents as well as religious minorities. The U.S. Defense Department said Friday another Chinese surveillance balloon is sailing over Latin America, two days after a similar high-altitude balloon was discovered traveling over the United States. Pentagon press secretary Air Force Brigadier General Pat Ryder said in a statement to media outlets we are seeing reports of a balloon transitioning Latin America. We now assess it is another Chinese surveillance balloon, he said. Earlier Friday, Ryder told reporters at the Pentagon that the balloon sailing over the United States is there for surveillance in violation of U.S. airspace and international law despite Chinas insistence it is designed for meteorological research. He said he could not go into specifics but said that U.S. defense officials know it is a surveillance balloon and have conveyed their displeasure to Chinese officials at multiple levels. Ryder said they continue to monitor the balloon flying over the United States closely, and while he would not give its specific location, he said it was over the center of the continental United States and moving eastward. He said it does not present a military or physical threat to people on the ground at this time. U.S. defense officials first discovered the balloon Wednesday over the northwestern state of Montana, which houses one of the three U.S. Air Force bases that operate and maintain intercontinental ballistic missiles. Air traffic out of the Billings, Montana, airport briefly came to a halt Wednesday as the U.S. mobilized fighter jets to track the balloon. On Saturday, China's foreign ministry said the craft was a force majeure, citing a legal term to refer to events beyond ones control. It accused U.S. politicians and media of taking advantage of the situation to discredit China. "China has always strictly abided by international law and respected the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries," the ministry said in a statement. A Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson confirmed Friday the balloon over the United States did, in fact, belong to China. The spokesperson said it was civilian airship used mainly for meteorological research and had deviated from its planned course. The spokesperson said China regrets the unintended entry into U.S. airspace and would continue communicating with the United States on the matter. Following confirmation that the balloon belonged to China, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken postponed a trip to China just hours before he was set to depart. Blinken said he told Chinas top diplomat Wang Yi in a phone call Friday that the presence of the surveillance balloon in U.S. airspace is a clear violation of U.S. sovereignty and international law, and called it an irresponsible act. Speaking a press conference Friday alongside visiting South Korean Foreign Minister Park Jin, Blinken said Chinas decision to take this action on the eve of my planned visit is detrimental to the substantive discussions that we were prepared to have. Blinken, however, said the United States remained committed to engagement with China and said he would visit Beijing when conditions allowed. Chinas foreign ministry said Saturday that China and the United States had not announced any visit by Blinken and that "the U.S. announcements are their own matter and we respect that." In an interview with VOAs Mandarin Service, Timothy Heath of the Rand Corp. said the use of such balloons is considered a relatively outdated mode of collecting intelligence as most nations use satellites to collect such data. But Heath said new technologies allow balloons to be more easily controlled, and they are often harder to detect by radar. He said the balloon, which is roughly the size of three school buses, can also hover over an area for longer periods of time. In a separate interview, the Hudson Institutes Patrick Cronin told VOAs Mandarin Service the balloon is a clumsy act of intelligence gathering by the Chinese, and said the United States should prepare an appropriately sharp response to the action. Experts say both the U.S. and the Soviet Union used similar surveillance balloons during the Cold War. Spy balloons usually operate at 24,000- to 36,000 meters, far above the operating levels of commercial airline traffic and fighter jets. Some information for this report came from The Associated Press and Reuters. Pope Francis called on Catholic clergy Saturday, especially those in Africa, to raise their voices against injustice and abuse of power by authorities. Francis was speaking to church leaders on his second day in Juba, South Sudan, where he is on a three-day ecumenical peace pilgrimage. Pope Francis said Saturday the church should play a significant role in ending violence and bad governance in Africa by speaking out about injustices committed by those in power. The pope said, if we want to be pastors who intercede, we cannot afford to remain neutral before the pain caused by acts of injustice and violence. To violate any right against any woman or man is an offense against Christ. The pope was addressing Catholic bishops, priests, and nuns at Juba's St. Therese Cathedral, where he also cautioned against remaining neutral to injustice. He said we are called to intercede for our people, to raise our voices. We cannot afford to remain neutral. Using a metaphor, the pope equated the Nile River, which passes through Juba from Lake Victoria, the world's largest freshwater lake, to the Mediterranean Sea, as the tears of the people of South Sudan immersed in endless suffering. The pontiff asked, how can we exercise our ministry in this land, along the banks of a river bathed in so much innocent blood, among the tear-stained faces of the people entrusted to us? He challenged the clergy to be "courageous and generous souls, ready to suffer and die for Africa. He told said we need courageous, generous souls ready to die for Africa," On Friday, Pope Francis urged South Sudanese leaders to shun violence and embrace peace and he also called on the international community to refrain from interfering in the affairs of a sovereign Africa. Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby is accompanying the ecumenical pilgrimage. My heart breaks. I can hardly speak with sorrow for South Sudan. I beg that at every level, from the president to the smallest child, that people find the mercy of God and are transformed. And that there is peace and good government," Welby said. "That they will not steal money. That no one kills their neighbors for cattle. Rebecca Nyandeng, wife of South Sudan founding father the late John Garang, told citizens to shun ethnic divisions. She said, I am heartbroken that Dr. John died for the independence of this country, yet the very people he died for are now killing themselves. By the fact that you are still killing yourselves, it means he had died in vain. Please accept one another, stop division and stop killing each other. God has come to us in the form of the visit of Pope Francis, Archbishop of Canterbury and Moderator General of the Church of Scotland. The three religious leaders later, participated in a joint interdenominational prayer session. This historic ecumenical visit by the prominent religious leaders is considered a sign of inter-religious unity and their commitment to bear witness to the Gospel, as well as an action to promote peace and reconciliation among the people of South Sudan. Police stepped up security Saturday as North Macedonia and Bulgaria commemorated a 19th-century revolutionary claimed by both neighbors as a hero at a ceremony expected to be attended by nationalists from the two countries. The two Balkan states have had tense relations since 2020, when European Union member Bulgaria blocked the start of accession talks with North Macedonia over disputes relating to history and language. Police sealed off the area around the Church of Holy Salvation in Skopje, where North Macedonian officials laid wreaths on the 151st anniversary of the birth of Goce Delcev, a revolutionary hailed by both countries as a national hero in the fight for liberation from the Ottoman rule. Orthodox priests conducted a religious ceremony near the tomb of Delcev, whose remains were exhumed and transferred to Skopje from the Bulgarian capital of Sofia in 1946. A Bulgarian delegation was expected to arrive later Saturday, in what would be the first time since 2019 that officials from both countries have commemorated Delcev together. Both countries last summer accepted a French compromise deal for settling their disputes, under which North Macedonia agreed to amend the constitution to recognize a Bulgarian minority and Bulgaria in turn lifted its veto on North Macedonia's EU accession talks. Though nationalists in both countries had opposed the deal, interstate relations had been improving until January, when a North Macedonian of Bulgarian ethnicity was beaten up by a group of assailants. The incident prompted Sofia to briefly recall its ambassador from Skopje. North Macedonian authorities said they would investigate the attack. Previous commemorations of Delcev have been peaceful, but some political analysts say the event has become a possible flashpoint this year due to what they describe as weak governments in both countries unable to garner wide support. Bulgaria in April faces a fifth parliamentary election in two years. KYODO NEWS - Feb 4, 2023 - 09:50 | All, Japan, Travel/Tourism The famed hot spring city of Gero is continuing its program of hiring a woman to work at city hall while training as a "maiko," or apprentice geisha, in a bid to revive the iconic Japanese tradition and drum up tourism. The hire, the second of its type in the unique local government project, is expected to work as a civil servant while learning dancing, singing and musical instruments for a maximum of three years. In the 1970s, the city in the central prefecture of Gifu had more than 200 geishas and apprentices. But that number has declined, leaving only three at present, including Marika Takemoto, 23, the first to be hired under the program. The city also says that past years have seen fewer tourists visiting in groups, which are generally geishas' customer base, shrinking opportunities for the kimono-clad women to display their graceful art. Takemoto, a Tokyo native who was hired in 2021 as part of Gero's tourism division, said she admired the maiko and was also interested in revitalizing rural areas. Takemoto has been focused on using social media to attract people to the hot spring resort which still retains vestiges of its ancient history. As an apprentice maiko, she is learning etiquette, dancing and folk songs. Being a state employee means she is unable to entertain private groups but she can perform in public. With the experience gained there and from her lessons, she can decide to continue on the path of a geisha after her time with the program ends. "I appreciate the depth of culture as I learn the manners and customs of a geisha," says Takemoto. "Novices are warmly welcomed. If there were more of us we could expand the types of performances we can offer and the things we can do. Let's liven things up together." Tetsuya Tominaga, who is leading the program at Gero's tourism division, said that geisha history and culture are important and should be passed on. The new hire starts in February and work in the program for three years at most. "If anyone has an interest, I encourage you to take your first step," Tominaga said. Related coverage: Hotel-shopping complex opens at Tokyo's Haneda airport Foreign entries into Japan surge 12-fold in 2022 on eased COVID steps Station near Nagoya Castle gets name change to ease visitor confusion Editor's note: Here is a fast take on what the international community has been up to this past week, as seen from the United Nations perch. Two years since Myanmar military coup The U.N. special rapporteur for Myanmar warned Tuesday that two years after its coup, Myanmars military will try to legitimize its hold on power through sham elections this year, and he urged the international community not to recognize or engage with the junta. Humanitarians await guidelines from Afghan Taliban on women aid workers The U.N. humanitarian chief said Monday he is awaiting a list of guidelines from Taliban authorities to allow Afghan women to work in the humanitarian sector, following a decree last month that has restricted their work. Martin Griffiths said he also asked Taliban officials if they are not going to rescind their decree now, then they should extend exemptions to cover all aspects of humanitarian work. Iran dismisses IAEA report Irans atomic energy organization on Wednesday dismissed a report by the United Nations nuclear watchdog that said Tehran had made an undeclared change to uranium enriching equipment at its Fordow plant. The IAEA said its inspectors found a modification to an interconnection between two clusters of centrifuges that was substantially different than what Iran had declared. Red Cross warns world dangerously unprepared for next pandemic The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies warned Monday in its World Disaster Report that the world is dangerously unprepared for the next pandemic, and this will have severe health, economic and social consequences for countries around the world. In brief The World Health Organization said Monday that COVID-19 continues to be a global health emergency. Following a meeting of the International Health Regulations Emergency Committee on January 27, WHO Chief Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said the pandemic is probably at a transition point that must be carefully navigated. The committee offered temporary recommendations including continuing vaccinations especially for high-risk groups. The health agency says as of January 29 there have been more than 753 million confirmed COVID-19 cases and over 6.8 million deaths globally. WHO also launched a new initiative Friday to reach the target of saving 2.5 million womens lives from breast cancer by 2040. The campaign seeks to promote early detection, timely diagnosis and comprehensive management of breast cancer. WHO says there are more than 2.3 million cases of breast cancer annually, making it the most common cancer among adults. In 95% of countries, breast cancer is the first or second leading cause of female cancer deaths. Survival rates vary dramatically both between and within countries, with nearly 80% of deaths from both breast and cervical cancer occurring in low- and middle-income countries. Saturday is World Cancer Day. The Food and Agriculture Organization said Friday that global food commodity prices had dropped in January for the 10th consecutive month. The FAO Food Price Index averaged 131.2 points in January, 0.8% lower than in December and 17.9% below its peak in March 2022. The price indices for vegetable oils, dairy and sugar drove the January decline, while those for cereals and meat remained largely stable. Wheat prices were down by 2.5% as production in Australia and Russia outperformed expectations. The FAO said low domestic prices could result in a small cutback in wheat plantings in Russia, the worlds largest exporter, while the impact of the Kremlins war in Ukraine are estimated to reduce winter wheat area plantings by 40%. Record plantings are forecast in India. The U.N. said that an inter-agency aid convoy delivered five truckloads of medications, shelter materials, tool kits, hygiene items and solar lamps to the Zaporizhzhia region in the southeast Ukraine on Thursday. The supplies are headed for people in Huliaipole, where about 3,000 people remain close to the front line. Humanitarians say the community has been without electricity and water since March, as power stations were damaged by fighting and cannot be repaired because of the ongoing hostilities. This is the second convoy this week to reach frontline communities, after a convoy reached Donetsk region on January 31. U.N. humanitarian chief Martin Griffiths will brief the U.N. Security Council on the humanitarian situation on February 6. What we are watching next week On February 6, U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres will brief member states on his priorities for the year ahead. With the world facing conflicts, inflation and climate catastrophes, look for him to amplify his calls for unity and urgent action. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken postponed his trip to Beijing after a Chinese balloon was discovered hovering in American airspace. Blinken said Friday that he told China's top diplomat, Wang Yi, in a phone call that the presence of the surveillance balloon in U.S. airspace was a "clear violation of U.S. sovereignty and international law," and he called it "an irresponsible act." Speaking at a news conference alongside visiting South Korean Foreign Minister Park Jin, Blinken said China's "decision to take this action on the eve of my planned visit is detrimental to the substantive discussions that we were prepared to have." Blinken, however, said the United States remained committed to engagement with China and added he would visit Beijing when conditions allowed. Earlier Friday, a senior State Department official said the United States had concluded that "the conditions are not right at this moment for Secretary Blinken to travel to China." The official said the decision was made after interagency consultations within the U.S. administration and with Congress. Blinken was expected to depart Washington for Beijing on Friday for meetings with Chinese leader Xi Jinping and other top officials. Officials did not say when they expected it to be rescheduled. "In the meantime, we will maintain open lines of communication with the PRC to address our concerns about this ongoing incident and to responsibly manage the competition between our countries," said the senior State Department official. China acknowledged Friday that the balloon U.S. officials tracked from Alaska down to Montana in recent days was theirs, although they said it was a weather balloon that had inadvertently strayed off course. The U.S. Defense Department has described it as an "intelligence-gathering balloon." The Pentagon is monitoring the balloon, which is traveling high above commercial air traffic routes. Officials said it did not pose a military or physical threat to people on the ground. Wednesday evening, Blinken and his deputy, Wendy Sherman, conveyed the U.S. concerns "clearly and directly" to PRC's senior official based in Washington. This was the first time such an incident had happened on the eve of a planned visit to China by the top U.S. diplomat. Another senior State Department official said the U.S. had hoped for a "constructive engagement" amid a broad, substantive agenda with the PRC, but this latest event "would have narrowed" the agenda in a way that it would have been "unhelpful and unconstructive." Sheila Ponnie JUBA, SOUTH SUDAN Pope Francis has arrived in South Sudan on his first trip to the worlds youngest country joined by the head of the Church of England and the Church of Scotland Moderator on a pilgrimage of peace. The pope arrived just a day after a regional official said 27 people were killed in communal violence. Pope Francis was received by top South Sudanese officials before heading to the residence of President Salva Kiir. The 86-year-old leader of nearly 1.4 billion Catholics will meet with South Sudans leaders on peace efforts and the humanitarian situation. Francis was accompanied by the leader of the Church of England, Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby. The duo will be joined by Moderator of the Church of Scotland, Reverend Iain Greenshields, who arrived in Juba earlier in the day. The Holy See is calling their unique trip a nondenominational pilgrimage of peace in South Sudan, a country still suffering from years of civil war. The three church leaders arrived just a day after a regional official said 27 people were killed in communal conflict in fueled by cattle theft. The killings took place in one of the counties in Central Equatoria, the administrative state of the capital, Juba. In a tweet, Welby said he was horrified at the deaths, calling it a story too often heard across South Sudan. The pope arrived from the Democratic Republic of Congo, where he spent several days this week, calling for forgiveness among warring parties, and holding a massive rally with Congolese youth. The popes visit to the two countries is part of the Vaticans efforts to help build lasting peace in the war-torn nations. Peace has been elusive to South Sudan since it gained independence from Sudan in 2011. South Sudanese have been waiting for the popes visit since last year. Francis was supposed to visit in July 2022 but had to push back the trip following a knee problem that has largely confined him to a wheelchair. HARARE, ZIMBABWE Jeers filled the air when lawmakers of the ruling ZANU-PF party celebrated after the Private Voluntary Organizations Amendment Bill, which regulates non-governmental organizations, passed in Zimbabwes Senate late Wednesday. The legislation, which still awaits President Emmerson Mnangagwa's signature, makes it a criminal offense for NGOs to support or oppose political parties or candidates in any election. Supporters say the legislation is designed to curb financing for terrorism and money laundering in Zimbabwe. Ziyambi Ziyambi, Zimbabwes justice minister, told Parliament after the bill passed that law-abiding NGOs have nothing to fear. All we are saying is: if you come and you say you want to assist in quotes water sanitation, you have not any business in getting into political lobbying, he said. So, we are saying: we want to follow the money where it is going. So, we believe that this is a progressive piece of legislation. But opposition lawmakers and human rights activists dont see it that way. Musa Kika, a human rights lawyer who heads the Zimbabwe Human Rights NGO Forum, said the law infringes on Zimbabweans basic rights. Our position is this law is unconstitutional, he said. It violates freedom of association. It violates citizens rights to organize and self-organize in spaces outside the state. So thats our position that this law cannot and will not stand constitutional scrutiny by an independent and any competent court. Kika said the process to enact the bill had been driven by the presidents office, and that parliament ignored Zimbabweans objections during public hearings on the proposed legislation. And the consequences for our country are going to be dire, he said. From a social protection point of view, from [a] diminished accountability point of view, even economic fortunes given that development support in Zimbabwe was contributing annually almost $1 billion. We are going to see a significant reduction in those that find Zimbabwe being a safe space for them to bring their development support. Kika said the NGOs in Zimbabwe are now at the mercy of the government. During the debate in Parliament, a member of the opposition, Morgen Komichi, said the new law would result in only the governments voice being heard. In a democracy, there should be different voices, he said. People should air their views. They should converge, discuss and plan their things. In last 42 years, Zimbabwe hasnt seen an organization which is a threat to government. Please do not enact this law.... Meanwhile, a top local official of the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) one of Zimbabwes major financiers said the legislation could have major consequences. Priscilla Sampil, acting director of USAID Zimbabwe, told a local newspaper this week that the agencys programs with local NGOs will be severely affected if President Mnangagwa signs the bill into law. USAID has provided $4.5 billion in support to Zimbabwe since 1980 for water and sanitation, HIV/AIDS and other health-related issues. The agency declined to comment to VOA for this story. Nearly 200 years ago, the U.S. government promised the Cherokee people a seat in Congress in exchange for their homelands. So far, it has not delivered. Today, the Cherokee people are calling for Congress to fulfill that promise. There is disagreement over which Cherokee tribes should get the seat In response to Russias war in Ukraine, the U.S. and NATO drastically ramped up defenses across eastern Europe. VOA Pentagon Correspondent Carla Babb got a firsthand look at how the closest U.S. troops to the war in Ukraine are holding the line with NATO allies. Festivities are being held at the Shanghai Disney Resort to celebrate the Year of the Rabbit. #SpringFestival Hot and spicy food from China has been warming up Londoners on another overcast winter day, as "Exploring Yummy Chongqing in London", part of the 2023 UK "Happy Chinese New Year" celebrations, officially kicked off here on Thursday. Produced by Xinhua Global Service Comment on this story Comment Gift Article Share In the middle of winter, on a cold, grey day, its easy to find yourself yearning for some summer warmth. Its also easy to forget the deadly heat. 2022 was Europes hottest summer on record, leading to more than 20,000 excess deaths across western Europe, and this summer could be even worse with the return of El Nino. The effects may be felt most in our cities, which are on average 1.5 degrees Celsius warmer than surrounding areas due to so-called urban heat islands (UHIs). Thats when building materials (concrete, asphalt, metal) and machinery (cars, trucks, air conditioning units) absorb and produce heat, turning city blocks into baking ovens. The heat is just one way in which cities can be unhealthy places to live; 4.3% of premature deaths in cities during the summer months are attributable to UHIs. Outdoor air pollution kills more than 4 million people a year. Noise causes the loss of more than 1.8 million healthy life years in Europe alone. Depending on where you live, you might be surrounded by shades of gray or trapped in a food desert. For many, when it comes to raising children or settling down, health, space and financial pressures make moving out of the city a very desirable option. Advertisement Thats a shame because cities arent just brilliant hubs of human activity; they also offer an incredibly efficient way of living. Studies have shown that people who live in cities have smaller carbon footprints than those in the suburbs and countryside. Urban dwellers walk more, cycle more and use public transport more than their suburban and rural counterparts. They also live in smaller homes with less stuff. Encouraging denser living could be a key part of the race to net zero carbon emissions. But if were going to convince people to live in them, we have to make cities more livable first. Plenty of solutions exist, but theres one powerful tool at our disposal that could help cool cities, reduce pollution and improve our mental and physical health: trees. A new study published in The Lancet shows just how effective trees would be at lessening the effects of climate change in urban areas. Increasing tree canopy cover to 30% of the city could reduce premature summer deaths in cities by about 40%, it finds, by reducing the temperatures through a combination of shading, evaporating water and removing sources of heat such as concrete and asphalt. Advertisement Satellite data has shown that 30% of tree coverage is a feasible target in the 93 cities covered in the study, but the average in Europe is still only 14.9%. Despite the relative simplicity, there are real barriers holding back urban forestry. Part of it comes down to competing urban interests, says Mark Nieuwenhuijsen, co-author of the study and director of urban planning, environment and health at the Barcelona Institute for Global Health. Cities have historically given priority to space for vehicles. Wide roads and car parks could be reduced to make way for foliage but, as battles over cycle lanes and low traffic neighborhoods in the UK have shown, that fight is politically charged. Theres also the expense. After buying and planting, new trees require maintenance. Like people, they can also find the urban environment difficult to survive in. In Lisbon, landscape architect Ana Luisa Soares estimates that each new tree costs the city about 2,000 ($2,180). Advertisement There are other ways of cooling the city via reflective roofs or whiter-than-white paint. But while these interventions should play a role in building climate-resilient cities, they dont quite deliver the full benefits package that trees do. In a 2011 study, Soares estimated the cost of maintaining trees at $1.9 million a year. The benefits came in at $8.4 million. Nieuwenhuijsen ran through a list of proven benefits: Not only are streets more aesthetically pleasing when theyre lined with trees, but there are proven benefits for mental health. Urban green spaces are also associated with a lower prevalence of diabetes, heart problems, better birth outcomes and improved cognitive functioning. Plus, trees are handy carbon stores that can also help prevent flash flooding another climate risk. The vital thing will be to ensure theres an equitable distribution of trees throughout the city. One huge forest park wont have the same beneficial effects of many tree-lined streets. Richer areas already tend to be greener than poorer ones, so theres a social justice element too in ensuring everyone has equal access to nature. Advertisement Cecil Konijnendijk, professor of urban forestry at the University of British Columbia, has suggested a 3-30-300 rule: Everyone should be able to see 3 trees from their window, live in a neighborhood with 30% tree cover and be 300 meters from a green space. But theres a lot of work to be done. In Barcelona for example, only 5% of people live somewhere that meets that standard. Making our cities more livable and sustainable will involve a lot of difficult decisions, about more than plant life. But considering trees can take decades to grow, we should get planting now. More From Bloomberg Opinion: Carbon Removal Is Where Green Investment Should Go: Lara Williams Biodegradable Plastics May End Up Doing More Harm Than Good: David Fickling The Next ESG Frontier Is Genetically Modified Food: Chris Hughes This column does not necessarily reflect the opinion of the editorial board or Bloomberg LP and its owners. Lara Williams is a Bloomberg Opinion columnist covering climate change. More stories like this are available on bloomberg.com/opinion 2023 Bloomberg L.P. GiftOutline Gift Article Comment on this story Comment Gift Article Share As Americans continue the necessary and difficult work of creating a more equitable and inclusive society, an unfortunate side effect has been the curtailment of free speech on high school and college campuses, and the emergence of pervasive self-censorship. Wp Get the full experience. Choose your plan ArrowRight Colleges continue to cancel controversial speakers and acquiesce to unreasonable student demands. In a recent poll by College Pulse, 80% of students reported that they self-censored. In a much-read New York Times op-ed article, Emma Camp, a senior at the University of Virginia, wrote: I welcomed an environment that champions intellectual diversity and rigorous disagreement. Instead students of all political persuasions hold back in class discussions, in friendly conversations, on social media from saying what we really think. But fewer Americans may know that the problem plagues high schools as well. In a recent Knight Foundation poll, only 19% of high school students were very comfortable voicing disagreement with ideas expressed by teachers or other students. A poll by Next Generation Politics, a student-run group in New York, found that 60% of students felt they could not express their opinions on a subject because of how students, teachers or the administration would respond. Advertisement Educators have been affected as well. In a recent RAND report, researchers found that controversies over subjects such as critical race theory, systemic racism and LGBTQ issues aggravated by vitriolic disagreement over Covid-19 responses have taken a heavy toll on teachers and principals, contributing to large numbers leaving the profession at a time of dire shortages. The report stated: On top of the herculean task of carrying out the essential functions of their jobs, educators increasingly find themselves in the position of addressing contentious, politicized issues in their schools as the United States has experienced increasing political polarization. Peter Senge, author of the foundational book on systems theory, The Fifth Discipline, posits 11 principles of systems theory. The first is todays problems come from yesterdays solutions. Thats exactly what we are seeing in schools: Our necessary effort to expand our students perspectives on diversity, equity and inclusion has been met with the new problem of an educational climate that has abandoned the traditional belief that people can disagree but still find common ground. This could have frightening consequences as future generations are taught either directly or more likely indirectly to self-censor and to engage in groupthink. Essential questions are being asked in our country, but if schools and colleges are unwilling to remain a place where those questions can be fully explored, where does the discourse take place? Advertisement This does not mean that the principles of DEI education for diversity, equity and inclusion shouldnt be included in the curriculum. In fact, quite the opposite. Deconstructing and reconstructing what we teach to include material from non-White sources, bringing in more non-White students and faculty, and creating equitable learning environments are crucial changes if schools are to align with the wider world. However, they must also do more to ensure that educators can navigate this academic minefield of rights in conflict. As the Head of School at the Birch Wathen Lenox School, a coeducational K-12 college prep institution in Manhattan, I have found this conflict is not dichotomous. An open forum of ideas can coexist with awareness and accountability in the curriculum. We fully embrace initiatives that are central to our programming and values while supporting students in learning how to think, not what to think. BWLs statement of social values, written in collaboration by teachers, students and administrators, proclaims, We embrace difficult conversations that faithfully promote intellectual and emotional risk-taking. Our teachers and students are trained in a variety of techniques to foster reasoned debate and constructive disagreement, and how not to get emotional, angry or shut others down because they disagree with ones viewpoints. One initiative, the Prefect Program, prepares 11th and 12th grade students to have difficult conversations with their peers and underclassmen about gender, politics and race. Advertisement Prefects are chosen through a rigorous application process, evaluated by grades, community standing and leadership skills; once selected, they get training from experienced faculty and outside consultants who specialize in constructive dialogue. As one senior noted, prefects help students have challenging conversations in class and the hallways because, from the first day of school, they open up and provide an open floor to talk and discuss problems to listen and remain judgment-free. We also employ programs such as Mindfulness Stress Based Reduction, which has been found in comprehensive studies to reduce stress, self-regulation, school-specific self-efficacy and interpersonal problems for students and teachers alike. For the faculty, we promote professional development on the Socratic Method and its effectiveness in fostering reasoned debate. As one teacher shared, I believe my seniors have grown as respectful communicators, its a wonderful thing. While a fixture of most students lives, social media is fertile ground for call-out culture and canceling their peers. We do not allow phones during school hours in middle school and limit their usage in the high school. Advertisement Concurrently, our commitment to having a diverse student body has grown stronger. Since 2018, BWL has increased the number of non-White students by one-third, going from 23% to 34% of total enrollment. We are certainly not alone in trying to foster constructive disagreement. For example, Suffern High School in Suffern, New York, partnered with the Constructive Dialogue Institute for a 10-month academic program. The students learned active listening and paraphrasing strategies, techniques to reset emotions in order to engage with challenging topics, and presented a capstone project at the end of the course. Schools do not have to choose between DEI curriculums and respect for free speech. But they need to make continuous efforts to ensure that the rights of all, including the right to hold unpopular opinions, are nurtured and respected. Advertisement More From Bloomberg Opinion: Higher Education Is Headed in the Wrong Direction: Tyler Cowen College Tuition Is Too High, But It Isnt Actually Rising: Matthew Yglesias Im Helping to Start a New College Because Higher Ed Is Broken: Niall Ferguson Want more Bloomberg Opinion? Subscribe to our daily newsletter. This column does not necessarily reflect the opinion of the editorial board or Bloomberg LP and its owners. Bill Kuhn is head of school at Birch Wathen Lenox, a K-12 college prep school in Manhattan. More stories like this are available on bloomberg.com/opinion 2023 Bloomberg L.P. GiftOutline Gift Article Comment on this story Comment Gift Article Share The federal government produced two notable documents on gun violence last week. The first, a report by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, provided a measure of the mayhem induced by the deregulation of firearms and the removal of strictures on virtually anyone wishing to possess them. The second, a ruling Thursday by the 5th US Circuit Court of Appeals, was a solemn promise of more chaos to come. The ATF report, which analyzed the years 2017 to 2021, noted the proliferation of ghost guns, which lack serial numbers and cant be traced, at crime scenes. Recoveries of ghost guns used in crimes rose by a factor of 10, from fewer than 2,000 in 2017 to almost 20,000 in 2021. The report also registered which semi-automatic pistols are preferred by criminals, with Glock leading the pack. But the preferences of criminals are only one element of gun violence. The recklessness of gun owners is also a key to fueling the illegal gun trade that, in turn, powers violent crime. Private citizens wind up supplying more than a quarter million guns to criminals every year. From 2017 to 2021, 1,074,022 firearms were reported stolen, the overwhelming majority from private gun owners. Remarkably, roughly 1 in 4 firearm thefts arent reported. Advertisement There are enough firearms stolen on an annual basis to arm all offenders who commit firearm homicides, firearm assaults, and firearm robberies each year, the ATF report states. Given the very large scale of firearm thefts in the US, it seems likely that stolen firearms are a significant source of firearms to violent criminals. A 2017 study by researchers at Northeastern University and Harvard found that people with a lot of guns are those most likely to lose them. Risk factors for having a gun stolen were owning 6 or more guns, owning guns for protection, carrying a gun in the past month, storing guns unsafely, and living in the South region of the United States, the study notes. In other words, if gun culture is your way of life, you are more likely to be an unwitting participant in criminal culture as well. Owning six guns, for example, is not uncommon among gun owners; the average is around five, according to a survey conducted in 2015 before a Covid-era spike in gun purchases. Advertisement Meanwhile, the ATF reported that the top five states for gun thefts are Mississippi, Alabama, Louisiana, South Carolina and Georgia. Those states have other factors in common, including permissive gun laws, high rates of gun ownership and high rates of gun violence. As Republican-led states have adopted guns-everywhere laws in recent years, and Americans have been encouraged to have guns perpetually at the ready , thieves have discovered a bounty in parked automobiles. The prevalence of guns is a key factor in violence. Regardless of the scenario, violent crimes in gun-rich communities are more likely to involve guns than in other communities, write veteran researchers Philip Cook and Harold Pollack in a 2017 analysis. The primary consequence of an assailants using a gun rather than a knife or club is the likelihood that the attack will be fatal. Guns intensify violence. Guns intensify violence is a good rule of thumb. Its also the promise that the 5th US Circuit Court just made to Americans. A three-judge panel of the appeals court ruled that violent domestic abusers cant be denied access to firearms. Society is complex, and few things are guaranteed, but the 5th Circuit ruling is close to a sure thing: It will produce deaths at home and perhaps, given the strong correlation between domestic violence and mass shootings, also death for strangers living far outside any particular abusers asserted realm of control. Advertisement The court adapted its opinion to conform to the Supreme Courts Bruen ruling of last year, in which Justice Clarence Thomas wrote that only gun laws with historical analogues to the founding era around 1791 and the so-called second founding around 1868 can pass constitutional muster. Its a ruling that enshrines our ancestors brutality and misogyny (women couldnt vote and had few rights in either era) in 21st century America. The 5th Circuit ruling appears wholly consistent with Thomass reactionary logic; after all, abusive husbands werent denied guns in 1791 or 1868. Its hard to see how the Supreme Court can overturn the ruling without inviting even more legal mockery than Bruen produced. The crude effect of the 5th Circuit opinion seems clear: It will arm violent men and put their current or former partners at greater risk. The almost certain result will be intensified violence. At some point the relentless, mad drive to make America more violent must stop. But that end is not yet in sight. More From Bloomberg Opinion: Advertisement The US Needs to Keep Guns Out of Little Hands: Editorial We Already Know Which Gun Policies Work: Francis Wilkinson Give Police Money for Realistic Gun Training: Stephen L. Carter This column does not necessarily reflect the opinion of the editorial board or Bloomberg LP and its owners. Francis Wilkinson is a Bloomberg Opinion columnist covering U.S. politics and policy. Previously, he was an editor for the Week, a writer for Rolling Stone, a communications consultant and a political media strategist. More stories like this are available on bloomberg.com/opinion 2023 Bloomberg L.P. GiftOutline Gift Article Comment on this story Comment Gift Article Share Lilly Ledbetter is 80. And she couldnt believe that she was back at the U.S. Supreme Court, standing on the marble steps that bring back such awful memories. Wp Get the full experience. Choose your plan ArrowRight I had to come back, she said, in the Alabama drawl she says shes finally made peace with. Didnt think I would, but here we are. Ledbetter returned to Washington because shes also making peace with the truth that the battle for equal pay is a long way from over. She is the face of equal pay. The underpaid woman who fought back. A hero for workers on Labor Day. But 10 years after a law named for her was enacted to help close Americas wage gap, little has changed. For American women. Or for Ledbetter herself. It was 11 years ago that she left the Supreme Court in defeat, after the majority ruled in favor of the men who discriminated against her for two decades at the Goodyear Tire and Rubber Co. plant in Gadsden, Ala. They knowingly paid her up to 40 percent less than all the men with equal jobs in her division. Advertisement The reason she lost? She didnt complain about it within the 180-day deadline required under the Equal Pay Act of 1963, the one that was supposed to fix all this 55 years ago. It was a cruel decision given that so much of the persistent gender wage gap studies show that women still make 79 cents to every dollar an American man makes goes unchecked because of our culture of salary secrecy. You know its true. Unless youre a boss, you probably have no clue what your co-workers make, even if yall are friends. We simply dont talk about it. Ledbetter knows this. And she also knows that the highest court in the land, which did nothing for her, is unlikely to help the rest of us. And thats why she came back to Washington, to those steps. Because confirmation hearings begin for Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh on Tuesday, right after Labor Day. Advertisement Im here to say that Brett Kavanaugh is not the one we need in the Supreme Court, she said at a rally organized by labor unions and the National Womens Law Center to oppose Kavanaughs nomination. The Supreme Courts decision is the reason she cant afford home repairs today, the reason her retirement savings and Social Security checks are shockingly smaller than the ones the retired guys from her plant get (even the guys who were her underlings). The Supreme Court those five people changed the direction of my life, she told me. They changed who I am. She came because of Kavanaughs judicial record as an appeals court judge. In employment discrimination claims, Judge Kavanaughs opinions over the years typically favored the employer, said an analysis done by Littler Mendelson P.C., a law firm that often represents employers in labor disputes. Advertisement Ledbetter was one of the few female supervisors at the Goodyear plant in 1979. And for two decades, she dodged pawing from male colleagues, put her head down and worked. Until someone left her an anonymous, handwritten note comparing her salary to the pile of dough her male co-workers were making. Even the lowest-paid guy in her division made more than her. Newbies made more. So she sued. And the jury in the Alabama District Court agreed that she was being shafted and awarded her about $300,000 in back pay. Goodyear, however, appealed all the way to the Supreme Court on the 180-day technicality. Hung up on those 180 days, the Supreme Court ruled in the tire makers favor in 2007. That year, Sen. Barack Obama proposed legislation that would allow workers to sue whenever they learned theyd been cheated. He signed the Lilly Ledbetter Act into law nine days after he was sworn in as president. Advertisement That did nothing for Ledbetter herself, of course. She knew it was too late for her that this bill wouldnt undo the years of injustice she faced or restore the earnings she was denied, Obama said back then. But this grandmother from Alabama kept on fighting, because she was thinking about the next generation. She still gets emails, letters and calls from people whose lives have been changed by the law. Her favorite came from a pair of educators in New York. The husband told Ledbetter that he had joined his wife at the school where shed been teaching for years, and he thought it was an error when his first paycheck came, and it was so much more than his wifes paycheck, even though she was equally qualified and his senior. Oh, yes, the men are the first in line to tell me how much it means to them for their daughter and wives to be paid fairly, she said. Advertisement The outlook for pay equity is discouraging. Last year the Trump administration reversed a 2016 rule introduced by Obama that would have required companies to include breakdowns by gender and race in pay data reported to the government. It would have exposed pay differences among about 63 million American workers. There are so, so many people who are in the same boat as me, she said. The cost of living goes up and up and up. Its a struggle for people in the middle, on down. And I know firsthand that in a place like the Supreme Court, decisions are made that can hurt us. And thats why she came back to those steps. Read more Petula Dvorak: GiftOutline Gift Article The United States is finally ready to take the plunge when it comes to electric vehicles. But our flawed EV charging system is standing in the way. The Senate of the Dominican Republic on Thursday thanked China for its support in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic. Produced by Xinhua Global Service Visitors to the new Singapore Art Fair were greeted by a large Robert Indiana sculpture spelling out the word LOVE. It was an invitation to locals and visitors to share a love of contemporary art that has struggled to take root in this prosperous island state. This time around, there was no room for hesitation. Ever since Singapore signalled its intentions to become a culture hub with the establishment of a National Arts Council in 1991, it has worked tirelessly to promote an interest in the visual arts. The Singapore Art Museum was opened in 1996, and the National Gallery in 2015. There have been seven Singapore Biennales since 2006, the most recent named Natasha - runs until March 19. The year 2011 saw the first iteration of Art Stage, an Asian contemporary art fair devised by Lorenzo Rudolf, a Swiss entrepreneur who was one of the founders of the successful Art Basel franchise. Rudolf raised the idea in 1992 and would spend nine years convincing the government that Art Stage was a viable proposition. The fair would get through eight editions before it was cancelled one week before the ninth Art Stage was due to open in January 2019, leading to a colossal meltdown in relations between Rudolf and his Singaporean hosts. The first big achievement of Art SG was to secure 164 exhibitors, by far the largest group of galleries to be assembled in Singapore. This month saw Singapore re-enter the contemporary art fair circuit, big time, with the inaugural edition of Art SG. One of the major motivations for trying again has been the problems that have befallen Singapores great rival, Hong Kong. During the past decade, as Hong Kongs Art Basel fair has grown in global importance, Singapore has struggled to compete. This is partly because of Hong Kongs liberal approach to taxes and duties, but also because of a fundamental difference in the level of popular support. Despite the governments sustained focus on the arts, it has proven difficult for Singapore to build audiences. Paul Rudd quickly lost track of the number of autographs and selfies he provided in the first couple of days of his visit to Australia. Thats a good question, the Hollywood actor now best known as Marvel superhero Ant-Man, aka Scott Lang, said. You start to lose count after the first thousand. Paul Rudd in Sydney on Thursday. Credit: Getty Rudd and co-star Jonathan Majors attended a buzzy fan event in Sydney on Thursday night and spent the best part of two hours on the red carpet. Then, with director Peyton Reed, they introduced 20 minutes of scenes from new movie Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania. The third standalone Ant-Man movie, it is the start of what the Disney-owned studio grandly calls Phase Five of the Marvel Cinematic Universe after the saving-humanity-from-Thanos events of 2019s epic Avengers: End Game. Save Log in , register or subscribe to save articles for later. Save articles for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them any time. Got it Normal text size Larger text size Very large text size Life is short, but February is shorter. The cleaning month, according to the Romans, who practised atonement and purification. Its also Groundhog Day (Feb 2) and Valentines Day (Feb 14), a good match for some of the more cerebral of this months movies, where there is a lot of recrimination, regret and sadness. No doubt, its a sombre month in movie-land, although the tougher films come from A-list directors: Darren Aronofsky, Steven Soderbergh, Sarah Polley and newcomer Charlotte Wells, who has won extravagant praise for her debut feature, Aftersun. Brendan Fraser stirs the usual controversy in a teacup with The Whale. And the Oscar nominees are out, so its time to tick off the contenders. Find out the next TV, streaming series and movies to add to your must-sees. Get The Watchlist delivered every Thursday. The Whale The latest from Darren Aronofsky, who brought us The Fountain, The Wrestler, Black Swan and Mother! The Whale is his first feature in five years and it has generated a lot of talk, with Brendan Fraser playing a morbidly obese English teacher whos trying to reconnect with his daughter. Fraser wore a fat suit for the role, so he and Aronofsky have been copping criticism for not using an obese actor - somewhat predictably. Reviews have been positive, but not uniformly so. Opens February 2. Advertisement The Honeymoon The latest from British comedy writer Dean Craig, who wrote Death at a Funeral. His recent films have also died, but this one might be worth a peek: it looks raucous and ridiculous, with some good physical comedy. A newlywed couple heads to Venice on honeymoon; the grooms oafish friend crashes the party and things go south from there. Asim Chaudhry plays the friend. Opens February 2. Magic Mikes Last Dance Steven Soderbergh returns to the directors chair he vacated after the original Magic Mike ten years ago. Channing Tatum brings the beef (for the last time?) as the stripper with a heart of gold. Salma Hayek plays the woman who wants to help him take his act to the London stage. The promo line says its the final tease, but we shall see. There have been rumblings about spin-offs with characters other than Magic Mike. The series will probably go on as long as it has legs - and pecs, biceps and butts. Just shoot me. Opens February 9. The Son Advertisement French playwright and director Florian Zeller wrote and directed The Father, based on his own play. Christopher Hampton helped to adapt it to an English setting. In The Son, Hugh Jackman plays a man who walked out on his marriage, some years earlier. Now his ex-wife (Laura Dern) asks him to help with their troubled 17-year-old son (Zen McGrath), whom he barely knows. Zeller is once again directing his own work, adapting the play with Hampton. Fans of The Father will be lining up. Anthony Hopkins makes an appearance. Opens February 9. Women Talking This could be the film of the month. Its based on a true story. At a strict and conservative Mennonite colony in Bolivia, some women discover theyve been drugged and raped by their own menfolk. The women meet to work out what to do: stay, leave, fight back? Canadian actress, writer and director Sarah Polley has assembled a glistening cast: Claire Foy, Rooney Mara, Frances McDormand, Ben Whishaw, Judith Ivey. It has been nominated for best picture and best adapted screenplay for the coming Oscars, which surprised even its director. Looks intense. Opens February 16. Close Advertisement Nominated for best international feature film at the Oscars (which are on March 13). Two 13-year-old boys, Leo and Remi, have an intense but innocent friendship that becomes complicated when they get to high school. Its the second feature of Belgian director Lukas Dhont, who based it on his experiences as a teenager. It won the Grand Jury prize at Cannes (the second prize) and the Sydney Film Festival Prize at last years Sydney Film Festival. Opens February 16. Knowing the Score This is Janine Hoskings biographical documentary on Australian conductor Simone Young, who stormed the citadels of classical music, kicking down doors and punching through ceilings. Is she the real life version of the character Cate Blanchett plays in Tar? Not quite, even though Blanchett executive produced the documentary. At one point, Young responds to the gender question with a memorable line: What does being a woman have to do with conducting? My tits dont get in the way. Looks terrific. Opens February 16. Winnie the Pooh: Blood and Honey Is nothing sacred? Winnie the Pooh reborn as a slasher movie? How is that even possible, when Disney owns the rights to the original books? Actually, the first book entered public domain in the US in January last year. So here we have a grown-up Christopher Robin returning to the Hundred Acre Wood to find that Pooh and Piglet have never forgiven him for leaving. They take bloody revenge on a group of women renting a cottage nearby. Looks to be completely scurrilous and appalling - so just right for the horror crowd. Opens February 16. Advertisement West Australian Catholic schools will not be required to ban the latest development in artificial intelligence from their classrooms after the controversial website ChatGPT sparked national debates around academic cheating. The state government revealed last week the technology would be banned in all public schools across WA. ChatGPT will be banned in public schools in WA, but not in Catholic schools. Credit: iStock WA Education Department director general Lisa Rodgers told ABC Radio Perth the website would be blocked using a firewall. Theres no doubt its incredible technology ... and it could present exciting opportunities, but for us, we consider a lot of third-party applications ... in this case, Ive asked for access to be blocked, she said. Since 2000, 20 people have been killed in shark attacks off the WA coast. February 4, 2023: Schoolgirl Stella Berry, 16, was fatally mauled by a suspected bull shark while swimming with a pod of dolphins in the Swan River near the old Fremantle Traffic Bridge. November 6, 2021: Swimmer Paul Millachip is killed in a shark attack at Fremantles Port Beach. The attack is witnessed by a group of teenagers on a boat, but the 57-year-olds body is never found. November 22, 2020: A swimmer was killed after he was bitten on the hand and thigh at Broomes Cable Beach. The man was pulled from the water and treated by paramedics, but he died from his injuries. October 9, 2020: Surfer Andrew Sharpe, 40, went missing at popular surf break Kelp Beds at Wylie Beach in Esperance, with authorities believing he was taken by a shark after widespread reports of a sighting at the beach and the recovery of his surfboard. As the constitutional lawyer George Williams of UNSW said a few years ago: We have donations laws you could drive a truck through. And sure enough, the truck just got bigger. Clive Palmer didnt worry about secrecy. On the contrary, hes there for the attention. As this weeks returns from the Australian Electoral Commission show, Palmers company donated $117 million in the 2021-22 financial year, and hes out and proud about it. Mining magnate and former federal MP Clive Palmer dominated the political donations pool. Credit: Scott McNaughton And why bother with the Coalition or Labor if you have your own political party? His companys donation, by far the single biggest in the nations history, allowed Palmers party to outspend Labor and Liberal in last years federal election campaign. Thats right Palmers party became the biggest spender in Australian political history. Where Labor spent $116 million and the Liberals $118 million, Palmers United Australia Party altogether spent $123.5 million. Palmer boasted before the election that hed spend over $100 million in 2022: Its only a couple of months work for me, he explained to a reporter in between launching attacks on COVID vaccinations. Perhaps we should qualify his use of the word work here; so-called work, perhaps. Chinas CITIC pays Palmers company $600 million a year in mining royalties. Loading Palmer spent $88 million on his partys campaign at the 2019 election. He and his party won precisely zero seats in spite of this enormous outlay. Yet he seemed happy with the result. His main achievement was helping Scott Morrison defeat Bill Shorten by running strident anti-Shorten ads. Now Palmer planned to outdo himself in the 2022 election. Sitting on his $100 million yacht in Sydney Harbour, he explained how he liked to run his campaigns: I get up at 2am, he told John Stensholt of The Australian, and spent my first hour thinking about all the nasty things I can do to the Liberal Party or the Labor Party. Then from 3 to 4am I actually do it, writing the ads and other things. Youd have seen his campaign ads, in a distinctive yellow livery approximately the colour of sick, with their compelling punchline: Freedom freedom freedom. Perhaps he should have tried an extra hour or twos sleep. Despite fielding candidates in all 151 federal electorates, and despite outspending the Labor and Liberal campaigns, the Palmer United Party won no seats in the House of Representatives and just one seat in the Senate. As a senior Liberal observes: Money is very important in an election but, while its necessary, its not sufficient. You need campaigning skill and a good product with policies and personnel. Clive Palmers donations helped Scott Morrisons return to The Lodge. Credit: Alex Ellinghausen After Palmers $88 million splurge in 2019 helped return Scott Morrison to The Lodge, I asked a member of the Liberals leadership group whether there needed to be any limits on the size of donations. No, he assured me, the system was working as it should. In other words, it worked for him. But next time, I ventured, a pro-climate billionaire might emerge as a new force with a vast war chest and put you out of power. Would you still have the same opinion? Yes, the system works well, he replied. A pro-climate billionaire didnt emerge the next time. At least two did, Atlassian co-owners Scott Farquhar and Mike Cannon-Brookes, and they donated to the independent teals. None of the rich pro-climate donors gave more than $1.5 million apiece. More importantly, they were part of a movement to remove the Morrison government and install independents who supported climate action, integrity and justice for women. Loading Rather than ape Palmers swaggering ineptitude, the wealthy businessman Holmes a Court and his Climate 200 coordinated a series of well-crafted community-based campaigns. I think most people were offended by what Palmer did, Holmes a Court tells me. There was no coherent ideology or community it was one mans folly. After Palmer, Climate 200 was the single biggest disclosed donor. Its total outlay was $13 million, all to teal independents. Of that, Holmes a Court gave just $250,000. Yet this group managed to power the campaigns that put six new teals in the House and David Pocock in the Senate. Every one of them took a seat from the Liberal Party, including some of their most prized traditional heartland seats. I started Climate 200 with a very different model, says Holmes a Court. We dont select candidates. The communities in the individual electorates chose their own. Why have we had so few independents in parliament before now? Partly its because its almost impossible to run a credible campaign against the major machines. Loading We were there very early in the campaigns. We ran matching challenges such as giving a dollar for every local dollar raised and helped them get their finances in shape. We provided less than half 30 to 40 per cent of the funding for the teal independents. Among those offended by Palmers campaigns was the man charged with reforming the system, the Albanese governments Special Minister of State Don Farrell, who also serves as trade minister. We have to be careful that rich people cant simply buy election results that ordinary Australians cant, he tells me. I think its opportune to look at how much money is being spent by individual rich people. The risk is that, if you dont fix it, it just snowballs and, next time, another rich person says all right, Ill do the same but with more. Of Palmer, Farrell doesnt try to disguise his distaste: He doesnt make his redundancy payments, but he spends $117 million to buy a single Senate seat how shocking is that? Palmers Queensland Nickel went into voluntary administration in 2016 without paying its 800 workers their entitlements. The Queensland government stepped in to pay them. Palmer later settled a lawsuit by agreeing to repay $66 million to the state to compensate Queensland taxpayers. Does the Liberal Party still think the system is working as it should? Now that it worked against them, senior Liberals say they are open to reform. Farrell has other changes in mind, too. Labor earlier promised to introduce real-time disclosure of donations and to reduce the disclosure threshold from $15,200 to $1000. The Liberals are open to negotiating with Labor over the changes, provided they create a level playing field for both parties. Holmes a Court worries that they will create new barriers to independents who want to break into the system; hes keeping Climate 200 running. Farrell hopes to have the changes legislated by the end of the year. One thing is for sure. Clive Palmer wont be happy. Greens Senator Lidia Thorpe has demanded that none of her fellow Greens MPs, including another Indigenous senator, meet with Indigenous community members about the Voice to parliament, insisting only she was allowed to do so. Thorpes argument relied on the fact that she is the partys First Nations spokeswoman, a position that is under scrutiny after the formal deal struck last week that gives Thorpe free rein to campaign against the proposal while the Greens decide if they will support the referendum. The Greens will announce their stance next week. Senator Lidia Thorpe and Greens leader Adam Bandt struck a deal allowing her free rein to campaign against the Voice. Credit: Alex Ellinghausen In deciding where the Greens stand on the referendum, party leader Adam Bandt must reckon with Thorpes Indigenous activist base, who reject the Voice and demand treaty first, while maintaining the support of mainstream Greens voters who support the Voice much more strongly than Labor voters, according to polling. Tokyo: Japanese police have put former Greens candidate Donna Nelson under a three-month access ban, restricting her contact with family and visitors as they investigate drug trafficking charges and her links to a syndicate believed to be behind the operation. The Indigenous leader was arrested at Narita airport near Tokyo in January where she was allegedly found with up to two kilograms of drugs stashed inside a bag. West Australian woman and Aboriginal community leader Donna Nelson. Japanese police rarely place access bans on travellers arrested at airports but the volume of stimulants being carried by Nelson forced authorities to limit her contact with friends and family. The only person who will be able to see the 56-year-old for the next three months is her court-appointed lawyer, whom Japanese authorities have declined to identify. Nelsons family claim the Ballardong Njaki-Njaki woman was groomed and duped by a Nigerian love scammer known as Kelly for two years before she was arrested on January 4. The grandmother was offered an all-expenses-paid business class trip to Japan via Singapore, Vietnam, and Laos by Kelly who she had met on a dating app. People participate in a traditional Htamane (sticky rice) making competition at the Shwedagon Pagoda in Yangon, Myanmar, Feb. 3, 2023.(Photo by Myo Kyaw Soe/Xinhua) YANGON, Feb. 3 (Xinhua) -- Myanmar held a traditional Htamane (sticky-rice) making competition at the country's famous Shwedagon Pagoda in Yangon on Friday evening after a two-year pause over the COVID-19 pandemic. The competition was suspended in 2021 and 2022, said U Htay Hlaing, a member of the pagoda's board of trustees, adding it is a Buddhist tradition as well as Myanmar people's tradition. A total of 24 six-member teams participated in the competition, accompanied by traditional music groups and fans, at the pagoda's compound. Yangon Region Chief Minister U Soe Thein attended the competition. Participants in the competition said that they will offer the food prepared in the competition to monks as well as pilgrims as charity food on Saturday morning at the pagoda. The traditional sticky rice-based savory food of Myanmar is usually ceremonially prepared around and on the full moon day of Tabodwe, the 11th month of the Myanmar lunar calendar, to celebrate the country's Htamane festival, which falls on Feb. 4 this year. Myanmar's traditional Htamane food is prepared by first washing and then soaking white and purple sticky rice. The sticky rice is then kneaded, crushed and boiled with water and ground nut oil in a giant wide wok on a low stove until it becomes a thick blackish-grey paste. Many of the Htamane competitions were also held across the Southeast Asian country on Friday. People participate in a traditional Htamane (sticky rice) making competition at the Shwedagon Pagoda in Yangon, Myanmar, Feb. 3, 2023. TO GO WITH "Myanmar holds traditional sticky rice-making competition after two-year pause" (Photo by Myo Kyaw Soe/Xinhua) Washington: Defence Minister Richard Marles has warned that Australias plan to acquire a fleet of nuclear-powered submarines faces a significant challenge to find the workforce needed to bring the ships to service, and that much more was needed to be done to ensure the success of the AUKUS pact. But weeks out from unveiling one of the most consequential national security strategies in decades, the Minister also signalled that the nations next submarines would lift the military capabilities of all three nations involved in the deal. Secretary of Defence Lloyd Austin, centre, welcomes Defence Minister Richard Marles at the Pentagon. Australia, the US and the UK would then be better positioned to take on growing threats in the Indo-Pacific. We are building a three-way ecosystem, and thats how people need to understand it, Marles said as he visited Washington on Friday to work through some of the final details of the pact with US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin and National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan. A train runs along Chongqing Rail Transit (CRT) Line 2 in Chongqing, southwest China, Feb. 20, 2022. (Xinhua/Tang Yi) CHONGQING, Feb. 3 (Xinhua) -- While tourists often awe at Liziba Station's Line 2 for the magic view of its trains passing through a building in southwest China's Chongqing Municipality, it's rarely known that the line is China's first monorail route, western China's first rail transit line, and also the starting point of the city's prosperous rail industry. In the last century, considering construction costs and efficient space utilization, Chongqing, a mountainous city with rugged terrain, dense buildings and narrow streets, decided to import the straddle-type monorail from Japan as its first rail transit system. "At that time, it was not easy for us to design and build the monorail because it was such a new thing. We took Japan's monorail for reference, but when Chongqing put its Line 2 in operation in 2004, we made all 19 trains, and only two were imported," recalled Xiao Jingfei, executive deputy general manager of Chongqing CRRC railway vehicles Co., Ltd. Starting as an apprentice in the industry, Chongqing made remarkable progress in monorail construction in the following years. The number of carriages for each train has increased from four to eight, and most of the monorail system's components are now self-developed. Currently, Chongqing has set a series of national standards for straddle-type monorails. Chongqing has 12 lines in its urban mass transit, and the total length of the operational lines has reached 478 km, making the city a world-class rail transit metropolis. Chongqing has launched China's first "As subway model" adapted to the mountainous terrain, China's first rail route that allows the train to run on both Alternating Current (AC) and Direct Current (DC) railways, and an inter-connected CBTC (Communication-Based Train Control) system that can integrate different lines' signals. "It is Chongqing's innovative and adventurous spirit that breeds an ideal development environment for us and stimulates us to research and develop new vehicle products," said Xiao, adding that their company saw its annual output increase to 2.1 billion yuan (about 312 million U.S. dollars) in 2022 from merely 10 million yuan when the company was established in 2007. UniTTEC, a company devoted to rail-transit signal systems, participated in a program aiming to form better connectivity of the CBTC system by integrating different lines' signals in Chongqing. "Chongqing pioneered breaking the technical barriers between different rail transit signal suppliers, indicating that the city's rail transit system is steering into a more intelligent future. This is also a major reason for us to settle in Chongqing last April," said Gu Yixin, general manager of UniTTEC Chongqing. "Due to Chongqing's special terrain, there lies huge space for us to develop multiple rail transit models and eco-friendly, intelligent, and low-carbon power supply systems for the sector," said Pan Gaofeng, general manager of Chongqing CRRC Times Electric Technology Co., Ltd., which joined the fray in March 2021 and garnered a total revenue of 320 million yuan that year alone. Chongqing's industrial equipment chain in the rail transit sector has expanded to over 80 companies ranging from design to construction and yielded an annual output of nearly 10 billion yuan in 2022, according to Chongqing City Transportation Development & Investment Group Co., Ltd. More opportunities still await Chongqing's rail transit sector thanks to the city's innovation-oriented development and pioneering spirit, according to He Xihe, chief expert of Chongqing Rail Transit Industrial Investment Co., Ltd. "Just take Chongqing's monorail as an example, it can have broad application prospects whether in foreign countries or third-tier or fourth-tier cities in China," He added. In 2025, the total length of the Chongqing rail transit system in operation and under construction is expected to exceed 1,000 km. The daily average passenger traffic of its rail transit in major urban districts will reach over 6 million travelers, accounting for more than half of the city's public transportation travel. JINAN, Feb. 4 (Xinhua) -- It has been a busy week for the employees of an artistic umbrella factory in east China's Shandong Province since they returned to work from the Spring Festival holiday on Jan. 28. An order of 6,000 lace umbrellas, placed by a Thai company, is scheduled to be shipped in a few days, said Tang Binjie, head of the factory in Dawenkou Township in Tai'an City. Factory employees were already swamped with work in the two months leading up to the Spring Festival, which fell on Jan. 22, Tang added. Tang, 45, is the fourth-generation inheritor of the Dawenkou lace craft, a municipal-level intangible cultural heritage. Dawenkou laceworks are decorative openworks knitted and woven with a variety of fabrics, including cotton, linen and silk threads. The craft has a history of more than 2,000 years. Now a renowned lace umbrella artisan, Tang, originally from a village in Dawenkou, learned the craft from his father as a child. Some years ago, he decided to return to his hometown to start a business, with the goal of passing down and developing the lace craft. In the beginning, he visited rural households in surrounding towns and villages every day to recruit skilled embroiderers. He managed to foster partnerships by paying embroiderers in advance for their work. Today, the Dawenkou lace craft is used to make a wide range of products. Tang's factory delivers fabrics to embroiderers' homes and later collects their works for sale. "I can get the job done at home and make money without leaving the house," said Hou Chunling, a 57-year-old embroiderer from Dawenkou's Shendong village. Hou makes more than 15,000 yuan (about 2,226 U.S. dollars) every year by making lace umbrellas. In recent years, Tang has integrated modern design with traditional craft to upgrade the product line, which now includes lace umbrellas and lace fans. He has also taken advantage of e-commerce platforms to break into the international market, establishing stable business relationships with clients in more than 10 countries, with an average annual order volume of more than 500,000 pieces. "The demand for our umbrellas now exceeds supply. We are booked solid with orders until June this year," Tang said. With the support of the township government, Tang has set up a studio to teach the lace craft to female residents who cannot leave Dawenkou to seek employment elsewhere or are temporarily unemployed. The studio has helped more than 300 people find a job close to home. "In the new year, we will intensify training of embroiderers, continue to expand our business internationally, and pursue innovations in product design," Tang said. "We shall aim to continue to inject vitality into the traditional lace craft and help more villagers increase their income," he added. HONG KONG, Feb. 4 (Xinhua) -- John Lee, chief executive of China's Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), said on Saturday that visiting Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) will bring opportunities to Hong Kong. Lee made the remarks before departing for an eight-day visit to the two countries. During his visit, Lee will meet with government officials, visit enterprises, and attend forums and exchange activities to introduce Hong Kong's latest developments and business opportunities. Lee said he hopes to seek and promote development opportunities and create more business opportunities for Hong Kong through this visit. He said that this visit demonstrates the HKSAR's proactive participation in China-proposed Belt and Road Initiative. Tourists pose for photos at Liaohe ancient street in Yingkou, northeast China's Liaoning Province, Feb. 3, 2023. The Liaohe ancient street has been decorated with various lanterns to greet the Lantern Festival, the 15th day of the first month of the Chinese lunar calendar, which falls on Feb. 5 this year. (Xinhua/Yao Jianfeng) Tourists pose for photos in front of a lantern at Liaohe ancient street in Yingkou, northeast China's Liaoning Province, Feb. 3, 2023. The Liaohe ancient street has been decorated with various lanterns to greet the Lantern Festival, the 15th day of the first month of the Chinese lunar calendar, which falls on Feb. 5 this year. (Xinhua/Yao Jianfeng) Tourists view lanterns at Liaohe ancient street in Yingkou, northeast China's Liaoning Province, Feb. 3, 2023. The Liaohe ancient street has been decorated with various lanterns to greet the Lantern Festival, the 15th day of the first month of the Chinese lunar calendar, which falls on Feb. 5 this year. (Xinhua/Yao Jianfeng) Tourists view lanterns at Liaohe ancient street in Yingkou, northeast China's Liaoning Province, Feb. 3, 2023. The Liaohe ancient street has been decorated with various lanterns to greet the Lantern Festival, the 15th day of the first month of the Chinese lunar calendar, which falls on Feb. 5 this year. (Xinhua/Yao Jianfeng) A child views lanterns at Liaohe ancient street in Yingkou, northeast China's Liaoning Province, Feb. 3, 2023. The Liaohe ancient street has been decorated with various lanterns to greet the Lantern Festival, the 15th day of the first month of the Chinese lunar calendar, which falls on Feb. 5 this year. (Xinhua/Yao Jianfeng) A tourist poses for photos in front of a lantern at Liaohe ancient street in Yingkou, northeast China's Liaoning Province, Feb. 3, 2023. The Liaohe ancient street has been decorated with various lanterns to greet the Lantern Festival, the 15th day of the first month of the Chinese lunar calendar, which falls on Feb. 5 this year. (Xinhua/Yao Jianfeng) Tourists view a lantern at Liaohe ancient street in Yingkou, northeast China's Liaoning Province, Feb. 3, 2023. The Liaohe ancient street has been decorated with various lanterns to greet the Lantern Festival, the 15th day of the first month of the Chinese lunar calendar, which falls on Feb. 5 this year. (Xinhua/Yao Jianfeng) Tourists view lanterns at Liaohe ancient street in Yingkou, northeast China's Liaoning Province, Feb. 3, 2023. The Liaohe ancient street has been decorated with various lanterns to greet the Lantern Festival, the 15th day of the first month of the Chinese lunar calendar, which falls on Feb. 5 this year. (Xinhua/Yao Jianfeng) A tourist poses for photos at Liaohe ancient street in Yingkou, northeast China's Liaoning Province, Feb. 3, 2023. The Liaohe ancient street has been decorated with various lanterns to greet the Lantern Festival, the 15th day of the first month of the Chinese lunar calendar, which falls on Feb. 5 this year. (Xinhua/Yao Jianfeng) Lanterns are seen at Liaohe ancient street in Yingkou, northeast China's Liaoning Province, Feb. 3, 2023. The Liaohe ancient street has been decorated with various lanterns to greet the Lantern Festival, the 15th day of the first month of the Chinese lunar calendar, which falls on Feb. 5 this year. (Xinhua/Yao Jianfeng) Tourists view a lantern at Liaohe ancient street in Yingkou, northeast China's Liaoning Province, Feb. 3, 2023. The Liaohe ancient street has been decorated with various lanterns to greet the Lantern Festival, the 15th day of the first month of the Chinese lunar calendar, which falls on Feb. 5 this year. (Xinhua/Yao Jianfeng) Tourists view lanterns at Liaohe ancient street in Yingkou, northeast China's Liaoning Province, Feb. 3, 2023. The Liaohe ancient street has been decorated with various lanterns to greet the Lantern Festival, the 15th day of the first month of the Chinese lunar calendar, which falls on Feb. 5 this year. (Xinhua/Yao Jianfeng) UW-Madison and the U.S. Navy have ended a controversial study involving sheep and oxygen decompression because they allowed the funding to lapse, despite activists taking credit for taking down the project. Earlier this week, animal activist group People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) put out a statement saying its protests had pushed the Navy to nix the partnership with UW-Madison. But it was scientific and logistical challenges that prompted the university and the Navy to jointly agree to end the experiments, Michelle Ciucci, UW-Madison Animal Program faculty director said. The study, which involved putting sheep in hyperbaric chambers simulating ocean depths, examined how the oxygen in their blood reacted to the reduction of atmospheric pressure, a condition commonly called the bends. The goal of the study was to determine safe ways to rescue Navy personnel who could be trapped in submarines deep in the ocean, Ciucci said. Sheep were used in the experiments because they have complex cardiovascular and respiratory systems similar to those in humans. This is vitally important data that can mean the difference of life and death for Navy personnel, she said. This was a feasibility study of submarine rescue, and really, it showed us that it was very technically challenging, and it didnt provide all the data wed hoped. Nadine Connor, UW-Madison associate vice chancellor for research policy and compliance, said the tests ended in March 2022 when the contract period lapsed. A U.S. Navy spokesperson said in a statement the contract for the project came to a "natural conclusion." "The safety and health of our Sailors and Marines is the Navy's highest priority," the U.S. Navy spokesperson said. "The impetus for these studies was to assess whether emergency procedures developed through modeling would safely and successfully allow submariners trapped in a disabled submarine on the sea floor to escape or be rescued." In its statement cheering the end of the experiments, PETA vice president Shalin Gala called on the Navy to prohibit any research on animals. That sheep will no longer have the life literally squeezed out of them in crude and archaic decompression tests at UW-Madison is cause for celebration, Gala said. UW-Madison has been doing decompression experiments with sheep going back to the 1970s. The Navys recreational diving tables are partly based off UW-Madison sheep compression research, Ciucci said. Studies halted Local controversy over the sheep experiments ensued when PETA petitioned Dane County Circuit Court Judge Amy Smith to look into them in 2010. Activists claimed then the experiments violated a state law making the death of animals by decompression illegal, prompting UW-Madison at that point to halt its studies. Following a yearlong investigation, the court scolded the university for not keeping a database of pertinent state and federal laws regarding animal treatment but declined to bring criminal charges against nine researchers. UW-Madison resumed sheep testing in 2012 after petitioning the state Legislature to carve out an exemption in the statutes for university researchers. PETA also claimed a pair of sheep were euthanized following a test. Ciucci could not confirm details about the deaths of the sheep, but explained that per research protocol, if animals show signs of distress or risk of serious injury during experiments, researchers stop and euthanize them. The reason those data are important is because we then know thats where the immediacy comes in, Ciucci said. The sailors trapped in a submarine at the bottom of an ocean need to be rescued ASAP. Recent violations PETA has not accused UW-Madison of criminal wrongdoing in its sheep experiments since 2010, but the last few years have brought fines for violating federal animal research treatment standards. In July 2020, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) fined UW-Madison $74,000 for violating standards between 2015 and 2019. Violations stemmed from staff errors or equipment failures resulting in monkeys escaping their cages or becoming dehydrated after losing access to water. In one case, a monkey was found dead after being returned to a cage after its cage-mate wounded it so deeply its vertebrae was exposed. PETA and an Ohio-based animal activist group, Stop Animal Exploitation Now (SAEN), alleged more abuses in August and September 2020 after claiming one of its investigators had worked undercover at the universitys Wisconsin National Primate Research Center. The USDA has not levied any new fines against the university for these alleged incidents. As a history and English double major at William & Mary, Samantha Boateng was involved with the African Cultural Society, danced with the Aphrodite Dance Team, volunteered with Griffin School Partnerships and served as a resident assistant. During her time at the university, she had two different internships with the U.S. Department of State and was the recipient of two scholarships that enabled her to pursue her research interests abroad. Perhaps Samanthas biggest accomplishment as a student was founding Read 2 Lead, a nonprofit organization that promotes a love of reading by providing access to books to children in Ghana. Through Read 2 Lead, Samantha has built two libraries (with a third underway) that have given thousands of Ghanaian people access to resources that they never would have had otherwise. Currently based in Washington, D.C., Samantha continues her work with Read 2 Lead while working for Amazon as a community manager. Learn more about Samantha A St. Peters animal rescue shelter that endured devastating flooding and the tragic loss of 10 puppies is looking to the future. BRUSSELS, Feb. 3 (Xinhua) -- The North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) on Friday called on Russia to respect its treaty with the United States on nuclear weapons, which contributes to international stability. NATO ambassadors said in a statement that "We note with concern that Russia has failed to comply with legally-binding obligations under the New START Treaty." The New Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty (New START) was signed by Russia and the United States in 2010. The last remaining nuclear arms control treaty in force between the two nuclear superpowers can be extended by a maximum of five years with the consent of the two countries. Russia and the United States officially extended the treaty by five years on Feb. 3, 2021. The ambassadors said that Russia's refusal to hold consultations or to allow U.S. inspections since last August "prevents the United States from exercising important rights under the treaty, and undermines the United States' ability to adequately verify Russian compliance with the treaty's central limits." "We call on Russia to fulfil its obligations under the treaty by facilitating New START inspections on Russian territory, and by returning to participation in the treaty's implementation body," NATO said. Earlier this week, Moscow accused the United States of undermining the principles of implementing the treaty. Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova said that Moscow remains committed to the treaty but does not see the same commitment from Washington. On Thursday night, French Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne appeared as a guest on France2 televisions lEvenement programme to insist that she would impose the governments widely hated pension reform in the face of massive popular opposition. An opinion poll published by BFM-TV on Wednesday found 71 percent of the French population oppose the reform. Borne's determination to run roughshod over the opposition of the workers exposes the anti-democratic character of President Macrons regime, which is escalating NATOs war against Russia. Workers can expect nothing from new discussions between Borne and the French trade union bureaucracies, which have already negotiated the current cuts with the employers and with Macron themselves. Instead, the working class must rebel against the bureaucracies, which serve to channel and demobilise their struggles, and instead, build an independent global movement against austerity and war. In the interview, Borne declared: It is essential to carry out a reform to preserve our pension system by redistribution, even if asking the French to work progressively longer is not easy. Asked whether she would describe her reform as fair, she did not dare use the word, instead preferring to say: We need justice in the way we distribute the effort among the French. These are all political lies. In the interview, Caroline Roux, the journalist from state-run France2 television, carefully avoided asking the essential questions raised by the pension cut. It would cut tens of billions of euros per year in social spending, while allowing the government to raise military spending by tens of billions of euros per year. According to Macron, this will let France participate in high-intensity wars in the context of the escalating conflict between NATO and Russia in Ukraine. Garcia also failed to raise the recent Oxfam wealth report, which highlighted the glaring social inequality in the world and in France. This report demonstrated that taxing only 2 percent of the wealth of the richest section of French society could sustain the current pension system. In the France2 interview, however, the issue of taxing the wealthy was completely ignored. Nevertheless, France2s video portraits of several French workers, broadcast in the same programme, refuted Bornes arguments and revealed her contempt for the working class. As she presented a graph showing that men would end up retiring later than women, Borne said: I can assure you that this reform protects women who started working early, women who are in difficult jobs, women who had to interrupt their careers. This was contradicted by the portrait of a driving instructor who said she was disgusted that the reform would force her to retire later than expected, because of breaks in her career for maternal leave. The interview also touched on the issue of long careers and arduous work. In another portrait, Thierry, a worker in a machining factory since he was 17, asked Borne: I hope they will think about those who work hard like us. Do you think about that? Borne replied, Of course we think about it. And first of all, I would like to reassure Thierry, who started working at 17. Obviously, he wont have to work until hes 64. I think he will leave at 60. In fact, Borne was wrong, and the governments own diagramwhich was projected on the screen behind Borne as she spokeindicates that Thierry would retire at 61. Indeed, under the new reform, long career workers like Thierry will have to contribute to their pension for 44 years, not 43 years like workers who start their careers at or after age 21. The whole interview reeked of bankers and top state officials contempt for the world of work. Asked about the hardship of workers who carry heavy loads, Elisabeth Borne said, we will cover other causes of hardship than those [currently] considered ... We are creating a new system in which we will identify the jobs that generate professional wear and tear. According to Borne, workers in one of these identified sectors will undergo a medical check-up that could eventually allow them to retire at 62. This sleight of hand does not commit the government to anything. Which jobs will be included in this new scheme remains to be defined. Moreover, it is the French occupational health service, known for its arbitrariness and its bias in favor of employers, which will determine on a case-by-case basis whether a worker can leave earlier than the planned date. Remarkably, as Roux pointed out, the job of a mover is no longer among the jobs considered hard since Macrons arrival at the Elysee presidential palace. Macrons pension reform manifestly aims to free up tens of billions for shareholders and for war, at the cost of breaking the bodies of workers who are nearing retirement. This interview confirms that there is nothing to negotiate with Macron, and that it is necessary to build an international socialist movement, independent of the union bureaucracies, to allow the workers to bring down his government and take power. Teachers Jack and Sylvan spoke to the WSWS during the Protect the Right to Strike rally in London on February 1, 2023. The rallies in London and other cities were held alongside national strikes by 500,000 workers in Britain, including 300,000 teachers. The teachers spoke about the issues involved in their strike; the necessity of education workers being united alongside other workers in struggle; the opposition of Labour Party leader Sir Keir Starmer to industrial action; and the massive funding for the war in Ukraine against Russia. The following letter was sent by a representative of the Young Guard of Bolshevik Leninists (YGBL) in Russia to the International Committee of the Fourth International (ICFI). The YGBL has declared its political support for the ICFI. Dear Comrades, In the last week, a very important development occurred that will affect the current status of the war between NATO-backed Ukraine and Russia. The situation is such that the supply of tanks by NATO countries may change the course of the war: from an indirect or proxy war to a direct conflict between the NATO countries and Russia. This development does not exclude the use of nuclear weapons. Throughout the war, NATO countries have continually expanded aid to Ukraine. If current aid includes tanks, then what might future aid include? How long until NATO countries decide to close the skies over Ukraine with their fighter jets? To directly support the seizure of Crimea and even a nuclear strike? Although the Western media periodically tries to convince readers that NATO will not use nuclear weapons first, this does not in any way negate the responsibility that NATOs policy could lead to the use of nuclear weapons by Putins regime, which is in danger of being overthrown. The Western media are trying to present Russian society as a country of monsters united by an intoxicated thirst to take over Ukraine. I am obliged to refute this slander. Russian society, just like the society of the NATO countries, is composed of two main warring classes: workers and capitalists. It is far from being as monolithic as the media tries to make it out to be. What is interesting, the pro-Russian media comes to the same conclusions as the Western media, only for them all of Russia is united in its national struggle against globalism and liberalism. In this way, they try to consolidate Russian society, which is not consolidated. I want to make it clear that Russian society is divided over the war. There are at least as many people who want the hostilities to stop as there are people who support the hostilities in Ukraine. And these are based on the governments own figures. The real numbers will show even more opposition to Putins regime and this war. However, even those who back the military action are far from united in their support for Putins regime. Many of those who support it do so on the basis of illusions that the current war is, in their view, a war against imperialism and a unipolar world. So, being aware to some extent of the reactionary nature of Putins regime, they still support the war, because they think that this is the only way to resist NATO imperialism. Undoubtedly, support for Putins regime is fueled by the real threat from NATO, which is felt by large segments of the population. All of Putins propaganda is built on mixing truth with outright lies. It aims to make workers, who are aware of the danger of Western imperialism, entrust the fight against it to Putin, as if he were the protector of their interests. And when workers see the militarization of the NATO powers abroad, especially Germany with its dispatch of Leopard tanks to Ukraine, they become increasingly aware of the real threat of a full-scale war with NATO up to and including the use of nuclear weapons. And since workers have an underdeveloped socialist consciousness, they see no alternatives other than Putins regime. The Putin regime is trying to bolster this patriotism, to which there is supposedly no alternative, by using the experience of the Great Patriotic War between the USSR and Germany. But as part of this, there is real anti-communist propaganda. Putin is trying to put an equal sign between the current regime of capitalist restoration and the Soviet Union during World War II, which was still a workers state, though a degenerated one. And this despite his open hatred of the October Revolution and the Bolsheviks. For him, the main point is to educate the masses in the spirit of Great Russian chauvinism. It is very remarkable how Russian propaganda works against Ukraine. Putins entire special operation was based on two principles: demilitarization and denazification. The second principle serves to cover up the first, based on making a deal with imperialism. Moreover, both principles only ended up turning into their own opposite: the militarization of Ukraine intensified, and the neo-Nazis only strengthened their places in the apparatus against the backdrop of war, eliminating opposition forces. If Putin cares about the neo-Nazis, who have serious influence in the Ukrainian state apparatus, it is only in the sense that they serve NATO interests and support the anti-Russian campaign, both on the ideological and military fronts. If the neo-Nazis held at least neutrality, Putin would accept their existence. We must not forget that his idol is the reactionary monarchist philosopher Ivan Ilyin, who supported Hitlers rise to power and his fight against Bolshevism. Ultimately, all of these illusions, fueled by Putins propaganda, will be under constant pressure as the Putin regimes adventure fizzles out and increasingly shows its reactionary nature. Every worker needs to understand that it is impossible to defeat imperialism based on bourgeois nationalism. The bourgeoisie, despite its internal clashes, is nevertheless united on one fundamental question: the suppression of the struggles of the working class. This understanding is sorely lacking right now. Russian society is split. The poor have a more negative attitude toward the war than the well-off. More and more families are being affected by the war. The mobilization that took place in the fall of 2022 strengthened the link between the front and the working class. Even if there is not yet an open aversion to war, as people fear reprisals from Putins regime, discontent is spreading. So many people simply do not understand what will happen next and what to do in such a situation. The bankruptcy of Putins special operation, well demonstrated by the defeats of Russian troops in Kherson and near Kharkov, only fuels these sentiments. Even in official state surveys, many people openly express their anti-war views. The Russian working class has kinship, intellectual and friendly ties with the Ukrainian working class. It is disgusted by this war. The true state of affairs is stronger than any propaganda. The deluded, exploited workers of Russia are slowly, through zigzags, making progress toward an understanding of the current war. Their situation fuels this forward movement. Not knowing what to do, the masses seek a sensible way out of an unreasonable situation. Young people, as always, are the main representative of the anti-war wing in Russian society. But despite a certain progressiveness, the younger generation still has a number of shortcomings. Excessive opposition makes young people a good target for the propaganda of NATO countries. However, even under this pressure from all sides, the shoots of a future mass anti-war movement based on a socialist program emerge from among young people. Putins propaganda is also trying to pressure the younger generation. All the activities of his regime were aimed at fostering a spirit of patriotism in young people. The beginning of the special operation accelerated these processes to an incredible speed. The younger generation knows about World War II, but the regime wants to limit their knowledge to the struggle against fascism and for the Motherland. The older generation has long been simmering in the cauldron of this propaganda, while the younger generation has a certain independence. But Putins propaganda, appealing to the experience of the war between the USSR and Germany, opens a real Pandoras box. Young people are drawn into the history of the 20th century; its most advanced elements do not want to follow the methodology of Russian chauvinism, but to understand events beyond superficial observation. A comparison of historical periods in the development of the country leads to interesting trends. The attitude of the masses at large toward the October Revolution has always been contradictory, but since 1991 there has generally been a positive trend toward support for the revolution. In 2005, the Putin regime even abolished November 7 as a holiday and introduced a new holiday, November 4, Peoples Unity Day. Even so, the trend remained the same. Currently, more people have a positive attitude toward the October Revolution than at any other time in the history of modern Russia. As for the Soviet Union, the older generation has always had a positive attitude toward it. Young people have a more sober attitude toward the USSR, trying to make sense of its history. According to a recent VTsIOM poll in honor of the centenary of the Soviet Union, we can see that almost one in three young people has a positive attitude toward the Soviet Union. And this is after all the piles of piles and lies with which the masses were shrouded in the years following the restoration of capitalism. The restoration of capitalism itself is associated mainly with negative consequences, with disasters for the general population. Only the affluent segments of the population have the most positive attitude toward it, justifying the transition to capitalism with the desire for economic freedom. In general, we can note traces of class sentiments in one opinion or another: workers have the best attitude to both the revolution and the USSR, while the layers of the bourgeois have a negative attitude to everything except the restoration of capitalism, which gave them the right to property. Despite all the positive trends I have pointed out, Russian society still suffers from ignorance and misunderstanding of its own countrys history. If the feelings of workers and young people have certain positive trends, their minds are still poisoned by many of the cliches of the Stalinists, Gorbachevs, Yeltsins, and Putins propaganda. And because of this mess, many are simply confused in their understanding of the October Revolution, the Soviet Union, and the restoration of capitalism. This also contributes to the perception of the current war, splitting the working class. One of the main obstacles to the development of anti-war consciousness among the Russian working class and youth is the absence of a genuine socialist and revolutionary voice. Russian parliamentarism, rotten to the core, in no way represents the interests of the vast majority of the population. All the current parties, from the right to the left, are engaged in a warmongering policy, echoing their Western counterparts. They are trying in every way to ensure the stability of Putins regime in a very unstable environment. Of the illegal opposition, none of the parties or organizations can give a clear revolutionary program for the working class. Rather, each of them confuses the understanding of the current situation and splits the working class, weakening it. Of the socialist and communist groups and organizations opposed to Putins regime, none can give a clear program for the working class. The Stalinists, the Maoists, the Pabloites and others, all these political forces do not represent a historically progressive movement against capitalism and war. Each and every one of these forces has already demonstrated its betrayal of the working class. The Stalinists are the main culprits of the current situation, since the war is one of the long-term consequences of the restoration of capitalism in the USSR, carried out at the initiative of the Stalinist bureaucracy. The CPSUs main heir, the CPRF, supports Putins military action in Ukraine. The Maoists try to confuse the working class. For some of them, the class struggle is replaced by identity politics. For others, worship of Mao and his guerrilla warfare is above understanding modern society and the key arena where the struggle between the working class and the bourgeoisie, the cities, takes place. The Pabloites were the left flank of Stalinism, but they are now indirect defenders of American imperialism. Some of them are outspoken defenders of the corrupt bourgeois Zelensky government. Others bring confusion to the understanding of the war, downplay its risks and consequences in every possible way, thus feeding the ground for passive observation rather than intervention on the basis of a revolutionary program. Their practice is based on the subordination of the working class to legal parliamentary parties, primarily the Communist Party (KPRF). The Russian working class supports the anti-war struggle in NATO countries in every possible way. This support can become a bridge to strengthen the international unity of the working class in Russia, Ukraine, Europe, America, Asia and Australia. In Russia, as in every capitalist country, opposition to war exists and will expand, but this opposition can only gain real strength on the basis of a scientific program of socialist internationalism. We see that a genuine struggle to build and expand the International Committee of the Fourth International as the World Party of the Socialist Revolution is only possible through educating the working class of each country on the basis of bringing clarity to the history of the October Revolution, the Soviet Union and the restoration of capitalism, which is impossible without studying the history of the struggle of Trotskyism against Stalinism and Pabloism. This means that our activities, which are directed toward building a section in Russia and throughout the former Soviet Union, are confronted with a very important question: the elimination of all Stalinist and Putinist filth from the consciousness of the working class and the introduction of revolutionary clarity into it. With revolutionary greetings, Andrei Ritsky On behalf of the YGBL Last week, in the final stages of the multiyear federal investigation nicknamed Operation Nightingale, 25 people were arrested and charged in connection with the sale of 7,600 fraudulent nursing degrees. A nurse administers a COVID-19 test outside the Salt Lake County Health Department, Tuesday, December 20, 2022, in Salt Lake City, Utah. [AP Photo/Rick Bowmer] The scheme involved the selling of fake nursing diplomas and transcripts obtained from three accredited Florida-based nursing schoolsSiena College, Palm Beach School of Nursing and Sacred Heart International Institutewhich allowed aspiring Registered Nurses or Licensed Practical Nurses to sit for the board exams and obtain licensure. At this time, it is unclear if there are more people involved in this scandal or if other such fraudulent diploma rings remain to be discovered. Those charged include administrators of the involved nursing schools and administrators of several test preparation academies across the country that recruited interested parties to purchase the fake diplomas. Charges include wire fraud and conspiracy to commit wire fraud and the defendants face up to 20 years in prison. The allegations reflect a deepening crisis in the health care and education systems that the defendants sought to exploit. The health care system in the US is crumbling amidst continued surges of COVID-19 and the mass exodus of nurses and other health care workers who face unsafe and exhausting working conditions. At the same time, the increasing expense of higher education tempted workers who wanted to better themselves and their career prospects to engage in illegal activities rather than face a mountain of student debt in becoming a nurse. While the names of those who purchased the fake diplomas have not been released, it has been reported that many were Haitian immigrants living in South Florida. Those who purchased the fake diplomas are not currently being charged and individual state nursing boards have been tasked with finding and annulling the licenses in question. A few states have already annulled fraudulent licenses, including 26 licenses in Delaware and 22 in Georgia. Seventy-seven licenses are under review in Washington state. It has been left to the discretion of the nursing regulatory bodies in affected states to investigate individual cases and take appropriate action in accordance with their state laws and due process. The scandal also calls into question the practices of state nursing boards, which were unable to detect the fraudulent documents for multiple years. Between 2016 and 2021, a total of $114 million changed hands in exchange for the fake degrees with students paying between $10,000 and $17,000 for the service and never stepping foot in a classroom or clinical setting. Out of the 7,600 degrees sold, only about 2,400 people eventually passed the licensing exam and were eligible for employment in health care facilities. It has been reported that the nurses with the fake degrees found employment in various settings, including pediatric home care, assisted living facilities and veterans hospitals in several states, including Ohio, New York, New Jersey, Massachusetts, Georgia, Maryland and Texas. Investigators with the US Department of Health and Human ServicesOffice of Inspector General (HHS-OIG) were first tipped off to the fraud in 2019 when the state of Maryland reported two Florida business people, Geralda Adrien and Woosvelt Predestin, and their company PowerfulU Health Care Services LLC, which processed applications for buyers through the aforementioned Florida nursing schools and helped buyers coordinate testing preparation and any other requirements needed to sit for the licensing exam. Adrien and Woosvelt pleaded guilty and were sentenced to 27 months in prison after cooperating with the HHS-OIG investigators to identify other defendants. There are no court dates set for the 25 defendants currently being charged. State nursing boards and hospital systems have been slow to respond, leaving upwards of several hundred or more licensed nurses in health care who are working illegally with no formal training. There is also no way at present to trace or understand the damage that has already been done by the rogue health care workers. Currently, none of the workers who purchased the fraudulent materials are being criminally charged. Many nurses across social media have taken issue with this, concerned that it is a product of hospitals and nursing regulatory boards seeking to avoid liability. A hospital that investigates and admits to employing fake health care workers would likely face costly lawsuits. One nurse spoke to a WSWS reporter on Reddit, stating, We all know why they arent going after them. Once they start pulling on threads it will uncover patient harm and (more importantly to them) liability to their precious hospital systems/top donors. A similar sentiment was echoed by others on a thread related to the diploma scandal. This, of course, contrasts with the criminal prosecution by Vanderbilt University Medical Center (VUMC) of RaDonda Vaught in May of last year. Vaught made a medication error that led to the tragic death of one of her patients, Charlene Murphey, in 2017. After first attempting to cover up the incident, VUMC later fired Vaught and took her to court rather than examining the conditions of chronic understaffing and system failures that no doubt led to the incident. The case demonstrated the attitude of the health care corporations and the entire capitalist state to health care workers. Charges were brought against Vaught not out of genuine concern for patient safety but rather to protect the reputation and profit interests of the university and medical center. In the context of the current diploma scandal, hospital systems do not appear to be engaging in a serious investigation or publicly acknowledging the employment of fraudulently licensed nurses. This exposes, yet again, the profit-driven character of the health care system itself, where reputation and finances take top priority over the safety and needs of patients and staff. The entire European Union (EU) leadership traveled Thursday to Kiev, where it met with the Ukrainian government for two days. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, who was visiting the country for the fourth time, was accompanied by Council President Charles Michel, High Representative for Foreign Affairs Josep Borrell and 15 commissioners, whose function is comparable to that of ministers. The journey of such a high-ranking delegation to a war zone is very unusual and raises serious security questions. The fact that it nevertheless took place shows the determination with which the EU is pursuing the continuation of the war in Ukraine. Almost a year after the war began, the EU has tied its prestige to the military defeat of Russia, even if it costs the lives of hundreds of thousands of Ukrainian and Russian soldiers and threatens to lead to nuclear war. The main purpose of the trip was to shore up the Zelensky regime, which is under massive military and domestic pressure. We are here together to show that the EU stands as firmly as ever with Ukraine, von der Leyen wrote on Twitter. The number of Ukrainian soldiers killed at the front now amounts to between 100,000 and 160,000, depending on the source, and will continue to rise in view of the imminent Russian offensive. The willingness to die in a war that primarily serves the interests of NATO is apparently declining. This is shown by a law signed by Zelensky against considerable public resistance punishing desertion and criticism of superiors with long prison sentences. The unexplained death of Interior Minister Denys Monastyrsky on January 18 and the dismissal of several high-ranking government members for corruption indicate that fierce power struggles are raging within the regime. Meanwhile, authorities have searched the home of Monastyrsky's predecessor Arsen Avakov. He is accused of corruption in the purchase of the helicopter type involved in the crash that killed Monastyrsky, which is considered unsafe. Since the Ukrainian press is subject to strict censorship and opposition media and parties are banned, it is difficult to obtain more precise information. Zelenskys government has long depended on the EU. This year alone, 18 billion of direct aid will be provided to keep the state institutions going. This corresponds to about one-tenth of the total EU budget. Military support, which is mainly provided by the individual member states and the US, is not included in this sum. The visit of the entire EU Commission is aimed at strengthening fighting morale. As the country sinks into ruin and poverty, the assembled commissioners gush over the utopia of a thriving Ukraine within the European Union. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, left, and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen address a media conference after the EU-Ukraine summit in Kyiv, Ukraine, Friday, February 3, 2023. [AP Photo/Efrem Lukatsky] We are now preparing the future of Ukraine, said von der Leyen. Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Schmyhal said Ukraine would meet the EU's accession conditions in two years. The ministers of the Ukrainian government heard about the benefits of good macroeconomic planning, the opportunities of the switch to renewable energies, and focusing on hydrogen, Germanys flagship television news show Tagesschau said, reporting on the meeting of the Ukrainian government and the Commission. The delivery of 35 million LED lights to facilitate everyday life under wartime conditions was also promised. We reaffirm that the future of Ukraine and its citizens lies in the European Union, the summit said in a joint statement. The EU will support Ukraine as long as is necessary. Everyone involved knows that these are pipedreams. The admission process to the EU, which requires all 27 member states to agree, takes years, if not decades. Candidates must commit to strict budgetary discipline and cut social spending accordingly. And even if they meet the admission requirements, this does not mean an improvement for the broad mass of the population. Even after 15 years of EU membership, workers in Romania and Bulgaria earn only a fraction of what their Western European colleagues receive. Many work under slave-like conditions in European slaughterhouses as truck drivers and in similar professions. The EU has no interest in a prosperous Ukraine. Nor is it interested in fighting corruption or securing democracy. It wants access to the cheap labour, fertile soil and raw materials of the country, which, in addition to coal and gas, include such critical items as lithium, cobalt, titanium, beryllium and rare earth elements, with an estimated value of 6.7 trillion. Above all, Ukraine serves as a battering ram against Russia, with its vast land mass and raw material reserves. In order to militarily defeat and divide Russia and install a puppet government, the EU has rejected any negotiated solution to the war, even if it means turning Ukraine into a wasteland. This is also Zelenskys view. Now it is obvious that the dream of a peaceful Europe can only be realized together with Ukraine and only by defeating Russia, he said during a joint press conference with von der Leyen. While the EU is boosting the Zelensky regime morally and keeping it alive with billions of dollars, NATO, which includes most EU members, is escalating the war with ever-increasing arms deliveries, effectively making itself a party to the conflict. Since Germany and the US gave the green light for the delivery of state-of-the-art battle tanks, the pledges are increasing. More and more countries are declaring their willingness to give up battle tanks, so that in the end several hundred are likely to be delivered. The German government has also approved the export of 29 older Leopard I models. At the same time, preparations are underway for the delivery of F-16 fighter jets that can penetrate deep into Russian territory and carry nuclear bombs. While US President Joe Biden still officially rejects this move, Ukrainian pilots are already being trained on these fighter jets. EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said the F-16s would be delivered soon. The supply of tanks was initially also highly controversial, he said before the summit in Kiev. But they agreed to cross that red line. There have been warnings of escalation risks with each round of arms deliveries so far, he noted. In Kiev, Borrell promised to increase the number of Ukrainian soldiers trained by the European Training Mission (EUMAM) from 15,000 to 30,000. The EU mission will also provide training for the crews of Leopard 2 tanks deployed by Germany, Poland and other countries. Commission President von der Leyen, who was formerly Germanys defence minister, promised that the EU would complete a tenth sanctions package against Russia by 24 February, the anniversary of the Russian invasion. The sanctions imposed so far have already caused considerable damage to the Russian economy. On Sunday, a price cap for Russian petroleum products will come into effect. Von der Leyen announced three months ago that she wanted to confiscate frozen Russian assets and make them available to Ukraine, a plan supported by several EU representatives. In the EU alone, around 300 billion of the Russian Central Banks foreign exchange reserves have been frozen. However, the operation is encountering difficulties under international law. If the principle of state immunity is violated and property protection is called into question, according to international law expert Marc Bungenberg, the US could also be prosecuted for the Iraq war. Then other countries might be encouraged to seize the assets of Western companiesand, if available, central banks as well, he said. The Russian regime of Vladimir Putin has done nothing to oppose the offensive of NATO and the EU except escalating its military intervention and promoting Great Russian chauvinism. The representatives of the Russian oligarchs, who plundered the social property of the Soviet Union, are organically incapable of appealing to the opposition to war in the international working class. But this is the only way to stop the war and the threat of a nuclear inferno. The Socialist Equality Party (SGP) and its sister parties in the International Committee of the Fourth International are building an international movement against war based on the growing opposition of the working class to exploitation and capitalism, and fighting for a socialist transformation of society. This goal is the focus of the antiwar rally being held by the SGP today at 11:00 a.m. at Potsdamer Platz, as part of its Berlin election campaign. Take up the fight for rank-and-file control! Join the Railroad Workers Rank-and-File Committee by sending an email to railwrfc@gmail.com, texting (314) 529-1064 or filling out the form at the bottom of this page. A BNSF rail terminal worker monitors the departure of a freight train, on June 15, 2021, in Galesburg, Ill. [AP Photo/Shafkat Anowar] Brothers and Sisters, Last year, we passed through a major strategic experience for ourselves and the whole working class. We fought a battle against the carriers, the Biden administration and Congress, and the corrupt union bureaucracy. The battle may be over, but the war continues. The intervention by Congress to impose the contract resolves nothing, as far as we are concerned. The carriers are now openly flaunting even this miserable sellout deal whenever it is convenient. Three of the Class Is have announced pilot programs for one-man crews, and BNSF has announced plans to contract out locomotive maintenance outside of the bargaining units. That would be a flagrant violation of any contract, and even by the standards of the RLA, clearly qualifies as a major issue worthy of strike action. As far as management is concerned, the contract is only binding on us workers. They feel emboldened because they know they have not only Congress on their side, but the union apparatus. Last year, SMART-TD hailed the PEB recommendations on the grounds that it supposedly put an end to one-man crews. Now, it turns out they had been secretly negotiating these pilot programs for months. As for the IBEW, it has called a strike vote over the locomotives which it will simply ignore like the unions did last year. IAM District 19 President Kyle Loos has even proposed mandatory overtime as a supposed solution. Now is no time for passivity. As we said in our statement last December, the action by Congress was completely illegitimate and an attack on not only our democratic rights, but those of workers everywhere. Therefore, we concluded, railroad workers reserve the right to organize and prepare collective action in response. We, the rank-and-file railroad workers, must organize to prepare action which we deem appropriate in defense of our rights and our livelihoods. To prepare ourselves for the fight which is already beginning, we must learn the lessons of the experience through which we have just passed. This is critical not only for ourselves but the whole working class. As we speak, in response to a series of national strikes by British railroaders, Parliament is threatening to impose US-style anti-strike laws. Here in the US, more than 1.5 million other workers have contracts which expire this year, including UPS workers, autoworkers and other major industries. They must learn from our example and prepare themselves accordingly. What was revealed last year? There were four main lessons: First, workers are fighting against a conspiracy involving management, the government and the union bureaucracy. Throughout, the union officials worked hand-in-glove with Biden, provided political cover for the PEB, bought Congress time through endless delays and sought to enforce contracts through dubious votes marred by fraud. They lied to us, told us repeatedly that we did not have the right to strike and that nothing could be done if Congress intervened. In the end, SMART-TD President Jeremy Ferguson even claimed that Bidens intervention against us was for the good of the country! In reality, it was for the good of the profit interests of American businesses. This is not just a case of a few bad apples at the top. This is a system of labor control which they have worked out over decades. It is institutionalized partly through the RLA and similar laws but extends even beyond that. In the union bureaucracy, corporate America and Washington see a means of enforcing de-facto bans on strikes. Biden is attempting to build on this in other critical industries, including on the docks where workers have been without a contract for more than 6 months. Second, both political parties are parties of the rich. The internal civil war raging on Capitol Hill suddenly evaporated just long enough for these supposedly mortal enemies to come together against us. A key role was placed by the so-called lefts in the Democratic Party, including Bernie Sanders and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. These so-called anti-capitalists either voted for the anti-strike law or worked to ensure its swift passage. President Joe Biden shares a laugh with SMART Transportation Division President Jeremy Ferguson in Washington, D.C. on September 15, 2022. Former BLET President Dennis Pierce is behind Biden. [AP Photo/Andrew Harnik] The political system in the United States is not a democracy. It is a system of class domination in which the interests of only a tiny, wealthy minority are the ones which are allowed to be expressed. Third, the struggle showed the immense power of the working class. The carriers started out by claiming that we do not contribute to profits. But they were quickly forced to contradict themselves when the whole of corporate America became seized with holy terror at the prospect of a rail strike as not thinkable. In its own way, the intervention by Congress is an admission that it is us, the working class, not Wall Street hedge fund managers like Warren Buffett, etc, which not only produce all profits but make society run. The claim by the railroads that labor does not contribute to profits, which has sparked outrage among railroad workers, stamped onto the back of a Norfolk Southern safety vest [Photo: Railroad worker via Reddit] Fourth, workers can fight back against this conspiracy, to the extent that they organize themselves independently. The well-laid plans to ram through the contract were threatened and disrupted solely to the extent that rank-and-file workers organized actions themselves. The Railroad Workers Rank-and-File Committee organized informational pickets, online meetings with hundreds of people and wrote and distributed statements which were widely read by railroad workers. Railroaders as a whole took to social media as forums relatively uncontrolled by bureaucratic censorship. In the end, this made the ruling class victory extremely costly. Attempts to screen their enforcement of the deal through sham votes organized by the bureaucracy utterly failed, and Washington was forced to intervene openly and directly, exposing forever all pretensions about being pro-labor. This has only underscored to workers the fact that our fight is a rebellion against the entire existing set-up. The organizer of this rebellion is the Railroad Workers Rank-and-File Committee, which continues to fight. This is an entirely new type of organization, based on the principle that the will of the rank-and-file takes absolute priority, and controlled entirely by workers themselves, not by career bureaucrats. The fight is not over. It is only just beginning. Therefore, we urge you to join the RWRFC. Help us build the new structures of workers power, to ensure that this will be the last time that a contract will be ever be imposed on us against our will! After a three-year absence because of the COVID-19 pandemic, Chinese tech companies were celebrating the chance to return to Integrated Systems Europe (ISE), the world's leading audiovisual (AV) systems integration show held here between Jan. 31 and Feb. 3. The event attracted over 1,000 exhibitors and an estimated 52,000 visitors from around the world, 10,000 more than last year. The exhibitors showcased the latest technological innovations in the AV sector, such as 8K LED screens, virtual reality, digital immersion and 3D video projections. "I didn't imagine that so many people would come here," Lesley Dong, marketing manager for Ledman, a leading LED display manufacturer based in south China's Guangdong province, told Xinhua, adding "we have lots of customers and we just can't wait to present our products." Lesley said that her company attended the fair because "we think that an exhibition like this is the best way to make contacts and talk face-to-face with our customers," while saving "time and energy" spent on emails and phone calls. Felix Wang, manager at touch screen technology company Micron based in Shenzhen of Guangdong province, agreed, saying "we like to go abroad to major events to show off our products and to introduce ourselves to foreign customers." Over a hundred Chinese companies took part in the trade fair this year and more than 30 Chinese firms had exhibitor's booths, according to the ISE. "We concentrate on exports. This is why we have to come to overseas exhibitions," Sawyer Xu, general manager at the Shenzhen Besdled company, which produces high-end LED screens, told Xinhua. "I believe that next year more and more Chinese manufacturers will travel to do business all over the world," he said. According to the ISE, Chinese firms usually make up 15 percent of all LED screen exhibitors, half of this number attended this year's fair. Many Chinese companies had already confirmed their attendance at the show's next edition. "We see so much innovation in our industry coming from China -- microLED, transparent LED. Usually, this hall is full of Chinese companies showing different LED solutions for digital signage, digital out-of-home advertising," Mike Blackman, managing director of the ISE, told Xinhua, adding "we know they're coming back next year, and they've already been in touch." Chinese tech companies are "very important" in the Asian audiovisual market, Blackman said. His organization estimates that the growing global AV market is already worth 260 billion euros (283 billion U.S. dollars) a year. (1 euro = 1.09 U.S. dollar) Produced by Xinhua Global Service On Thursday, House Republicans voted to remove Representative Ilhan Omar, Democrat from Minnesota, from the Foreign Affairs Committee, where she has served since taking office in 2019. The resolution passed on a party-line vote of 218-211, with all Republicans save one, who voted present, voting to remove Omar and all voting Democrats opposing the move. Republican Speaker Kevin McCarthy, who heads up a narrow Republican majority in the House, had vowed two years ago that he would remove Omar from the Foreign Affairs Committee if the GOP retook control of the House in the 2022 midterm elections. Omar, one of two female Muslims elected to the House in 2018, is a naturalized US citizen who came to the country as a twelve-year-old refugee from civil war-torn Somalia. After taking office, she was quickly targeted by Republicans and Zionist organizations for making mild criticisms of Israeli repression of Palestinians and the de facto green light given by the US political establishment to the Israeli government. She was witch-hunted for supposed anti-Semitism, in line with the international attack on left-wing anti-Semitism directed against critics of the illegal Israeli occupation of the West Bank and Tel Avivs violent oppression of the Palestinian population. Then-House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and the Democratic leadership of the House joined in the attack on Omar after she criticized the influence of the American Israel Political Affairs Committee (AIPAC) on US policy and policy-makers in 2019, orchestrating a bipartisan vote by the entire House to demand that she apologize. Omar quickly and obsequiously obliged, voting for a resolution essentially equating criticism of Israel with anti-Semitism and publicly retracting her earlier remark. Minnesota Representative Ilhan Omar. (Democratic) [AP Photo/Morry Gash, File] Omar is the third Democrat to be removed from a committee post by the new Republican majority in the House and its Speaker, McCarthy. Last month, McCarthy removed California Democrats Adam Schiff and Eric Swalwell from the House Intelligence Committee, fulfilling another pledge he made prior to the 2022 elections. In this case, a vote by the entire House was not required, since the Intelligence Committee is a select committee, whose members are appoiunted by the House Speaker, traditionally in consultation with the leader of the minority party. Meanwhile, McCarthy has allotted an outsized number of slots on key committees to members of the fascistic House Freedom Caucus who held up his election for Speaker for 15 ballots and a full week when the new Congress assembled in January, as well as other far-right lawmakers who supported his bid for the speakership. These include two fascist RepublicansPaul Gosar of Arizona and Marjorie Taylor Greene of Georgiawho were removed from their committee posts in 2021 by the Democratic House leadership at the time after they posted violent threats on social media against Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Nancy Pelosi, President Joe Biden and other Democrats. McCarthy has awarded Greene two positions on top committees, Homeland Security and Oversight. Gosar is also expected to be given a spot on the House Oversight Committee. Gosar and Greene highlight the glaring hypocrisy of the Republicans attacks on Omar and their pretenses of opposing anti-Semitism. One year ago, both attended the America First Political Action Conference in Florida headed up by Nick Fuentes, an open white supremacist, anti-Semite and Hitler admirer. Fuentes first gained prominence for participating in the 2017 neo-Nazi Unite the Right march in Charlottesville, Virginia, which included a torchlight parade and chants of Jews Will Not Replace Us! That slogan embodies the Great Replacement Theory of the fascist right, which holds that international Jewry is working to dilute and replace white European stock by infiltrating Muslims and others. Then-President Donald Trump infamously praised the good people at the Charlottesville march. More recently, this past December, he had dinner at his Florida estate with Fuentes and another anti-Semite, the rapper Ye. Greene has repeatedly tweeted anti-Semitic tropes in line with the fascist QAnon conspiracy. One speculated that a wave of wildfires in California were caused by a beam from space solar generators linked to Rothschild, Inc. Trump has directly attacked Omar at rallies, saying she hates America and should go back to Somalia, prompting his audience to chant Send her back! She and other targets of Republican fascist agitation such as Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez have received multiple death threats. Nor has McCarthy abstained from anti-Semitic agitation himself. In 2018, just days before the attack on the Tree of Life synagogue in Pittsburgh, the deadliest attack on Jewish people in US history, he tweeted: We cannot allow Soros, Steyer and Bloomberg to BUY this election! All three are wealthy Jewish supporters of the Democratic Party. None of this has prevented the Democrats, including Omar, from groveling before the fascist right. For the Democratic Party, no less than the Republicans, the Israeli regime is a critical ally in the drive by US imperialism to establish global supremacy, focused presently on the escalating war against Russia in Ukraine and preparations for war against China. In particular, it stands in the forefront of US imperialist provocations against Iran, which are being intensified under conditions where Iran is supplying drones and other weapons to the Putin regime. On January 26, one week before the scheduled vote on her removal from the Foreign Affairs Committee, Omar placed a post on her official Twitter account lauding her meeting with the commander of the US Africa Command. So as to leave no doubt as to her pro-imperialist loyalties, the tweet stated: It was a pleasure to talk with General Michael E. Langley, the sixth commander of US Africa Command about counterterrorism and diplomacy. Rep. Omar discussed the US militarys role in Somalia; the need to prioritize development and diplomacy in Africa; counterterrorism policy on the continent; and Global Fragility Act implementation. She also congratulated General Langley on becoming the first Black four star general in the history of the United States Marine Corps, and looks forward to continuing their productive conversation. Minnesota Representative Ilhan Omar (Democratic) posing for a photograph with General Michael Langley of US Africa Command in her office on January 26, 2023. [Photo: Rep. Ilhan Omar/@Ilhan] On the day of the vote, in a further signal to both the Republican fascist right and the Democratic Party leadership, Omar signed onto a new resolution authored by Democratic Representative Josh Gottheimer of New Jersey and co-sponsored by some 30 Democratic House members recognizing Israel as Americas legitimate and democratic ally and condemning anti-Semitism. Gottheimer issued a statement congratulating Omar on supporting Israel as a Jewish and legitimate democratic state, i.e., one in which Muslims and Palestinians are relegated to an inferior status based on their religion and nationality. Gottheimer went on to say that the resolution acknowledges Israel as a vital ally and condemns the use of antisemitic tropes, including those masquerading as anti-Israel sentiments. Not accidentally, this blank check to the Zionist regime takes place under conditions of extreme political instability in Israel, with hundreds of thousands marching in recent days, both Jews and Palestinians, against the recently installed extreme right coalition government headed by Likud leader Benjamin Netanyahu. The government includes fascistic and racist parties based on Jewish settlers and ultra-Orthodox parties hostile to whatever remains of Israels secular past. Moving toward the permanent annexation of the West Bank and even more pervasive apartheid conditions, Netanyahu has taken a major step toward authoritarian rule by seeking to abolish the post of attorney general and put an end to the independence of the judiciary. This has triggered historic mass demonstrations of not only national and regional, but international significance. Over the past month, no less than three top US security officialsNational Security Adviser Jake Sullivan, CIA Director William Burns and Secretary of State Antony Blinkenhave traveled to Israel to discuss the internal crisis and plans for further aggression against Iran. On January 28, Israeli agents launched drone attacks on Iranian military targets in Isfahan, a center of Iranian air and space operations. Earlier in the month, the US and Israel carried out their largest-ever joint military exercises, involving 7,500 troops and encompassing air, sea and ground forces. US NSC spokesman John Kirby said the exercises were directed against Iran. The internal situation has meanwhile become a social tinderbox. An Israeli military raid in the West Bank city of Jenin on January 26 left 10 Palestinians dead. That touched off a series of attacks by lone Palestinians on Jews in Jerusalem and scores of attacks by settlers on Palestinians across the West Bank. As the WSWS wrote of the first mass protest against the new government, held on January 14: Homemade placards on the protest warned against fascism, a coup detat, a criminal government, and the end of democracy. Jewish people joined Israeli Arabs in carrying Palestinian flags, in defiance of [fascist National Security Minister] Ben-Gvirs call for the police to crack down. These protests have given the lie to the global witch-hunting of opponents of Israeli oppression of the Palestinians as anti-Semites. If they are anti-Semites, then so too are hundreds of thousands of Israeli citizens. Ankara has suspended NATO membership talks with Sweden and Finland after a far-right politician publicly burned copies of the Quran, a holy book for Islam, in Sweden and Denmark in late January. As NATO escalates the war against Russia in Ukraine with the delivery of battle tanks to Ukraine, the United States, Germany, France, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom and Canada have issued successive statements warning their citizens of the possibility of a terrorist attack in Turkey due to the Quran burning provocation. As long as it [Sweden] allows the burning of the Quran, we will not say yes to your entry into NATO, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said on Wednesday. Our view on Finland is positive, but not on Sweden, he added. Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in Sarajevo, Bosnia, on September. 6, 2022. [AP Photo/Armin Durgut] It is not possible for us to say yes to Swedens NATO membership right now, Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said on Tuesday. At a joint press conference with his Estonian counterpart on Wednesday, Cavusoglu said that his government considers there are two threats to NATO in the form of Russia and terrorism, Turkish state-owned Anadolu Agency reported. He added, We, of course, understand the legitimate concerns of Estonia and the other two candidate countries [Finland and Sweden], but on the other hand, it is equally legitimate to expect our allies to understand the security concerns of Turkey and other countries. Reiterating his governments support for NATOs open door policy, Cavusoglu said, Of course we oppose the war [in Ukraine]. We continue to support Ukraine. Turkey is also making very important efforts to end this war. He added that Ankaras stance was to ensure Ukraine's territorial integrity at the negotiating table. In an interview with Radio Sputnik, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said on Wednesday that the tensions with Turkey over Sweden and Finland's membership in NATO show the degree of mistrust within the alliance and among Western states in general. Finland and Sweden decided to join NATO last May, in the midst of the US-led war against Russia in Ukraine. The Erdogan government, however, has declared its opposition to their accession, threatening a veto. A unanimous vote of all 30 member states is required for a country to join NATO. Amid Washingtons escalation of the war against Russia, significant factions of the US political establishment are advocating responding to Turkeys threat to veto Sweden and Finlands NATO membership by not supplying the Turkish military with F-16s. At the end of June, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg, Finnish President Sauli Niinisto, Swedish Prime Minister Magdalena Andersson and Erdogan met, followed by the signing of a memorandum by their foreign ministers. In exchange for Sweden and Finlands commitment to fulfill Ankaras demands, it withdrew its veto on their NATO membership. Ankara demands that Sweden and Finland stop supporting the Kurdish nationalist Peoples Protection Units (YPG) in Syria and the Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK), both considered terrorist groups by Turkey. Sweden and Finland pledged to lift the arms embargo on Turkey imposed after its military operation against the YPG in Syria in 2019. They also pledged to process Turkey's expulsion or extradition requests for terror suspects immediately and in all their dimensions. Those allegedly include supporters of Islamic preacher Fethullah Gulen, claimed by Ankara to have led the putschist officers in the failed 2016 coup against the Erdogan government. However, recent developments led to the breakdown of the trilateral talks. On January 11, Kurdish nationalist groups in the Swedish capital, Stockholm, hung an effigy of Erdogan by its feet from a pole in front of the historic city hall. Then on January 21, Islamophobic and anti-immigrant Danish far-right extremist Rasmus Paludan burned a Quran in front of the Turkish embassy in Stockholm. After these provocations, Turkish Defense Minister Hulusi Akar announced the cancellation of Swedish Defense Minister Pal Jonson's visit to Turkey. Ankara then announced that the trilateral talks scheduled to be held in Brussels in February had been suspended indefinitely. In part, Erdogan's government is resorting to populism and nationalism to try to quell social tensions and burnish its support ahead of presidential and parliamentary elections in May. However, the tensions between Ankara and its NATO allies have far deeper roots than the immediate electoral agenda. Although it is part of the NATO alliance, the Turkish bourgeoisie, which has strong economic and military ties with Russia, believes that the US-NATO goals in the war against Russia will also harm its own interests. In addition, the US alliance with Kurdish nationalist forces in Syria is seen as unacceptable by Ankara. As Erdogan has already announced his armys invasion plans into Syria, Turkeys attempt to launch a comprehensive ground military operation to prevent the emergence of a Kurdish enclave led by the YPG on Turkeys southern border carries with it the risk of a confrontation between the two NATO members, the US and Turkey. Moreover, the presence of Russian, Iranian and Syrian forces in the area could turn such a military intervention into a major war. Other critical geopolitical conflicts related to Ankaras ties with Russia, as well as to the YPGs growing power in Syria, erupted in the failed NATO-backed coup attempt against the Erdogan government in 2016. Far from being resolved, these conflicts have only deepened. The US-NATO war against Russia has further escalated historical conflicts between Greece and Turkey in the eastern Mediterranean and the Aegean Sea. NATOs use and consolidation of Greece as a transshipment hub in the war against Russia is seen as a threat by Ankara. Turkeys decision to close the Dardanelles and Istanbul Straits from the Aegean to Black Sea to all warships immediately after the Russian invasion in Ukraine based on the Montreux Convention increased Greeces logistical and regional importance. Ankara could be forced to make a critical decision if NATO powers want to move their warships into the Black Sea to counter Russia. These developments underline the fact that NATOs war against Russia has plunged critical regions such as the Middle East, the Black Sea and the eastern Mediterranean into deepening geopolitical conflict. Only by uniting workers in Turkey, the region and around the world in an international and socialist movement against the war can the catastrophe be stopped. On February 1-2, US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin visited the Philippines where he met with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr and announced that Washington would be expanding its military presence in the country under the terms of the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) and resuming joint military exercises in the disputed waters of the South China Sea. US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin walks past military guards at the Department of National Defense in Camp Aguinaldo military camp in Quezon City, Metro Manila, Philippines on Thursday February 2, 2023. [AP Photo/Rolex Dela Pena/Pool Photo via AP] While Washington is waging a war with Russia in Ukraine, most recently announcing the deployment of M1 Abrams battle tanks, it is at the same time preparing for and provoking war with China. Austins Asian tour of the past week demonstrated how far advanced these preparations have developed. Prior to his arrival in the Philippines, Austin met with South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol who recently publicly spoke of the possible deployment of US nuclear weapons to the Korean peninsula. In Manila, Austin declared that Chinas threat to international order was unprecedented. This claim stands reality on its head. It is Washington, not Beijing, that is rapidly ramping up preparations for war in the Pacific. The Biden administration is deploying more fighter jets and bombers to South Korea, shifting US troop deployments in Japan to a more immediate war footing, and restoring military bases in the Philippines, all the while openly targeting China. In the process the White House is deliberately resurrecting Japanese militarism, pushing Prime Minister Fumio Kishida to scrap the countrys constitutional limits on armed forces and expand its military presence in the Asia-Pacific region. In December 2022, Japan became the third largest military spender in the world. Washingtons preparations for war with China are focused above all on Taiwan. The Philippines, immediately to Taiwans south, is critical to these plans. The United States suffered a serious blow to its military presence in the region in 2016, when then Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte, looking to improve economic ties with China, announced shortly after taking office that he was ending joint military patrols in the disputed South China Sea and putting all implementation of basing arrangements for US forces on hold. Ferdinand Marcos Jr, who took office last year, had campaigned claiming that he would continue Dutertes orientation to China. Within months it was clear that a reorientation back toward Washington was under way. There is profound concern throughout the region that the tensions over Taiwan, stoked by the Biden administration, will erupt into war. The Philippines would inevitably be directly caught up in this conflict. Philippine Ambassador to the US Jose Romualdez expressed Manilas dilemma when he recently told the Associated Press, Were in a Catch-22 situation. If China makes a move on Taiwan militarily, well be affectedand all ASEAN region, but mostly us, Japan and South Korea. As he had in South Korea, Austin declared to the Philippine press that the US had an ironclad commitment to the country. Washingtons expanded military presence, he asserted, makes both of our democracies more secure. Nothing could be further from the truth. Washingtons only ironclad commitment is to protect its own imperialist interests. Its military presence destabilizes the region and undermines democracy. The basing of US troops in the country is a direct violation of the Philippine constitution. The stationing of US forces in the Philippines is already under way. Austin visited Camp Navarro on the southern island of Mindanao, where a US Joint Special Operations Task Force is currently deployed. Austin announced that the Marcos government was adding four new locations for the forward deployment of US troops and military supplies in addition to an existing five. While the precise locations have not yet been specified, then Philippine Military Chief of Staff, Lt. Gen. Bartolome Bacarro, told the press in November 2022 that Washington had requested two locations on the Luzon strait, the portion of the country closest to Taiwan. Austin also stated that the US and Philippine militaries would be resuming the joint military exercises in the disputed South China Sea, which Duterte had ended in 2016. These war games directly target China in waters claimed by Beijing and are very provocative. While Austin presented the war preparations of Washington as serving some commitment to the defense of democracy, he said not a word on human rights or the bloody legacy of the Marcos dictatorship, which is being rehabilitated by Marcos Jr. With the full backing of Washington, Ferdinand Marcos Sr imposed martial law on the country in 1972 and used its draconian powers to oversee the brutal apparatus of military repression. Thousands were killed and tens of thousands tortured by the Marcos dictatorship, while the United States increased its military aid to his regime and declared its support for hisin the words of Vice President George H. W. Bush in 1981adherence to democratic principles. The paramount concern for Washington was the preservation of its vast military complexes at Clark Airbase and Subic Naval Base. Marcos Jr has declared that the martial law rule of his father was a golden age in Philippine history. Under the current presidency, activists and political dissidents are routinely arrested as terrorists. The day before Austins arrival in the country, the governments Anti-Terrorism Council issued a public declaration that a community doctor working with a deeply impoverished indigenous community was a communist and a terrorist, charges which could likely result in her death in a state-backed extrajudicial assassination. Washington had nothing to say about any of this. Prior to his election, Marcos Jr faced subpoena and arrest in the United States for contempt of court in a case involving his familys gross violations of human rights. The Biden White House arranged for Marcos Jrs safe travel to the United States where the US president held a friendly meeting with him in New York. Washington sheds tears for human rights only when it serves its war aims and imperialist ambitions. As under the Marcos dictatorship of the 1970s and 1980s, Washingtons concern in the Philippines is not democracy or human rights but establishing and maintaining a military presence to advance its war plans. The US bases in the country were a flagrant violation of Philippine sovereignty, a military extension of its neo-colonial rule. The US exercised direct rule over these bases and the millions of US troops stationed on or cycled through them were not subject to Philippine jurisdiction. Scores of Filipinos were killed by US serviceman, thousands raised accusations of rape, but not a single American was prosecuted under Philippine law. A vast network of prostitution and vice grew up around the bases, with the direct support of the US military brass. Washington staged the carpet bombing of North Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos from its bases in the Philippines. In 1991, the Philippine Senate voted to end the lease of the US military bases and the future establishment of foreign military bases in the country was barred by the constitution without the approval of a two-thirds majority of the Senate. It is for this reason that the New York Times wrote that Austins announcement would mark the first time in 30 years that the United States will have such a large military presence in the country. For 30 years, the basing of US troops in the country has been banned. The Biden and Marcos Jr administrations are poised to reverse that. The Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA), which Austin and Marcos now invoke, is an executive agreement signed by the defense secretary of the Aquino administration and the ambassador of the Obama administration in 2014. It was an end run around the constitution, presenting the basing of US troops as a rotational presence, which did not require legislative ratification. In early 2016, the pliant Philippine Supreme Court, duly chastened by corruption charges, ruled that EDCA was constitutional. Washington rapidly moved to deploy troops but Duterte was elected four months later and relations soured. After six long years, with the newly elected Marcos, the United States is moving again to establish bases. Austin told the press that the EDCA arrangement is not about permanent basing, but it is a big deal. Its a really big deal. The denial that this is permanent basing is a necessary subterfuge to enable the big deal, through which the United States is re-establishing its military bases, critical to its war aims in the Asia Pacific region, in its former colony, the Philippines. The ten pages of EDCA authorize the deployment of unlimited numbers of US troops and supplies to a set of agreed locations. These locations will be governed by the United States. Filipinos will not be allowed to enter any US-controlled location. Only one Filipino military representative will be allowed access, and only with permission secured in advance from the US commander. US forces are also guaranteed access to all public land and facilities (including roads, ports, and airfields), including those owned or controlled by local government as needed. US troops and civilian contractors are subject to the extraterritorial jurisdiction of the US government. Should they be accused of a crime, the Philippine legal system will have no jurisdiction over them. The US will pay no rent for the use of these facilities and if they choose to vacate a facility, the Philippine government is obligated to reimburse the US military for any improvements. These are military bases. No euphemism about indefinite rotational presence can disguise this reality. The terms of EDCA smack of a restored colonial presence. Washington is reenacting historic crimes and dredging up the reactionary filth of the past in pursuit of its war ambitions against China. Steve Van Zandt, longtime member of Bruce Springsteens E Street Band, took the stage Wednesday night in Tampa for the first concert of Springsteens 2023 tour sporting a Ukrainian flag-painted guitar. On Thursday evening, Van Zandt posted a picture of himself with the guitar on Twitter and tweeted, My tribute and show of solidarity with Ukraine opens the show ... No Retreat! No Surrender! Van Zandts reactionary, bloodthirsty comments would have no significance whatsoeverthey would simply be more prowar propaganda from the wealthy upper middle class in Americawere it not for his celebrity and his musical history. Bruce Springsteen and Steven Van Zandt, 2009 [Photo by Manuel Martinez Perez / CC BY-ND 2.0 He and Springsteen are embarking on an international tour of stadiums and large arenas where the blue and gold guitar will almost certainly continue to be displayed. The concerts will be dutifully uploaded to YouTube by countless fans and viewed thousands and, all told, perhaps millions of times. Such barnstorming on behalf of US imperialism must be answered. The World Socialist Web Site has been clear and consistent in denouncing the February 2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine as a brutal action taken by a Moscow oligarchy desperate to preserve itself. The WSWS has been equally consistent in condemning the US and NATO belligerence that deliberately provoked the invasion and that has used Ukraine and its people in a long premeditated proxy war against Russia. Over the last three decades, the anti-Soviet/anti-Russia NATO military alliance has metastasized steadily eastward, engulfing Poland, Slovakia, Hungary, Romania, Bulgaria and the Baltic states, among other countries, bordering former Soviet states Belarus and Ukraine and essentially encircling Russia to its west. This three-decade expansion of NATO has constituted one long provocation of Moscow and a slow prelude to World War III. Furthermore, in 2014, the US, with the help of Germany, orchestrated the overthrow of a pro-Russian president, Viktor Yanukovych, in the so-called Maidan revolution. This coup was carried out largely by far-right forces aligned with the Right Sector organization and the Svoboda party. These fascistic forces, represented in the war with Russia by the notorious Azov Battalion, revere the memory of Ukrainian nationalist and Nazi collaborator Stepan Bandera. It is this repugnant political and military element that the US and NATO are now arming with the most advanced weaponry the West has to offer in their attempt to destabilize and dissolve Russia as a coherent political and economic entity capable of promoting and defending its own interests. What do the Western imperialist powersled by the US and Germanyhope to gain through such a war? They seek nothing less than control of the tremendous natural resourcesarable land, oil, natural gas and critical minerals such as lithium and cobaltand the geostrategic advantages afforded by the Russian landmass, primarily the opportunity to militarily encircle China. In their desperate pursuit of these maniacal ends, US capitalism and its allies of convenience in NATO have demonstrated in word and deed that they are willing to risk the nuclear annihilation of millions, perhaps billions, of the worlds people. Meanwhile, in Washington and Berlin and London, the propaganda campaign for WWIII has been concocted and disseminated to every daily newspaper, every local news station, every celebrity awards program: Ukraine, a beacon of democracy, has been violated by yet another evil autarch on the world stage, this time bearing the name Putin. No explanation is to be found or sought for in this clash of vast armies along a front contested in the Napoleonic wars, World War I and World War II. No explanation but the malignant heart of Vladimir Putin. So say the military experts on Meet the Press, so say the pundits in the New York Times, so say the actors receiving Golden Globes, and so says Steve Van Zandts guitar. In language suggesting he is confusing himself with the mobster character he played on The Sopranos, Van Zandt posted this vile tweet on March 1, 2022, five days after the Russian invasion: Ukraine is sickening. Watching a country be destroyed live on tv. We should call Putins bluff because he aint nukin dick. Wipe out that convoy and say what are you gonna to [sic] about it? All bullies are pussies. On April 13, 2022, Van Zandt replied to a tweet complaining that the US had not militarily confronted Russia over Ukraine: I swear Im getting PTSD from this. This is deeply depressing down to my soul. I have been criticizing our country from a patriotic point of view my whole adult life for the mistakes we have made. But this is by far the worst. I will never again feel the same way about my country. The worst mistake the US has made in Van Zandts lifetime is its tardiness in moving toward a new world war. How does a person arrive at such a formulation? In January 2023 Van Zandt is still at it, baying for war. On January 16, he tweeted: Until we give Ukraine the long range weapons to take out some Russian cities this war never ends. It is criminal and cowardly that we havent. Then again its criminal and cowardly that NATO watched this terrorism without defending them in the first place. When someone pointed out that his proposal was a definition of WWIII that would send the war to a level the world has never seen before and that it would 100% cause a nuclear strike against Ukraine, Van Zandt replied, recklessly echoing every NATO political and military leader, Thats the lie that allowed Putin to bully the world. Another critic noted that if the US provided such weapons to Ukraine and the latter attacked Russia proper, we escalate to an active role in this conflict. If Russia is attacked and they know they can't fight us conventional then their only recourse is to use nuclear weapons. Again, the danger of nuclear holocaust had no impact on Van Zandts fanatical prowar stance: People who live as cowards are going to get bullied their entire lives, and nations are no different. Putin should have been stopped at Crimea. And should certainly be recognized as a terrorist and war criminal. So brave! Fighting to the last Ukrainian and Russian from the safety of a stadium backstage. On January 19, more of the same: We are not helping Ukraine enough. Dont believe the hype. Until Russian cities start getting hit this war will never end. We need to give Ukraine the weapons to end the war. Van Zandt is no stranger to political causes. In the early 1980s, he expressed his support for Polands Solidarity movement. In 1985, he organized Artists Against Apartheid to record his song Sun City, a song about boycotting apartheid South Africa. He is a strong Democratic Party supporter. The musician belongs to a layer of actors and celebrities who are being swept to the right, in the name of defending democratic Ukraine, supporting a regime infested with neo-Nazis that has outlawed much of the political opposition. Van Zandt is hardly alone. The WSWS has commented on the ferocious prowar comments and antics of another former left, Sean Penn. Actor Ben Stiller, whose father, comic Jerry Stiller, like Penns, once had left-wing associations, traveled to Kiev last June and told Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, Youre my hero. Actress Jessica Chastain, who played a CIA torturer in Zero Dark Thirty, also had a personal audience with Zelensky, in August 2022. Mark Hamill, Angelina Jolie, Jean-Claude Van-Damme, David Letterman, Mila Kunis, Ashton Kutcher the list goes on and on. These celebrities are using their fame to confuse and pollute public opinion, which is deeply and instinctively suspicious of the US and its endless, bloody wars for democracy. Van Zandt and presumably Springsteen, who has famously strummed and stumped for such hawks and war criminals as John Kerry, Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton, are part of this deplorable crowd. Van Zandts blue and gold guitar, which in concert will be playing the much admired Springsteen songs of the 1970s and 80ssongs that at their best celebrate a spirit of courage, of loyal friendship, of fun and, if not egalitarianism, at least individual decencythat guitar will at the same time be issuing its appeal for war. Steve Van Zandt is a very wealthy man. He embodies what has become of layers of the radicalized, semi-bohemian middle class of the 1970s: angry and disoriented, vulgar and self-idolizing. He is choosing not to see the facts about the war in Ukraine thatfor anyone old enough to remember the talk of weapons of mass destruction in Iraqare standing in plain sight. As the crisis of US capitalism intensifies, much of the affluent upper middle class will join Van Zandt in siding with the ruling elite and its murderous imperialist ambitions. But other artists and intellectuals will orient themselves to the working class, to internationalism and to socialism, the only alternative to the war Van Zandt craves. The past several days have seen feverish accusations by US authorities and media outlets of an alleged Chinese spy balloon hovering over ballistic missile launch sites in Montana. Pentagon spokesman US Air Force Brig. Gen. Patrick Ryder discussing Chinese weather balloon at media briefing, Friday, Feb. 3, 2023, in Washington. [AP Photo/Alex Brandon] From Chinas response and expert accounts, however, it appears that a clumsy, hard-to-manoeuvre, high-altitude weather test balloon was blown by winds across North America. On its current course, the balloon was expected to drift off the US east coast on Saturday. The claim that China would use such outmoded and difficult-to-control means to conduct surveillance over sensitive nuclear war sites, rather than sophisticated low-orbit satellites, is patently ridiculous. But the hysteria points to the increasingly strident war propaganda emanating from Washington against China, as well as the potential for such an incident to be inflated to trigger a military conflict. The Pentagon said it had readied fighter jets, including F-22s, to shoot down the craft if ordered to do so by President Joe Biden. On Friday, the White House abruptly used the incident to postpone a major two-day visit to Beijing by Secretary of State Anthony Blinken. Prominent figures in the US ruling establishment, including 2024 Republican presidential candidates ex-president Donald Trump and former South Carolina governor and UN ambassador Nikki Haley, demanded that the US military immediately shoot down the balloon. Biden apparently took Pentagon advice not to blow up the errant balloon, citing the danger of falling debris from the craft, which was said to be the size of three buses. Yet the administration took the confrontational step of calling off Blinkens trip, just before he was due to embark. The top-level visit had been agreed between Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping at a summit last November in Indonesia. Blinken was due to meet Xi to discuss the worsening US-China relations. In what appeared to be a conciliatory statement, the Chinese foreign ministry said on Friday that the balloon was a civilian airship used mainly for meteorological research. It said the airship had limited self-steering capabilities and deviated far from its planned course because of winds. The Chinese side regrets the unintended entry of the airship into US airspace due to force majeure, it said, citing a legal term used to refer to events beyond control. Nevertheless, the Pentagon effectively dismissed the statement. We are aware of the PRC [Peoples Republic of China] statement, Pentagon press secretary Brigadier General Patrick Ryder said. However, the fact is, we know that its a surveillance balloon. And Im not going to be able to be more specific than that. We do know that the balloon has violated US airspace and international law, which is unacceptable. Seeming to contradict the hype about surveillance over missile silos, Ryder said the balloon was currently over the centre of the continental US and did not present a military or physical threat to people on the ground. A Pentagon official confirmed that the US had assessed that the balloon had only limited value in terms of providing intelligence China could not obtain by other technologies, such as spy satellites. Despite playing down the threat, Ryder left open the option of military action. He said the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) was closely monitoring the balloon, which was roughly 60,000 feet above ground level, while the Biden administration weighed its options. All the circumstances surrounding the balloon affair are dubious. White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said Biden had been briefed about the balloon on Tuesday. But nothing was said publicly until Thursday evening, when the Pentagon announced it was tracking an intelligence-gathering balloon, most certainly launched by the Peoples Republic of China. The Pentagon said one of the places the balloon was spotted was over the northwestern state of Montana, which is home to one of Americas three nuclear missile fields at Malmstrom Air Force Base. That base reportedly has 150 intercontinental ballistic missile silos. US media quoted anonymous Pentagon officials as saying that the balloon had travelled from China to the Aleutian Islands of Alaska, and through northwest Canada for a few days before arriving somewhere over Montana, where it was supposedly hovering on Wednesday. Just after World War II, the US military started exploring the use of high-altitude spy balloons, which led to a large-scale series of missions called Project Genetrix. But this technology has been superseded by satellites, which can be accurately steered and equipped with advanced photographic and telecommunications-interception technology. Singapore-based security analyst Alexander Neill, an adjunct fellow at Hawaiis Pacific Forum think tank, told Reuters: China has its own constellation of spy and military satellites that are far more important and effective in terms of watching the US. An editorial in the China Daily, a state media outlet, was scathing. There is no way to know who fabricated the lie, but we can be sure about the ignorance of the fabricator, it commented. Surveillance balloons being used as military technology dates back to the early 20th century, the technology is outdated, one can hardly imagine any nation like China still resorting to it today; at the same time, the shortest route between Beijing and Montana is over 9,000km, which makes it impossible to precisely control the flight of this or any balloon. The extraordinary outburst of anti-China propaganda is entirely hypocritical to say the least. The US military undoubtedly uses its network of satellites to spy on Chinese military bases and activities. These are supplemented by ongoing intelligence gathering by US aircraft and spy ships operating close to the Chinese mainland. Moreover, the Pentagon has orchestrated one military provocation after another in the South China Sea by sending warplanes and warships through airspace and waters claimed by China, in the name of freedom of navigation. Whatever the exact political and geostrategic calculations by the White House in delaying or scrapping Blinkens visit, the decision came amid a mounting series of aggressive and provocative moves by the US against China. These steps have included trips by Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, an ex-general, to South Korea and the Philippines this past week to strength military alliances directed against China, including gaining access to five further military bases in the Philippines. At the same time, the US has ramped up efforts to sabotage China on hi-tech industries, including by ceasing approval licenses for American firms to export most items to Chinese technology giant Huawei and coercing the Netherlands and Japan to agree to join the US in limiting exports of advanced chipmaking equipment to China. US House of Representatives Speaker Kevin McCarthy is also reportedly planning to visit Taiwan, recognised internationally as part of China, a trip that is calculated to lead to a flare-up of tensions as did a similar trip last August by his Democratic Party predecessor Nancy Pelosi. As reports about the balloon were splashed in the media, CIA Director William Burns was speaking at an event at Washingtons Georgetown University, at which he called China the biggest geopolitical challenge currently facing the United States. That declaration reiterated the Biden administrations public naming of China as an existential threat to US global power. Burns also claimed that the US knew as a matter of intelligence that Xi had ordered his military to be ready to conduct an invasion of the island of Taiwan by 2027. Burns assertion followed this weeks leaking to the media of a blunt internal memo by Air Force General Michael Minihan predicting that the US would be at war with China over Taiwan by 2025 and ordering his commanders to implement detailed preparations. Thus, far from China seeking to intimidate or trigger a conflict with the US via a spy balloon, as shouted by the US and allied ruling elites and media, it is Washington that is escalating its confrontation with China. Temple graduate students on strike, January 31, 2023. [Photo: Temple University Graduate Students' Assoication] On Tuesday morning, 750 Temple University graduate student teaching and research assistants went on an indefinite strike against the campus administrations refusal to meet their demands. The graduate students are members of the Temple University Graduate Students Association (TUGSA) Local 6290. They are demanding higher pay, better work conditions, health care coverage for dependents and paid parental leave time. The average pay for teaching assistants and research assistants at Temple is miserable, at only $19,500 a year. Grad students are demanding a 50 percent pay increase, which would bring the base pay rate to $32,800; Temple is only offering a 3 percent raise, which would bring the average pay to $22,500 by 2026. According to a 2021 article on its recruitment website Zippia, in the city of Philadelphia where Temple is located, a good salary is considered anything over $47,000. This is the first time that TUGSA Local 6290 has gone on strike in its 20-year existence. Contract negotiations between the students and school have been going on for over a year, and graduate students voted in November to go on strike with 99 percent in favor. Temple University published a statement to the campus community, declaring our priority is the quality and continuity of your classes during this time. The university has threatened students participating in the strike, writing on its official web page that strike participants will not be paid, lose tuition subsidies and not receive healthcare coverage. According to the Philadelphia Inquirer, Temple University has recommended international students consult with an immigration lawyer for any potential impact on their visas before making a decision to strike. The university has sought to present the student workers as greedy. TUGSA continues to demand 50% pay increases, increases in free health coverage and other benefits not available to even full-time employees, the campus stated in a public comment, adding that it has made reasonable proposals for pay increases and benefits coverage. However, in addition to the low pay, the union says that a family plan, which the university does not provide, can cost more than 80 percent of a graduate students pay. International students are required to have health care coverage for themselves and their family to stay in the country. Temple has sought to justify its low pay and benefits to its workers by claiming poverty. Each university, like every employer, has different levels of resources and considerations when making decisions on major cost items like compensation. This is false. Temple has an endowment of nearly $875 million and reported $165 million revenue in 2021. School President Jason Wingard, a former Goldman Sachs executive, alone makes $1 million a year, and individuals on his management team earn six-figure salaries. The strike at Temple University comes amid an upsurge of workers struggles in the United States and internationally. The fight has been supercharged by the capitalist classs efforts to impose the cost-of-living crisis and other aspects of its failed pandemic policies onto the backs of working people. Graduate students, who form a superexploited layer of workers on all university campuses, have emerged as a center of strike activity. Last November, 48,000 University of Californias graduate students began the largest university workers strike in American history. At least 1,600 part-time faculty at The New School in New York City struck also in November. In January, the University of Illinois-Chicagos faculty and staff of 1,500 went on strike and are currently voting on the schools proposal. Johns Hopkins University graduate students have voted 2,053 to 67 to form a union, joining a wave of unionization among graduate students across the country. Internationally, 850 faculty and staff walked off their jobs at Newfoundland University in Canada on Monday, January 30. Over 3 million people marched in France on Tuesday against pension cuts proposed by President Emmanuel Macron. In Britain, half a million are marching against laws that would illegalize their right to strike. Also in Britain, around 115,000 postal workers are voting for strike action in their continuing dispute with Royal Mail. While graduate students are justified in fighting for better living standards, TUGSA has limited the issues of the strike to a lack of respect and [Temples] failure to seriously bargain. These vague grievances mean that the strike can be ended at any time so long as the university agrees to show respect in negotiations even if none of the demands are met. Even if TUGSAs demands were met without resistance from university negotiators, the graduate students would get a salary of $32,800 a year, which is still below the living wage for the city of Philadelphia. TUGSA is an affiliate of the American Federation of Teachers (AFT). On Friday, AFT President Randi Weingarten addressed the striking students of Temple University, giving empty rhetorical comments about the university failing to walk the walk and treat its workers with respect. Weingartens empty posturing is meant to evade the role that she and the AFT have played prior to the pandemic, when she traversed the United States shutting down and selling out educators strikes which threatened to escape the narrow confines of the union in states such as West Virginia, Arizona, Oklahoma and elsewhere. During the pandemic, Weingarten worked hand in hand with the Biden administration to reopen major school systems, which had gone to remote learning at the insistence of worried educators. In doing so, she lied to educators and promoted every false narrative about the pandemic, including the long-disproven claim that COVID-19 does not spread in schools. This was done at the behest of Wall Street, which required that school-aged students be in their classes so that their parents could return to work to produce profits. Weingartens deceptions reached new levels of criminality in late 2021. She hosted several online panels with Open Schools USA, an organization promoting the right-wing herd immunity concept. Members of that panel, such as Dr. Jay Bhattacharya and Dr. Tracy Heg, have most recently been featured guests of Floridas fascistic Republican Governor Ron DeSantis, who has invited speakers to rail against vaccinations and public health more generally. In Philadelphia, the AFT affiliate Philadelphia Federation of Teachers (PFT) railroaded public school teachers into unsafe classrooms during the pandemic, lying to them about the safety of their schools. This led to profound sickness and death, including of children. The Pennsylvania Rank-and-File Committee was formed to oppose the unsafe reopening of schools and agitated to keep the schools closed until the pandemic could be contained. After the death of a student at Olney Charter School in Philadelphia, it organized teacher opposition and helped to enforce the reimposition of remote classes against the orders of the PFT. The White House announced Friday that it would send long-range missiles capable of striking nearly 100 miles into Russian territory to Ukraine, in one of the most significant escalations of US involvement in the war with Russia to date. Following Washingtons tradition of the Friday afternoon news dump, the announcement was timed so as to garner as little public attention as possible. The pliant American media supported the Biden administrations goal of keeping the American public from understanding the consequences of this action. This massive escalation of the war against Russia received effectively no media coverage. It was not featured on the front pages of the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, or Washington Post, and was not reported on the evening network news shows. The weapons system, known as the ground-launched Small Diameter Bomb, is a rocket-launched maneuverable glide bomb with double the range of the HIMARS missiles Washington has already provided. Airmen with the 3rd Munitions Squadron assemble a rack of inert small diameter bombs during readiness training at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, Feb. 9, 2018. The small diameter bomb is a precise and accurate weapon that allows the the F-22 Raptor to deliver decisive air power. (U.S. Air Force photo by Alejandro Pena) The announcement marks a repudiation of Bidens pledge in May that We are not encouraging or enabling Ukraine to strike beyond its borders, and his declaration that Were not going to send to Ukraine rocket systems that strike into Russia. The announcement is the latest in a whirlwind escalation of US involvement in the war over the past week. On January 26, the White House declared that it would send 31 Abrams main battle tanks to Ukraine, as part of a coalition of NATO countries sending over 120 main battle tanks in the first wave. No sooner was this announcement made than the White House revealed that it was in discussions to send F-16 fighters to Ukraine, against the backdrop of demands by Democratic and Republican politicians and dominant sections of the US media to send the aircraft. The expected announcement of the new long-range weapons comes as press reports indicate that the Biden administration is discussing openly endorsing a Ukrainian assault on the predominantly Russian-speaking peninsula of Crimea, which Russia has claimed as its territory since 2014. While the Biden administration endorsed the Zelensky governments Crimean Platform back in 2021, which entails the retaking of Crimea, since the invasion of Ukraine by Russia, Washington had toned down its explicit endorsement for the official war aim of the Zelensky government in order to hide the massively escalatory character of its involvement in the war. Now, however, the New York Times reports, (T)he Biden administration is finally starting to concede that Kyiv may need the power to strike the Russian sanctuary, even if such a move increases the risk of escalation. The Times writes that the Biden administration is considering what would be one of its boldest moves yet, helping Ukraine to attack the peninsula. In an article for the think tank magazine Foreign Affairs, entitled What Ukraine Needs to Liberate Crimea, United States Army Lieutenant Colonel Alexander Vindman declared, Washington should give Ukraine the weapons and assistance it needs to win quickly and decisively. Vindman is the former director for European affairs for the US National Security Council. In the article, Vindman explained how a NATO-backed Ukrainian offensive against Crimea would proceed: The first step would be to pin down Russias forces in the Kherson and Luhansk regions and in the northern part of Donetsk. Next, Ukraine would free the remainder of Zaporizhzhia Province and push through southern Donetsk to reach the Sea of Azov, severing Russias land bridge to Ukraine. Ukrainian forces would also need to destroy the Kerch Strait Bridge, which connects Russia to the Crimean Peninsula and allows Moscow to resupply its troops by road and rail. What none of the planners of this offensive admit, however, is that its implementation will require a massive expansion of NATO involvement in the war, including not only the deployment of advanced weapons systems, but the direct deployment of NATO troops. Last week, explaining the deployment of the M1 Abrams tanks to Ukraine, the WSWS outlined how such a scenario could unfold: The significance of Bidens announcement lies less in the battlefield impact of the tanks than in the consequences of deploying them. The turbine-driven Abrams tanks will require a massive logistical network inside Ukraine, involving large numbers of specialist American contractors. Attacks on these supply networks and American personnel servicing the tanks will then be used to press for implementation of a no-fly zone and the deployment of US and NATO troops to Ukraine. Just one week after these words were written, the initial stages of this scenario are already being put into place. On Friday, Politico reported that A group of former military officers and private donors is raising money to send Western mechanics close to the Ukrainian frontlines, where they will repair battle-damaged donated weapons and vehicles that have been flooding into the country. The report continued, The plan is to find 100 to 200 experienced contractors who would travel to Ukraine and embed themselves with small units near the front lines. Under the project, called Trident Support, those contractors would in turn teach the Ukrainian troops how to fix their equipment on the fly. The claim that this initiative is being led by retired officers is merely a fraudulent pretense distancing the Biden administration from this deployment. While the deployment of the contractors may be voluntary, threats to the safety of the hundreds of American personnel on the front lines maintaining American vehicles could serve just as well as a pretext for US escalation of the war. The Mabinti Center Administrator Maria Peter speaks during interviews at the Comprehensive Community Based Rehabilitation Tanzania (CCBRT) in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania on Feb. 3, 2022. Seven women who have fully recovered from obstetric fistula treatment are busy in a room making high quality handmade bags, accessories and toys. These women have benefited from the specialized healthcare services operating in Dar es Salaam and Moshi in Tanzania, sponsored by the Comprehensive Community Based Rehabilitation Tanzania (CCBRT), a locally registered non-governmental organization (NGO). (Photo by Herman Emmanuel/Xinhua) DAR ES SALAAM, Feb. 4 (Xinhua) -- Seven women who have fully recovered from obstetric fistula treatment are busy in a room making high quality handmade bags, accessories and toys. These women have benefited from the specialized healthcare services operating in Dar es Salaam and Moshi in Tanzania, sponsors by the Comprehensive Community Based Rehabilitation Tanzania (CCBRT), a locally registered non-governmental organization (NGO). From its inception in 1994 as a provider of community-based rehabilitation, CCBRT has become the largest provider of disability and rehabilitative services in the east African nation. The seven women have been trained by the Mabinti Center, operating under CCBRT at Masaki in Dar es Salaam, since 2009 to empower women recovering from fistula surgery by teaching them vocational skills and entrepreneurial skills so that they can start their own business. The center also offers employment to graduates of the program like Mary Vivian Maziku, 29, a resident of Kinondoni suburb and a mother of a three-year-old son, who was trained at the center in 2014 and was employed by the center in 2015. "I learned about Mabinti Center when I was being treated for fistula by CCBRT in 2013. My message to the community is that we should not stigmatize fistula patients because the disease is treatable," Maziku told Xinhua in an interview on Friday while busy making a bag. The center is part of CCBRT's holistic model of care for women recovering from obstetric fistula, a childbirth related injury caused by prolonged or obstructed labor without timely medical intervention. The consequences of fistula are life shattering in which women with fistula suffer from chronic incontinence and 90 percent of women lose their babies during childbirth, according to CCBRT. "As a result of the injury, these women are often abandoned by their families and rejected from their communities, forced to live in shame and isolation," CCBRT says. Mariam Bakari Sobo, 30, a resident of Mbagala suburb and a mother of a nine-year-old son, said she joined the center in May 2019 and graduated in December 2019. "I joined the center after I was treated from fistula in February 2016 and recovered fully," said the soft-spoken woman, adding that she was referred to CCBRT by Temeke government hospital. "Since I was employed here I have obtained a sewing machine, and I have started my small tailoring business at home that gives me extra income for looking after my family," said Sobo. Maria Peter, the administrator for the center since November 2019, told Xinhua that since its establishment, the center has trained more than 170 women that have recovered from obstetric fistula. "Each year the center runs two classes each with 12 women. Some of them are sponsored by various organizations and some of them are funded by the center from the money it earns from selling the goods it makes," said Peter. She said the center makes a follow-up of their graduates to know their progress annually, and at the same time the center calls them on monthly basis to monitor their progress. "All the raw materials used at the center, mostly canvas, are obtained locally," said Peter, adding that the center also recycles discarded billboards to make goods like shopping bags. She said the center's goods made by the women are bought by foreign tourists and government institutions, adding that the center has a shop at the Slipway peninsular in Dar es Salaam. After the training program, each graduate is supplied with a business starter kit containing a sewing machine, scissors, a supply of fabric and a calculator, said Peter. "The women then return to their communities, equipped with the knowledge and resources needed to start their businesses and rebuild their lives," she said. Peter said the center is focusing on expanding its revenue-generating activities to support the training of more fistula survivors and provide more women with a sustainable income. CCRBT treats an average of over 100 women with obstetric fistula annually, but as many as 3,000 women develop obstetric fistula each year in Tanzania. A retired Turkish admiral said the United States, which has a high individual armament rate, poses a significant threat at both the national and international levels. Produced by Xinhua Global Service A folk artist performs at the Quyi fair in Majie Village of Baofeng County, central China's Henan Province, Feb. 3, 2023. The Majie Quyi Fair resumed its offline events after three years of suspension on Friday, the 13th day of the first month on the Chinese lunar calendar. Folk artists from across the country gathered in Majie village to take part in the fair. The folk art fair in Majie has a history of over 700 years. The event is said to originate from a prestigious folk artist in the village, whose many disciples gathered to celebrate his birthday in 1316. The birthday celebration later evolved into a folk art fair. Chinese folk art, or Quyi, has many forms, including ballad singing, story telling and cross talk, etc. (Xinhua/Lan Hongguang) Folk artists perform at the Quyi fair in Majie Village of Baofeng County, central China's Henan Province, Feb. 3, 2023. The Majie Quyi Fair resumed its offline events after three years of suspension on Friday, the 13th day of the first month on the Chinese lunar calendar. Folk artists from across the country gathered in Majie village to take part in the fair. The folk art fair in Majie has a history of over 700 years. The event is said to originate from a prestigious folk artist in the village, whose many disciples gathered to celebrate his birthday in 1316. The birthday celebration later evolved into a folk art fair. Chinese folk art, or Quyi, has many forms, including ballad singing, story telling and cross talk, etc. (Xinhua/Lan Hongguang) A folk artist performs at the Quyi fair in Majie Village of Baofeng County, central China's Henan Province, Feb. 3, 2023. The Majie Quyi Fair resumed its offline events after three years of suspension on Friday, the 13th day of the first month on the Chinese lunar calendar. Folk artists from across the country gathered in Majie village to take part in the fair. The folk art fair in Majie has a history of over 700 years. The event is said to originate from a prestigious folk artist in the village, whose many disciples gathered to celebrate his birthday in 1316. The birthday celebration later evolved into a folk art fair. Chinese folk art, or Quyi, has many forms, including ballad singing, story telling and cross talk, etc. (Xinhua/Lan Hongguang) Folk artists perform at the Quyi fair in Majie Village of Baofeng County, central China's Henan Province, Feb. 3, 2023. The Majie Quyi Fair resumed its offline events after three years of suspension on Friday, the 13th day of the first month on the Chinese lunar calendar. Folk artists from across the country gathered in Majie village to take part in the fair. The folk art fair in Majie has a history of over 700 years. The event is said to originate from a prestigious folk artist in the village, whose many disciples gathered to celebrate his birthday in 1316. The birthday celebration later evolved into a folk art fair. Chinese folk art, or Quyi, has many forms, including ballad singing, story telling and cross talk, etc. (Xinhua/Lan Hongguang) A folk artist puts on makeup at the Quyi fair in Majie Village of Baofeng County, central China's Henan Province, Feb. 3, 2023. The Majie Quyi Fair resumed its offline events after three years of suspension on Friday, the 13th day of the first month on the Chinese lunar calendar. Folk artists from across the country gathered in Majie village to take part in the fair. The folk art fair in Majie has a history of over 700 years. The event is said to originate from a prestigious folk artist in the village, whose many disciples gathered to celebrate his birthday in 1316. The birthday celebration later evolved into a folk art fair. Chinese folk art, or Quyi, has many forms, including ballad singing, story telling and cross talk, etc. (Xinhua/Lan Hongguang) Students perform at the Quyi fair in Majie Village of Baofeng County, central China's Henan Province, Feb. 3, 2023. The Majie Quyi Fair resumed its offline events after three years of suspension on Friday, the 13th day of the first month on the Chinese lunar calendar. Folk artists from across the country gathered in Majie village to take part in the fair. The folk art fair in Majie has a history of over 700 years. The event is said to originate from a prestigious folk artist in the village, whose many disciples gathered to celebrate his birthday in 1316. The birthday celebration later evolved into a folk art fair. Chinese folk art, or Quyi, has many forms, including ballad singing, story telling and cross talk, etc. (Xinhua/Lan Hongguang) Liu Lanfang, one of China's most outstanding storytelling master, performs at the Quyi fair in Majie Village of Baofeng County, central China's Henan Province, Feb. 3, 2023. The Majie Quyi Fair resumed its offline events after three years of suspension on Friday, the 13th day of the first month on the Chinese lunar calendar. Folk artists from across the country gathered in Majie village to take part in the fair. The folk art fair in Majie has a history of over 700 years. The event is said to originate from a prestigious folk artist in the village, whose many disciples gathered to celebrate his birthday in 1316. The birthday celebration later evolved into a folk art fair. Chinese folk art, or Quyi, has many forms, including ballad singing, story telling and cross talk, etc. (Xinhua/Lan Hongguang) Liu Lanfang, one of China's most outstanding storytelling master, performs at the Quyi fair in Majie Village of Baofeng County, central China's Henan Province, Feb. 3, 2023. The Majie Quyi Fair resumed its offline events after three years of suspension on Friday, the 13th day of the first month on the Chinese lunar calendar. Folk artists from across the country gathered in Majie village to take part in the fair. The folk art fair in Majie has a history of over 700 years. The event is said to originate from a prestigious folk artist in the village, whose many disciples gathered to celebrate his birthday in 1316. The birthday celebration later evolved into a folk art fair. Chinese folk art, or Quyi, has many forms, including ballad singing, story telling and cross talk, etc. (Xinhua/Lan Hongguang) A folk artist performs at the Quyi fair in Majie Village of Baofeng County, central China's Henan Province, Feb. 3, 2023. The Majie Quyi Fair resumed its offline events after three years of suspension on Friday, the 13th day of the first month on the Chinese lunar calendar. Folk artists from across the country gathered in Majie village to take part in the fair. The folk art fair in Majie has a history of over 700 years. The event is said to originate from a prestigious folk artist in the village, whose many disciples gathered to celebrate his birthday in 1316. The birthday celebration later evolved into a folk art fair. Chinese folk art, or Quyi, has many forms, including ballad singing, story telling and cross talk, etc. (Xinhua/Lan Hongguang) A folk artist performs at the Quyi fair in Majie Village of Baofeng County, central China's Henan Province, Feb. 3, 2023. The Majie Quyi Fair resumed its offline events after three years of suspension on Friday, the 13th day of the first month on the Chinese lunar calendar. Folk artists from across the country gathered in Majie village to take part in the fair. The folk art fair in Majie has a history of over 700 years. The event is said to originate from a prestigious folk artist in the village, whose many disciples gathered to celebrate his birthday in 1316. The birthday celebration later evolved into a folk art fair. Chinese folk art, or Quyi, has many forms, including ballad singing, story telling and cross talk, etc. (Xinhua/Lan Hongguang) Folk artists perform at the Quyi fair in Majie Village of Baofeng County, central China's Henan Province, Feb. 3, 2023. The Majie Quyi Fair resumed its offline events after three years of suspension on Friday, the 13th day of the first month on the Chinese lunar calendar. Folk artists from across the country gathered in Majie village to take part in the fair. The folk art fair in Majie has a history of over 700 years. The event is said to originate from a prestigious folk artist in the village, whose many disciples gathered to celebrate his birthday in 1316. The birthday celebration later evolved into a folk art fair. Chinese folk art, or Quyi, has many forms, including ballad singing, story telling and cross talk, etc. (Xinhua/Lan Hongguang) A folk artist performs at the Quyi fair in Majie Village of Baofeng County, central China's Henan Province, Feb. 3, 2023. The Majie Quyi Fair resumed its offline events after three years of suspension on Friday, the 13th day of the first month on the Chinese lunar calendar. Folk artists from across the country gathered in Majie village to take part in the fair. The folk art fair in Majie has a history of over 700 years. The event is said to originate from a prestigious folk artist in the village, whose many disciples gathered to celebrate his birthday in 1316. The birthday celebration later evolved into a folk art fair. Chinese folk art, or Quyi, has many forms, including ballad singing, story telling and cross talk, etc. (Xinhua/Lan Hongguang) People enjoy performances at the Quyi fair in Majie Village of Baofeng County, central China's Henan Province, Feb. 3, 2023. The Majie Quyi Fair resumed its offline events after three years of suspension on Friday, the 13th day of the first month on the Chinese lunar calendar. Folk artists from across the country gathered in Majie village to take part in the fair. The folk art fair in Majie has a history of over 700 years. The event is said to originate from a prestigious folk artist in the village, whose many disciples gathered to celebrate his birthday in 1316. The birthday celebration later evolved into a folk art fair. Chinese folk art, or Quyi, has many forms, including ballad singing, story telling and cross talk, etc. (Xinhua/Lan Hongguang) Folk artists perform at the Quyi fair in Majie Village of Baofeng County, central China's Henan Province, Feb. 3, 2023. The Majie Quyi Fair resumed its offline events after three years of suspension on Friday, the 13th day of the first month on the Chinese lunar calendar. Folk artists from across the country gathered in Majie village to take part in the fair. The folk art fair in Majie has a history of over 700 years. The event is said to originate from a prestigious folk artist in the village, whose many disciples gathered to celebrate his birthday in 1316. The birthday celebration later evolved into a folk art fair. Chinese folk art, or Quyi, has many forms, including ballad singing, story telling and cross talk, etc. (Xinhua/Lan Hongguang) A folk artist performs at the Quyi fair in Majie Village of Baofeng County, central China's Henan Province, Feb. 3, 2023. The Majie Quyi Fair resumed its offline events after three years of suspension on Friday, the 13th day of the first month on the Chinese lunar calendar. Folk artists from across the country gathered in Majie village to take part in the fair. The folk art fair in Majie has a history of over 700 years. The event is said to originate from a prestigious folk artist in the village, whose many disciples gathered to celebrate his birthday in 1316. The birthday celebration later evolved into a folk art fair. Chinese folk art, or Quyi, has many forms, including ballad singing, story telling and cross talk, etc. (Xinhua/Cai Xiangxin) A folk artist performs at the Quyi fair in Majie Village of Baofeng County, central China's Henan Province, Feb. 3, 2023. The Majie Quyi Fair resumed its offline events after three years of suspension on Friday, the 13th day of the first month on the Chinese lunar calendar. Folk artists from across the country gathered in Majie village to take part in the fair. The folk art fair in Majie has a history of over 700 years. The event is said to originate from a prestigious folk artist in the village, whose many disciples gathered to celebrate his birthday in 1316. The birthday celebration later evolved into a folk art fair. Chinese folk art, or Quyi, has many forms, including ballad singing, story telling and cross talk, etc. (Xinhua/Lan Hongguang) Folk artists perform at the Quyi fair in Majie Village of Baofeng County, central China's Henan Province, Feb. 3, 2023. The Majie Quyi Fair resumed its offline events after three years of suspension on Friday, the 13th day of the first month on the Chinese lunar calendar. Folk artists from across the country gathered in Majie village to take part in the fair. The folk art fair in Majie has a history of over 700 years. The event is said to originate from a prestigious folk artist in the village, whose many disciples gathered to celebrate his birthday in 1316. The birthday celebration later evolved into a folk art fair. Chinese folk art, or Quyi, has many forms, including ballad singing, story telling and cross talk, etc. (Xinhua/Song Yanhua) This photo taken on Feb. 3, 2023 shows the Quyi fair in Majie Village of Baofeng County, central China's Henan Province. The Majie Quyi Fair resumed its offline events after three years of suspension on Friday, the 13th day of the first month on the Chinese lunar calendar. Folk artists from across the country gathered in Majie village to take part in the fair. The folk art fair in Majie has a history of over 700 years. The event is said to originate from a prestigious folk artist in the village, whose many disciples gathered to celebrate his birthday in 1316. The birthday celebration later evolved into a folk art fair. Chinese folk art, or Quyi, has many forms, including ballad singing, story telling and cross talk, etc. (Xinhua/Lan Hongguang) A folk artist performs at the Quyi fair in Majie Village of Baofeng County, central China's Henan Province, Feb. 3, 2023. The Majie Quyi Fair resumed its offline events after three years of suspension on Friday, the 13th day of the first month on the Chinese lunar calendar. Folk artists from across the country gathered in Majie village to take part in the fair. The folk art fair in Majie has a history of over 700 years. The event is said to originate from a prestigious folk artist in the village, whose many disciples gathered to celebrate his birthday in 1316. The birthday celebration later evolved into a folk art fair. Chinese folk art, or Quyi, has many forms, including ballad singing, story telling and cross talk, etc. (Xinhua/Lan Hongguang) A folk artist performs at the Quyi fair in Majie Village of Baofeng County, central China's Henan Province, Feb. 3, 2023. The Majie Quyi Fair resumed its offline events after three years of suspension on Friday, the 13th day of the first month on the Chinese lunar calendar. Folk artists from across the country gathered in Majie village to take part in the fair. The folk art fair in Majie has a history of over 700 years. The event is said to originate from a prestigious folk artist in the village, whose many disciples gathered to celebrate his birthday in 1316. The birthday celebration later evolved into a folk art fair. Chinese folk art, or Quyi, has many forms, including ballad singing, story telling and cross talk, etc. (Xinhua/Lan Hongguang) A folk artist performs at the Quyi fair in Majie Village of Baofeng County, central China's Henan Province, Feb. 3, 2023. The Majie Quyi Fair resumed its offline events after three years of suspension on Friday, the 13th day of the first month on the Chinese lunar calendar. Folk artists from across the country gathered in Majie village to take part in the fair. The folk art fair in Majie has a history of over 700 years. The event is said to originate from a prestigious folk artist in the village, whose many disciples gathered to celebrate his birthday in 1316. The birthday celebration later evolved into a folk art fair. Chinese folk art, or Quyi, has many forms, including ballad singing, story telling and cross talk, etc. (Xinhua/Lan Hongguang) This aerial photo taken on Feb. 3, 2023 shows the Quyi fair in Majie Village of Baofeng County, central China's Henan Province. The Majie Quyi Fair resumed its offline events after three years of suspension on Friday, the 13th day of the first month on the Chinese lunar calendar. Folk artists from across the country gathered in Majie village to take part in the fair. The folk art fair in Majie has a history of over 700 years. The event is said to originate from a prestigious folk artist in the village, whose many disciples gathered to celebrate his birthday in 1316. The birthday celebration later evolved into a folk art fair. Chinese folk art, or Quyi, has many forms, including ballad singing, story telling and cross talk, etc. (Xinhua/Li An) This photo taken on Feb. 3, 2023 shows the Quyi fair in Majie Village of Baofeng County, central China's Henan Province. The Majie Quyi Fair resumed its offline events after three years of suspension on Friday, the 13th day of the first month on the Chinese lunar calendar. Folk artists from across the country gathered in Majie village to take part in the fair. The folk art fair in Majie has a history of over 700 years. The event is said to originate from a prestigious folk artist in the village, whose many disciples gathered to celebrate his birthday in 1316. The birthday celebration later evolved into a folk art fair. Chinese folk art, or Quyi, has many forms, including ballad singing, story telling and cross talk, etc. (Xinhua/Lan Hongguang) Folk artists perform at the Quyi fair in Majie Village of Baofeng County, central China's Henan Province, Feb. 3, 2023. The Majie Quyi Fair resumed its offline events after three years of suspension on Friday, the 13th day of the first month on the Chinese lunar calendar. Folk artists from across the country gathered in Majie village to take part in the fair. The folk art fair in Majie has a history of over 700 years. The event is said to originate from a prestigious folk artist in the village, whose many disciples gathered to celebrate his birthday in 1316. The birthday celebration later evolved into a folk art fair. Chinese folk art, or Quyi, has many forms, including ballad singing, story telling and cross talk, etc. (Xinhua/Lan Hongguang) A folk artist performs at the Quyi fair in Majie Village of Baofeng County, central China's Henan Province, Feb. 3, 2023. The Majie Quyi Fair resumed its offline events after three years of suspension on Friday, the 13th day of the first month on the Chinese lunar calendar. Folk artists from across the country gathered in Majie village to take part in the fair. The folk art fair in Majie has a history of over 700 years. The event is said to originate from a prestigious folk artist in the village, whose many disciples gathered to celebrate his birthday in 1316. The birthday celebration later evolved into a folk art fair. Chinese folk art, or Quyi, has many forms, including ballad singing, story telling and cross talk, etc. (Xinhua/Lan Hongguang) A child enjoys performances at the Quyi fair in Majie Village of Baofeng County, central China's Henan Province, Feb. 3, 2023. The Majie Quyi Fair resumed its offline events after three years of suspension on Friday, the 13th day of the first month on the Chinese lunar calendar. Folk artists from across the country gathered in Majie village to take part in the fair. The folk art fair in Majie has a history of over 700 years. The event is said to originate from a prestigious folk artist in the village, whose many disciples gathered to celebrate his birthday in 1316. The birthday celebration later evolved into a folk art fair. Chinese folk art, or Quyi, has many forms, including ballad singing, story telling and cross talk, etc. (Xinhua/Lan Hongguang) A folk artist performs at the Quyi fair in Majie Village of Baofeng County, central China's Henan Province, Feb. 3, 2023. The Majie Quyi Fair resumed its offline events after three years of suspension on Friday, the 13th day of the first month on the Chinese lunar calendar. Folk artists from across the country gathered in Majie village to take part in the fair. The folk art fair in Majie has a history of over 700 years. The event is said to originate from a prestigious folk artist in the village, whose many disciples gathered to celebrate his birthday in 1316. The birthday celebration later evolved into a folk art fair. Chinese folk art, or Quyi, has many forms, including ballad singing, story telling and cross talk, etc. (Xinhua/Lan Hongguang) A folk artist puts on makeup at the Quyi fair in Majie Village of Baofeng County, central China's Henan Province, Feb. 3, 2023. The Majie Quyi Fair resumed its offline events after three years of suspension on Friday, the 13th day of the first month on the Chinese lunar calendar. Folk artists from across the country gathered in Majie village to take part in the fair. The folk art fair in Majie has a history of over 700 years. The event is said to originate from a prestigious folk artist in the village, whose many disciples gathered to celebrate his birthday in 1316. The birthday celebration later evolved into a folk art fair. Chinese folk art, or Quyi, has many forms, including ballad singing, story telling and cross talk, etc. (Xinhua/Lan Hongguang) A folk artist performs at the Quyi fair in Majie Village of Baofeng County, central China's Henan Province, Feb. 3, 2023. The Majie Quyi Fair resumed its offline events after three years of suspension on Friday, the 13th day of the first month on the Chinese lunar calendar. Folk artists from across the country gathered in Majie village to take part in the fair. The folk art fair in Majie has a history of over 700 years. The event is said to originate from a prestigious folk artist in the village, whose many disciples gathered to celebrate his birthday in 1316. The birthday celebration later evolved into a folk art fair. Chinese folk art, or Quyi, has many forms, including ballad singing, story telling and cross talk, etc. (Xinhua/Lan Hongguang) A folk artist performs at the Quyi fair in Majie Village of Baofeng County, central China's Henan Province, Feb. 3, 2023. The Majie Quyi Fair resumed its offline events after three years of suspension on Friday, the 13th day of the first month on the Chinese lunar calendar. Folk artists from across the country gathered in Majie village to take part in the fair. The folk art fair in Majie has a history of over 700 years. The event is said to originate from a prestigious folk artist in the village, whose many disciples gathered to celebrate his birthday in 1316. The birthday celebration later evolved into a folk art fair. Chinese folk art, or Quyi, has many forms, including ballad singing, story telling and cross talk, etc. (Xinhua/Lan Hongguang) A folk artist performs at the Quyi fair in Majie Village of Baofeng County, central China's Henan Province, Feb. 3, 2023. The Majie Quyi Fair resumed its offline events after three years of suspension on Friday, the 13th day of the first month on the Chinese lunar calendar. Folk artists from across the country gathered in Majie village to take part in the fair. The folk art fair in Majie has a history of over 700 years. The event is said to originate from a prestigious folk artist in the village, whose many disciples gathered to celebrate his birthday in 1316. The birthday celebration later evolved into a folk art fair. Chinese folk art, or Quyi, has many forms, including ballad singing, story telling and cross talk, etc. (Xinhua/Lan Hongguang) Folk artists perform at the Quyi fair in Majie Village of Baofeng County, central China's Henan Province, Feb. 3, 2023. The Majie Quyi Fair resumed its offline events after three years of suspension on Friday, the 13th day of the first month on the Chinese lunar calendar. Folk artists from across the country gathered in Majie village to take part in the fair. The folk art fair in Majie has a history of over 700 years. The event is said to originate from a prestigious folk artist in the village, whose many disciples gathered to celebrate his birthday in 1316. The birthday celebration later evolved into a folk art fair. Chinese folk art, or Quyi, has many forms, including ballad singing, story telling and cross talk, etc. (Xinhua/Song Yanhua) A folk artist performs at the Quyi fair in Majie Village of Baofeng County, central China's Henan Province, Feb. 3, 2023. The Majie Quyi Fair resumed its offline events after three years of suspension on Friday, the 13th day of the first month on the Chinese lunar calendar. Folk artists from across the country gathered in Majie village to take part in the fair. The folk art fair in Majie has a history of over 700 years. The event is said to originate from a prestigious folk artist in the village, whose many disciples gathered to celebrate his birthday in 1316. The birthday celebration later evolved into a folk art fair. Chinese folk art, or Quyi, has many forms, including ballad singing, story telling and cross talk, etc. (Xinhua/Li An) Folk artists perform at the Quyi fair in Majie Village of Baofeng County, central China's Henan Province, Feb. 3, 2023. The Majie Quyi Fair resumed its offline events after three years of suspension on Friday, the 13th day of the first month on the Chinese lunar calendar. Folk artists from across the country gathered in Majie village to take part in the fair. The folk art fair in Majie has a history of over 700 years. The event is said to originate from a prestigious folk artist in the village, whose many disciples gathered to celebrate his birthday in 1316. The birthday celebration later evolved into a folk art fair. Chinese folk art, or Quyi, has many forms, including ballad singing, story telling and cross talk, etc. (Xinhua/Li An) This aerial photo taken on Feb. 3, 2023 shows folk artists performing at the Quyi fair in Majie Village of Baofeng County, central China's Henan Province. The Majie Quyi Fair resumed its offline events after three years of suspension on Friday, the 13th day of the first month on the Chinese lunar calendar. Folk artists from across the country gathered in Majie village to take part in the fair. The folk art fair in Majie has a history of over 700 years. The event is said to originate from a prestigious folk artist in the village, whose many disciples gathered to celebrate his birthday in 1316. The birthday celebration later evolved into a folk art fair. Chinese folk art, or Quyi, has many forms, including ballad singing, story telling and cross talk, etc. (Xinhua/Li An) Folk artists perform at the Quyi fair in Majie Village of Baofeng County, central China's Henan Province, Feb. 3, 2023. The Majie Quyi Fair resumed its offline events after three years of suspension on Friday, the 13th day of the first month on the Chinese lunar calendar. Folk artists from across the country gathered in Majie village to take part in the fair. The folk art fair in Majie has a history of over 700 years. The event is said to originate from a prestigious folk artist in the village, whose many disciples gathered to celebrate his birthday in 1316. The birthday celebration later evolved into a folk art fair. Chinese folk art, or Quyi, has many forms, including ballad singing, story telling and cross talk, etc. (Xinhua/Cai Xiangxin) A folk artist introduces his instruments at the Quyi fair in Majie Village of Baofeng County, central China's Henan Province, Feb. 3, 2023. The Majie Quyi Fair resumed its offline events after three years of suspension on Friday, the 13th day of the first month on the Chinese lunar calendar. Folk artists from across the country gathered in Majie village to take part in the fair. The folk art fair in Majie has a history of over 700 years. The event is said to originate from a prestigious folk artist in the village, whose many disciples gathered to celebrate his birthday in 1316. The birthday celebration later evolved into a folk art fair. Chinese folk art, or Quyi, has many forms, including ballad singing, story telling and cross talk, etc. (Xinhua/Song Yanhua) People visit the Quyi fair in Majie Village of Baofeng County, central China's Henan Province, Feb. 3, 2023. The Majie Quyi Fair resumed its offline events after three years of suspension on Friday, the 13th day of the first month on the Chinese lunar calendar. Folk artists from across the country gathered in Majie village to take part in the fair. The folk art fair in Majie has a history of over 700 years. The event is said to originate from a prestigious folk artist in the village, whose many disciples gathered to celebrate his birthday in 1316. The birthday celebration later evolved into a folk art fair. Chinese folk art, or Quyi, has many forms, including ballad singing, story telling and cross talk, etc. (Xinhua/Li An) A folk artist performs at the Quyi fair in Majie Village of Baofeng County, central China's Henan Province, Feb. 3, 2023. The Majie Quyi Fair resumed its offline events after three years of suspension on Friday, the 13th day of the first month on the Chinese lunar calendar. Folk artists from across the country gathered in Majie village to take part in the fair. The folk art fair in Majie has a history of over 700 years. The event is said to originate from a prestigious folk artist in the village, whose many disciples gathered to celebrate his birthday in 1316. The birthday celebration later evolved into a folk art fair. Chinese folk art, or Quyi, has many forms, including ballad singing, story telling and cross talk, etc. (Xinhua/Cai Xiangxin) Folk artists perform at the Quyi fair in Majie Village of Baofeng County, central China's Henan Province, Feb. 3, 2023. The Majie Quyi Fair resumed its offline events after three years of suspension on Friday, the 13th day of the first month on the Chinese lunar calendar. Folk artists from across the country gathered in Majie village to take part in the fair. The folk art fair in Majie has a history of over 700 years. The event is said to originate from a prestigious folk artist in the village, whose many disciples gathered to celebrate his birthday in 1316. The birthday celebration later evolved into a folk art fair. Chinese folk art, or Quyi, has many forms, including ballad singing, story telling and cross talk, etc. (Xinhua/Li An) A folk artist performs at the Quyi fair in Majie Village of Baofeng County, central China's Henan Province, Feb. 3, 2023. The Majie Quyi Fair resumed its offline events after three years of suspension on Friday, the 13th day of the first month on the Chinese lunar calendar. Folk artists from across the country gathered in Majie village to take part in the fair. The folk art fair in Majie has a history of over 700 years. The event is said to originate from a prestigious folk artist in the village, whose many disciples gathered to celebrate his birthday in 1316. The birthday celebration later evolved into a folk art fair. Chinese folk art, or Quyi, has many forms, including ballad singing, story telling and cross talk, etc. (Xinhua/Song Yanhua) A folk artist performs at the Quyi fair in Majie Village of Baofeng County, central China's Henan Province, Feb. 3, 2023. The Majie Quyi Fair resumed its offline events after three years of suspension on Friday, the 13th day of the first month on the Chinese lunar calendar. Folk artists from across the country gathered in Majie village to take part in the fair. The folk art fair in Majie has a history of over 700 years. The event is said to originate from a prestigious folk artist in the village, whose many disciples gathered to celebrate his birthday in 1316. The birthday celebration later evolved into a folk art fair. Chinese folk art, or Quyi, has many forms, including ballad singing, story telling and cross talk, etc. (Xinhua/Cai Xiangxin) A folk artist performs at the Quyi fair in Majie Village of Baofeng County, central China's Henan Province, Feb. 3, 2023. The Majie Quyi Fair resumed its offline events after three years of suspension on Friday, the 13th day of the first month on the Chinese lunar calendar. Folk artists from across the country gathered in Majie village to take part in the fair. The folk art fair in Majie has a history of over 700 years. The event is said to originate from a prestigious folk artist in the village, whose many disciples gathered to celebrate his birthday in 1316. The birthday celebration later evolved into a folk art fair. Chinese folk art, or Quyi, has many forms, including ballad singing, story telling and cross talk, etc. (Xinhua/Song Yanhua) A folk artist puts on makeup at the Quyi fair in Majie Village of Baofeng County, central China's Henan Province, Feb. 3, 2023. The Majie Quyi Fair resumed its offline events after three years of suspension on Friday, the 13th day of the first month on the Chinese lunar calendar. Folk artists from across the country gathered in Majie village to take part in the fair. The folk art fair in Majie has a history of over 700 years. The event is said to originate from a prestigious folk artist in the village, whose many disciples gathered to celebrate his birthday in 1316. The birthday celebration later evolved into a folk art fair. Chinese folk art, or Quyi, has many forms, including ballad singing, story telling and cross talk, etc. (Xinhua/Lan Hongguang) Folk artists perform at the Quyi fair in Majie Village of Baofeng County, central China's Henan Province, Feb. 3, 2023. The Majie Quyi Fair resumed its offline events after three years of suspension on Friday, the 13th day of the first month on the Chinese lunar calendar. Folk artists from across the country gathered in Majie village to take part in the fair. The folk art fair in Majie has a history of over 700 years. The event is said to originate from a prestigious folk artist in the village, whose many disciples gathered to celebrate his birthday in 1316. The birthday celebration later evolved into a folk art fair. Chinese folk art, or Quyi, has many forms, including ballad singing, story telling and cross talk, etc. (Xinhua/Song Yanhua) Folk artists perform at the Quyi fair in Majie Village of Baofeng County, central China's Henan Province, Feb. 3, 2023. The Majie Quyi Fair resumed its offline events after three years of suspension on Friday, the 13th day of the first month on the Chinese lunar calendar. Folk artists from across the country gathered in Majie village to take part in the fair. The folk art fair in Majie has a history of over 700 years. The event is said to originate from a prestigious folk artist in the village, whose many disciples gathered to celebrate his birthday in 1316. The birthday celebration later evolved into a folk art fair. Chinese folk art, or Quyi, has many forms, including ballad singing, story telling and cross talk, etc. (Xinhua/Song Yanhua) A folk artist performs at the Quyi fair in Majie Village of Baofeng County, central China's Henan Province, Feb. 3, 2023. The Majie Quyi Fair resumed its offline events after three years of suspension on Friday, the 13th day of the first month on the Chinese lunar calendar. Folk artists from across the country gathered in Majie village to take part in the fair. The folk art fair in Majie has a history of over 700 years. The event is said to originate from a prestigious folk artist in the village, whose many disciples gathered to celebrate his birthday in 1316. The birthday celebration later evolved into a folk art fair. Chinese folk art, or Quyi, has many forms, including ballad singing, story telling and cross talk, etc. (Xinhua/Lan Hongguang) A folk artist performs at the Quyi fair in Majie Village of Baofeng County, central China's Henan Province, Feb. 3, 2023. The Majie Quyi Fair resumed its offline events after three years of suspension on Friday, the 13th day of the first month on the Chinese lunar calendar. Folk artists from across the country gathered in Majie village to take part in the fair. The folk art fair in Majie has a history of over 700 years. The event is said to originate from a prestigious folk artist in the village, whose many disciples gathered to celebrate his birthday in 1316. The birthday celebration later evolved into a folk art fair. Chinese folk art, or Quyi, has many forms, including ballad singing, story telling and cross talk, etc. (Xinhua/Song Yanhua) A folk artist performs at the Quyi fair in Majie Village of Baofeng County, central China's Henan Province, Feb. 3, 2023. The Majie Quyi Fair resumed its offline events after three years of suspension on Friday, the 13th day of the first month on the Chinese lunar calendar. Folk artists from across the country gathered in Majie village to take part in the fair. The folk art fair in Majie has a history of over 700 years. The event is said to originate from a prestigious folk artist in the village, whose many disciples gathered to celebrate his birthday in 1316. The birthday celebration later evolved into a folk art fair. Chinese folk art, or Quyi, has many forms, including ballad singing, story telling and cross talk, etc. (Xinhua/Lan Hongguang) Liu Lanfang, one of China's most outstanding storytelling master, performs at the Quyi fair in Majie Village of Baofeng County, central China's Henan Province, Feb. 3, 2023. The Majie Quyi Fair resumed its offline events after three years of suspension on Friday, the 13th day of the first month on the Chinese lunar calendar. Folk artists from across the country gathered in Majie village to take part in the fair. The folk art fair in Majie has a history of over 700 years. The event is said to originate from a prestigious folk artist in the village, whose many disciples gathered to celebrate his birthday in 1316. The birthday celebration later evolved into a folk art fair. Chinese folk art, or Quyi, has many forms, including ballad singing, story telling and cross talk, etc. (Xinhua/Li An) A firefighter tries to put out flames during a forest fire in Nacimiento, Biobio region, Chile, Feb. 4, 2023. On Friday, Chilean President Gabriel Boric decreed a state of emergency in the Biobio and Nuble regions due to raging forest fires there. (Agencia UNO/Handout via Xinhua) SANTIAGO, Feb. 3 (Xinhua) -- At least five people died in southern Chile due to raging forest fires, which have consumed at least 8,333 hectares, official sources said Friday. Interior Minister Carolina Toha told reporters that four people had died in the commune of Santa Juana in the Biobio region, one of the areas most affected by the fires some 550 km south of the capital Santiago. They were either overtaken by the fire and burned or had an accident when they tried escaping the fire, she said. The fifth fatality was a firefighter who lost his life while fighting the Santa Juana blaze, Chile's Fire Department tweeted. Toha said that there are currently 151 active fires, with 65 under control and 39 being combatted. On Friday, President Gabriel Boric decreed a state of emergency in the Biobio and Nuble regions. This photo taken on Feb. 4, 2023 shows a view after a forest fire in Nacimiento, Biobio region, Chile. On Friday, Chilean President Gabriel Boric decreed a state of emergency in the Biobio and Nuble regions due to raging forest fires there. (Agencia UNO/Handout via Xinhua) This photo taken on Feb. 4, 2023 shows a view after a forest fire in Santa Juana, Biobio region, Chile. On Friday, Chilean President Gabriel Boric decreed a state of emergency in the Biobio and Nuble regions due to raging forest fires there. (Agencia UNO/Handout via Xinhua) Residents retrieve their properties from the debris after a forest fire in Tome, Biobio region, Chile, Feb. 4, 2023. On Friday, Chilean President Gabriel Boric decreed a state of emergency in the Biobio and Nuble regions due to raging forest fires there. (Agencia UNO/Handout via Xinhua) Residents clear debris after a forest fire in Tome, Biobio region, Chile, Feb. 4, 2023. On Friday, Chilean President Gabriel Boric decreed a state of emergency in the Biobio and Nuble regions due to raging forest fires there. (Agencia UNO/Handout via Xinhua) Firefighters try to put out flames during a forest fire in Nacimiento, Biobio region, Chile, Feb. 4, 2023. On Friday, Chilean President Gabriel Boric decreed a state of emergency in the Biobio and Nuble regions due to raging forest fires there. (Agencia UNO/Handout via Xinhua) ISTANBUL, Feb. 4 (Xinhua) -- The Chinese economy is expected to grow further in 2023 thanks to policies of the Communist Party of China (CPC), Turkish experts have said. Selcuk Colakoglu, director of the Ankara-based Turkish Center for Asia-Pacific Studies, told Xinhua in a recent interview that China's economy has entered a period of solid recovery, especially after the optimization of COVID-19 control measures at the beginning of this year. Colakoglu said that so many Chinese people traveled within China and abroad during the Spring Festival that it caused a boom in almost all sectors, most notably in transportation and tourism. This will grow even further after the holiday season when both Chinese and international business people are expected to travel for business purposes, he said. "All these activities will bring more positive circulations in the business world, and there will be more positive developments for Chinese sectors." Colakoglu praised the Chinese government's determination to increase factory productivity and to make China's industry and supply chains more resilient and safe with qualified Chinese human resources within the framework of its high-quality growth. "Chinese human resources are on the rise and China has a more qualified labor force," he said. "So all these plans for achieving high-quality development are underway." Echoing Colakoglu, Baris Doster, an academic at the Istanbul-based Marmara University, said that China will continue to be the engine of the world economy through the CPC's correct targets and policies. "Stable, healthy, and sustainable growth and a development in harmony with the environment and nature stand out among the goals of the CPC," Doster told Xinhua in an interview. China's economic achievements in 2022 proved that the government's policies have been bearing fruits despite the pandemic, he said. "In other words, it (all these positive signs about China's economy) shows that the goals of the CPC are met." Despite pandemic-induced setbacks, China's economy still grew 3 percent year on year to a record high of 121 trillion yuan (about 18 trillion U.S. dollars) in 2022, with the increment standing at 6.1 trillion yuan, equivalent to the economic aggregate of a medium-sized country. Bilal al-Sudani is not exactly a household name, which is all the more reason to highlight the fact that this dangerous terrorist leader has been removed. On Jan. 26, U.S. military troops killed 11 members of the Islamic State, including him. Members of this violent fundamentalist movement were engaged in a mountainous cave complex in Somalia. Sudani was a powerful effective leader, involved in broad coordination of military and terrorist operations. Islamic State has been formally classified as a terrorist organization by the United Nations. U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin announced the special military operation. His statement noted Bilal al-Sudani was responsible for fostering the growing presence of ISIS in Africa and for funding the groups operations worldwide, including in Afghanistan. Arthur I. Cyr Secretary Austin emphasized the crucial importance of intelligence professionals in making the successful operation possible. Earlier, on Jan. 20, U.S. Africa Command at the request of the Somali government undertook a successful joint military operation. This attack took place northwest of Mogadishu near an area named Galcad. Somali National Army troops were engaged in heavy combat there with the terrorist movement al-Sbabaab, based in Somalia. Previously, a decade ago, Sudani was involved in recruiting and training members of al-Shabaab. This organization is directly associated with al-Qaeda, which carried out the 9/11 mass murder attacks in the United States in 2001. For decades, Somalia has been generally regarded as a failed state, with the government unable to provide even elementary services or security. In 1993, a United States military mission to Somalia ended in frustration after the killing of eighteen U.S. Army Rangers. The book and film Blackhawk Down describe this. Pirates operating off the coast of Somalia are a continuing, vexing challenge. Al-Shabaab was formed around December 2006, from the shifting formations of extreme, essentially truly insane, terrorist groups. Included were extreme elements of the formerly stabilizing Islamic Courts Union. American terrorist Omar Hammami was involved until killed in a power struggle. Story continues Historically, Americans have been absent-minded about Africa. Past presidents generally focused on other parts of the world, with notable exceptions. Sen. John F. Kennedy was chairman of the African Affairs Subcommittee of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, extremely attentive to that task, and carried concern about Africa into the Oval Office. President Jimmy Carter in office and since has steadfastly worked with Africa. The Carter Center has devoted sustained emphasis to public health and related problems of that continent. One dramatic result is the virtual eradication of guinea worm, a devastating agonizing disease. Carter effectively leveraged his centers efforts into World Bank efforts targeting the disease. Former President Bill Clinton achieved rockstar status in Africa, a popular stop in his travels on behalf of the Clinton Foundation. Presidents George W. Bush and Barack Obama devoted at least periodic attention to the continent while in office, reflecting the changing times. President John F. Kennedy deserves credit for establishing the Peace Corps, a concept promoted by former First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt and Sen. Hubert Humphrey (D-Minnesota). The Peace Corps is remarkably durable, today involving selfless volunteers ranging widely in age. Related, enormous growth in private philanthropy means there are unprecedented opportunities to raise living standards across Africa. Basic safety and security, however, remains a challenge. Terrorists generate continuing death, destruction and headlines, but have yet to demonstrate appeal to the average person in Africa or elsewhere on the globe. The world today rejects extremism. Learn: Mrs. Roosevelt talks with JFK: bit.ly/3JAoY6s. Arthur I. Cyr is author of After the Cold War (NYU Press and Palgrave/Macmillan). Contact acyr@carthage.edu. This article originally appeared on Sturgis Journal: Arthur Cyr: U.S. special operations forces strike in Africa Julian Jefferson We are not done here in New Hampshire with the conversation on police reform. The brutal and deadly beating of Tyre Nichols in Memphis is yet another reminder that the conversation is not over, and the work is not done on the issue of police reform in this country or in our state. I am tired of hearing this did not happen in our state." Those words are not comforting in the least. Especially when, in this state, in the biggest police agency, in the most diverse city in our state, you have a detective in 2018 referring to Black men as parking tickets and I am stalking him like a jungle cat." This kind of dehumanization of a person (and unfortunately, all too often a Black man) leads to an officer being able to unleash such unspeakable cruelty on an unarmed Black man. In the summer of 2020, this state came together and passed meaningful police reforms. That movement was ignited by the murder of George Floyd in March of 2020 at the hands of police officers. An officer kneeled on George Floyds neck for over 8 minutes while George Floyd was pleading for his life saying repeatedly I cant breathe." I had the privilege of being a small part of that reform by serving as a commissioner on the Commission on Law Enforcement, Accountability, Community and Transparency (LEACT commission). I naively thought this workwould have more of an impact on aggressively rooting out and eliminating any elements of that toxic culture, that dehumanization of person that could lead to such tragic consequences. On Feb. 10, 2021, at 6:39 and 6:40 p.m., Detective Christian Horn of the Manchester Police Department sent text messages to two group chats containing approximately 10 other members of the department. The texts consisted of a mock Valentines Day card depicting an image of George Floyd surrounded by hearts and the words Black Love and You take my breath away. In the first group text, approximately three minutes later, another officer (a superior officer in rank) replied, Haha. Story continues Three years after the despicable texts from one Manchester detective dehumanizing Black men, and one year after the murder of George Floyd (and all the outrage and reforms that followed) another Manchester detective felt comfortable enough to send this racist meme, dehumanizing George Floyd and mocking his death to 10fellow members of his police organization. Two of those officers were his superiors. The two superior officers did nothing in response to this conduct. Instead, another officer had to go outside his chain-of-command to report the disturbing conduct. That officer is testament to the courage it takes to live up to the honor of the badge. The Manchester Police Department apparently accepted the representation of the superior officer who responded Haha to the meme was intending to respond to another joke in this conversation thread. None of the superior officers included in this text thread conversation received any formal discipline for their failure to take any actions to hold the Detective Horn accountable for his actions. The Manchester police are actively fighting in court to prevent the disclosure of the name of these superior officers to the public. The Manchester Police Department issued a three-day unpaid suspension to Detective Horn and required him to attend sensitivity training (the detective was later selected for a promotion to the rank of sergeant). The department deemed the meme as grossly inappropriate, but not indicative of racism on the part of the detective or systemic issues related to race within the department. I respectfully disagree. As a Black man, and as a resident of Manchester, I am left unimpressed by the response of the department. In 2013, a sergeant (not from the Manchester Police Department) felt comfortable to tell me (a defense attorney) if they run, they are going to have some lumps on them." To be clear they was used in a general way to refer to suspects. From 2013 until now, the objective truth I have observed shows that there is a real danger that a police agency can allow a culture to fester within its ranks that dehumanizes people and invites unspeakable violence that can vary from some lumps to I hope they stomp him to literally breaking someones face brutally kicking and punching it repeatedly until they die from those injuries. The response from political leaders to the chiefs of police who oversee the police agencies in our state needs to be clear: The toxic culture that leads to the dehumanization and violence to unarmed people (regardless of their race) cannot happen in our state, and we owe it to our citizens to do everything we can to identify and remove for our police forces that culture and the officers who perpetuate it. Julian Jefferson was born and raised in Boston (where some of his family members are current and former Boston police officers). Julian moved to New Hampshire in 2011 to attend law school and has resided here since. Julian was a public defender for 11 years in both the Nashua and Manchester offices. He is currently a visiting professor at UNH Law School. This article originally appeared on Portsmouth Herald: Commentary: There are racist police officers in NH; we need reform now The Democratic National Committee will follow President Joe Bidens recommendation to have South Carolina vote first in the 2024 presidential primaries. The Democratic National Committee will follow President Joe Bidens recommendation to have South Carolina vote first in the 2024 presidential primaries. The Democratic National Committee (DNC) voted Saturday to follow President Joe Bidens recommendation and drastically alter the partys early presidential primary schedule, elevating South Carolina, sidelining Iowa and angering New Hampshire. The new calendar passed by a voice vote at the DNCs winter meeting in Philadelphia, signaling overwhelming support for Bidens plan. This would amount to the largest shake-up in the presidential nominating process since then-Georgia Gov. Jimmy Carter put Iowa caucuses on the political map in 1976. Saturdays vote was largely a formality after the DNCs Rules and Bylaws Committee voted to approve the new schedule in early December. It would also give early voting status to Michigan and Georgia for the first time, significantly increasing the racial and geographic diversity of the early-voting states. With Biden unlikely to face a significant primary challenge in 2024 and with the DNC likely to revisit the changes before the next primary in 2028 its unclear how much effect they will have. Under the new calendar, Democratic primary voting would begin one year from this week. South Carolina would vote first on Feb. 3, followed by New Hampshire and Nevada on Feb. 6, Georgia on Feb. 13 and Michigan on Feb. 27. But the elevation of South Carolina to first place has proved the most controversial, setting up a direct clash with New Hampshire. The Granite States first-in-the-nation primary status is written into its state law, giving its secretary of state wide leeway to protect its prized status. You can try to come and take it, but that is never going to happen, Gov. Chris Sununu (R) said in his inauguration speech last month. Its just not in our DNA to take orders from Washington. We will not be blackmailed. We will not be threatened, and we will not give up. Story continues Neither New Hampshire nor Georgia both controlled by the GOP at the state level is likely to switch their primary to align with the new calendar. So instead, the DNC will likely vote on whether to somehow sanction either state at its next meeting this summer. In a statement after the vote, New Hampshire Democratic Party Chair Ray Buckley suggested the DNC was making a Biden victory in the state in 2024 infinitely harder. Despite todays vote, the fight is not over. As we have repeatedly pointed out, New Hampshire law requires us to hold the first-in-the-nation primary, and state Republican leaders have made clear that will not change, Buckley said. We sincerely hope that the DNC will join us in understanding this reality and work with us to elect not punish Democrats in our state. Beyond New Hampshire, national progressives have also questioned South Carolinas elevation, noting its deeply conservative electorate and history of fierce anti-union sentiment. South Carolina is already first in the nation at something that it shouldnt be proud of; it is the lowest-density union state in America, Faiz Shakir, the 2020 presidential campaign manager for Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), wrote in a New York Times opinion piece in December. It should thus never be in contention to be first on our calendar. Supporters of the changes argue they would empower South Carolinas Black voters, rewarding the most loyal members of the Democratic base. Black voters, in particular, have been the backbone of the Democratic Party but have been pushed to the back of the early primary process, Biden wrote in a letter to DNC members in December. We rely on these voters in elections but have not recognized their importance in our nominating calendar. It is time to stop taking these voters for granted and time to give them a louder and earlier voice in the process. Iowa, whose first-in-the-nation caucuses have long been derided as undemocratic and where voting went haywire in 2020, will no longer have a spot in the early voting calendar. Related... This photo taken on Feb. 3, 2023 shows the White House in Washington, D.C., the United States. The administration of U.S. President Joe Biden announced Friday an additional round of security assistance for Ukraine with a total value of 2.2 billion U.S. dollars. (Xinhua/Liu Jie) WASHINGTON, Feb. 3 (Xinhua) -- The administration of U.S. President Joe Biden announced Friday an additional round of security assistance for Ukraine with a total value of 2.2 billion U.S. dollars. The latest package was divided into two parts - 425 million dollars through the Presidential Drawdown Authority, and 1.75 billion dollars from the congressionally-approved Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative, according to a statement from the Defense Department. What's particularly noticeable in the materiel are long-range rockets for High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems, or HIMARS missile launchers that the United States have provided for Ukraine. The new rockets are GPS-guided Ground-Launched Small Diameter Bombs (GLSDB) with a range of roughly 90 miles, more than doubling the 40-mile range that previous U.S.-provided HIMARS-compatible missiles have. The GLSDB's range, however, falls short compared to that of the Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS), which has long been sought by Ukraine but refused by the United States for fear of escalation of the Russia-Ukraine conflict. The ATACMS has a range of nearly 200 miles. The U.S. government will contract with weapons manufacturers to provide the GLSDB, as well as two HAWK air defense firing units and unspecified "equipment to integrate Western air defense launchers, missiles, and radars with Ukraine's air defense systems." That means it will be months away from the actual delivery of these weapons. The United Sates has committed more than 29.3 billion dollars in security assistance for Ukraine since the Russia-Ukraine conflict broke out nearly a year ago, according to the Pentagon's statement. Melinda Dillon, who starred in Close Encounters of the Third Kind and A Christmas Story, has died. She was 83. While the news first made headlines Friday, an obituary page from a cremation provider in Long Beach, California, states that Dillon passed away Jan. 9. A cause of death for the two-time Oscar nominee hasnt been made public, but the reasons to celebrate her life have long been clear. Dillon was born Oct. 13, 1939, in Hope, Arkansas, and started acting at Chicagos Goodman Theatre, per a Turner Classic Movies biography. She was an original member of The Second City, the now-renowned improv hub for later talents like Tina Fey, Steve Carell and Chris Farley. Dillon would make her dramatic bones on Broadway, however, and study under legends like Uta Hagen and Lee Strasberg. She was nominated for a Tony Award in 1962 after performing in the original cast of Whos Afraid of Virginia Woolf? and starred in 1967s You Know I Cant Hear You When the Waters Running, per People. I had had the American dreamto go to New York and study with Lee Strasberg, Dillon told The New York Times in 1976. I guess I just wasnt prepared for it all to happen so quickly in New York. Im not sophisticated. Melinda Dillon was a founding member of The Second City improv troupe before arriving on Broadway. Melinda Dillon was a founding member of The Second City improv troupe before arriving on Broadway. After garnering small parts in daytime television shows such as Bonanza and The Jeffersons, Dillon broke into Hollywood with roles in Hal Ashbys Bound for Glory (1976) and opposite Paul Newman in George Roy Hills Slap Shot (1977). It was at Ashbys suggestion that Steven Spielberg cast Dillon in his science-fiction classic Close Encounters, per The Hollywood Reporter. Dillon, who got the part three days before filming, received an Oscar nomination for best supporting actress. Dillon became a mainstay on the coveted lists of casting agents for decades. She starred in F.I.S.T. (1978) opposite Sylvester Stallone, portrayed John Lithgows wife in Harry and the Hendersons (1987) and appeared in The Prince of Tides (1991) opposite Nick Nolte, under the direction of Barbra Streisand. Story continues Melinda Dillon was such a great actress, with a wonderful delicacy about her, Streisand tweeted Friday. She was a delight to direct in Prince of Tides. May she rest in peace. Dillon earned her second Oscar nomination for Absence of Malice (1981), a legal thriller directed by Sydney Pollack that reunited her with Newman. Her role as Mother Parker in Bob Clarks A Christmas Story (1983) is fondly remembered to this day. Dillon was cast in Spielberg's iconic Dillon was cast in Spielberg's iconic "Close Encounters of the Third Kind" (1977) mere days before filming began. So very, very sad to hear of the passing of Melinda Dillon, tweeted actor Lou Diamond Phillips. She played my adopted mother in Sioux City, my second directorial effort. What a Light and a Blessing. So effortless in her work that it was easy to overlook how brilliant she was. I feel so lucky to have known her, continued Phillips. RIP. Other notable credits include The Muppet Movie (1979), To Wong Foo (1995), Magnolia (1999) and Reign Over Me (2007). Married to late Second City alum Richard Libertini from 1963 until 1978, Dillon is survived by their son. Many of Dillons other peers, friends and colleagues are now paying tribute to her online. Many recent passings of wonderful actresses including Melinda Dillon. Her warmth and humanity was evident in every role. It really gives me pause to lose these ladies pic.twitter.com/bqlA6RGz9S Barbara Crampton (@barbaracrampton) February 4, 2023 The original Honey in Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf, too. I directed her 25 years ago on Tracey Ullman's show. She was lovely. RIP Melinda Dillon. https://t.co/1sgq03z3pU Michael McKean (@MJMcKean) February 4, 2023 Melinda Dillons work had such a profound effect on me. Every moment of her performance in Close Encounters was perfection. Im so grateful she decided to give her artistry to the world. https://t.co/QccHdzcgBd Jon Cryer (@MrJonCryer) February 4, 2023 Goodbye Melinda Dillon I worked with her and she was of course humble and kind. A pros pro. RIP Treat Williams (@Rtreatwilliams) February 4, 2023 REST IN PEACE, MELINDA DILLON pic.twitter.com/5VoqnR3gB0 Bryan Fuller (@BryanFuller) February 4, 2023 Related... Presidents Day is on Feb. 20 this year, and for many people that means a long, three-day weekend. But that's not true for everyone. Some across the United States can't agree on when to celebrate it or even how to spell it. In Alabama, it's "George Washington & Thomas Jefferson's Birthday." In Arkansas, you're celebrating "George Washington and Daisy Gatson Bates Day." If you live in Georgia or Indiana you won't be observing Presidents' Day until December. For New Mexico, that date is just after Thanksgiving. So why the disparities? We called local government offices and probed historians to find out: Is it Presidents, Presidents or Presidents Day? The correct spelling of "Presidents Day" is up for debate, but the federal government officially calls it Washington's Birthday. If you're talking about a holiday that celebrates multiple past Presidents, the correct phrase in English would be "Presidents' Day." If you're in favor of a day celebrating just Washington, it would be "President's Day," right? But The Associated Press Stylebook calls it "Presidents Day." Presidents Day 2023 early sales: Shop sales at Nordstrom, Samsung and Lowe's Washington's Birthday holiday technically celebrates the birth of George Washington and, in some states Abraham Lincoln. But other presidents are regularly honored alongside them. The George & Barbara Bush Foundation posted a video honoring the late George H.W. Bush for Presidents Day, and there are articles highlighting the accomplishments of former President Barack Obama for the holiday. In 2015, the Obama White House celebrated Presidents Day by revamping all past presidential bios. And in 2013, Obama tweeted using the plural possessive spelling of the holiday. What's it called in each state? Alaska, California, Hawaii, Illinois, Maryland, Nevada, New York, Oklahoma, Tennessee, Texas, Vermont and Washington list the holiday as Presidents Day on their state government calendars. Story continues Colorado, Idaho, Michigan, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Dakota, Ohio, Oregon, West Virginia and Wyoming have it written as Presidents Day. Several government sites from Minnesota, Pennsylvania and South Dakota write it as Presidents Day." Five states use a combination, like "Lincoln/Washington/Presidents Day" in Arizona and "Lincolns and Washingtons Birthdays" in Montana. Maine, South Carolina and Utah use similar names. Just curious?: We're here to help answer life's everyday questions Connecticut, Georgia, Indiana, Massachusetts, Mississippi, Missouri, Virginia and the District of Columbia use the federal name, Washingtons Birthday. Nine states dont observe the holiday at all. You wont find the February long weekend in Delaware, Florida, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, North Carolina, Rhode Island or Wisconsin. These states aren't the only ones looking to give the holiday the boot. In a 2012 60 Minutes/Vanity Fair poll, 35% of surveyed Americans said theyd choose to get rid of Presidents Day over other holidays like Martin Luther King Day, Memorial Day and Labor Day. What's in a name? George Washington's birthday was originally celebrated on the actual date of the first president's birthday, Feb. 22. When the Uniform Holiday Bill was signed in 1968, it moved some federal holidays to Mondays to prevent midweek shutdowns and give families longer weekends. Since then, it has been celebrated on the third Monday of February. Around this time, the country also began using the holiday to honor not only Washington but also Abraham Lincoln, whose birthday was Feb. 12. Republican Rep. Robert McClory spearheaded the bill, which caused outrage from some who objected to changing the date we celebrate Washingtons birthday. "We are not changing George Washington's birthday, McClory said. We would make George Washington's birthday more meaningful to many more people by having it observed on a Monday." Discover more: Here's why we really celebrate the federal holiday He also proposed changing the name to "Presidents Day" so Washington's and Lincolns birthdays could share the holiday. Many opposed this as well, and the measure failed to pass. Rep. Dan Heflin Kuykendall, R-Tenn., said, "If we do this, 10 years from now our schoolchildren will not know or care when George Washington was born. They will know that in the middle of February they will have a 3-day weekend for some reason. One-term presidents: Commanders-in-Chiefs denied a second term Presidential requirements: How old do you have to be to run for office? Jefferson joins the holiday in Alabama While some states have added Lincoln's birthday into the official holiday name, other states celebrate it separately. Lincoln's adopted home state of Illinois, as well as Missouri, New York and Connecticut observe his birthday on the weekday closest to the actual date, Feb. 12. In Alabama, however, Thomas Jefferson's birthday is also celebrated in February with Washington's on "George Washington and Thomas Jefferson's birthdays." But Jefferson's birthday is not even in February he was born on April 13. According to Carlie Burkett, a reference archivist at the Alabama Department of Archives & History, Jefferson's birthday was celebrated in April from 1907 until 1991 when it was combined with Washington's Birthday in February. "It appears that that's just to reduce the number of state holidays," Burkett says. Jefferson's connection to the state is not completely clear, though he did appoint the second governor of the Mississippi Territory and Alabama's first federal judge, according to documents from ADAH. In this 1969 Montgomery Advertiser newspaper clipping, Montgomery County celebrates Jefferson's birthday. According to Matthew Dennis, a University of Oregon professor whose work chronicles American identity, Jefferson himself actually preferred Inauguration Day, the honoring of "the office, not its occupier," to celebrating Washington's Birthday. "Jefferson himself, in his own time, sought to deflate the observation of Washingtons Birthday, believing that idolizing particular men, even the iconic Washington, was unworthy of a democracy," Dennis told USA TODAY in an email. So why not just have separate holidays to celebrate each? It's one way to prevent expanding the calendar, Dennis said. "Doubling up saves money while also satisfying a social and political responsibility to mark or remember," Dennis says. Shopping this Presidents Day?: It's what George Washington would have done! Some states honor Washington's birthday later in the year According to Nora Meyers Sackett, press secretary for New Mexico Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham, the state observes Presidents Day the day after Thanksgiving "presumably to more easily allow state employees to spend the Thanksgiving holiday with their families." Georgia's rationale for observing the holiday in December is the same. "The state opts to observe Washingtons birthday the day following Christmas to allow state employees to have that time with their loved ones," Shaistha Begum, communications director for the Department of Administrative Services, told USA TODAY in an email. "The state has done this with other holidays as well, including the day after Thanksgiving." Indiana also observes Washington's birthday the day after Christmas. A 1972 state law allows the governor to move the observance of state holidays to any other day of the year with the exception of Martin Luther King Jr.'s birthday. A State Personnel Department spokesperson confirmed to IndyStar that Washington and Lincoln's birthdays have been observed near Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays since 1979. Why does Daisy Gatson Bates share the day? Arkansas established Daisy Gatson Bates Day as an official state holiday in 2001. Bates was a prominent civil rights activist in Arkansas and was a personal advocate to the Little Rock Nine who became the first Black students to attend an all-white high school. Bates and her husband also started the Arkansas State Press, a weekly paper that supported civil rights. An Arkansas Democrat-Gazette newspaper clipping from 2001 shares the proposed plans to honor Daisy Gatson Bates. The bill, spearheaded by former Rep. Tracy Steele, was originally meant to share the third Monday in January Martin Luther King Jr. Day. It was later amended to George Washington's Birthday in February, according to documents provided by the Arkansas State Archives department. A 2001 Arkansas Democrat-Gazette article pointed to two reasons behind the date: February being Black History Month, and, as Steele said, "During a time of fiscal conservatism, we found a way to honor Daisy Bates that wouldn't cost the state anything." Martin Luther King Jr. Day history: Key dates in the 15-year fight for the holiday The nation's first president: Washington and unrecognized 'presidents' before him This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Presidents Day explained: How states celebrate holiday differently The Brooklyn Nets have been dealing with a lot over the past 24 hours or so. As they continue to move forward and hold down the fort until Kevin Durant returns from a sprained MCL, they have now been dealing with a trade request from Kyrie Irving. The Nets return home on Saturday to play host to the Washington Wizards and they will be looking to get back on track following a blowout loss to the Boston Celtics. They will obviously be short-handed with the injury to Durant, but now, they will go to battle without Irving as well. Due to right calf soreness, Irving will miss the matchup. Combine that with Durants injury and Ben Simmons remaining questionable, this will be a tough contest for Brooklyn against a Wizards team playing well as of late. Brooklyn Nets say Kyrie Irving (right calf soreness) is out tonight against Washington Wizards. Chris Haynes (@ChrisBHaynes) February 4, 2023 The Nets are still the No. 4 seed in the Eastern Conference, but they will need to find a way to rally together and get the job done on Saturday. Tipoff from the Barclays Center is set for 6 p.m. EST. List 5 Possible landing spots for Nets G Kyrie Irving before the trade deadline Related Tony Kornheiser on why Kyrie Irving is 'the worst teammate of all time' Chris Haynes: Kyrie Irving's camp did not negotiate after Nets' initial offer The Athletic: Brooklyn Nets offered Kyrie Irving extension before trade request Story originally appeared on Nets Wire Schoolchildren wearing face mask, go to the Kumsong Secondary School No. 2 in the morning in Pyongyang, North Korea, on Wednesday, Nov. 3, 2021. Cha Song Ho/AP People living in North Korea, or the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, live rigid and controlled lives. With a lack of connection to the outside world, North Koreans maintain their family ties and traditions. Photos show what different aspects of daily life look like for people in North Korea. Family is incredibly important to North Koreans. A boy and his grandmother wearing face masks walk on a street along the Pyongyang Railway Station in Central District of of Pyongyang, North Korea, Friday, Nov. 4, 2022. Jon Chol Jin/AP The concepts of family and lineage are important to North Koreans, many of whom have family in South Korea that they can only see on limited occasions, according to NPR. There are heavy restrictions on travel (partially due to the pandemic), according to a 2022 Human Rights Watch report. Most North Koreans live in poverty, though photos out of the capital city of Pyongyang wouldn't have you think that. Only a wealthy minority live in the modernized capital that some have called a "21st Century showpiece." Family reunions between the north and south have been on hold for years. North Korean refugee Jo Kyeong-hyeon, left, and his family members pay respect to their ancestors in North Korea to celebrate the Chuseok, the Korean version of Thanksgiving Day, at Imjingak Pavilion in Paju, near the border with North Korea, South Korea, Thursday, Oct. 1, 2020. Ahn Young-joon/AP According to NPR, South Korea in September proposed resuming the reunification meetings for families separated since the Korean War, but North Korea refused. Exchange programs between the two nations halted in 2019 amid broader nuclear discussions and later the coronavirus pandemic, per NPR. Still, they enjoy traditions with their neighbors, like making kimchi. A family in Somun-dong, Central District, prepares Kimchi for the coming winter with their neighbors at their home in Pyongyang, North Korea, Thursday, Nov., 19, 2020. Jon Chol Jin/AP Kimchi, a traditional Korean dish of pickled vegetables, accompanies most meals, according to the Associated Press. Last year, Radio Free Asia reported that poor harvests prevented many families from enjoying kimjang, the process of making kimchi that is celebrated annually. North Korean leader Kim Jong Un expanded the education system with a focus on science. Schoolchildren wearing face mask, go to the Kumsong Secondary School No. 2 in the morning in Pyongyang, North Korea, on Wednesday, Nov. 3, 2021. Cha Song Ho/AP Under Kim, the country expanded its education system to support children for 12 years with a special focus on STEM subjects, according to the Institute for Security and Development Policy, a non-profit policy organization based in Stockholm. Citizens visit the zoo to see different breeds of animals from other countries. Story continues A woman and her son see the tortoise at the aquarium of the Central Zoo in Pyongyang, North Korea, on Dec. 3, 2021. Cha Song Ho/AP In the country's capital of Pyongyang, the Central Zoo has drawn spectators for decades, according to the Associated Press. In 2016, the main draw was the "dog pavilion" that showcased dozens of different dog breeds, the outlet reported. The pandemic led to an increase in demands for divorces, reports said. A bride and groom walk after having their wedding photos taken with the background of the Tower of the Juche Idea in Pyongyang, North Korea, Sunday, Nov. 24, 2019. Dita Alangkara/AP There has been an increase in the demand for divorces due to financial pressures amid the coronavirus pandemic, Radio Free Asia and Daily NK reported last year. Divorce is considered "anti-socialist" and an instigator of "social unrest" in North Korea, where people use bribes to get their divorce hearings scheduled, Radio Free Asia reported. The 'songbun' caste system divides people into social classes. Two women sit on a chair with national flags in front of the Grand People's Study House in Pyongyang, on Thursday, Dec. 24, 2020. Cha Song Ho/AP The country uses a social caste system known as "songbun," which divides people into classes as "loyal," "wavering," or "hostile," according to the 2022 Human Rights Watch report. Women and other marginalized groups are often the subjects of gender, sexual, and human rights abuses, according to the report. The country encourages nationalism and veneration of state leaders. People view paintings at the National New Fine Art Talents Exhibition at the Okryu Exhibition Hall in Pyongyang, North Korea, on Tuesday, May 11, 2021. Cha Song Ho/AP The 25 million citizens residing in North Korea are taught from a young age to worship leaders like Kim Jong Un as powerful gods, according to the BBC. Many of them sing his praises publically, but it is difficult to know how deep the sentiment goes when dissidents are threatened with labor camps or death. There are celebrations of military might. Students dance during the celebrations of the 74th founding anniversary of the Korean People's Army in the plaza of the Pyongyang Indoor Stadium in Pyongyang, North Korea, Tuesday, Feb. 8, 2022. Cha Song Ho/AP North Koreans celebrate the founding of the Korean People's Army every year. This year, the national holiday falls on February 8, and there is speculation that Supreme Leader Kim may test a tactical nuclear warhead to celebrate, according to The Daily Beast. Propaganda is a prominent force in the country. A North Korean national flag in North Korea's propaganda village of Gijungdong Chung Sung-Jun/Getty Images Propaganda plays a key role in upholding the country's nationalistic ideals. Directly across the Demilitarized Zone separating North and South Korea, an idyllic village sits on the north side in an attempt to persuade South Koreans to defect, according to the Los Angeles Times. North Koreans refer to it as "Peace Village," while South Koreans call it "Propaganda Village." Leader Kim uses propaganda campaigns to secure support amid struggles. People exit an underpass along a main street of the Central District in Pyongyang, North Korea, on Wednesday, Jan. 6, 2021. Cha Song Ho/AP Leader Kim Jong Un relies on the Workers' Party Congress to help emphasize his independent and militaristic ideals for the country. In March 2022, Kim called for a fresh propaganda campaign to boost national morale amid economic struggles. Officials in Pyongyang restrict foreigners from taking photos in the off seasons when the weather worse and the scenery is devoid of greenery, according to Vox. Most of the country lives in poverty in bleaker, rural areas. Traveling without permission is a capital offense. Commuters walk inside Puhung subway station in Pyongyang, North Korea, Wednesday, Sept. 11, 2019. Dita Alangkara/AP It is illegal to travel internationally or within North Korean provinces without expressed approval, according to Human Rights Watch. Some have defected to South Korea at great personal risk as leaving the country without permission is considered a capital offense, according to the HRW report. Read the original article on Insider Keith Levene, Co-Founder and Guitarist of the Clash and Public Image Ltd, Dies at 65 The qualifying rounds of the 2023 Eurovision song competition are in full swing, but one act that will not be advancing is John Lydon and Public Image Ltd. Yesterday (Feb. 3), PiL took part in a bid to represent Ireland, performing its new song Hawaii on an episode of the countrys Late Late Show. The band was one of six acts and finished in fourth place after an audience and jury vote, meaning it lost out on the chance to move forward in the competition. Representing Ireland instead will be the band Wild Youth. More from Spin: Thirty-seven countries will compete in the storied international song competition, which has helped launch acts like ABBA, Celine Dion, and Maneskin). The winner of the 2023 edition will be announced May 13. Hawaii is an ode to Lydons wife of 43 years, Nora Forster, and her battle with Alzheimers. The song references one of the couples favorite places to visit and has been described as as close as John will ever come to bearing his soul. Lydons decision to participate in 67th annual Eurovision surprised many who know the former Sex Pistols frontman as a punk provocateur. I have a reputation as a musician and insane punk, Im gonna have to blend those two things around a love song, Lydon said in a preview reel ahead of the bands televised performance. See it in full below. Later this year, PiL is slated to release a new album, its first in eight years, after a return to touring in 2022. To see our running list of the top 100 greatest rock stars of all time, click here. The post Keith Levene, Co-Founder and Guitarist of the Clash and Public Image Ltd, Dies at 65 appeared first on SPIN. The hospitality program at the University of New Hampshires Paul College of Business and Economics offers a number of courses, from event planning to finance. But one of the most sought-after courses is available only to its oldest students. Students seeking to study International Wine and Beverage learn about the wide world of wine, beer, and spirits, including their storage, purchase, and serving needs, the universitys website states. But they also must be able to taste the wine and beer and that means being 21 or older. I get a lot of students (who) request they would like to take this course, said Markus Schuckert, a professor and the chairman of the hospitality program. And they cannot take it because they are not 21. In New Hampshire, college students must be at least 21 to even taste wine or beer as part of their hospitality studies. To Schuckert, its a little baffling. Originally from Bavaria, Germany, hes taught at Heilbronn University in Germany and the University of Applied Science of the Grisons in Switzerland, both countries where college students can drink wine and beer legally. And, he said, New Hampshire students are already working around alcohol. They come to me and say, Markus, Im working already in a bar. Im working in a supermarket. Im working in the hospitality industry. Im serving drinks. Im making drinks. Im selling drinks or Im selling beverages, Schuckert told the Senate Commerce Committee Tuesday. This lets say this makes the situation complicated and shows the obvious gap. State Sen. Dan Innis, a Bradford Republican, is hoping to change that this year. What the bill says A bill submitted by Innis, Senate Bill 194, would exempt New Hampshire students who are under 21 but over 18, from criminal prosecution for underage drinking for tasting wine or beer, provided they were doing so as part of a class at an accredited college or university. Students would need to be enrolled at a college or university that offered an associates or bachelors degree in either enology the study of wines or brewing. And under the bill, students under 21 would still not be allowed to swallow the wine or beer; they would only be permitted to taste it, allowing them to sip it and spit it out later. Story continues The brewery scene:Czar's Brewery built 'beer community' in Exeter to survive. New location coming to Dover Beyond students, the bill would also shield colleges and universities from prosecution for serving alcohol to minors, as long as the same conditions were met. Should the bill pass, New Hampshire would follow in the footsteps of California, Florida, Illinois, Missouri, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Washington, and Vermont in creating sip and spit exemptions for underage hospitality students. Vermont passed its law in 1985, partly to aid the New England Culinary Institute in Montpelier, according to Wine Spectator. Why State Sen. Dan Innis says this is important Innis sees the bill as enabling an educational experience that could enhance the usefulness of the hospitality courses in the state. Knowing how to taste, differentiate, and recommend wine is a key part of the hospitality industry, Innis said. Its an important part of the dining experience, and its an important part of many peoples lives, he said. Supporters of the exemption argue wine education is more than just tasting wine; it involves knowing regions, varieties, and histories. They say attempting to teach the differences between wines without letting students taste them has created disadvantages. Innis compared it to a lab. If you were (studying) a hard science, youd go to the lab once a week. Its a similar situation here where you want the students to be able to experience what theyre learning about. Seacoast chef:David Vargas a semifinalist for James Beard Outstanding Chef in America Schuckert likened it to a cake. If you are a chef or if you like baking, and you like creating a cake, but you are not allowed to taste the cake and see how it tastes, you cannot learn from your mistakes, he said. And supporters also pointed to hospitality students who already work behind bars or as servers in restaurants and who cant make informed recommendations to their customers. We allow a lot of latitude to 18- to 20-year-olds in our state when it comes to (serving) alcohol, Innis said. Concerns about the 'sip and spit' bill But the New Hampshire Liquor Commission has concerns. Aiden Moore, legal coordinator for the commission, said the proposed carve-out would make enforcement difficult. Officers with the commission would not be able to attend every tasting on every campus, Moore said, meaning they would have to trust the schools. I think it would be challenging at best to put the responsibility on an instructor to survey the students to make sure that all the alcohol is spit out rather than swallowed, he said. Moore also said the bill provided little opportunity for the commission to take action against the colleges and universities that might be violating the new rules. The bill does not provide campuses a liquor license, so there would be nothing to suspend or abolish if the commission identified problems, he said. If this were potentially abused, how would we address this? he asked. The chances of us ever making a case in the event of something like that are almost nonexistent. Portsmouth to keep outdoor dining in '23What it will look like, what people are saying New Futures, a New Hampshire health care advocacy organization, also voiced opposition. Kate Frey, vice president of advocacy, argued it undercuts the countrys thoughtfully crafted legal limit. The minimum legal drinking age of 21 has saved lives and protected health, Frey said, noting that the limit is supported by the American Academy of Pediatrics and Mothers Against Drunk Driving. Theres no doubt about it as far as evidence-based public policy (goes). Frey raised questions about enforcement as well, and said she worries the Legislature might later move to create carve-outs to other types of alcohol beyond beer and wine. And she said she was unconvinced by the arguments that hospitality students working in restaurants could benefit. While I understand the serving discrepancy, I do think its a little bit different when youre sipping alcohol as opposed to serving it, Frey said. Seacoast NH and Maine restaurants 2022:Who closed, who opened, and more Commerce Committee members had their own questions. Sen. Denise Ricciardi, a Bedford Republican, asked whether students who had participated in wine-tasting lessons could face legal trouble if they later got in an accident after class. Innis replied that he doubted there would be lingering alcohol on a students breath if they spit the wine out and drank water, and argued the blood alcohol levels would be negligible. Sen. Bill Gannon, a Sandown Republican, had a different concern. Here I am, I can just see my kids: Theyre going to swallow the wine, he said. Not in the class they wont, Innis replied. This story was originally published by New Hampshire Bulletin. This article originally appeared on Portsmouth Herald: NH nill would let students under 21 take college wine and beer courses In the 2019-20 school year, when students at Tennessees Vanderbilt University crafted and urged official passage of a statement acknowledging that the school lay on former native lands in Nashville, they thought it would be an easy ask. Acknowledging the Indigenous peoples to whom the land once belonged would be the first, and easiest, step toward measures serving the schools existing Indigenous community, they thought. They were wrong. It always mystified me why there was not more support, said McKalee Steen, a member of Oklahomas Cherokee Nation who as then-co-president of Vanderbilts Indigenous student group helped craft the statement put before the faculty senate. This is one of the easiest things you can do. Instead, that campaign and subsequent attempts by student advocates have repeatedly failed without support from Chancellor Daniel Diermeier, who has effectively squashed those efforts, said junior Annabelle Littlejohn-Bailey, the Indigenous Scholars Organizations current co-president. What is a land acknowledgment? Despite broad student, faculty and community support, students say Diermeier has expressed vague legal concerns about issuing such a statement, but seeing as how no legal harm has come of any other institution to do so, we dont believe this to be a good-faith argument, said sophomore Jayce Pollard, a Vanderbilt student government senator who has advocated for the issue. Vanderbilts chancellors office did not respond to a request for comment. Land acknowledgment statements recognize the peoples who historically populated and cared for the land now occupied by U.S. institutions like Vanderbilt. Such statements have been increasingly adopted by entities nationwide, including the Microsoft Corporation, NAFSA: Association of International Educators and the city council in San Jose, California. Multiple institutions of higher education have also issued official statements, including Syracuse University, the University of North Dakota, Texas Christian University and Kalamazoo College. Story continues What passed in the Vanderbilt student senate? At Vanderbilt, the statement passed in the student senate reads: We collectively acknowledge that Vanderbilt University occupies the ancestral hunting and traditional Lands of the Cherokee, Shawnee, Choctaw, Chickasaw, and Creek peoples. In particular, the University resides on Land ceded on November 8, 1795 in the Treaty of Hopewell. We recognize, support, and advocate for the Indigenous individuals and communities who live here now, and for those forcibly removed from their Homelands. In October, on Indigenous Peoples Day, Vanderbilts student newspaper published an editorial penned by present and past co-presidents of the student organization, whose members conducted a 24-hour protest outside the universitys dining hall calling for action. It is unacceptable that, after nearly four years of tireless advocacy from student leaders, Vanderbilt has still failed to adopt a land acknowledgment, the editorial read. What is Vanderbilts Native history? While they represent less than 1% of Vanderbilts population, Native students have a long history at the school. Among them were Chickasaw and Cherokee cohorts from Oklahoma in the 1880s and 1890s whose parents and grandparents had been forcibly removed under the Indian Removal Act of 1830 from states like Tennessee and made to walk hundreds of miles along what came to be known as the deadly Trail of Tears. Their education there would prove significant, said Daniel Sharfstein, a professor of law and history at Vanderbilt. These were students who came from Indian territory and returned to Indian territory and performed vital services in leadership roles, Sharfstein said. Thats something that Vanderbilt should be proud of." That makes a land acknowledgment anything but abstract, Sharfstein said. In a very direct way, it is part of Vanderbilt history, he said. A land acknowledgment if anything signals our commitment to continuing that tradition. What's next? Littlejohn-Bailey said that while land acknowledgment efforts continue, student leaders have focused on measures they hoped would follow such a statement, including formation of an Indigenous studies program and indigenous community spaces at Vanderbilt. "There are many other things folks can do to ally themselves with indigenous people that don't have to be a statement on a web site," said Wayne Ducheneaux II, executive director of the Native Governance Center. Linda Sealy, a member of the Chickasaw Nation who retired from Vanderbilt as professor emerita of molecular physiology, said she was on a faculty Zoom call in early 2021 in which land acknowledgment was discussed and recalled the chancellors discomfort. Sealy said that while she cant speak to the legal risks of issuing such statements, it is important to realize that there are also risks for not doing so. Amber Silverhorn-Wolfe is a member of Wichita and Affiliated Tribes who has worked with Texas Christian University on its land acknowledgment as a member of the school's Native American advisory circle. The absence of a land acknowledgement raises concerns over the level of university support for Indigenous students, faculty or staff, making it less likely prospective Indigenous members will join your campus, she said. Knowing how Indigenous students have struggled at the school, she said, I no longer encourage Indigenous students to pursue their higher education goals at Vanderbilt. Im hoping that will change." Dig Deeper This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Native land acknowledgment: Vanderbilt leaders rebuff calls for action PHILADELPHIA Democrats on Saturday approved a plan to reorder their 2024 presidential primary calendar in an effort to amplify diverse voices earlier in the presidential selection process. Overruling objections from two states that have traditionally held the first contests, Iowa and New Hampshire, the national party green-lit a schedule that moves South Carolina to the front of the line. The revamped calendar elevates Nevada to the second position alongside New Hampshire and welcomes Georgia and Michigan to the early primary window for the first time. Iowa's caucus, which has traditionally served as the starting-gun for the presidential election, is being displaced. "This calendar does what is long overdue," Democratic National Committee Chair Jaime Harrison told party members before the vote. "It expands the number of voices in the early window, and it elevates diverse communities that are at the core of the Democratic Party." Smart analysis delivered to your inbox: Sign up for the OnPolitics newsletter The changes Democrats approved on Saturday will only apply to 2024. Committee members have vowed to revisit the calendar before the 2028 election. New Hampshire Democrats aggressively fought the shift, arguing ahead of the meeting that they are unable to change a state law that requires them to hold the first primary. They also warned that the changes could harm President Joe Biden's expected reelection effort. Democrats are in the minority in the New Hampshire state legislature, and Republicans in power are unwilling to adjust the law. "Respecting our state law and lifting up diverse voices need not be mutually exclusive," said Joanne Dowdell, a DNC member speaking on behalf of New Hampshire. Iowa also opposed the changes. Rita Hart, the newly-elected chair of the Iowa Democratic Party, said her state faces difficulties in changing the date of its caucus and cannot support a calendar that could weaken Democrats in the state. Story continues The eleventh-hour push was futile. Democrats easily approved the calendar, which Biden personally proposed, in a voice vote during a gathering in Philadelphia. Biden's intervention South Carolina was the first state that Biden won in 2020 after receiving an endorsement from veteran Democratic congressman Jim Clyburn. Clyburn was instrumental in convincing party leaders to add South Carolina to the early window more than a decade ago but emphasized Saturday that making his home state first was Biden's proposal. "I don't get hung up in that," Clyburn said in an interview. "If the president, who's the head of our party, feels a way about something, let's support the president." Biden intervened to solve intra-party squabbling over the matter last year after Democrats postponed their decision on the line up until after the midterms. He pressed members of the Rules and Bylaws Committee of the DNC in a December letter to adopt his recommended 2024 primary calendar. Party officials who sit on the panel endorsed Biden's recommendations and directed South Carolina to hold its contest on Feb. 3, followed by New Hampshire and Nevada on Feb. 6, Georgia on Feb. 13 and Michigan on Feb. 27. Lee Saunders, president of the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees, said in an interview that the DNC panel had been discussing changes to the schedule before Biden weighed in. "Now, clearly, the president had his ideas about what it looked like. But we were committed to having states up front that were representative of our country, representative of people of color, representative of states where the labor movement is strong, where we can bring those folks to the table," Saunders said. "It didn't happen overnight." Biden steered clear of the dispute as he addressed DNC members during a Friday evening speech, where he was ushered on stage to chants of "four more years" and hinted at a reelection announcement. 'Emotional' moment:Inside Biden's rollout of Democratic primary lineup that moves up South Carolina 'No-win position' DNC members were unfazed heading into Saturday's vote by Iowa and New Hampshire's arguments that they should continue to have the right to hold their contests first. States that stand to gain from the calendar changes also refused to back down. Nevada stressed that its coalition helped deliver the U.S. Senate for Democrats in 2022 and reelected the only Latina senator in the nation. Michigan Rep. Debbie Dingell emphasized her state's track record of picking presidents. "The issues that are going to make the difference in the general election are going to be the issues are going to be discussed when they're in a state like Michigan, not when you're in a non diverse state like Iowa," Dingell said in an interview before the vote. 'We're going first no matter what': NH governor rules out idea of moving presidential primary States that go against the DNC risk losing delegates to the national convention, and Biden, should he run for a second term, would be sanctioned if he appears on their primary ballots. "You can have a primary (where) nobody shows up," South Carolina party chair Trav Robertson told USA TODAY. "I mean, if you have a party, and nobody shows up, it's not a hell of a party." Ray Buckley, the chair of New Hampshire's state party, told reporters during a Friday press conference in Philadelphia that the political dynamic in the state leaves Democrats in an "impossible, no-win position." "New Hampshire will still hold the first-in-the nation primary, whether or not the DNC approves of it or not," Buckley said. At a January meeting, the Rules and Bylaws Committee voted to give New Hampshire and Georgia more time to meet the requirements to hold early contests after both states missed an initial deadline. Georgia Democrats are negotiating with Republicans in the state to move up their primary date, but unlike New Hampshire, the only penalty they face for failing to make the change is having a later contest. Harrison said Georgia is "working very hard" on the date change. "They know their state, they know what they've got to do in order to make it happen," he said in an interview. "I have a lot of trust that they will navigate the process." State party chair and Georgia Rep. Nikema Williams has been stressing the economic benefits to moving the primary up in her conversations with Republicans. "We've shown that with investments, Georgia is a true battleground state. And we are ready to meet the moment. Georgia has a history of stepping up in big moments, and we're ready to do it again," Williams told USA TODAY. The Republican National Committee said in a Saturday statement the the decision by Democrats would "cause chaos" and accused them of "abandoning" voters in Iowa and New Hampshire. Scott Brennan, a DNC member from Iowa who sits on the RBC, said the calendar was "dropped" on party members and that "a situation of continued uncertainty" would almost certainly drag on throughout 2023, because of outstanding issues with New Hampshire and Georgia. "We will leave here with absolutely nothing settled," Brennan said. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Dems boost South Carolina, anger N.H., with 2024 primary calendar Two peop have been charged after last month's "cartel-style execution" of a family of six in California, including a young mother and her 10-month-old baby, authorities announced Friday. Angel Uriarte, 35, and Noah Beard, 25, were arrested and charged each with six counts of murder in connection with the Jan. 16 shooting, Tulare County District Attorney Tim Ward said at a Friday news conference. Both are known members of the Norteno gang, Tulare County Sheriff Mike Boudreaux said during the news conference. He said the shooting was likely the result of a conflict between the Nortenos and the Surenos, a rival gang. The suspects have "a long history of gun violence," and are "heavily active in guns, gang violence, gun violence, and narcotics dealings," Boudreaux said. "This was clearly not a random act of violence," he said. "This family was targeted by cold-blooded killers." Still, Boudreaux said "the motive is not exactly clear at this point." CALIFORNIA SHOOTING: Shooter stood over teen mother, baby and shot them 'assassination-style' Tulare County Sheriff Mike Boudreaux talks Tuesday, January 17, 2023 about victims from a shooting early Monday morning left six people dead. 'Operation Nightmare' leads to arrests The arrests were the results of a multiagency effort called "Operation Nightmare," according to the sheriff's department. The effort included searching several California prisons and 10 days of surveillance of the suspects. Ultimately, forensics evidence helped authorities connect the suspects to the shooting. Friday morning, more than 100 law enforcement officials from local and federal agencies executed search warrants at three locations to arrest the suspects. Beard was taken into custody "without incident," Boudreaux said. But Uriarte ran from law enforcement and fired several shots at ATF agents, who fired back, the department said. Uriarte was struck in the torso during the shootout and taken to the hospital, where he underwent surgery and is in stable condition. Mother, baby shot 'assassination-style' Tulare County Sheriff's Office deputies were called to a home in Goshen, a community of about 3,000 people located about 30 miles southeast of Fresno, just before 4 a.m. Jan. 16, according to the office. Story continues Deputies found six people dead at the scene: 52-year-old Eladio Parraz, 19-year-old Marcos Parraz, 49-year-old Jennifer Analla, 72-year-old Rosa Parraz, 16-year-old Alissa Parraz, and her 10-month-old baby, Nycholas. All victims died from gunshot wounds, Boudreaux said. Alissa Parraz tried to flee the attack with her baby, Boudreaux said. In surveillance video showed at the Friday news conference, a young woman can be seen lifting an infant over a fence and climbing over it. Boudreaux said a shooter caught up with her, stood over her and fired multiple rounds into her skull, calling the shooting "assassination-style." Both the mother and infant were found dead on the street outside the home. A gunman also shot Parraz, a 72-year-old grandmother, while she slept in the home, authorities said. Contact Christine Fernando at cfernando@usatoday.com or follow her on Twitter at @christinetfern. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: 2 arrested in Goshen, California shooting that killed 6, including baby Photo Illustration by Luis G. Rendon/The Daily Beast/Reuters Radical anti-abortion activists are taking to the streets Saturday in a national day of protest against the availability of abortion medication at pharmacies across the country. The protests were co-ordinated by Progressive Anti-Abortion Uprising (PAAU), a direct action group that describes itself as comprising nonviolent feminists committed to dismantling the abortion industrial complex. They are calling for anti-abortion supporters to boycott Walgreens, CVS and RiteAid in order to prevent money flowing to Big Abortion. Feb. 4 is just the beginning. There will be more protests and actions to come unless CVS and Walgreens decide to enrich communities rather than support the murder of children to line their pockets, PAAU spokesperson Caroline Smith said in a statement to The Daily Beast. Their vision to turn pharmacies into abortion businesses which will exploit and kill disproportionately low-income people and people of color for profit, will be met with nonviolent resistance at every turn. PAAU said they had protests planned at 94 pharmacies, with around 400 people signed up to attend via their website, and expectations of hundreds more turning out. The group said they expected counter-protesters in bigger cities where actions were being held, like San Francisco, Boston, New York City and Washington D.C. Were currently rallying throughout the state to #StopAbortionRX Lansing, MI pic.twitter.com/Qcebe1iLqJ Protect Life Michigan (@ProtectLifeMI) February 4, 2023 Abortion rights groups have condemned the groups actions, while some reproductive rights activists have dismissed them as ridiculous. Anti-abortion individuals and groups are doing everything in their power to prevent people from being able to access any abortion care nationwide and are promoting an agenda that is not supported by the majority of people in this country, Melissa Fowler, chief program officer at the National Abortion Federation, told The Daily Beast by email. Pharmacies that are expanding access to medication abortion are just the latest target of the well-coordinated, violent anti-abortion movement. Story continues If they wanna embarrass themselves by whining about the abortion-industrial complex outside a random pharmacy thats just funny, the group NYC for Abortion Rights wrote on Instagram. New Yorkers will be out to watch the clown show. Last month, the Food and Drug Administration relaxed its rules, allowing pharmacies to dispense mifepristone, the first of two pills required for a medication abortion. Pharmacy giants CVS and Walgreens immediately announced they would seek certification to sell the medication. (Patients still require a prescription from a health-care provider to access the drug.) Since the fall of Roe, some Republicans and anti-abortion activists have set their sights on eradicating access to abortion medication. At least 18 states have legislation prohibiting the use of telemedicine, instead requiring a patient to be in the physical presence of a clinician to receive a prescription. On Wednesday, Attorneys General in 20 states signed a letter to CVS and Walgreens, warning that red states might take legal action if the pharmacies send the medication by mail. The letter railed against the Biden administrations Office of Legal Counsel, which recently advised USPS employees could not be held criminally liable for delivering mailed abortion medication, regardless of a particular states laws. Over the last few years, PAAU activists have made headlines for their bizarre and grisly antics, some of which have resulted in arrests and jail time. In October 2020, Lauren Handy, a Catholic anti-abortion zealot and PAAUs director of activism, was among ten people who allegedly blockaded and invaded the Washington Surgi-Clinic, a facility providing abortions in Foggy Bottom. Handy pretended to be a patient seeking care, according to a federal indictment, and the rest of the group used furniture, chains, ropes and their bodies to block access to the clinics doors, while live-streaming the protest on Facebook. Anti-abortion activists Lauren handy and Terrisa Bukovinac outside the U.S. Supreme Court in Washington D.C. in 2021. SARAH SILBIGER The group, which included other PAAU activists, were federally indicted for violations of the FACE Act, which protects access to abortion clinics, in May 2022. Handy, who has faced similar charges in other states, was described by the feds as the ring-leader of the conspirators. She has pleaded not guilty, but the case is ongoing. Handy faces up to 10 years in prison. Handy defended her actions in an interview with Catholic news outlet The Pillar in April 2022. If abortion is murder, then our actions need to be reflective of that, she said, When mans laws counter Gods law, we are under no moral or ethical obligation to acknowledge those laws. In November, 2021, Handy, along with six other PAAU activists, including the groups executive director Terrisa Bukovinac, invaded the Alexandria Womens Health Clinic in Alexandria, Virginia. Handy was later sentenced to 30 days in jail for trespassing, while other activists, including PAAUs director of communications Kristin Turner, served shorter sentences. Anti-abortion activist Terrisa Bukovinac outside the U.S. Supreme Court in Washington, D.C. in June 2022. EVELYN HOCKSTEIN In a particularly gruesome incident, police removed five fetuses from Handys Washington D.C. apartment in March 2022. Handy claimed that she and Bukovinac had been given a total of 115 fetal remains by the driver of a Curtis Bay Medical Waste Services truck outside Washington Surgi-Clinic. The waste company vigorously denied their story. At no time did the Curtis Bay employee hand over any of these packages to the PAAU or other third party, and any allegations made otherwise are false, the company said. Handy held a press conference, in which she claimed to have had a Catholic priest bless and bury 110 of the smaller fetuses, which she said appeared to have been aborted early in pregnancy. PAAU claimed the five fetuses Handy held onto were illegal late-term abortions. However, Metropolitan Police Department executive assistant chief Ashan Benedict said the fetuses had been aborted in accordance with D.C. laws. There doesnt seem to be anything criminal in nature about that, Benedict said, except for how they got into this house. PAAU have gravitated towards the kinds of extreme tactics used by previous anti-abortion militants, such as groups like Operation Rescue, founded in 1986 by Randal Terry. Activists with Operation Rescue blockaded abortion clinics and harassed medical providers. When an abortion provider, Dr George Tiller, was murdered by an anti-abortion extremist in 2009, Terry defended the killing, saying, George Tiller was a mass-murderer. Terry, who ran Operation Rescue until 1991, is now a member of PAAU. Ironically, calling yourself Progressive Anti-Abortion Uprising seems anathema to being progressive, if youre deciding that youre going to be committed to ensuring that body autonomy is not going to be available, says Lizz Winstead, a comedian and founder of the abortion rights group Abortion Access Front. The most unhinged people in the anti abortion movement, are protesting outside pharmacys who have committed to dispense abortion pills AND WORSE, the media portraying them as peaceful. They are literal FETUS THIEVES and terrorize clinics. DO YA RESEARCH!https://t.co/Hs6W9vCFoP pic.twitter.com/kqhADj0T0o Abortion Access Front (@AbortionFront) January 30, 2023 Winstead, who co-created The Daily Show before focusing on reproductive rights, says that PAAUs actions are hypocritical and dangerous. She points out that theyve shared a platform with Senator Ted Cruz, who Winstead says has actively fought to destroy programs for children and families. Their latest lie is that people are dying from abortion medication. Its simply not true, Winstead says. That only does harm to people seeking the care, and people providing the care. Medication abortion now accounts for around half of all abortions carried out in the United States, according to data collected by the Guttmacher Institute. The scientific consensus, based on studies conducted over the last twenty years, is that abortion medication is safe and effective for ending early pregnancy. The same drugs used for medication abortion, including mifepristone, are also used to treat miscarriage. Tensions have been high between anti-abortion activist groups and reproductive rights advocates since the fall of Roe. Violence against abortion clinic escorts and attacks on clinics are on the rise, reporting by The Daily Beast has found. Last week, an Illinois man was charged after allegedly setting fire to a Planned Parenthood center in Peoria on Jan. 15. Tyler W. Massengill, 32, told investigators his former girlfriend had an abortion at the clinic and that if his actions caused a little delay in the clinics ability to operate and serve patients, then it would have been all worth it, according to the Peoria Journal Star. Last month, the FBI offered a $25,000 reward for information about three arson attacks against anti-abortion groups and centers in Oregon. Despite the uptick in violence, Winstead says anti-abortion activists wont deter reproductive rights organizers. Todays protests, she says, are an attempt to distract from the serious legal charges some activists at PAAU are facing. [PAAU] are trying to assert themselves as a smokescreen for the trouble they're about to get in, Winstead says. We are not afraid of them. Read more at The Daily Beast. Get the Daily Beast's biggest scoops and scandals delivered right to your inbox. Sign up now. Stay informed and gain unlimited access to the Daily Beast's unmatched reporting. Subscribe now. ADDIS ABABA, Feb. 4 (Xinhua) -- Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed on Friday met with leaders of the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF) for the first time since the two-year conflict ended late last year with a peace deal, official media reported. The meeting was held three months after the government and the rebel group signed a permanent cessation of hostilities deal in November to end the conflict, restore law and order, and resume services and the delivery of humanitarian supplies. According to the state-run Ethiopian News Agency, Ahmed met members of the peace agreement implementation coordination committee, which includes senior TPLF leaders, in the country's southwestern Dawuro Zone. During the talks, the two sides evaluated the implementation of the peace agreement and discussed issues requiring further attention, it was reported. The second most populous nation in Africa has seen a devastating conflict between government-allied troops and forces loyal to the TPLF since November 2020, which left thousands dead and millions in urgent need of humanitarian assistance. A global liquor company based in the Bluegrass is getting sued by an Illinois resident who claims they've misled customers with gas-station mini bottles that don't actually contain whiskey. The Sazerac Company has its main office in Louisville, owns Buffalo Trace distillery and bourbon and produces Fireball, a well-known brand of cinnamon whiskey. Sazerac has been accused of mislabeling its bottles by Anna Marquez, a resident of Cook County, Illinois. A class-action lawsuit filed against the company asserts that labels on 99-cent bottles sold at gas stations mislead "consumers into believing it is or contains distilled spirits." Over the last few years, residents in Illinois noticed that the bottles were made more available in supermarkets and gas stations than in previous years, the suit said. "Liquor stores reported a decline in sales of Fireball cinnamon whisky, confirmed by their customers who told them they preferred to purchase it for lower prices elsewhere." More:Louisville sweet shop destroyed in a fire is coming back and taking business on the road The suit, filed on Jan. 7, said the bottles in those supermarkets and gas stations weren't "'whisky at all." Instead, the liquor was simply labeled "Fireball Cinnamon" and stated that it contained "natural whisky and other flavors" and caramel color. Customers mistaking the bottles for ones that actually contained the spirit was "'an easy mistake to make, and one intended by the manufacturer,'" the suit claimed. Labels for "Fireball Cinnamon" and "Fireball Cinnamon Whisky" appeared nearly identical, the suit said. What consumers were getting was actually just a malt beverage with "natural whisky" flavors "sold at a premium price," which they might not realize. Malt beverages, as defined by the lawsuit, are "based on fermentation to create a neutral base to which flavors and colors may be added." Story continues JCPS middle school behavior: How many referrals were issued at your student's school? The lawsuit seeks judgment for consumers in Illinois, among several other states, and asks for "monetary, statutory and/or punitive damages" as well as "costs and expenses, including reasonable attorney and expert fees." Contact reporter Rae Johnson at RNJohnson@gannett.com. Follow them on Twitter at @RaeJ_33. This article originally appeared on Louisville Courier Journal: Fireball Cinnamon maker, based in Louisville, is sued over labels This is part one of a two-part series about two refugee families living in Iowa City. It was late at night at the Eastern Iowa Airport in Cedar Rapids when Dymtro, Artem and Tetiana Kolomiiets finally got off their plane some 40 minutes after they landed and arrived in Iowa for the first time on Sept. 19. They were bundled up in winter jackets, fit for the Finland autumn they'd left behind but less so for the September warmth of last year. There to greet them were people theyd never met in person, people whod decided they wanted to help three Ukrainian strangers whod fled their home as a result of Russia invading Ukraine last year in February. The delay made one of those greeters, Sarah Outterson-Murphy, anxious. But the flight attendants and the pilot who had already exited the plane assured her that there were three people who spoke no English on the flight, and one of them uses a wheelchair. That fit the description of the family of three Outterson-Murphy had emailed and chatted with over Zoom, a family who, like millions of others, were in search of a new home because of the Russia-Ukraine war. The Kolomiiets had arrived. Exhausted, but they'd arrived. Four months later, what began as a desire to help has transformed the lives of the Kolomiiets and the Iowa City community members whove invested time, and resources, to assist one family. The Kolomiiets shared their story with the Press-Citizen with the help of a translation app and a University of Iowa student translator. Monica Miller, second from right, helps teach English to Tetiana Kolomiiets, her sons Artem, left, and Dymtro in Iowa City. Leaving their home in Ukraine Dymtro Kolomiiets worked as a truck driver in Europe, visiting nearly every country except for Portugal and England. When the Russian invasion of Ukraine began, he was separated from his brother, Artem, and mother, Tetiana, who lived in Mariupol, Ukraine. They lost contact. More than a month-and-a-half of war passed before they were in communication with the assistance of friends, he said. In a document written by Artem and shared with the Press-Citizen, they began speaking over the phone to discuss their evacuation plan. Story continues Dymtro worked constantly, but his thoughts were with his family. It was hard to sleep, he said. Artem and Tetiana spent 109 days under near-constant shelling living in a nine-story building. The elevators were turned off. Artem, who uses a wheelchair, couldnt leave the apartment to go to a bomb shelter. Artem, in his document, recalled how they spread food and water around their apartment to avoid losing access to their food should any part of their apartment collapse. They rationed water. It was cold in Mariupol, and so was their apartment. Artem wrote that if not for the shells, the cold would surely have killed them. In May of last year, Ukrainian fighters in Mariupol surrendered, and Russia gained total control of the city, the Associated Press reported. The devastation inflicted on this city included Russia bombing a maternity hospital and a bombing of the Donetsk Academic Regional Drama Theater that killed close to 600 people, the Associated Press reported. When you are in this apartment during the war, when you cant leave it, and when aerial bombs hit your home and, luckily, do not explode, when your home is fired by tanks, it is difficult to describe by words how much one wants to leave ones home, ones city, ones place, Artem said. The Kolomiiets reunited at the border of Poland and escaped to Finland, where church friends were able to help them. They lived there for a month-and-a-half to two months before their journey would take them to Iowa. It is always difficult to leave your home, Dymtro said. You leave familiar places, from everything that surrounded you at home, and you practically have nothing. You need to find everything again, including such small things as spoons, forks, dishes, bedding. Clay Monserud, Artem Kolomiiets, Tetiana Kolomiiets, Adele Monserud and Dymtro Kolomiiets walk through the Coral Ridge Mall in Coralville, Iowa. The Monserud's help the Kolomiiets family with errands since they arrived in the United States through the Uniting for Ukraine program. Two Iowa City community members decide to help Some 5,000 miles away, Outterson-Murphy learned in the news that Ukrainians would be allowed to come to America if they had sponsors. The English teacher at Jefferson High School in Cedar Rapids and her husband, Bobby, sponsored the Kolomiiets through the Uniting for Ukraine program, in which qualifying individuals in America can apply to sponsor a Ukrainian citizen, or their non-Ukrainian immediate family member, to live in America for a two-year period of parole. I thought there's not a ton I can do in my life that directly makes immigration possible for someone and this seemed like a unique opportunity to make a difference for a specific family, she said. More:Iowa City business seeks support for its Ukrainian farm team: Theyre what make it all possible As of Jan. 31, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services has received 207,000 requests from individuals agreeing to support Ukrainian citizens or their immediate family members as part of the Uniting for Ukraine program, according to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. Approximately 110,000 individuals have arrived in America through the Uniting for Ukraine program. According to DHS, 148,000 Ukrainians have been processed into America outside of the Uniting for Ukraine program. The Outterson-Murphys actually sponsored two families, one who resettled in Chicago. Families like them, Outterson-Murphy said, are an example of how there are many families who dont need a lot of support. All they need is someone to sign some paperwork. The Cedar Rapids educator, who is involved in the Gloria Dei Lutheran Church in Iowa City, has been long invested in activism efforts, sometimes through the church, other times not. But she went to her church with her plan and found support through people including Pastor Sarah Goettsch, who had, at an earlier point, been tasked to put together a social justice committee that included the Outterson-Murphys. Goettsch acted as a liaison, informing the congregation of what was going on. When they learned theyd be supporting the Kolomiiets, the congregation raised $25,000 in two weeks to help with the costs involved with a family of three arriving in America, she said. She also coordinated to have Vladimir Titarenko, whose family came to North Liberty from Ukraine a few years ago, join them at the airport for the Kolomiiets arrival and act as a translator, able to speak to them in a way that made them feel assuaged and comforted after an exhausting trip. He joined them again when the Kolomiiets shared their story to the Gloria Dei Lutheran Church congregation. Social Security Numbers, health insurance, work permits, vaccinations, biometric appointments the latter proving to be especially irksome, Outterson-Murphy recalled were all things that required attention. Just a lot of crazy bureaucracy, as Outterson-Murphy put it. I have a couple of graduate degrees. My husband has a couple of graduate degrees. (Church member) Marge worked in the medical system. We all speak fluent English and we are struggling with it how is a refugee who doesnt speak much English and doesn't know what's going on, how are they supposed to do any of this? she said. Life in Iowa City Tiny pieces of paper are taped on to the walls of the Kolomiiets' home with words in English. Living room. Kitchen. They all study English. During one tutoring session in the afternoon at their home in early January, the three practiced words used to describe family. "Aunt." "Grandfather." "Sister." Their home was decorated for the holidays. A small Christmas tree sat on top of a shelf adorned with blue and purple bulbs. Three stockings, each with their own name on it, hung on a lamp. Like other Ukrainians, they celebrate Christmas on Jan. 7 per the Julian calendar. Over the past four months in Iowa City, the Kolomiiets visited the University of Iowa Stanley Museum of Art, saw a concert at the Voxman Music Building and had dinners at congregation members homes. A few weeks ago, the Kolomiiets took their first trip to the Coral Ridge Mall to do some shopping, joined by Adele and Clay Monserud, retirees who help the Kolomiiets for things like daytime errands. They spent the afternoon at stores like Target, JCPenney and Scheels, wandering the aisles with ease and using a translation app to chat with the Monseruds every so often. Clay Monserud, left, uses the SayHi translation app to talk with Artem Kolomiiets in Coralville, Iowa. Adele Monserud recalled their first interaction. Shed recently gotten a new bike. Dymtro, who didnt have his license yet, was eager for a bike to provide additional transportation, and independence. So, she gave him her old bike. Her husband, who was a truck driver for years, took Dymtro to the DMV for his written test and later his driving test, which he passed. Dymtro is working toward getting his commercial driver's license, as well, and he's enrolled in English classes at Kirkwood Community College. They go to church frequently. Artem was a secretary at a church in Mariupol. One member translates Goettschs sermons into Russian every week so they can follow along in the service. Artems fiance will arrive in February. The Kolomiiets want to stay in America, Dymtro said. After all, there is nothing to return to in their once beautiful city. After experiencing war, Dymtro said, you dont pay attention to small problems. And there's no difficulties for them living in Iowa City. Dymtro Kolomiiets, right, and his brother Artem get ready to go for a drive in Iowa City, Iowa. An impactful experience for all Resilient is one word Monserud used to describe the Kolomiiets, saying they feel blessed to have them in Iowa City. Goettsch described how there have been times she has probed deeper about their lives, their losses and what theyve witnessed. The fact that they can turn around and listen to her gripe about a headache, she said, exemplifies their willingness to laugh about life despite what theyve been through. Outterson-Murphy echoed their ability to laugh. It's been quite a bit of work, but I'm really grateful for the Kolomiiets, she said. They're just wonderful people, and I feel really lucky to have met them. In mid-January, the Department of State in collaboration with the Department of Health and Human Services announced Welcome Corps, a new program where American citizens or permanent residents can privately sponsor the resettlement of refugees from around the world. The social justice committee at the Gloria Dei Lutheran Church have put together a document with resources, recommendations and insights people can view if theyre interested in sponsoring a family. Goettsch said its important to acknowledge the Kolomiiets are one of many families whove settled in Iowa City with stories not entirely dissimilar. They would want that to be stated, because they're humble and they know that there are people from Congo and people from South America and people from all around the globe that are also here that have been through similar things, she said. And that if the Iowa City community can be continually encouraged to reach across language barriers and context barriers and cultural barriers, that its so rewarding and so necessary in regards to being human, I think that would be a final thing I would want to exhort the community in. Paris Barraza covers entertainment, lifestyle and arts at the Iowa City Press-Citizen. Reach her at PBarraza@press-citizen.com or 319-519-9731. Follow her on Twitter @ParisBarraza. This article originally appeared on Iowa City Press-Citizen: How Iowa City community members helped a family of 3 from Ukraine Your sweetheart will need two hands to eat these...and then to applaud you for your excellent taste. (Photo: QVC) Looking for a fun way to make Valentine's Day special for your sweetheart? QVC is having a mega-sale on Kansas City Steaks and burgers to make the most romantic day of the year memorable. Right now, a box of 16 4.5-oz steakburgers (which includes a seasoning package and recipe book) from Kansas City Steaks normally retails for $74, but you can get it for just $55 with free shipping right now at QVC! Choose five interest-free Easy Pays of $14, if you'd like. And if you're a first-time QVC shopper, use code NEW to get an extra $15 off. Want to score an even bigger deal? A box of 32 steakburgers will run you $107, down from $119. QVC Kansas City (16) 4.5-oz Steakburgers $55 $74 Save $19 This box includes 16 4.5-oz steakburgers, 1-oz Kansas City Steak Company seasoning packet, and Kansas City Steak Company book. Shipped raw, you get two steakburgers per vacuum-sealed package packed with dry ice. The box arrives within two days of shipment. $55 at QVC Founded in 1932 as a small, family-owned butcher shop, Kansas City Steaks has become a household brand, beloved for its rich, flavorful cuts of meat from premier stockyards in Kansas. Trust us: These gourmet burgers aren't what your neighbors are serving they'll have your guests begging for more. These patties won't fall short. Kansas City Steakburgers are made with corn-fed premium ground beef and can be prepared either frozen or thawed. Slap some cheese and freshly sliced tomatoes and lettuce on a toasted bun and you've got a succulent taste sensation you won't soon forget. And, at under $4 a burger, your wallet won't mind, either. It's a "big-time burger" that maintains its size, says one reviewer on the Kansas City Steaks site. "Definitely a two-handed burger. Big and tasty with little shrinkage and loaded with flavor." Other reviewers had nothing but great things to say about these unbelievable burgers: "Steak and burger what's not to like?" "Better than Omaha!" another raved. Frankly, we're speechless, but this is a caption and we have to say something so just...look at this. (Photo: QVC) There's no question these burgers will be a hit at your next gathering and you can't beat the price. So tuck into this deal of $55 with free shipping and handling before it's too late and you're stuck eating bland supermarket burgers at your next cookout. Still not convinced: Have a look at QVC's in-house video. But be prepared: You're about to get very, very hungry. Marlon Brando fans now have the chance to own a rather interesting item from his private life. In its latest listing, Boston-based RR Auctions has put the stars handwritten breakup letter to a former girlfriend up for grabs. The rare note, expected to fetch upwards of $15,000 at current estimates, indicates the end of a romantic relationship between the Last Tango In Paris actor and French actress Solange Podell in the late 1940s. The three 5 x 8 pages, containing a litany of minor grammatical errors written in pencil by the A-lister, details Brandos attempt to end the twos courtship amicably with the ever-popular Its not you, its me approach. As of writing, the top bid for the stationary sits at $3,390. More from Robb Report Please accept this letter with an open heart as it is written with forthright sincerity, part of the letter reads. Im sorry I could not have tried harder to be less self-indulgent and, there with, a little more compatible. My intuitions were flawlessly scrupulous, but my emotions, unfortunately, were unstable. Nevertheless, I will remember you with fondness, regard, and appreciation. When we meet in France (perhaps in October), I trust my behavior will be a trifle more adult. Brando then signs off with warmest Marlon and the additional footnote: Please give my kind acknowledgments to your mother, if shell accept them. The actor writes about ending this relationship with the French actress amicably. The two actors met after Podell, a rising Broadway star, was invited backstage during the 1947 production of A Streetcar Named Desire to meet a youngand relatively unknownBrando, who playing Stanley Kowalski opposite Jessica Tandys Blanche DuBois. The cabaret dancer, who also had minor movie roles in France, moved to New York City following a short stint in Hollywood, after an American talent scout encouraged her to take a leap of faith into the creative industry. Story continues After the duo parted ways, Brando would go on to become a Hollywood legend, earning two Best Actor Oscars for his work in the iconic films On the Waterfront and The Godfather. Podell, meanwhile, left acting after some success to focus on photography, studying under industry legend Richard Avedon to hone on her craft before eventually settling down in Monaco; there, she became the Principality Tourism Offices official photographer. Interested in this piece of Brandos romantic history? Head to RR Auctions website to a bid now through February 8 for a chance to own the delicate parchment. Sign up for Robb Report's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Click here to read the full article. Getty Images Cleaning our washing machines and dryers may be the last chores we want to take on after tackling multiple loads of laundry. However, keeping appliances in tip-top shape is the secret to securing the ultimate protection for your clothing, linens, and other washable household items while ensuring they retain their quality for as long as possible. One of the most important elements of your laundry-related appliances to keep clean is the dryer vent. As Dryer Vent HQ says its responsible for how effective your dryer is, and theres nothing worse than having to run yet another dry cycle when youre trying to get through multiple loads. Plus, slacking off on this chore is actually a fire hazard. The U.S. Fire Administration says that nearly 3,000 dryer fires are reported in this country each year, with failure to clean the dryer often enough as the leading cause of these incidents. The organization notes that these fires mostly occur in the winter months, so its especially important to stay on your dryer cleaning game during this time of year. How Often Should You Clean Your Dryer Vent? Window Ninjas, a home care service based in Richmond, Virginia, advises having your dryer vent cleaned every year, though the company recommends having it cleaned more often, about every 6-9 months, if you have a large family or multiple pets. Some signs you may need to clean your dryer vent are: your laundry is taking longer than usual to dry, the dryer itself is becoming hotter to the touch than normal, and a burning smell coming from your laundry area, according to The Home Depot. How To Clean Your Dryer Vent It may be worth seeking professional help for this task to ensure that your dryer vent has been properly cleaned to promote a healthy, safe home and efficient dryer. However, you can take on this chore yourself if you know how to do so properly. Cleaning your dryer vent is a relatively simple process, starting with inspecting the ventand the area around itto ensure its not damaged, restricted, or being blocked by animal nests, according to U.S. Fire Administration. From there, The Home Depot recommends unplugging the dryer and disconnecting the dryer duct. Those with gas dryers will need to also turn off the supply valve until the cleaning process is over. Story continues Afterwards, youll want to use a vacuum cleaner or shop vacuum to clear any lint and other debris out of the vent hole at the back of the dryer. If your dryer vent is too long to remove debris with a vacuum, you can also use a dryer vent cleaning kit equipped with a special brush that offers a more thorough clean. Once youve finished cleaning, its time to reconnect the dryer vent duct, push the dryer back in place, and either replug the dryer in or turn on the gas safety valve. Youll want to test out your dryers efficiency and cleanliness by running it on the fluff or air dry setting for 15-20 minutes before tossing in a load of freshly washed laundry. There are several steps you can take to help promote the cleanliness of your dryer in between vent cleanings. Whirlpool says that lint build-up is common for those who overload their washers, wash clothes on a longer or higher water setting than needed, and neglect to clean their lint traps after each load of laundry. Avoiding these common mistakes will help ensure the efficiency and safety of your appliance for as long as possible. For more Southern Living news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter! Read the original article on Southern Living. WASHINGTON As her colleagues gathered on the House floor Thursday to decide her fate, Ilhan Omar could have offered one more apology. Instead, the Minnesota Democrat spoke to what she saw as a larger injustice: the silencing of a Black Muslim woman. Herself. The Republican-controlled House voted along party lines to remove Omar from the House Foreign Affairs Committee over comments she has made about Israel that members of both parties viewed as antisemitic. "Is anyone surprised that I am somehow deemed unworthy to speak about American foreign policy? Or that they see me as a powerful voice that needs to be silenced?" Omar said on the House floor moments before the 218-211 vote. "Frankly, It is expected. Because when you push power, power pushes back." Stay in the conversation on politics: Sign up for the OnPolitics newsletter 'I am an American' "I am an American," Omar, who had been on Foreign Affairs since she arrived on Capitol Hill in 2019, said in her floor speech. "An American who was sent here by her constituents to represent them in Congress," she said. "A refugee who survived the horrors of a civil war. Someone who spent her childhood in a refugee camp. Someone who knows what it means to have a shot at a better life here in the United States. And someone who believes in the American dream and the American possibility and the promise and the ability to participate in the democratic process." Even in a chamber that has grown increasingly partisan, the debate leading up to the vote on Omar felt visceral. Republicans accused her of being antisemitic and anti-American undeserving of a seat on the House committee that helps shape foreign policy. Democrats accused Republicans of a racist double standard for not sounding such outrage when GOP officials make similarly offensive comments Omar, who was born in Somalia before fleeing at age 8 during its civil war, said her removal from the Foreign Affairs panel would not muzzle her. Story continues Related: GOP removes Rep. Ilhan Omar from Foreign Affairs Committee, citing her comments on Israel "I will continue to speak up, because representation matters," she said. "I will continue to speak up for families around the world who are seeking justice whether they are displaced in refugee camps or they are hiding under their beds somewhere like I was waiting for the bullets to stop." McCarthy vowed for months to remove Omar Omar faced backlash from members of both parties for controversial statements she made in 2019 and 2021. Republicans had threatened to punish her but were unable to do so in a chamber run by Democrats. Omar suggested in the 2019 remark that Israel demands "allegiance" from American lawmakers, adding that "a lot of our Jewish colleagues, a lot of our constituents, a lot of our allies, (think) that everything we say about Israel (is) anti-Semitic because we are Muslim." Her comments in 2021 equating Israel and the U.S. with the terrorist group Hamas and the Taliban provoked anger from some of her own Democratic colleagues. Rep. Ilhan Omar, D-Minn., leaves her office at the Longworth House Office Building on Feb. 2, 2023 in Washington, DC. Critics condemned Omar's comments prompting her to apologize. The American Israel Public Affairs Committee said in a statement that "the charge of dual loyalty not only raises the ominous specter of classic anti-Semitism, but it is also deeply insulting to the millions upon millions of patriotic Americans, Jewish and non-Jewish, who stand by our democratic ally, Israel." GOP lawmakers were outraged further when Democrats voted in 2021 to strip Marjorie Taylor Greene, R-Ga., and Paul Gosar, R-Ariz., for menacing social media posts. But it wasn't until Republicans recaptured the House in last fall's election that they were able to act against Omar. House Speaker Kevin McCarthy vowed last year, before the 2022 midterm elections, to remove Omar as well as block California Democrats Reps. Adam Schiff and Eric Swalwell from their Intelligence Committee posts. Swalwell on House committee assignments: Speaker McCarthy engaged in 'weaponizing' of 'political abuse' But unlike Schiff and Swalwell, Omar has been the target of a variety of racist and Islamophobic attacks since her election to the House in 2018, including by then- President Donald Trump, who encouraged supporters to chant "send her back" during a 2019 rally. What others said about Omar being ousted from the Foreign Affairs Committee Edward Ahmed Mitchell, the Council on American-Islamic Relations national deputy director, blames Omar's treatment on an overarching hostility toward pro-Palestinian positions: "There is a longstanding and deep-seated issue of bigotry that has been directed at her, and this is just the latest manifestation of it." Tennessee GOP Rep. David Kustoff on the floor of the House: "No doubt, words have meaning. When a member of Congress stands in this chamber, or at home, or in their district, the nation and the world pays attention to what they say and how they say it." Tabitha Bonilla, an associate professor of policy research at Northwestern University: "I think there are important consequences to her ability to represent her constituents. This is silencing her voice in her committee work and I think particularly having a Somali refugee on a foreign affairs committee is important because she's bringing to the table a perspective that other people are not going to be bringing." The Republican Jewish Coalition applauded the removal of Omar, saying in a statement that the Democratic leadership failed to hold her "accountable for her vile, hateful, and dangerous anti-Israel and anti-Semitic rhetoric." Contributing Rachel Looker This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Rep. Ilhan Omar gives fiery speech before ousted from Foreign Affairs PIERRE A bill that would push the state's social service system to actively reunite Native American children and their families in a timely manner, following abuse and neglect case proceedings, passed out of committee Friday morning 9-3. The bill would further codify into state law current federal law when it comes to the reunification of Native American families. Rep. Peri Pourier, D-Pine Ridge, said at the moment in state law, the Department of Social Services is directed to act with due regard to the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA). The S.D. House of Representatives gathers on the first day of legislative session on Tuesday, January 10, 2023, at the South Dakota State Capitol in Pierre. ICWA, established by the federal government in 1978, allows tribes to place Native American children with family members when the child is involved in abuse and neglect proceedings, or to be placed with Native American family members in adoption cases. It is also the topic of a current United Supreme Court case, Haaland v. Brackeen, when it comes to discrimination and race-based adoptions. Pourier said the bill did not reference ICWA when DSS officials spoke against the proposed legislation. "We could go on and on and on about federal Indian policy and the ramifications that had on our families," Pourier said. "But we're not. We're talking about active efforts and preventing a child from being taken from the family home. We would like the state to provide active efforts in preventing termination of rights." In South Dakota, 62% of children in foster care were Native American in 2021, according to the National Indian Child Welfare Association. However, 13.7% of Native American children make up the state's population. Alaska and North Dakota ranked two and three in disproportionate numbers of Native American children in state foster care. Jessica Morson spoke in favor of the bill and serves as the chairwoman of the South Dakota coalition for the Indian Child Welfare Act. She said in her work as a social worker for the Flandreau Santee Sioux Tribe, she sees the lack of an active effort when Native American families not living on the reservation are going through abuse and neglect cases. Story continues More:Gov. Kristi Noem, legislators announce $15M effort for Stronger Families scholarship fund "Right now in the state of South Dakota, they're [DSS] practicing putting that child in foster care before they look for family," she said, adding active efforts can look like DSS calling the tribes for a family tree, so the child can be placed with a grandmother or grandfather. "This process is hurting families, and it's hurting children at the end of the day," she said. The committee also heard emotional testimony from Myrna Thompson, the former Sisseton-Wahpeton Tribal Secretary, who spoke about her two nephews taken in the early '70s, before ICWA was enacted, and adopted by non-Native American families. She remembered the day her second nephew, 10 months old at the time, was taken by social services. "He was taken, because of poverty," she said and continued with her story as Pourier wiped tears from her eye. More:Push to limit access to gender-affirming care for youth passes in South Dakota House Thompson said it was the duty of the state and social services to return Native American children quickly to their families. "We are asking for accountability and stronger efforts for something that should have been occurring all along," she said. "My personal experience and my belief is that Indian families have no reason to suffer heartache and the loss of their children to foster care, adoption or termination of parental rights. We can all do better to reunite families." The bill now heads to the House floor for a vote, and if successful, will go to the Senate. If successful in a Senate committee and then Senate, the bill will head to Gov. Kristi Noem's desk for final approval. This article originally appeared on Sioux Falls Argus Leader: Bill to actively reunify Native American families after abuse cases moves forward The nights first stars have started to glow ever so faintly in the big cloud-less Western sky above. I twist my neck to take them in from the saddle of my horse. Just ahead of me, Creed Garnick removes his dusty cowboy hat and reclines, resting his head on his horses back and making the saddle seem like the most comfortable lounge chair. The lifelong horseman and owner of 3 Spear Ranch, a 1,200-acre property in Dubois, Wyo., doesnt need to watch where hes going. He and his chestnut mare, X, ride as one. In the distance, the boom of an announcers voice and an eruption of whoops and cheers break the silence and interrupt Garnicks stargazing reverie. He sits up, replaces his hat and gives X a kick as he turns to me and shouts, Gotta pick up the pace! Rodeos started! And suddenly were loping toward the arena lights. More from Robb Report Ive stayed at dude ranches that shuttle guests to the town rodeo and some that host their own private event where staff show off their calf-roping and barrel-racing skills. Those experiences have always made me feel like a city-slicker spectator. But arriving at the Dubois Friday-night rodeo on horseback alongside Garnick, a former rodeo star who hails from one of the American Wests oldest ranching families, I hold myself less like an outsider and almost like a local. The bronc- and bull-riding events provide plenty of thrills, but the adrenaline rush of the evening is the 90-minute trip home beneath a sky so clear that the Milky Way is in full view. The journey, it turns out, is the main event, the experience guests will keep forever lodged in their memory. There are low-frills dude ranches run by families with deep knowledge of horses and the land alike, and there are luxury ranches with speakeasy-style cocktail bars, bowling alleys and mechanical bullsthe latter category often initiated by gentleman cowboys who know more about finance and French wines than saddling a horse and rearing steer. Garnicks 3 Spear is the rare lodge that straddles both worlds. Story continues With just eight guest cabinsmost dating back to the 1800s, all of which have been or will be refurbished by Garnick and his childhood friend and general manager, Chandler Mintonthe ranch offers a highly individualized experience. Securing a stay isnt as simple as reserving a cabin online; Minton has personally vetted every booking with a follow-up phone call since the ranch welcomed its first guests in the summer of 2021. Were not for everyone, he explains. People see the word luxury and assume theyll get the Aman. Creed Garnick At 3 Spear, luxury isnt defined by thread counts or designer toiletries. Its the opportunity to step out of your comfort zone for a few days and be immersed in a lifestyle youve always fantasized about, while also having a hospitality team intuit your every desire, from a post-ride massage to a pre-dinner family steer-roping tutorial. Before each arrival, we get to know the guests and then plan an extraordinary stay full of surprises, Minton says. Shoshone Cabin, one of the propertys oldest structures Minton and Garnick, both 35, know a thing or two about capturing the drama of the American Westand impressing an audience. Minton honed his hospitality skills at some of the countrys top hotels, including Amangani in Jackson Hole, Wyo., and the Lodge at Blue Sky, an Auberge Resorts Collection property in Park City, Utah. Garnick, meanwhile, spent years performing on New York City stages. Reunited at 3 Spear, theyre a rare duo delivering a hard-to-come-by combination: an authentic ranch vacation with five-star attention to detail. A few days earlier, Garnick picks me up at the Jackson Hole airport. His sunflower-yellow Toyota FJ40 Land Cruiser stands out in a sea of black SUVs. On the 90-minute drive to the ranch, he recounts his eccentric upbringing. One of eight kids, he was raised in the sleepy town of Dubois (pronounced DOO-boyz) by a family passionate about both ranching and theater. He inherited the 1970s-era Clint Eastwood good looks of his paternal grandfather, Bill Garnick, one of the original Marlboro Man actors, and the gumption of his parents, Vicki and Cameron Garnick, who met at Sundance Mountain Resort in 1976, when both were performing in a regional production of West Side Story, with Cameron playing Riff and Vicki cast as Riffs girlfriend, Velma. They went on to run some of Duboiss most popular guest ranches as well as the historic Jackson Hole PlayhouseVicki bootlegged booze to pay for the lease in 1980 and now owns and still oversees the theater. As a kid, Garnick traveled across Central Asia performing alongside his father in Wild West shows. When a bull-riding injury ended his competitive-rodeo aspirations, he turned his full attention to acting, training at the prestigious Juilliard School in New York City and eventually taking over a lead role in Christopher Durangs Tony Awardwinning comedy Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike on Broadway in 2013. His resume reads like a modern-day Will Rogerss: both horseman and showman. He even traveled to Kyrgyzstan to captain the first US team in kok-boru, a rougher version of Rogerss beloved polo that uses a goat carcass as a ball, and directed a documentary about the experience, Nomad Cowboys, now in post-production. A welcome vintage clawfoot soaking tub in Tie Hack Cabin. After we drive through Duboiss blink-and-youll-miss-it downtown, we turn up a pockmarked dirt road and see steam rising from the ranchs natural warm springs beyond. Garnick and his wife, Sascha, a native of Jackson Hole who owned a jewelry business and dabbled in film and TV gigs in Los Angeles, purchased the land in 2018 from the longtime owners, the Albright family, who established it as a ranch and summer retreat in the early 1900s. Ivan Albright, the last Albright to live here, was also an artist. One of the cabins served as his studio, and his paintings, many inspired by Duboiss wide-open vistas, are in prestigious collections, including the Museum of Modern Arts. The land is nestled at the mouth of a canyon with sweeping views of the Wind River Valley and Absaroka Mountain Range. A dozen or so of the ranchs 30 horses roam the sage-brush-carpeted hills in the distance. Garnick stops at an old chink-style log barn. This is the heart of the ranch, he says proudly as he opens my door and motions me over to a fence. Meet the family. With the theatrical sweep of his arm, he gestures toward a barnyard menagerie: long-bearded billy goats, wooly sheep, Shetland ponies, hair pigs, dogs of all sizes, more horses. He scratches noses and rubs bellies as he introduces each by name. Russian Doll star Charlie Barnett, who held his wedding to set designer Drew Bender at the ranch last summer, shares a lakeside cookout with Creed and Sascha Garnick and their son, Huckleberry. At the main lodge, Sascha is waiting with the youngest members of the family, the couples 1-year-old son, Huckleberry, and newborn daughter, Fable. The ranch is, first and foremost, the Garnicks home. Its where they will continue to cultivate their love of the arts, teach their children to ride horses and try to live, as Garnick likes to say, a harmonious existence with the land. The last part could sound a bit righteous, but in todays tech-driven society, many of us have forgotten how to be self-sufficient, let alone exist in nature. Steadfastly self-reliant, Garnick oils and waxes his clothes to protect them from the elements and built the lodges dining room furniture by hand from local wood. The ethos at 3 Spear is a reminder that theres beauty in a more intentional, mindful way of life and wisdom within the land. Jen Murphy The operations intimate size allows Garnick and Minton to act as personal hosts for every guest. Blue-eyed and ruddy cheeked, Minton has an unwaveringly sunny disposition. He calls everyone friend, and it feels like he actually means it. Garnick, however, was his first true friend, he tells me the day I arrive. The boys met when they were 6 years old and went on to ride rodeo together, play kok-boru and share other adventures on horseback. Minton even worked as a wrangler at one of the Garnick family ranches. The lodge offers epic hikes and fly-fishing on the Wind River as well as the propertys stream and two lakes, all full of native rainbow trout. But horseback riding is at the heart of most stays, and unlike at other area ranches, there are no nose-to-tail trail rides here. Each excursion is tailored to a guests ability, which Garnick and Minton can expertly discern upon your first interaction with a horse. And if youre a real rider, youre in for a treat. The Rustic Pine Taverns ride-thru window, in Dubois The men lead most outings and relish the chance to take experienced equestrians on their favorite adventures through daunting terrain so steep your horse might slide down on its rear end or drop off a three-foot cliff. Windy Mountain, the picturesque 10,262-foot peak that looms behind the ranch, can be summited via a five-hour expedition across grasslands, rolling hills and a precipitous former logging road. The pair can also arrange multi-night pack trips or erect a camp next to an old miners cabin for a backcountry-light experience catered by the house chef. I consider myself an intermediate rider at bestcomfortable on a horse but no cowgirl. On my second day, Garnick pairs me with Z Man, a sure-footed caramel-hued mare. Most of my week is spent in the saddle exploring. After Garnick purchased the property, he took near-daily scouting missions, discovering what he calls natural treasures, including caves and swimming holes. These arent places youll find in guidebooks, and guests are asked not to geotag photos of the spots on social media in order to ensure these special places stay that way. Were on a ride a few days later, deep in the 2.4-millionacre Shoshone National Forest that borders 3 Spear, when I finally ask Garnick if he ever considered auditioning for a role on Yellowstone or 1883, the hit series that have reignited urbanites fascination with cowboy culture. He stiffens slightly, hinting that this might be an annoyingly common question from guests. Born and raised on a ranch, he takes a swipe at the stars horsemanship, then admits he auditioned for season one of Yellowstone but was not cast, though his younger brother Golden just landed a role in the new season. Things work out as they are meant to be, Garnick saysand sounds like he means itas we trot through dense stands of lodgepole pine. Though he sure looks the part of a cowboy and certainly rides like one, he considers himself a rancher now, and 3 Spear seems destined to be his legacy. The property is an hours drive from Grand Teton National Park and 90 minutes from Yellowstone. The latters unique geological featuresOld Faithful and the bubbling Fountain Paint Pot Trailare worth the day trip, but if you want wildlife viewing, theres plenty to be had around the ranch. During my weeklong stay, I see antelope and elk, bighorn sheep, foxes and eagles, all from horseback. Driving, we encounter a traffic-jam-inducing herd of bison and, a few miles later, a mama grizzly and her cubs. This will be 3 Spears first winter season, and Garnick says the snow makes it even easier to spot animals, including wolves, loping across the property. 3 Spears horsemen can typically tell an experienced rider from a beginner before theyre even in the saddle. Sky and land seem to stretch to eternity here. Most days we ride at an ambling pace that allows me to take in the endless landscape of vermillion-streaked badlands and the jagged, snow-capped peaks of the Absaroka Range. Lunch is always served in the wild, a picnic feast of Brie and prosciutto sandwiches, homemade hummus and crudites. Chef Richard Barnes is responsible for the lodges sensational food. He and his wife, Lilah Ellis, who handles the front of the house, formerly ran the Lone Buffalo Steakhouse, the closest thing Dubois had to a special-occasion restaurant before 3 Spear opened. Their ranch menu showcases seasonal dishes such as acorn squash stuffed with elk and wild rice, vegan grain bowls and a decadent, 30-day-dry-aged Pied-montese New York Strip. Ellis expertly suggests pairings from a wine list focused on Italian Brunellos and French Premier Crus. Knowing the couples loyal following, 3 Spear has opened the restaurant to the public, and throughout the summer Garnick invites locals up for live music on the lawn. Guests are also encouraged to explore Dubois. Downtown is a 10-minute drive from the ranch, and Minton offers to play host. A glowing neon sign on a storefront reads, this aint no jackson hole, and I cant help but chuckleyou certainly wont see the likes of Prince Harry or Gigi Hadid moseying around this town of barely 900 residents. So far, it has evaded gentrification and held tight to its Old West roots. The Rustic Pine Tavern, a landmark watering hole with sticky wood floors and walls decorated in taxidermy, still holds a Tuesday-night square dance, while Weltys General Store has been hawking homesteading essentials and Western wear since the late 1800s. A dinosaur-sized steer skull frames the entrance to the local laundromat, and a gas station on the outskirts of town also claims to be home to the worlds largest jackalope exhibit. But change is creeping in, with newer businesses appealing to big-city tastes, including a craft gelato shop and a hip coffee house that serves cold brew and oat-milk lattes. In the past few years, billionaire Dan Starks, a former health-care exec, and his wife, Cynthia, who became Dubois residents in 2016, have invested heavily in the community. The couple recently opened a bells- and-whistles bowling alley and founded the National Museum of Military Vehicles, plowing $100 million into the facility just outside town, which features everything from tanks and jeeps to aircraft and naval vessels. It also houses rare artifacts, including the musket that fired the first shot of the Battle of Bunker Hill in the Revolutionary War. Some old-timers in town worry Dubois could indeed go the way of Jackson Hole, out-pricing locals, but most, including Minton, see the new investment as incentive for the younger generation to stick around. Hints of the areas own intriguing past are hidden throughout the wilderness. After we split a slice of homemade blueberry-rhubarb pie from the mom-and-pop Cowboy Cafe, Minton drives us to a trailhead for a hike. The trail winds high above Torrey and Rim Lakes, past ancient petroglyphs believed to have been created thousands of years ago by the Tukudika, or Mountain Sheepeaters, a band of the Shoshone Indians who once called this land home. The next day, we off-road to a lookout where he points out a distinctive curved peakthe Ramshorn. The emblem of Dubois sits at the top of the Dunoir River Valley, where the Disney family once owned a ranch. Sunrise Safaris Tours takes guests to view wildlife, historical sites and geothermal oddities. We drive a bit farther and Minton parks the truck, then leads me down a steep, rocky path to what must have been Disneys inspiration for its famous log-flume ride, Splash Mountain. Narrow wooden channels, many still intact, hug the rocky cliffs across from us. In the early 20th century, Minton explains, Scandinavian immigrants known as tie-hack men set up camp in these forests, felling pines to sell for railroad ties. When the spring runoff came along, the logs were transported to the railroad in Riverton via the Wind River by an intricate wooden aqueduct network. To prevent logjams, daring tie-hack men would ride the logs themselves. Every hike and ride feels thoughtfully plotted to deliver a complementary history lesson. We aim to surprise, entertain and educate, Garnick tells me later that evening over a meal of shareable appetizersroasted beets and burrata, crispy duck wings and a grazing board of bison and venison salumi, elk sausage and cheeses. Minton and Sascha have joined us, and since its my final night, we take rounds of Moscow mules down to the Pool Palace, a saloon-style building with an original 1892 New Brunswick pool table as focal point. By midnight, weve made our way to the dock next door, where we dangle our feet in the 80-degree spring pool. A masterful storyteller, Garnick shares an outlandish tale of taking his pet pig on a harrowing hike so it could get some exercise and having to carry the squealing animal back down the mountain, then another about nursing an injured hawk to health (he wears one of its feathers in his hat). After one more round of libations, hes describing his vision to create a riff on Sleep No More, the groundbreaking site-specific retelling of Shakespeares Macbeth, at the ranch. Well use a work from Anton Chekhov, and maybe guests will ride from scene to scene, he muses, wild-eyed. This is the role Garnick was born to play. Hes going off script from the traditional ranch stay and ushering in a fresh, exciting experience that captures the modern-day American West, in all its raw, real glory. Best of Robb Report Sign up for Robb Report's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Click here to read the full article. Breezeline is converting its cable television customers in Ohio to a streaming service. Breezeline has started transitioning its Ohio customers away from a cable-based service to a streaming television platform. The switch is the last major part of changes Breezeline announced for Ohio customers after it acquired WOW!'s Columbus and Cleveland markets for $1.125 billion. The Massachusetts-based company, formerly known as Atlantic Broadband, is moving customers to Breezeline Stream TV, an internet protocol television (IPTV) service, instead of a traditional cable TV service. "Stream TV transforms the viewing experience for Breezeline customers," said company spokesman Andrew Walton. "Its loaded with features, but is incredibly simple to use." Walton noted that Stream TV is among other changes Breezeline has made in Ohio, including investing $50 million last year and another $75 million this year to improve internet capacity in Ohio, following service complaints when Breezeline moved into the state last year. Here's what Breezeline customers need to know about the switch (customers can learn more details by visiting Breezeline's Stream TV site): Are all Breezeline cable television customers switching to Stream TV? Do they have a choice? All customers will be switched. When will the transition occur? Will customers be notified in advance? Breezeline started switching Columbus customers in January and expects to be finished by late summer. Customers are being notified in groups of the switch. Is there a cost difference between Breezeline cable and streaming television? "The cost will be similar, but will vary by customer depending on their services," Walton said. "Our package pricing is extremely competitive and we offer discounts for customers who move into Breezeline packages." Do customers need any hardware - or home visit - to make the switch? What should they do with their existing hardware? Stream TV requires a small (4-by-4-inch) box that customers can install on their own. The box costs $4.99 a month. After they are notified that their service will be switched, customers are asked to call 844-458-1696 to have a box sent to their home. After installing the box, they are asked to return the old cable box, at no cost, by using an address label sent to them. Story continues What, if any, are the differences in channels between Breezeline Stream TV and Breezeline cable service? The channel lineups are not changing, with the exception of the addition of the NASA channel, although the new service offers features such as video on demand and multi-platform viewing, that the cable services lacks. Does Stream TV offer a recording or DVR function? Yes. Customers can record up to 300 hours of HD recordings through a service called Cloud DVR Max. Can customers use Breezeline Stream on any device, and is there a limit to the number of devices that can be registered, or used simultaneously? Stream TV can be accessed on a television via the Stream TV box. Accessing the service through a phone or tablet requires downloading the Stream TV App and using using a Breezeline email address. Stream TV is not directly available on laptops, but customers can use their Breezeline credentials to access specific channels through a laptop. The company said it is working to make the full Stream TV service available on laptops. A maximum of 10 devices can be signed to one account and a maximum of five shows can be streamed simultaneously. Shows streamed via the Stream TV boxes do not count toward the limits. Do customers need a minimum internet speed to reliably access Stream TV? The service is available with all internet speeds Breezeline offers in Ohio, though the company recommends that customers who regularly stream simultaneously on multiple home devices consider high-speed internet. Can Breezeline Stream be found on Roku, Fire Sticks or Apple TV? The Stream TV app is available through FireTV and AppleTV devices, though not through a Roku device. How many customers in Columbus and Cleveland will be impacted? Breezeline, is the eighth-largest cable operator in the United States, about 1.5 million customers. Breezeline does not release the number of its customers by market, but said when it acquired WOW!'s Ohio operations that it served about 196,000 internet, 61,000 video and 35,000 telephone customers in Columbus and Cleveland. jweiker@dispatch.com @JimWeiker This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Breezeline switching to streaming TV service - what users should know TOKYO, Feb. 4 (Xinhua) -- Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said on Saturday that he has fired Masayoshi Arai as secretary to him over discriminatory remarks against sexual minorities. Kishida, who has recently expressed caution over legalizing same-sex marriage, told reporters that he took the issue "very seriously" and that Arai's successor has already been decided. "Executive secretary Arai's remarks totally contradict the government's policy and are inexcusable," said the prime minister. Arai, an elite bureaucrat from the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) who serves as an executive secretary to the prime minister, said during an off-the-record conversation with reporters the previous day that he would "not want to live next door" to an LGBT couple and that he would "hate even to see them." Arai also said that if same-sex marriage is introduced in Japan, it would "change the way society is" and that "there are quite a few people who would abandon this country." Arai quickly retracted the comments on Friday after they were made public by the media and apologized, adding that the remarks did not reflect Kishida's own thinking. Arai, 55-year-old, was appointed an executive secretary to the prime minister in October 2021, when the Kishida administration took office, from his post as director-general of the commerce and information policy bureau at the METI. Democratic Sen. John Fetterman of Pennsylvania and his family await their turn in the Old Senate Chamber on January 3, 2023. Michael Brochstein/Sipa USA/Reuters John Fetterman is the freshman Democratic senator from Pennsylvania. His arrival in DC has sparked impromptu photo shoots, technological updates and bond-building. Delegation-mate Sen. Bob Casey told Insider that Fetterman is off to a great start. At 6'8", the mountain of a man that is John Fetterman pretty much stands out in every setting at the US Capitol. In addition to being the tallest senator in the 118th Congress, the Pennsylvania Democrat holds the distinction of being the only freshman lawmaker to flip a Senate seat during the 2022 midterms beating Trump-endorsed celebrity candidate Mehmet Oz by nearly 5 points in one of the gnarliest battlegrounds of the cycle. The pivotal victory helped Senate Democrats finally break the 50-50 split they'd operated under for two years and fully claim majority status. That power shift has produced a divided government now that House Republicans control the other chamber. While organizational challenges have led to slow starts in the House and Senate, Fetterman who suffered a stroke in May and developed an auditory-processing disorder that his doctor said may cause him to occasionally "miss" words during the course of a conversation is getting acclimated to how things work in DC. Insider spoke to Fetterman's colleagues, his staff, and congressional reporters about the newcomer's first month in Washington, and what to expect from him as Congress gets rolling. Democratic Sen. John Fetterman of Pennsylvania is ceremonially sworn into office by Vice President Kamala Harris as Fetterman's wife Gisele holds the Bible during a reenactment in the Old Senate Chamber on the first day of the 118th Congress at the US Capitol in Washington, DC, on January 3, 2023. REUTERS/Jon Cherry 'The bromance is on' One of the people Fetterman connected with early on is fellow freshman Sen. Peter Welch. Senator Peter Welch (@PeterWelch) December 12, 2022 "I enjoyed getting to know Sen. Fetterman during our freshman orientation, and we've had the opportunity to get together a few times since we've settled into our new roles," the Vermont Democrat told Insider of their budding relationship. Welch noted that in addition to trading home state gear in December Welch tweeted a photo of Fetterman holding up a giant hoodie with the word "Vermont" stretched across the chest, and said Fetterman has since returned the favor by outfitting him with "some Pittsburgh gear" the two have started spitballing legislative issues they could tag-team together. Story continues "I know Sen. Fetterman is interested in nutrition, and I share his concerns there, so I look forward to collaborating to get things done for folks in Pennsylvania and Vermont," Welch said. Food issues definitely fall under their purview as newly minted members of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry. Fetterman has also hit it off with Pennsylvania's senior Sen. Bob Casey. "The bromance is on," a Pennsylvania-based reporter posted online after snapping a pic of the delegation mates clowning around in mid-January. Others have also sought Fetterman out for self-styled photo ops. Green New Deal advocate and Democratic Sen. Ed Markey of Massachusetts took a selfie with Fetterman on the first day of the new Congress, captioning the snapshot "Welcome, friend." And the attraction isn't limited to just Senate folks. Rep. Maxwell Frost, the newly elected first Gen Z member of Congress, told Insider that he made a point of huddling with Fetterman when he spotted him at the White House reception for new members. Maxwell Alejandro Frost (@MaxwellFrostFL) January 25, 2023 "I think he showed that when we stick to our message about what we're for, not what we're against, that we're able to win. Even in battleground states," Frost said just off the House floor. The Florida Democrat added that he's excited to work with and learn from the "bold progressive." "I'm a fan of his campaign. And his Twitter posting. And his shitposting," Frost gushed between House votes. "I love it!" 'Off to a great start' Sen. Casey told Insider that Fetterman has already hit the ground running. "John's off to a great start," Casey said as he made his way from the Capitol to the Senate office buildings. The 3-term lawmaker commended Fetterman for scoring some prime committee assignments, including posts on the Environment and Public Works Committee, the Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs Committee, the Joint Economic Committee, the agriculture panel, and the Casey-led Special Committee on Aging. "He's got some really important committees for our state," Casey said of the natural overlap between regional challenges and Fetterman's commitment to bolstering union labor, working-class finances, and the environment. And while they haven't sussed out specific policy goals yet, Casey said "we'll be comparing notes soon." Fetterman pledged to make the most of his assignments in an official statement, vowing to fight for local farmers, "protect consumers and take on corporate greed," and build on recent infrastructure wins by keeping "our highways, roads, and bridges well-maintained." While he has yet to draft a bill of his own, Fetterman is putting his stamp on the legislative process in other ways. He pushed for the passage of a languishing workers' rights bill after the Bureau of Labor Statistics released new data on declining union membership numbers. Fetterman has also co-sponsored a handful of wide-ranging bills, including the healthcare-related Better Care Better Jobs Act (S. 100) and an anti-workplace surveillance bill (S. 262), both introduced by Sen. Casey; a DC statehood bill (S. 51) introduced by Sen. Carper; the Assault Weapons Ban of 2023 (S. 25) introduced by Democratic Sen. Dianne Feinstein of California; and a pay raise bill (S. 124) introduced by Democratic Sen. Brian Schatz of Hawaii. He's also met with supporters on the Hill, welcoming representatives from Planned Parenthood of Pennsylvania and the National Association of School Nurses to his office. Fetterman staff said there's even been international outreach, including a meeting with Ukrainian prosecutor general Andriy Kostin, Ukrainian ambassador to the US Oksana Markarova, and president of the Ukranian Supreme Court Vsevolod Kniaziev. And on January 23, Fetterman cast his first vote on the Senate floor, helping to clear the way for a Biden administration nominee. Bridging the communication gap Senate administrators have hustled to drag the archaic chamber into the 21st century to meet Fetterman's auditory processing needs, Time reported earlier this week. That technological fine-tuning has included modifications such as installing a "permanent live caption display monitor" at Fetterman's desk on the Senate floor, and a remote setup that he can use at the dais whenever he's tapped to preside over the entire chamber. "Both wired screens will work without internet if needed, relying on the Senate Office of Captioning Services' stenotype machines, caption encoding hardware, and staff in the Capitol itself," Time wrote of the triple layer of security and immediate transcription specially designed for Fetterman. The service has already come in handy, aiding Fetterman as he embarked on his debut line of questioning at the Agriculture Committee's February 1 hearing on the 2023 farm bill. Fetterman stumbled a bit when addressing the witnesses, repeating the word "farm" when he seemingly meant to say family. But US Department of Agriculture undersecretary Alexis Taylor intuitively picked up what he was going for, opening her response with an anecdote about her own experience with family-owned farms. Fetterman has, so far, avoided similar missteps while walking the hallways by declining to field the barrage of questions congressional reporters regularly bombard lawmakers with at every turn. A Fetterman aide, who requested anonymity in order to freely discuss the inner workings of the office, told Insider that staff is working on ways to facilitate on-the-spot interviews. One solution could be to expand the functionality of the personal iPad Fetterman staffers always have at the ready, a tool the aide said is currently equipped with "some software we found that works with the talk-to-text, so John can read what people are saying." Having reporters jot down their questions, either on paper or via a notepad app, and then holding it so Fetterman can read it himself, is also on the table, as is pulling reporters into less crowded or somewhat quieter locations to help cut out confusion. "We're just trying to see what works for both sides so there are opportunities for engagement," the aide said. The caveat is that "sometimes he's not going to answer every question, just like every other senator." That seemed to be the case when a congressional reporter tried to flag down Fetterman late last week. Insider watched the fellow journalist call Fetterman's name, and then immediately thrust their phone out so he could read the prepared question. Fetterman glanced at the screen for a beat, but then turned his head and walked away without saying a word. The reporter told Insider the query had been about fracking which was a major issue in Fetterman's race against Oz and will undoubtedly come up in future Environment Committee hearings. Other reporters have taken a run at Fetterman over the past few weeks, only to be waved off by his protective staff. The two camps will have to find some sort of workaround soon. Especially since, as one incredulous tourist observed, the towering Democrat is simply impossible to ignore. "We're all just gawking," the astute teenager blurted out to her friends as they turned, in unison, to watch Fetterman stroll through the packed Senate subway. Read the original article on Business Insider Shortly after Russia began its deadly invasion of Ukraine last March, Ukrainian officials and human rights groups warned that Russian forces had begun abducting and forcibly relocating thousands of Ukrainian children. A group of 15 Ukrainian orphans and their adult guardian say they were caught in that very limbo after they were taken by Russian soldiers, barred from evacuating, and forcibly transferred. The children, who were put on Ukraines missing persons list, shared their story for the first time with ABC News Live, detailing how a group of American volunteers eventually got them out. MORE: Video Orphans stolen by Russian soldiers "We didn't understand why [the Russians] took us. We were afraid of them, and afraid of being in Russia," 14-year-old Dasha, one of the orphans, told ABC News. PHOTO: A group of Ukrainian orphans and their headmaster are now residing in Georgia after being held hostage by Russian troops (ABC News) Last week Ukraine's top presidential adviser for children's rights said Russian troops have abducted close to 14,000 Ukrainian kids. The Russian government has rejected claims that it has been kidnapping children. The forcible transfer of children can constitute a grave war crime. Natalia Vladimirovna, head of the orphanage, says she and the kids packed up as soon as the war began. They waited to be evacuated, only to find out no one was coming for them. "If only I had known what was waiting for us," she said. "If only I had known what would happen. Then I would have taken their backpacks and gone on foot with them. I couldn't believe that that horror would last so long. I thought everything would end soon." There was nothing left to do but hunker down; the kids moved into the basement below their school. The region fell, and Russian soldiers soon came to the orphanage. PHOTO: Surveillance footage shows Russian troops entering a Ukrainian orphanage in March 2022. (Obtained by ABC News) "I remember this tank very well that stopped and began to twitch around with its muzzle. We froze in horror. I thought it would shoot to our school," Vladimirovna said. "He asked me how many children we have here, so I realized that locals told them about the children. I said that, 'It's my children, and I'm the mother.'" Story continues Among the 15 children was the daughter of an American family, Yulia, who had just been adopted; her paperwork was finalized just four days after the war broke out. Her mom Beth Wight says its clear the children were kidnapped. "I just don't know how else you would describe it, Wight said. "Especially with our situation, with having ours be adopted, obviously, she didn't want to be there. She wanted to come home to her family. They did-- they captured those kids." PHOTO: Natalya Vladimirovna, the head of a Ukrainian orphanage that was invaded by Russian troops last year, speaks with ABC News' Ines de La Cuetara. (ABC News) Wight grew increasingly concerned-- until she eventually lost all contact with Yulia. "If they found out she was adopted by an American family like that, it could put her and everybody else at massive risk as well," Wight told ABC News. Vladimirovna says that while the soldiers treated the children well, they barred them from leaving. She says they even threatened her after learning she had been asking around for help evacuating. "[The soldiers] were armed and angry. One of them sat with hands hitting a table and was hitting a rifle on the floor," she said. "He said, 'Do you even realize what you were doing and how it could end?'" Wight reached out to a group of volunteers from the Christian charity Borderlands International who were in Ukraine helping evacuate people. Kathy Stickel, one of the volunteers who later joined the effort told ABC News the team came to realize the orphanage was behind Russian lines "I couldn't, I just couldn't stand to have them be thinking that they didn't matter, that they were just like leaves that are being blown around with no direction, and no destination, said Stickel. The surveillance was one of the major challenges in getting them out. And then, of course, that they're a fairly large group. "And at that point, I just was really starting to feel very hopeless, like if they're really captured by the Russians. There's a good chance we're never going to see her again, even though adoption is final. She was our daughter," said Wight. MORE: Russia-Ukraine live updates Vladimirovna said she and the kids were then forcibly moved to the village of Stepanivka, outside Kherson. Vladimirovna said armed soldiers spent the night at the orphanage after informing her of their decision, to make sure no one tried to flee. "They secured the orphanage the whole night. They counted children in the shelter. They checked if I was hiding somebody. They really were patrolling, walking between rooms," she said. In Stepanivka, Vladimirovna said the children were being constantly watched, and were repeatedly used in propaganda videos where Russian troops claimed they were rescuing the kids from Ukraine. PHOTO: Kathy Srtickel and Ash, two volunteers who have been helping to evacuate people out of Ukraine, speak with ABC News' Ines de La Cuetara. (ABC News) After Ukrainian troops took back Kherson, Vladimirovna said she and the kids were once again forcibly movedthis time, to Krasnodar, Russia. With Russian president Putin fast-tracking the process for Russian families to adopt Ukrainian children, Ash and Stickel said the big fear was that the children would be put up for adoption. Then, in November, nine months after the war broke out-- all fifteen children crossed the Russian border into Georgia. Stickel told ABC News that she and other volunteers are pushing to get more Ukrainian children out of Russia. "We can't actually go into the mechanics of how it was done, because it needs done again and again and again, she said. And we do feel that weight-- a miracle is unfairness. Right? We hold up these 15 kids and say, 'That's a miracle.' And yet the unfairness that there's so many still out there." PHOTO: Beth Wight and Yulia, who was adopted from Ukraine, speak with ABC News. (ABC News) The orphans are now living in a new home in Georgia and receiving help from a Christian charity, Borderlands International. As for Yulia, she is finally home in Wyoming and is now an American citizen, telling ABC the one thing she's most excited about for her new life in the U.S. is peace. 'Kidnapped' by Russian soldiers: Ukrainian orphans, guardian share their story after release originally appeared on abcnews.go.com Rumble Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-GA) lamented this week about how little she was getting paid as a member of Congress, claiming that her low congressional salary had made her life miserable as she made a lot more money before stepping into public service. The MAGA firebrand, who fashions herself as a populist concerned about the plight of everyday Americans, recently appeared on investigative journalist turned professional troll Glenn Greenwalds podcast. While ostensibly there to talk about her newfound alliance with House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, the Ukraine war, and other right-wing culture war gripes, she also found time to complain about how hard it is being a congresswoman. The nature of this job, it keeps members of Congress and senators in Washington so much of the timetoo much of the time, to be honest with youthat we dont get to go home and spend more time with our families, our friends, all in our district, or maybe just be regular people, the Georgia lawmaker grumbled. Because this job is so demanding, its turned into practically year-round. She continued: And for those of us in the House of Representatives, we have to run for Congress every two years. So youre practically campaigning nearly the entire time that youre here serving as a representative. Marjorie Taylor Greene: Becoming a member of Congress has made my life miserable. I made a lot more money before I got here. Ive lost money since Ive gotten here. Its not a life that I think is like something that I enjoy because I dont enjoy it. pic.twitter.com/p3w23vF48h PatriotTakes (@patriottakes) February 3, 2023 After saying this was a recipe for disaster, Greene then fumed about her House salary and how she had taken a massive pay cut to serve in Congress. (Greenes father had sold his general-contracting company to her and her now ex-husband back in 2002.) Story continues Becoming a member of Congress has made my life miserable. I made a lot more money before I got here. Ive lost money since Ive gotten here, she groused, adding, Its not a life that I think is like something that I enjoy because I dont enjoy it. Greenes office did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Members of the House of Representatives earn a salary of $174,000 a year. Additionally, the House was in session for 164 days last year, meaning Rep. Greene was required to work less than half the calendar year. Greene, who was kicked off of committees in the last congressional session due to her violently conspiratorial rantings, was given plum assignments after the GOP narrowly regained the majority in the House and McCarthy was elected speaker. After the far-right lawmaker threw her support behind McCarthy during his chaotic fight for the speakership, she was placed on the House Oversight and Homeland Security committees. Read more at The Daily Beast. Get the Daily Beast's biggest scoops and scandals delivered right to your inbox. Sign up now. Stay informed and gain unlimited access to the Daily Beast's unmatched reporting. Subscribe now. WASHINGTON Secretary of State Antony Blinken postponed an imminent trip to China because a Chinese surveillance balloon drifting over the U.S. is a "clear violation" of sovereignty and international law, senior Sate Department officials said Friday. The official, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, said Blinken will reschedule the trip when conditions are right. On Friday, the balloon was located over the center of the U.S. at about 60,000 feet moving eastward, the Pentagon's Ryder told reporters. The National Weather Service in Kansas City said it has had several reports across northwest Missouri and the Kansas City metro area of a large balloon visible on the horizon. We have had several reports across northwest MO of a large balloon visible on the horizon. It is now visible from our office in Pleasant Hill and the KC Metro. We have confirmed that it is not an NWS weather balloon. pic.twitter.com/CKQWOw7God NWS Kansas City (@NWSKansasCity) February 3, 2023 Although the trip had not been officially announced, Blinken had been set to leave Friday night, a day after the Pentagon announced it had spottedwhat it identified as a spy balloon flying over the U.S. China disputed that characterization, calling it a civilian airship that blew off course. The air ship is used for meteorological and other research, the Chinese government said in a statement in which it expressed regret for its unintended entry into U.S. airspace. In response, a senior State Department official said the U.S. remains "confident in our assessment and our concerns about this clear violation of our sovereignty and airspace." We know that its a surveillance balloon, Air Force Brig. Gen. Pat Ryder, Pentagon press secretary, later told reporters. The balloon is likely to remain over the United States for a few days, Ryder said. Story continues Shooting down the balloon poses too high a risk to people and property from debris, two U.S. officials said Friday. Other options are being explored, according to the officials who were not authorized to speak publicly. The incident comes at a time of rising tension between the superpowers. The latest Where it is: The balloon had been drifting Montana where the Pentagon has nuclear missile silos. On Friday, the balloon was located over the center of the U.S. at about 60,000 feet moving eastward, the Pentagon's Ryder told reporters. What it is: The balloon is designed for surveillance, according to the Pentagon. But it likely is unable to collect more information than is available to spy satellites. Steps taken: While the Pentagon decided against shooting it down, the government took steps to prevent it from collecting sensitive information. Fighter jets sent: F-22 fighter jets, the most advanced warplane in the Pentagon's arsenal, were sent to observe the balloon. Not first time: Its not the first time Chinese spy balloons have flown over the United States. the official said. Not a risk to aircraft: The balloon is flying so high that it does not present a danger to civilian aircraft, Air Force Gen. Glen VanHerck, commander of U.S. Northern Command and North American Aerospace Defense Command, said in a statement. Why it matters Tensions have been rising with China, which the U.S. considers its biggest strategic and economic competitor. The nations have clashed over Taiwan, technology, human rights and Russias invasion of Ukraine. The Biden administration has been trying to stabilize the relationship, building what its called guardrails as it normalizes interaction. After a three-hour meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping on the sidelines of the G-20 summit in November, President Joe Biden said both countries share a responsibility to "manage our differences, prevent competition from becoming anything ever to near conflict, and to find ways to work together on urgent global issues that require our mutual cooperation." Xi responded: "The world has come to a crossroads. Where to go from here this is a question that is not only on our mind but also on the mind of all countries. The world expects that China and the United States will properly handle the relationship." Maintaining a dialogue Blinken was set to travel to China as an outgrowth of Bidens meeting with Xi. Both leaders had agreed to get their teams together to try to restore some of the lines of communication. Beijing had suspended or canceled eight official military dialogues and cooperation channels with the U.S. after former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., visited Taiwan in August. Last month, Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen met with her Chinese counterpart in Switzerland to work on repairing relations. But senior State Department officials said it wouldnt have been constructive for Blinken to go to China right now. The spy balloon incident would have detracted from the planned broad, substantive agenda, according to officials. Blinken hopes to reschedule at the earliest opportunity, when conditions allow officials said. Rising tensions Tensions were already rising in before the arrival of the Chinese balloon. Among recent developments: Increased military presence: The U.S. is nearly doubling its military presence in the Philippines under an agreement announced Thursday thats part of an effort to counter Chinas threats to Taiwan and growing Chinese influence in the Indo-Pacific region. Taiwan invasion? A top Air Force general recently predicted that the U.S. will be at war with China over Taiwan in two years. But Gen. Mark Milley, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, said in November said it will be some time before the Chinese have the military capability to invade Taiwan. Limiting chip access: After the Biden administration last year imposed export controls to limit Chinas ability to access advanced computer chips, Japan and the Netherlands agreed recently to restrict Chinas access to materials needed to make the chips. The chips can be used to make advanced military systems. GOP response: Congressional Republicans are criticizing the Biden administration for not dealing with China more forcefully. Soon after taking control of the House in January, Republicans created a committee aimed at increasing U.S. competitiveness with China. TikTok troubles: More than half the states have banned TikTok on government devices. There are also national security concerns, including the possibility that Beijing could use the China-owned platform to control data collection on millions of users, according to FBI Director Christopher Wray. Want to know more? Here's what you missed Related: US plans to expand its military presence in Philippines to counter threats against Taiwan Biden, Trump, Pence aren't alone: Millions access sensitive documents, mishandling is common More: GOP removes Rep. Ilhan Omar from Foreign Affairs Committee, citing her comments on Israel This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: China says spy balloon flying over US is a 'civilian airship' Company Logo Dublin, Feb. 03, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Middle East Oil & Gas Monitor" newsletter has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. With around 40% of the world's oil supply coming from the Persian Gulf, in addition to exploration and production (E&P), MEOG's coverage includes policy and transport issues which can cause price spikes in the global hydrocarbon markets. MEOG offers insight into the latest developments in the oil and gas sectors of Bahrain, Iraq, Iran, Israel, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Syria, Turkey, the UAE and Yemen. While much of the region has been extensively explored, there remain 'frontier' areas of E&P. Oil shale efforts in Jordan could provide vast resources through the greater cost effectiveness of new technologies. To the north-west, Beirut has grown increasingly impatient to follow the major gas discovery trend in the Eastern Med. and Lebanon's first offshore bid round is likely to kick off drilling campaigns in the medium term. MEOG is fully digital publication and can be read via PDF, PageSuite or via the NewsBase App. Key Topics Covered: Sample Table of Contents COMMENTARY KRG to respond to Baghdad's overtures this week Oil-producing countries account for 75% of global gas flaring FINANCE & INVESTMENT Bahri to issue sukuk as Saudi launches a new shipbuilder POLICY & SECURITY Iran finds more partners as EU looks to save deal Caspian littoral states meeting to be held in Tehran later in May PROJECTS & COMPANIES Energean makes Athena find offshore Israel TENDERS KOC nears award for pump supply deal NEWS IN BRIEF EVENT NEWSBASE ROUNDUP GLOBAL (NRG) Countries Covered Bahrain Iraq Iran Israel Jordan Kuwait Lebanon Oman Qatar Saudi Arabia Syria Turkey UAE Yemen For more information about this newsletter visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/j9uiop-east-oil?w=12 About ResearchAndMarkets.com ResearchAndMarkets.com is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends. Story continues CONTACT: CONTACT: ResearchAndMarkets.com Laura Wood,Senior Press Manager press@researchandmarkets.com For E.S.T Office Hours Call 1-917-300-0470 For U.S./ CAN Toll Free Call 1-800-526-8630 For GMT Office Hours Call +353-1-416-8900 This Thursday, after having had two cups of cardamom-flavored coffee and finished Wordle (3/6), my column deadline approaches and I struggle to make sense of interconnected conflicts and tragedies unfolding in Washington and the Middle East. Robert Azzi In Washington, a woman of color, Congresswoman Ilhan Omar of Minnesota, a former refugee of Somali descent who is the first African-born member of congress and the only House Foreign Affairs Committee member who's lived in a refugee camp, has just been politically-lynched for believing, as Archbishop Tutu believed, as I believe, as millions of others believe, that Israel has become an apartheid state a land where only some residents have rights based on their religious affiliations and practice. The reality is that Israel has become a land where Palestinian territories have become Bantustans, where land is stolen from farmers, olive trees uprooted, water denied, health care limited, homes destroyed, and systems of control over people who have little say in their governance. A land where, according to an UN Human Rights Committee report in 2022, the widespread practice of arbitrary arrest and detention of Palestinians, including journalists, human rights defenders and children ... subjugates Palestinians to oppression and strips them of any sense of human rights and dignity. "I am especially urging the [Presbyterian General] Assembly to adopt the overture naming Israel as an apartheid state through its domestic policies and maintenance of the occupation," the late Archbishop Tutu wrote in 2014, "and the overture calling for divestment of certain companies that contribute to the occupation of the Palestinian people..." I am in agreement with those sentiments, in agreement with Human Rights Watch, and Amnesty International, in agreement with Israels most prominent human rights group, B'Tselem, in describing Israels governance of Palestinians as apartheid. In the Middle East, since New Year's Day, at least 30 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli forces in the occupied West Bank, including militants and civilians. Those casualties follow a year, 2022, where more that 150 Palestinians including militant gunmen, armed attackers and unarmed civilians were killed in the occupied territories, nearly all by Israeli forces. Story continues Last week, the day after an Israeli raid on a refugee camp in Jenin that killed 10 Palestinians, a Palestinian gunman criminally opened fire on worshippers at a synagogue in Neve Yaakov, an illegal settlement built on land Israel illegally annexed in Palestinian East Jerusalem after the 1967 war. The terrorist attack killed seven Israelis. Those issues that violence, those deaths are connected. The distinctions and narratives defining them are important. Today, understanding how interrelated those events are, how important it is to support oppressed and minority communities as intersectional allies, wherever they are, is central to the survival of democracy, whether in Israel/Palestine or America. As in nature, democracy thrives in diversity and pluralism, in light and love, in embracing the sojourner, in comforting the samaritan at the side of the road. As we rightly condemn all violence that takes innocent lives whether at Neve Yaakov or The Tree of Life Synagogue, whether in Christchurch or Brasilia, at Mother Emanuel, Jenin, or at the U.S. Capitol we must understand that every death, every violent confrontation, moves a people further from their capacity for inclusion and peace and limits their ability to confront the inequalities and injustices in society that are central to poverty and oppression. No nation, no people, are today free of the pernicious dangers of religious nationalism, nativism, racism, antisemitism, xenophobia, misogyny, Islamophobia, prejudice against LGBTQIA+ peoples, all common tropes deployed by demagogues to mobilize their followers and consolidate their power Used by demagogues to drive a fear of The Other, to deny that all human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights. "Those behind the effort to remove Ilhan Omar claim that shes bigoted against Jews. Her Democratic defenders counter that the real bigots are those Republicans seeking to oust a Black Muslim woman. Yet neither side is talking much about what Ms. Omar has actually done on the committee from which she may soon be removed. Thats too bad. Because what Ms. Omar has done is extraordinary," Peter Beinart, editor at large of Jewish Currents, wrote in the New York Times. " ... Ms. Omars detractors might say all this reflects her anti-Americanism. Theyre wrong. Ms. Omar speaks idealistically about 'the moral authority the United States carries on the world stage when we stand up for human rights.' She just recognizes as do many across the globe that the United States doesnt exercise that moral authority nearly as often as our leaders claim." Omar understands, as Archbishop Tutu has written, that Those who turn a blind eye to injustice actually perpetuate injustice. If you are neutral in situations of injustice, you have chosen the side of the oppressor. "I am a survivor of war, and I understand personally how it takes lives, shatters futures and tears apart families," Rep. Omar said in 2021. "I also know the moral authority the United States carries on the world stage when we stand up for human rights. We have an opportunity to live up to these values, to ensure that no child lives through violent conflict like I did, and to mean what we say when it comes to championing human rights worldwide ..." It is not Ilhan Omar who lost the vote in Congress. It is America. Robert Azzi, a photographer and writer who lives in Exeter, can be reached at theother.azzi@gmail.com. His columns are archived at theotherazzi.wordpress.com. This article originally appeared on Portsmouth Herald: Azzi: Ilhan Omar: 'I am a survivor of war' At President Joe Biden's direction, a U.S. fighter jet downed a Chinese surveillance balloon off the coast of the Carolinas on Saturday. The F-22 stealth fighter assigned to U.S. Northern Command successfully brought down the craft that sparked national security concerns and a rift with China as it drifted across the continental United States this week. Biden had told the military earlier this week to shoot down the balloon, but the Pentagon recommended they wait until it was safe to do so, the president told reporters on Saturday. "They decided the best time to do that was when it got over water," Biden said. "On Wednesday, President Biden gave his authorization to take down the surveillance balloon as soon as the mission could be accomplished without undue risk to American lives under the balloons path," Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said in a statement. "After careful analysis, U.S. military commanders determined downing the balloon while over land posed an undue risk to people across a wide area due to the size and altitude of the balloon and its surveillance payload." The FAA on Saturday restricted airspace over three cities in the Carolinas after Biden pledged were going to take care of it" during a stop in Syracuse, N.Y. Later Saturday, Biden smiled and flashed a thumbs up to reporters when asked if the U.S. was going to shoot down the balloon, as he boarded Air Force One at Hancock Field Air National Guard Base in New York. The FAA said flights to and from Wilmington, Myrtle Beach International and Charleston International airports were resuming Saturday afternoon. "Other airspace has been reopened. Normal operations resuming," a spokesperson said. U.S. officials began tracking the balloon over U.S. territory on Jan. 28, when it was seen over Alaska, according to a senior Defense official. It then entered Canadian airspace on Jan. 30, and re-entered U.S. airspace over northern Idaho on Jan. 31. Story continues The president asked for options on Tuesday, the official said. On Wednesday, Austin convened the chief of U.S. Northern Command, Joint Chiefs Chairman Gen. Mark Milley and other senior leaders to discuss the way ahead. While DoD had a shot window to take down the balloon over Montana, military commanders just didnt feel like we could buy down the risk enough over land, the person said. Defense officials estimated debris from could fall in at least a seven-mile radius, a senior military official said, so the decision was made to hold off. At the president's direction, the Pentagon developed options to bring down the balloon "safely over our territorial waters, while closely monitoring its path and intelligence collection activities," Austin said. On Friday night, Biden was briefed on the plan to shoot down the balloon and approved it, according to a senior administration official. On Saturday, an F-22 stealth fighter jet from Langley Air Force Base, Virginia, shot a single AIM-9X air-to-air missile that took down the balloon, the senior Defense official said. The mission was supported by F-15s from Barnes Air National Guard Base in Massachusetts and tankers from multiple locations. This was the first available opportunity to successfully bring down the surveillance balloon in a way that would not pose a threat to the safety of Americans, the official said. There are no indications that any people, civilian aircraft or maritime vessels were harmed in any way. The U.S. will now work to recover any debris and any material of intelligence value from the balloon. Multiple U.S. Navy and U.S. Coast Guard vessels are in the region to help with the recovery mission, the senior military official said. The debris is in just 47 feet of water, which will make the recovery fairly easy, actually, the person said. While the Pentagon worked to bring down the balloon, officials also took steps to protect against the balloons ability to collect sensitive information, the person said. Its flight path took it over some sensitive military installations. The balloons flight was also of intelligence value to the United States, the official noted. I can't go into more detail but we were able to study and scrutinize the balloon and its equipment, the person said. The mission was closely coordinated with the Canadian government, Austin noted. Late Saturday, China called the shooting down a "serious violation of international practice," and threatened repercussions. China has denied that it was using the balloon to spy on the U.S., saying it was a civilian airship used to monitor weather that blew off course due to unexpected wind. U.S. officials spoke directly with Chinese officials following the operation, according to the senior administration official. The State Department also briefed allies and partners around the world. The presence of the balloon had further strained an already tense U.S.-Chinese relationship, and a public downing of the vessel isn't likely to improve ties. Still, it will help Biden on the domestic political front, where he's facing calls, especially from Republicans, to be even tougher on Beijing. Throughout the week lawmakers had called on Biden to address the potential threat, with Sen. Jon Tester (D-Mont.), who chairs the panel that oversees the Pentagons budget, calling the balloon a clear threat to national security. On Saturday, Sen. Tim Scott (R-S.C.) said in a statement: "The balloon should have been shot down before it crossed the continental United States, not after. We still dont know what information was collected and where it was sent. This was a dereliction of Bidens duty, and lets hope the American people dont pay a price." Rep. Mike Rogers (R-Ala.), chairman of the House Armed Services Committee, said: "I applaud our servicemembers for completing a successful mission to neutralize a spy balloon sent by the Chinese Communist Party. I remain deeply concerned by the Biden administrations decision to allow the spy balloon to traverse the United States." Meanwhile, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer praised the president's actions. "I strongly condemn President Xis brazen incursion into American airspace, and I commend President Bidens leadership in taking down the Chinese balloon over water to ensure safety for all Americans. Now we can collect the equipment and analyze the technology used by the CCP." It's not the first time a Chinese spy balloon has entered U.S. air space, the Pentagon official said, noting at least three times during the previous administration and once at the beginning of this administration but never for this duration of time. "This was a PRC surveillance balloon," a senior administration official said. "This surveillance balloon purposely traversed the United States and Canada and we are confident it was seeking to monitor sensitive military sites. Its route over the United States near many potentially sensitive sites contradicts the PRC government explanation that it is a weather balloon." "This is not the only PRC surveillance balloon operating in the Western Hemisphere. A second balloon that was observed transiting Central and South America is another PRC surveillance balloon. In fact, these balloons are all part of a PRC fleet of balloons developed to conduct surveillance operations, which have also violated the sovereignty of other countries," the official added. News of the balloon led to a discussion among State Department and agency leaders inside the administration about whether to cancel Secretary of State Antony Blinken's planned visit to Beijing this weekend. Ultimately, the decision was made to postpone, not cancel, though it's not clear when Blinken will now go. Adam Cancryn, Oriana Pawlyk and Nahal Toosi contributed to this report. Flowers decorate a memorial for Dr. Thomas Meixner, professor and head of the Department of Hydrology and Atmospheric Sciences at the University of Arizona, in Tucson on Oct. 8, 2022. Meixner was fatally shot on campus Oct. 5. The University of Arizona has failed to implement an effective risk management system to assess and communicate threats to safety on campus, according to a faculty committee looking into the fatal shooting of a professor and other allegations of harassment and intimidation. The panel was formed by Faculty Chair Leila Hudson to look into Professor Thomas Meixner's death and the university's response to other high-profile conflicts. These failures, in lockstep with an institutionalized conscious disregard for known violence risks, has and will continue to have devastating consequences for the safety and security of the UArizona campus community, said the report, titled "Oversight and Response Failure: Broken Trust." Thomas Meixner, the head of the Hydrology and Atmospheric Sciences Department, was shot and killed Oct. 5 at the universitys Harshbarger Building. A former student, Dervish Murad, is accused in his death. The shooting occurred after almost a year of harassment and intimidating and threatening behavior not only geared toward Meixner but four other faculty members in the hydrology department, a female undergraduate student and a dean of students administrator, the report said. Meixner and the others who were targeted persistently contacted the dean of students, the Office of General Counsel, which provides legal counsel for the university for faculty and staff, and the University of Arizona Police Department to report the threats and harassment, the report said. The offices failed to address the harassment, focusing instead on how the evidence could violate law or policy, the report alleged. The subjects of the threats eventually took it upon themselves to protect their own lives by "purchasing a bullet-proof vest, relocating offices, temporarily changing residences, installing home security systems, possessing non-lethal weapons while on campus and keeping a loaded gun while at home, the report said. Members of the panel, called the General Faculty Committee on University Safety for All, conducted interviews with those who were subjected to threats and with community members. Story continues The committee found that in response to violence and harassment, the university failed to implement an effective system to monitor and evaluate risk. The report called the university's internal communication channels "ineffective." The universitys approach disregards employee and students safety concerns, the report said. Hudson, the faculty committee chair, said as an elected leader it was her "statutory responsibility" to convene the committee. A university spokesperson urged the community to wait for findings and recommendations from an outside consultant before coming to any conclusions. Other situations raise concerns The committee also looked into sexual harassment allegations in the universitys James E. Rogers College of Law between male law students and two female law students in 2019 and 2020. One female law student was harassed, while the second was raped, both by male law students, according to the allegations. The woman who was harassed when the perpetrator, a former romantic partner, stalked her and distributed lewd photos of her taken without her knowledge pursued legal action. She informed the university police as well as other university departments, according to the report. The lengthy review period for the incident allowed the man to continue to enroll in classes and harass her, the report said. After a group of law students met with President Robert Robbins to inform him about the culture of toxic masculinity" and to demand action, no action was taken because of federal and state laws that prevented the institution from acting, the report said. Another situation investigated by the committee involved a Black student who uses a wheelchair. The student had an encounter with the interim associate vice provost of diversity and inclusion that made the student feel uncomfortable. While the student tried to report the incident to the Office of Institutional Equity, the department informed her officials would not investigate the encounter and sent her to the Human Resources Department, which referred her back to the previous office. The administrator with whom the student had the encounter proceeded to submit a report to the universitys police department claiming the student was aggressive and weaponized her wheelchair, according to the report. A second interaction between the student, who is also the president of the Black Student Union, and the administrator, took place to discuss Black Student Union matters. However, the administrator refused to speak with her, and the interaction became contentious, the report said. After the student left, the administrator called university police and several police officers arrived at the building. The Black and Disabled Community members especially expressed experiences of over-policing and inappropriate responses from UAPD as well as feeling that they are unjustly profiled as threats to campus safety, the report states. The report also discussed the harassment of a student journalist after she wrote a story about a TikTok influencer who attended the university. The influencer was unhappy with her story and published her contact information. Institutional response to her safety concerns was minimal, the report said. Report: University has 'chronic trust problem' Flowers decorate a memorial for Dr. Thomas Meixner, professor and head of the Department of Hydrology and Atmospheric Sciences at the University of Arizona, in Tucson on Oct. 8, 2022. Meixner was fatally shot on campus Oct. 5. The committee concluded UA has a chronic trust problem with the university community, with many people doubting the competency and integrity of administrators. Many are skeptical about the universitys willingness to address safety issues, especially those involving marginalized communities. In addition, they say, victims fear retaliation and consequences if they speak out. The report also identified gaps in how the university addresses risks and violence. One is the failure to install a risk management system. The Committee identifies the lack of a central risk management system for violence risks as a glaring institutional failure whose consequences are both highly anticipated and catastrophic, the report said. Another is the universitys handling of safety concerns and enforcement. The report claimed that reporting violence and harassment on campus involves a complicated and fragmented process, made more confusing as multiple departments are involved. The report noted that the intricate maze of formal policies and websites to figure out how to report an incident, makes it challenging for victims to come forward. The complicated structure also makes it difficult for administrators and the reporting agencies to be willing to help, said the report. The burden of negotiating the reporting system can especially undermine the willingness to support fellow UA persons, the report said. This is particularly cumbersome for victims, when the receiving units express that they are unable or unwilling to help. According to the report, the university has a Threat Assessment Management Team to promote campus safety, but the committee found it is unfunded and relatively unknown to the university community. While Meixner and others were being harassed in the year leading up to the shooting, the threat assessment team concluded the shooter did not pose a threat but that the team would continue to monitor the situation, the report said. The committee's work is independent of an investigation commissioned by the university to look into campus safety and security and provide recommendations. That investigation is being led by the consultant Pax Group LLC. In an emailed statement about the report, university spokesperson Pam Scott said the university reviewed the report and said it was not "comprehensive and exhaustive." Scott said the report has reached "sweeping conclusions" based on "misleading characterizations and the selective use of facts and quotations." Scott urged the community to wait on the comprehensive report from PAX Group LLC. Hudson said, in a phone call with The Arizona Republic, I feel we have not only a statutory responsibility, an ethical responsibility to our community, but also a moral responsibility to Tom Meixner and his family." She noted that she chose the members of the committee based on their expertise in higher education policy, risk management and compliance, and community health. The university is a public institution, and there is "no time to lose" to have a public conversation about safety on campus, she said. As long as there isn't a concerted effort on the part of all university stakeholders to improve the risk management and threat assessment capacity of the institution, our community members continue to be at heightened and unmitigated risk, she said. The final committee report is expected to be published in May with input from the community and further recommendations. Find the interim report below. Email feedback, concerns and questions to Hudson directly. Coverage of southern Arizona on azcentral.com and in The Arizona Republic is funded by the nonprofit Report for America in association with The Republic. Reach the reporter at sarah.lapidus@gannett.com. This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: UA faculty report slams school's efforts to keep people safe Targeted culling of Missouri deer is underway in areas where new cases of chronic wasting disease were found following the latest deer harvests. The deer-hunting season wrapped up Jan. 15 with preliminary reporting from Missouri Department of Conservation showing a total of 299,721 deer killed. Chronic wasting disease is a deadly, infectious disease in deer and other cervids. The disease eventually kills all animals it infects. The disease spreads through improper disposal of deer carcasses and through the environment where a deer comes into contact with infectious material from another deer. Targeted culling is used as a 'disease management tool' A look at sampled lymph nodes during a mandatory CWD sampling station at Bolivar Fire Station No. 2 Nov. 13, 2022. Targeted culling within two miles of where the disease has been detected is conducted from Jan. 16 to March 15. MDC's Cervid Program Supervisor Jason Isabelle told the News-Leader earlier this week that around 29,400 samples with roughly 830 more to go have been tested this year, and, so far, 74 came back positive from 21 counties in Missouri. More:Final tally in Missouri's deer hunting season falls just short of 300,000 The targeted culling is done with landowners' permission either by themselves or by MDC staff. Some methods that are prohibited during deer-hunting season, including shooting over bait and shooting at night, are allowed during the targeted culling, Isabelle said. "Those methods allow for our culling efforts to be as effective and as efficient as possible." Deer that are culled are tested for the disease. If the wasting disease is not detected in the culled deer, the landowner has the first opportunity to keep the deer meat themselves or donate it to Share the Harvest. Positive deer are disposed of, Isabelle said. This past year, 3,000 deer were culled and 32 samples tested positive, with 86 total detected statewide. The previous three years saw: 21 CWD-positive out of 2,396 deer culled with 46 total detected statewide in 2019; 18 CWD-positive out of 2,692 deer culled with 44 total detected statewide in 2020; 32 CWD-positive out of 3,072 deer culled with 86 total detected statewide in 2021. Story continues "This is a disease management tool," Isabelle explained. "Targeted culling is a proven method of slowing the spread of CWD." More:Missouri deer hunters weigh in on efforts to curb spread of chronic wasting disease With targeted culling in those zones, fewer deer are interacting that may be infected with the disease and reducing the density of the population helps minimize the spread, he said. No cure, currently, to fight chronic wasting disease An emaciated Kansas deer suffering from CWD. There's no cure for chronic wasting disease. And Isabelle said that, since people may not see many emaciated deer, they may think there's nothing to worry about. "CWD has an extended incubation period in the deer, so if a deer has CWD, it's typically going to be a year-and-a-half to two years where it has the disease before it's going to start to show clinical symptoms," Isabelle said. More often, as the deer's brain starts deteriorating because of the disease, it may start wandering more, making it vulnerable to hunters, being hit by vehicles or killed by predators, which "elevates their mortality rate," Isabelle said. "Most of the deer that die with CWD are not dying of the actual disease itself because it predisposes them to die from other causes," Isabelle said. "If a deer happens to live long enough and nothing else kills the deer, then by the time it gets in the clinical stages, it starts to become emaciated (and) it starts with excessive salivation. It has its head lowered; its ears are lowered. It's wasting away." This article originally appeared on Springfield News-Leader: Deer culling underway in effort to 'slow the spread' of CWD This rendering shows an early vision of Fort Lauderdale-based developer Green Mills Group's concept for multi-family apartments at 225 and 419 Griffin Road -- dubbed Griffin Lofts. LAKELAND Fort Launderdale-based developer Green Mills Group hasn't quite put the finishing touches on one apartment complex and it's already set its sights on creating more housing in Lakeland. Oscar Sol, Green Mills' founder and principal, said there are plans to build 60 multi-family apartments at 225 and 419 Griffin Road. Sol said the $20.7 million development will be designed for those who formerly have been homeless or are at-risk of becoming homeless. "It will look just like market-rate housing, only some of the units will have supportive services," he said. Help for the Homeless:'Why do we need to wait': Talbot House's next director has a vision Lakeland's housing options:88 workforce apartments proposed forJewel Avenue neighborhood Affordable housing wanted:Tampa developer breaks ground on 88 apartments in Winter Haven The properties are on the north side of Griffen Road between U.S. 98 and North Florida Avenue. Green Mills' plans depict a four-story building at a proposed height of 53 feet. The building will contain a mix of 38 one-bedroom and 22 two-bedroom units. Sol said 12 of the apartments will be specifically designated for people making 40% or less of AMI, which is $16,555 for an individual or $23,625 for a family of four. There are 48 affordable apartments that will be rented to people making 60% of less of the AMI, which is $28,380 for an individual or $40,500 for a family of four based on the 2022 guidelines. "We've been pretty active in creating affordable and workforce housing in Lakeland," Sol said. Green Mills Group constructed and opened Aida Palms, a 96-unit affordable housing complex off Lakeland Hills Boulevard, in June 2017. Since then, it has built 80 apartments at Midtown Lofts and hopes to finish construction of Parker Pointe at 900 E. Bella Vista St. near Tigertown this summer. Unlike its prior housing complex, Sol said Green Mills intends to turn over ownership of Griffin Lofts to Carrfour Holding LLC. It's better known as the Miami-based nonprofit Carrfour Supportive Housing. Sol said the nonprofit will either have its own staff on site or work with local agencies to provide comprehensive, on-site programs to help the complex's future residents. Story continues "[Carrfour] has mostly worked in Miami but have been starting to branch out to Broward, Melbourne and now we're bringing them to Lakeland," Sol said. Lakeland commissioners will be asked to approve a brownfield designation for the housing site at Monday's commission meeting, which under state law would allow the developers to secure a tax refund on building supplies. The commission will meet 9 a.m. Monday at City Hall, 228 S. Massachusetts Ave. Sara-Megan Walsh can be reached at swalsh@theledger.com or 863-802-7545. Follow on Twitter @SaraWalshFl. This article originally appeared on The Ledger: North Lakeland townhomes planned for people at risk of homelessness COLOMBO, Feb. 4 (Xinhua) -- The Lanka Coal Company, incorporated to procure and supply coal for coal-fired thermal plants of Sri Lanka, on Saturday requested over 12 million U.S. dollars to buy coal for power plants. Chairman of the Lanka Coal Company Shehan Sumanasekara told media that he has asked the money from Minister of Power and Energy Kanchana Wijesekera. The Lanka Coal Company needs 2 million metric tons of coal annually, or 33 ship loads, to manage energy needs, he said. Earlier, Ceylon Electricity Board, the state-owned electricity producer, warned that without a continuous supply of coal, the country may face extended power cuts in the dry season. Sri Lanka has been experiencing daily power cuts since early 2022 due to foreign reserve shortages. About 45 percent of the country's electricity is generated by the thermal power, which relies on the import of fuel. TORONTO, ON - SEPTEMBER 10: Actor George R. Robertson attends the "Still" premiere during the 2012 Toronto International Film Festival at Winter Garden Theatre on September 10, 2012 in Toronto, Canada. (Photo by Jonathan Leibson/Getty Images) Jonathan Leibson/Getty George R. Robertson, a Canadian actor best known for playing the stuffy but hilarious Chief Henry J. Hurst in six Police Academy films, has died at the age of 89. The family confirmed his death at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre on Jan. 29 in an obituary. He was described as a "husband, father, grandfather, actor, writer, painter, [and] humanitarian" and family wrote that he "leaves a legacy of many accomplishments," many of which can be attributed to his lengthy career in movies and TV. Born in Brampton, Ontario on April 20, 1933, Robertson began his acting career on the theater stage before booking small roles in several TV series including The F.B.I., The Most Deadly Game and Cool Million. But it wasn't until he landed a role in the '80s classic Police Academy, alongside stars Steve Guttenberg, Kim Cattrall and the late Bubba Smith that he got his big break. The movie was a huge commercial success and led to five more sequels between 1985 and 1989. Editorial use only. No book cover usage. Mandatory Credit: Photo by Moviestore/Shutterstock (1612534a) Police Academy, G W Bailey, George Gaynes, George R Robertson Film and Television Moviestore/Shutterstock After the film franchise concluded, Robertson continued acting in several TV movies and TV series like The Path to 9/11, The Pentagon Papers and Sundays at Tiffany's. He also held a series regular role on CTV drama series E.N.G from 1989-1994. He took on acting roles up until 2017, with his last two credits being Crossfire in 2016 and Cradle to Grave in 2017. RELATED: Paying Tribute to the Celebrities Who Have Died in 2023 Robertson racked up about 80 acting credits throughout his career and was awarded the 1993 Margaret Collier Award by the Canadian Broadcast Corporation, according to his family. Despite his lengthy film career, his family noted that "his most important goals were achieved by helping others." They said following his stint as Chief Hurst in Police Academy, he used his role to speak to youth in high schools across Canada as a UNICEF ambassador a deed that eventually earned him the Danny Kaye UNICEF Canada award in 1990 for outstanding contribution. He also helped raise money for an orphanage in Chiang Mai, Thailand by walking 529 kilometers (more than 328 miles). Story continues Never miss a story sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from juicy celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. Robertson had been an athlete prior to becoming an actor, taking part in both hockey and football during high school, and his family said that in his later years, he turned to a different kind of art: painting and writing. He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Adele; two daughters, Sarah and Ellen; as well as several grandchildren. A memorial service will be held in March. PROVIDENCE With a boom, government leaders moved to limit gatherings as COVID infections began to climb and fears soared in March 2020 during the onset of the pandemic. Colleges and universities moved classes online and closed campuses to sports activities and other gatherings. In the months that followed, students nationwide brought lawsuits against colleges and universities, seeking refunds of tuition and fees and accusing the schools of breaching their contractual obligations to provide in-person learning and other amenities. In Rhode Island, Johnson & Wales University, the University of Rhode Island, Brown University and Roger Williams University were all hit with lawsuits in federal court alleging that the schools had breached their contracts with students. And this week, the last of those cases was extinguished at least in U.S. District Court where Chief Judge John J. McConnell Jr. struck down efforts by URI students to recoup fees they had paid for activities, transportation and other services. More:Why URI students are in the middle of Narragansett's 'neighbor against neighbor' legal fight In a 26-page ruling, McConnell accepted URIs reasoning that even if it had breached its contract with students, the terms would have been nullified by the doctrines of impossibility and frustration. In other words, the pandemic made compliance essentially impossible due to unforeseen circumstances, namely the worldwide shutdown. The use of facilities such as Memorial Union and URIs fitness center as gathering places was prohibited by government orders imposed early in the public-health crisis. As such, the schools contract with its students was substantially frustrated by factors outside its control, the judge said. Likewise, McConnell rejected the students arguments that the school had been unjustly enriched during the lockdown. [The students] claimed that they paid for in-person services but were only provided with lesser quality virtual services. But the record shows that URI used the funds from the remaining fees (the Memorial Union and Fitness and Wellness Center Fees) to provide virtual services such as workout classes and entertainment to students, McConnell said. Story continues An entrance sign on the URI campus in Kingston. The judge noted that URI had dedicated fees for activities to paying for URI alum and magician Mat Franco to perform virtually for the students, as well as for appearances by actor Will Ferrell and writer, director and comedian Judd Apatow, known for such hit movies as "The 40-Year-Old Virgin," "Knocked Up" and "The King of Staten Island" and the television show "Freaks and Geeks." Before the COVID-19 pandemic, it would not have been unthinkable to have any random few guests (e.g., not a graduation speaker or guest of other such magnitude) appear virtually for various reasons such as scheduling. Because it still provided similar services, URIs discretionary use of these funds was therefore reasonable, the court said. The students had argued that the fees should have been put toward services the students could have enjoyed in person throughout the semester. McConnells latest ruling follows his earlier dismissal of the students bid to have their tuition refunded from URIs spring 2020 semester. It puts the case to bed unless the students appeal. More:3 college seniors say COVID reshaped their lives, made them focus on what they really want McConnell also struck down breach of contract claims regarding tuition against Brown, Johnson & Wales and Roger Williams universities. The students in the Brown case appealed and reached a $1.5-million class-action settlement with the university that McConnell approved last month. This settlement is an exceptional result. The settlement provides automatic and certain compensation for thousands of students enrolled at Brown during the spring 2020 semester, the lawyers representing the students wrote. The students who brought claims against Johnson & Wales and Roger Williams universities did not appeal McConnells ruling. After careful review, the court dismissed the claims for tuition refunds, stating that 'no plausible reading of the university materials give rise to enforceable contractual promises,' a spokesperson for Johnson & Wales said in an email. This article originally appeared on The Providence Journal: Judge dismisses students' COVID claims against University of RI Dotdash Meredith and Yahoo Inc. may earn commission or revenue on some items through the links below. Did I mention its nearly half off right now? Real Simple / Pamela Jew At the beginning of January, I moved to a ski town in Utah for the winter season, craving snow and the great outdoors. But as a Floridian whos lived in Hawaii too, Im a certified cold wimp, and my wardrobe was simply not cutting it. While I lived most of the day in my ski gear so that I could hit the slopes after work, I started looking for warm yet functional loungewearwhat Id change into at the end of the day. I scoured Huckberry, preferring the Austin-based retailer for its tough yet stylish independent brands, and discovered my holy grail: the Proof Trail Fleece Pullover, available for a whopping 45 percent off. Retro-inspired fleeces definitely make my heart a-flutter, and this colorblocked version was no exception. The price point added to my crush. The jacket was available in Charcoal and Natural (a brownish gray and cream combination) or Charcoal and Olive (brownish gray and green.) I chose the former, appreciating its overall neutral vibe paired with a bright blue accent zipper and collar lining. Huckberry To buy: $81 (was $148); huckberry.com. When the fleece arrived at my home, it was perhaps 10 degrees Fahrenheit outside and I was tired of the sweatshirt and sweater rotation Id managed to stuff into one of three checked bags. My hoodies were raggedy, and I didnt want to have to dry clean or hand wash anymore. The outside of the jacket was soft to the touch and much thicker than Id expected from the product photo Id seen online. As in, I immediately just wanted to cuddle with it, or maybe use it as a pillow. Then I slipped it on. While the material itself is well-insulated, the inside of the jacketmost specifically behind the large front pocketwas lined, meaning that it didnt feel too warm. While I was a little disappointed at first because I love a comfy, shearling-type lining in my winter wear, the choice actually made the jacket more versatile. I could wear it outdoors, but then come inside to a roaring fire or cranked up heat and not overheat or be uncomfortable. When Im on the go, that flexibility is necessary, and it makes the jacket more likely to be a pick of mine in other seasons, too. Story continues : The color-blocked design is a nostalgic nod to the most iconic of outdoor gear, but the colorway itself means it goes with everything I wear when the temperatures drop below freezing. I just love it. I wear it practically nonstop (even while sleeping), and it feels remarkably homey, like one of those well-loved pieces Ill still pull out in ten years with plenty of memories attached. Post-wash, it still feels just as cozyno mourning the loss of a new sweatshirt feeling. Based on its versatility, fashionable design, and cuddly insulation, I just know Ill wear this fleece jacket during the fall, winter, spring, and yes, even summer. Bundle up with the Proof Trail Fleece Pullover for almost half off at Huckberry. More Must-Shop Deals For more Real Simple news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter! Read the original article on Real Simple. FRANKFURT (Reuters) - Lufthansa and Air France-KLM are circling collapsed UK regional airline Flybe to try to obtain its take-off and landing slots at London's Heathrow Airport, Britain's Telegraph newspaper reported on Saturday. Lufthansa and Air France-KLM declined to comment. The Telegraph said the two airlines were in talks with the administrators of Flybe, which a week ago ceased trading and went into insolvency for the second time in three years, with all flights cancelled and 276 workers made redundant. Administrators from Interpath Advisory may have just days to agree to a rescue that would avoid the business being wound up, the newspaper said, citing sources in London's financial community. Lufthansa and Air France-KLM are interested in Flybe's seven pairs of take-off and landing slots at Heathrow and five pairs at Amsterdam's Schiphol airport, the report said. Suitors would need to take on many of the bankrupt airlines liabilities as well as the potentially lucrative assets, it quoted one source as saying. If a buyer for Flybe cannot be found it is likely that the slots would be returned to a central pool run by the airports coordinator, it said. (Reporting by Ilona Wissenbach; and Camille Raynaud; Writing by Vera Eckert; Editing by Mark Potter) Melinda Dillon, the actress best known for her portrayal of a harried but loving mother in the holiday classic A Christmas Story, died Jan. 9 at 83, according to a death notice. Though most recognizable from that perennial favorite, Dillon was also an Oscar-nominated acting talent, earning nods for Close Encounters of the Third Kind and Absence of Malice. Steven Spielberg hired Dillon for Close Encounters on the advice of fellow filmmaker Hal Ashby shortly before shooting. She played Jillian Guiler, a single mom who goes in search of her 3-year-old son with her neighbor, Roy Neary (Richard Dreyfuss), after the child is abducted by aliens. Melinda Dillon and Cary Guffey in 'Close Encounters of the Third Kind' Everett Collection Melinda Dillon and Cary Guffey in 'Close Encounters of the Third Kind' In Absence of Malice, Dillon acted opposite Sally Field and Paul Newman (with whom she also shared a love scene in Slap Shot) as a sheltered Catholic woman who is driven to suicide when Field's journalist character publishes a story about her abortion. Her other notable films included Bound for Glory, Harry and the Hendersons, How to Make an American Quilt, The Prince of Tides, Magnolia, and The Muppet Movie. Dillon gained early attention and a Tony nomination for her Broadway debut as meek housewife Honey in the original 1963 production of Edward Albee's Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf? Her experience in the play was so taxing that she left after nine months to spend time in a psychiatric hospital. "I was in Virginia Woolf, and I just went crazy," she once told The New York Times. "It was really that simple." Melinda Dillon in 'Harry and the Hendersons' Universal/Everett Melinda Dillon in 'Harry and the Hendersons' Born Oct. 13, 1939, in Hope, Ark., Dillon spent much of her childhood in Alabama. She moved, with her mother and stepfather, to several military bases, even spending several years in Germany. Dillon attended high school in Chicago before studying at the Goodman School of Drama, now housed at DePaul University. Dillon began her career in improv, working at Chicago's legendary Second City. She was a hat check girl at the theater until an illness in the cast led her to go on one night. Story continues After Virginia Woolf, Dillon continued to work in theater, including 1967's You Know I Can't Hear You When the Water's Running and 1970's Paul Sills' Story Theatre. She first attracted attention on screen for her role in the 1959 short film The Cry of Jazz, about jazz music and Black culture, and she made her feature film debut in 1969's The April Fools, opposite Jack Lemmon. In 1976, she broke out as Memphis Sue, wife of David Carradine's Woody Guthrie in the biopic Bound for Glory. The role earned her a Golden Globes nomination for Best Female Acting Debut. After her Oscar-nominated turns in Close Encounters and Absence of Malice, Dillon took on what would become her signature role in 1983's A Christmas Story. She played Mrs. Parker, a housewife who must contend with her husband's grousing as well as her son Ralphie (Peter Billingsley) and his desire to receive a BB gun for Christmas. Maya Rudolph, who portrayed Mrs. Parker in Fox's 2017 live musical rendition of A Christmas Story, sang Dillon's praises to EW ahead of the show. "I love Melinda Dillon in the movie so much," she said. "I didn't expect to ever play her part in the musical, but she really shines for me in that movie. She's just wonderfully warm and a little bit her own odd, quirky mother that's not a normal mother but is a normal mother." Melinda Dillon in 'A Christmas Story' Everett Collection Melinda Dillon in 'A Christmas Story' Dillon retired from acting in 2007, and as a result she did not reprise her role as Mrs. Parker in 2022's A Christmas Story Christmas. Julie Hagerty stepped into the part. "Melinda, as you say, has retired from acting and wished us the best in our pursuits," Billingsley told EW. "I had spoken to her about this." Prior to her retirement, Dillon also worked in television, appearing on such shows as Law and Order: SVU, The Jeffersons, Picket Fences, Bonanza, Judging Amy, and Heartland. Dillon was married to actor Richard Libertini from 1963 until their divorce in 1978, and they shared a son, also named Richard. Libertini died in 2016, at 82. Related content: .The United States and Canada have three kinds of swans, each with a defining attribute. Trumpeter swans are the largest; tundra swans fly the farthest; mute swans are the most aggressive. Of course, each has other characteristics that make them distinctive. Besides being the worlds largest species of waterfowl, the trumpeter swan is a U.S. native with a remarkable recovery record. In 2015 the estimated population size exceeded 60,000. Compare that to the total of 69 individual trumpeter swans known to be alive in the United States in 1932. What caused the near extinction of this species? Inadequate wildlife regulations that resulted in overharvesting for the ornamental feathers trade. Hans Christian Andersens fairy tale was actually based on mute swans, but baby trumpeter swans (cygnets) are the paragon of the fabled ugly duckling in being a mousey gray color. Whereas the adults, with their snowy white plumage and large black bills, are magnificent creatures. Trumpeters get their name from their deep, resonant two-note call. Most tundra swans fly from Canada to spend winter in North Carolina wetlands. [Photo courtesy Trip Lamb] Tundra swans belong as much to Canada as to us and are the most abundant of the three North American species. They live up to the name tundra by breeding in arctic and subarctic regions; they migrate south in winter. In the eastern half of the country, the majority of tundra swans fly to wetlands in North Carolina, the numbers reportedly totaling as high as 75,000 in some years. These snow-white birds are also known as whistling swans because of the sound their wings make when a flock flies overhead. In one sense, the last species of U.S. swan doesnt belong here, but more people have seen mute swans than either trumpeter or tundra swans. If you see a huge white bird swimming in a private pond or municipal lake, it is probably a mute swan. This swan is readily recognizable by its orange bill and the black knob between and slightly below its eyes. The species was brought to this country from Europe in the 1800s. Wild populations now occur in many areas and mute swans have developed breeding populations in various parts of the United States. Wild mute swans, such as those in city parks, often become semidomesticated. They are thought to have been domesticated in Europe in the 12th century. More than 20,000 are estimated to be in North America, a low population density compared with the 500,000 living in Europe. Story continues Mute swans are beautiful to watch as they glide gracefully across the water but are a force to be reckoned with during breeding season. They have been known to turn over kayaks and canoes, continuing to attack the boater in the water. Human deaths have even been reported when victims drowned. A dog had best beware of an attack by a mute swan, as it might be killed by an enraged mother. The mute swan is not silent at all, making a variety of bland sounds, although the hissing of an angry swan is anything but pleasant. More:Frogs and toads have special traits | ECOVIEWS Whether you want to toss birdseed to swans in a city lake, travel to a wildlife refuge to see migratory waterfowl or just enjoy watching geese pass high overhead in a perfect V, you should be aware of this outstanding nature book: "Ducks, Geese, and Swans of North America." It does it all complete species accounts that include information on identification, geographic distribution, migration, ecology, behavior and reproduction. The Wildlife Management Institute sponsored the book, which was written by Guy Baldassarre and published by Johns Hopkins University Press. It is the most comprehensive overview ever written on waterfowl that fly the skies anywhere between Mexico and Canada. This scientifically accurate, superbly written account covers all 46 U.S. species in the three bird groups. All of these impressive waterfowl ducks, geese and swans are wildlife marvels whether they are flying or swimming. Just remember if its a big white bird with an orange bill and black knob below the eyes, you want to keep your distance. Whit Gibbons Whit Gibbons is professor of zoology and senior biologist at the University of Georgias Savannah River Ecology Laboratory. If you have an environmental question or comment, email ecoviews@gmail.com. This article originally appeared on The Tuscaloosa News: North America has three types of swans | ECOVIEWS Marion County Board of Elections Deputy Director Brian Blair processes candidate petitions on Wednesday, Feb. 1, 2023, at the board office in the Marion County Building. Feb. 1 was the deadline for partisan candidates to file petitions for the May 2 primary/special election. The board will certify those petitions on during a meeting at 5 p.m. on Feb. 13 in the Prospect Room on the lower level of the Marion County Building, 222 W. Center St. in downtown Marion. The public is invited to attend the meeting. Republican Party candidates for mayor of the City of Marion and two Marion City Council seats will face competition in the May 2 primary/special election. Pending the certification of all candidate petitions by the Marion County Board of Elections, GOP mayoral candidates Bill Collins and Sue McGowan will vie for the party nomination in the primary election to see who will face Democratic Party candidate Glenn D. Coble in the Nov. 7 general election. Collins is the former chief of the Marion Police Department and now serves as chief deputy of the Marion County Sheriff's Office. McGowan ran for mayor as an independent in 2019 against incumbent Mayor Scott Schertzer, a Democrat, and Republican Kevin Norris. Coble ran for the 86th District seat in the Ohio House of Representatives in 2018 and ran for Marion Township Trustee in 2013. The winner in November will succeed Schertzer, who has chosen not to seek a fifth term as mayor. His term expires Dec. 31, 2023. Republican Councilman Jason Schaber, 3rd Ward, is facing a challenge from fellow ward resident Carie Fuller in the May 2 primary election. The winner will face Democratic Party candidate William Moodie in the general election. In the 4th Ward city council race, incumbent Joshua Feliciano is being challenged by fellow Republican Twila Laing. Democratic Party candidate Dana Hanif Booker is running without opposition in the primary election. Feliciano defeated Hanif Booker in the 2021 general election to win a second term on city council. Councilman Ayers Ratliff, a Democrat, is running unopposed in the 2nd Ward primary election race, but will see opposition from Republican Pamela K. Larkin in the Nov. 7 general election. Ratliff and Larkin met in the 2021 general election with Ratliff winning reelection to a seat he's held since 2005. There will be new faces in the Marion City Council president's chair as well as the 1st Ward, 5th Ward, and 6th Ward seats on council. Council President Todd Schneider, a Democrat, did not file a petition seeking reelection. Republican Mary Stoneburner, a local conservative activist, is the lone candidate to file a petition for city council president. An independent could still file to run for the office since the deadline for unaffiliated candidates to file petitions is May 1. Story continues Councilman Jeff Gerritsen, 1st Ward, did not file a petition. He was appointed to the seat after former Councilman Kai Meade resigned last July. Republican Shawn Barr is the sole candidate to file a petition seeking election to the 1st Ward seat on city council at this point. Councilwoman Karen Fosnaugh, 5th Ward, did not file a petition seeking reelection. The Republican was appointed to the office in August 2020 following the resignation of Leslie Cunningham. Fosnaugh won the 2021 general election to keep the seat for a full term that ends this year. Democrat Cory Brown and Republican Thaddaeus Smith have filed petitions for the office. Neither is facing opposition in the primary election. Councilman Mike Neff, a Republican, was not able to run for reelection to the 6th Ward seat on city council after redistricting led to his address being transferred to the 5th Ward. Neff has filed to run for an at-large seat on city council. Democrat Bart Wolfe and Republican Ronald Prater have filed petitions seeking to replace Neff as the 6th Ward council representative. Neff joins incumbents Brett Cornelius and Aaron Rollins as candidates for the three at-large seats on Marion City Council. Like Neff, Cornelius and Rollins are both Republicans. At-large Councilman Mike Thomas, a Democrat, did not file a petition seeking reelection to city council. No Democrats filed petitions to run for at-large city council seats. Marion Municipal Court Judge Teresa L. Ballinger, a Republican, is running without opposition in the primary. No other candidates have filed petitions seeking to run for judge at this point in time. Law Director Mark Russell, a Democrat, is also running unopposed in the May 2 primary election. No other candidates have filed petitions to run for that office, either. The Marion County Board of Elections will meet at 5 p.m. on Monday, Feb. 13 to certify all partisan candidates' petitions and local option petitions. The meeting will be conducted in the Prospect Room located on the lower level of the Marion County Building, 222 W. Center St. in downtown Marion. Protests against partisan candidate petitions and local option petitions must be filed with the board of elections by 4 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 17. Write-in candidates for the May 2 primary/special election must file declarations of intent with the board of elections by 4 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 21. Protests against write-in candidates must be filed by 4 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 24. As mentioned, people seeking to run as independents this year have until May 1 to file petitions with the Marion County Board of Elections. Email: ecarter@gannett.com | Twitter: @AndrewACCarter This article originally appeared on Marion Star: Primary election field for 2023 taking shape in Marion County Judging by the long line of readers down the block outside a small Ohio bookstore, youd never guess that fantasy author Chelsea Bannings first book-signing event flopped nearly two months ago. The successful multiauthor's signing event on Jan. 28 Bannings second since promoting her trilogys first novel, Of Crowns and Legends, at Ashtabulas Pretty Good Books in December told an entirely different story. We have no official count, but there were hundreds (of people), Pretty Good Books co-owner Joe Zinski told USA TODAY. Not only was it the biggest event we've ever hosted, but I'm fairly confident it's the biggest event Main Avenue (in) Ashtabula has seen in a long time. Pretty Good Books in Ashtabula, Ohio, was packed with readers on Jan. 28 as it hosted around 20 writers, including "Of Crowns and Legends" author Chelsea Banning, at a book-signing event. Banning, who released the first in her trilogy in August, went viral last year following her bummed-out tweet about her first signings low turnout. Only two of the 37 people who had RSVPd online showed up, she said. Thanks to the exposure stemming from the support of famous authors such as Stephen King, who also encouraged people to attend her latest signing, it was a sellout event this time around. A HAPPY ENDING: Dozens of people said they would go to her book signing they didn't. Thousands of strangers made sure that wasn't the end of the story. HELPING OTHERS: A Maine barber knows struggle. It's why the great-grandmother offers free cuts to those who can't pay. A lot of the other authors (also) sold out of books, and some said it was their best day of sales ever, said Banning, who invited about 20 writers to share the spotlight with her. It was a great day for everyone. Throughout the afternoon, hundreds filtered in and out of the cozy bookstore to meet authors including the group Ashtabula Writers of Fantastic and Uncanny Literature, Genevieve Gornichec and Caytlyn Brooke. Ohio author Chelsea Banning got a visit from people dressed as characters of her book, "Of Crowns and Legends," at the book's second signing event held on Jan. 28 in Ashtabula, Ohio. David Jackson, who goes by Caged Bishop Cosplay, attended the event as Sir Jabir. "It was a really amazing thing for her to bring the authors and us along with her in this whole journey," Pretty Good Books co-owner Sarah Zinski said. Story continues While King didn't show up "like everyone had hoped," Banning said, readers from as far away as Florida, Kansas and Colorado made the trip to support the authors. A BIG MAHALO: A stranded elderly couple in Hawaii had no spare tire nor cell service. 'A guardian angel' saved the day. GOOD NEWS: Watch this guy's birthday wish come true right after he blew out his candles Some fans of Banning even dressed up as her book's characters an authors dream, she said. Since first going viral in early December, the independent authors novel reached the top of Amazons bestselling Arthurian fantasy list and into the top 10 of its historical fiction novels, Banning shared. The co-owners of Pretty Good Books estimate that a few hundred people showed up to meet authors, including fantasy writer Chelsea Banning, at a book-signing event on Jan. 28. Following the success of her second book signing, the author has a handful of upcoming appearances planned, including Aprils Grand Rapids ComicCon in Kalamazoo, Michigan, with other debut authors. On Wednesday, she tweeted an update that she sold 8,300 books last year thanks to the outpouring of support after her tweet of disappointment. I never would have expected this to happen at all, Banning told USA TODAY. I guess it goes to show that social media has definitely changed, where people really want to see real people and vulnerability, and to relate and to be human with each other. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Fantasy author Chelsea Banning's book signings are sellouts: Good news ISLAMABAD, Feb. 4 (Xinhua) -- Pakistani police arrested four terrorists in the country's northwest Swabi district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) province, a senior police official said on Saturday. Police personnel conducted a raid on the terrorists' hideout after the police were tipped off about their presence in the district, and four terrorists belonging to a banned outfit were arrested during the operation, District Police Officer Swabi Najam al Hasnain told media. During the raid, a cache of explosive material, hand grenades, detonators, arms and ammunition were recovered from the possession of the arrested terrorists, said the official. He added that the arrested terrorists were planning to launch attacks on security forces and sensitive installations in the province. The militants were shifted to an undisclosed location for further interrogation shortly after their arrest. A Republican-backed bill seeks to rename part of a Tennessee street dedicated to Rep. John Lewis (D-Ga.), the late civil rights leader, in order to honor former President Donald Trump. The bill, sponsored by Tennessee state Rep. Paul Sherrell (R) and state Sen. Frank Niceley (R), would rename a portion of Nashvilles Fifth Avenue that had been named after Lewis. The section is between James Robertson Parkway and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard. The legislation, which calls for the stretch to be called President Donald Trump Boulevard, comes less than three years after Trump insisted that he hardly knew who Lewis was and that he couldnt say one way or the other if he found him impressive. Lewis lunch counter sit-ins occurred along Fifth Avenue during the civil rights movement, The Tennessean noted, and Nashvilles Metro Council renamed part of the street to recognize him following his death in 2020. The change could give Tennessees state legislative office building a President Donald Trump Boulevard address, according to the newspaper. Metro Council member Zulfat Suara (D), a mother and community organizer, questioned what her state has become in a tweet about the bill on Thursday. This is not how to govern. This is ridiculous. We are going to fight this. #GoodTrouble, wrote Suara, quoting Lewis famous words on activism, and she noted the cruel timing of the bill as Black History Month begins. OMG. I have to take a deep breath so as not to swear! What have this state become! Do some just wake up and propose the next thing that comes to mind. This is not how to govern. This is ridiculous. We are going to fight this. #GoodTroublepic.twitter.com/CJrYcTkYy8 Councilwoman Zulfat Suara (@zulfat4council) February 3, 2023 Tennessee state Rep. Justin Jones (D) also criticized the proposed renaming and wrote on Twitter that the bill was about more than a street name. Story continues Its yet another white supremacist attack on Black history, Jones wrote. Its spitting on the grave of our ancestor. Its memorializing hate. Best believe, well fight back. Tennessee Republicans bill to change parts of John Lewis Way to Donald Trump Blvd is about more than a street name. Its yet another white supremacist attack on Black history. Its spitting on the grave of our ancestor. Its memorializing hate. Best believe, well fight back. Rep. Justin Jones (@brotherjones_) February 3, 2023 The bill could also remove streets from the list of things that can be protected as memorials under Tennessee law, according to WKRN-TV. HuffPost has reached out to Sherrell and Niceley for comment. Related... Neutrals are forever. Mary Patton Design While were still not convinced that youre ever really finished decorating your home, there are some things that you hope to be a one-and-done. Namely, your kitchen cabinets. If youre going the paint route here, a timeless color that will last you a lifetime is the way to go. That way, you might need a touch-up here and there to account for paint chips from daily wear and tear, but you wont have to worry about your cabinets looking dreadfully outdated in just a decade. Future-minded homeowners are in luck, because weve gathered a selection of top Southern designers picks for colors that will never go out of fashion. To make sure that the look of your cabinets will age well, designers recommend avoiding yellowy whites, sage greens, bright colors, or even graysall of which they say are either outdated or on their way out. Instead, these designers are all for well-loved neutrals and neutral-adjacent deep color tones. Paint colors are hard to categorize as they each have a different personality of their own depending on the situation they were chosen for, explain Vy Truong and Han Dang, the co-founders and principal designers of Very Handsome Studio in Houston, Texas. However, without fail, it seems that neutrals will never go out of style. Stick to these timeless shades for kitchen cabinets that you can rely on staying stylish. Bright White Heidi Harris Photography; Design by Morse Design Light and white kitchens are timeless. They are here forever, says Andi Morse, of Morse Design in Atlanta, Georgia. If you go back in time you will see that white kitchens existed in the 1920s, 1950s, and up to now. Colorful kitchens are all the rage right now. We love it as much as the next person, but keep that color off your cabinets for the sake of longevity. Build in color elsewhere using elements that are less commitment, like displayable decor, rugs, and details. Your white cabinets certainly wont clashnor will they if you ever decide to change the kitchen decor color scheme however many years from now. White cabinets have seen us through our stark-white kitchen phase, theyre currently supporting us amidst the color craze, and theyll be just as reliable for all the kitchen trends to come. Story continues When it comes to picking the right paint, our designers have some strong opinions. Most important though, is making sure you choose a bright white rather than one with yellow tones. Mary Patton of Mary Patton Design in Houston, Texas says that Farrow & Balls All White is her go-to, while Morse loves Benjamin Moores Decorators White. Decorators White looks good in almost every space, Morse raves. It's a bright white that can go a bit gray depending on the light. The gray tint prevents the white from looking yellow which will date a white paint choice. Cool Off-White Laurey W. Glenn If bright white isnt for you or your kitchen, designers encourage an off-white approach. However, the rule about avoiding yellowed shades still applies. Choose something natural with cool undercurrents like Sherwin Williams Eider White, the color of choice for Very Handsome Studios designers. Black Molly Culver; Design by Mary Patton Design On the opposite end of the spectrum from the light and bright paints, but still maintaining a neutral palette, designers cant get enough of black cabinets. We always consider first a beautiful black tone, Truong and Dang tell us. If you seek a moody interior and are opposed to light colors, black is the recommended route for your cabinets as opposed to a vibrant jewel tone that can quickly fade out of style. There's also a movement towards forced vintage, where new is made to look old on purpose for aesthetic value. Deep jewel tones are often chosen to enforce these aesthetics, Truong and Dang say. Though beautifully designed and thoughtful in theory, things done in excess tend to age poorly with time. Go for black instead. Brittany Farinas, CEO and creative director of House of One in Miami, Florida turns towards black paint when she wants to create a bold look for the kitchen. Its a sleek and powerful color that you dont have to worry about fading into obscurity over time. Navy Blue Laurey W. Glenn If you do insist on a touch of color, these designers beg of you to consider a sophisticated, deep shadesomething so dark as a navy blue paint that it sits at the intersection of colorful and neutral. Its not quite black, but has a similarly elevated effect. I think black and a dark navy are never going away and remain timeless over the years, Morse reveals. Her pick for navy paint is Benjamin Moores Hale Navy. Army Green Laurey W. Glenn Another road less taken to the cross-section of colorful and neutral is army green. Though Patton is firm in her belief that some of this shades brighter tones like sage are due for a renaissance (Its been so done: It's time for something else.), darker army green is here to stay. Darker shades of classic colors like navy blues or army greens help to effortlessly bring elegance and age to a space, Truong and Dang say, recommending Farrow & Ball's Treron. Meanwhile, Rosemary by Sherwin Williams is Farinass army green of choice. For more Southern Living news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter! Read the original article on Southern Living. By Jonathan Spicer ISTANBUL (Reuters) -The United States warned Turkey in recent days about the export to Russia of chemicals, microchips and other products that can be used in Moscow's war effort in Ukraine, and it could move to punish Turkish companies or banks contravening sanctions. Brian Nelson, the U.S. Treasury Department's top sanctions official, visited Turkish government and private sector officials on Thursday and Friday to urge more cooperation in disrupting the flow of such goods. In a speech to bankers, Nelson said a marked year-long rise in exports to Russia leaves Turkish entities "particularly vulnerable to reputational and sanctions risks", or lost access to G7 markets. They should "take extra precaution to avoid transactions related to potential dual-use technology transfers that could be used by the Russian military-industrial complex," he said in a copy of the speech issued by the Treasury. In the meetings in Ankara and Istanbul, Nelson and a delegation highlighted tens of millions of dollars of exports to Russia that raised concerns, according to a senior U.S. official who requested anonymity. "There is no surprise...that Russia is actively looking to leverage the historic economic ties it has in Turkey," the official said. "The question is what is the Turkish response going to be." NATO member Ankara opposes the sweeping sanctions on Russia on principle but says they will not be circumvented in Turkey, urging the West to provide any evidence. Western nations applied the export controls and sanctions after Moscow's invasion nearly a year ago. Yet supply channels have remained open from Hong Kong, Turkey and other trading hubs. Citing Russian customs records, Reuters reported in December that at least $2.6 billion of computer and other electronic components flowed into Russia in the seven months to Oct. 31. At least $777 million of these products were made by Western firms whose chips have been found in Russian weapons systems. Story continues PRESSURE Ankara has balanced its good ties with both Moscow and Kyiv throughout the war, held early talks between the sides and also helped broker a deal for grain shipments from Ukraine. The trip by Nelson, the Treasury's undersecretary for terrorism and financial intelligence, is the latest to Turkey by senior U.S. officials aiming to ramp up pressure on Ankara to ensure enforcement of U.S. curbs on Russia. The pressure has brought some changes. Turkey's largest ground-service provider, Havas, told Russian and Belarusian airlines it may stop providing parts, fuel and other services to their U.S.-origin aircraft, in line with Western bans, Reuters reported on Friday citing a Jan. 31 letter from the company. In September, five Turkish banks suspended use of the Russian Mir payment system after the U.S. Treasury targeted the head of the system's operator with new sanctions and warned those helping Moscow against skirting them. Nelson urged the Turkish bankers to conduct enhanced due diligence on Russian-related transactions, and noted in the speech that Russian oligarchs continue to buy property and dock yachts in Turkey. In separate talks with Turkish firms, Nelson "urgently" flagged the way Russia is believed to be dodging Western controls to re-supply plastics, rubber and semi-conductors found in exported goods and used by the military, the official said. The person added that after taking steps last year to press Russia to end the war, the U.S. focus is now "on evasion and particularly evasion in third countries that we are seeing". Nelson delivered similar messages in the United Arab Emirates and Oman this week, the Treasury said. (Reporting by Jonathan SpicerEditing by Frances Kerry) Buddy Holly, Waylon Jennings Michael Ochs Archives/Getty; Beth Gwinn/Getty Buddy Holly, Waylon Jennings In the 1971 classic "American Pie," Don McLean wrote about "The Day the Music Died" a.k.a. Feb. 3, 1959, when Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens and "The Big Bopper" J.P. Richardson were famously killed in a plane crash during a United States concert tour. Five decades later, the tragedy was explored in a July 2022 episode of iHeartRadio's Too Much Information podcast, where hosts Jordan Runtagh and Alex Heigl break down McLean's hit song and discuss the events leading up to the plane crash. Long before boarding the plane, Holly famous for songs like "That'll Be the Day" and "Peggy Sue" was performing shows throughout the Midwest on the Winter Dance Party tour alongside Valens, Richardson, Dion and the Belmonts as well as Frankie Sardo. The musicians referred to the shows as "the tour from hell," as they had to travel hundreds of miles each day and move all their own equipment in temperatures as low as -35 degrees Fahrenheit, per the podcast. Ritchie Valens, The Big Bopper Richard C. Miller/Donaldson Collection/Getty; Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Ritchie Valens, "The Big Bopper" J.P. Richardson Weather conditions caused one performer to be hospitalized for frostbite, and many others came down with the flu. Holly was in a terrible mood in the hours leading up to a Feb. 2 concert in Clear Lake, Iowa which would unknowingly be his last performance. After the show, he decided to avoid the cold and rent a private plane to fly himself and some of the musicians to their next gig in Fargo, North Dakota. According to TMI, Holly planned to bring his band members, Jennings and Tommy Allsup, on the three-passenger plane. However, it's believed that Allsup was challenged to a coin toss by Valens, who ended up winning his seat on the ill-fated flight. Jennings also gave up his seat to Richardson, who'd gotten the flu and wanted to see a doctor before the next performance. Story continues RELATED: Celebrities Who Died in Plane and Helicopter Crashes Supposedly, after hearing about the seat switch, Holly told Jennings, "Well, I hope your ol' bus freezes up." In an eerie response that allegedly haunted Jennings until his death in 2002, he replied, "Well, I hope your ol' plane crashes." The flight took off at 12:55 a.m. on Feb. 3 and crashed into a cornfield about five minutes later, with the cause believed to be a weather-induced error on 21-year-old pilot Roger Peterson's part. He wasn't trained to fly in such poor conditions, which led to the crash that killed Holly at 22, Valens at 17 and Richardson at 28. The wreckage of the plane crash that killed rock stars Buddy Holly (Charles Hardin Holley), Ritchie Valens (Richard Steven Valenzuela), and The Big Bopper (Jiles Perry Richardson, Jr.) On February 3, 1959 outside of Clearlake, Iowa. Michael Ochs Archives/Getty "The Day the Music Died" In the aftermath, Holly's wife Maria learned about his death on television and later suffered a miscarriage due to "psychological trauma," per the podcast. Similarly, his mother learned of his death while listening to the radio. The tragedy allegedly caused authorities to instate protocols requiring names of the deceased to be concealed from the public until family has been notified. McLean, 77, wrote an essay for CNN about "American Pie" in 2009, noting that his appreciation for Holly's music partially inspired the song: "Buddy's death, for me, an impressionable 13-year-old, delivering papers, was an enormous tragedy. The cover photo of the posthumously released 'Buddy Holly Story' and 'The Buddy Holly Story, Vol. 2,' coupled with liner notes written by his widow, Maria, created a sense of grief that lived inside of me, until I was able to exorcize it with the opening verse of 'American Pie.'" RELATED: Taylor Swift Sends Flowers to Don McLean After Beating 'American Pie' for Longest-Ever No. 1 Hit He wrote the song in 1970 inspired by America as a whole, with the plane crash contributing to its lyrics. "All of a sudden this memory of Buddy's death had the dramatic power that I needed and started my mind operating on a different level. And I was able to see where this song had to go, how big it had to be, how long it had to be," wrote McLean. "Through my relationship with Buddy, I was able to discover my peculiar writing talent and, much to my amazement, help bring Buddy and his music back from the dead," continued the musician. "In a sense, 'American Pie' contains the spiritual connection to Buddy Holly that was always in me. It's as if we both gave each other new life." Government officials closely tracked a massive surveillance balloon believed to be from China as it traveled across the U.S. for several days. The white balloon, which China's foreign ministry has claimed to be used for meteorological purposes, traveled at an altitude of around 60,000 feet with a vessel described as the size of three buses, officials said. It was shot down over the Atlantic Ocean Saturday afternoon. Chinese spy balloon sightings (ABC News Illustration / Google Earth) Here is a timeline of where the balloon was spotted in the U.S.: Jan. 28 The balloon entered U.S. airspace on Jan. 28 north of the Aleutian Islands in Alaska, according to a senior military official. Jan. 30 It then entered Canadian airspace over the Northwest Territories on Jan. 30, the senior military official said. MORE: Large Chinese reconnaissance balloon spotted over the US, officials say Jan. 31 The balloon then traveled south and reentered U.S. airspace over northern Idaho on Jan. 31, according to a senior military official. Feb. 1 4:21 p.m. ET: One of the earliest sightings confirmed by ABC News was Wednesday in Reed Point, Montana. 6:46 p.m. ET: More than two hours later, it was filmed east of Reed Point, in Billings, Montana. Other footage captured it over Billings over the next hour, as civilians wondered what the object was. Suspected Chinese spy balloon found over northern U.S. The United States government ... is tracking a high-altitude surveillance balloon that is over the continental United States right now," said a Pentagon spokesperson. pic.twitter.com/X1hmYSBgD1 John Martin (@MartinInMontana) February 2, 2023 From Montana, the balloon traveled southeast through South Dakota and Nebraska, according to U.S. officials. Feb. 3 9:41 a.m. ET: Social media sightings popped up as the balloon moved southeastwardly across the continental U.S. ABC News confirmed another sighting of the balloon around 9:41 a.m. ET on Friday, when it was filmed over Sabetha, Kansas. Story continues 11 a.m. ET: Over an hour later, it appeared farther east over Saint Joseph, Missouri, where it was filmed. Between 11:56 a.m. and 12:28 p.m. ETL Video footage captured the balloon farther east, over Cameron, Missouri. About 30 minutes later: It was seen farther south within the Kansas City metro area, in Lee's Summit, Missouri. The balloon appeared to be heading toward North Carolina, according to a senior U.S. official familiar with the situation. MORE: Chinese balloon live updates Feb. 4 ABC News confirmed several sightings of the balloon in North Carolina by Saturday morning. 8:40 a.m. ET: The balloon was filmed over Biltmore Park in Asheville, North Carolina. The believed Chinese spy balloon has been spotted over Asheville, NC. Its moving ESE so it will cross over the Sandhills later today. Heres video from Kim Hixson near Biltmore Park. @SpecNews1MTN @SpecNews1RDU pic.twitter.com/rgUjOgIb5G Meteorologist Vernon Turner (@WeathermanVern) February 4, 2023 10:22 a.m. ET: The balloon continued to move southeastwardly, with sightings over the Hendersonville and Saluda areas, before being captured over the Eagle Lake neighborhood in Charlotte. Chinese Spy Balloon currently over Charlotte, North Carolina pic.twitter.com/iwt6tl5CHT Brett Pauley II (@BrettSetGo) February 4, 2023 11:15 a.m.: The balloon was captured over South Carolina, in Lancaster, as it continued moving southeastward toward the coast. 1:30 p.m. ET: The balloon was seen over the coastal city of Myrtle, along with U.S. fighter aircraft close by. 2:39 p.m. ET: Its voyage came to an end. Footage captured the balloon being shot down over the Atlantic Ocean off the coast of South Carolina. The balloon was ultimately downed in U.S. airspace over U.S. territorial waters by fighter aircraft assigned to U.S. Northern Command, according to Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin. The balloon was struck by an F-22 firing a missile roughly six nautical miles off the South Carolina coast, according to a senior U.S. defense official. Video of what appears the balloon was shot down or something happened to it. Appears ruptured. #ChineseSpyBalloon #Balloon #balloonshotdown pic.twitter.com/ugQsGNY4Bc Mike G (@SouthCaroliner) February 4, 2023 ABC News' Victoria Beaule, Layla Ferris, Cheryl Gendron, Julia Jacobo, Kerem Inal, Chris Looft, Josh Margolin and Luis Martinez contributed to this report. Chinese spy balloon timeline: Where it was spotted before being shot down originally appeared on abcnews.go.com In Great Smoky Mountains National Park, eastern box turtles are most common in woodlands below 4,000 feet. They can be seen on roads during the day, especially after summer rains. They often spend hot, dry periods in creeks and puddles. My neighbor has a special affinity for turtles. For years, whenever he saw a box turtle on the highway or crossing a secondary road, he would not just move it off the pavement, he would put it into his truck, take it home to his large, old farm property in East Tennessee, and there release it into a safe, new habitat far from all but a few winding country roads. After many years of bringing home turtles, he noticed he was seeing more and more of them when out working in the woods and fields. He wondered if he had created a little population of them on his land. He also wondered, though, whether it could be somehow detrimental to the turtles to move them. I decided to investigate their natural history to see what could be learned. The eastern box turtle is the most terrestrial species of turtle in Appalachia. When I was growing up in eastern Kentucky, we used to call them terrapins. But that term actually applies to aquatic species and now refers mostly to one called the diamondback terrapin found in marshy areas along the coast. The eastern box turtle is the most terrestrial species of turtle in Appalachia. It is easy to distinguish the sexes, as the eyes of adult males are bright red. The box turtle is distinguished by having a hinge that allows it to close both plates of the lower shell against the upper shell. This completely encases the turtles fleshy body in a tightly sealed box. According to Reptiles and Amphibians of the Smokies (Great Smoky Mountains Association, 2001), Eastern box turtles spend the warm months wandering the woodlands and are especially active after rains. During dry periods they often bury themselves in mucky areas, with only the tops of their shells exposed. The approximate dates of hibernation are from the first frost in the fall until the last frost in the spring. Word from the Smokies: Northern river otters stage a comeback Word from the Smokies: Scientists discover new salamander species hiding in plain sight Paul E. Super confirmed that they do not burrow very deep down into the soil when they hibernate. As the science coordinator for Great Smoky Mountains National Park, he has used little transmitters to monitor the movements of the turtles seen at The Purchase near Waynesville. Story continues Box turtles can live up to between 50 and 100 years. Their age can be estimated by counting the concentric growth rings on each plate of the upper shell, which usually sports bright yellow or orange markings. These turtles were all photographed at The Purchase near Waynesville. They can be differentiated as individuals by the color patterns on their shells, says Super. I've identified 38 individuals thus far up here at The Purchase, one of whom I've been identifying almost yearly for 14 years. He hasnt seen Lucy since 2020 but says hes mostly been at his desk rather than hiking around in her territory. One scientific paper Super shared with me states that relocating box turtles ... could endanger the relocated turtle. Box turtles ... should be released as close as possible to the location where they were found to minimize mortality. However, if relocation is the only management option available, penning turtles for a time after they are relocated may help them establish a new home range (Tuberville et al., 2005, cited in Effects of Relocation on Movements and Home Ranges of Eastern Box Turtles by Hester, Price, and Dorcas). Safe Passage: The I-40 Pigeon River Gorge Wildlife Crossing Project is making recommendations to departments of transportation in both Western North Carolina and East Tennessee that can help many species near the Smokies have a better chance to get to the other side of the busy highway between Asheville and Knoxville. Steve Goodman, conservation biologist with National Parks Conservation Association, holds a diamondback terrapin as part of a volunteer survey project in the Florida Panhandle. Steve Goodman is a conservation biologist with National Parks Conservation Association researching wildlife movement and mortality in the Pigeon River Gorge and along I-26 northwest of Asheville. He told me more about how relocation can affect turtles. Turtles have low egg and hatchling survival rates, and adults do not become sexually mature until 5 to 10 years old, he explains. Once mature, and after their shells are fully ossified, their survival rate can increase to 95% or higher. So, stable local populations are highly dependent on high annual adult survival rates. Removing adults from local populations particularly considering their longevity of 50 to 100 years can result in decades of lost reproductive potential and, depending on population size (most US populations seem to be declining), removing even just a few animals can be significantly detrimental to a local populations viability. Word from the Smokies: Community scientists discover 70-plus new Smokies species Word from the Smokies: 4 new snakes discovered by UNCA prof, Smokies researcher in 6 years Some studies have indicated that box turtles possess a keen homing ability that compels most individuals to attempt to return to their home area. There are always exceptions, but most box turtles immediately take off from their relocation site in the general direction of their home territory, encountering increased threats from predators, roads, and weather extremes in unfamiliar habitats. Goodman says studies have shown the accuracy of their homing abilities diminishes after a few miles, but they may continue to expend substantial time and energy in their futile search. Like many reptiles, box turtles possess a keen homing ability that compels relocated individuals to try to return to their home area. They may expend substantial time and energy in a futile attempt to get back to familiar territory. Turtles travelling across roads may be doing so as part of their normal foraging, breeding, and wintering cycles within their typical home ranges but could also be transients or long-dispersers that can travel distances of several miles or more, says Goodman. These long-distance travelers are thought to be important for genetic exchange across the larger landscape or for establishing new populations. According to Kenneth C. Dodds North American Box Turtles: A Natural History (Vol. 6. University of Oklahoma Press, 2002), relocating box turtles can have unintentional negative consequences at the new location such as disease transmission to resident turtles, or if no turtles currently exist there, reduction in fitness and survival due to small numbers of relocated individuals. Goodman, who derived some of his information from Dodds book, says the bottom line is that even well-intentioned relocation of a turtle can contribute to its demise and does not necessarily equate to a sustainable conservation strategy. However, given the encroachment of development and roads on all habitats, the severity of threat does factor into the best course of action. Box turtles eat plant and animal matter of all kinds including berries, grapes, mushrooms, insects, snails, earthworms, other invertebrates, and carrion. When threatened, they can completely withdraw into their closed shells. Word from the Smokies: Inaugural Daisy Town Day shows Elkmont is not a ghost town When you see a turtle crossing a road, it is generally recommended to move him or her across the road in the same direction of their travel if you can do so safely, without putting your own life at risk. If the other side of the road has no suitable habitat (i.e., a new housing development or parking lot), then the next best option might be to relocate the turtle farther down the road as soon as suitable habitat picks up again. Goodman says box turtles do have the ability to breed and persist even in urban areas, and in these situations, humans helping with education, laws, and wildlife crossing opportunities does contribute to overall species conservation. The best actions we can take for box turtles in rural and even urban communities is to stress the importance of allowing them to freely move about, observing them from a distance, and facilitating their movements across dangerous roads when possible, Goodman says. Also, we can support efforts such as Safe Passage and land conservancies that are working to increase protection of roadside habitats, reduce fragmentation, and improve permeability across our highways. Frances Figart Frances Figart (rhymes with Tiger) is the editor of Smokies Life and the Creative Services Director for the 29,000-member Great Smoky Mountains Association, an educational nonprofit partner of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. GSMA is part of the Safe Passage Fund Coalition along with Defenders of Wildlife, National Parks Conservation Association, North Carolina Wildlife Federation, The Conservation Fund, The Wilderness Society, and Wildlands Network. Learn more at SmokiesSafePassage.org and reach the author at frances@gsmassoc.org. This article originally appeared on Asheville Citizen Times: Word from the Smokies: What happens when we relocate box turtles? Crime and Courts Reporter Donald W. Meyers is a multimedia journalist at the Yakima Herald-Republic covering crime and courts. He is also the writer behind It Happened Here, a weekly history column. Before coming to Yakima, Meyers covered a wide variety of beats at The Salt Lake Tribune, Daily Herald, and daily and weekly newspapers across New Jersey. He is also a member of the Society of Professional Journalists, serving as a regional officer in the organization as well as on the national Freedom of Information Committee. BUDAPEST, Feb. 3 (Xinhua) -- Budapest Airport said on Friday that it has recovered 75 percent of its pre-pandemic passenger traffic, handling 12.2 million passengers in 2022. This was a 164 percent increase from 2021, the airport said. The past year has been "extremely challenging, yet very successful," the airport in the Hungarian capital said, with the addition of new destinations to its schedule. Last year, the airport processed 194,000 tons of air cargo, up from 183,362 tons in 2021, which set "unprecedented records." In 2022, Budapest Airport had flights to a total of 140 destinations. From the end of last year, the airport resumed direct flights to China. Our directory features more than 18 million business listings from across the entire US. However, if we're missing your business, add your business by clicking on Add Your Business. Tel Aviv: The recent attack on a military facility in the Iranian city of Isfahan was neither confirmed nor denied by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, but he did tell reporters on Friday that his nation is making every effort to undermine "Iran's capabilities" across numerous "arenas." Netanyahu stated, "We concentrated mainly on the Iranian issue," following a meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris. According to the Jerusalem Post, there has been a significant rapprochement between Israel and France regarding how we view the Iranian threat. At various levels, we engage in independent operations against Iran, but these efforts also consistently aim to weaken or harm Iran's offensive capabilities, according to Netanyahu. The capabilities of Iran are, of course, also harmed or diminished in comparison to those of other arenas. Also Read: Following the initial craft's flight over the US, a Chinese spy balloon "transits" Latin America. According to an unnamed official cited by the Times of Israel, Netanyahu allegedly told Macron that he was willing to send "military objects" to Ukraine. The PM's office declined to comment on what was discussed. Tehran claimed that a military facility in Isfahan, which was recently attacked and is thought to have served as a hub for the production of drones and missiles, was attacked by East Jerusalem. President Vladimir Zelensky of Ukraine's top aide suggested that the raid was related to the ongoing conflict with Russia, sayingUkraine did warn you. Iran has been charged with supplying Russia with drones used in the Ukraine conflict by Kiev and its Western backers on numerous occasions. Iran and Russia both refute the accusations. Although Tehran acknowledged sending some drones to Moscow, it emphasised that the delivery occurred before the current hostilities, which started in February 2022. Also Read: Why, in light of IMF success, is Bangladesh looking for Saudi oil on credit? Netanyahu was quoted by a number of media outlets as saying he was "certainly looking into" sending Iron Dome air defence systems to Ukraine earlier this week. The previous Israeli government claimed that such a course of action was impractical because it had no spare weapons, despite Kiev's demand for the weapons. Although Washington, the organization's primary supporter in the West, has been under pressure from Kiev to persuade Jerusalem to reconsider, Iron Dome is partially funded by US tax dollars. The Joe Biden Administration expects Netanyahu's government to "provide support for all of Ukraine's needs," specifically including "humanitarian, economic, and security," according to US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Tuesday during a two-day visit to Israel. To Kiev's dismay, Israeli assistance to Ukraine has so far only included things like medical equipment and ambulances and has refrained from providing arms and ammunition. Regarding rumours that Israel might join the US and NATO in arming Kiev, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova told reporters this week in Moscow: "All countries that supply weapons [to Ukraine] should understand that we will consider these [weapons] to be legitimate targets for Russian armed forces." Also Read: Blinken cancels his trip to China because of a "unacceptable" Chinese spy balloon "Any attempts to supply more, different, or even unrealized but announced weapons have caused and will continue to cause this crisis to escalate. And everyone ought to know this, Zakharova continued. Honda and the US government are urging owners of about 8,200 older vehicles not to drive them until dangerous air bag inflators are replaced. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration on Friday issued a "Do Not Drive" advisory for the 2001 through 2003 vehicles with Takata inflators that have a high possibility of exploding and hurling shrapnel in a crash. The safety agency says the risk to drivers and passengers is dire because the so-called "Alpha" inflators have a 50 per cent chance of exploding in a crash. If the inflators blow apart, they can shoot shrapnel toward a driver's face that could kill them or cause serious injuries. The agency says the Honda and Acura vehicles were recalled previously but records show that repairs have not been made in the affected vehicles. Honda already has replaced 99 per cent of the dangerous inflators. Vehicles affected include the 2001 and 2002 Honda Accord and Civic, the 2002 Honda CR-V and Odyssey SUVs, the 2003 Honda Pilot, the 2002 and 2003 Acura 3.2 TL and the 2003 Acura 3.2 CL. Owners can check to see if their cars are covered by going to NTSA website and keying in their 17-digit vehicle identification number. "These inflators are two decades old now, and they pose a 50 per cent chance of rupturing in even a minor crash," NHTSA Acting Administrator Ann Carlson said in a statement. "Don't gamble with your life or the life of someone you love and schedule your free repair today before it's too late." Takata used ammonium nitrate to create a small explosion to inflate air bags in a crash. But the chemical can become more volatile over time when exposed to moisture in the air and repeated high temperatures. The explosion can rupture a metal canister and hurl shrapnel into the passenger compartment. Since 2009, the exploding air bags have killed at least 33 people worldwide, including 24 in the United States. Most of the deaths and about 400 injuries have happened in US, but they also have occurred in Australia and Malaysia. Honda said it has reached out to the owners more than 18 million times with mailed notices, emails, phone calls and even home visits. The company says repairs are free and parts are available. It's offering free towing and loaner vehicles if needed. Potential for the dangerous malfunction led to the largest series of auto recalls in US history, with at least 67 million Takata inflators recalled. The US government says that millions have not been repaired. About 100 million inflators have been recalled worldwide. The exploding air bags sent Takata Corp. Of Japan into bankruptcy. SUVs are the prime interest of the Indian audience in this era. Currently, there are a host of SUVs in the Indian market in almost every price bracket, shape, and size. Although, coupe SUVs have remained on the higher end of the spectrum. The companies have tried to keep this body style reserved for premium models. However, Tata Motors is trying to break the stereotype with the Curvv. Initially showcased as a concept last year, the Tata Curvv made it to the 2023 Auto Expo as a near-production version. No doubt, it managed to catch a lot of attention, but how will it go against the countrys most-loved SUV - Hyundai Creta? We have an answer. Tata Curvv vs Hyundai Creta - Design The Hyundai Cretas design is distinctive and modern. However, it certainly had polarising opinions when it initially went on sale. With time, the design grew on Indian buyers, making them buy it in bulk. The negative offset for wheel arches, large radiator grille, chunky headlamps, diamond-cut alloy wheels, high-set bonnet, and imposing scuff plate design lent the Creta with butchness. That is exactly what you need from an SUV. Yes, the Creta looks bigger than it actually is. Comes the Tata Curvv, and we are forced to go weak on our knees, pleading to Tata Motors to launch it as soon as possible. The bonnet is high-set, and the roofline tapers down like BMW X6 and Mercedes-Benz GLC coupe. LED DRLs on the nose are ribbon-like, and tail lamps also follow the suit. On the whole, it will be the most stylish SUV on the block, once launched. Not to forget, Tata Motors has confirmed that the production-spec model will retain 80 per cent of the concepts design. Tata Curvv vs Hyundai Creta - Interior & Features The Hyundai Cretas another top attribute remains its spacious interior, which has a rather subtle design theme to appeal to most. The Creta comes with a host of exclusive features, a 10.25-inch touchscreen, a large MID for the instrument console, a panoramic sunroof, powered seats, cruise control, an air purifier, Bose sound system and more. Well, it also gets a slew of safety features like ABS with EBD, six airbags, a tyre pressure monitoring system, hill-hold assist, vehicle stability management, a reverse parking camera and more. Talking about Tata Curvv, the interior of the model showcased at the 2023 Auto Expo was kept hidden from the sharp eyes of journalists. But, we did manage to have a sneak peek on it, and the dashboard looked sporty with accents, and colour coordinated with the paint scheme. The coupe SUV will get two displays, one for the instrument cluster and another for the infotainment unit. The Curvv will be a spacious car, and it will come with a panoramic sunroof. The SUV is expected to get a Harman-tuned audio system, 360-parking camera, powered front seats and more. Also read - Tata Curvv Coupe SUV: Top 5 things about it - Launch date, design, engine and more; WATCH Tata Curvv vs Hyundai Creta - Mechanical Bits The Hyundai Creta is on sale with three engine choices - 1.5L NA petrol, 1.5L diesel, and 1.4L turbo-petrol motor. Transmission options include a 6-speed MT, 6-speed iMT, 6-speed AT, and 7-speed DCT. Well, the Creta has a proven reliability record, and it is a capable car in terms of road comfort as well. Talking of Curvv, it will be underpinned by the modified version of the Nexons platform. It will be offered with both ICE and electric powertrains. The carmaker showcased the new-gen 1.2L turbo-petrol motor at the Auto Expo, which will make its way to the Curvv. The smaller 1.2L motor will belt out 125 PS and 225 Nm. Gearbox options could include a 6-speed MT and 6-speed DCT. Air India Express released a statement on Friday, hours after flames were spotted in a flight from Abu Dhabi to Calicut, informing passengers that a mechanical fault caused one of the aircraft's engines to catch fire. "Air India Express flight IX 348, on the Abu Dhabi-Kozhikode route, returned to Abu Dhabi airport following a technical snag in one of the engines. The technical snag was identified while taking off and the aircraft landed back Safely, following all laid down procedures, at Abu Dhabi International Airport with the 184 passengers onboard," Air India said in a statement, adding that they regret the inconvenience caused to the guests on board. Also read: IndiGo Flies Passenger to Udaipur Instead of Patna, DGCA Initiates Probe The statement added that this event has been reported to the regulatory authorities as per protocol, and alternate arrangements are being made for the guests. Earlier today, a Calicut-bound Air India Express flight from Abu Dhabi landed back at Abu Dhabi airport after flames were detected in one of the engines soon after take-off. Earlier on January 23, an Air India Express flight from Trivandrum to Muscat landed back 45 minutes after taking off due to a technical glitch, officials said. According to officials, the flight management system (FMS) developed a technical glitch. "The flight took off from Trivandrum at 8.30 am and landed back at 9.17 am," they added. In December 2022, a snake was found on a Dubai-bound Air India Express flight. Air India Express Boeing B-737 flight from Calicut to Dubai took off as scheduled, and after landing at Dubai airport, the staff reported a snake on board the aircraft. The aviation regulatory body, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), had ordered a detailed probe regarding the incident, the aviation body said. (With ANI Inputs) New Delhi: Lubna Rafiq has recently been making waves in the makeup industry being the woman responsible for Sanjay Leela Bhansalis stellar makeup and appearance at his first ever Masterclass at BAFTA. With her vast enriched experience of over 20 years, she is one of the original and go-to beauty entrepreneurs especially in the Asian and UK bridal industry. Over the past decade, Lubna has enjoyed teaching and mentoring more than thousands of students through her esteemed Lubna Rafiq academy. Her expertise of being a makeup artist for celebrities, fashion photographers and magazines have brought her closer to both the worlds of makeup and art. Armed with her masterly makeup skills, she has also been fronting as the global ambassador for leading makeup brand, Dailylife Forever52 for the past two years. One of the most loved cosmetic brands, it is among the fastest selling brands in Middle East and worldwide with its branches spread across all continents. They are now known for the highly distinguished range of makeup products incorporating latest and most advanced technologies for perfect results. Working closely with them, Lubna has produced visuals to create a spectacular vision for the brand. She has been instrumental in using their products to its maximum ability and ease for all artists internationally across her shows, magazine shoots, bridal looks and even at her own academy courses. She firmly resonates with the brands goal to consistently produce top-quality products bringing them the love and loyalty of all consumers. I am very excited to take this journey forward with Dailylife Forever52 who think makeup as passion and joy in the same wavelength as I do. The brand amplifies everything I stand for- young energy, top-notch quality, innovation and value for money. Our latest venture is to bring a new genre of makeup to Europe and India. With Dailylife Forever52 having launched two physical stores across India, we cant wait to experience what this powerhouse association will bring for us next! New Delhi: With Shehzada nearing its release, cinephiles will again witness the blockbuster Jodi of Kartik Aaryan and Kriti Sanon in theaters soon, after 'Luka Chuppi'. The duo has already been making headlines since the time the project was announced and after the release of Shehzadas trailer, the excitement amongst the audience has been increasing every single day. Last seen in Luka Chuppi as Rashmi and Guddu, they're back after 4 years and the audience cannot wait to watch them together on screen. Seeing their compatibility in the blockbuster Luka Chuppi and now the trailer of Shehzada, it's hard for the fans to hold onto their horses and anticipate more. Taking to social media, Kriti Sanon shared a few stories of herself and co-star Kartik Aryan as they attended the Vaayu Fest. They attended the fest for movie promotions of Shehzada and the students showered a tremendous amount of love. They performed the hook step for the song Munda Sona Hoon Main and their chemistry on stage made everyone lose their minds. They kept the audience at the edges of their seats and left them wanting more. Currently, this Kriti Sanon starrer is being loved by the audience and the listeners are rejoicing in songs like Chedkhaniyan Mere Sawaal Ka and Munda Sona Hoon Main and undoubtedly they're already chartbusters. Meanwhile, on the work front, Kriti Sanon will also be seen in The Crew, Ganapath, Adipurush and an untitled film with Shahid Kapoor. Kartik on the other hand will be next seen in Aashiqui 3, Satya Prem ki Katha and Kabir Khan's next directorial. New Delhi: Sanjay Mishra and Neena Guptas critically acclaimed Vadh is currently trending as no. 1 on Netflix. The audience is loving each and every part of the film, especially the suspense which kept them on the edge of their seats throughout their binge. With Indias two most talented veterans delivering a spine-chilling performance and entertaining viewers throughout, Vadh has made it to the most-watched film on Netflix. The audience is loving both actors and is heaping praises for their performances. This is the first time in Indian movie history that a thriller like Vadh has been made. The picture is currently being lauded by everyone, including the nation's esteemed reviewers. In fact, Vadh has a 9.1 rating on IMDb. Furthermore, Sanjay Mishra, who plays a never-before-seen avatar in the film, gives a fantastic performance, while Neena Gupta gracefully plays the role of a humble housewife whose life revolves around her husband and son. The plot of Vadh revolves around the harrowing journey of aging parents and the difficulties they face when their son abandons them. While we have seen Sanjay Mishra play multiple roles in his career, this is for the first time we will see him go all menace. Vadh is written and directed by Jaspal Singh Sandhu and Rajeev Barnwal. The film is presented by Luv Films' Luv Ranjan and Ankur Garg and produced by J Studio and Next Level Productions. New Delhi: A court in the US has cleared Elon Musk in a class-action securities fraud over his tweets about taking Tesla private. The jurors deliberated for about two hours before reaching the verdict, called a "disappointed" one by Nicholas Porritt, partner at Levi & Korsinsky, the firm representing the Tesla shareholders in the class action, reports CNBC. Musk tweeted that he is "deeply appreciative of the jury's unanimous finding". His lead counsel Alex Spiro argued before the jury on Friday, saying "fraud cannot be built on the back of a consideration". ( Also Read: GST Council to Meet on February 18; Tax on Pan Masala, Gutka Companies, Online Gaming Top Agenda The controversial 2018 tweets by Musk on taking Tesla private has come back to haunt him and he stands to lose billions. The plaintiffs have argued that Musk`s tweets about taking Tesla private, in which he said he had "funding secured", led them to lose millions of dollars. ( Also Read: Mastercard's NFT Product Lead Chief Satvik Sethi Resigns, Citing Abuse and Emotional Suffering Musk had earlier admitted in a US court that he ignored his advisors and investors while tweeting about Tesla securing funding in 2018. In August 2018, he tweeted: "Am considering taking Tesla private at $420. Funding secured.""Shareholders could either sell at 420 or hold shares & go private," he added. The notorious tweet cost him his role as Chairman of Tesla.The August 2018 tweet resulted in Musk and Tesla reaching a settlement of fraud charges with the US SEC. The settlement included $40 million in penalties, split equally between the company and Musk, and the removal of Musk as chairman of the Tesla board. Mumbai: Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aaditya Thackeray has challenged "unconstitutional" Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde to contest an election against him in the Worli Assembly seat in Mumbai. Speaking at a party program on Friday, Thackeray, MLA from Worli, also dared other Sena MLAs and MPs who rebelled against his father Uddhav Thackeray to resign and face the voters afresh. "I have challenged this unconstitutional chief minister that I would resign as MLA from Worli and you contest election against me. Let me see how you win from Worli," Aaditya said. "I am also challenging these 13 turncoat MPs and 40 MLAs to resign and contest elections again and see if they can get elected," he added. Shinde became chief minister after toppling the Uddhav Thackeray-led Maha Vikas Aghadi government in June 2022. US imposes sanctions against managers of Iranian drone manufacturer 4 February, 12:43 PM The US Treasury has imposed sanctions against the management of an Iranian drone manufacturing company (Photo:REUTERS / Jim Bourg) The United States has applied sanctions against the board of directors of Paravar Pars Company, an Iranian-based light-aircraft producer, which supplies drones used by Russia in its war against Ukraine, the U.S. Treasury Department reported on its website on Feb. 3. A Treasury Department press release notes that Paravar Pars played a role in the development and production of Shahed-171 suicide drones. Read also: About 15 Shahed drones downed over Kyiv overnight From now on, all property and interests in property of eight senior executives that are in the United States or in the possession or control of U.S. citizens must be blocked. Additionally, any transactions in or transiting the United States are banned for the sanctioned individuals. Video of day "The United States will continue to aggressively target all elements of Irans UAV program," the Treasury Department message reads. On Jan. 31, the U.S. Department of Commerce placed trade restrictions on seven Iranian entities for producing drones that Russia has used to attack Ukraine. The EU and the UK have also expanded their sanctions against Iranian individuals and entities that are involved in supplying Russia with battle drones. Starting from summer 2022, Russia has launched Iranian-made Shahed suicide drones, pretending that they are own drones, named Geran. Russia uses them, in particular, to attack civil facilities and the energy infrastructure of Ukraine. Iran has constantly denied its military support of Russia, despite plenty of evidence provided by Kyiv. Teheran has only admitted that it sent some drones to Russia before the beginning of the full-scale invasion of Ukraine. The U.S. and other countries have imposed a variety of sanctions on Iranian businessmen and businesses involved in military drone production. Follow us on Twitter, Facebook and Google News Amritsar (Punjab) [India], February 4 (ANI): An Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI) was suspended after he was found doing objectionable acts under the influence of alcohol, while on duty outside the DC Complex in Amritsar. As per the allegations, ASI Surinder Singh under the influence of alcohol took off his clothes and exposed his private parts.The video of the incident went viral on social media.Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Kamaljit Singh Aulakh told ANI that the accused officer had been suspended. "ASI Surinder Singh was on duty outside the DC Complex. A video made by some journalist went viral showing that he was doing duty while being drunk. We have sent the report for his suspension and also set up the inquiry against him," he said. (ANI) (The above article is sourced from news agency ANI. Zeenews.com has made no editorial changes to the article. News agency ANI is solely responsible for the contents of the article) New Delhi: The army has announced a change in the Agniveer recruitment process and candidates wanting to join the force will now have to first appear for an online common entrance examination (CEE), followed by physical fitness and medical tests. While advertisements regarding the change in the process have been put out by the army in various newspapers, sources on Saturday said, the notification for this is expected to be issued around mid-February. The first online CEE is slated to be held in April at nearly 200 locations across the country and for it all preparations have been finalised, a source said. "The changed methodology will ensure increased focus on cognitive aspect during selection. It will have wider outreach across the country and also reduce the large crowds seen during recruitment rallies to make them more manageable and easier to conduct," the source said. Also Read: IAF Agniveer Exam 2023: Datesheet released for recruitment of Agniveers in Indian Air Force - Check guidelines here An advertisement published in a leading newspaper with the title -- 'Transformational Changes in Recruitment in Indian Army' -- on Friday, lists the new three-step methodology for the recruitment process. The first step will be the online CEE for all candidates at nominated centres, followed by physical fitness test for CEE-qualified candidates during recruitment rallies, and medical tests in the end, it says. "For Agniveer recruitment process, earlier, candidates had to undergo physical fitness test, followed by medical tests, and appearing for the CEE was the last step. But, now, common online CEE is the first step. This will also help is easing screening process and the logistics involved," the source said. The new process will apply to about 40,000 candidates who are willing to join the army from the next recruitment cycle of 2023-24, he said Chandigarh: Suspended for her alleged anti-party activities, Congress' Patiala MP Preneet Kaur Saturday said the party is welcome to take whatever decision it wants but asserted she always gave her best to the party. The Congress on Friday suspended her and also asked her to explain why she should not be expelled for "anti-party activities". Kaur is the wife of former chief minister Amarinder Singh, who joined the BJP after being ousted from the Congress. Also Read: Congress MP Preneet Kaur, Amarinder Singh's Wife, Suspended From Party "The Congress is welcome to take whatever decision it wants. I have always given my best to the party and to the people who have repeatedly elected me. I owe it to them and will continue to serve them, as always. I derive my strength from my people. Everything else is secondary," Kaur said on Twitter on Saturday. Congress is welcome to take whatever decision it wants. I have always given my best to the party and to the people who have repeatedly elected me. I owe it to them and will continue to serve them, as always. I derive my strength from my people. Everything else is secondary. Preneet Kaur (@preneet_kaur) February 4, 2023 Meanwhile, Punjab Congress chief Amrinder Singh Raja Warring accused the former Union minister of weakening the Congress in Patiala, and said she should leave the party on her own. "It would have been better if Preneet Kaur ji quit the party on her own. She left no stone unturned in weakening the Congress in Patiala," claimed Warring. The Congress' disciplinary panel member secretary Tariq Anwar had said the action against Kaur follows complaints against her from the party's Punjab unit chief Amarinder Raja Warring and other state leaders that she was helping the BJP in the state. "The Congress president has received a complaint from Amarinder Singh Raja Warring, president of PCC Punjab, that Preneet Kaur, MP (Lok Sabha) from Patiala is indulging in anti-party activities to help BJP. Some other senior Congress leaders of Punjab also share this view," Anwar had said in a statement on Friday. It is not the first time that Kaur has been served a show-cause notice by the party. In November 2021, the party issued her a show-cause notice seeking an explanation for her alleged "anti-party activities". Kaur had then said that she did not receive any such notice, but had only read about it in newspapers and on social media. In May last year, Punjab Congress chief Warring also said that Kaur was not with the party anymore. In the 2022 state assembly polls, Kaur even campaigned for her husband Amarinder Singh who contested the elections as an ally of the BJP. Kaur had been an MP in 1999, 2004, and 2009. She lost the Patiala Lok Sabha seat in 2014 but won it back in 2019. New Delhi: A 53-year-old Assistant Sub-Inspector of the Central Reserve Police Force, Rajbir Kumar shot himself with his service revolver on Friday at the residence of the Director of the Intelligence Bureau while he was on duty. The incident occurred in the evening at around 4:15 pm as per reports. The reason behind his actions has not been uncovered yet and no suicide note has been found. Kumar who hailed from Madhya Pradesh was deployed at the residence of the IB Director when he shot himself. In response to this, the CRPF, on Saturday, ordered a Court of Inquiry to ascertain the reason behind the act, according to the news agency ANI. Meanwhile, the body of the deceased security personnel has been sent for autopsy. The CRPF personnel's family has been informed and inquest proceedings under CrPC Section 174 have also been initiated. As per the data available, in the paramilitary forces, there were 123 suicides in 2017, 96 In 2018, and 129 in 2019. The figure stood at 137 in 2020 and at an all-time high of 153 Suicide cases In 2021 with 58 cases reported by the CRPF. (With ANI Inputs) New Delhi, Feb 4 (PTI) Delhi BJP leaders and workers on Saturday staged a protest at the AAP office here demanding the resignation of Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal after the Enforcement Directorate named him in a charge sheet in the excise scam case. Leader of Opposition in Delhi Assembly, Ramvir Singh Bidhuri alleged the AAP government was "looting" the city that was first looted by invaders like Mohammed Ghori, Mahmood Ghazni and Taimur, the British and thereafter by Congress governments. "The Enforcement Directorate has named Kejriwal in its charge sheet related to the liquor scam and he should resign from the post of chief minister of Delhi," state BJP president Virendra Sachdeva said. No immediate reaction was available from the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) to the allegations. Several BJP workers were detained by police while trying to cross a barricade erected near the AAP office at DDU Marg. The BJP will keep on exposing the "corruption" of the Kejriwal government which is weakening Delhi like a "termite", Sachdeva said during the protest. The ED has claimed in its supplementary charge sheet filed in the court that a part of the alleged Rs 100 crore "kickbacks" generated in the scrapped Delhi excise policy was used in the AAP's 2022 Goa assembly election campaign. It has also claimed that a close aide of the Delhi chief minister arranged a video call through FaceTime (a video calling facility on iPhone) on his phone for one of the accused Sameer Mahandru. In the call, Kejriwal told Mahandru that the aide is "his boy" and he should trust him and carry on with him, the ED has claimed. Kejriwal has dismissed the ED charge sheet, alleging that cases filed by the agency are "fake" and are used to "topple" governments and buy MLAs at the behest of the Centre. Thousands of BJP workers participated in the protest, the Delhi BJP claimed in a statement. Sachdeva said all the accused in the "liquor scam" are going to jail one by one and now the day is not far when Kejriwal and his deputy Manish Sisodia will also be behind the bars. Bidhuri said the city government itself accepted in the Vidhan Sabha that there was loss of revenue due to the new liquor policy. "Development has come to a standstill in Delhi and corruption is rampant everywhere," he alleged. Delhi BJP general secretary Kuljit Singh Chahal said people of Delhi are not able to understand whether there is a "scam" in the AAP government or the government itself is a "scam". BJP workers will no longer sit peacefully and will expose the corrupt ways of the Kejriwal government in Delhi, he said. (The above article is sourced from news agency PTI. Zeenews.com has made no editorial changes to the article. News agency PTI is solely responsible for the contents of the article) Prayagraj: A day after the Supreme Court warned of action for any delay in clearing transfer and appointment of judges, Union Law Minister Kiren Rijiju on Saturday said the country will be governed according to the Constitution and wishes of the people and nobody can give warning to anyone. "Public is 'malik' (master) of this country and we are servants. We all are here for service and the Constitution is our guide.... The country will be governed under the guidance of the Constitution and wishes of the public. Nobody can give warning to anyone," Rijiju said. Also Read: Supreme Court Gets Five New Judges After Centre's Approval "Sometimes discussions are held in the country on some matters and in a democracy everyone has the right to express their opinion. But people sitting in responsible positions have to think before saying anything, whether it will benefit the country or not," he said, referring to reported remarks of a Supreme Court bench. The minister was addressing an event on the 150th anniversary of the Allahabad High Court Bar Association here as the chief guest. His remarks came a day after a bench of Justices S K Kaul and A S Oka expressed displeasure over the delay in clearing recommendations for transfer of high court judges, calling it a "very serious issue", and warned that any delay in this matter may result in both administrative and judicial actions which might not be palatable. On Saturday, the Supreme Court also questioned the government over the delay in clearing the names of five high court judges who had been recommended for elevation to the Supreme Court. The judges were elevated to the Supreme Court on Sunday. The remarks are the latest in a tug of war between the judiciary and the executive over the process of appointment of judges of the Supreme Court and high courts. Pune: Nationalist Congress Party president Sharad Pawar and some others in the party had forewarned then-Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray about a possible rebellion in his outfit Shiv Sena, but the latter was confident his MLAs will not take any extreme step, senior NCP leader Ajit Pawar has said. A section of MLAs of the undivided Shiv Sena, led by then-Cabinet minister Eknath Shinde, had rebelled against Thackeray's leadership in June last year, leading to the collapse of the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) coalition government. The rebel MLAs then teamed up with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to form a government under Shinde's leadership. Ajit Pawar, asked by Lokmat Editor Sanjay Awate on Friday during an interview if those in the MVA government had any inkling about a rebellion brewing in the Shiv Sena, said they had clues about such a possibility much in advance and Thackeray was informed about it. "Pawar saheb (Sharad Pawar) himself had informed Thackeray. Pawar saheb had even phoned Thackeray and told him about it (possible rebellion in Shiv Sena). However, Uddhavji had said he trusts his MLAs and was confident they will not take such an extreme step," said the NCP leader. Ajit Pawar, whose party was a constituent of the Shiv Sena-led MVA along with the Congress, served as deputy chief minister in the Thackeray cabinet. Also Read: Maharashtra: Uddhav Thackeray announce alliance with Prakash Ambedkar's VBA The former deputy CM said when the first group of 15 to 16 rebel Sena MLAs went with Shinde, there was an urgent need to keep the remaining flock together. But no such urgency was shown and MLAs were allowed to go wherever they wanted, said Ajit Pawar. In the end, 40 of the 55 Shiv Sena MLAs joined the Shinde camp. "There was an attempt to break the trust of (Sena) MLAs. We can say some people remained unattentive," he said without elaborating. Ajit Pawar wondered why top MVA leaders allowed things to go out of control. Asked when he got to know that trouble was brewing in the Thackeray-led party, the NCP leader he heard murmurs six months before the actual rebellion in June 2022. "I had warned Uddhavji about it. Uddhavji said he had also heard the same and told me he would speak to Eknath Shinde. He (Thackeray) had said it was an internal party issue and that he would resolve it," Ajit Pawar claimed. AGARTALA: Newly formed political party Tipra Motha is likely to emerge as the kingmaker after the Tripura assembly polls, in which it will fight a triangular contest with the BJP-IPFT and Congress-Left Front alliances. Tipra Motha, headed by erstwhile royal scion Pradyot Manikya Debbarma, refused to stitch an alliance with either the BJP or foes-turned-friends Congress and Left Front but has not shunned the possibility of a post-poll coalition with any party that supports its demand for a separate state of Greater Tipraland. Banking on its stupendous performance in the 2021 Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council (TTAADC) polls, in which it bagged 18 of the 30 seats in the body, Tipra Motha has decided to go solo and hopes to sweep the 20 tribal-dominated seats that hold the key to power in the northeastern state that has a 60-member assembly. The BJP, on the other hand, is not leaving anything to chance, and has decided to contest 55 seats, leaving only five seats for alliance partner Indigenous People's Front of Tripura (IPFT), which has ceded much ground to Tipra Motha in the tribal areas as the newly formed outfit raised the demand for Greater Tipraland statehood. The alliance partners will witness a friendly fight in Ampinagar assembly seat in Gomati district as IPFT will contest a total of six constituencies in the February 16 polls. In the 2018 assembly polls, in which the BJP-IPFT combine ended the 25-year-long rule of the Left Front, the saffron party had bagged 36 seats, including 10 ST reserved constituencies, while its alliance partner had bagged eight seats. However, the IPFT began losing public support after failing to deliver its core demand of Tipraland state, and instead agreeing to a common minimum programme of the BJP under which the Centre constituted a panel for socio-economic and linguistic development of the tribals, political observers said. The IPFT, which once played a key role in eroding the Left Front's traditional tribal vote bank, over the last two-and-half-years suffered loss of support base as Tipra Motha began harping on the demand for Greater Tipraland, a separate state carving out tribal areas of Tripura. Political observers believe that Tipra Motha's popularity rose not only because it raised the separate statehood demand but also because tribals still revere the erstwhile royal family and they refer to Pradyot Debbarma as 'Bubagra' or king. Seeing Tipra Motha's rise in the tribal area, CPI(M) and Congress, rivals that joined hands, and even the BJP sought an electoral adjustment with the regional party but failed due to Debbarma's uncompromising attitude towards the Greater Tipraland demand, the political observers said. BJP leader and poll strategist Balai Goswami asserted that in an event of a triangular contest, the saffron party has an edge over the Tipra Motha and Congress-Left Front alliance as anti-BJP votes will get split among them. "For the first time, a regional party is going solo in the state. The BJP is expected to do better in the hills and it also has a solid base in the plains. We expect our party's tally to increase in this election," he told PTI. Senior CPI(M) leader Pabitra Kar said the Congress-Left alliance is expected to gain in the fight between Tipra Motha and the BJP as the saffron party's alliance partner IPFT has lost its strength in the hills, but the CPI(M) still has its loyal supporters in the tribal areas. "In the 2018 polls, the IPFT had not only bagged eight seats but also helped the BJP win 10 constituencies in the hills. But this time, who will help the saffron party get the blessings of the indigenous voters?" he said. Party spokesperson Anthony Debbarma said Tipra Motha will emerge as the kingmaker, bagging at least 25-26 seats. "Since the stage is set for a triangular contest in almost all the assembly seats, Tipra Motha will be the gainer in the polls. We will not only win the tribal-dominated seats but also some non-tribal constituencies," he said. Prominent Tipra Motha leader Tapas Dey said the party had appealed to anti-BJP forces to come under one umbrella but neither the Left nor the Congress could commit to Greater Tipraland. "Also, voters of the CPI(M) and the grand old party are confused over whom to vote in the scenario of changed political alignment," he said. The Tipra Motha will contest 42 of the 60 seats in the state. According to the seat adjustment, the CPI(M) will contest 43 seats, and its Left Front partners Forward Block, RSP and the CPI one each. The Left Front is also supporting an independent candidate in Ramnagar constituency in West Tripura. The Congress will contest 13 seats, the Trinamool Congress 28, while there are also 58 Independent candidates. Veteran journalist and political analyst Sekhar Dutta said Tipra Motha's entry into the electoral battle is going to hurt the BJP's poll prospects in the tribal areas as demonstrated in the TTAADC polls of 2021. "Tipra Motha will certainly perform well in TTAADC areas banking on its Greater Tipraland demand, while the BJP is unlikely to retain its tally of 10 ST seats due to the regional outfit's growing popularity among tribal voters...Moreover there are six to eight non-reserved seats where tribal voters are the deciding factor. Hence, the BJP has to win more seats in the plains if it wants to retain power," he added. Ujjain(MP): Locals allegedly pelted stones at a bulldozer during an anti-encroachment drive in Ujjain's Jhitarkhedi village on Friday. As per reports, nine people got hurt in the incident, including the JCB driver and police officers. A large police contingent has been deployed at the incident site. "The anti-encroachment drive was carried out to demolish a wall erected illegally," the police said. As per information, some people encroached on government land and installed a statue. They also erected a boundary wall. The Panchayat had complained about this. On Friday, the police team along with the administrative officials reached the spot and brought down the wall using a JCB. Also Read: 'Join BJP or bulldozer is ready': Madhya Pradesh minister warns Congress leaders, video goes viral When the team was returning back, villagers pelted stones at them. According to reports, the locals beat up the JCB driver and attempted to set the truck on fire. The locals also attacked the police team when they returned to the scene after receiving the information. To escape, several police officers fled in different directions. Madhya Pradesh | Locals pelted stones at earth mover during an anti-encroachment drive in Jhitarkhedi village in Ujjain (Pics: Screenshots of viral visuals) pic.twitter.com/2pfXgHDGIu ANI MP/CG/Rajasthan (@ANI_MP_CG_RJ) February 3, 2023 "We received information about a boundary wall that had come up illegally. An anti-encroachment drive was being conducted when some locals started pelting stones at the bulldozer. The incident left some police personnel and the JCB driver injured. Police personnel in adequate numbers have been deployed at the spot," news agency ANI quoted Ujjain Additional District Magistrate Santosh Tagore as saying. He further said that the operation was carried out after officials got information regarding encroachments on government property. (With ANI inputs) Agartala (Tripura) [India], February 4 (ANI): Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma while addressing a public meeting in Banamalipur said that Bharatiya Janta Party (BJP) built the Ram Temple after removing Babur`s occupation at Ram Janmabhoomi in Ayodhya. The Assam CM was in Tripura on Friday, claiming that Babur had captured the place where Lord Ram was born."We had resolved to construct Ram Mandir at Ram Janmabhoomi if our Government comes to power...Babur had occupied the land where Lord Ram was born. Today we removed Babur and started the construction of a grand Ram Temple," said the Assam CM.The Assam CM further lauded the efforts made by Prime Minister Narendra Modi for peace and harmony in the country. He said, "People did not have faith earlier. People thought communal clashes between Hindus and Muslims would emerge if someone initiated the construction of the Ram Temple. Look at Modi ji now. On the one hand, Ram Temple is being constructed; on the other hand, the brotherhood between Hindus and Muslims has not been affected. The country is progressing as a result." Meanwhile, CM Himanta Biswa Sarma on Friday also exuded confidence that BJP "will win with an even bigger vote margin when polls are conducted in Tripura due later this month". Himanta Biswa also claimed that the opposition Congress and CPI (M) will be wiped out in the state.Himanta Biswa made these remarks at Suryamani Nagar in Tripura.Meanwhile, the BJP is likely to release its election manifesto for Tripura in the next week. BJP posted a stunning victory in Tripura in the 2018 Assembly elections, a Left bastion with Manik Sarkar being its Chief Minister for over two decades. After its poll victory, BJP appointed Biplab Deb as Tripura`s Chief Minister and in May 2022 replaced him with Manik Saha as the Chief Minister. The party is preparing to register another win in Tripura and has struck an alliance with its former ally Indigenous People`s Front of Tripura (IPFT) which has fielded its candidates at five assembly seats. For the elections at 60 Assembly seats in the northeastern state, which are slated to be held on February 16, the BJP has fielded 55 candidates.For the first time, 11 women candidates have been given tickets in the state assembly election.Tripura is slated to go to Assembly polls on February 16. Votes will be counted on March 2 along with Nagaland and Meghalaya. (ANI) (The above article is sourced from news agency ANI. Zeenews.com has made no editorial changes to the article. News agency ANI is solely responsible for the contents of the article) Hyderabad, Feb 4 (PTI) AIMIM Chief Asaduddin Owaisi came down heavily on the Assam Government demanding to know who will take care of the girls who were left in lurch after the state government's crackdown on child marriages. Speaking to reporters, he said it is the failure of the state government which has been keeping quiet for the past six years. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Saturday asserted that the drive against child marriage, launched by the state police from the previous day, will continue till the next Assembly elections in 2026. "For the past six years there has been a BJP Government in Assam. What have you been doing during the past six years? This is your failure for the past six years. You are sending them to jails. Now who will take care of those girls? CM (Himanta Biswa Sarma) do, Marriage will remain there. It is a failure of the state and on top that you are pushing them into misery," he said in a press conference. More than 2,250 people have been arrested in the state till Saturday in the crackdown on child marriage, according to an official statement from the Assam Government said. Altogether 2,258 people have been arrested so far based on 4,074 FIRs registered against child marriages across the state, it said. According to the State government, those having married girls below 14 years of age will be booked under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, and cases under the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, 2006 will be registered against those who have married girls in the 14-18 years age group. "You (Assam Government) have already booked 4,000 cases and are in the process of booking another 4,000. Why are they not opening new schools? Open new schools. The BJP Government in Assam is a biased government against Muslims," he further charged. He asked why the state government is not giving lands to landless people in lower Assam unlike upper Assam. (The above article is sourced from news agency PTI. Zeenews.com has made no editorial changes to the article. News agency PTI is solely responsible for the contents of the article) New Delhi: Incarcerated alleged conman, Sukesh Chandrashekhar has released one more letter in which he has claimed that he had never proposed to TV serial actor Chahatt Khanna, when she had come to meet him in Tihar Jail. Chandrashekhar's statement comes after Khanna, in an interview with a national daily, claimed that she was trapped in visiting him in Tihar jail, where he went down on his knees before her and proposed marriage. When she told him that she is already married and has two kids, she was told that her husband was not the right man for her. Khanna also told the publication that it was only after the Enforcement Directorate (ED) summoned her in the alleged extortion case involving him - a little more than a year ago - that she learnt that Chandrashekhar is not former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister J. Jayalalithaa's nephew. In a letter addressed to the media, Chandrashekhar, who is in the capital's Mandoli jail, claimed that he never proposed to Khanna and she came for a business meeting for some movie production offer, which is also recorded in her statement to the ED. "I have no interest to date or be with women, who are already married or have children. I am not desperate like these Gold Diggers like Chahatt. My association with Chahatt, Nikki has been only for professional reasons, for which the meetings happened, and advance was paid," he said in his letter. "Chahatt says she did not realise that she was in Tihar!! How can someone not know that they are entering a jail for a mulaqat? Was she a 10 year old, in fact even a 10 year old would know what a jail looks like," he further said. "She claims that she was tricked by Pinky (Chadrashekhar's aide Pinky Irani), so I would want to ask, an actress who has done so many projects and a well connected person, how can she blindly trust someone and travel all the way to Delhi and come to Tihar Jail all alone? She is a trained liar. This shows what kind of stories she is making now," he said. "If she came to Tihar to meet me or if I was calling her as she claims, why did she not ever report anything to anyone or the police since 2018, what was stopping her to make a complaint all these years?" he added. Investigations are going on in a money laundering case involving Chandrashekhar and Bollywood actors, including Jacqueline Fernandez and Nora Fatehi, who have also been questioned in relation with the case. Earlier this month, Delhi's Patiala House Court adjourned arguments in the alleged money laundering case and the matter will be next heard on February 15. New Delhi: Filmmaker Vivek Agnihotri, who received critical acclaims for his film 'The Kashmir Files', has been lately hitting headlines for not so good reasons. The filmmaker was questioned by many on social media for his film 'The Kashmir Files' Oscar contendar status and later, was brutally targetted after he shared a video criticising Deepika Padukone and Shah Rukh Khan's Besharam Rang song from 'Pathaan'. Twitteratti hit back at the filmmaker by sharing his daughter's bikini clad images. Some of the users also dug out his old video where he spoke about 'celebrating a womans body' and called 'erotica an art form'. On Saturday, Vivek took to Twitter and shared a note mentioning 'Bharat' and 'Brahim'. However, the netizens were not too pleased with his latest tweet and once again trolled him for the same. __ ___ ____ __ __ ____ ___ __ ___ ____ ____ __ __ ____ _____ ____ __ ___ ___ ____ __ _____ ___ __ __________ __ ____ __, ____ ____ ______ ___ __ ____ __ ______ __ _____ __ _______ __ _____ __ ______ __ __ ________ ___ - VRA Vivek Ranjan Agnihotri (@vivekagnihotri) February 4, 2023 One user wrote, "A fake bhramin who eats beef, boast about it, when caught, he says he stopped eating. He made sleazy movies, comments on bikini. He exploits nationalism and hatred to profit." "Everything is to quench our hunger-politics,film making,acting except Kissan and Jawan.Kissan is to feed himself and others. Jawan is to protect others and the boundaries of the country. So that you may sleep in peace! So leave ego and hatred," a user slammed. "Entire world is a global village sir. I thought you believed in global inclusivity. But sorry to say these marketing tricks are outdated. With that, I am a proud Indian. If you know anything about Vasudaiv Kutumbukam," a user ranted. A fake bhramin who eats beef, boast about it, when caught he says he stopped eating. Made sleazy movies, comments on bikini. He exploits nationalism and hatred to profit. raj_telangana (@rajtelangana2) February 4, 2023 Everything is to quench our hunger-politics,film making,acting except Kissan and Jawan.Kissan is to feed himself and others,Jawan is to protect others ,the boundaries of the country so that you may sleep in peace! So leave ego and hatred. tomi mathew1 (@mathew_tomi) February 4, 2023 Entire world is a global village sir. I thought you believe in global inclusivity but sorry to say these marketing tricks are outdated. With that being said I'm a proud Indian. If you know anything about "Vasudaiv Kutumbukam" Shubhneet Puri (@iamshubh_97) February 4, 2023 Popular critic Kamal Rashid Khan also slammed Vivek for his latest tweet and wrote, "Koi Inn Bhai Sahab Ko Hospital Main Bharti Karao. Inko Ilaaj Ki Sakht Zaroorat Hai." Koi Inn Bhai Sahab Ko Hospital Main Bharti Karao. Inko Ilaaj Ki Sakht Zaroorat Hai. https://t.co/vN3Jow1U7t KRK (@kamaalrkhan) February 4, 2023 Speaking about his upcoming projects, Agnihotri said that his upcoming film, 'The Delhi Files' will be the last in the Files trilogy, which is 'evidently about the 1984 anti-Sikh riots'. In November 2022, he announced another upcoming film 'The Vaccine War' to be released on August 15, 2023, on the Indian independence day. New Delhi: Pulsar Suni, the prime accused in the 2017 actress abduction and sexual assault case in which Malayalam actor Dileep is also an accused, has yet again approached the Kerala High Court seeking bail. A leading south Indian actress - who subsequently identified herself - had complained that she had been abducted and sexually assaulted by a gang of goons in 2017 and filmed the assault to blackmail her. After the main accused Sunil was arrested and questioned, Dileep was accused of being the main conspirator in the case and arrested. The high court will now hear this plea on February 13. In March last year, his bail plea was rejected by the high court and he then approached the Supreme Court in July last year and that too was turned down. Then the apex Court said that if the trial is not concluded within a reasonable time, he may approach the high court and he has done that. Suni has been in judicial custody after being arrested soon after the incident came to light in 2017. The trial in the case is underway at the Principal Sessions Court, near here. New Delhi: Bigg Boss 16 contestant Shalin Bhanot is making heads turn towards him with his game and charming persona. But did you know the actor was a salesman in his early days of struggle. He used to sell mobile phones in an electronics shop when he moved to Mumbai from his hometown Jabalpur. Shalin struggled with the English language as he was not polished in it. He was not well versed in the mannerisms required to communicate with the customers, but in spite of that he managed to create sales Initially, Shalin would directly ask the customers how much money they had and what they wanted, but the owners would support him and correct him with his tone and educate him to ask questions like what was their budget and what they would prefer buying. Shalin shared that the biggest lesson he learned from his job as a salesman was that no work is big or small and even the smallest of work can teach one a lot if they have the desire to learn. ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Friday said the International Monetary Fund (IMF) was giving a 'tough time' to the government during talks for the restoration of the loan. The IMF mission led by Nathan Porter began talks on January 31 with the Pakistan side headed by Finance Minister Ishaq Dar for the ninth review of the USD 7 billion assistance package. The prime minister made his remarks while addressing an Apex Committee meeting in Peshawar. The committee is the highest provincial body to deal with militancy. While talking about the security situation, Sharif highlighted the economic challenges faced by the country and said that the "situation is in front of the entire nation". "As I speak, the IMF delegation is in Islamabad and they are giving Finance Minister Ishaq Dar and his team a tough time," he said. The economic challenge at this point was unimaginable, Sharif said, adding that the IMF conditions that the country has to meet are 'beyond imagination', but it is mandatory to fulfil the demands of the fund. He didn't provide details about the talks with the IMF team that coincide with Pakistan's reserves falling to a critically low level of USD 3.09 billion as of January 27 just enough to cover only 18 days' worth of imports. Pakistan's central bank said on Friday that its foreign exchange reserves have dropped by 16.1 per cent to USD 3.09 billion at the end of the last fiscal week, the lowest in nearly 10 years. The IMF after a successful ninth review would provide over USD 1.1 billion and the gesture would open venues for bilateral loans from different friendly countries and multilateral institutions. Meanwhile, the Dawn newspaper, quoting sources, reported that the IMF mission chief demanded clear action to bridge the daunting fiscal gap between 2 to 2.5 trillion rupees. "You don't have any other option" was the critical message, as members of the mission engaged with the finance and power ministries led by Ishaq Dar and Khurram Dastgir Khan, respectively, sources close to the meetings told the newspaper. The two sides are expected to complete the technical-level talks in the first round, which will conclude by the end of the day, followed by the policy-level negotiations to complete by February 9. Pakistan has agreed to increase petroleum prices and allowed a market base exchange rate but that seems too little and too late. The fund wants more measures to increase revenues. Novartis Pharma AG In two of the largest Phase III trials conducted in hidradenitis suppurativa (HS), Cosentyx (secukinumab) treatment response rates continued to improve beyond the primary endpoint analysis at Week 16 to more than 55% at Week 52, as evaluated by the HS Clinical Response (HiSCR) measure1 Safety findings were consistent with the well-established safety profile of Cosentyx in its approved indications1 HS is a recurrent skin disease affecting one in 100 people worldwide, causing painful, boil-like abscesses that can lead to open wounds and irreversible scarring in the most intimate parts of the body2,3 There is only one approved therapy for HS and many patients, even those on treatment, still experience uncontrolled symptoms4 Basel, February 4, 2023 Novartis announced today that The Lancet has published long-term data from the pivotal SUNSHINE and SUNRISE trials evaluating Cosentyx (secukinumab) in moderate-to-severe hidradenitis suppurativa (HS)1. In two of the largest Phase III trials conducted in HS, Cosentyx treatment response rates continued to improve beyond the primary endpoint analysis at Week 16 to more than 55% of patients achieving a HS Clinical Response (HiSCR) measure at Week 521. Overall, at Week 52, more than 60% of patients were free of flares1. Additionally, more than 50% experienced a meaningful reduction in pain, which has been identified by patients as the most burdensome symptom of HS1,5. HS is complex, painful, hard to treat and impacts patients quality of life at very high levels, said Alexa B. Kimball, MD, MPH, lead investigator of the trials, investigator at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Massachusetts, US, and Professor of Dermatology at Harvard Medical School. These results build on the positive findings shared last year, providing additional promising data about the long-term efficacy and safety of Cosentyx in HS. As a physician who frequently treats people living with HS, I see patients with tremendous need for new options that reduce symptoms, disability, pain and flares. Story continues Safety results were consistent with the well-established profile of Cosentyx, with no new signals1. Long-term efficacy and safety results were also seen among patients who previously did not respond to biologic therapies1. Further details are available here: https://www.novartis.com/news/media-library/52-week-results-cosentyx-hidradenitis-suppurativa-summary. People living with HS currently only have one approved treatment option for this disfiguring disease, said Angelika Jahreis, M.D., Ph.D., FAAD, Global Head Development Unit Immunology and Clinical Development Excellence, Novartis. These data show that Cosentyx could provide meaningful and long-lasting improvement of HS symptoms. Based on these encouraging data, we hope to soon deliver a new treatment to healthcare professionals and people living with HS. These results have been submitted to regulatory authorities in Europe and the United States, and decisions are expected in 2023. If approved, Cosentyx will be the first and only interleukin-17 inhibitor for the treatment of moderate-to-severe HS. About the SUNSHINE and SUNRISE trials1 The SUNSHINE (NCT03713619) and SUNRISE (NCT03713632) trials comprise the largest Phase III program in hidradenitis suppurativa (HS), with a combined enrollment of more than 1,000 patients in 40 countries. SUNSHINE and SUNRISE are identical, global Phase III multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-group studies that evaluated the short-term (16 weeks) and long-term (up to 52 weeks) efficacy, safety and tolerability of two dose regimens of Cosentyx in adults with moderate-to-severe HS. Results at Week 16 showed a significantly higher proportion of patients achieved a Hidradenitis Suppurativa Clinical Response (HiSCR) when treated with Cosentyx 300 mg, dosed every two weeks (after standard weekly loading doses), compared with placebo in both the SUNSHINE and SUNRISE trials (45.0% vs 33.7% [P=.0070] and 42.3% vs 31.2% [P=0.0149], respectively). HiSCR is defined as at least a 50% decrease in abscess and inflammatory nodule (AN) count with no increase in the number of abscesses and/or draining tunnels. At Week 16, the study arm receiving Cosentyx 300 mg every four weeks (after standard weekly loading doses) was superior to placebo for achieving HiSCR in the SUNRISE study (46.1% vs 31.2% [P=0.0022]), though this arm did not meet statistical significance in the SUNSHINE study (41.8% vs 33.7% [P=0.0418]). Secondary endpoints included the percentage change from baseline in abscess and AN count, proportion of patients experiencing a flare, and proportion of patients with Numeric Rating Scale 30 (skin pain) response after 16 weeks of treatment. An exploratory analysis assessed the long-term effects of Cosentyx for each of the primary and secondary endpoints up to 52 weeks. HiSCR values observed at Week 16 following either dose regimen of Cosentyx were improved over time to Week 52 (SUNSHINE: SECQ2W [56.4%]; SECQ4W [56.3%]; SUNRISE: SECQ2W [65.0%]; SECQ4W [62.2%]), with rapid improvements seen in patients who switched from placebo at Week 16. The safety profile was consistent with that of Cosentyx in its existing indications. About Cosentyx (secukinumab) Cosentyx is the first and only fully human biologic that directly inhibits interleukin-17A, an important cytokine involved in the inflammation of psoriatic arthritis (PsA), moderate to severe plaque psoriasis, ankylosing spondylitis (AS) and non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis (nr-axSpA)6,7. Cosentyx is a proven medicine and has been studied clinically for more than 14 years. The medicine is backed by robust evidence, including 5 years of clinical data in adults supporting long-term safety and efficacy across moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis, PsA and AS8-14. These data strengthen the position of Cosentyx as a treatment across AS, nr-axSpA, PsA, moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis (adult and pediatric) and two subtypes of juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA), enthesitis-related arthritis and juvenile psoriatic arthritis. More than 875,000 patients have been treated with Cosentyx worldwide since its launch in 2015. Cosentyx is approved in more than 100 countries, most recently gaining approval for JIA in the US and Europe16,17. About hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) HS is a painful and recurrent inflammatory skin disease2. It causes boil-like abscesses that can burst, creating open wounds, often in the most intimate parts of the body, resulting in irreversible scarring2. It can take 10 years to get a diagnosis, even though HS affects approximately one in 100 people globally2,18. There is currently only one approved biologic treatment and around 50% of patients treated can lose response4. In advanced cases, healthcare professionals often consider surgery to remove abscesses and prevent the disease from spreading further, an invasive procedure that frequently results in additional scarring19. HS impacts a patients quality of life more than any other skin disease, and people living with HS often experience comorbidities such as obesity, diabetes, arthritis and depression3,20,21. Disclaimer This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements can generally be identified by words such as potential, can, will, plan, may, could, would, expect, anticipate, seek, look forward, believe, committed, investigational, pipeline, launch, or similar terms, or by express or implied discussions regarding potential marketing approvals, new indications or labeling for the investigational or approved products described in this press release, or regarding potential future revenues from such products. You should not place undue reliance on these statements. Such forward-looking statements are based on our current beliefs and expectations regarding future events, and are subject to significant known and unknown risks and uncertainties. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those set forth in the forward-looking statements. There can be no guarantee that the investigational or approved products described in this press release will be submitted or approved for sale or for any additional indications or labeling in any market, or at any particular time. Nor can there be any guarantee that such products will be commercially successful in the future. In particular, our expectations regarding such products could be affected by, among other things, the uncertainties inherent in research and development, including clinical trial results and additional analysis of existing clinical data; regulatory actions or delays or government regulation generally; global trends toward health care cost containment, including government, payor and general public pricing and reimbursement pressures and requirements for increased pricing transparency; our ability to obtain or maintain proprietary intellectual property protection; the particular prescribing preferences of physicians and patients; general political, economic and business conditions, including the effects of and efforts to mitigate pandemic diseases such as COVID-19; safety, quality, data integrity or manufacturing issues; potential or actual data security and data privacy breaches, or disruptions of our information technology systems, and other risks and factors referred to in Novartis AGs current Form 20-F on file with the US Securities and Exchange Commission. Novartis is providing the information in this press release as of this date and does not undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking statements contained in this press release as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. About Novartis Novartis is reimagining medicine to improve and extend peoples lives. We deliver high-value medicines that alleviate societys greatest disease burdens through technology leadership in R&D and novel access approaches. In our quest to find new medicines, we consistently rank among the worlds top companies investing in research and development. About 108,000 people of more than 140 nationalities work together to bring Novartis products to nearly 800 million people around the world. Find out more at https://www.novartis.com Novartis is on Twitter. Sign up to follow @Novartis at https://twitter.com/novartisnews For Novartis multimedia content, please visit https://www.novartis.com/news/media-library For questions about the site or required registration, please contact media.relations@novartis.com References Kimball AB, Jemec GBE, Alavi A, et al. Secukinumab in moderate to severe hidradenitis suppurativa (SUNSHINE and SUNRISE): week 16 and 52 results of two identical, double-blind, placebo-controlled, phase 3 randomised trials. Lancet 2023; published online Feb 3. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1016/S0140-6736(23)00022-3 [Last accessed: February 2023]. MedLine Plus. Hidradenitis suppurativa [online]. Available at: https://medlineplus.gov/genetics/condition/hidradenitis-suppurativa/ [Last accessed: February 2023]. Sabat R, Jemec GBE, Matusiak L, et al. Hidradenitis suppurativa. Nat Rev Dis Primers. 2020;6:18. Kimball AB, Okun MM, Williams DA, et al. Two Phase 3 Trials of Adalimumab for Hidradenitis Suppurativa. N Engl J Med. 2016;375:422-34. Matusiak L, Szczech J, Kaaz K, et al. Clinical Characteristics of Pruritus and Pain in Patients with Hidradenitis Suppurativa. Acta Derm Venereol. 2018;98:191-194. Girolomoni G, Mrowietz U and Paul C. Psoriasis: rationale for targeting interleukin-17. Br J Dermatol. 2012;167:717-24. Novartis Europharm Limited. Cosentyx (secukinumab): Summary of Product Characteristics. Available at: https://www.ema.europa.eu/en/documents/product-information/cosentyx-epar-product-information_en.pdf [Last accessed: February 2023]. Baraliakos X, Braun J, Deodhar A, et al. Long-term efficacy and safety of secukinumab 150 mg in ankylosing spondylitis: 5-year results from the phase III MEASURE 1 extension study. RMD Open. 2019;5:e001005. Bissonnette R, Luger T, Thaci D, et al. Secukinumab demonstrates high sustained efficacy and a favourable safety profile in patients with moderate-to-severe psoriasis through 5 years of treatment (SCULPTURE Extension Study). J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol. 2018;32:1507-1514. Mease PJ, Kavanaugh A, Reimold A, et al. Secukinumab Provides Sustained Improvements in the Signs and Symptoms of Psoriatic Arthritis: Final 5-year Results from the Phase 3 FUTURE 1 Study. ACR Open Rheumatol. 2020;2:18-25. Data on file. CAIN457F2310 (MEASURE 1 and 2): Pooled Safety Data. Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corp; July 23, 2018. Data on file. CAIN457F2310 and CAIN457F2305 summary of 5-year clinical safety in (ankylosing spondylitis). Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corp; May 2019. Data on file. CAIN457F2312 Data Analysis Report. Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corp; November 2008. McInnes IB, Mease PJ, Kirkham B, et al. Secukinumab, a human anti-interleukin-17A monoclonal antibody, in patients with psoriatic arthritis (FUTURE 2): a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled, phase 3 trial. Lancet. 2015;386:1137-46. Data on file. Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corp. Novartis AG. 2021. Novartis Cosentyx receives FDA approval for the treatment of children and adolescents with enthesitis-related arthritis and psoriatic arthritis. [Press release]. Available at: https://www.novartis.com/news/media-releases/novartis-cosentyx-receives-fda-approval-treatment-children-and-adolescents-enthesitis-related-arthritis-and-psoriatic-arthritis [Last accessed: February 2023]. Novartis AG. 2022. Novartis Cosentyx (secukinumab) receives positive CHMP opinion for expanded use in childhood arthritic conditions. [Press release]. Available at: https://www.novartis.com/news/media-releases/novartis-cosentyx-secukinumab-receives-positive-chmp-opinion-expanded-use-childhood-arthritic-conditions [Last accessed: February 2023]. Kokolakis G, Wolk K, Schneider-Burrus S, et al. Delayed Diagnosis of Hidradenitis Suppurativa and Its Effect on Patients and Healthcare System. Dermatology. 2020;236:421-430. Vinkel C and Thomsen SF. Hidradenitis Suppurativa: Causes, Features, and Current Treatments. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2018;11:17-23. Mac Mahon J, Kirthi S, Byrne N, et al. An Update on Health-Related Quality of Life and Patient-Reported Outcomes in Hidradenitis Suppurativa. Patient Relat Outcome Meas. 2020;11:21-26. Trinidad M-V, Manuel S-D, Antonio M-L, et al. Quality of Life in Patients with Skin Disease and Their Cohabitants. In: M. Jasneth, A. Sage and C. Medhane, eds. Health-Related Quality of Life Rijeka: IntechOpen; 2021: Ch. 5. # # # Novartis Media Relations E-mail: media.relations@novartis.com Central North America Richard Jarvis +41 79 584 2326 Julie Masow +1 862 579 8456 Anja von Treskow +41 79 392 9697 Michael Meo +1 862 274 5414 Anna Schafers +41 79 801 7267 Mary Carmichael +1 862 200 8344 Switzerland Satoshi Sugimoto +41 79 619 2035 Novartis Investor Relations Central investor relations line: +41 61 324 7944 E-mail: investor.relations@novartis.com Central North America Samir Shah +41 61 324 7944 Sloan Simpson +1 862 345 4440 Nicole Zinsli-Somm +41 61 324 3809 Parag Mahanti +1 973 876 4912 Isabella Zinck +41 61 324 7188 Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies (MAPS) SAN JOSE, Calif., Feb. 03, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) in Australia announced today that they will permit limited use of certain psychedelic-assisted therapies for the treatment of mental health conditions through the Special Access Scheme (SAS), a compassionate-use provision. As the funder and sponsor of the most advanced research of a psychedelic-assisted therapy, MAPS is encouraged to see a fourth nation provide access to some psychedelic-assisted therapies. Australians who have endured long-standing psychological suffering will soon have the opportunity to consider emerging treatments backed by rigorous clinical research: MDMA-assisted therapy for PTSD, with two successful Phase 3 studies, and psilocybin-assisted therapy for treatment-resistant depression, currently in Phase 2 clinical trials. Australias policy change is one that every country should consider: suffering people, regardless of nationality, need more opportunities to access novel treatments. We hope that this announcement will encourage more international discussion and collaboration towards access to psychedelic therapies and comprehensive drug policy reform. Rick Doblin, Ph.D. , Founder and Executive Director of MAPS Following Israel , the United States , and Canada , Australia is now the fourth government agency to enact a compassionate use program for psychedelic-assisted therapies to treat mental health conditions. Beginning July 1, 2023, psychiatrists in the Authorized Prescriber Scheme will be permitted to administer psychedelic-assisted therapies in controlled clinical settings. Among other safety constraints, the new TGA regulations require that Authorized Prescribers obtain informed consent from the patient, are approved by an ethics committee, and have the training and expertise appropriate for the condition being treated and the proposed use of the product. Media Contact Betty Aldworth, Director of Communications Story continues media@maps.org NOTE The safety and efficacy of psychedelic-assisted therapies are currently under investigation. No psychedelic-assisted therapy has been approved by the FDA or other regulatory authorities; no therapy works for everyone; and all therapies, even in clinical settings, carry risks. ABOUT MAPS Founded in 1986, MAPS is a 501(c)(3) non-profit research and educational organization that develops medical, legal, and cultural contexts for people to benefit from the careful uses of psychedelics and marijuana. MAPS is sponsoring the most advanced psychedelic therapy research in the world through its wholly-owned subsidiaries MAPS PBC and MAPS EU . Since MAPS was founded, philanthropic donors and grantors have given more than $140 million for psychedelic and marijuana research and education. MAPS has earned both the Guidestar Platinum Seal of Transparency and a 4-Star Rating from Charity Navigator . Two of Koreas most recognizable car brands are now the subject of a class-action lawsuit. Filed in the Eastern District of Wisconsin court on Feb. 17, the suit seeks damages and injunctive relief for car owners whose Kia or Hyundai came designed without a key security feature that helps prevent them being stolen. Dont miss The suit specifically calls out the role a viral TikTok challenge played in an explosive spike in car thefts in recent years. The social media trend saw thieves hotwiring certain Kia and Hyundai cars and SUVs using nothing but a USB cord and if they were feeling fancy, a screwdriver. Its the very same challenge that spurred State Farm and Progressive to announce theyre now refusing to insure select models made by the big South Korean auto firms due to how easy they are to steal. [This is a] serious problem impacting our customers and the entire auto insurance industry, State Farm said in a media statement. 'A serious problem': Big South Korean auto firms face heat as State Farm, Progressive now refuse to cover certain models heres why these cars are too risky to insure Which models are impacted? The Kia and Hyundai models being targeted by TikTok thieves were released between 2011 and 2021. According to 2021 insurance claims records from the Highway Loss Data Institute (HLDI), Kia and Hyundai models from 2015 to 2019 are roughly twice as likely to be stolen as other vehicles of similar age. What makes them so easy to steal is that many of them lack a basic theft prevention technology called an electronic immobilizer, a tool that stops the engine from starting unless the correct key is present. Immobilizers can be found in 96% of vehicles sold for the 2015 to 2019 model years, according to the HDLI, but only 26% of Kias and Hyundais had them at the time, leaving them vulnerable. Story continues Without an immobilizer, anyone can break into a car and bypass the ignition with ease, the HLDI said. And they dont need to be a professional car thief to succeed they just need TikTok. The class-action suit in Wisconsin claims both Kia and Hyundai have long known or should have known of the defect in their cars. It goes on to state that instead, the manufacturers failed to disclose and actively concealed the defect from the public, and continue to manufacture, distribute, and sell the vehicles without disclosing the defect. While Kia and Hyundai are now both working on providing free software updates to get in front of the issue, the plaintiff in the suit (whose car was stolen in 2021) believes the companies held off on implementing that software update before as a costsaving measure to improve their profitability. However, the number of thefts recorded before the update was issued is alarming. The Chicago Police Department warned of an astounding 767% increase in vehicle thefts in 2021 due to the TikTok challenge. And in Los Angeles, Kia and Hyundai vehicles accounted for almost 20% of vehicle thefts in 2022, up from 13% in 2021, according to the Los Angeles Police Department both staggering figures considering how many car brands are available on the market. Read more: Rich young Americans have lost confidence in the stock market and are betting on these 3 assets instead Too risky to insure Comprehensive car insurance coverage will typically cover theft, as well as repair costs from break-in damages. This means that insurers are picking up the bill for this unfortunate TikTok trend and for State Farm and Progressive, enough is enough. This explosive increase in thefts in many cases makes these vehicles extremely challenging for us to insure, said Progressive spokesman Jeff Sibel in an emailed statement to CNN. During the past year weve seen theft rates for certain Hyundai and Kia vehicles more than triple and in some markets these vehicles are almost 20 times more likely to be stolen than other vehicles. In response, Progressive has limited its sale of new insurance policies on specific Kia and Hyundai models, while also increasing the price of coverage for these cars. State Farm has made a similar move to temporarily stop writing new business in some states for certain model years and trim levels of Hyundai and Kia vehicles, but the insurer hasnt yet confirmed which cities or states are impacted. What should you do if you own a risky model? Police have issued many tips on how to protect vehicles that are at high risk of theft. Simple things like using a steering wheel locking device, keeping valuables out of sight and parking in a well-lit and well-traveled area can go a long way to preventing theft. You might also consider installing alarm systems, anti-theft dash cams and vehicle tracking systems to deter thieves and increase your chances of finding your car if its stolen. Its important to remember that State Farm and Progressive are only limiting their sales of new insurance policies for high-risk Kia and Hyundai vehicles. If you own one of these vehicles and already have insurance in place, taking steps to secure your vehicle and limit the risk of theft could help to control your insurance costs. Other ways to control your insurance costs On average, Americans pay $1,553 a year on auto insurance. And while coverage is legally required in most states, overpaying for insurance isnt. So even if your insurer isnt threatening to revoke your coverage, if you havent cruised through your options lately, you could be overpaying by as much as $500 a year on this essential policy. Your best chance to find savings on your auto insurance is to spend some time shopping around and comparing offers. Typically, that might mean setting aside hours or even a whole day to call up different insurers just to provide them with your details to get an accurate quote. But with todays comparison sites, in as little as three minutes, you can find the best deals on auto insurance all in one place. This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind. Dubai, United Arab Emirates--(Newsfile Corp. - February 3, 2023) - SM Share Management AG has announced plans to bring the world's largest sapphire, the Priceless Sapphire, to Dubai this spring. The 90.3 kilogram, 451,000-carat gem entered the Guinness Book of World Records in 2022. SM Share Management AG To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/8203/153572_8932489ec4067969_001full.jpg The sapphire was found in 2019 in the Manandzari region of Madagascar. It is now at the Institute for the Protection of Cultural Heritage of Slovenia. Before the official display, which will take place in the spring, a business meeting will be held in February at which leading businessmen and investors in Dubai will assess the possibilities of monetizing the gem. The event will be held on February 8 at 11 a.m. at Richman House Business Center (Opus by Omniyat Building, Busines Bay). Admission for business people and press is free. "The world's biggest sapphire is going to the world's most expensive city," Leon Pogelshek, founder of SM Share Management AG and an art connoisseur, explains the choice of the venue. "We want to showcase the potential of the Priceless, a unique natural sapphire." At the event, the owner of the sapphire will tell the history of the stone, interesting facts about it and hold a series of meetings with potential partners. Also, the participants will discuss options for monetization of the stone. Learn more about the sapphire here: http://priceless-sapphire.com/ ontacts for press: Artem Dushkin, Development Director of SM SHARE MANAGEMENT AG dushkinartem@gmail.com +385992147653 - What's App To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/153572 When family members asked Bonnie Clark what shed like for her 100th birthday, she wanted the same thing that shes given throughout her long and happy life: Help for the animals. From her childhood on a wheat farm in Washington, where she raised Bantam chickens while her mother kept a little canary named Billy, the woman who turns 100 next weekend and adopted her latest shelter dog before Christmas has been a fan of all things feathered and furry. I dont know how people can live without animals, she said, noting that she doesnt favor any one species but considers herself an animal person. We gotta take care of the good Lords gift to us and they are the best gift ever. And so is, she thinks, the celebration her family has planned to honor her 100th an online fundraiser for the Fredericksburg Regional SPCA. Clark and her next-to-youngest child, Janet Clark, live together in a retirement villa in Spotsylvania County and have adopted several older dogs from the facility in recent years. Seniors for seniors, is how Janet Clark, 65, described the pets, some with medical problems, who spent their last days in their home. We enjoyed their life until it ended. The campaigns goal is to raise $5,000. Its available at fredspca.org and dedicating donations in honor of Bonnie Clark will help her family track the total. Of all the birthdays Ive had, she said, I think this is the most meaningful. It has some purpose. A homesteading life Bonnie Jean Greer Clark is old enough to remember the homesteading life her father talked about, when he came out West from Oklahoma to work the land. She lived through the Depression and World War II, gave birth to six Baby Boomers and worked on the business end of the Manhattan Project, research that produced the first atomic bombs. But she doesnt act, talk or move around like someone whose history goes back that far. When she and her two youngest children, Janet Clark and Laurie Webb, sat down for an interview, she was the one who filled in the names and dates when her daughters stumbled. She fired them off as readily as her newest dog, Max, a mixed Shih Tzu, growled at visitors. Hes slightly over-protective and vocal about it especially when a photographer aimed a camera at his Grandmama. My siblings and I have to remind ourselves and not take for granted that Mom is almost 100 because of her energy and personality and Webb paused, searching for the right word. My health? her mother said, finishing the sentence for her. I guess its that Scottish background. Were pretty strong. Clark takes one pill a day, for blood pressure, and her hearing is good. Up until age 95, when she had a lung-related problem, she hadnt been to a hospital since Webb was born 61 years earlier. Shes soft-spoken and funny. When the women hear a rustling in the bedroom and discover mad Max is up on the dresser, Clark calls out: Dont let him eat the rouge. She doesnt ramble about the past, or any topic, but speaks her mind with precision and conviction. While work on her familys wheat farm was a killer and never-ending, and people were poor, totally poor, there was a sense of community she valued. I miss that life. I miss the feeling that we all had of belonging to one another, she said, remembering the way neighbors helped each other. I dont know what the world is now, I dont recognize it. She fears its been lost to these telephones you carry in your pocket and you talk to half the day. Shes afraid that feeling of togetherness she knew as a youngster will disappear. I feel for you, I mourn for you because that will be lost, she said, that feeling of really being a part of this beautiful world of ours. A magnet for strays Her daughters said Clark likes to talk to the animals and sometimes, they meow or bark back at her. One great conversationalist was a white cat named Mr. Earl, one of many pets initially adopted by her children but later bequeathed to her. My brother left him with Mom in Florida and Mr. Earl was her absolute favorite, Janet Clark said. Clark and her late husband, Harold, retired to Florida after his retirement. The two met at a USO dance in Sacramento during World War II when he was a medic and on leave. When the war ended, his interest in medicine continued as he researched treatments for arthritis, both for people and animals. The two were married for 65 years before his death in 2007. Dr. Harold W. Clark, she said, wistfully reciting his full name and credentials. I miss him. The two initially lived in Rochester, New York, with his family, then came south to Northern Virginia for his work at George Washington University. Thats when more babies started to come, as well as cats and dogs. Our house (in Falls Church) was like a magnet for any stray (pet) in the neighborhood, said Webb, who lives in Fredericksburg. There was Buffy, a white Samoyed, and Caesar, who once barked at a gas-meter reader who then hit the dog with a metal stick. Bonnie Clark heard the commotion and took after him, Webb recalled. The mother also filed a complaint against him with the company. People should be jailed, FOREVER, in my view, for harming animals, Clark said. It is unacceptable, no matter what. The couple owned a blueberry farm in southcentral Pennsylvania, where the family spent most weekends and collected an even greater menagerie. The children played with ducks and rabbits which lived in elaborate pens built by their father. When their mother took in whatever strays needed care, their dad would initially fuss that they didnt have room for any more four-legged children. But he was the one who made sure the newest arrivals were comforted and well-fed. Most of the people in our family love animals, Webb said. Janet Clarks daughter, Rachel, has several degrees on the subject including one in zookeeping, which may be a spinoff from her grandfathers work. Animals need help Harold and Bonnie Clark visited a number of zoos in their day, both in the United States and abroad through his work as the research director at the Arthritis Institute in Arlington. He was part of a team that tested antibiotics and anti-inflammatories on large animals including elephants and great apes. The institutes work with Tomoka, the star gorilla at the National Zoo in Washington, was documented in an article by United Press International. Twelve years ago, Tomoka was a bag of bones at 90 pounds, crippled with arthritis, about to be put to sleep to end his agony, according to the 1981 story. Today, Tomoka is a robust 380 pounds, in the prime of life, bounding about like a teenager and a very fine specimen of a gorilla, says the National Zoos Mike Morgan. The Clarks visited animal sanctuaries, established to care for wild animals people purchased, then realized they couldnt handle. The attempt to tame creatures that belonged in the wild was one of Harold Clarks pet peeves, his daughters said. As a result of her husbands work, Bonnie Clark said her concern for animals grew to include the largest on earth as well as some of the smallest, especially as shes gotten older. She cant even step on a spider; she tries to catch it and take it outside. Shes read too many stories, from the many wildlife agencies she supports, about animals losing their habitats. Theres not an animal that isnt a gift to us, and doggone it, we need to yell it, not say it, she said. Were pushing animals out and where are they going to go and where are they going to be fed? I am not going to be here too long so all I can do is yell. The animals need our help. Spotsylvania Countys school resource officer program is under review after a disagreement between the Spotsylvania Sheriffs Office and the school division over extra school resource officers at county high schools. In light of recent coverage issues within our schools, the Memorandum of Understanding for the SRO program is under current review and it is our intention to ensure each and every school has the support of the Sheriffs Office, division superintendent Mark Taylor wrote in an email to the school community Friday afternoon. The disagreement stemmed from a decision by the Sheriffs Office last month to increase the number of SROs on duty at four county high schools after a Jan. 17 fight at Riverbend High School, a Jan. 23 fight at Courtland High and an incident of trespassing on Jan. 24 at Massaponax High. The four SROs were reassigned to the high schools from four county elementary schools to provide extra security, Sheriffs Office spokeswoman Liz Scott said Friday. SROs are sworn deputies who are qualified to work in a school setting through completion of a specialized training course conducted by the Virginia Center for School and Campus Safety at the Department of Criminal Justice Services. According to the existing memorandum of understanding, which was most recently reapproved by the School Board in March, SROs report directly to the sheriff, and the Sheriffs Office is responsible for their employment, hiring and evaluation. The SROs who were reassigned to Riverbend, Courtland, Massaponax and Chancellor high schools were replaced at the elementary schools by sworn personnel from other divisions within the office, Scott said. Taylor on Jan. 27 requested that the sheriff remove the SROs from the high schools and return to the regular assignment of one SRO per high school on Jan. 30. Taylors request was passed along to the Sheriffs Office in an email from Jeremy Siefker, director of safety for the school division. The email was obtained through a Freedom of Information Act request. Scott responded to Siefkers email the same day. While we appreciate you relaying Mr. Taylors request, on behalf of Sheriff Harris we will not decrease law enforcement presence, Scott wrote. Much of the community has expressed gratitude for the additional safety precautions that have been implemented. We will continue to place the safety of the children and school staff at the highest level. Taylors request to remove the extra SROs from the high schools came before a Jan. 30 email he sent to the school community. This was the first communication from Taylor to the community about the recent incidents. SCPS continues to work with local law enforcement through our office of School Safety and in conjunction with school and division administration to ensure that our children can attend school in a safe environment, Taylor wrote. Division spokesman Jon Russell said Friday that the decision to pull 4 SROs from other schools was made without consultation with the Superintendent. In his email to the school community, Taylor wrote, we firmly believe the presence of a trained SRO in every school, every day is a reasonable expectation of our community. The SRO unit consists of 27 deputies assigned to cover 31 school buildings, Delbert Myrick, a spokesman for the Sheriffs Office, said Friday. We currently have the funding for the SRO vacancies and are actively trying to fill these positions, which were created through attrition, Myrick said. Mark Wright of Fremont has been elected president of the Nebraska Pork Producers Association (NPPA) at a directors meeting held on Jan. 19. Connor Livingston, director of sites and mill operations for Livingston Enterprise based in Fairbury was elected at president-elect and Ryan Priester, a producer from Humphrey, was elected as vice president. Jared Lierman of Beemer will continue to serve as past president. Wright is the assistant manager of the Nebraska division for Wiechman Pig Company and the animal handling and welfare coordinator. Wright, along with his wife Jennifer and daughter, Olivia, reside in Fremont. With over 30 years in the pork industry, Wright brings a comprehensive background to the leadership role. First elected to the NPPA board in 2020, Wright was placed into the officers rotation as vice president in 2021. He was part of the 2020 National Pork Leadership Institute, has represented producers in Washington, D.C., as a participant in the National Pork Producers Council (NPPC) Legislative Action Conference (LAC), and served as a delegate to the National Pork Forum. He represented Nebraska pork producers on a trade mission to Columbia with then Lt. Governor Mike Foley in 2022. Wright will be traveling to Monterrey Mexico in late February on a trade mission with the United States Meat Export Federation (USMEF). Mexico is the largest destination for U.S. pork exports. During the four-day trade mission, he will gain an understanding of Mexicos market dynamics, have market briefings, tour retail outlets to view USMEF activities and merchandising techniques, and take part in promoting U.S. pork at Expo Carnes, the largest meat industry trade show in Mexico. As NPPA president, Wright stated that his goals are to promote the pork industry at the local, state, national, and international levels and to ensure that NPPA is a resource to help Nebraska pork producers be successful now and in the future. I also want to extend my appreciation to NPPAs past presidents for advancing our mission and continually telling our story. Their service to the industry has been invaluable. I am honored to serve the pork industry in Nebraska as president in 2023. The Nebraska Pork Producers Association is a grass roots, incorporated, nonprofit organization established in 1961. NPPA was developed to promote the pork industry through the enhancement of consumer demand, producer education and research. For more information, visit NPPAs website at www.NEpork.org. Photo: The Canadian Press The parents of Amir Locke, who was shot to death by a Minneapolis police officer when a SWAT team executed a no-knock search warrant one year ago, sued the city and the officer Friday, alleging he was gunned down in cold blood in violation of his constitutional rights. Locke, 22, who was Black and had hoped to build a career as a hip-hop artist, was sleeping on a couch in his cousin's downtown apartment when authorities entered without knocking Feb. 2, 2022, as part of an investigation into a homicide in neighboring St. Paul, in which Locke was not a suspect. Body camera video showed that Locke was holding a gun before he was shot seconds after the officers burst in. This has got to stop, Locke's mother, Karen Wells, said at a news conference. Amir will be the face of banning no-knock warrants. He will not die in vain. Prosecutors declined last April to charge any of the officers involved, saying the video showed that Locke pointed a gun at Officer Mark Hanneman, justifying his use of deadly force. But the lawsuit, filed in federal court by attorneys Ben Crump and Jeff Storms, alleges that Hanneman acted too hastily when he fired three times. And it disputes the official assertions that Locke pointed his gun at officers. It seeks unspecified damages and the appointment of an official to ensure that the city properly trains and supervises its officers. Amir, like many Americans, had a handgun within his reach while he slept. Even half-asleep, while Amir reached for the handgun, he demonstrated proper and responsible handling by keeping the handgun pointed away from the officers and keeping his finger off the trigger. Amir never raised the weapon in the direction of any officer or placed his finger on the trigger," the complaint said. "Any reasonable officer would have understood that Amir needed an opportunity to realize who and what was surrounding him, and then provide Amir with an opportunity to disarm himself. Hanneman failed to give Amir any such opportunity even though Amir never pointed the handgun at Hanneman or put his finger on the trigger, the complaint continued. Crump, who has been dubbed Black America's attorney general, has won multimillion-dollar settlements in numerous police brutality cases, including $27 million for the family of George Floyd, whose killing by a Minneapolis officer sparked a nationwide reckoning on race. The City will review the Complaint when it receives it, city spokesman Casper Hill said in an email. Wells compared the video showing her son's death to the video that she forced herself to watch of the beating death of Tyre Nichols by police in Memphis, Tennessee, another person dying by the hands of those that said they're here to protect and serve. ... This can't happen again. Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison and then-Hennepin County Attorney Michael Freeman said when they declined charges that Locke might not have been shot if not for the no-knock warrant. But they said there was insufficient evidence to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that Hanneman violated state law on when police can use deadly force. Locke was killed during the trial of three former Minneapolis police officers in federal court in St. Paul on civil rights charges in the murder of Floyd. Locke's death rekindled distrust of police and sparked fresh protests over policing and racism. And it led Mayor Jacob Frey to sharply restrict no-knock warrants, requiring officers to knock and wait before entering, with limited exceptions. While some lawmakers called for a statewide ban on no-knock warrants, the proposal died in the Legislature last year. Some lawmakers have expressed interest in bringing it back. The complaint alleges that the use of the no-knock warrant that led to Locke's death was consistent with Minneapolis's custom, pattern and practice of racial discrimination in policing. And it alleges that police officials should have known from previous legal actions and citizen complaints involving Hanneman that he didn't understand department policies or constitutional rights. Locke was killed seconds after the SWAT team entered at 6:48 a.m. The body camera video showed one officer unlocking the door and going in, followed by at least four uniformed officers in protective gear. They repeatedly shouted, Police, search warrant! They also shouted Hands! and Get on the ground! The edited video, released the day after, showed an officer kicking a sectional sofa, and Locke was shown wrapped in a comforter, holding a pistol. Three shots were heard and the video ended. I was convinced that the individual was going to fire their handgun and that I would suffer great bodily harm or death," Hanneman wrote in his statement to investigators. "I felt in this moment that if I did not use deadly force myself, I would likely be killed. Crump has previously compared Locke's death with that of Breonna Taylor, who was killed in a botched police raid in Kentucky in 2020 in which her boyfriend shot at officers first as they broke into her apartment. We should have learned from Breonna Taylor, Storms said at the news conference. We had a chance to not make the mistake ourselves. We had the notice as a city. ... So we don't learn from our mistakes and we don't learn from the well-publicized mistakes of others. Locke's cousin, Mekhi Camden Speed, who was 17 at the time of the raid, pleaded guilty last May to aiding and abetting second-degree unintentional murder while committing the felony of aggravated robbery for the Jan. 10, 2022, killing of Otis Elder, 38. The Nebraska Soybean Board has announced that Andy Chvatal has been named as executive director of NSB, effective Monday, Jan. 30. In his position, Chvatal will work on behalf of the states soybean farmers and contribute to the mission of NSB, which is to grow value for Nebraska farmers by maximizing their checkoff investments. Chvatal will work to meet NSBs goals through the leadership of strategic programming in the areas of farmer support, production research, community engagement and demand. He will direct program development, maintain and establish partnerships, and oversee fiscal and contract management. Prior to joining NSB, Chvatal spent eight years as an ag advisor for Frontier Cooperative, overseeing other advisors and assisting farmers with agronomic inputs and new technology. Previous to his career with Frontier Cooperative, he spent four years working in industry relations with NSB. In addition to agribusiness experience, Chvatal also farms with his family near Malmo. Chvatal grew up on a diversified farm near Malmo where his family continues to raise corn and soybeans and manages a breeding heifer operation. He attended Bishop Neumann Catholic High School in Wahoo followed by Nebraska Wesleyan University where he received a bachelors degree in business administration. I am very honored to be back and working on behalf of Nebraska soybean farmers, Andy Chvatal, new NSB executive director, said in a press release We will make sure the checkoff remains a great investment by continuing to maintain relevance for todays progressive farmers, while also balancing the needs of the evolving consumer. The staff and board of directors share a strong passion for agriculture, and Im excited to bring my experiences and ideas to this team. Dear Mr. Dad: I'm almost embarrassed to say this, but I'm sick and tired of hearing parents tell their kids that they're "awesome" or "amazing" or "incredible" or any of the other overused words people use these days. The fact is that most kids aren't any of those things. I'm wondering whether we're doing damage to our society with our nonstop praise. What's your take on this? A: I couldn't agree with you more. We live in an era where we give kids trophies for showing up regardless of how well they play and we rave about everything they do, whether it's rave-worthy or not (and in most cases, it's not). It all started a few decades ago with some very well-intentioned mental health professionals who told us that low self-esteem was the root of all problems. In the mid-1980s, the state of California did a very expensive report on self-esteem that summed up this attitude quite nicely: "Lack of self-esteem is central to most personal and social ills plaguing our state and nation as we approach the end of the 20th century." The solution suggested by those same mental health professionals was to make people (especially kids) feel good about themselves. So we started praising our children more than parents of previous generations did. Over time, that praise ballooned into worship. And the results haven't been pretty. The first casualty was the English language, which lost the use of perfectly good words like "awesome," which no longer means what people think it does. (Does my asking for extra pickles on my sandwich really rate "totally awesome"?) But the true victims of our excessive praise have been our children. Study after study has found that too much praise does exactly the opposite of what we hope: It reduces children's self-esteem, lowers their motivation and discourages them from taking risks, challenging themselves and trying new things. Two types of praise: inflated praise ("That is the most amazing drawing I've ever seen") and personal praise ("You're awesome") are especially likely to backfire, according to Eddie Brummelman, a researcher at the University of Amsterdam. And the lower the kids' self-esteem to begin with, the worse the results. Here's how it works. Our kids aren't idiots. They know perfectly well that you're lying when you say, "That's the most amazing drawing I've ever seen," but they don't want to disappoint you. So next time they have a chance to try something new, they'll opt for something easy. If they end up failing, they'll feel much worse about themselves than kids who receive what's called "process praise," which focuses on the work a child puts in rather than the outcome ("Wow, you got an A you really worked hard on that!" vs. "Wow, you got an A you are incredibly smart!"). Unfortunately, as a culture, we have a tendency to value what we see as natural ability over hard work. Most schools, for example, have programs for "gifted and talented" kids. But according to Stanford mathematics professor Jo Boaler, "Labeling of students as gifted hurts not only the students who are deemed as having no gifts but also the students who are given the gifted label." Sounds counterintuitive, right? But as Boaler explains, calling kids gifted "sets them on a fixed mindset pathway, making them vulnerable and less likely to take risks in order to avoid making mistakes and potentially losing their gifted label." Don't get me wrong: I'm not saying we should never praise our kids. Of course we should. But that praise needs to be sincere and focus on things they can change (hard work, for example) instead of on abstract qualities (like intelligence) that they can't. College of Saint Mary has announced its deans list and presidents honor roll for outstanding undergraduate academic performance for the fall 2022 semester. In total, 143 students were named to the deans list, while 89 were named to the presidents honor roll. To qualify for the College of Saint Marys deans list, students must earn a GPA of 3.5 or higher after completing at least 12 semester hours as a full-time student. For inclusion on the presidents honor roll, students must earn a 3.9 GPA or above. The following area students were honored: Arlington: Anna Moore, pre-nursing, freshman, presidents honor roll. Cedar Bluffs: Madelyn Gaughen, elementary education and special education, freshman, deans list. Dodge: Lilly Praest, pre-nursing, freshman, presidents honor roll. Fremont: Jessica Holcomb, applied psychology and human services, sophomore, presidents honor roll; Lexie Langley, business, senior, deans list. Ithaca: Kelsie Sears, nursing, sophomore, deans list. Kennard: Katelyn Hamre, nursing, junior, deans list. Gov. Jim Pillens school finance and property tax reduction plan would mean more state dollars for every school district in the state enough new dollars for most Omaha metro area districts to reduce their property tax demands by 5% or more. But a World-Herald analysis of the plan to boost state aid to education and special education funding by more than $260 million also raises questions of equity, particularly when it comes to its state aid provisions. The Westside school district, one of the metros wealthiest districts in terms of resident income and property value, would receive enough new state aid dollars under the plan that its per-pupil aid would approach that of OPS a high-poverty district where roughly seven in 10 students qualify for free or reduced price school meals. Westsides gain of $1,500 per student under Pillens plan would raise its total state aid to more than $5,000 per student. OPS, which currently receives just under $5,800 per student from the state, would not receive the $1,500 increase. Millard, Papillion-La Vista, Ralston and Gretna likewise would not receive the additional state aid, despite currently receiving less aid per student than Westside. The reasons for those seemingly contradictory results are complex and largely tied to the large number of Westside students who live outside the districts boundaries and opt in and the big state dollars the district reaps from such student transfers under state law. Pillens plan would further benefit Westside and dozens of other districts across the state that already receive large amounts of option student aid. And that has some suggesting the governors plan could use some tweaking. Wow, thats not good, said State Sen. Justin Wayne, a former OPS school board member. Its crazy that the state aid per pupil (between Westside and OPS) would be about the same when you talk about the different needs. Pillens administration in a statement defended the workings of his plan. The additional aid that would go to districts with option students would provide more property tax relief for residents of those districts, the statement said. The plan also aligns with Governor Pillens vision that funding follow each student an apparent reference to the governors support for providing state dollars for private school choice. Pillen last week rallied in Lincoln with supporters of a bill to offer $25 million worth of tax credits to people donating to private school scholarship funds. Sen. Lou Ann Linehan, who like Wayne is an Omaha senator who serves on the Legislatures Education Committee, cautioned against anyone reading too much into the aid projections at this point. Lawmakers will surely examine such equity issues as the governors plan moves forward. We are at the beginning of a process, Linehan said. I dont think we can expect to fix every wrinkle its complicated. But I think we can make some improvements. Westside officials declined to comment. A number of districts have also been reluctant to publicly state positions on the governors plan, saying they are still studying it. OPS noted in a statement that many pieces of the governors agenda could impact school funding, including the changes to school aid and special education, school budget lids and changes to the way agricultural land is valued. There are currently many moving parts that, when combined, could have a far greater impact than any single piece of legislation, the statement said. There are still essential questions to be addressed for something as important as this. Pillens school funding plan was generally well-received by the states education community when he rolled it out two weeks ago, mostly because all districts would see additional funding. Nebraskas new Republican governor had campaigned on a pledge to send state school aid dollars to all school districts in the state, including the mostly rural, land-rich districts that now often dont qualify for aid. His solution is to guarantee districts at least $1,500 per student in state aid regardless of their current resources and needs. While not all districts would gain dollars under that $113 million proposal, all districts would come out ahead under his plan to provide $157 million in additional state dollars to pay to educate children with disabilities. The governors office provided a draft of the projected funding each district would receive from the school aid and special education increases. It shows total state funding would increase $23 million for OPS, $9 million for Millard, almost $13 million for Westside, $5 million for Bellevue, and almost $6 million for both Elkhorn and Papillion-La Vista. If those new state dollars offset current property taxes dollar for dollar, it would be enough to reduce school tax levies in most metro districts by 5% or more. In OPS, the reduction would be 6% about $157 for a home valued at $200,000 for tax purposes. But Westside would by far benefit the most. It would receive enough new dollars to reduce its property tax request by more than 20% equal to almost $600 in reduced property taxes on a $200,000 home. Learning why begins with understanding how the states current school aid law functions. First, a school districts needs are determined based on student enrollment and other factors, including the percentage of students in poverty or who are learning English as a second language. Then each districts available local funding is calculated. Schools are held accountable for levying property taxes at a minimum level. Any district needs not covered by that minimum levy are then back-filled with state aid dollars called equalization aid. Most metro school districts currently receive such equalization aid. For them, the $1,500 per student in foundation aid under the governors plan simply offsets equalization aid they currently receive. In effect, every dollar of foundation aid in the front door merely pushes an equalization dollar out the back. Like many rural districts, Westsides property resources and needs are such that it doesnt qualify for equalization aid. Thats why under Pillens plan, it would receive the $1,500 in foundation aid for each of its 6,000 students totaling more than $9 million. But while Westside doesnt receive equalization aid, that doesnt mean it currently lacks state aid dollars. It receives substantial funding under another portion of the state aid law school that pays for students who opt into a district from their home school district under the states public school option enrollment program. Remarkably, more than a third of Westsides students are option students. And the state pays $10,625 for each of them. As a result, Westside today receives more state dollars per student than equalization districts like Millard, Ralston and Papillion-La Vista. Pillens plan would widen that gap by another $1,500 per student. Larry Scherer, a Lincoln attorney who as a legislative staffer helped craft the states school aid formula in the 1990s, said that seeming disparity can be traced to the generous way the state funds option students. For example, today when a student attends school in Papillion-La Vista, Nebraska pays about $2,700 in state aid to help educate that student. But if the same student opts into Westside, the state pays almost four times that figure. Scherer couldnt recall why state policymakers decided to fund option students so generously, but said it was likely to keep districts and their taxpayers from being overly burdened by the students who transfer in. Policymakers also surely never imagined back then that a district one day would receive a third of its students through option enrollment. The current $10,625 figure is based on the average statewide per-pupil cost. That is still less than Westsides per-pupil cost of roughly $15,000 the highest among the urban districts in the metro area. While Westside is a relatively high-income district, last year 38% of its students qualified for free or reduced priced meals. Westside certainly isnt the only district receiving heavy option funding that would benefit under the governors plan. There are others throughout the state. For example, Hemingford, a small district in the Panhandle, receives enough option funding that it receives slightly more state aid per pupil than neighboring Alliance, a district that qualifies for equalization aid. Under the governors plan, Hemingford would receive the additional $1,500 per student. Alliance wouldnt. Wayne said he has long had a problem with how the state funds option students compared to other students. With the governors plan potentially increasing that disparity, the funding bears scrutiny, he said. Why is a kid from North Omaha worth less if he goes to his neighborhood school? he said. Without tweaking option funding, Scherer said senators could also simply decide to offset all or part of the governors $1,500 in foundation aid dollars against option dollars, much the same way theyre offset for equalization districts. In principle, it should come off the top, Scherer said. Such a move would also save money for the state, or enable lawmakers to boost the amount of foundation aid for other non-equalization districts above the $1,500 figure the governor has proposed. Several senators said they expect much work on the details of the governors plan as it moves forward. Overall, I think the governors education package is a good start, said Sen. Lynne Walz of Fremont, the former chair of the Education Committee. But there are still details that need to be worked out. Its an opportunity to look at how we fund public education and make sure its equitable for every student. Best school districts in Nebraska Best school districts in Nebraska Firefighter Pam Pabian remembers the call to the intersection of Nebraska Highway 79 and Bottom Road. As a member of the Morse Bluff Volunteer Fire Department, Pabian had answered many calls. But this was for an accident involving a semi at that intersection the same place her teen son, Jesse, and his friend, Eric Chvatal, would have been on a snowy day many years ago. I knew the minute I got that call I had the feeling that it was them, Pabian said. For almost 30 years, Pabian has served her community through the fire department during accidents, fires and even after a tornado. The 5-foot-tall firefighter was the first woman to join it. And at 62, she continues to serve the department, which soon will have 17 firefighters four of whom are women. Pabian is the departments fire prevention coordinator. As part of the Nebraska Fire Prevention Co-op, consisting of 12 rural fire departments, Pabian coordinates a daylong event that attracts hundreds of people who come for fun, but also learn how to prevent fires and other accidents. The event is important to Pabian, who was a child when her familys home caught fire years ago. Growing up in Fernley, Nevada, Pabian recalls when her dad and grandpa, Dale and Kenneth Reed, served on the volunteer fire department there. If she and her three siblings were with the men, they went with them to fires. Pabian was in elementary school when she went to a house fire. Smoke from the fire caused bats to fly out of the bell tower in a church down the street. A child died in the house fire. Pabian and her siblings werent allowed to be close enough to the blaze to see that. But I remember how vividly upset my grandfather was, Pabian said. Grandpa was happy go lucky and I think that was devastating for him, because it was a child. As an adult, Pabian said her biggest fear is having to pull a child, who didnt survive, out of a house fire. Thats why Im so big with the fire prevention, she said. If you can prevent the fire, the child wont be a victim. Pabian was little when she and her family suffered their own loss from a fire. Theyd gone out to a restaurant to eat one night. When they returned home, they saw flames and smoke coming out of the trailer house where they lived. Their home burned to the ground. They lost everything except a television, which was melted and charred, but still worked, and her and her sisters Easter gloves and purses. We were told that while we were gone, the clock that was on the wall above the refrigerator had fallen behind it and started an electrical fire, she said. From that point, I think I always wanted to do something to help people. A few years after the fire, Pabians family moved to Reno, Nevada, where she went to high school. Every time I would hear a siren, I would tune into the sound, she said. It always caught my attention. Pabian met her husband, Duane, in Reno. Originally from North Bend, hed been in the U.S. Army and got a job in Nevada. They met at work. They married and moved to North Bend, where they lived for a year before moving to Morse Bluff in 1981. Theyd become the parents of four children, Jesse, Heather, Keri and Michael. Duane began volunteering with the Morse Bluff Fire Department in the late 1980s. Due to his work schedule, he left the fire department, which Pam joined in 1994. Pabian assumed, at first, shed face conflict from guys who didnt think a woman belonged in the fire department. I didnt run into any of that, she said. They were awesome. They were wonderful people. She trained alongside the men. I never kidded myself that I had the strength of them, she said. If I needed help, I was backed up 100%. I did what I could do. Pabian remembers when one call hit close to home. It was snowing like crazy, Pabian said. That time, Chvatal came in his pickup truck to get Jesse so they could go to North Bend and decorate for prom. On the way, the pickup slid through the intersection of Highway 79 and whats called Morse Bluff Bottom Road, which is at the foot of a hill. Chvatal looked up and saw a semi-trailer truck coming down the hill. He knew he was going to get hit, Pabian said. He gunned it. Chvatal hit the pickups accelerator pedal and the truck driver who saw them moved his rig over a little bit. If the drivers hadnt taken those actions, the semi would have struck the pickup broadside, she said. Instead, the semi hit the back of the vehicle. The pickup spun around several times on the highway. They both made it out of there, she said. They were fine. I was totally relieved. Today, Chvatal is the fire chief of Morse Bluff. Pabian remembers another close call, when a tornado hit North Bend and Morse Bluff in 1999 missing both schools by a block. At the time, she was working at the former Homefront Buyers Guide in Fremont. Shed been watching the storm on radar. I think I need to go, Pabian told her boss. Its headed right for Morse (Bluff). She recalls the drive from Fremont to North Bend and then to Morse Bluff. She thought about the schools, where children were during the storm. It was the worst 15 miles of my life driving from Fremont to North Bend, she said. She remembers learning that the tornado had missed her childrens school. That was exhilarating like a breath of fresh air, Pabian said, adding that then she knew she could concentrate 100% on whatever she needed to do. Driving into Morse Bluff, Pabian saw debris everywhere. Firefighters went door to door making sure people were all right. Pabian went to check on an older woman, who lived alone. The woman had often made kolaches and other treats for Pabians family. I knocked on her door and she had been taking a nap and never even knew anything happened, Pabian said. I loved that woman. During the flood of 2019, Pabian was involved in traffic control on Highway 79. Other firefighters warned people of the flooding and evacuated folks from their homes. Pabian said Morse Bluff firefighters help other area fire departments. Morse Bluff doesnt have a rescue squad and relies on other departments for those services. Shes participated in fundraisers like the departments upcoming pancake feed. The department hosts a Halloween costume contest, too. Pabian is pleased to be part of the Nebraska Fire Prevention Co-ops Fun Day on the Saturday of Fathers Day weekend. The idea behind the event is to help people learn how to keep themselves safe. Pabian smiles when telling how Rhonda Cerny of the Linwood Volunteer Fire Department invited her to a co-op meeting. Im sitting there and an hour later, Im fire prevention coordinator, Pabian said. But everyone helps. Its such a good group, she said. Last year, kids could go through a smoke trailer where they learned to get down low and crawl to find the nearest exit. The Union Pacific Railroad taught about crossing safety. Omaha Public Power District talked about electrical lines. Smokey the Bear made an appearance, too. Pabian and her husband now have nine grandchildren with one on the way. She plans to stay on the fire department and still goes out on calls. The department has had three chiefs, all of whom she describes as wonderful. I really lucked out with this fire department, she said. Weve always had a good member count and I have never not once felt unsafe out on a call with other firefighters. She notes the continual learning process. I learn so much from them, she said. Its just amazing. I learn something all the time. Theres so much to it. The building where Hotel Ranerva once operated almost a century ago now offers two new businesses for the Oakland community. Eden, owned by Jean Schafersman, offers floral arrangements, gifts and event planning. Venue 311, owned by Dale Jones, is available for special gatherings such as weddings, parties or just watching a game on the big screen. After Dale Jones purchased the hotel, Schafersman said, he approached me to possibly rent from him as it had plenty of space for my wedding and event planning business. I had always had the dream of having a storefront flower shop and decided if I was going to do it, now was the time. After walking into the building and meeting Dale, I knew it was a great fit, she said. I love to see old buildings come to life and I knew the hotel would be a grand place to host small events. Schafersman was born and raised on a farm north of Arlington and was active in 4-H for more than 50 years. After retiring from the healthcare field, she decided to start a small business. Eden opened on May 1, 2022. Preparing floral arrangements for my customers goes way beyond just choosing the right flowers, she said. I spend a lot of time listening to people talk about their hopes, their dreams and their losses. Schafersman recalled seeing a man come into her shop needing floral arrangements for his wifes funeral. I probably spent a couple hours just listening to him talk about her, he said. Taking the time to listen as customers share their lives with her is a skill Schafersman developed during her years in healthcare. I had worked at Prairie Fields Family Medicine and at Methodist, she said. A big part of my work was listening to people share what was on their hearts. Both Schafersman and Jones see their work in the historic building on Oakland Avenue as a labor of love. I was probably the first to express interest in renovating it, Jones said. My wife, Linda, and I both love old houses and collecting antiques, and we love Oakland, he said. So this project means a great deal to both of us. We deal with challenges head on, Schafersman said. We are able to problem solve fairly quickly. We laugh and joke a lot, she said. Dale and Linda are great people. They have a servants heart and together we have been able to serve the community well. Upon purchasing the landmark in 2021, Jones initially wanted to restore the 1927 building with minimal change. I wanted it to be something you could go back in time to its beginning, he said. Climbing the 26 steps up the wide stairway will lift you back 96 years. After retiring from farming, Jones was ready to shift his attention to renovating houses, something hes been doing for the past 15 years. A native of Oakland, he continues running the insurance business he had started 43 years ago. I have rehabbed 10 houses, Jones said, and by far this is the biggest project. The floors on both the north first floor and all of the second floor had to be sanded and reconditioned. Theyre all the original oak. All of the wiring on the second floor had to be replaced, he said. Another challenge was matching and staining wood trim to the color and style from 1927. In addition to heading up the renovation project, Jones has also enjoyed learning the hotels rich history. Hotel Ranerva was built by M. L. Trulson, who named it after his two daughters, Ranona and Minerva, Jones said. The north half of the main floor housed Goodyear Tire. The south side, where Eden is now, housed many businesses over the years, including a grocery and dry goods store, a cafe, a pool hall, and a bar, he said. The basement had Ranerva Laundry. Jones also learned that in the 1980s the building was used as a hangout for kids called The Escape, and approximately 25 years ago it was converted into a residence. The numbered doors to the rooms upstairs still have their transom windows for ventilation. The second story was always a rooming house with the caretakers living there, Jones said. There were nine rooms upstairs and five on the main floor. I was told that back in the day, the steam engine trains would pass through and passengers would use the rooms for the night, then get back on in the morning and go on to complete their journey, he said. The large, 10-foot hallway runs the length of the building with the original French doors at the west end leading into the living room. The previous owners son had taken those doors, but I talked him into bringing them back, Jones said. A special piece of furniture in Venue 311 is the 1929 pool table. It doubles as a serving table, Schafersman said. We cover it with a decorative table cloth to match the occasion. Venue 311, which occupies the north half of the main floor, can seat 70 people and has a full kitchen. The original tin ceiling had to be prepped, Jones said, and some of it had to be replaced as the roof had leaked over time. Its been repainted. The second floor now functions as a VRBO (Vacation Rental By Owner). Four of the rental units include a bedroom, a living room and a bathroom, Jones said. One unit also includes a dining room with a shared kitchen. Schafersman added other thoughts. The upstairs will allow wedding parties to dress for the ceremony, she said. And the bridal couple can stay for their honeymoon. Jones said he got a steal of a deal on the gold-colored, upholstered chairs used in Venue 311, paying a mere $2 for each one. All we had to do was paint the wood black, Linda said. Much of the antique furniture has been donated by the community. Everyone has been very receptive to the work being done, Jones said. Theyre very supportive. Schafersman said she loves how people gather here to discuss the future. I have been most impressed with the friendships that have lasted for greater than 50 years, she said, and the people that return to the community to retire. Some of Oaklands retirees stop in for coffee and offer to help watch the shop while Schafersman is out running errands. I have been blessed with the best when it comes to my merchandising, marketing, and design team as well as my bookkeeping and gift store staff, Schafersman said. We are a team thats more like a family. Schafersmans husband, Mark, is a cardiovascular sonographer at Methodist Fremont Health. He does not have the desire to operate a business, but wants me to be happy, she said. He can see that I am doing good for people and providing a good product for the community. He is very supportive. Schafersman and her husband, Mark, have three sons: Todd, Byron and Seth. Todd joked that his mom may be a little nuts for doing what shes doing, but he is quick to acknowledge how hard she has worked to fulfill this dream of hers. Now that shes retired, shes doing something shes always wanted to do, he said. She loves what shes doing. And if you do what you love, Byron said, you never have to work another day in your life. Im proud of her to be accomplishing that. Schafersman shared a little business philosophy. I am a strong supporter of small business, Schafersman said. We have all reached out to each other. I love young people and have a young lady come from the high school on Mondays to work for a few hours. A few young men from the high school come and work a few hours a week doing the heavy lifting. We had an open house at Christmas which was attended very well. Both Jones and Schafersman are proud of Oaklands strong Swedish heritage. Our small community has been very acceptive of Eden Events, Gifts, and Floral and Venue 311, Schafersman said. People want to see progress and by updating the hotel they see progress. LB 662 is bad for The Good Life Local control and keeping our families together essential aspects of The Good Life in Nebraska are threatened by LB 662. Imagine this waking nightmare: your water is contaminated, your rural road is overrun and torn up by heavy trucks and semi-trailers, your property has become nearly unlivable and so devalued that you may never be able to sell it, and your air is polluted by noise, odor, and particulates that sicken you, your family and your pets. Sounds unimaginable, right? Now, add this: you have no legal recourse against the operation that caused this nuisance unless you own a majority interest in land thats affected by it AND your property is no farther than a half-mile from the nuisance-creating operation AND you file a lawsuit no later than one year after the awful conditions reach the level that they are considered a legal nuisance. LB 662 protects multi-billion-dollar corporate livestock producers from legal liability for the damage they do to their neighbors except for a small class of majority property owners who also live less than -mile from the offensive operation. LB 662 will: Restrict the fundamental right of Nebraskans to the peaceful use and quiet enjoyment of their own homes and land. Discourage housing development, impeding economic growth and opportunity. Limit the traditional and normally inviolable authority of local governments to decide how best to serve and protect their residents and businesses to make their cities more livable and inviting to young families whose parents would like to see them stay in Nebraska. Make Nebraska an investment target to out-of-state and foreign interests to own and operate nuisance-creating agricultural operations that are protected from legal liability and located as far as possible from their own homes and shores. Nebraskans should email state senators urging opposition to LB 662. Tell them you dont want them to vote for a bill that takes away your property rights, your personal freedoms, your municipalitys local control, and your childrens opportunity to stay in Nebraska without fear of invasion by out-of-state and foreign business interests. Tell them to preserve The Good Life. Nancy Meyer Cedar Bluffs On Jan. 5, 2023, I took the oath of office to become the 33rd Attorney General serving the great State of Nebraska. By taking the oath, I joined the peoples law firm, teaming up with the professionals already hard at work representing Nebraskans across the state. Over the coming months, we will update you on the work we are doing for you. In this column, I want to give you an overview of our office. The Attorney General has a variety of responsibilities, and we have specific departments (which we refer to as bureaus) organized to fulfill our duties. Here are a few: We have bureaus focused extensively on crime, with criminal prosecution, criminal appeals, and Medicaid fraud teams. These groups investigate and prosecute crimes across the state, with a particular emphasis on helping prosecute crimes in greater Nebraska. We also handle all appeals in criminal cases, conduct victim advocacy, fight the scourge of human trafficking, and work to support law enforcement around the state. Our natural resources bureau serves to protect Nebraskas natural resources. Among their important obligations is to protect Nebraskas rights to its water, such as enforcing compacts with other states. We represent the State of Nebraska in civil court cases while also advising state agencies on legal questions that they might have. The office has a consumer protection bureau, which helps protect Nebraska consumers. These attorneys often join with other states fighting against companies who are harming Nebraska consumers (such as our pending case against Google) while focusing on those bad actors in the state who try to scam or defraud Nebraska consumers, in particular elderly Nebraskans. We also defend the rights of Nebraskans, especially when the federal government or states violate the United States Constitution. In those cases, our Solicitor General stands in court to defend Nebraskans and our founding documents. Our office has many more responsibilities; a few additional examples include enforcing the open meetings laws, enforcing compliance with medical licensing statutes, and providing opinions at the request of the Nebraska Legislature and executive agencies. As we head into the new year, we will ensure that these obligations of the office are discharged with the degree of professionalism and skill that Nebraskans expect and deserve. Other challenges loom. One such challenge involves Nebraskas water rights under the 1923 Nebraska-Colorado Compact. That agreement gives Nebraska rights to significant flows from the South Platte River during the non-irrigated season if Nebraska builds the Perkins County Canal. In 2022, while serving as Speaker of the Legislature, I worked with then-Governor Ricketts to pass LB 1015 and provide a down-payment appropriation of over $50 million to build the canal. Governor Pillen, in his State of the State address, announced his administrations commitment to fully fund the completion of this critical infrastructure project. As Attorney General, we will protect Nebraskans rights under that Compact. There also exists crucial courtroom fights with the Biden Administration. Time and again, whether through executive orders or rulemaking, the Biden Administration has acted outside of the scope of constitutional authority. State attorneys general provide a critical check to federal overreach. Our office is in the courtroom defending the Constitution one example is Biden v. Nebraska, in which Nebraska has challenged the Biden Administrations $400 billion decision to cancel student loan debt without congressional authorization. The Supreme Court will hear argument from our office in February, and we will be in Washington, D.C., to ensure that the separation of powers framework in the Constitution is protected. As the year unfolds, challenges and issues will arise that we do not yet know about today. When they do, we will tackle them with first-class legal work, attention to detail, a spirit of public service, a focus on justice, and with the rights and interests of Nebraskans always at the forefront of our minds. I would encourage you to visit our website (https://ago.nebraska.gov/) to learn more about our work. In addition, Id encourage you to follow us on Twitter @NEAttorneyGen and Facebook as we communicate the work of the office. It is an honor to serve you as Attorney General, and on behalf of the professionals in our office, thank you for the opportunity to serve. We look forward to the work ahead in 2023. Mark down January, 2023, as the month the Water Wars of the West began in earnest. Four incidents this month point to intensifying skirmishing ahead as the fight is joined over the dwindling amount of water carried by The Colorado River. The Wests most important waterway has reached a crisis point because of a 23-year megadrought, earning the designation of most endangered river in America. Our reporters hear that the state Attorney Generals Office is lawyering up for a possible onslaught of litigation over who has rights to what water across seven Western states in the Colorado River Basin. Here are three battlegrounds that have emerged just this month. More are sure to come: Western Slope vs. Wall Street Is water the new oil? That was the question posed by a joint investigation by CBS News and The Weather Channel about a Wall Street firms possible water speculation outside of Grand Junction. Private investment firms are showing a growing interest in an increasingly scarce natural resource in the American West: water in the Colorado River. For some of the farmers and cities that depend on the river as a lifeline, that interest is concerning, CBS wrote. The scarcer a commodity becomes, the more valuable it grows (think housing or diamonds), and the story explored whether a company called Water Asset Management is looking to make some serious financial gain off of Colorados pain. The Madison Avenue hedge fund has bought at least $20 million of land in western Colorado in the past five years. WAM President Matthew Diserio has called water in the United States "a trillion-dollar market opportunity." Andy Mueller, general manager of the Colorado River Water Conservation District, told CBS that it is clear WAM wants the water, not the land, betting theyll be able to sell some of the water rights at big profit as demand outstrips supply. The question is, what happens to the farms in Grand Valley if that happens do they dry up and blow away? "I view these drought profiteers as vultures," Mueller said to CBS. "They're looking to make a lot of money off this public resource. Water in Colorado, water in the West, is your future. Without water you have no future." There are laws against water speculating in Colorado that require people to put their water rights to beneficial use, such as irrigating a farm, delivering tap water for a city, or releasing more water into rivers for recreation. But beneficial is pretty broad, so the laws are too weak to stop what Water Asset Management is doing, which they say is improving farms by making them more efficient so they can sell parts of its water rights to other farmers and cities in need. Just the way outside investors drove up prices in Colorados housing market, look for more hedge funds to see big dollar signs in buying up Colorado water rights in the future. Ranchers and farmers vs. hedge funds may be the new Cowboys and Indians of the West. City vs. suburb Sign Up for Springs AM Update Your morning rundown of the latest news from Colorado Springs and around the country Sign Up View all of our newsletters. Success! Thank you for subscribing to our newsletter. View all of our newsletters. Earlier this month, the city of Scottsdale, Ariz., turned off the tap for the unincorporated suburb of Rio Verde Foothills, blaming the megadrought. Scottsdale said its own residents must come first and the city could no longer sell water to 1,000 people in 500 to 700 homes just beyond the city limits. Rio Verde residents now scramble each week to buy water at much higher prices on the open market from other sources and brokers, and in a mad dash to conserve, are flushing their toilets with rainwater, eating off paper plates, skipping showers and taking laundry to friends houses in Scottsdale, according to recent media reports. Its a perfect example of what happens when runaway growth slams into shrinking water supplies. A variation on this theme is happening right now in Colorado Springs. The most powerful developer in Colorado Springs, Norwood Development Group, in order to get the city to prioritize water for its in-city developments over future suburban annexations, threatened to ask voters to approve a stringent water rule that could block new annexations for decades. With that threat hanging over it, the city adopted a similar, but less restrictive standard that still prioritizes water for Norwood developments, according to a story by Gazette reporter Mary Shinn. Norwood's measure could have blocked the city from growing in size for 20 to 30 years because of the water requirements it insisted on, Mayor John Suthers told Shinn. A cynic might say Norwood is leveraging drought fears to strong arm the government into preferential treatment. Anyone for a replay of Chinatown? Colorado, Wyoming, Utah, Arizona, New Mexico, Nevada vs. California In response to a Jan. 31 deadline set by the federal government for proposed Colorado River water usage cuts from the seven basin states, six states agreed on a plan while California begged off, proposing its own plan. Most notable about what was suggested by Arizona, Utah, Wyoming, Colorado, New Mexico and Nevada in the Jan. 31 letter to the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation is that the lower basin states Arizona, Nevada and California would take into account evaporation as water is transported across the desert when they tally how much water they use from the river, which they dont now. That means big cuts in usage to account for those losses. The agreement also said lower basin states should accept additional cuts to water use if the level at Lake Mead falls below certain elevations. No way, said California. Its plan has no evaporation losses built into it and hints at bigger cuts for Arizona and Nevada, while preserving California's senior water rights that give it first dibs on Colorado River water. CNN reported that during negotiations, representatives from Californias powerful water districts proposed cutting off some of the Wests biggest cities including Phoenix and Las Vegas in favor of California agriculture. Cities versus farms could become the biggest battleground of all in the future. If all seven states cannot agree on a single plan together, the Bureau of Reclamation promises to impose arbitrary cuts on all states. And water officials said that almost certainly will provoke a flurry of lawsuits. Then the wars that are heating up now will be fought in a new ring by new contestants courtrooms and lawyers. But make no mistake: Though developers, hedge funds and lawsuits have replaced hired guns, raiding parties and six shooters, the Waters Wars of the West have truly begun. Photo: The Canadian Press A sixth Memphis officer was fired Friday after an internal police investigation showed he violated multiple department policies in the violent arrest of Tyre Nichols, including rules surrounding the deployment of a stun gun, officials said. Preston Hemphill had previously been suspended as he was investigated for his role in the Jan. 7 arrest of Nichols, who died three days later. Five Memphis officers have already been fired and charged with second-degree murder in Nichols death. Hemphill was the third officer at a traffic stop that preceded the violent arrest but was not where Nichols was beaten. On body camera footage from the initial stop, Hemphill is heard saying that he stunned Nichols and declaring, I hope they stomp his ass. Also Friday, a Tennessee board suspended the emergency medical technician licenses of two former Memphis Fire Department employees for failing to render critical care. The suspensions of EMT Robert Long and advanced EMT JaMichael Sandridge build on efforts by authorities to hold officers and other first responders accountable for the violence against Nichols, who was Black. Six Black officers have been fired and charged with second-degree murder and other charges. One other officer has been suspended. The Justice Department has opened a civil rights probe into the attack that was captured on video. Three fire department employees were fired after Nichols died. Former fire department Lt. Michelle Whitaker was the third employee let go, but her license was not considered for suspension Friday. The department has said she remained in the engine with the driver during the response to Nichols' beating Jan. 7. He died Jan. 10. Emergency Medical Services Board member Jeff Beaman said during Friday's emergency meeting that there may have been other licensed personnel on scene including a supervisor who could have prevented the situation that led to the death of Nichols. Beaman said he hopes the board addresses those in the future. Matt Gibbs, an attorney for the state Department of Health, said the two suspensions were not final disposition of this entire matter. Board members watched 19 minutes of surveillance video that showed Long and Sandridge as they failed to care for Nichols, who couldn't stay seated upright against the side of the vehicle, laying prone on the ground multiple times. They also considered an affidavit by the Memphis Fire Department's EMS deputy chief. The (state) Department (of Health) alleges that neither Mr. Sandridge nor Mr. Long engaged in emergency care and treatment to patient T.N., who was clearly in distress during the 19 minute period, Gibbs said. Board member Sullivan Smith said it was "obvious to even a lay person" that Nichols was in terrible distress and needed help. And they failed to provide that help, Smith said. "They were his best shot, and they failed to help. Fire Chief Gina Sweat has said the department received a call from police after someone was pepper-sprayed. When the workers arrived at 8:41 p.m., Nichols was handcuffed on the ground and slumped against a squad car, the statement said. Long and Sandridge, based on the nature of the call and information they were told by police, failed to conduct an adequate patient assessment of Mr. Nichols, the statement said. There was no immediate response to a voicemail seeking comment left at a number listed for Long. A person who answered a phone call to a number listed for Sandridge declined to comment on the boards decision. An ambulance was called, and it arrived at 8:55 p.m., the statement said. An emergency unit cared for Nichols and left for a hospital with him at 9:08 p.m., which was 27 minutes after Long, Sandridge and Whitaker arrived, officials said. An investigation determined that all three violated multiple policies and protocols, the statement said, adding that their actions or inactions on the scene that night do not meet the expectations of the Memphis Fire Department. Nichols was beaten after police stopped him for what they said was a traffic violation. Video released after pressure from Nichols family shows officers holding him down and repeatedly punching, kicking and striking him with a baton as he screamed for his mother. Six of the officers involved were part of the so-called Scorpion unit, which targeted violent criminals in high-crime areas. Police Chief Cerelyn CJ Davis said after the videos release that the unit has been disbanded. The killing led to renewed public discussion of how police forces can treat Black citizens with excessive violence, regardless of the race of both the police officers and those being policed. At Nichols' funeral on Wednesday, calls for reform and justice were interwoven with grief over the loss of a man remembered as a son, a sibling, a father and a passionate photographer and skateboarder. In Colorado, when a patient is sedated for surgery, it is legal for medical providers to perform unrelated intimate exams on the unconscious patients genitals without their consent. Lawmakers are trying to change that with House Bill 1077. If passed by the state legislature, the bill would prohibit medical providers from performing intimate exams on unconscious patients including pelvic, prostate, breast and rectal exams without the patients written consent ahead of time unless in emergency situations. While presenting the bill, sponsor Rep. Jenny Willford, D-Northglenn, shared the story of a woman who was sedated for a knee surgery, then learned she received a pelvic exam while she was unconscious after her doctor said she had started her period. In a pelvic exam, a doctor inserts their fingers into a patients vagina. Consent matters in every context and situation, Willford said. Patients can be traumatized, betrayed and can suffer emotionally as they cope with unauthorized intimate exams, and my bill outlines rules for patient consent to protect Coloradans when theyre at their most vulnerable. Research shows intimate exams often occur on sedated patients as a way for medical students to practice. A 2019 survey of students from seven American medical schools found that 92% of medical students had performed a pelvic exam on an unconscious female patient, of which 61% said they did not have explicit consent from the patient. Regional surveys from the early 2000s reached similar conclusions. At the University of Oklahoma, a majority of medical students had performed pelvic exams on unconscious women and nearly 75% of the patients did not consent to the exam. Among medical students in Philadelphia, 90% said theyd performed pelvic exams on unconscious women and they werent sure if the women consented. Twenty-one states have already outlawed performing pelvic exams on unconscious patients without consent, including California, New York and Texas, according to the Epstein Health Law and Policy Program. The American Medical Association has also explicitly disavowed the practice. In any other situation this would be sexual assault, said Medha Gudavalli, a medical student and member of the Colorado Coalition Against Sexual Assault, testifying in support of the bill. We need laws like this to clearly uphold patient autonomy. ... Generations of medical students are not learning how to properly consent patients. The House Health and Insurance Committee unanimously approved the bill Friday morning, sending it to the House Appropriations Committee for further consideration. Democrats and Republicans alike stood behind the bill, in addition to the Denver Health and Hospital Authority, Colorado Trial Lawyers Association, Coloradans for Legal Freedom, Colorado Coalition Against Sexual Assault, Colorado Psychiatric Society and Violence Free Colorado. No one opposed the bill, though the Colorado Hospital Association is seeking to amend the bill to remove liability of hospitals if an employee violates the new law. No official amendments have been introduced. I cant believe this isnt already the law, said Rep. Kyle Brown, D-Louisville, while voting in support of the bill. The fact that we have to pass a bill to ensure basic safety of patients, to ensure that theyre not being sexually assaulted is abhorrent. Officials have identified the Fountain police officer critically injured after falling from a bridge during a pursuit Thursday night. The three suspects arrested after the pursuit have also been identified. The injured Fountain police officer, identified as officer Julian Becerra, is in stable but critical condition after falling 40 feet from a bridge south of Colorado Springs while attempting to apprehend a carjacking suspect. Becerra is recovering at a local hospital with his family and other Fountain officers by his side. Becerra has been employed with the Fountain Police Department for 4 years and is assigned to the patrol division as a K9 officer; his K9 was not with him during the incident. According to a verified GoFundMe, he is married with two children. The driver who allegedly led Colorado State Patrol and police on the chase, 31-year-old Devon Bobian, and passenger 32-year-old Anthony Vallejos, had felony arrest warrants, officials said. The two men, plus another passenger, 28-year-old Danisha Pacheco, are facing numerous felony charges after being arrested on the bridge Thursday night, police announced. I'm at the Fountain Police Department waiting for a press conference on the FPD officer who was critically injured falling off a bridge south of Colorado Springs Thursday while apprehending carjacking suspects in a stolen vehicle. @csgazette pic.twitter.com/TppVSPHYEy Annika Schmidt (@annikaschmidt_) February 3, 2023 Officials said the trio had evaded law enforcement for hours before being arrested Thursday night. Around 4 p.m. Thursday, Fountain Police Departments Directed Investigation Community Engagement Team was asked to assist the Department of Corrections Parole Unit in locating a carjacking suspect from the Pueblo area who had active felony warrants. Officials said the suspect was driving a stolen vehicle and was possibly traveling north on I-25 from Pueblo. Multiple law enforcement agencies were assisting to locate the stolen vehicle. At approximately 5:30 p.m., the stolen vehicle was spotted by officers near a Lowe's store near North Academy and Platte Avenue. However, police said the vehicle driver was driving recklessly and officers lost track of the car. The vehicle was located again at 7:15 p.m., traveling south on I-25 toward Fountain. Officers tracked the vehicle to the area of Highway U.S. 85-87 and Alegre Circle, but were unable to stop the vehicle. Law enforcement followed the stolen vehicle at a high rate of speed south on U.S. 85-87, when the driver merged onto the northbound lanes of I-25 but heading south, police said. Due to the dangerous nature of the pursuit, officers stopped following the vehicle. The suspect vehicle eventually made a U-turn and began traveling northbound in the northbound lanes of I-25. Officers set up at a stationary, perimeter position observed the vehicle pull into the Loves Travel Plaza in the 5500 block of Travel Plaza Drive, where the suspects allegedly commit a carjacking at gunpoint in the parking lot. They were unsuccessful, and police resumed the pursuit northbound on I-25. Sign up for free: Springs AM Update Your morning rundown of the latest news from Colorado Springs and around the country overnight and the stories to follow throughout the day delivered to your inbox each evening. Sign Up View all of our newsletters. Success! Thank you for subscribing to our newsletter. View all of our newsletters. The suspect vehicle exited I-25 at South Academy, and the high-speed pursuit ended shortly after the occupants allegedly attempted to carjack another vehicle at gunpoint near South Academy Boulevard and Hartford Street, east of Interstate 25. Cristiani said the vehicle was disabled by a tire deflation device, and finally stopped by a tactical vehicle intervention method called a PIT maneuver, which involved more than one law enforcement vehicle ramming into the stolen vehicle, which has been identified as a tan or beige Hyundi Tucson. One of the suspects exited the vehicle, and was trying to evade Fountain police on foot. While attempting to apprehend the suspect, also on foot, Becerra fell from the South Academy Boulevard bridge into the creek bed. South Academy spans over the Fountain Creek near the highway U.S. 85-87. Cristiani said they do not have clarity on the cause of the fall, which is under investigation by the El Paso County Sheriff's Office. A video of the incident circulating on social media shows police cruisers pursuing a vehicle on what appears to be the northbound lanes of South Academy. The video then shows the suspect vehicle spin out and crash into a guardrail. Several cruisers crash into the vehicle from behind, and multiple officers exit their cruisers. A person in a hoodie can be seen in the video exiting the suspect vehicle, and appears to climb on top of the car before jumping off in an apparent attempt to flee officers. As the suspect jumps from the vehicle, one officer appears to fall over the guardrail. Cristiani extended gratitude to the agencies and medical personnel on the scene, who worked for approximately one hour to recover Becerra from his location and get him into a helicopter. He was taken by the Flight for Life helicopter to a local hospital in "critical condition." As of Friday afternoon, he remains in "critical but stable," condition, officials said. South Academy was closed between I-25 and Drennan Road Thursday night during and after the incident. "I would like to convey again my sincerest thoughts and prayers for our Fountain police officer Becerra who was seriously injured yesterday evening while protecting our citizens from a dangerous threat to our community. I offer my sincerest concerns and regards to his family and want them all to know that Fountain is behind them," said Mayor of Fountain Sharon Thompson on Friday. Donations can be made to the Becerra family by following this link: csppa.org/fallen-officer-relief-fund/. When completing the online donation form, please check the Designated box and enter Julian Becerra in the Designated Officer Name field. The battle for control of the El Paso County Republican Party returned to court Friday, as the state GOP and its chair filed a motion to dismiss a lawsuit filed earlier this week by the local party and its chair over who gets to run next week's leadership elections. The dispute stems from longstanding allegations by party stalwarts and numerous current and former local elected officials that El Paso County GOP chair Vickie Tonkins is biased against some Republicans and can't be counted on to run the county party's upcoming Feb. 11 reorganization meeting fairly. Tonkins, who is seeking a third term heading the county organization and roundly denies the allegations, counters that her detractors are instead struggling to regain the dominance they lost in recent party elections when a new wave of Republicans many inspired by former President Donald Trump swept them from power. Despite a vote by the state GOP's central committee on Tuesday to install a neutral team to administer the county's leadership elections, Tonkins and her allies say they have the law on their side and are pressing ahead with their original plans to conduct the meeting under her supervision. At the same time, the party regulars designated by the state GOP have begun organizing a separate meeting scheduled to take place at the same time, only at a location across town creating the spectacle of simultaneous, competing party officer elections, with both sides claiming theirs will yield the only legally recognized El Paso County Republican Party. That's where the burgeoning courtroom conflict comes in. A lawsuit filed Monday by Tonkins, the county party and six of its precinct-level leaders argues that the state party is overreaching and doesn't have the authority to "meddle" in the local party's internal business by imposing outsiders to oversee its leadership elections. Sign up for free: Springs AM Update Your morning rundown of the latest news from Colorado Springs and around the country overnight and the stories to follow throughout the day delivered to your inbox each evening. Sign Up View all of our newsletters. Success! Thank you for subscribing to our newsletter. View all of our newsletters. In a 13-page filing in Arapahoe County District Court, Colorado GOP chair Kristi Burton Brown and the state party argues that under settled Colorado law, the state Republican and Democratic parties' central committees not the courts are the "final arbiters" and "sole tribunal" of controversies within the parties. The motion also cites recent court decisions that rebuffed arguments similar to the one Tonkins and the county party are making. It also declares that the state party's authority to resolve its own internal disputes is protected under the First Amendment's guarantee of freedom of association. Accordingly, Burton Brown and the state GOP maintain that the court lacks jurisdiction to rule on the complaint filed by Tonkins and the others and asks the court to "summarily dismiss" it. Burton Brown declined to comment on the filing, which was authored by the state GOP's longtime legal counsel, Chris Murray, an election law attorney with Denver-based Brownstein Hyatt Barber Schreck, one of the most politically connected and powerful law firms in the country. Brad Bergford, a lawyer at Denver-based Illumine Legal and one of the attorneys representing Tonkins and the El Paso County party, told Colorado Politics on Thursday that his clients intend to ask the court to issue a temporary restraining order and injunction against the state party to prevent it from taking over the county party leadership election. By 6 p.m. Friday, however, that motion had yet to be filed with the court. He shrugged off Burton Brown's and the state party's filing. "We briefly looked at the motion to dismiss and remain confident that our position will be confirmed by the courts based upon the firm legal footing which we believe state law and the parties bylaws provide," Bergford said in an email. Northbound S. Nevada Avenue was closed Saturday morning at Southgate Road as police investigated a crash that landed a woman in the hospital with serious injuries. Police said a woman was crossing the street just before 8 a.m. when she was struck by a truck. Police said the woman was around 60 years old, but no other identifying information has been made available yet. No information about the driver or the vehicle has been released as of 9:30 a.m. As of this articles last update, police expected the road to be closed for a few more hours. Read more at KKTV.com. The Colorado Springs Police Department plans to release body camera footage of any "significant event" such as an officer-involved shooting or death in custody, within 21 days of the incident. "This is about us being transparent with our community and was largely started by the Transparency Matters report that was done last year," said Lt. Pamela Castro, Colorado Springs police spokeswoman. The department's new policy standardizing the approach for the release of information regarding "critical incidents" is a specific recommendation of the 200-page Transparency Matters report on the department's use of force, released in April. This new policy, discussed in a January briefing, goes a step beyond what Colorado House Bill 21-1250 now requires of every state and municipal law enforcement agency in the state to provide body camera footage within 21 days of a request. Even in the case of active ongoing investigations, law enforcement agencies are still to release video within 45 days. Colorado Springs police say they will automatically release video footage of significant events, with no outside request required. The city's current Law Enforcement Transparency and Advisory Committee chairman D'Ontay Roy said he felt the policy change was a step in the right direction. "I don't know if it's going to quell a lot of the tension, but it is a step forward," he said. Castro added that the new policy officially took effect Wednesday. She added that the policy was developed as a result of the Transparency Matters report, at the direction of Police Chief Adrian Vasquez who took office last year, as opposed to a reaction to any particular incident. Department officials cautioned that there could be multiple reasons why video from some incidents are not made public in the 21-day time frame. In situations where there is an ongoing investigation, such as a police use of force during an arrest, there could be a delay in video release. Officials said specific legal proceedings, such as an impaneled grand jury or a court order from a judge, would also halt the release of any video. Castro said that when there is a delay the department intends to give an explanation as to why video of a given incident is not released. Other departments' approaches "We absolutely support transparency in law enforcement," Lt. Deborah Mynatt with the El Paso Sheriff's Office said regarding the policy. "We're pretty much aligned." The Sheriff's Office routinely investigates situations in which Colorado Springs police officers use force, and vice versa. While Mynatt said the Sheriff's Office was still discussing internally whether to copy the Colorado Springs policy entirely, she said the department was definitely working on internal procedures to ensure it would be compliant with state statutes. Taylor Pendergrass, ACLU Colorado's director of advocacy and strategic alliances, said that his office had not heard of other Colorado departments being as proactive and transparent with its bodycam footage policy, which he applauded. The Parker Police Department earned praise from the ACLU for its then nation-leading bodycam use policies. Though that policy doesn't specifically set a time period for the release of video footage, a spokesman with the department confirmed that it would comply with new state statutes. The Denver Police Department includes a link to the state law on its records request page, though it, too, does not seem to have any sort of automatic bodycam footage release policy. Castro said the department's new policy was modeled after other agencies, including the Los Angeles Police Department. Sign up for free: Springs AM Update Your morning rundown of the latest news from Colorado Springs and around the country overnight and the stories to follow throughout the day delivered to your inbox each evening. Sign Up View all of our newsletters. Success! Thank you for subscribing to our newsletter. View all of our newsletters. In 2018, the Los Angeles City Council passed an ordinance requiring L.A. police release relevant video of officer-involved shootings within 45 days of the shooting. The new policy also requires the release of video anytime an officer uses force that results in a suspect going to the hospital. That policy came into play last month when Keenan Anderson, cousin of a Black Lives Matter co-founder, was involved in a auto crash. He was acting erratically after the crash and officers attempted to detain him, according to reports. In the ensuing struggle, he was hit with a stun gun multiple times. He died hours later of a heart attack. Nine days after the arrest, the department released a video of the incident. In the video, a department spokesperson gives a brief introduction, followed by segments of different officers' bodycam footage. Captions and context text were added to the video. Colorado Springs police intend to add similar elements to its video releases. "Our goal is to let the digital evidence such as 911 call, body-worn camera, and radio traffic speak for itself," Castro said. "LAPD does more narration than we plan to do but the loose framework is similar." Transparency issues "It's expected and good to see departments in compliance with these laws," Pendergrass said. "It's critical to see the law come into effect," he added, saying that as incidents happen both the public and law enforcement agencies will adjust to not having the usual fights over if and when to release videos from police use of force incidents. "Those fights will be a thing of a past, and I think that will be a good thing for law enforcement as well as the public," he said. The policy change, announced before the release of the graphic bodycam footage of the fatal beating of Tyre Nichols in Memphis, Tenn., comes at a pivotal moment for Colorado Springs police. In the Transparency Matters report from last spring, a survey of the general public and police department employees found that both groups would like to see more transparency and fewer delays in the release of bodycam footage. The Police Department has had its own incidents surrounding use of force and bodycam footage in recent years, including costing the city multiple cash settlements to marchers protesting police brutality in 2020 after they sued the city alleging unnecessary force in their arrests. A year before that came the killing of De'Von Bailey, a 19-year-old who was shot in the back by Colorado Springs officers. CSPD initially rejected public calls for the release of the bodycam footage, but later reversed that decision and released video within two weeks of the incident. That footage showed Bailey fleeing from police when he was shot and killed, but also confirmed that he possessed a gun, which officers said they were fearful he was reaching for when they opened fire. A grand jury would later decide not to press charges against the two officers in the case, though the city would settle a wrongful-death suit of nearly $3 million with Bailey's family. Roy points toward the Bailey case as an example of how, even when video evidence is swiftly provided, there can still be a significant difference of opinion about the outcome. "It's a tool that can help the public, and the police in policing," said Roy, "but it isn't always a solution." The Law Enforcement Transparency and Advisory Committee chair also said cases like the recent one of Dalvin Gadson Ochoa, where an Oct. 9 traffic stop led to a violent arrest, highlighted the possible benefits of releasing footage quickly. Gadson Ochoa's lawyer received and released bodycam video of the arrest roughly eight weeks after the fact. Most charges against Gadson Ochoa were later dropped. Roy said he would love to see an automatic video release each time police use force, not just after a "significant event," though he says that's likely an unrealistic use of resources. "Still," Roy asks, "would we have ever seen the Gadson video if he didn't decide to sue?" A former Cripple Creek police sergeant arrested on suspicion of sexual misconduct while on duty and blackmail may have more victims than previously believed, according to the Colorado Bureau of Investigation. According to an affidavit obtained by The Gazette, Alexander Kenoyer, 36, is accused of continued sexual contact with a woman who was an alleged victim of sex trafficking. "During the course of the investigation ... agents discovered several explicit images and videos possibly from the internet of women who may have been photographed/filmed by Kenoyer without their consent, or who may have been aware they were being photographed/filmed but unaware it was being shared on the internet," the CBI news release said. CBI encouraged anyone who believes they may have had inappropriate contact with Kenoyer while he was still a police officer to call 719-662-2662. According to the affidavit, Kenoyer's encounter with the current known victim began over text message in 2021 and became more sexual into spring of 2022, with the two first meeting to have sex at a local hotel in November 2021. The affidavit states sexual text messages between the two were intertwined with the woman occasionally asking about her case and for other legal advice. Texts also revealed alleged sexual contact between the two in Kenoyer's office at the Cripple Creek police station and in his police vehicle. The relationship fell apart because Kenoyer would not leave his wife, according to the affidavit. Sign up for free: Springs AM Update Your morning rundown of the latest news from Colorado Springs and around the country overnight and the stories to follow throughout the day delivered to your inbox each evening. Sign Up View all of our newsletters. Success! Thank you for subscribing to our newsletter. View all of our newsletters. An Internal Affairs probe by the Police Department and CBI into Kenoyer's alleged misconduct was launched in August 2022, according to the initial news release by the Police Department. When the woman spoke with the Cripple Creek Police Department that month, she told detectives that she was "being blackmailed by Kenoyer" and that she "had been 'coerced and blackmailed' by Kenoyer into writing a letter to Chief Bright stating they 'supposedly didn't have any sex,'" according to the affidavit. The detective was placed on administrative leave on Aug. 24 and resigned from the department on Oct. 25., before the end of the internal investigation, according to previous reporting by The Gazette. Kenoyer posted a $10,000 bond after his arrest on Dec. 20, according to court records. Kenoyer is facing two counts of unlawful sexual conduct by a peace officer while on duty and one count of attempt to influence a public servant; all three charges are felonies. His next court appearance is scheduled for March 6. More than 31,000 instances of road rage and aggressive driving were reported in Colorado last year, according to a news release from the Colorado State Patrol (CSP). In fact, in 2022, CSP received more calls for aggressive drivers than for suspected impaired drivers. According to the release, of the 57,899 calls answered by Colorado State Patrol emergency dispatchers, 51 percent (31,760) were in regard to road rage or aggressive driving a 4.5 percent increase since 2021. Road rage behaviors can include, but are not limited to: Tailgating Honking in anger Making angry gestures Passing on the right Showing a weapon Excessive speeding Weaving in and out of traffic Getting out of the vehicle to confront another driver Sign up for free: Springs AM Update Your morning rundown of the latest news from Colorado Springs and around the country overnight and the stories to follow throughout the day delivered to your inbox each evening. Sign Up View all of our newsletters. Success! Thank you for subscribing to our newsletter. View all of our newsletters. If someone cuts you off, tailgates or makes a rude gesture, you may be tempted to get even but just dont. No one ever thinks anger will turn to violence, but it can and it does," said Chief Matthew C. Packard, Colorado State Patrol in the release. Your best response is to keep your composure, let the aggressive driver move on and do not engage. Its simply not worth your energy or the risk. Officials want to encourage drivers to call *CSP (*277), if they witness dangerous road rage such as someone trying to block another vehicle from changing lanes or running red lights to engage in confrontation. "If you see these behaviors you are encouraged to find a safe spot to pull over and call *CSP with a description and location of the vehicle," the release said. The University of Colorado Colorado Springs and Pueblo Community College have partnered to invest in future college students and industry professionals with the opening of the UCCS Pre-Collegiate Success Center in the Pueblo campuss academic building. The success center will provide enrichment programs for middle and high school students that will help them prepare for higher education and navigate college, which can be complex and confusing especially for first-generation and military-dependent students. We are really losing many students because they dont know how to navigate, said UCCS Chancellor Venkat Reddy. The pre-collegiate success center on the Colorado Springs campus has combated this; now, with the program at PCC, UCCS hopes to extend its reach to help more students, with initiative funding from CU President Todd Saliman. Reddy and PCC President Patty Erjavec attended an event Friday to celebrate the center opening and sign a memorandum of understanding that will create a pathway for students to earn an associate's degree in engineering at PCC before moving on to UCCS to earn a bachelor's in mechanical engineering. Administrators with PCC have been working with UCCS to develop a two-year associates engineering degree that will directly translate into UCCS bachelor's in mechanical engineering curriculum. The pathway will ease the process of receiving credit when transitioning into the four-year degree program. The memorandum will benefit students like Joseph Flores, a veteran and mechanical engineering student at the community college who plans to transfer to UCCS in January 2024. The partnership helps clear a pathway. Theres no researching or bouncing around; you go to one university, and they direct you where you need to go, he said. It helps me because I got out of the military, and I dont know too much about college. Sign up for free: Springs AM Update Your morning rundown of the latest news from Colorado Springs and around the country overnight and the stories to follow throughout the day delivered to your inbox each evening. Sign Up View all of our newsletters. Success! Thank you for subscribing to our newsletter. View all of our newsletters. Flores moved to Pueblo over a year ago and plans on working in the automotive field in the city following graduation, fulfilling a greater goal of the pathway: serving local industry need. Erjavec said the pathway will benefit industry professionals and help meet a demand for qualified engineers in Pueblo. We really pay attention to what the needs are and for quite a while weve been hearing that its difficult for our business and industry partners, especially the industrial part, to attract highly qualified, highly skilled engineers, she said. David Garski is an engineering leader with air conditioning systems, services and solutions company Trane in Pueblo. Garski said there is growing need for engineers, especially in the microelectronics and heavy manufacturing industries. He cited a need for around five engineers annually, at Trane alone, which speaks to the larger industry in Pueblo. The engineering pathway and new pre-collegiate center are positive for community industries and the two partnering institutions, but Reddy says, the partnerships are for the students. The University of Colorado is Colorados university. We are not just committed to serving students in that community, we are committed to serving students in El Paso County, in Colorado and beyond, Reddy said. We are not considering this a partnership. We are really one team serving the state of Colorado. Photo: The Canadian Press FILE - An American flag is flown next to the Chinese national emblem during a welcome ceremony at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, Nov. 9, 2017. Secretary of State Antony Blinken has postponed a planned high-stakes weekend diplomatic trip to China as the Biden administration weighs a broader response to the discovery of a high-altitude Chinese balloon flying over sensitive sites in the western United States, a U.S. official said Friday.(AP Photo/Andy Wong, File) UPDATE: 11:57 a.m. The United States on Saturday downed a suspected Chinese spy balloon off the Carolina coast after it traversed sensitive military sites across North America and became the latest flashpoint in tensions between Washington and Beijing. An operation was underway in U.S. territorial waters in the Atlantic Ocean to recover debris from the balloon, which had been flying at about 60,000 feet and was estimated to be about the size of three school buses. President Joe Biden had told reporters earlier Saturday that "were going to take care of it, when asked about the balloon. The Federal Aviation Administration and Coast Guard worked to clear the airspace and water below the balloon as it reached the ocean. Television footage showed a small explosion, followed by the balloon descending toward the water. U.S. military jets were seen flying in the vicinity and ships were deployed in the water to mount the recovery operation. Officials were aiming to time the operation so they could recover as much of the debris as possible before it sinks into the ocean. The Pentagon had previously estimated that any debris field would be substantial. The balloon was spotted Saturday morning over the Carolinas as it approached the coast. In preparation for the operation, the FAA Administration temporarily closed airspace over the Carolina coastline, including the airports in Charleston and Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, and Wilmington, North Carolina. The FAA rerouted air traffic from the area and warned of delays as a result of the flight restrictions. The Coast Guard advised mariners to immediately leave the area because of U.S. military operations that present a significant hazard. Biden had been inclined to down the balloon over land when he was first briefed on it on Tuesday, but Pentagon officials advised against it, warning that the potential risk to people on the ground outweighed the assessment of potential Chinese intelligence gains. The public disclosure of the balloon this week prompted the cancellation of a visit by U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken to Beijing scheduled for Sunday for talks aimed at reducing U.S.-China tensions. The Chinese government on Saturday sought to play down the cancellation. In actuality, the U.S. and China have never announced any visit, the U.S. making any such announcement is their own business, and we respect that," Chinas Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement Saturday morning. China has continued to claim that the balloon was merely a weather research airship that had been blown off course. The Pentagon rejected that out of hand as well as Chinas contention that it was not being used for surveillance and had only limited navigational ability. The balloon was spotted over Montana, which is home to one of Americas three nuclear missile silo fields at Malmstrom Air Force Base. The Pentagon also acknowledged reports of a second balloon flying over Latin America. We now assess it is another Chinese surveillance balloon, Brig. Gen. Pat Ryder, Pentagon press secretary, said in a statement. Chinas Ministry of Foreign Affairs did not immediately respond to a question about the second balloon. Blinken, who had been due to depart Washington for Beijing late Friday, said he had told senior Chinese diplomat Wang Yi in a phone call that sending the balloon over the U.S. was an irresponsible act and that (Chinas) decision to take this action on the eve of my visit is detrimental to the substantive discussions that we were prepared to have. Uncensored reactions on the Chinese internet mirrored the official government stance that the U.S. was hyping the situation. Some used it as a chance to poke fun at U.S. defenses, saying it couldnt even defend against a balloon, and nationalist influencers leapt to use the news to mock the U.S. China has denied any claims of spying and said it is a civilian-use balloon intended for meteorology research. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasized that the balloon's journey was out of its control and urged the U.S. not to smear it based on the balloon. ORIGINAL: 10:47 a.m. The Biden administration is considering a plan to shoot down a large Chinese balloon suspected of conducting surveillance on the U.S. military, by bringing it down once it is above the Atlantic Ocean where the remnants could potentially be recovered, according to four U.S. officials. One of the officials, who spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss the sensitive operation, said President Joe Biden had given the go-ahead. In a brief remark Saturday in response to a reporters question about the balloon, Biden said: Were going to take care of it. The balloon was spotted Saturday morning over the Carolinas as it approached the Atlantic coast. In preparation for the operation, the Federal Aviation Administration temporarily closed airspace over the Carolina coastline, including the airports in Charleston and Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, and Wilmington, North Carolina, until at least 2:45 p.m. EST Saturday. Biden had been inclined to down the balloon over land when he was first briefed on it on Tuesday, but Pentagon officials advised against it, warning that the potential risk to people on the ground outweighed the assessment of potential Chinese intelligence gains. The public disclosure of the balloon this week prompted the cancellation of a visit by U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken to Beijing scheduled for Sunday for talks aimed at reducing U.S.-China tensions. The Chinese government on Saturday sought to play down the cancellation. In actuality, the U.S. and China have never announced any visit, the U.S. making any such announcement is their own business, and we respect that," Chinas Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement Saturday morning. China has continued to claim that the balloon was merely a weather research airship that had been blown off course. The Pentagon rejected that out of hand as well as Chinas contention that it was not being used for surveillance and had only limited navigational ability. The balloon was spotted over Montana, which is home to one of Americas three nuclear missile silo fields at Malmstrom Air Force Base. Meanwhile, people with binoculars and telephoto lenses tried to find the spy balloon in the sky as it headed southeastward over Kansas and Missouri at 60,000 feet (18,300 meters). The Pentagon also acknowledged reports of a second balloon flying over Latin America. We now assess it is another Chinese surveillance balloon, Brig. Gen. Pat Ryder, Pentagon press secretary, said in a statement. Chinas Ministry of Foreign Affairs did not immediately respond to a question about the second balloon. Blinken, who had been due to depart Washington for Beijing late Friday, said he had told senior Chinese diplomat Wang Yi in a phone call that sending the balloon over the U.S. was an irresponsible act and that (Chinas) decision to take this action on the eve of my visit is detrimental to the substantive discussions that we were prepared to have. Uncensored reactions on the Chinese internet mirrored the official government stance that the U.S. was hyping the situation. Many users made jokes about the balloon. Some said that since the U.S. had put restrictions on the technology that China is able to buy to weaken the Chinese tech industry, they couldnt control the balloon. Others called it the wandering balloon" in a pun that refers to the newly released Chinese sci-fi film called The Wandering Earth 2. In a sign of censorship, the wandering balloon hashtag on Weibo was no longer searchable by Saturday evening. Still others used it as a chance to poke fun at U.S. defenses, saying it couldnt even defend against a balloon, and nationalist influencers leapt to use the news to mock the U.S. The U.S. is hyping this as a national security threat posed by China to the U.S. This type of military threat, in actuality, we havent done this. And compared with the U.S. military threat normally aimed at us, can you say its just little? Their surveillance planes, their submarines, their naval ships are all coming near our borders, Chinese military expert Chen Haoyang of the Taihe Institute said on Phoenix TV, one of the major national TV outlets. China has denied any claims of spying and said it is a civilian-use balloon intended for meteorology research. On Saturday, Chinas Ministry of Foreign Affairs again emphasized that the balloon's journey was out of its control and urged the U.S. not to smear it based on the balloon. Wang said China has always strictly followed international law, we do not accept any groundless speculation and hype. Faced with unexpected situations, both parties need to keep calm, communicate in a timely manner, avoid misjudgments and manage differences. Alfred Wu, an associate professor at the National University of Singapore, said Chinas apology did not appear sincere. In the meantime, the relationship will not improve in the near future ... the gap is huge. A large crowd gathers in the Florida State Capitol fourth-floor rotunda in Tallahassee, Florida for the "Stop the Black Attack" rally on Jan. 25, 2023. Attorney Ben Crump threatened to file a lawsuit against Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, his administration and the ban of a proposed Advanced Placement course on African America Studies in Florida high schools on behalf of three Leon County, Florida, school students. (Alicia Devine/Tallahassee Democrat) Sometimes people who want to show you how clever they are only end up exposing their own ignorance. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis stumbled into that hole in a news conference just before Black History Month, as he tried to explain why he supported his education departments rejection of an Advanced Placement African American Studies course created by the nonprofit College Board. Advertisement State officials announced in January that they had rejected the course because of six areas of concern Black Queer Studies, Intersectionality, Movement for Black Lives, Black Feminist Literary Thought, The Reparations Movement and Black Struggle in the 21st Century. Also blocked were works by Angela Davis; Kimberle Crenshaw, a pioneer of critical race theory; and Gloria Jean Watkins, more widely known as bell hooks, among other Black authors. Advertisement DeSantis objection: The boards newly created Advanced Placement curriculum on African American history offers a lesson on queer theory that may run afoul of the states new Parental Rights in Education law, mocked by its critics as the Dont Say Gay law. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis speaks after being sworn in to his second term at an inauguration ceremony outside the Old Capitol in Tallahassee on Jan. 3, 2023. (Lynne Sladky/AP) Actually, that law applies mainly to third graders and below, not so much to college-bound high schoolers. But, asked for examples of what troubled him about the AP test, which is administered to high schoolers nationwide, the governor quickly came up with queer theory. This course on Black history, he told reporters, what (is) one of the lessons about? Queer theory. Now, who would say thats an important part of Black history, queer theory? That is somebody pushing an agenda on our kids. Actually, I know more than a few scholars and others who would say James Baldwin, Audre Lorde, Langston Hughes and Chicagos very own Lorraine Hansberry, just to name a few iconic Black gay and lesbian figures of the recent past who would argue that queer theory covers an important part of Black history and American history, too. But the DeSantis administration decided earlier this month to bar high school students from taking the new course, claiming its lessons run contrary to the Dont Say Gay law and that it significantly lacks educational value. Thats when two prominent Democratic governors who, like DeSantis, are often mentioned as hopefuls for the 2024 presidential race, stepped in and suggested DeSantis should butt out. Dont bow to the political grandstanding of DeSantis or Floridas racist and homophobic laws, wrote Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker in a strongly worded letter reported by the Chicago Sun-Times and NBC News, and refuse to bow to political pressure that would ask you to rewrite our nations true, if sometimes unpleasant, history. Advertisement California Gov. Gavin Newsom took to Twitter: DeSantis has decided black history is irrelevant and lacks educational value, he tweeted. Dont Say Gay > Dont Say Black. Gentlemen, gentlemen! Fortunately, the College Board released a decision that sounded downright Solomonic in balancing the concerns voiced by both sides. Some of the most controversial names or concepts have been moved from the main curriculum to a section of optional choices, reducing the sense that certain people or ideas are being rammed down the students throats. Neither version of the AP African American Studies curriculum mentioned critical race theory, which has become a trigger word for the political right, mostly for reasons as detached from reality as a QAnon theory. Professor Crenshaw is not mentioned, although some of her theories are. While CRT is seldom explicitly taught outside of universities, the term itself has become an object of fixation for many conservatives, who object to K-12 schools emphasizing racism and other forms of discrimination. Advertisement In other words, like any great compromise, plenty remains to displease both sides but also enough for both sides to declare victory and go home until the next historic argument. Theres another old saying that in academic arguments, the fighting is furious because the stakes are so small. Such is not the case here, where the stakes involve the schooling of the next generations. And, who knows? They could help decide the next president, too. It is astonishing, James Baldwin once said, that in a country so devoted to the individual, so many people should be afraid to speak. Surprisingly, thats still true. In todays political culture, people talk a lot about being afraid to speak. But a bigger problem, I find nowadays, is that too many people are afraid to think. cpage@chicagotribune.com Advertisement Twitter @cptime A Colorado legislative committee advanced a bill Wednesday that would allow licensed psychologists be certified to prescribe and administer psychotropic medications. Currently, if a psychologist providing therapy or counseling decides their patient needs medication such as antidepressants, they must refer the patient to a psychiatrist or medical doctor to get a prescription. But due to a lack of prescribers in Colorado, this process can take months to complete and forces patients to pay for care twice. If House Bill 1071 passes the full legislature, the more than 3,000 psychologists operating in Colorado would soon be eligible to prescribe themselves. In comparison, there are only around 600 psychiatrists currently operating in Colorado. Not having access to medication when you need it isnt just a little bit inconvenient, said bill sponsor Rep. Judy Amabile, D-Boulder. Its life-altering consequences for many people. It could mean a loss of your job, divorce, custody battles, criminal justice involvement, hospitalizations, ER visits and suicide. Too many people cant get the care that they need in a timely fashion. This effort comes as the 2022 State of Mental Health in America report ranked Colorado as the worst state in the country for adult mental health. The year before, Childrens Hospital Colorado declared a state of emergency for youth mental health, as suicide became the leading cause of death for Colorado children ages 14 to 19. In Denver, the city with the highest concentration of psychiatrists in the state, wait times for prescribers are upwards of six months, said the bills other sponsor Rep. Mary Bradfield, R-Colorado Springs. In addition, Bradfield said, in Colorado only 12% of patients who are sent to another office for mental health care complete their treatment, compared to 77% of patients offered the same care in their current office. The bill, at its core, is about expanding access to care, access to life saving medication, Bradfield said. Access to mental health treatment is strained in our state and inadequate to meet the rising needs in all four corners of Colorado. The best way to prevent serious mental health emergencies is to ensure that people receive the mental health treatment and services they need, when they need it. The House Public and Behavioral Health and Human Services Committee voted 10-1 in support of the bill Wednesday, advancing it to the full House for consideration. Only Rep. Tammy Story, D-Conifer, voted against the bill. While the bill received bipartisan support from legislators, the mental health community is divided. Dozens of psychiatrists and psychologists testified during Wednesdays committee meeting, arguing for more than four hours about the validity of the bill. Opponents in the psychiatric industry raised concerns about allowing non-medically trained psychologists to prescribe medications, saying they do not understand how medications impact the body or how physical illnesses can manifest as mental health issues. Psychiatric medications affect all of the bodys systems, said Dr. Nadia Haddad with the Colorado Psychiatric Society. "The mind does not exist in a vacuum. Psychiatric medications can cause fatal heart arrhythmias, diabetes, high blood pressure, thyroid problems, liver and kidney issues." Sign up for free: News Alerts Stay in the know on the stories that affect you the most. Sign Up For Free View all of our newsletters. Success! Thank you for subscribing to our newsletter. View all of our newsletters. Under the bill, a psychologist could apply for conditional certification to prescribe medication if they, in part, have a doctorate in psychology, a masters degree in clinical psychopharmacology, pass the national psychopharmacology exam and hold professional liability insurance. The states Board of Psychologist Examiners would determine if they receive certification. Psychologists would hold conditional certification for two years, during which time they could only prescribe and administer medications under the supervision of a physician or nurse. After two years, the psychologist could apply for full certification and work without supervision, so long as they maintain their license, their insurance and complete at least 20 hours of continuing education annually. Supporters of the bill pointed out the two-year supervision period for prescribing psychologists as well as the permanent requirement that they inform a patients primary care doctor of what is being prescribed as making the program safe. These psychologists will be able to enhance the care they provide to their patients in a proven, safe manner that will be of tremendous value to the entire state, said Dr. Brian Beaumund, president of the Colorado Psychological Association. Psychologists can already prescribe mental health medication in five states New Mexico, Louisiana, Illinois, Iowa and Idaho as well as in the U.S. military. In New Mexico and Louisiana, deaths by suicide were reduced by between 5% and 7% since psychologists were granted prescriptive authority, according to Healthier Colorado. Nationally, there are around 250 prescribing psychologists currently operating. From 2005 to 2021, there were only 14 board complaints against prescribing psychologists half of which were dismissed and only two of which resulted in payments to the plaintiffs, according to Trust Risk Management Services, which provides liability insurance for psychologists. While bill supporters championed this data as evidence that the program is successful in other states, opponents argued that there only being 250 prescribing psychologists nationwide shows that the program would not meaningfully increase access to prescribers in Colorado. "This bill does not provide a viable solution to address the complex needs of children and families who are struggling to get the quality behavioral health care they deserve, said Dr. Cassie Littler, president of the Colorado Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics. It undermines the decades of hard work that weve done as a state to provide comprehensive, integrated behavioral health care. However, many Coloradans who are struggling to find mental health care testified Wednesday that lawmakers need to do something to improve the current system. Amelia Federico, a Denver college student, said she sought care for severe depression in high school, searching for several months before finding a therapist that accepted her insurance, had availability and who she felt safe with. After meeting with the therapist for weeks, she was recommended anti-anxiety medication. She was then told shed had to restart the process of finding a provider all over again. While researching psychiatrists, Federico learned that the average copay was around $100, not including the cost of the medication. She said that is the cost of a months worth of groceries for her. In the end, I could not pay for both a psychiatrist and a therapist, so I was not afforded the luxury of the medication that I desperately needed, Federico said. Situations like this are the reality we will continue to live in if we do not work collectively to pass this bill. The congressman who represents El Paso County and its iconic military installations says his role chairing a key House subcommittee means he'll be better positioned to advocate for robust national security while promoting the interests of his district. U.S. Rep. Doug Lamborn, a Colorado Springs Republican, was reelected to a ninth term last fall and won the gavel on the House Armed Services Subcommittee on Strategic Forces last week under the GOP's new majority. He served as the panel's ranking member the minority party's senior lawmaker in the last Congress. With a portfolio that encompasses nuclear weapons, missile defense and the military's mission in space, Lamborn said one way to understand the subcommittee's domain is that it has influence over "weapons systems that will deter a nation from ever attacking the United States." "I can't think of a better way of representing the interests of the 5th Congressional District, as well as the entire defense of the United States, at the same time," Lamborn said in an interview with Colorado Politics. Calling hypersonic weapon systems "the next frontier," Lamborn said that the cutting-edge technology maneuverable rockets and missiles that travel at least five times faster than the speed of sound will be a top priority for the subcommittee. "At one point, we created and were in the lead on this, decades ago, but we kind of let it go," Lamborn said. "Now China and to some extent Russia have surpassed us, and we need to play catch-up." He said the Pentagon needs to beef up its ability to test the weapons right away. "We have very limited testing capability. We do have some promising things that are being worked on, on the drawing board, and prototypes are being built, but we don't have operational systems in hypersonics at all," he said. Congress will have to allocate more money to get those next-generation weapons on track, Lamborn said, but that additional spending will likely be minor compared to what he described as more expensive ongoing upgrades to nuclear weaponry. "With hypersonics, we're only talking about a few billion dollars compared to some of the big-ticket items," he said. "The more expensive thing that comes within our committee that has a lot of dollars attached to it is nuclear modernization." Sign up for free: News Alerts Stay in the know on the stories that affect you the most. Sign Up For Free View all of our newsletters. Success! Thank you for subscribing to our newsletter. View all of our newsletters. That program, begun during the Obama administration, involves updating aging weapons that are part of the nation's nuclear triad, including land-based intercontinental ballistic missiles, long-range missiles carried on submarines, and long-range bombers equipped with nuclear cruise missiles and bombs. "Those are all needing to be modernized, and that's expensive," Lamborn said. "So that is the big-ticket dollar item that we are needing to make sure stays robust." Lamborn said he's keeping an eye on China's aggressive moves into the nuclear arena, where the country has recently become a "major player." "China is is now breaking out when it comes to nuclear forces," Lamborn said. "Now they are trying to equalize or surpass the U.S. in terms of numbers of nuclear warheads and other strategic assets." Lamborn said he's concerned that the U.S. is more in the dark than it should be on that front, since China isn't a party to international arms control treaties between the U.S. and Russia. "They're really building up their forces fast, and they're a wild card right now," he said. "I'm very concerned about that, and that's a real priority for our subcommittee." Lamborn added that he plans to press the Biden administration on their response to the threat, which he characterized as inadequate. "We'll be bringing them before us, putting them on the hot seat," he said. Lamborn said he anticipates the Pentagon budget won't be affected much if at all by House Republican demands for sweeping budget cuts in exchange for raising the federal debt ceiling, which allows the government to borrow money to meet obligations that have already been approved. "I think at the end of the day, defense will be protected because there's strong bipartisan agreement, and that we live in a dangerous world and it's not getting any safer for the foreseeable future," Lamborn said. Colorado Springs Democratic Rep. Stephanie Vigil won approval Thursday for her bill that would extend last year's free transit program, designed to get people out of their cars during high ozone season. The program, first established under a 2022 bill known as "Zero Fare for Better Air" made transit options - buses throughout the state and light rail along the Front Range - free during the month of August, traditionally part of the metro area's high ozone watermark. House Bill 1101 won a party-line 8-3 vote from the House Energy and Environment Committee Thursday. The bill now heads to the full House for review. Sixteen transit agencies from around the state participated in the 2022 program, according to the Colorado Association of Transit Agencies, although another 17 provide free transit year-round, mostly in mountain communities. The program comes with an annual cost for 2022 and 2023 at $28 million, although not all transit agencies participated, including two of the state's largest: the Roaring Fork Transportation Authority and Grand Valley Transit, in Grand Junction. A spokesperson for Roaring Fork said they are still evaluating their driver workforce to see if they will participate this year. Many of the participating transit agencies reported increased ridership during August 2022 compared to August 2021, with Pueblo reporting a 59% increase. Ridership in Colorado Springs went up 62%, said Vigil, who said she is a regular rider. But ozone season isn't strictly limited to summer, so the 2023 bill House Bill 1101 provides flexibility to transit agencies to designate a different time during the year as their peak ozone season. That's particularly a problem for the Western Slope, where the worst ozone problems are in the winter, not summer, said Rep. Elizabeth Velasco, D-Glenwood Springs. Her home county of Garfield has earned an "F" for ozone, she said. Sign up for free: News Alerts Stay in the know on the stories that affect you the most. Sign Up For Free View all of our newsletters. Success! Thank you for subscribing to our newsletter. View all of our newsletters. The 2023 version doesn't come with a price tag. The 2022 bill provided for a second year of the program, although the 2023 bill changes some of the grant rules to allow agencies more latitude in how those grants are spent, including rolling over funds into future years to continue the free service or marketing the program to area residents. The bill was amended to address concerns raised by the Regional Transportation District around continuation of the grant funding. Rep. Ken DeGraaf, R-Colorado Springs, raised a number of questions about the program's efficacy and whether it's accomplishing what taxpayers are paying for. Is this just a good idea to spend money on, or does it actually lower ozone levels in a given community? he asked. RTD did look into some of those benefits, according to Cindy Copeland, air and climate policy advisor for Boulder County, but looking only at a month doesn't exactly provide that kind of data. Recognizing regional differences in peak ozone seasons, this legislation provides additional flexibility to transit agencies to improve and expand the free rides program this year," Vigil said in a statement Thursday. Co-sponsor Rep. Jennifer Bacon, D-Denver, said they were excited to see the significant ridership increases statewide. Strengthening the program "will further reduce passenger car trips, cut down on harmful emissions and support communities by saving passengers money on fares. The drinking water of tens of thousands of Security, Widefield and Fountain residents was found to be tainted by toxins called perfluorinated compounds, or PFAS in January of 2016. The toxins were traced back to firefighting foam from Peterson Air Force Base. Now, southern El Paso County residents have been included in national health study on toxic chemicals in drinking water. Meanwhile the EPA struggles to address, regulate and study the toxins--which affect millions of Americans across the county. Colorado lawmakers continue to fight for funding to cleanup and reimburse the affected water utilities. On August 22, the Air Force Academy reported that the same toxic chemicals polluting the southern El Paso County aquifer were found in groundwater at the academy. Follow the Gazette's full coverage here. The Brazilian Navy announced on Friday that it had sunk the former Foch aircraft carrier filled with asbestos, paint and other toxic waste in the Atlantic Ocean, a decision criticized by several environmental organizations. The planned and controlled sinking occurred late Friday afternoon, some 350 km off the Brazilian coast, in an area approximately 5,000 meters deep, the navy said in a statement. Earlier in the week, she felt she had no other choice given the very degraded state of this old hull 266 meters long, described as toxic package of 30,000 tons by the Robin des Bois association. Faced with the risks involved in towing and because of the deterioration of the hull (), the only solution is to abandon the hull by sinking it in a controlled manner, explained the navy on Wednesday in a joint press release. with the Brazilian Ministry of Defence. Asbestos, paints and toxic waste The Federal Public Ministry of Brazil (MPF), which tried to stop the operation by multiplying the appeals to the courts, warned of the consequences, stressing this week that the aircraft carrier currently contains 9.6 tons of asbestos, a substance with toxic and carcinogenic potential, as well as 644 tonnes of inks and other hazardous materials. There is a risk of serious environmental damage () in particular because the hull is damaged, argued the public prosecutor. Same story on the side of the environmental NGOs Greenpeace, Sea Shepherd and Basel Action Network, which denounced a violation of three international treaties on the environment. This sinking will cause incalculable damage, with impacts on marine life and coastal communities they decried in a joint statement. Preventing this operation would be probably unnecessary, given the imminence of a spontaneous sinking of the hull, which would not benefit the environment and would be likely to endanger the lives of the crew involved. in towing, for his part wrote the judge of the federal court of the state of Pernambuco (northeast), according to the G1 website. The magistrate authorized the operation although he considered it a tragic and regrettable solution, according to G1. An area some 350 km off the Brazilian coast, 5,000 meters deep, was considered the safest for this scuttling, according to the press release from the Brazilian Ministry of Defense and Navy. Environmental crime Two weeks ago, the navy announced that it had taken the former aircraft carrier in tow in the Atlantic. It was previously towed by a Dutch tug for the Turkish shipyard Sok Denizcilik. She had specified that in view of his state of degradation and the high risk he represented for the environment, she would not authorize his return to a port or to Brazilian territorial waters. Several NGOs then expressed their fear of seeing Brazil commit an environmental crime. This flagship of the French Navy, transferred to the Brazilian flag in 2000, has long wandered at sea in search of a port of refuge. Built at the end of the 1950s in the shipyard of Saint-Nazaire, in western France, it was for 37 years in the service of the French navy, before being bought in 2000 by Brazil, which renamed Sao Paulo. But due to its dilapidation and a series of problems linked in particular to a fire in 2005, and when its modernization would have cost too much, Brasilia decided to get rid of it. The Sok Denizcilik shipyard bought her for scrap in April 2021 but threatened to abandon her because they could not find a port to receive her. In June 2022, she obtained authorization from the Brazilian authorities to ferry her to Turkey for dismantling. But when he is at the end of August at the level of the Strait of Gibraltar, the Turkish environmental authorities let it be known that he is no longer welcome. Brazil made him turn around but without authorizing him to dock despite the finding of aggravation of damage to the hull. On January 19, the Dutch tugboat ALP Guard operating on behalf of the yard began to move away from the Brazilian coast, after having spent several months off Pernambuco. But a court decision prohibited him from sailing in international waters without prior authorization from the Brazilian authorities. This is why the Brazilian public environmental agency Ibama, responsible in Brazil for the application of the Basel Convention on the cross-border movement of hazardous waste, ended up requesting an intervention from the Brazilian Navy. If the talented young women who created Radiant Gradient, the fascinatingly caustic new show on view at Theater Wit, were hoping to be invited back to Northwestern University by that schools Panhellenic Association, they might be waiting as long as Meghan Markle will have to wait to be invited for tea with Camilla Parker-Bowles. Markle, of course, is both a graduate of Northwestern and a Kappa Kappa Gamma, an A-list sorority that can now dangle her name in front of nervous pledges who want to follow in the footsteps of the Duchess of Sussex. But Jasmine Sharma, the recent Northwestern graduate who wrote this play, and Grace Dolezal-Ng, a fellow graduate, who directed it for Shattered Globe Theatre hardly are all-in with the Greek system. On the contrary, their very impressive show is an unstinting exploration of the impact of the Greek recruitment system on vulnerable young women, especially women of color. And while they dont definitively specify the school at which these events are taking place, lets just say that Jason Lynchs lighting design is familiar with purple. Advertisement Ive seen plenty of progressive young artists go after elite institutions in my time. But this one is notable not just for the force of its point of view, but for the precision of the barbs. This pull-no-punches play was written from the inside and if Shattered Globe can find a way to get the word out to Northwesterns Greek Row, theyll pack their theater. As well they should. Radial Gradient is a lousy title that wont sell a ticket on its own. But its a play with heartfelt outrage, savvy awareness of complexity and so many details about the Greek ways of doing things that the program even contains a glossary for those who did not spend quality college time on the Greekrank.com site and for whom rush meant running for a bus. Ive spent plenty of quality time on campuses in my life but I learned plenty, including that the word smart applied to a pledge means acceptable and cute is a counterintuitive code word for reject. Advertisement Isabelle Muthiah and Kianna Rose in "Radial Gradient" by Shattered Globe Theatre at Theater Wit. (Michael Brosilow / HANDOUT) As this show, which premiered Monday night after emerging from a Shattered Globe workshop process, we meet three decently acted students: Anjana (Simran Deokule) and Gigi (Isabelle Muthiah) are two best friends, both women of color although Gigi can present as white. Theyre going through pledge week, or whatever. They find that their recruitment counselor is Melanie (Kianna Rose), a Black graduate student who is conducting a less-then-ethical research study. Sharma has as whole lot to say here, much of it involving how a system so fundamentally rooted in judgment and elitism has learned how to speak the new campus language of equity and inclusion without actually changing the fundamentally damaging way it functions. Theres some zesty lampooning of diversity chairs, planning panels no one shows up to, and a wry observation of how the need to support inclusion usually devolves into an extra course load for students of color. But theres also a strong note of melancholy about how the system not only breaks up preexisting friendships, but means that elite young minority women also have to navigate an often hidden hierarchy of skin color and popularity, of race and ethnicity (not the same), even within those communities themselves. Sharma is not done: Melanie cant defend a dissertation she apparently has yet to write so that needs fixing, along with the title, and I think the play is better when it departs from familiar left-leaning politics (which, unsurprisingly, are less than sympathetic toward sororities) and focuses on the pervasive human cost of all these new rules clashing with old but resilient prejudices. But this is the kind of exciting new voice, and potential fresh audience, that Chicago theater badly needs. Sharma should not hold back. Maybe Meghan will put her on her podcast. The most powerful moment in a new play well worth a trek with your brothers or sisters from Evanston? When Gigi says, we all just trying to figure out how to operate. Arent we all. Chris Jones is a Tribune critic. cjones5@chicagotribune.com Review: Radial Gradient 3 stars) Advertisement When: Through March 11 Where: Shattered Globe at Theater Wit, 1229 W. Belmont Ave. Running time: 1 hour, 30 minutes Tickets: $45 ($15 for students) at 773-770-0333 or sgtheatre.org/gradient A proposal to limit cities attempts to deviate from state landlord laws passed a key vote in the House of Representatives Thursday. House Bill 283, carried by Rep. Steve Galloway, a Republican landlord from Great Falls, passed its second reading on a 65-35 vote. The proposal would prohibit local governments from enacting ordinances that conflict with or are more restrictive to a party than the rules set out in the Montana Landlord Tenant Act. Galloway testified Friday that cities have been taken to court and lost over their local ordinances, although he didnt specify the municipality. Galloway said he has been a landlord for 47 years. Rep. Tom France, D-Missoula, said the bill would stifle cities ability to respond to their local needs as places like Missoula and Bozeman struggle with housing and rental vacancies. HB 283 narrowly passed out of committee on a 10-9 vote. The bill passed mostly on party lines on Friday, with a handful of Republicans voting in opposition. The bill will receive a third vote, which gets no debate and is typically a formality, early next week. A proposal to create an additional penalty for drug dealers passed second reading on the House floor Friday, hurdling some bipartisan concerns in the process. House Bill 301 is carried by Democratic Rep. Denise Baum, a freshman lawmaker and Billings police detective. The bill would give prosecutors the option of seeking an additional 2 to 10 years in prison for someone convicted of criminal distribution of dangerous drugs, or possession of drugs with intent to distribute, who also was in possession of a firearm, destructive device or dangerous weapon in the commission of the distribution scheme. Billings has been something of a hot spot for violent crime in recent years. The city saw 43 shootings and 26 reports of people brandishing firearms, according to the Billings Police Department. This bill targets armed drug dealers who are distributing their poison in our communities and engaging in gun violence as a means to settle disputes and protect their drug assets, Baum testified. Rep. Jed Hinkle, R-Belgrade, was among the Republicans who testified against the bill, saying the bill focused on weapons, but not the root cause of drugs. If we want to stop drug dealers or even people who possess drugs from having weapons on them, lets stop the drug dealing in the first place, he said. Then we cover both issues. Rep. Jennifer Carlson, R-Manhattan, however, pushed back. This bill is to protect law enforcement, she said. The bill squeezed out of committee on a 10-9 vote. Rep. Braxton Mitchell, R-Columbia Falls, was absent from that hearing but voted aye by proxy. On Friday he said that vote was made in error and he did not support HB 301. Had that vote taken place in committee, it would have failed to reach the House floor. The bill passed easily on the House floor Friday with a 70-30 vote. Ten Democrats and 20 Republicans voted against the measure, which will likely see a third vote Monday. Despite the Chinese governments insistence that its balloon discovered hovering over Montana this week was just a weather balloon blown off course, the Pentagon repeated Friday that it was an unlawful surveillance aircraft. The high-altitude spy balloon, which was spotted above Billings Wednesday afternoon, prompted a ground stop of air traffic at several regional airports forcing the cancellation or diversion of several commercial flights. Armed fighter jets were scrambled to identify and track the balloon, along with radar surveillance AWACS aircraft and two refueling tankers. The balloon apparently floated over the Aleutian Islands, over Canada and then into mainland U.S. airspace. By Friday afternoon, the balloon had continued east into the central part of the United States, said Pentagon Press Secretary Air Force Brig. Gen. Pat Ryder. Montana is a particularly sensitive area because it is home to Malmstrom Air Force Base, host to one of the nations three nuclear silo missile fields. We know its a surveillance balloon, and we know that it has violated U.S. airspace, and violated international law, which is unacceptable, the general said during a press briefing from the Pentagon. And, we have conveyed this directly to the PRC (Peoples Republic of China) at multiple levels. The international incident prompted U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken to cancel a planned trip to Beijing Friday that was designed to ease mounting U.S.-China tensions. The Pentagon declined on Wednesday to shoot down the spy balloon out of caution for civilians and property on the ground. Because its big enough that, in reviewing our approach, we do recognize that any potential debris field would be significant and potentially cause civilian injuries or deaths or significant property damage, he said. The Republic of Chinas Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Friday issued a statement alleging the balloon was used strictly for meteorological research. China blamed atmospheric winds called Westerlies and the balloons limited self-steering capacity as reasons the airship deviated from its planned course." The Chinese side regrets the unintended entry of the airship into U.S. airspace due to force majeure, the ministry said. Force majeure is a legal term allowing for an extraordinary and unforeseeable event to exempt a party from fulfilling its part of an agreement. The Chinese side will continue communicating with the U.S. side and properly handle this unexpected situation caused by force majeure, the ministry said. The balloon had probably been over the United States for several days, Brig. Gen. Ryder said. Once the balloon was detected, we acted immediately to protect against the collection of sensitive information, and I'll just leave it at that, he added. Other foreign surveillance balloons have crossed into United States airspace, he said. That information is classified, he said. I can confirm that there have been other incidents. Asked why those balloons werent announced like this one was, he said, were certainly aware of photos of it being posted online. The general also contradicted Chinas assertion the balloon simply blew off course. The balloon is maneuverable. Clearly, it's violated U.S. airspace, he said. President Joe Biden was briefed and asked the military to present options, according to a senior administration official, who was also not authorized to publicly discuss sensitive information. The senior defense official said the U.S. prepared fighter jets, including F-22s, to shoot down the balloon if ordered, the AP reported. Despite the Pentagons assessment that shooting down the balloon could unnecessarily harm civilians and personal property, Montanas newest Representative Ryan Zinke offered to shoot it down himself. The Chinese spy balloon is clear provocation. In Montana we do not bow. We shoot it down. Take the shot, he insisted in a tweet. He later tweeted hed pull the trigger himself if they let me. If the Chinese cant deflate it, we should deflate it for them, he said on the Benny Johnson show. In this case it doesnt seem like we were doing anything about it, he said. Again, Im for shooting it down. We should have shot it down a long time agoIf we cant handle a balloon how are we going to handle the Chinese? On Friday, Democratic Montana Sen. Jon Tester, chairman of the Defense Appropriations Subcommittee, issued a statement. This provocation is completely unacceptable, and I am in close contact with Department of Defense and Intelligence officials," Tester said. He said his defense subcommittee will hold a hearing demanding answers from the Biden Administration about the spy balloon. Chinas actions are a clear threat to those values and to Americas national security, and Im demanding answers from the Biden Administration. I will be pulling people before my committee to get real answers on how this happened, and how we can prevent it from ever happening again. Similar to Zinke, U.S. Sen Steve Daines said the balloon should have been shot down, telling Montana reporters that Biden made the United States look weak. This was a surveillance balloon that flew over the areas of our missile field. And in Montana, we're very proud to have ICBMs across our state, it is the most powerful weapon known to mankind. These are weapons of mass destruction, but they are used to prevent a war, to maintain peace, they're certainly a terrific deterrent, to make sure that we are at peace, Daines said. The problem I see with President Biden and the White House is they've empowered and emboldened our enemies through a show of weakness and indecision. It's a dangerous place to be when our adversaries, I believe, feel bolder now about doing something so brazen as flying a spy balloon over our nuclear weapons, he added. Furthermore, letting a spy balloon float across our country, I do hope to see the president directly addressing this national security concern. He needs to take it seriously. I believe it's a threat to America, it's provocative for enemies to not have taken any action. To questions about whether he knew how close the balloon might have come to missile silo sites, Daines said he didnt know, nor did he know where the surveillance balloon entered the country. Daines was back in Montana on Friday. He said he is waiting to get a classified briefing, likely next week in a secure room, or SCIF (sensitive compartmented information facility). Daines said he did get on the phone with Col. Barry Little, commander of the 341st Missile Wing a Malmstrom Air Force Base, but the call wasnt secure so not much was shared. I spoke with Col. Little ... We were not in a secure environment, nor on secure phones. So, we would not be able to communicate at the level, given the Chinese very well indeed could have been listening, Daines said. Daines has extensive personal experience with China as a former employee of the drug company Proctor and Gamble, during which he lived in China. In 2017, Daines attempted to broker the Montana beef deal with Chinese corporate investors. The agreement called for a high-end beef processing facility to be built in Montana with Chinese investment. The deal fell apart in the wake of a years-long U.S.-China trade war launched by then-President Donald Trump. Daines said the China he thought would emerge as the nation opened up its economy didnt materialize. Clearly, Xi Jinping is a ruthless authoritarian communist dictator. And while there was some hope over the years that that more liberalization in that economy would lead to more freedom for their people and better leadership in China, the opposite has happened with the crackdown of this regime, Daines said. So China now, I believe, is the greatest threat, militarily and economically to the United States. And we have to be looking at it that way. Explosion video on Twitter Friday evening, a video began circulating on Twitter from someone named Dolly Moore @MMtTreasures, purporting to show an explosion in the sky over Billings with a spiral possibly of smoke and debris stretching to the ground. Ok, so heres what I just caught a few minutes ago out my window, Moore tweeted with the video. I saw a jet go by so fast and then (an) explosion in the sky. Holy Crap. At about 6:30 p.m. Friday, Fox News national security correspondent Jennifer Griffin tweeted that she had spoken with Department of Defense officials who said the balloon that was over Montana has not exploded and was not shot down by the U.S. military. Videos purporting to show the balloon exploding are not real, the tweet states. At about 7 p.m., the City of Billings tweeted: We are aware of the video shared on Twitter and claims of a massive explosion over Billings. However, our PD, Fire & airport have NOT been called to any incidents related to this video and there havent been any plane crashes picked up on radar. They followed up at 7:18 p.m. with the following statement: "We have confirmed with Montana DES & Gov. Gianforte that there have not been any explosions in, around, or across Montana. They are aware of the video and it can not be substantiated." At 7:39 p.m., Sheriff Mike Linder of the Yellowstone County Sheriff's office issued this press release: We made contact with the person who posted the video, which we believe to be legitimate. Just what the video shows is difficult to determine. As of this press release, there is no evidence that an aircraft went down or that there was an actual explosion. There have been no other reports from anyone, to law enforcement, who may have observed this incident. We will continue to investigate any additional leads or information. Governor's response Montana Gov. Greg Gianforte issued a statement Thursday. I received an informational briefing yesterday (Wednesday) on the situation involving a suspected Chinese spy balloon flying over Montana. From the spy balloon to the Chinese Communist Party spying on Americans through TikTok to CCP-linked companies buying American farmland, Im deeply troubled by the constant stream of alarming developments for our national security. Montana Republican Rep. Matt Rosendale on Friday sent a letter to U.S. Department of Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin demanding a briefing "regarding the Chinese balloon flying over Montana potentially conduction spy operations." Rosendale said he was particularly concerned about surveillance of Malmstrom Air Force Base in his district, which operates, maintains, and secures Minuteman III ICBMs. This incident is only the most recent example of Chinas brazen espionage attempt it is abundantly clear that the Chinese Communist Party is engaging in a multilayered approach to spy on Americans, the letter stated. The Biden Administration must do more to prevent the Chinese Communist Party from targeting Americans. The Biden Administration must determine how to take this balloon down safely, identify the true purpose of it, and analyze the information they have already collected from the balloon. Huddle House opens in Decatur Decatur has its own Huddle House. The restaurant chain opened Tuesday at 3904 E. Hospitality Lane. Owners Chazaray Carson and Jessica Michael broke ground on the northside location in August; however, the process of opening the newest Huddle House began in November 2021. Huddle House corporation is based in Atlanta with nearly 300 locations. Eleven, including Carson and Michaels restaurant, are in Illinois. Were really excited to bring another restaurant to Decatur, Michael said. And to be able to employ so many people. Decaturs Huddle House staff comprises 50 employees, including wait staff, kitchen and management. The menu offers breakfast, lunch and dinner items throughout the day. The dining area seats nearly 70 customers. Hours are currently 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. However, the owners hope to be open 24 hours by the summer. Well also have a pick-up window, online orders, and a third-party delivery, Michael said. Elite Auto Mall opens in Mount Zion Elite Auto Mall of Central Illinois moved into the former Sunshine Motors location, 1110 Illinois Route 121, Mount Zion. According to co-owner Samantha Leathers, the business opened in December and the lot has since filled up with used cars. I have about 32 cars in inventory currently, Leathers said. But I could probably fit another 30 to 40 on here if I wanted to. The owners took possession of the building in September. For more information on the available vehicles, visit the Elite Auto Mall of Central Illinois website or call 217-855-9105. DECATUR The Macon County Community Environmental Council will hold a seed swap next week at the Decatur Public Library. The event will be held from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Feb. 8 in the librarys Madden Auditorium. The swap will focus on native seeds like wildflowers, prairie plants and trees, the council said, but non-native seeds are welcome too. Participants should bring their seeds packaged and labeled. Any individuals with questions on how to package, store and label seeds for the swap can contact Melody Arnold at melody2a@hotmail.com. Those with no seeds to swap are also encouraged to come, make a small donation and take some seeds. Close 1931: Mrs. Edward Buckner and Mrs. Edward Powers in art institute barn 4987: A centerpiece featuring a silvery goose graced the head table Tuesday during the Garden Club of Decatur Christmas brunch at the Decatur Holiday Inn. The goose, made from dried grass, was a creation of Mary Grace Graham. The Rev. Robert Angus of Westminster Presbyterian church is in the background. Photo by Herb Slodounik. 1949: This garden club tea table with its pink satin cloth, circles of smilax holding tulips of many colors and pale green candles in silver holders was arrangements by Mrs. J.F. McDermott, Mrs. G. Lorenze Miller, and Mrs. Guy Rodgers, pictured above are left to right, Mrs. K. B. Gardner, Mrs. Dwight Spencer, Mrs. M. H. Stuckwish, Mrs. G. Roy Eshelman and Mrs. R.W. Chapman UNDATED: Ruth Diehl displays her winning entry Friday in the Garden Club of Decatur flower show 1985: Vivian Kurtz holds a grapevine wreath with holly and a bird, while Carol Magruder works with flowering crab and bayberry leaves. 1991: Ethel Snell, 85, of Decatur, checks her handiwork on one of about 50 holiday wreaths being prepared by the Garden Club of Decatur for "The Season for Giving" show Friday and Saturday at Westminster Presbyterian Church. Snell has been a member of the club since 1970. Photo by Dennis Magee 1987: Pat Delatte of Decatur and her blooming pink impatiens were first time winners Friday at the Garden Club of Decatur's show at Westminster Presbyterian Church. Photo by Jan Abbot 1984: Maxine M. Mussulman, left, and Rebecca Hewett show off items that will be on display at the Garden Club of Decatur Standard Flower Show. Photo by Doug Gaumon 1931: Mrs. Harriet Amsden and Mrs. H.D. Spencer 1931: Mrs. Dwight Spencer, art institute barn. 1931: Mrs. R. R. Montgomery and Mrs. E. A. Denz in art institute barn 1931: Mrs. C.R. Willis and Mrs. M.B. Smith in Art Institute barn HISTORY PHOTOS: Garden Club of Decatur 1931: Mrs. Edward Buckner and Mrs. Edward Powers in art institute barn 4987: A centerpiece featuring a silvery goose graced the head table Tuesday during the Garden Club of Decatur Christmas brunch at the Decatur Holiday Inn. The goose, made from dried grass, was a creation of Mary Grace Graham. The Rev. Robert Angus of Westminster Presbyterian church is in the background. Photo by Herb Slodounik. 1949: This garden club tea table with its pink satin cloth, circles of smilax holding tulips of many colors and pale green candles in silver holders was arrangements by Mrs. J.F. McDermott, Mrs. G. Lorenze Miller, and Mrs. Guy Rodgers, pictured above are left to right, Mrs. K. B. Gardner, Mrs. Dwight Spencer, Mrs. M. H. Stuckwish, Mrs. G. Roy Eshelman and Mrs. R.W. Chapman UNDATED: Ruth Diehl displays her winning entry Friday in the Garden Club of Decatur flower show 1985: Vivian Kurtz holds a grapevine wreath with holly and a bird, while Carol Magruder works with flowering crab and bayberry leaves. 1991: Ethel Snell, 85, of Decatur, checks her handiwork on one of about 50 holiday wreaths being prepared by the Garden Club of Decatur for "The Season for Giving" show Friday and Saturday at Westminster Presbyterian Church. Snell has been a member of the club since 1970. Photo by Dennis Magee 1987: Pat Delatte of Decatur and her blooming pink impatiens were first time winners Friday at the Garden Club of Decatur's show at Westminster Presbyterian Church. Photo by Jan Abbot 1984: Maxine M. Mussulman, left, and Rebecca Hewett show off items that will be on display at the Garden Club of Decatur Standard Flower Show. Photo by Doug Gaumon 1931: Mrs. Harriet Amsden and Mrs. H.D. Spencer 1931: Mrs. Dwight Spencer, art institute barn. 1931: Mrs. R. R. Montgomery and Mrs. E. A. Denz in art institute barn 1931: Mrs. C.R. Willis and Mrs. M.B. Smith in Art Institute barn DECATUR The American Red Cross has announced upcoming blood drives across Central Illinois to meet the continued demand. Donors of all blood types, particularly type O, are needed, as well as platelet donors. MacArthur High School, 1499 W. Grand Ave. in Decatur, will host a blood drive from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 9. The Decatur Blood Donation Center, 2674 N. Main St., will welcome donors from noon to 6 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 7 and 14. Blood drives also are scheduled in the following communities. Tuscola: Monday, Feb. 6, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Tuscola First Christian Church, 100 Church St. Argenta: Tuesday, Feb. 7, from 1-6 p.m. at Argenta Bridge Church Fellowship, 520 West Elm. Bethany: Tuesday, Feb. 14, from 2-6 p.m. at Bethany Fire Station, Route 121. Visit RedCrossBlood.org, or call 800-733-2767 to make an appointment or for more information. Donors must be at least 17 years of age (16 with parental consent), weigh at least 110 pounds and in generally good health. DECATUR Plaintiffs in a lawsuit challenging the state's semiautomatic weapons ban have asked a Macon County judge to temporarily halt the law's enforcement statewide as legal proceedings continue. The motion was requested in court Friday afternoon by an attorney representing state Rep. Dan Caulkins, R-Decatur, Decatur Jewelry & Pawn owner Perry Lewin and hundreds more under the banner of "Law-Abiding Gun Owners of Macon County." It comes after a series of victories in a handful of downstate courtrooms that have shielded a few thousand people from the state's ban. But frustrated by this "patchwork of enforcement" and the "chaos" that could be unleashed with additional lawsuits, the plaintiffs argued for extending the temporary restraining order to all Illinois gun owners not just those who have signed onto the various lawsuits. "This is an opportunity now to get the whole state covered," Caulkins said. "We should not have 600 people in one county and 1,000 people in another county and 1,100 people in Macon County. This is equal protection. We all should be able to enjoy the rights and the freedoms that are afforded us." The Legislature passed and Gov. J.B. Pritzker signed the legislation banning semiautomatic weapons and high-capacity magazines last month. Illinois is the ninth state in the country to enact such a measure. However, the state was soon hit with lawsuits in state and federal court challenging the law. Tom DeVore, a failed candidate for Illinois attorney general in 2022, filed two lawsuits in state court one in Effingham County and one in White County. Last week, a judge in the Effingham case granted a temporary restraining order blocking enforcement of the ban on the more than 850 people who signed onto that lawsuit. Earlier this week, the Fifth District Appellate Court, in a divided ruling, upheld that temporary restraining order, agreeing that the ban likely violated the state constitution's equal protection clause. But it dismissed DeVore's arguments that the ban violated the due process clause and failed to adhere to legislative process called for under the state constitution. A spokeswoman for Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul said earlier this week that the office is asking the Illinois Supreme Court to review the appellate court's decision on an expedited schedule. In the meantime, a White County judge on Thursday granted a temporary restraining order in the other case, thus shielding nearly 1,700 more, including former Republican gubernatorial candidate Darren Bailey, from the ban. Jerry Stocks, the attorney representing plaintiffs in the Macon County case, told Judge Rodney Forbes on Friday that they adjusted their case "to bring ourselves in alignment with the other litigation and other counties and what transpired in the Fifth District." "We have chaos right now," Forbes said. "And we need to have an order that is clear ... that these orders already entered the Fifth District and in this proceeding makes it applicable in all applications." While acknowledging that the Macon County Circuit Court was bound by the appellate court's decision protecting the temporary restraining order in the Effingham case, Darren Kinkead, an attorney representing Pritzker and Raoul, asked Forbes not to extend protections from the order to the entire state. Kinkead also raised an issue with the voluntary association "Law-Abiding Gun Owners of Macon County," a group of hundreds of gun owners who are party to the lawsuit. He said that "as a practical manner," it would be difficult to determine enforcement because it was not clear exactly who was a member of the organization. But, he said that he would not object "if there was some way to clear that up." How Caulkins set up his lawsuit led to a spat with DeVore this week. The latter filed a motion to intervene in Caulkins' case, saying that six plaintiffs were misled as they were only included as members of the association, not as individuals. The plaintiffs were also encouraged to donate $200 to Caulkins' campaign account to help cover legal expenses. Only one of the six actually donated and Caulkins said that contributions were voluntary. The Illinois Freedom Caucus, a far-right bloc of state legislators, put out a statement earlier this week reaffirming that they support all legal challenges to the ban. Caulkins, asked about the brouhaha with DeVore, struck a conciliatory tone Friday. "The work that he's done has been very successful," Caulkins said. "If it weren't for that, we wouldn't be here today. We're following that same trail, but with different arguments. And we we believe that every FOID card holder should have the same privileges, not just the folks that he is named as plaintiffs. That's our difference." Forbes told both attorneys that they made "very good arguments" that he would take under advisement. He hopes "to issue a quick decision," signaling sometime next week. Gun control legislation that passed and failed over the last 20 years Gun control legislation that passed and failed over the last 20 years Tiahrt Amendment Protection of Lawful Commerce in Arms Act District of Columbia v. Heller Expanded background checks Lori Jackson Domestic Violence Survivor Protection Act Domestic Violence Gun Homicide Prevention Act of 2014 Homemade Firearms Accountability Act Denying Firearms and Explosives to Dangerous Terrorists Act of 2015 Criminalizing straw purchasing and gun trafficking Enhanced background checks 72-hour waiting period for those on terrorist watch lists Help End Assault Rifle Tragedies Act Preventing Gun Violence Act Gun Show Loophole Closing Act of 2017 Safer Neighborhoods Gun Buyback Act Handgun Safety Trigger Act Background Check Completion Act of 2017 Bipartisan bump stock ban Closing the Charleston loophole Universal background checks Bipartisan Safer Communities Act Protecting Our Kids Act Assault Weapons Ban of 2022 Vote now until noon on April 20th to support the businesses that you think are the best in the New Braunfels area. This Dec. 21, 2022, image provided by Eisai in January 2023 shows vials and packaging for their medication Leqembi. Leqembi, the first drug to show that it slows Alzheimers, was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in early January 2023, but treatment for most patients is still several months away. Two big factors behind the slow debut, according to experts, are scant insurance coverage and a long setup time needed by many health systems. (Uncredited/AP) The first drug to show that it slows Alzheimers is on sale, but treatment for most patients is still several months away. Two big factors behind the slow debut, experts say, are scant insurance coverage and a long setup time needed by many health systems. Advertisement Patients who surmount those challenges will step to the head of the line for a drug that delivers an uncertain benefit. Heres a closer look. THE SITUATION The U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved Leqembi, from Japanese drugmaker Eisai, in early January. Its for patients with mild or early cases of dementia tied to Alzheimers disease. Advertisement Regulators used the FDAs accelerated pathway, which allows drugs to launch before theyre confirmed to benefit patients. In studies, Leqembi modestly slowed the fatal disease, but doctors arent sure yet how that translates into things like greater independence for patients. Patients get the drug by IV every two weeks. Eisai says the company has shipped Leqembi to U.S. specialty drug distribution centers. From there, it can be delivered overnight to hospitals or medical centers. Eisai spokeswoman Libby Holman said prescriptions for the drug have been written, and they expect patients to start receiving it very soon. COST AND COVERAGE A years treatment will run about $26,500. Patients who can afford that without insurance will be able to start the treatment if they are deemed a candidate for Leqembi and they find a doctor and health care system prepared to help them. There are currently few options outside self-pay. Most of the patients who may be candidates for this drug are on Medicare, and the federal programs coverage is narrow so far. It has said it will cover treatments like Leqembi only for patients enrolled in certain research trials designed to test the drug. There are no such studies currently accepting new patients. Theres a theoretical door (to coverage) thats completely slammed shut, said Robert Egge, chief public policy officer for the nonprofit Alzheimers Association. Medicare made that coverage decision last year when another Alzheimers drug, Biogens Aduhelm, hit the market. Advertisement Health insurers, which run Medicare Advantage coverage, have been sticking to that decision, said a spokesman for the trade group Americas Health Insurance Plans. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, which oversees Medicare, said after Leqembis approval that it may reconsider its coverage stance, something the Alzheimers Association has urged it to do. Coverage also is likely to change if the drug receives full approval from the FDA. That could happen later this year. In the meantime, Eisai has an assistance program that provides Leqembi for free to some patients, including those on Medicare. Its based partly on financial need. DIAGNOSING It can take anywhere from several months to more than a year for doctors to diagnose a patient and then figure out if that person is a candidate for Leqembi, according to Dr. Sarah Kremen, a neurologist with the Cedars-Sinai health system in Los Angeles. Advertisement That can depend on where a patient lives and the physicians expertise. First, a doctor must determine whether a patient has mild dementia. Then the doctor has to decide what caused the condition. It could stem from Alzheimers, Parkinsons disease, a stroke or a brain injury. If its related to Alzheimers disease, doctors must determine whether the patients brain has an amyloid protein. The new drug aims to slow the progression of Alzheimers by removing that protein. After all that, some doctors may hesitate to prescribe Leqembi because they dont have a good idea yet for how the drug will help the patient or affect their everyday life, Kremen said. They have to consider that uncertainty against the brain swelling and bleeding that can develop in patients taking it. I think this benefit versus harm issue is going to weigh heavily, she said. Advertisement DELIVERING TREATMENT Health systems must first develop plans for delivering drugs like Leqembi before they start offering it. That can take months, although some may have started before regulators approved the drug. This planning might include training nurses on how to give the drug and making sure prescribing doctors know how to recognize candidates for it. Care providers also need a plan for how patients will be monitored once they start taking it. Patients need repeated brain scans to check for side effects. Doctors may want to know that such a plan is in place before they feel comfortable writing a prescription, Kremen noted. Hospital systems also will have to figure out how many patients might come to them for this drug and be able to cover all the costs tied to it. Those might include clinic, nursing, radiologist and pharmacy fees. Frankly, the hospital systems are going to have to decide if they want to offer it, Kremen said. Is it worth the cost? Advertisement Eisai estimates that about 100,000 people will be diagnosed and eligible to receive Leqembi in the United States by 2026. Representatives of the drugmaker declined to estimate how many people might receive it this year. HICKORY Veterans Coffee Connection, a coffee group for veterans of all ages and branches of military service, will meet Wednesday, Feb. 8, at 8:30 a.m. at Outback Steakhouse on Lenoir Rhyne Boulevard. Veterans Coffee Connection, an informal coffee group sponsored by Carolina Caring and hosted by Outback Steakhouse, welcomes veterans from all branches of military service. This gathering is free and is a great place to relax with a cup of coffee, enjoy doughnuts, and socialize with other veterans. Carolina Caring for Veterans is proud to be a Level IV partner of the We Honor Veterans program, an awareness program spearheaded by the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization and the Department of Veterans Affairs. For more information, contact Cindy Stamey, Carolina Carings Director of Community and Veteran Relations, at cstamey@carolinacaring.org or by calling 828-466-0466, ext. 2075. Carolina Caring, founded in 1979, is an independent, community-based, nonprofit health-care provider. It specializes in programs that offer relief from chronic conditions, serious illnesses, and the challenges they bring, including palliative medicine and hospice care for all ages, primary care and grief counseling. Currently, Carolina Caring serves 12 counties across western North Carolina and the Charlotte region. For more information about Carolina Caring, call 828-466-0466 or visit www.CarolinaCaring.org. Community members were invited to a discussion group about the Western Piedmont Symphony on Thursday. The point of the meeting was to discuss ways the symphony can expand its presence within Hickory, Catawba County and the surrounding areas. Several organizations were represented at the meeting including Catawba County government, Hickory city government, the Hickory NAACP and Hickory Public Schools. The meeting started out with a brief presentation explaining everything the symphony does, such as educational outreach, youth orchestras and three concert series held each year. This year marks the symphonys 58th season, Western Piedmont Symphony Music Director Matthew Troy said. Troy said the symphony is bold, dynamic, and plays a variety of music. Troy said the symphony plays pieces by composers who have been dead for hundreds of years and modern music from living American composers. Its not small, precious, pretty little music box-like music, Troy said. Its big, bold, living, breathing. After the presentation, the floor was opened up for questions and suggestions from the audience. In September, the Western Piedmont Symphony began hosting Side/Show concerts during the Hickory Art Crawl in downtown. During the side show, small ensembles playing a variety of music are scattered throughout downtown Hickory. The ensembles play in breweries, art galleries and on the square, Western Piedmont Symphony Executive Director Kelly Swindell said. Chamber of Catawba County Partner Recruitment and Sponsorship Manager Nathan Cooley suggested having more small ensembles perform at local breweries throughout the year. Swindell said that is an idea the symphony has been working on. Swindell said the symphony is scouting venues and looking for funding, since the musicians are not volunteers. Catawba Science Center Executive Director Tracy Hall commended the symphony on its outreach to local students. She asked if the symphony is able to connect with students outside of Catawba County. Hall mentioned being a parent and how she was constantly tied up with her childrens commitments. She suggested that getting more children involved with music would bring more people to concerts. Troy said the symphony has a history of outreach in surrounding areas. He said the symphony recently played at Appalachian State University for students in and around Watauga County. I think that is something that sets us apart as a regional orchestra when I compare us to several other peer orchestras in the area, Troy said. The Winston-Salem Symphony, for example, they almost never, I mean, never leave Forsyth County. The Greensboro Symphony never really leaves Guilford County. And so, we do, I think, have a wider range that we cover. Swindell said the state funding for rural touring has dwindled over time. In the past, the symphony would go to places like Burke County. The symphony now works with teachers and schools in surrounding counties to bring students to Hickory for concerts, Swindell said. One example Swindell gave is the Link Up: The Orchestra Sings. This concert series is a partnership with Carnegie Halls Weill Music Institute. The Link Up series is educational concerts for fourth- and fifth-graders from Burke, Caldwell and Catawba counties. Swindell said the symphony hosts about 3,000 students for that series. Hickory NAACP President Ida Clough said one great thing about the symphony is inclusivity. We do a lot of outreach in Ridgeview and in different places, Troy said. We try to make sure that our stage is reflecting the community and reflecting the world that we want to see. Winning a primary election in North Carolina requires candidates to win only more than 30% of the vote. Supporters of ranked choice voting, an alternative voting method that has grown increasingly popular across the country in recent years, argue that is wrong. They say it sets up a system in which candidates dont have to campaign to a wide swath of the electorate, and in the end, the majority of voters are unhappy with the winner of the election. Under RCV, instead of voting for a single candidate, voters rank all of the candidates on the ballot in order of their preference. Candidates must win more than 50% of the vote to win an election. If none of the candidates are backed by a majority of voters, then the candidate with the least amount of votes is eliminated from the race, and the people who cast ballots for that person have their votes count for the candidate they marked as their second preference. This continues until a candidate has earned a majority of votes. Better Ballot North Carolina, a nonprofit dedicated to raising awareness about RCV with the goal of bringing the voting method to more elections in the state, argues that ranked choice voting is more democratic, since it requires the winning candidate to be preferred by a majority of voters, even in crowded or close races with multiple candidates. Other arguments in favor of RCV include that candidates campaigning for a greater number of voters will lead to less negative campaigning, and that its better for voters to indicate their preferences the first time and avoid costly runoff elections that usually see less turnout. On Monday and Tuesday, the nonprofit is hosting two conversations about RCV and how it can improve the current system of voting in North Carolina, at East Carolina University and Duke University. The panels will feature David Daley, a political journalist and senior fellow at FairVote, a national organization that is a leading proponent of RCV, and speakers from BBNC. The first panel, held at ECU, will take place in Room 249 of the Main Campus Student Center on Feb. 6 from 6-7:30 p.m. The second one, held at Dukes Fuqua School of Business, will take place at Geneen Auditorium on Feb. 7 from 5:30-6:30 p.m. Attending the panels doesnt require an RSVP, but you can do so at betterballotnc.org/events. History of RCV in North Carolina RCV isnt new in North Carolina, but has yet to be adopted widely, or for high-profile statewide or federal races, as some other states have done. In October 2007, Cary used ranked choice for its town council election, as part of a pilot program approved by state lawmakers. Hendersonville followed, using the method for its city council elections in 2007 and 2009, and in 2010, RCV was used in a statewide Court of Appeals race that featured 13 candidates on the ballot, according to FairVote. After the primary elections last May, Gary Bartlett, the executive director of the Ranked Choice Voting Resource Center, and a former 20-year director of the State Board of Elections, called for the state to use RCV in its elections. In an op-ed for the Charlotte Observer, Bartlett observed that in multiple high-profile congressional primaries, the winning candidate advanced to the general election having won slightly over 30% of the vote. There are other voting methods as well, Bartlett noted, but he said that RCV yields majority winners with a larger mandate to govern and gives voters more choice and voice. An important topic that many do not talk about is suicide. I wanted to share this article from the News Bureau of University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign that specifically addresses suicide among farmers. Josie Rudolphi is a professor of agricultural and biological engineering at the university whose research examined suicide among farmers and ranchers, as well as the mental health of their children. Recent data from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention indicated that farmers are twice as likely as people in other occupations to die by suicide. What are the unique stressors affecting the mental health of farmers? While most farmers in the Midwest had a good harvest this year and commodity prices are strong, they are faced with incredibly high input costs. Unpredictable commodity prices have so much impact on the viability of a farm. Theres a lot to celebrate, but the future is so uncertain. And they cant control the weather. While Illinois had good weather this growing season, that wasnt the case nationwide. There were drought conditions in other parts of the country, and thats a huge concern for some of our partners who are providing stress assistance for those farmers. Migrant workers experience different types of stress than do producers such as issues with immigration status, acculturation, language and discrimination. We need to focus a lot more attention on the mental health of farm workers, too. Most parts of Illinois are designated mental health care shortage areas meaning we just dont have the providers and services to meet the need. In terms of barriers, we talk about the four As: accessibility; availability, and we see that as a huge barrier; affordability; and acceptability or stigmatization. Most farmers are independent producers who operate on very thin margins. Mental health care is often considered a luxury or an unnecessary expense. Geographical distribution of the populations is another challenge. Farmers are scattered across the counties and states. Theyre not in one centralized workplace like a health care facility or university campus that would make mental health education and outreach easier. And their schedules are incredibly varied. We still see stigmatization around mental health in these communities, but I think thats starting to change. Stigma seems to be more pervasive among certain demographics. For example, it appears as though its more challenging for older generations to talk about mental health issues. And in small communities, people are very conscious of other people knowing what their vehicles look like and not wanting people to recognize their car or truck parked outside a mental health clinic. Theres a ton of identity tied up in agriculture, like there is for people in many other occupations. Agricultural producers are highly independent, and society rewards resiliency and stoicism; however, these labels may be damaging and discourage them from seeking help or reaching out. Our results underscore broader observations among the general population that men are more likely to internalize their experience, meaning they are less likely to talk about what they are going through and how they are feeling. In the farmer suicide study, we found that older men and women who farmed were more likely to die by suicide if they had health problems, while younger men were more likely to have had relationship problems. Women farmers who lived in medium-sized towns had higher suicide rates compared with those in rural areas. That was interesting because we typically think of urban and micropolitan areas as having more resources such as access to mental health care. The planned May 11 ending of the national COVID-19 public-health emergency will be the catalyst for several changes affecting the local availability of test kits and vaccines, according to Forsyth County health director Joshua Swift. The Biden administrations decision also has ramifications for 589,000 North Carolinians who have gained Medicaid coverage during the COVID-19 pandemic through federal public-health relief legislation. Swift said that DHHS-supported vendor testing is expected to end by March 30. At that time, the health department will lose many of its administrative and clinical workers dedicated to COVID-19 services as state and federal funding for those positions ends. When that happens, well have to assimilate the (COVID-19) vaccine operations into our normal vaccine operations, Swift said. Losing that support in staffing and funding will be challenging. Meanwhile, its expected that Moderna and Pfizer will begin commercial marketplace sales of their vaccines in March and April. That means county health departments, health-care providers and hospital pharmacies could be charged between $100 to $120 per vaccine dose. By comparison, Swift said the flu vaccine costs between $10 and $15 a dose. We do believe that health insurance companies will obviously allow that coverage, but were looking into that as we chart this new course with COVID in how well handle not only testing, but also the vaccine, Swift said. The vaccine remains readily available. Swift said the county health department should have enough COVID-19 test kits to last for another 12 months at the current usage rate of about 400 to 500 a month. The department has requested CDC approval to offer a 24/7 COVID-19 test kit distribution kiosk similar to a Redbox video service. The outdoor kiosk would be at the departments campus at 799 N. Highland Ave. Medicaid impact Medicaid currently covers 2.71 million North Carolinians, according to the N.C. Department of Health and Human Services. According to the Kaiser Family Foundation, a national nonprofit health-care advocacy group, Congress enacted the Families First Coronavirus Response Act soon after the pandemic erupted in the U.S. in mid-March 2020. Part of the act is a requirement that Medicaid programs keep people continuously enrolled through the end of the month in which the COVID-19 public health emergency ends, in exchange for enhanced federal funding. Kaiser Health News said the ending of the coverage will put pressure on state and local health departments to disenroll those no longer qualified while directing them to other potential sources of coverage. There also will be added financial pressures on health-care systems, hospitals, doctors and other providers who relying on payments from Medicaid. The end of the emergency has numerous consequences, said Dr. Tiffany Harris, principal associate of Abt Associates, a public-health research group in Portland, Maine. People may have a greater collective sigh of relief than they should. Free COVID-19 tests and treatment may end. So may extended Medicaid benefits. Harris said its understandable that most American are tired (of COVID) and want to move on. However, at least for the near-term, COVID-19 will continue to take a substantial toll in illnesses, loss of work and ultimately loss of loved ones, Harris said. Thats why we must remain vigilant so that we can prevent an emergency from emerging again. Forsyth spread The three key COVID-19 community spread metrics continued to trend in a positive direction last week in Forsyth. The county was in the medium category for the third consecutive week, according to the latest update Friday from the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. For the 14-county Triad and Northwest North Carolina region, only Surry County remains in the high category. Davidson, Guilford, Randolph, Rockingham and Wilkes were moved from low to medium, while Davie, Stokes and Yadkin remained medium, and Alamance, Alleghany, Ashe and Watauga counties are low. The CDC recommends that people who live in counties with the highest levels wear masks in indoor public spaces, as well as on public transportation, regardless of vaccination status. The COVID-19 community level is determined by looking at hospital beds being used, hospital admissions and the total number of new cases in an area. The latest number of new cases per 100,000 people is 163 in Forsyth, compared with 165 and 174 in the previous two reports. The rate of new COVID-related hospital admissions per 100,000 people was at 15.3, compared with 15 and 19 in the previous two reports. Also, 4% of staffed inpatient beds are being used by COVID-19 patients, compared with 4 and 5% in the previous two weeks. Influenza update DHHS reported Thursday there have been 167 flu-related deaths in N.C. since flu season began Oct. 1. Thats up eight from the previous DHHS report on Jan. 25. The latest death total was: five North Carolinians ages 65 and older; three between ages 50 and 64. Similar to COVID-19 reporting, DHHS cautions that its weekly totals are subject to revision, including factoring in cases and deaths that occurred weeks or months ago, but were only recently confirmed as related to influenza. For the latest report, there was one confirmed flu-related death last week, with the remaining confirmed deaths occurring weeks earlier. There have been 114 deaths involving individuals ages 65 and older, as well as 36 in the 50-to-64 age group, 15 in the 25-to-49 age group, and three in the 5-to-17 age group. A Chinese surveillance balloon was likely to fly over parts of North Carolina on Saturday evening, according to a trajectory map by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. The balloon's path will take it over Fort Bragg in Cumberland County and Camp Lejeune in Onslow County, according to the NOAA map. The U.S. Department of Defense said that the balloon was over Montana at noon Friday at an attitude of 60,000 feet and was moving east toward the center of the continental United States. By 5 p.m. Friday, the balloon was over Missouri. The balloon poses no risk to commercial aviation, military assets or people on the ground, the Defense Department said. The North American Aerospace Defense Command is monitoring the balloon and the units leaders are reviewing their options, Air Force Brig. Gen. Pat Ryder said. "The balloon has violated U.S. airspace and international law, which is unacceptable," Ryder said, adding that U.S. officials have told that to Chinese leaders. The balloon has surveillance gear and other items, Ryder said. NORAD said that the balloon is far higher than the altitudes of commercial airliners, although media reports Friday quoted pilots as saying the balloon was too close for comfort. Chinese officials described the balloon as a civilian craft designed more for meteorological recordings than for espionage, The New York Times reported. The officials said it floated into U.S. airspace, the Times reported. It is a civilian airship used for research, mainly meteorological, purposes, said a statement on China's foreign ministrys website. Affected by the Westerlies and with limited self-steering capability, the airship deviated far from its planned course. The Chinese side regrets the unintended entry of the airship into U.S. airspace due to force majeure. The Chinese side will continue communicating with the US side and properly handle this unexpected situation caused by force majeure. The Chinese government urged U.S. officials to remain calm. We have no intention to violate other countries sovereignty and airspace, Mao Ning, a spokesperson for Chinas foreign ministry said at a briefing on Friday. We are gathering and verifying the facts. We hope the relevant parties will handle the matter in a cool-headed way. U.S. military leaders, including President Biden, decided Friday not to shoot down the balloon, pointing to the possibility that debris could hit people on the ground and cause property damage, Ryder said. U.S. Sens. Thom Tillis and Ted Budd, both North Carolina Republicans, criticized the Biden administration for the decision. "The trajectory of the Chinese spy balloon includes flyovers near Fort Bragg and Camp Lejeune," Tillis said Friday in a tweet. "President Biden's decision not to destroy it even as it passed through sparsely populated areas is puzzling, and we deserve answers." Budd also said that U.S. residents need answers from the Biden administration. "The flagrant violation of U.S. airspace by the Chinese Communist Party does nothing but project American weakness," Budd said in a tweet. "The Biden administration needs to explain how and why this was allowed to happen. Americas credibility is on the line." Karine Jean-Pierre, the White House press secretary, said Biden agreed with the advice from U.S. military commanders. The president will always put the safety and the security of the American people first, Jean-Pierre said. A N.C. Senate bill that would significantly expand the states newborn safe surrender law cleared its first committee step last week. The Republican-sponsored Senate Bill 20, titled Safe Surrender Infants, was recommended Thursday by the Health Care committee. Sen. Jim Burgin, R-Lee, is the primary sponsor. The bill must clear the Senate Judiciary and Rules and Operations committees before advancing to the Senate floor for a vote. Judiciary will address the bill at 11 a.m. Tuesday. With Republicans holding a 30-20 veto-proof margin in the Senate at full attendance, several GOP-sponsored culturally focused public-health bills are being fast-tracked during the opening weeks of the 2023 legislative session. Several of those types of bills have tracked in the solution in search of a problem category, according to legislative observers. However, the state Department of Health and Human Services is advocating for SB20, in large part because of a recommendation from the N.C. Child Fatality Task Force. SB20 would amend House Bill 275, titled Infant Homicide Prevention Act, which was signed into law by Democratic Gov. Mike Easley in July 2001. The law decriminalizes the parental abandonment of an infant under 7 days old who was not a victim of neglect or abuse. HB275 was passed after a dead newborn was found in the Macon County landfill in February 2000, resulting in a second-degree murder conviction for the mother, who served seven years in prison. While the infant currently can be placed into the temporary custody of a responsible adult, the preference as outlined in the law is an on-duty health-care provider, law-enforcement officer, social services worker and certified emergency medical services worker. There are safe surrender/safe haven laws in every state, Burgin told the committee. Its designed to provide a safe alternative for a desperate parent of a newborn who may be tempted to engage in action harmful to the infant. Burgin said that Im not going to say safe surrender is a big problem in North Carolina, but in some cases I dont think we really know. DHHS said that since 2007, there have been 16 infants surrendered in North Carolina through the end of 2021. That included five in 2020. Proposed changes The law allows the parent to surrender the infant without providing his or her name. SB20 removes the option of surrendering the infant to any responsible adult. Burgin said eliminating that option is necessary to keep the infant from ending up in human trafficking. SB20 would add allowing the person accepting the infant to ask the parent for their identity, the date of birth, and relevant medical history and the parents marital status if applicable. However, the parent is not obligated to provide the information, and all parental information is required to be kept confidential. The surrendering parents information can be provided to a county social services department, law enforcement and to the non-surrendering parent if applicable. SB20 would offer the surrendering parent immunity from prosecution only when safe surrender criteria are met, Burgin said. This bill provides a safe way to track (safe surrender), to collect data and hopefully result in fewer cases of infant deaths. Other additions in SB20 include: Responding to a non-surrendering parent to assure that the infant was surrendered safely. Allows a non-surrendering parent to gain custody as long as the infant has not been subject to neglect or abuse by the non-surrendering parent. If a parent, whether surrendering or non-surrendering, seeks custody, the county social services department is required to ask for a DNA test if there is uncertainty to parentage. Within 60 days of surrendering the infant, the surrendering parent has the right to contact the county social services department and request custody. However, the bill would require the county social services director to treat any such request as a report of neglect and comply with the appropriate state law. After 60 days, if the surrendering parent does not seek to reclaim custody, the county social services department is required to initiate a termination of parental rights. Within 14 days of a surrendered infant, the social services director is required to place a legal notice in a local newspaper or a newspaper where the surrendering parent may live. The notice would indicate that the infant is in the hands of the county social services department. The notice would run once a week for three consecutive weeks, and contain the provisions of the law covering the surrender. SB20 retains the provision that local boards of education provide information to high school students annually on how to lawfully abandon a newborn baby. That provision also applies to charter, home and non-public schools. DHHS response DHHS said in a statement that SB20 proposes changes to the Safe Surrender laws in line with recommendations from the N.C. Child Fatality Task Force. The law provides parents in crisis who feel they have no other choice a way to surrender their baby safely without providing the parents name. The law is intended to prevent newborn abandonment and homicide. The risk of homicide on the first day of life is 10 times greater than any other time in a persons life. DHHS advises a surrendering parent to do your best to make sure that the baby is healthy, warm and clean. Many states have Safe Haven laws. These designate places where a baby may be surrendered. North Carolinas law is different because it designates people, not places. An adult who receives the baby is required to keep it safe and warm, and to call 911 or the local department of social services right away, who should know that the surrendering parent is not required to give any identifying information. The goal is to have the baby adopted into a safe and loving home as quickly as possible. Participants dodged a steady barrage of raindrops as they hurried inside the Anderson Center at Winston-Salem State University on a recent morning. But inside, they tackled blue-sky dreams, ones where the long-standing barriers to economic mobility for African-Americans in Winston-Salem will finally fall as residents of lived experience are finally heard. Those residents spoke out at a year-end symposium held this past December by WS RISE, a unique grassroots effort that began just two-and-a-half years ago. We are trying to build community, WS RISE Project Team Chuck Byrd said as he welcomed the crowd. We need you. WS RISE has enlisted the support of many, including Winston-Salem State University and its Center for the Study of Economic Mobility (CSEM), which shares WS RISEs emphasis on breaking down the barriers to wealth-building in East Winston and reversing generations of poverty. Alvin Atkinson, who retired as CSEM Associate Director at the end of 2022 , has been a strong RISE supporter. The WS RISE Summit represents the beginning of a new approach for our community to create a new prescription to cure the entrenched inequities caused institutional and systemic racism, Atkinson said. Understandably, the prescription will require courage, perseverance and significant financial commitments by the entire Winston-Salem community. My hope is that we will be ready to meet this opportunity with the will and the power to see it through. With a slogan of Putting Black lives first for a change, WS RISE has a vision statement of A just community that provides full access to opportunities & prosperity for all its citizens and a mission statement of developing and partnering with community-led initiatives that eradicate all racial disparities for Black people. WSSU Chancellor Elwood Robinson also welcomed the December symposium participants, emphasizing the universitys goal of reaching beyond its walls to the surrounding communities in East Winston. He spoke of equity in education, food and health benefits. Thats what WS RISE is all about, he said. As the speakers finished their morning remarks, the participants filed into classrooms, where moderators listened closely throughout the day to their feedback on key issues such as education, health and wellness, food security, housing, criminal justice, jobs and workforce development, economic development, and civic engagement. Lafayette Jones of Winston-Salem, a WS RISE supporter, led a visitor by the break-outs sessions in classrooms, occasionally subtly opening a door to hear the lively dialogue inside. This is what its all about, he said. They will be heard. Beneficial change will come from within the community of lived experiences. He knows his subject well. Over a 40-year period , Jones and his business and life partner, Sandra Miller Jones, built successful business partnerships as they made a national mark with their marketing companies. He and another WS RISE member, Michael Suggs, founded the Goler Community Development Corp. (CDC) in 1998 , an organization that has executed more than $50 million in federal, state, county and city housing, workforce development and other programs. WS RISE members and participants are a new generation committed to collaborating and building a better community, with a focus on east Winston. Key to that is getting the white-dominated corporate power structure to invest in Black communities in ways that really give dollars back to those communities and their residents, and not just to the companies, Bahiyyah Maroon, the Chief Executive Officer at the Polis Institute, based in Florida, suggested in an online address at the start of the symposium. You can genuinely create equitable revitalization, she said. WS RISE and the Polis Institute, in collaboration, were recently awarded a $281,000 grant by the Kate B. Reynolds Charitable Trust to help identify a safety net from those with lived experience anything that keeps them from further disaster, such as job loss for lack of day care, homelessness, family hunger or and health-insurance cancellation. Mary Humphrey Hendrick of the WS RISE project team indicated that the input received from the symposium will inform the organizations blueprint for change. Paula McCoy, the WS RISE chairwoman, said the goal is to create a just community for all citizens. WS RISE is planning a larger, communitywide event, a Grand Summit, in the Spring to collaborate on creating a measurable success blueprint for East Winston. This an opportunity for the people to be heard, an event where they can share their hard-earned experience and collaborate. Beneficial change is coming. SAN DIEGO Alejandro Mayorkas is both Latino and a refugee. That means that, for House Republicans, the homeland security secretary started out with two strikes. Mayorkas a former U.S. attorney and former director of U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services was sworn in as DHS secretary in February 2021. Just six months later, before Mayorkas had even finished decorating his office, Rep. Andy Biggs (R-Ariz.) said he intended to file articles of impeachment against the homeland security secretary over the Biden administrations mishandling of the crisis at the U.S.-Mexico border. Over the past 18 months, the drumbeat for impeaching Mayorkas has gotten louder. House Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) has said Mayorkas should either resign or be impeached. This week, the Republican-controlled House Judiciary Committee held hearings on the chaotic situation at the border. The narrative was that Bidens border policies as carried out by Mayorkas are making communities around the country less safe. When discussing immigration, Republicans love to oversimplify. Now they want to punish a career bureaucrat for as they see it singlehandedly creating the worst migrant crisis in decades. In House Republicans eyes, the fact that tens of thousands of desperate people from all over the globe are pounding on Americas door, looking for safe haven and second chances, is not really attributable to poverty, hurricanes, floods, political assassinations, civil unrest, gang violence, lack of jobs or Russias war against Ukraine. No, they say this border madness is the mischief and mayhem of just one man: Alejandro Mayorkas. Born in Havana in 1959 and brought to the United States the following year as a refugee by his parents, who were looking foryou guessed itsafe haven and a second chance, Mayorkas makes the perfect scapegoat for the GOP. Same as it ever was. The history of U.S. immigration policy has always been about shirking responsibility and finding fall guys. Worried about crime, a bad economy or national identity, earlier generations of Americans blamed the Germans, Irish, Chinese, Italians, Jews. Anyone who looked different, or spoke a different language, was cast as a villain out to harm America. From California to Washington, D.C., todays Republicans have shown that their favorite immigrant scapegoats are Latinos. Nothing gets the GOP basewhich is overwhelmingly white more fired up than Mexican flags and being told to press 1 for English. So now that they control the House however tentative McCarthys grasp on the gavel Republicans are making it their first priority to purge someone whom they never trusted to head the department tasked with protecting the homeland. Put bluntly, if Mayorkas had been born Miller or Mayfield or Moffit, Republicans wouldnt be trying to make him the convenient foil for a border crisis that is more complicated than politicians admit. How complicated? For one thing, Republicans deserve as much blame as anyone for the decades-old phenomenon of poor and desperate people in the south heading north. For the past three decades, the party that bills itself as pro-business has gone soft on employers of undocumented immigrants which has, in turn, resulted in more hiring and more immigrants who cross the border seeking to be hired. Still, while impeachment would be racist and unfair, I wouldnt be sorry to see Mayorkas resign or be fired by the president. I was an early supporter. I loved his life story, and I was impressed by his resume. But Ive since decided that this guy is just wrong for this job. Mayorkas is a lawyer, and he acts like a politician. For instance, the secretary has been less than honest with regard to Title 42, the section of the U.S. Code that allows the U.S. to keep out migrants under the pretext of protecting public health. There is no doubt the administration was relieved when the Supreme Court, in December, extended the life of Title 42. Yet, Mayorkas said in interviews that the administration had tried hard for months to end the provision. If so, those efforts would come as news to reporters who cover the border. The truth is that the administration had kept Title 42 in place for nearly two years despite President Bidens pledge to end it. Mayorkas must go. Not because one man caused the crisis on the U.S.-Mexico border. Thats GOP nonsense. But because dishonesty and double talk make any crisis including this one worse. Due to the untimely death of nationally acclaimed actor Michael Krebs last Sunday, the two free public events planned at the Nebraska History Museum Feb. 9 and 11 to celebrate Abraham Lincolns birthday will continue, but will no longer include reenactments of President Abe and First Lady Mary Todd Lincoln. As producer of With Lincoln Productions, Krebs had portrayed the former president since 1994 and performed for hundreds of events, celebrations and schools throughout the years. Krebs was scheduled to visit Lincoln with his longtime acting colleague, Debra Miller, and perform for a variety of audiences, including students at Lincoln North Star High school and other public events. We were shocked and saddened to hear of Michael Krebs passing, said Chris Goforth, marketing manager for History Nebraska, which will present the city of Lincolns 20th Abraham Lincoln birthday celebration at the museum. History Nebraska extends our deepest sympathies to the many family, friends and colleagues of Mr. Krebs and wish them peace and comfort in this time of great sorrow. The event will no longer include the reenactments, but all other activities are still planned, Goforth said. The events activities were listed in the Jan. 28 Neighborhood Extra. To read that article, go to www.neighborhoodextra.com and see the story titled Abraham Lincoln birthday celebration returns in February. The program that had been scheduled for 6 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 9, Interpreting Lincoln: Yesterday and Today, has been rescheduled to Thursday, April 13. More information will be made available in the weeks leading up to the event. Seafood firms look to second quarter for exports to recover Despite a downturn in the export of aquatic products in the first month of 2023, exporters remain optimistic that the market will recover from the second quarter of this year, according to the Vietnam Association of Seafood Exporters and Producers (VASEP). Shrimp processing line for exports. Although in 2022, the country posted a record aquatic export value of $11 billion, the result mostly came from high growth in the first three quarters. The association reported that in January, the total export value of aquatic products dropped 31 per cent to about US$600 million, with revenue generated from major markets also falling by 56 per cent in the US market, 55 per cent in China, and 35 per cent in the EU market. Although the country posted a record aquatic export value of $11 billion in 2022, the result mostly came from high growth in the first three quarters. The trend reversed in the fourth quarter of 2022, with strong decreases in all products as many foreign markets were hit by high inflation. Noting that seafood is an essential food item, Nguyen Thi Anh, Director of Song Tien Seafood Corporation, predicted that from the end of the first quarter and the beginning of the second quarter of this year, orders would start to increase, particularly for affordable products. She advised exporters to further exploit markets with high growth in the year, including those in Asia and the Middle East, to improve order numbers. Experts asserted that there would be many risks in 2023 from the Russia-Ukraine conflict and the possible occurrence of new trade tensions, affecting seafood supply in major markets. The situation would likely bring challenges and opportunities for Vietnamese seafood, especially in the US, China and the EU. Particularly, the reopening of China after a long period of applying their Zero COVID policy also brought great hope for demand recovery in the market and other markets worldwide when tourism and trade activities become smoother. VASEP General Secretary Truong inh Hoe said that businesses expected market demand would improve and their seafood export activities would inflate again from the second quarter of 2023. In an optimistic scenario, he said that seafood exports in 2023 might fetch $10 billion. He advised local firms to ensure their financial capacity to maintain stable production and materials to meet the demand at any time while adjusting their business development strategy better to meet requirements, legal regulations and standards of markets. A CTA bus crashed into a currency exchange after the bus and a car were involved in an accident at the corner of 111th Street and Michigan Avenue in Chicago on Feb. 3, 2023. Four people were transported to area hospitals following the accident. (Chris Sweda / Chicago Tribune) A chain reaction wreck that began with a car running a red light ended with a CTA bus plowing into a Far South Side currency exchange and four people being injured, Chicago police said. It happened about 6 p.m. Friday when a Nissan Maxima ran a red light and hit a CTA bus that was northbound on South Michigan Avenue near East 111th Street, officials said. Advertisement The bus driver then lost control and crashed into the 111th and Michigan Currency Exchange, said Chicago fire Deputy Chief Francisco Velez. Chicago police investigate the scene of an accident involving a car and a CTA bus that crashed into a currency exchange at the corner of 111th Street and Michigan Avenue in Chicago on Feb. 3, 2023. (Chris Sweda / Chicago Tribune) A 48-year-old male passenger of the bus was taken to Roseland Community Hospital in good condition while a 54-year-old male passenger was taken to Advocate Trinity Hospital, also in good condition, police said. Advertisement The driver of the bus, a 28-year-old woman, was taken to Little Company of Mary Hospital with minor injuries, police said. The driver of the car, a 20-year-old man, was taken to Advocate Christ Medical Center in Oak Lawn in good condition. Authorities were still on scene as of 7:30 p.m. and Velez said the citys Buildings Department had been called in. Police did not announce any charges or citations as of 8 p.m. Friday. Passengers on a United Airlines flight en route to Las Vegas on Saturday were grounded for several hours at the Lincoln Airport. The Boeing 777-200 jet reported losing power to an engine and was diverted to the Lincoln Airport, where it landed safely just before noon. There were 326 people on the flight, which departed Chicagos OHare International Airport at about 10 a.m. Lincoln Airport Authority Police Sgt. Kyle Jackson said pilots declared the emergency approximately 70 miles west of Lincoln. The jet was diverted to Lincoln, where commercial airline travel currently involves 50-passenger regional jets. As far as our commercial side goes, this is the biggest aircraft Ive seen land since Ive been here, Jackson said. Passengers exited the plane using one of the airports jetways and waited in the gate area. Airport officials provided water and food for them as they waited for word on when they would be able to resume their flight. The Lincoln Airport is currently undergoing a terminal renovation project to modernize passenger accommodations, including adding food and drink service in the gate areas. A United jet dispatched from Denver to pick up the passengers and get them to Las Vegas was to arrive at about 5 p.m. Top Journal Star photos for January 2023 The Nebraska Supreme Court this week was faced with the unusual question of what to do in the case of a man serving prison time on a charge where a state employee may have stolen the evidence. Gabriel Muratella is asking for a new trial. It's at least the third case over the same issue currently pending before the state's highest court. Muratella's public defender argued Muratella wouldn't have pleaded no contest to attempted possession with intent to deliver, a charge for which he's now serving an eight- to 12-year sentence, if he'd known of the misconduct. In November 2021, his attorney got an email from the Lancaster County Attorney's Office with a letter attached, disclosing that his case had been identified as part of a Nebraska State Patrol drug-related investigation that resulted in a conviction and sentence. The letter said: "You are advised that it is possible that during the time any drug-related evidence in this case was in the custody of NSP, it may have been directly or indirectly maintained by or otherwise subject to the oversight of the former evidence technician," referring to Anna Idigima. She and George Weaver Jr. are facing federal charges for allegedly conspiring to steal and sell more than $1.2 million worth of narcotics from the patrol's evidence facility. "And that implicated really any case she (Idigima) was involved in," Deputy Lancaster County Public Defender Chelsie Krell said Thursday. In Muratella's case, Idigima was in the chain of custody for the 18 grams of methamphetamine that Muratella was accused of trying to possess. It wasn't clear if she did anything wrong in regard to it. "However, the implication is that she may have, and that is why it is necessary to have a new trial in this case," Krell said. She called it a manifest injustice and said the defense should be able to find out what happened to the evidence in the case, which only could be done if the case were reopened. In district court, the state didn't oppose the motions and conceded that if Muratella were allowed to withdraw his plea it wouldn't retry him. But last year, Lancaster County District Judge Lori Maret ruled that Muratella couldn't ask for a new trial under Nebraska law because he didn't have a trial, he pleaded no contest. And the Constitution doesn't require the government to disclose material impeachment evidence prior to a plea agreement, like it does before a trial, she said. In oral arguments before the Supreme Court on Thursday, Assistant Nebraska Attorney General Austin Relph said he thinks Maret's rulings on the defense motions to withdraw Muratella's plea and for a new trial were correct. "It was his (Muratella's) burden to plead and prove it," Relph said. He said since the case involved a final judgment, Muratella should have filed a motion for post-conviction relief instead. He said Muratella had a year to do that and didn't. Krell called it a "hopefully very rare circumstance where we have egregious misconduct by a state actor." "Who is to bear the burden of this injustice? Is it the defendants?" she said. "Are the defendants given no opportunity for vindication without a vehicle to explore exactly the extent of her wrongdoing in this case?" The Supreme Court took the case under advisement. Top Journal Star photos for February 2023 Jayleesha Cooper said her life changed when she attended Holy Name School in Omaha. Where she was previously struggling in public school, Cooper said she thrived at the Catholic school. But she was only able to attend the school, she said, through a scholarship, even with her mother working multiple jobs. "There's no reason that a parent should have to sacrifice so much time with their children just to afford a quality education," Cooper said. She testified before the Legislature's Revenue Committee on Friday to support LB753, which Sen. Lou Ann Linehan of Omaha hopes will help more students like Cooper attend schools that cater to their needs. LB753 would create income tax credits for donations to organizations that provide scholarships to attend parochial schools. The amount available for tax credits would start at $25 million in 2024, with annual increases of up to 25% possible in future years, although Linehan said she planned to bring an amendment that would push those increases back two years. The public hearing Friday stretched for more than five hours, concluding without a vote on whether to advance the bill. Other supporting testimony for LB753 largely came from former students of parochial schools like Cooper, or people who have worked for them. They all attested to the value of private schools. Opponents were mostly made up of public school representatives, along with parents, policy groups and religious officials. They argued that LB753 would harm public schools and Nebraska students while allowing private corporations to take advantage of state benefits. "This system will bleed your funding and endanger the children you intend to help," said Vanessa Clark, dean of Trinity Episcopal Cathedral in Omaha. Linehan, the Revenue Committee chair, has made multiple attempts to pass similar measures in previous sessions, but those efforts failed to make it across the finish line. This time around, she introduced the legislation with the support of Gov. Jim Pillen and has 29 state senators co-sponsoring it, including a few lawmakers who opposed the previous efforts. Pillen testified in support of LB753, saying the bill was just one piece of his education plan, which also includes increasing state dollars for public schools through a $1 billion education fund. He said the bill is not about pitting public schools against private schools, referencing a claim made by critics. "We need both for a great quality of life," Pillen said. Linehan also took time to address claims made by opponents, which she said was "misinformation." She said the bill would not support for-profit schools, nor would it take money away from public schools. She said the scholarships would be distributed to students through a tiered system largely based on need. Opponents disputed Linehan's claims. The most common argument was that the money meant for LB753 should support public schools instead. Cheryl Logan, superintendent of Omaha Public Schools, said the $25 million that would be diverted from the general fund under the bill would be better served going to the state's school funding formula. Money doesnt exist in one pot, Logan said. Its all connected. Sen. Kathleen Kauth of Omaha, a Revenue Committee member, pressed Logan on her opposition to the bill, saying she found it absolutely ridiculous that she would oppose a measure Kauth believes will help students receive a better education. Kauth asked Logan if she would like the state to get rid of other tax credits that go to support causes such as affordable housing. She didnt let Logan fully answer that question, and instead pressed Logan about OPS students' test scores, which she implied were low. Logan noted that OPS has both the highest- and lowest-performing schools in the state. Though she said it can be easy to generalize OPS as the largest district in Nebraska, the district serves students that most private schools would not enroll. Kauth is a co-sponsor of LB753. In total, six of the eight members of the Revenue Committee are sponsors of the bill. Several representatives of nonprofits said encouraging donations to private schools under the bill would in turn discourage donations to public schools. Some opponents also said LB753 would benefit wealthy Nebraskans receiving the tax credits more than it would actually help disadvantaged children. "This bill is not about helping kids," said Tim Royers with the Nebraska State Education Association. "It's about money." A few critics drew comparisons to other states that have passed similar measures, claiming such efforts lowered the quality of education in those states, and allowed corporations and for-profit schools to take advantage of the programs over time. Meet the Nebraska state senators making laws in 2023 Omaha is no stranger to parks. When the city was first platted in 1854, three parks, each a square block on the map, were set aside with one becoming the site of the Nebraska territorial capitol. In addition, Jefferson Square, in Block 42, and Washington Square at 15th and Farnam were mapped. Washington Square became the site of the Douglas County Courthouse while Jefferson Square housed a school building from 1858 to 1867, only to be built over about 1970. Another early park, which began as Syndicate Park, changed and grew, today becoming, arguably, the finest park of its kind in the United States. Overlooking the public square parks, what is usually called Omahas first park was given to the city by Andrew Jackson Hanscom, James Megeath and others in 1872 as the 57-acre Hanscom Park which contained a lake, lily pond, bandstand and pavilion. In 1884 Syndicate Park, outside Omahas city limits, was laid out by the South Omaha Land Co. on 100 acres of well-timbered land which also contained several springs. After the land company offered to sell it to the city, which declined, the land company fenced it and, in 1892, sold off two-thirds as building lots leaving about 37-acres as a triangular park on South 22nd Street. In 1892 bonds were issued to improve the citys parks and, although many felt it was too far away to be popular, 65-acres were purchased, partially by eminent domain, as Riverview Park to the south. In 1896 additional land was purchased and animals were obtained for what was then called Riverview Park Zoo. In 1898 nearly 200-acres of Omaha land was transferred into a literal worlds fair with over 100 grand buildings, a midway, American Indian Congress and well over 5,000 exhibits which attracted over 2.5 million visitors. A booklet, aimed at fairgoers from outside Omaha, listed local companies and sites including the citys parks. It noted Hanscom Park as its best known and most popular with two lakes, bridal-paths, greenhouse and concert stand, all available to fairgoers by a direct motor line. It also mentioned Riverview Park, two miles distant, in the extreme southeast part of the city. The 60-acre park was the most beautiful of Omahas parks, cost $79,000 and covered with timber. When the Transmississippi Exposition closed, virtually all of its structures were razed. One of the few buildings saved, at least temporarily, was identified as a Greek temple, which was moved to Riverview Park and illustrated above as a pavilion. The description as a Greek temple is confusing and probably inaccurate. The Boys and Girls Building at the exposition was described as a $5,000, 100 by 50-foot, T-shaped, pillared, structure containing an auditorium, girls' room and boys' room, each 24 by 19 feet, with a mothers' room, model nursery, all located on the northeast corner of the Grand Court. It was most probably this building which was taken apart and reconstructed at Riverview Park. The Omaha Bee editorialized, in 1901, that Riverview Park was a veritable enchanted domain with bluffs, promontories, grand old trees, not littered with trash or profaned with bridges, summer houses or mathematically correct flower beds. The newspaper further encouraged the street railway to be extended a mere three blocks, to really open the park to visitors. It was, however, to be years before the extension from Syndicate Park to the west was completed. Syndicate Park was renamed Spring Lake Park in the early part of the 20th century and noted as nearly connected to Riverview Park, from which there was a view of all of Council Bluffs across the river and even as far as Childs Point on the Nebraska side. In 1916, plans were made to officially connect Spring Lake Park and Riverview Park, with Spring Lake Park becoming one of the citys [most] popular pleasure resorts. Within a year, it was reported that Spring Lake Park was part of Riverview Park, where an elliptical swimming pool had been built. In 1938 the swimming pool was filled in and covered as being unsanitary and summarily forgotten. In the 1950s, the Omaha Zoological Society began urging that Riverview Park and Zoo be expanded, concentrating on the zoo function. Mrs. Henry Doorly granted $750,000 to the park, providing its name be changed with her husbands name permanently associated with the zoo. The long-forgotten swimming pool was re-excavated, becoming a sea lion pool and, in 1964, the park was leased to the Omaha Zoological Society. Recalling a warning in 1890, when an editorial noted the land, though far from the citys center, should be reserved for a park before the city limits reached the area, Riverview Park/Henry Doorly Zoo has expanded and easily become the most famous of Omahas over 250 parks, now bounded by the Interstate highway, the railroad/Missouri River and 10th Street with the original caretakers house perhaps the most visible remnant of the original park. The zoos recognition as perhaps the finest in the U. S., began with the $15 million Lied Jungle, which is the worlds largest indoor rain forest while the Henry Doorly Zoo still continues to grow and expand animal research and animal habitats. Top Journal Star photos for January 2023 The Lincoln Arts Council (LAC) has announced the recipients of its 2023 upstArt Grants program. Since expanding the program, upstArt Grants are awarded to arts organizations that provide programming to under-resourced populations, as well as non-arts focused social service organizations that seek to incorporate the arts into their assistive services. We want to bring arts opportunities to those who can benefit most from that access, said Troy Gagner, executive director of the Lincoln Arts Council. The changes to our grants program to prioritize serving Lincolns under-resourced groups and expand grants awards to $2,500 lets us do that. Additional funding allows organizations to do more, and our programs refocus and expansion better addresses the needs of the community. Expanding the upstArt Grants program prioritizes funding for projects that align with the goal of LACs upstArt program, which is to offer the arts therapeutically to the populations that need it most. Funding for the grants program is made possible by the Ken Good Beautification Fund in honor of Goods lifelong vision for a future filled with beauty. A total of 18 grants ($40,000) were awarded to the following organizations and projects that seek to use the arts to better the lives of those in need: 2023 upstArt grant recipients Arc of Lincoln, for bringing monthly art and social experiences to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities as well as their parents, siblings and caregivers through Arcs Come Together and Friendly Faces programs. Art Bus LNK, in collaboration with Vital Services, for providing educational art opportunities through free, accessible community programming through its mobile art studio. Asian Community & Cultural Center, for its digital storytelling program, Untold Migrant Stories, an opportunity for immigrant and refugee youth in Lincoln to document and share their lived experiences with the public. Capital Jazz Society, for providing area jazz musicians and all-age ensembles with a regular venue to showcase their talents with the community and promote student and professional musician mentorships. Civic Nebraska, in partnership with Lux Center for the Arts, to strengthen social bonds of the University Place Neighborhood by creating community-led art installations in the area. Eastmont Foundation, for engaging two generations to learn from one another and using the visual arts to convey a message of how art bridges the gap between generations. ECHO Collective, for its creative circles program and art courses that provide accessible arts opportunities in quilting, bead weaving and textile weaving for refugee and immigrant women. F Street Church, to bring arts activities, supplies and instruction to residents of Center Pointe Residential Rehab through the churchs art outing initiative. Flatwater Shakespeare Company, to provide families in the community with opportunities to enjoy the outdoors and free Shakespearian theater performances though the companys Flatwater Free Shakespeare program in Lincolns parks. Lincoln Calling, for bringing recognition to underrepresented communities and promoting a celebration of music with live performative showcases and music at its 2023 fall festival. Lincoln Literacy, for bringing arts-enriched English language activities to youth of immigrant and refugee families while providing English language instruction to their parents through the organizations FLAIR program. Lincoln Music Teachers Association for its Music Outreach program, which provides low-cost music lessons, instruments and their upkeep, sheet music and community performance opportunities for up to 50 area limited-resource children. Lincolns Symphony Orchestra, for providing transportation support for immigrant and refugee students and their families to attend the orchestras Family Concerts series. Lux Center for the Arts, for providing elementary school-aged students from Title 1 schools in the neighborhood around the center with a free opportunity to explore visual art using Montessori-inspired learning activities as part of its Open Art Saturdays program. Midwest African Museum of Art, for promoting African culture in schools and community centers throughout Lincoln with culture-focused classes on African Drums, dance, music and storytelling. Mourning Hope, in partnership with the Lux Center for the Arts, for offering community-based Art from Our Heart programs to connect Lincolns bereaved youth at the Mourning Hope Grief Center with local artists. Nebraska Brass, for bringing educational outreach workshops and performances to youth through visits to Lincoln elementary schools and public concerts open to the community. Yankee Hill Bells, in a partnership with Southwood Lutheran Church, for bringing residents of Yankee Hill Village Assisted Living the opportunity to come together and share in community, singing and ringing chimes. For more information about the Lincoln Arts Council or LAC upstArt Grants program, visit https://artscene.org/what_we_do/upstart/upstart-grants.html, or contact Alesha Mickey, grants manager, at 402-641-8944 or alesha@artscene.org. RACINE Thank you to the Racine community. The Salvation Army of Racine appreciates the trust and confidence in the organization to serve the neediest in our community. An overwhelming expression of gratitude goes to Fisk Johnson for once again offering a Match Day Dec. 17. The Racine community donated a total of $32,894 at the red kettles on Match Day, and Johnson contributed $61,000 in a match donation. On behalf of the Advisory Board of The Salvation Army of Racine, we would like to thank Dr. Fisk Johnson for his generous donation to The Salvation Army Red Kettle Campaign Match Day on Dec. 17, said Randy Savaglio, Advisory Board chairman. We sincerely appreciate his kindness and want him to know we never just expect this every year. So many children and others will benefit gratefully in the Racine community. First Call Heating & Cooling also matched donations at two kettle locations Dec. 23. Its employees braved ringing during one of the coldest days of December, garnering $1,000 in donations Donations stay here All money donated at the red kettles and mailed to the Racine Salvation Army stays in the community, meeting needs throughout the year. Here is a glance at what donations provided in 2022: 24,333 children received a healthy, hot dinner meal through the Healthy Kids Diner at five of Racine COP houses, a part of the child nutrition program. 10,600 Racine Unified School District children received a weekend food sack through the Kids Backpack Food Program, also a part of the child nutrition program. 3,115 families and individuals received meat, dairy, cheese, produce, perishable and non-perishable food items, hygiene and cleaning products, coats and winter wear through the Salvation Army food pantry. Parents and guardians also receive baby supplies such as formula and diapers. 58 individuals received housing assistance to avoid homelessness. Toys for kids The 2022 Angel Tree Christmas program provided 1,179 children with toys and gift cards. Toys for the program are collected through the United States Marines Toys for Tots program, and 21 area businesses and individuals. Local businesses and individuals also participated in the Adopt A Family program, which provided Christmas gifts for 50 local families this year. Volunteers are key Many individuals, community groups and area businesses volunteered to ring bells at the red kettles. Each volunteers gift of time is an immeasurable contribution; their presence at each kettle makes a significant difference between a full kettle and an empty kettle. A total of 317 individuals volunteered 388 hours, and 22 community groups and area businesses volunteered 428 hours. SC Johnson employees and their family members volunteered 58 hours on Match Day and First Call Heating & Cooling had employees ring for 16 hours. Festival Foods also had an employee ring day on Dec. 19. The Salvation Army appreciates all the stores that participate in the Red Kettle Campaign. The Salvation Army also has counter kettles at 14 area restaurants and businesses where individuals can donate while making their purchases. The Salvation Armys ministry has had a longstanding impact in Racine since the 1800s, said Capt. Edward Williams, Corps officer. We are beyond grateful for the support of individuals, families and businesses whose generosity helps us to continue meeting human needs in Jesus name throughout our community. One man is in custody after Kenosha County Sheriffs Department personnel responded to a business in the Village of Somers Friday afternoon after reports of shots being fired. According to sheriffs department investigators on scene, a domestic dispute took place inside LG Beauty Salon, 1543 Sheridan Road, between a male and female who are both employed there. The male subject reportedly fired shots at the female and then attempted to shoot himself. Department personnel responded at 3:28 p.m. Sheriffs department deputies arrived on the scene within minutes and the male subject, who has not yet been identified, was taken into custody. The female and male were not injured by the gunfire. At the time of the incident, it is believed there were up to five bystanders/patrons in the establishment. None of the bystanders/patrons were injured. This is an active investigation. No further details are available at this time. Our deputies did an excellent job in safely evacuating everyone within the business and taking the suspect into custody without incident, said Sheriff David Zoerner, who also responded to the scene. The public is encouraged to contact the Kenosha County Sheriffs Department Detective Bureau with any information at 262-605-5102 or anonymously to the Kenosha County Crime Stoppers at 262-656-7333. RACINE The 1940s-era mural depicting city founder Gilbert Knapp arriving by boat to the land that would one day be called Racine has not been displayed in decades. The 43-by-12-foot painting is comprised of three panels. The primary panel shows Knapp approaching the shore from Lake Michigan, with indigenous people watching from the shoreline. An accompanying panel shows settlers clearing the land and a third panel shows early farming. The artist responsible for the painting was Santos Zingale, who also was a professor of art at the University of Wisconsin. The painting, generally referred to as the Zingale mural, was first displayed at the Mitchell School library in 1941. However, in the 1950s, the library underwent renovations, and the mural was rolled up and placed in the basement and hasnt been on display since. Still, when local Wind Point resident Doug Chaussee came across a rolled up canvas in a rubble heap inside Wind Point School before it was demolished, he knew exactly what it was. New Deal art The Zingale mural is from a time when artists were commissioned for public projects as part of the federal governments effort to address unemployment, which was hovering at 25%, during the Great Depression. The Works Progress Administration oversaw five programs, including Federal Project Number One, which was designed specifically to employ artists. There was debate initially about whether to include artists because they really did not have jobs to lose, unlike so many other people at the time. Harry Hopkins, who was initially in charge of New Deal relief programs, ended the debate after saying, Hell, theyve got to eat just like other people. The program was allocated $27 million and helped sustain more than 10,000 artists and craft workers during the Great Depression, who produced more than 400,000 works of art that went to hang in public buildings. Fire The Zingale mural was in the basement of Mitchell School on Feb. 27, 2014, when a fire broke out in the gymnasium and it sustained significant water damage. The mural was sent to the Conservation Center in Chicago for restoration, which was to be paid by insurance. However, once there, conservators discovered lead paint on the back. They theorized the mural was hung using adhesive, and when it was taken down, lead paint from the wall clung to the adhesive. Initially, conservators estimated it would cost $91,140 to restore the mural and an additional $28,745 to install it somewhere. But the discovery of lead paint on the back tripled the cost with conservators estimating mitigation plus restoration would cost more than $300,000. Insurance would only cover costs up to the value of the mural itself, which was undetermined. The mural was sent back to Racine, rolled up and wrapped in plastic, and stored at the vacant Wind Point Elementary School. The Living New Deal, a research project and online archive of everything New Deal, claims that when it contacted Racine Unified School District in 2021 for information about the mural, the district said it had been lost or stolen. It was neither. Found Chaussee is a part-time collector of interesting architectural items found in old buildings. He is aided in this hobby by Sam Azarian, who owns a demolition company. The two have been friends since third grade at Wind Point School. Chaussee said he rescues items from buildings that are going to be torn down and finds new homes for them. That was how he came to be at the Wind Point School in 2018, shortly before it was demolished. When he initially saw the rolled up canvas sitting in a trash heap, Chaussee said he became curious. As he began to unroll it, Chaussee said he initially thought it was a painted backdrop used in theater productions. He described it as really beat up. The Zingale mural had never been displayed in his lifetime, but The Journal Times wrote extensively about it after the Mitchell fire, and Chaussee, who has long been interested in Racines history, suddenly realized what he had. It was literally a jaw-dropping moment, he said. All of us involved in the preservation of Racine history knew of the mural and its three panels of Gilbert Knapps discovery of Racine. It appears as though the mural was wrapped around a heavy cardboard tube, which are fairly expensive, Chaussee said. Someone took the tube and left the mural in the trash heap. It was hours, or days at most, from going into the dumpster, Chaussee said. Chaussee said he called RUSD about the mural and was told the district had the mural and it was in storage. Only they didnt. They were completely indifferent to the history, the value, the importance of the piece to Racine, he said. Chaussee began researching WPA murals and learned the governments General Service Administration claimed ownership of all artwork paid for by WPA funds. If the art was not being used or housed in a sanctioned organization, such as a school or post office, it was to be returned to the federal government. Chaussee said he imagined a scene from the end of Raiders of the Lost Ark a huge warehouse of lost and/or hidden items. And no one would ever see it again, he said. Chaussee said he didnt feel like he could let that happen. Art was meant to be seen and appreciated especially this piece that is so important to Racine history. Chaussee attempted to find home for the mural, but its size and the need for expensive restoration complicated the effort, and he couldnt find anyone who could accommodate it. RUSD Out of options, Chaussee decided to give RUSD another opportunity. This time he got through to Peter Reynolds, the districts chief operations officer. Chaussee said they had a long conversation about the mural, and he felt confident he had found someone he could trust with the mural. In January 2023, the mural was transferred from Chaussee to RUSD. My hope is that Unified and the public will get behind the project, get it restored, and display it where people can see it and appreciate it, he said. Its been hidden from public view for close to 70 years and deserves a place of prominence to be appreciated by everyone in the area. According to Stacy Tapp, RUSD chief of communications and community engagement, the district is still considering what to do with the mural, noting there are significant costs related to restoration and mitigation of the lead paint. She said the mural is being stored in one of the districts warehouses, where it will remain until RUSD is able to move forward with restoration or it is returned to the federal government. Worst blizzard ever: Remembering the 'Big Snow' of 1881 Snow bank in Sheboygan Just enough room Massive drifts in Sheboygan Scene in Whitewater After "the big snow" Buried railroad tracks Digging by hand 10 to 12 feet high Posing among the banks Headline from the March 4, 1881, State Journal State Journal front page March 4, 1881 1. Yes. Having a community member interview panel is an excellent opportunity for input. 2. Yes. Its good that the city will allow residents to meet the finalist at a reception. 3. No. The city should have conducted a public survey early in the process, as KISD is doing. 4. No. Residents should be able to meet candidates before a lone finalist is chosen. 5. Unsure. Its hard to know how to gauge the proper level of public involvement. Vote View Results Lakshman Gogada, one of the two shooting survivors, stands outside the University of Chicago Center for Care and Discovery, Feb. 3, 2023, in Hyde Park. (Shanna Madison / Chicago Tribune) Lakshman Gogada and two roommates hopped onto a bus one evening last month on their way to shop for a Wi-Fi router for their new apartment on the citys South Side. They were five steps from entering a Walmart when they were robbed at gunpoint and Gogadas roommates both of whom had arrived from India only 10 days earlier were shot, one fatally, Gogada told the Tribune. Advertisement I was saved by Gods grace, but they both were hit by bullets, said Gogada, 22, who was not injured when, according to police, five people pulled up to them in a stolen 2020 Kia Forte on Jan. 22, at the students walked through a parking lot on South Holland Road. We just gave the phone and money, but they only took the money and left the phones, and even after giving, they just shot, Gogada said After hearing the shot sounds, I just laid down on the ground. Advertisement Devasish Nandepu, 23, was pronounced dead the next morning of a gunshot wound to the back, while Sai Charan Koppala, 22, suffered a gunshot wound to the chest, authorities said. Koppala is expected to be discharged from the hospital soon, according to Gogada. Lakshman Gogada holds up a picture on his phone Feb. 3, 2023, showing Devasish Nandepu, who was posing for an Instagram photo. (Shanna Madison / Chicago Tribune) The three graduate students had recently arrived in Chicago from India to study. Gogada arrived Dec. 18 after enrolling in the spring semester of a graduate program at the Illinois Institute of Technology, while Koppala and Nandepu came from India to start the spring semester at Governors State University. They became close friends after Gogada, from Visakhapatnam, a city in the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh, met Koppala and Nandepu, both of Hyderabad, a city in the Indian state of Telangana, and began to room together. A statement from Governors State University said Nandepu was killed in a senseless robbery after having just arrived in the U.S. about 10 days prior to the shooting and beginning classes at the university the week prior. While this should be a time of excitement for the new academic semester, we are instead left troubled about the gun violence that prevails in Chicago and throughout this country, the statement said. This is the time of year that we should be full of hope and anticipation of what a new semester should bring, instead, we are left wondering what Devasishs life would have been. This loss is a global trauma as Devasish was an international student. The events that led to the shooting began when the trio decided to grab a bus from their apartment to 87th Street and Lafayette Avenue and walk the rest of the way, about a half a mile, to the Walmart at 8431 S. Stewart Ave. They were almost there when suddenly the Kia pulled up and two gunmen wearing face masks jumped out. One was carrying a long gun, possibly a rifle, and the other a handgun, as they began to demand the victims belongings, according to a Chicago police report. Get on the ground, they yelled, saying they wanted their cellphones and pass codes but after snatching a $5 bill and a $1 bill, without the phones, the attacker with the rifle began to shoot hitting Koppala and Nandepu, according to the police report. Advertisement The shooter got back in the Kia and fled. After that, I just called 911 and asked for help. Devasish was conscious at the time, and even he called 911 from his phone. Koppala was spitting blood from his mouth, so I went to him and was keeping him conscious. He was going unconscious, and I made him conscious, Gogada said. Then the police and emergency guys came. Trucker Kyle Flournoy, 33, from Henrietta, a town near Rochester, New York, was taking a break inside his 18-wheeler, parked on the street between the nearby Lowes and Walmart, he said as he recalled the events of that day. I heard a couple of pops go off, said Flournoy. As he turned to look over to where the shots were coming from, he spotted a group of five kids who appeared to be high school age, he said. They scattered immediately and started running the other way. Flournoy then saw a black car with its door open, and a man lying on the ground when the car revs off like, hits the gas and pulls off really hard, he said. They were driving directly toward me, Flournoy said. Advertisement Gogada said he was going back and forth between the two hospitals his friends were taken to the University of Chicago Medical Center and Christ Medical Center in Oak Lawn and trying to get updates from doctors while also staying in touch with police and asking them for news. Officers found three rifle shell casings at the scene and later found the Kia, still running, in the 8400 block of South Wabash Avenue. Gogada identified it as the one the attackers had used, the police report said. No arrests had been made as of Friday evening, police said. A local representative of the Telugu Association of North America told the Tribune he has been involved since the shooting happened by checking up on Koppala in the hospital and keeping in touch with Gogada. TANA is the largest and oldest Indo-American organization in North America, according to its website. As the groups spokesman made his way to the airport to pick up Koppalas parents, who had traveled to Chicago Thursday to be with their son, he was also in touch with the students families back in India and helped facilitate Nandepus body being sent back to India. Afternoon Briefing Daily Chicago Tribune editors' top story picks, delivered to your inbox each afternoon. By submitting your email to receive this newsletter, you agree to our Subscriber Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy > Vinod Gautam, a consul for the Consulate General of India in Chicago, said he heard about what happened through members of the community and other media sources, and immediately the consulate visited the hospital to see the students. Advertisement I had a chance to meet Sai Charan personally for two, three minutes only because he was on medication and doctors were examining him, Gautam said. But I went to see him and check if hes OK and if he needs anything. The consulate will continue to be available to Koppala as he recovers for anything he may need, Gautam said. Gogada said that although the roommates were still getting to know each other, he will cherish the good times they were able to have. He and Nandepu were the cooks of the household and would make meals together, Gogada said, while Koppala would take up dish duty. We used to have fun together, Gogada said. We would take some small trips around Chicago and have some food in Chicago, like getting Indian street food. It was nice. Devasish was very good. He was very close to my heart. Chicago Tribunes Rosemary Sobol contributed. sahmad@chicagotribune.com KEARNEY SCORR Marketing has a first that not many businesses can claim. Its top two executives are women. On Nov. 1, 2022, Krystle Buntemeyer was appointed CEO. Lea LaFerla was named president. SCORRs founder Cinda Orr is a woman, too, but she eyed their accomplishments, not their gender, in promoting them. SCORR, located at 2201 Central Ave., is a global, full-service marketing and communications firm serving the health science industry. Ben Rowe, SCORRs chief creative director and its fourth hire in 2005, confirmed that. The key to any business is people who are smart, people who complement each others skills. They work well together. These two leaders are set up for the next era of SCORR, and thats pretty exciting, he said. Buntemeyer has been with SCORR since 2004 and most recently served as president. In her new role, she oversees the companys day-to-day operational excellence for its global client base. It doesnt feel like 18 years. Every day, I get to grow here. We team members have grown up together in this business. As much as this organization has grown, there are still opportunities, she said. LaFerla, most recently SCORRs vice president of marketing services and business development, brings 25 years of sales and marketing experience in the clinical diagnostic, medical device and pharmaceutical industries. If youd ever told me Id be president of a marketing agency, Id have told you you were crazy, but I found an agency that believes in a strategic approach in solving challenges in the health sciences, she said. Krystle Buntemeyer Buntemeyers recognitions are impressive. She made Medical Marketing and Medias 2021 40 under 40 list. She was named 2017 Marketer of the Year by the American Marketing Association in Omaha and received the 2019 Distinguished Young Alumni Award from the University of Nebraska at Kearney. Buntemeyer grew up in Petersburg, a northeast Nebraska town of 300 people. Her mother was a nurse and physical therapist. Her father was a dispatcher. Health was always in our household, but I didnt have the stomach for it, she said. After she graduated from Albions Boone Center High School, most of her classmates headed off to the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, but I wanted to explore something new and different. I came to the University of Nebraska at Kearney campus and fell in love with it, she said. She majored in advertising, with a minor in marketing. I was always analytical, but I liked finding new creative solutions. This was a new ability to communicate in a way to solve problems and come up with new ideas, she said. While at UNK, when she learned about an internship at SCORR Marketing, she grabbed it. I wasnt even sure what an internship was, but I was willing to do anything, she said. She learned a lot from Rowe and SCORR founder Cinda Orr, especially the fact that they never said no to a clients request. Sometimes I thought, how do we do this? But wed get together, and whatever we needed, Cinda had done it, she said. One of her first internship projects was finding ways to boost visitation at The Archway. Bus tours brought visitors to central Nebraska, but defining the target audience and enticing them to The Archway was hazy, so Buntemeyer closeted herself in a former bank vault at SCORR and called every bank in Nebraska that offered tours. I got them signed up. I recall being so excited when I was able to get someone, she said. Buntemeyer scampered up the corporate ladder. She became an account executive, then an account manager, then president. She never considered leaving the company. She still loves the brainstorming process, just having various minds around the table. We have brainstorming sessions three or four times a week, and thats still one of my favorite parts of the job, she added. Lea LaFerla LaFerla has always loved science. I didnt want to be a nurse or a doctor, but I loved science, she said. A native of the Philadelphia suburb of Fort Washington, Pennsylvania, shes the daughter of a South Dakota-born nurse who ran the Visiting Nurses Association in Philadelphia. Her father, who grew up outside St. Louis, was a social worker and then a township manager who went into commercial real estate. She majored in biology at Ursinus College in Collegeville, Pennsylvania, and minored in education, but she scrapped that idea after one semester of student-teaching 10th grade biology. I was not equipped to handle 15-year-olds, she said. But one of the teachers had a daughter who was a pharmaceutical representative. LaFerla liked that idea. She interned in research and development at Merck, which led to a full-time job with Merck as a drug rep in Omaha. I was happy to have a good job. I was ready for adventure, she said. Id spent summers on my grandparents farm in South Dakota, so Omaha didnt scare me. I thought Id do that for two years and then come back to the East Coast. Then she smiled. Life has a way of taking me down a different path, she said. She spent seven years with Merck, first taking a prostate-related product to urologists in Nebraska, northern Kansas and western Iowa. Her eventual goal was to do a clinical trial with prostate cancer patients, so I needed relationships with urologists. That was my first interaction with marketing. As she worked with marketing people, that peaked her interest in marketing. After seven years with Merck, she took a job with Streck, a small biotech company in Omaha, where she worked in sales and got into product management. In 2016, she moved into a corporate marketing role with Streck and helped link sales and marketing, something she is now passionate about. In that job, she interacted with people from SCORR and met Cinda Orr. She worked with SCORR on what she called go-to-market strategy. It was a smashing success, she said. Five years ago, when Orr offered her a job, LaFerla said yes. The time was right, she added. Discrimination is diminishing SCORR Marketing has 65 employees, including 27 in Kearney. It has an office in Omaha and other offices, mostly remote, spread out across the country in places like Boston, Austin, Cleveland, Raleigh and Pennsylvania. Discrimination is diminishing, LaFerla said. It is still challenging; women are under-represented in leadership roles, but I think its changing. Buntemeyer recalled early days in her career when she was at trade shows with big businesses and global organizations. Orr, ever astute, sometimes suggested bringing in a man to assist at certain scenarios. She simply knew they might respond better, Rowe said. The dynamics at SCORR, including recruitment, retention and the mental state of employees, have been sharply redefined in recent years, largely due to the COVID-19 pandemic. With so many remote offices across the country, We were at a great advantage, Buntemeyer said. Our culture and operations were set up for remote work, so we didnt miss a beat. We lost far less than other companies did. In fact, 2020-21, during the height of the pandemic, was the best year ever for earnings at SCORR in its 20 years. Its two top executives are positioned to ensure that that continues. The two play down their trend-setting roles at SCORR. Instead, like business leaders everywhere, theyre focused on the companys future, especially relating to future generations. I think were still trying to figure out that balance between a career and personal lives. COVID made people rethink that, Buntemeyer said. We want people to be happy, doing work that fulfills them in an environment they feel good about. Ultimately, this is our mission. We want team members who have the same passion for the mission, she said. LaFerla added, Our people are our biggest asset. The more fulfilled they are, the better service they can provide for our clients. If we have happy clients, they will come back. Betsy Kling was faced with a desk full of papers. There were stacks of documents at least 20 to 40 pages per student. And because there were not enough teachers to match the students individual special education needs, the work kept piling up with no end in sight. For Kling, what started as a childhood dream eventually made her reach her breaking point. She was responsible for creating individualized education plans for dozens of students in her Milwaukee charter school. She faced relentless expectations from parents. It all had a draining effect on her mental health. She tried a relaxing holiday in Mexico with friends and going to therapy, but nothing worked. She decided to finish out the 2021-22 school year, but then she was done. I only ever wanted to be a teacher. That was my driving force, said Kling, who taught in Wisconsin charter schools for 10 years. I was getting frustrated with kids for being kids, and that wasnt fair to them, and it wasnt fair to me, so I needed to step away. Kling is just one of many special education teachers who have left the profession, citing burnout. In 48 states, including Wisconsin, there are not enough special education teachers to meet the needs of children in the classrooms, according to the state Department of Public Instruction. Ive never seen shortages like this, said John Eisenberg, the executive director of the National Association of State Directors of Special Education. Were in crisis-level shortages. Within the special education field, teachers are 2 times more likely to leave the profession than general education teachers, according to the DPI. Some reports suggest that up to 50% of new special education teachers leave in the first few years on the job. More than half of school districts across the country have reported teacher shortages. The problem is especially acute among special education teachers. In a survey of school districts in August, DPI reported that special education has the most frequent staff shortages, at over 50%. More demand States face extra pressure to meet the needs of students with disabilities because federal law requires it. Students with disabilities are entitled to special education and related services under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. Their Individualized Education Programs, or IEPs, are based on what support the student needs and can range from one-on-one classroom aides to additional resources to address educational and social development deficiencies. The unavailability of staff to provide services outlined in an individual students IEP does not relieve the district of the responsibility to provide the special education and related services as outlined in the IEP, said DPI spokesperson Chris Bucher. More students are applying for IEPs, which creates extra paperwork for special education teachers, extending their work days beyond school hours, according to Eisenberg and teachers in Wisconsin and other states. Since the COVID-19 pandemic forced children to stay at home for months on end, students lagged in social development. This was especially seen in kindergartners entering school for the first time, and it put an extra strain on teachers. One of the reasons students with disabilities fell behind is because it was harder to meet their needs online, educators say. Platforms like Zoom, Google Classrooms and Google Meet are not always suited for people with hearing or visual impairments. Pandemic effects Some exhausted parents see Individualized Education Programs as a way to fix the effects of the last two years, Kling said. Our only concern is that people are doing that out of a knee jerk reaction because of the pandemic where kids might be behind in their learning or might have exhibited some behavioral issues, but it might not be indicative of a disability, said Eisenberg. Before the pandemic, about 12% to 13% of students across the country were in special education, Eisenberg said. Now, more children are frequently evaluated for consideration. Its not a Band-Aid. Its not a magic wand that (will) automatically fix your child, Kling said. That lack of socialization was very apparent in kids, just the drive that they had for being in a school setting. Data from the Government Accountability Office in October showed shortages of special education teachers in every region of the U.S. were between 8% to 17% higher than five years earlier. Worse, the number of individuals obtaining special education degrees has declined slightly, while the need has risen substantially. In terms of the types of paperwork and tracking and reporting, these shortages existed prior to the pandemic. But I think the pandemic sort of exacerbated an already challenging situation, said Jacqueline Nowicki, a director of the GAOs education, workforce and income security team. For Kling, the stress was too much. She is now in the corporate world. Her workday runs from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. She goes into her job and completes her tasks, shes actually able to take a lunch break, and after eight hours, Kling is done. Shes not sure when, or if, shell go back to teaching. It kind of strips away who you are as a person, Kling said. I think the education system completely has to break and be rebuilt. As Lake Genevas paid parking period is set to begin, several Downtown business owners have made it clear that they are not in favor of a $4 an hour weekend parking rate. The citys paid parking period is set to begin Feb. 1 and will last through Nov. 14. Members of the Lake Geneva City Council have approved a parking rate for 2023 that includes $2 an hour parking Monday through Thursday and $4 an hour parking Friday, Saturday and Sunday to help offset a projected $1.8 million budget deficit. Lake Genevas parking rate previously was $2 an hour daily. Several Downtown business owners have requested that the city hold off on the $4 an hour weekend parking rate to determine other sources of revenue. The city council members also approved to increase the citys parking fine from $20 to $50 to help offset the projected budget shortfall. Parking Operations Manager Seth Elder said paid parking including the $4 an hour weekend parking rate and the $50 fine will go into effect as of this week. Its in place, the $4 an hour parking for Friday, Saturday and Sunday, he said. Elder said, last week, his staff has been busy preparing the parking kiosks for the paid parking period. Were knocking snow off of the solar panels and doing some preventative maintenance, getting everything tuned up, Elder said. We will be out from here until the middle of November. While the parking operations staff was busy preparing the parking kiosks, several Downtown business owners posted signs on their windows last week which read Say no to $4 parking. Call Mayor Klein with a contact number listed for Mayor Charlene Klein. Tyler Dempsey, owner of Wholistic Connections, said he received his sign Jan. 25 and posted it on his businesss window that same day. I would say within the first 10 minutes of receiving it, I put it up there, Dempsey said of the sign. Dempsey said he is concerned that the $4 an hour weekend parking rate will discourage people from shopping in the Downtown area. I think in the short term it will deter the locals from coming down here more than they are already coming down, Dempsey said. In my opinion you will still have people coming in from all these different places this year, but I feel like that will turn them off and next year they will say, Lets so somewhere else because we can park there for free. Dempsey said he has talked with customers who also are disappointed about the $4 an hour weekend parking rate. I do have a good local presence from people around town, Dempsey said. Theyre kind of disgusted by it. I havent had too many tourists come in being that its the winter months. Several other Downtown business owners did not want to comment last week about the signs or the weekend parking rate. Elder said he and his staff have received complaints regarding the the parking rate and the fine increase. Nobody likes paying for parking, and people like parking tickets even less, Elder said. Several Downtown business owners and representatives expressed their concerns about the $4 an hour parking rate during a special city council meeting, Jan. 19. Alastair Cumming, co-owner of Sopra Bistro, called the $4 an hour parking rate obscene and said it will discourage people from visiting Lake Geneva. All I know $4 is obscene. In a small tourist town, its obscene, Cumming said. Ive been in every state in America. Ive been in small, tourist towns west coast, east coast, ski towns Ive never come across $4 an hour, ever. Were naive if we dont recognize the fact that it will impact the amount of people coming into our town. Amy DeGrazio, owner of Edies Boutique and Marigold Boutique, said the city needs to find other sources of revenue besides parking. She said she is concerned that the parking rate will continue to increase beyond $4 an hour in the upcoming years. If parking is your only source that youre looking at what happens when $4 is not enough for the next budget? Do we go to $5? Do we go to $6?, DeGrazio said. Were going to max out, so we need other sources of revenue. Alexandria Binanti, executive director for the Lake Geneva Business Improvement District, said she is concerned that the $4 an hour weekend parking rate will cause less people to shop in the Downtown businesses. If we dont have shoppers, were going to have vacant storefronts, Binanti said. A parking discussion group recently was formed to present alternatives to increasing the parking rate and to develop long-term parking solutions for the City of Lake Geneva. Some of the ideas that the group has proposed includes: Establishing year-round parking Implementing paid parking zones in the Maple Park Historic District Establishing paid parking at Veterans Park Charging residents $10 for parking passes Converting Parking Lot D, located by the Geneva Lake Museum, into a paid parking lot and constructing additional paid parking areas behind the museum Increasing paid parking hours from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. to 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Implementing all six options could generate about $1 million for the City of Lake Geneva, but there would still be about a $753,000 shortfall in the citys budget for 2023. Elder said he is pleased with the options that the parking discussion group has proposed. I think that group came up with some very viable solutions, and we would like to pursue those in whatever way we can, Elder said. Several city officials and business owners have asked that the $4 an hour weekend parking rate be held off until April to give the discussion group more time to present more detailed alternatives to the $4 an hour parking rate. Elder said, at this time, there is no set date for when the group will present more detailed options. Nothing is on the calendar right now, he said. The two candidates vying to become the first new alderman representing the Southwest Side 14th Ward in more than five decades are new to most Chicagoans, but the political power brokers supporting their candidacies are plenty familiar. In a continuation of the fight for control of the ward thats been going on for years, outgoing Ald. Edward Burke has ties to one candidate, Raul Reyes. Mayoral candidate and U.S. Rep. Jesus Chuy Garcia is backing the other, Jeylu Gutierrez. Advertisement Its the latest chapter in the Burke vs. Garcia Southwest Side political face-off, which continues even as Burke opted not to run for a 14th term while facing federal corruption charges alleging he used his aldermanic office to try to coerce developers into hiring his law firm. Burke has pleaded not guilty. Chicagos new ward map Not sure which ward you live in? Type your address into the search box below. Advertisement Source: City of Chicago Reyes, an employee in the city clerks office who has been part of Burkes 14th Ward political organization, received a $50,000 contribution to his campaign from Dan Burke, the outgoing aldermans brother and former state representative who was himself a casualty of the struggle between Garcia and Burke. Dan Burke lost his Springfield seat in 2018 to Aaron Ortiz, who won thanks to strong backing from Garcia, dealing a blow to the Burke family political dynasty. Ortiz then took out Edward Burke for 14th Ward Democratic committeeman in 2020, ending Burkes 52-year hold on that party post. On the other side this year, Garcia and Ortiz have both endorsed Gutierrez, district director for Cook County Commissioner Alma Anaya, whos a close Garcia ally. Gutierrez said shes working to represent the whole ward after Burke lavished attention on the whiter parts of the Southwest Side neighborhoods that have been his traditional political strongholds. As we all know, weve had the same alderman for 53 years, Gutierrez said. In the past years, weve been neglected and forgotten. The services in our communities havent been equally distributed. And a lot of people, of course, are concerned that, whomever it is, the person taking over, make sure that person is going to work for all of us. [ Search to find out what Chicago neighborhood, community area and ward you live in ] A Gutierrez win would be satisfying for Garcia and lengthen his Southwest Side political coattails. While the congressman has made a non-aggression pact with one Irish Southwest Side politician facing federal charges, former state House Speaker Michael Madigan, he has made repeated attempts to chop away at Burkes once unassailable fiefdom. Perhaps boosting Gutierrezs chances, the City Council changed the contours of the ward in the recent citywide remap. Long among the councils most influential members, Edward Burke had a behind-the-scenes hand in controlling the once-per-decade exercise in years past. But this time, Mayor Lori Lightfoot made it clear she disapproved of one map proposal that looked friendly to the politically weakened incumbent. Aldermen in May 2022 instead passed a version in which the 14th Ward jettisoned a piece of the Garfield Ridge neighborhood north and west of Midway Airport where lots of white city workers live and Burke piled up a huge lead over two challengers in the 2019 election. Advertisement Burke, who has reigned as 14th Ward alderman since 1969, declined in November to file petitions to get his name on the ballot for reelection. He could not be reached for comment about the candidates running to succeed him. Jeylu Gutierrez canvasses in the Gage Park neighborhood on Feb. 2, 2023. (E. Jason Wambsgans / Chicago Tribune) Gutierrez and Reyes are now campaigning in a ward thats 88.4% Latino, centered around the Archer Heights, Gage Park and Chicago Lawn neighborhoods east of the airport. Some of those areas are already in the ward, and Gutierrez said its obvious they havent been getting the attention residents deserve. You could drive around and see the difference in Gage Park and Archer Heights, Gutierrez said, noting two neighborhoods that she said were often overlooked by Burke. The paving of the streets, theyre not clean enough. The curbs, the tall branches of the trees never have been trimmed. The type of alleys we have in Brighton Park and Gage Park. Gutierrez also said residents want an alderman with plans to address violence thats getting worse in many parts of the ward. She said she wants to collaborate with police to improve their relationships with residents, and work to give young people community centers and other options to keep them off the streets. We dont have those spaces for kids, so we need to make sure we have those resources in our communities so kids are doing good things, she said. So kids can get involved in sports. Maybe we can have trades for the youngsters in our community centers. Advertisement Traffic at LaSalle and Randolph streets in front of City Hall on Jan. 5, 2022, in Chicago. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune) Reyes could not be reached for comment about his candidacy. His campaign website makes the case to Latino voters and others in the ward that hes the candidate who will best represent their interests. Tired of waiting for basic city services? So is Raul Reyes! reads a post on the site in English and Spanish. Despite the federal corruption charges, Burke won reelection easily in 2019 in a heavily Latino ward against two Latino candidates, one of them backed by Garcia. But Reyes could have a tougher time winning over residents in parts of the ward where his connection to the Burke organization wont carry as much weight, and where he might not be able to count on as many former Burke campaign volunteers to help him get the word out. On his campaign site, Reyes said he has worked to bring city services to the wards residents, and he is committed to continue bringing that dedication to all the residents of every neighborhood in the new 14th Ward. Advertisement Reyes site also includes an issues section that says, We will be concentrating on each issue one-by-one and rolling out the strategy every couple of weeks. As of Friday, the site included headings for crime reduction, education, affordable housing and city services, but lacked any information about Reyes strategies to address those concerns. jebyrne@chicagotribune.com Twitter @_johnbyrne A new tool from the maker of ChatGPT aims to help deal with concerns about how artificial intelligence (or AI) can be used to cheat in school. The tool is called AI Text Classifier. It is designed to identify writing that was produced not by students but by AI programs. The tool was launched by OpenAI, an AI technology company based in San Francisco. The company is the maker of ChatGPT, an AI system that can produce any kind of writing on demand. Many education officials are concerned that ChatGPT could fuel academic dishonesty and harm learning. But, OpenAI warns that its new AI Text Classifier tool like others already available is not perfect. The method for detecting AI-written writing will be wrong sometimes, said Jan Leike of OpenAI. Because of that, he added, it shouldnt be solely relied upon when making decisions." In the U.S. Teenagers and college students were among the millions of people who began experimenting with ChatGPT after it launched on November 30. The tool is a free service on OpenAIs website. Many people have found ways to use it creatively and harmlessly. Still, some educators are concerned about the ease with which it could answer take-home test questions or do other assignments. School districts around the country report they are seeing discussions about ChatGPT change quickly. By the time schools opened for the new year, New York City, Los Angeles, and other big public school districts in the United States began to block its use in classrooms and on school devices. The Seattle Public School district blocked ChatGPT on all school devices in December but then opened it to educators. District spokesman Tim Robinson said teachers wanted to use ChatGPT as a teaching tool. We cant afford to ignore it, Robinson said. The district is also discussing expanding the use of ChatGPT to classrooms to let teachers use it to teach students critical thinking. Students could also use the service as a personal tutor or to help create ideas when working on an assignment, Robinson said. OpenAI wrote about the limitations of its detection tool on a blog recently. But the company added that the tool could help to find disinformation campaigns and misuse of AI to mimic humans in addition to catching plagiarism. The longer a piece of writing, the better the tool is at detecting if an AI system or a human wrote something. AI Text Classifier can examine any piece of writing whether it is a college admissions essay, or a literary study of Ralph Ellisons Invisible Man. The tool will then claim it as either very unlikely, unlikely, unclear if it is, possibly, or likely AI-created. But much like ChatGPT itself, it is not easy to say how AI Text Classifier comes up with a result, Leike said. There is a lot about the tool that is still not well understood. He said, Theres really not much we could say at this point about how the classifier actually works. International opinions Colleges around the world also have begun debating responsible use of AI technology. The Paris Institute of Political Studies, or Sciences Po, one of Frances most famous universities, banned its use recently. Sciences Po warned that anyone found using ChatGPT and other AI tools to produce written or spoken work could be banned from the school and other institutions. To answer criticism, OpenAI said it has been working for several weeks to create new recommendations to help educators. Frances digital economy minister Jean-Noel Barrot recently met in California with OpenAI leaders, including CEO Sam Altman. Barrot a week later told people gathered at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland that he was hopeful about the technology. But the government minister said there are also difficult moral questions that will need to be dealt with. So if youre in the law faculty, there is room for concern because obviously ChatGPT, among other tools, will be able to deliver exams that are relatively impressive, he said. If you are in the economics faculty, then youre fine because ChatGPT will have a hard time finding or delivering something that is expected when you are in a graduate-level economics faculty. He said it will be increasingly important for users to understand how these systems work so they know what biases might exist. Im John Russell. And I'm Ashley Thompson. Matt O'Brien and Jocelyn Gecker reported on this story for the Associated Press. John Rusell adapted it for VOA Learning English. Quiz - ChatGPT Releases New Tool to Identify AI Writing Start the Quiz to find out Start Quiz _________________________________________________________________ Words in This Story detect v. to discover something that was not known or hidden by searching for it solely adv. without anything or anyone else involved district n. an area established by a government for official government business tutor n. a teacher who works with one student plagiarism n. the act of using another person's words or ideas without giving credit to that person : the act of plagiarizing something mimic v. to copy (someone or someone's behavior, speech, or writing) graduate adj. of or relating to a course of studies taken at a college or university after earning a bachelor's degree or other first degree bias n. a systematic error introduced by selecting or encouraging one outcome or answer over others Drilling has begun at a Chinese-operated oil field in Uganda. Officials in the East African nation say they expect oil production to begin by 2025. A spokesman for Uganda's ministry of energy and mineral development, Solomon Muyita, spoke to The Associated Press about the drilling operation. He said the start of drilling at the Kingfisher oil field in the Kikuube district of western Uganda was a big step toward industrial oil production. The China National Offshore Oil Corporation (CNOOC) operates the field. The project has been strongly criticized by environmental groups. Uganda is estimated to have recoverable oil reserves of at least 1.4 billion barrels. Muyita also said construction would begin this year on the 1,443-kilometer East Africa Crude Oil Pipeline. That project is being developed jointly by CNOOC and the French energy company TotalEnergies. The pipeline will run between Uganda and the Indian Ocean port of Tanga in Tanzania. Officials have described the project as the worlds longest heated oil pipeline. It should also be completed by 2025, Muyita said. Climate activists have raised concerns about the effects of the pipeline on local communities and the environment. Last year, Ugandas president was angered by a resolution by the European Parliament that urged the international community to put maximum pressure on Ugandan and Tanzanian officials over the project. The resolution said the pipeline would threaten environments "in protected and sensitive ecosystems, including the shores of Lake Albert. The EU parliament also warned that the pipeline project placed 100,000 people at imminent risk of displacement, without providing effective guarantees of payment, known as compensation. Ugandan officials consider the pipeline important to economic development. They argue that oil wealth can lift millions of people out of poverty. Ugandas National Environmental Management Authority has sought to ease environmental concerns. And Muyita told the AP that thousands of families displaced by the project have already been compensated. Im Bryan Lynn. The Associated Press reported this story. Bryan Lynn adapted the report for VOA Learning English. ____________________________________________________________ Words in This Story drill v. to use a tool or machine to make holes in a hard substance maximum adj. the largest amount possible imminent adj. coming or happening very soon ________________________________________________________________ What do you think of this story? We want to hear from you. We have a new comment system. Here is how it works: Write your comment in the box. Under the box, you can see four images for social media accounts. They are for Disqus, Facebook, Twitter and Google. Click on one image and a box appears. Enter the login for your social media account. Or you may create one on the Disqus system. It is the blue circle with D on it. It is free. Each time you return to comment on the Learning English site, you can use your account and see your comments and replies to them. Our comment policy is here. The actor Ke Huy Quan has traveled an often-changing path on his way to Americas most important movie honors, the Academy Awards. The 51-year-old was nominated for an Oscar for his performance in the 2022 film, Everything Everywhere All at Once. Few Oscar nominees this year have gone as far to reach the Academy Awards as Quan. Born in Vietnam, he and his family fled that country in 1978. They settled in California. As a child, he starred in two of the most popular films of the 1980s. Quan played the characters Short Round in Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom and Data in The Goonies. But after this early success, Quan struggled to find work as an adult. The film industry had few parts for Asian-American actors. The actor went to film school, and later began working behind the camera. He left his dreams of acting in the past, mostly. But Everything Everywhere All at Once changed it all for Quan. The movie leads the 2023 Academy Awards race with 11 Oscar nominations. That includes the award for best picture. Quan is now living the dream he thought he had surrendered. The actor spoke recently with the Associated Press about the experience. When I heard the nomination, I jumped up and I screamed so loud, he said. It just seemed so far-fetched. Especially when I had to step away from acting for so many years, that dream seemed like it was dead. Quan was thankful for the support. But he had been afraid about returning to acting. The last time they saw me up on the screen, I was a little kid. Now, I'm a middle-aged man, he said. Ever since our movie came out, they have shown me nothing but love and kindness, Quan said. This has been a wild and unbelievable ride. I didn't expect any of this. But I do hope that my story inspires them to not give up on their dreams. The Academy Awards will take place in Hollywood, California on March 12. I'm Caty Weaver. The Associated Press wrote this story. Caty Weaver adapted it for VOA Learning English. ________________________________________________________ Words in This Story scream v. to shout or cry out far-fetched adj. to be unlikely to happen, not real or untrue inspire v. to make someone what to do something or to give them the idea that causes them to do or create something screen n. the flat area where movies are shown or that creates to see on a television or computer ___________________________________________________________ What do you think of this story? We want to hear from you. We have a new comment system. Here is how it works: Write your comment in the box. Under the box, you can see four images for social media accounts. They are for Disqus, Facebook, Twitter and Google. Click on one image and a box appears. Enter the login for your social media account. Or you may create one on the Disqus system. It is the blue circle with D on it. It is free. Each time you return to comment on the Learning English site, you can use your account and see your comments and replies to them. Our comment policy is here. An American rights group says Tanzania is seizing animals from herders because it wants to bring more foreign visitors to the northern part of the country. The Oakland Institute, a research group based in Oakland, California, recently reported on the issue. The group said Tanzanian officials are seizing the livestock of ethnic Maasai herders. The goal of the officials is to clear the area for increased tourism in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. The rights group says the government forcibly seized 5,880 cattle and 767 goats and sheep from the Maasai people in November and December. Government officials are demanding that owners pay heavy fines. People who cannot pay have their livestock taken and sold to other people. Anuradha Mittal is the executive director of the Oakland Institute, one group following the issue. She told the Associated Press that: Livestock is central to the Maasai culture and livelihoods. She said: Losing cattle is therefore catastrophic for them. With this new tactic the governments goal is clearly to drive them away from their ancestral lands. The government says the relocation will increase safari tourism and the hunting of lions, elephants and other big animals to pay for environmental and economic development. It says the displacement is voluntary and that the Maasai are semi-nomadic, meaning they are used to moving around a lot. Mittal said the governments statements are not true. She said officials continue to make tourism money more important than everything else, including lives. Rights groups have accused the government of denying the Maasai the use of health services, land, water and salt licksplaces where animals eat minerals. They say this is being done to force out the Maasai. The Ngorongoro Conservation Area is recognized by the United Nations as a UNESCO World Heritage area. The Maasai villages occupy a small part known as the Loliondo commune. In June of last year, rights groups accused the Tanzanian government of using violence against the Maasai people. There was international criticism of the relocation program but a court in the area ruled in favor of the government. The African Commission on Human and Peoples Rights is currently in Tanzania seeking information on the human rights situation. Salangat Marko is a herder in the Loliondo area. He said he is worried about the future of his family. He said: I have cows with no grass or water. Herders intimidated and beatenwhere do we go and what do we feed our children? Im Mario Ritter Jr. Wanjohi Kabukuru reported this story for the Associated Press. Mario Ritter, Jr. adapted it for VOA Learning English. _______________________________________________________________ Words in This Story herder n. a person who keeps farm animals like cows and sheep tourism v. the activity of traveling to other places for pleasure or the industry that serves people who travel for such reasons catastrophic adj. something terrible or disastrous tactic n. a method used toward a goal relocate v. to move or to be moved from a place for a specific reason safari n. a trip to see or hunt animals, especially in Africa intimidated adj. to be threatened with violence or loss _______________________________________________________________ We want to hear from you. We have a new comment system. Here is how it works: Write your comment in the box. Under the box, you can see four images for social media accounts. They are for Disqus, Facebook, Twitter and Google. Click on one image and a box appears. Enter the login for your social media account. Or you may create one on the Disqus system. It is the blue circle with D on it. It is free. Each time you return to comment on the Learning English site, you can use your account and see your comments and replies to them. Our comment policy is here. Mayoral candidates Cook County Commissioner Brandon Johnson, left, and Paul Vallas, right, argue about Chicago Public Schools during a forum at Bethany Union Church Friday. In the center is state Rep. Kam Buckner, left, and Mayor Lori Lightfoot. (John J. Kim / Chicago Tribune) Chicago mayoral hopefuls clashed over the role school shutdowns had in increased violent crime and accused each other of harming public education during another heated candidate forum. Eight of the nine candidates for mayor attended a forum on the Southwest Side that was largely cordial until they were asked about educational issues. Cook County Commissioner Brandon Johnson, who is endorsed by the Chicago Teachers Union, launched an attack on former Chicago Public Schools CEO Paul Vallas, accusing him of harming students by expanding selective enrollment and creating a stratified system. Advertisement Youre asking Chicagoans to apply for something thats free, Johnson said. Thats a failure. In an emotional rebuttal, Vallas accused Johnson and the CTU of contributing to high crime in recent years due to work stoppages and remote learning. Mayor Lori Lightfoot has similarly attributed an increase in carjackings by youth on school shutdowns. Advertisement Shutting down the schools for 15 months had devastating consequences, Vallas said. And we are going to be paying the price for the next generation. So do not lecture me on schools. Johnson defended the unions advocacy for remote learning and pandemic safety measures, saying, Black and brown families were dying. We were trying to save lives, and if saving lives from a 100-year pandemic is an inconvenience to you, then guess what, Paul, you dont deserve to be mayor, Johnson said. A mayoral candidates town hall meeting is held at Bethany Union Church Friday in Chicago. (John J. Kim / Chicago Tribune) Lightfoot then mocked Vallas as someone pretending to be the great savior of this city and noted that there were more murders in Chicago when he was budget director in the early 1990s than there are now. Vallas later claimed that his policies as budget director led to more police officers being hired and a major drop in violent crime. Activist JaMal Green followed the heated exchange with a quip: Aint you all tired of all those politicians fighting over whos the best liar in the room? Earlier in the forum, Lightfoot defended her decision to oppose a bill passed by state legislators that creates a 21-member elected school board. Lightfoot said she still supports the idea of an elected board but raised issues with the one thats scheduled to govern Chicago schools by 2027. My mother served on an elected school board for most of my years in junior high school through high school, but the devil always is in the details, Lightfoot said. And the challenge with the legislation that was passed is it doesnt account for very basic, fundamental things. Lightfoot said the 21-member board is too large and it doesnt account for the financial entanglements between the city and CPS. Advertisement They want to cut off our ability to influence the governance of the school, but they want you to continue paying for it nonetheless, Lightfoot said. Other candidates largely focused on the issues without attacking one another. State Rep. Kambium Kam Buckner said he would negotiate with CTU on its next contract from day one to avoid further turmoil for the schools. When elephants fight, the grass gets trampled, Buckner said. Mayoral candidates Cook County Commissioner Brandon Johnson, from left, U.S. Rep. Jesus "Chuy" Garcia, state Rep. Kam Buckner, Mayor Lori Lightfoot, Paul Vallas, Ald. Roderick Sawyer, 6th, Ja'Mal Green and Ald. Sophia King, 4th, take their seats for a town hall at Bethany Union Church Friday. A ninth candidate, Willie Wilson, was not present. (John J. Kim / Chicago Tribune) Green said CPS should switch from an enrollment-based funding formula to needs-based. Ald. Roderick Sawyer said that city leaders should be talking about what to do with underutilized schools now, as tough decisions will need to be made about potentially closing buildings once the 2025 moratorium on CPS school closures expires. U.S. Rep. Jesus Chuy Garcia said he supports expanding the Grow Your Own program that recruits new teachers. And Ald. Sophia King said she supports incentives to lure teachers to CPS, such as helping pay for their mortgages. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken has postponed a planned weekend diplomatic trip to China. The decision followed the discovery of a Chinese balloon flying over sensitive areas in the United States Thursday. The U.S. described the balloon as a surveillance vehicle. But a Chinese official said it was a weather research satellite that had gone off course. The decision came just hours before Blinken was to leave for China. A U.S. official told the Associated Press that Blinken and President Joe Biden decided that it was best not to make the trip at this time. Blinkens meetings with senior Chinese officials had been considered a way to find common ground on a number of issues. Those issues could include Taiwan, human rights, Chinas claims in the South China Sea, North Korea, Russias war in Ukraine, trade policy and climate change. The meetings were to begin on Sunday and go through Monday. Balloon flying over U.S. western area On Thursday, U.S. military officials said the Chinese balloon was flying over the state of Montana. The western state is home to 150 intercontinental ballistic missile silos at Malmstrom Air Force Base. Chase Doak lives in Billings, Montana. He told Reuters that, at first, he thought the balloon was a star. "But I thought that was kind of crazy because it was broad daylight and when I looked at it, it was just too big to be a star," he said. A senior defense official said the U.S. prepared fighter jets to shoot down the balloon if ordered. But the U.S. chose not to act since debris from the large balloon could have put people at risk. The official said the spy balloon was meant to fly over the Montana missile fields. The U.S. believes that the flyover would have limited intelligence value. The official said China could still get the information using other technologies, such as spy satellites. Brigadier General Patrick Ryder is a spokesman for the U.S. Defense Department. He told reporters Thursday that the balloon was "traveling at an altitude well above commercial air traffic and does not present a military or physical threat to people on the ground." However, the discovery of the balloon alarmed both government officials and lawmakers. Some members of the U.S. Congress urged the Biden administration to take stronger measures against China. In the past, China had spoken out against surveillance attempts by the U.S. and others over areas it considers to be its territory. In a statement on Friday, the Chinese foreign ministry said that the balloon was a civilian airship used mainly for weather research. The ministry said the airship has limited self-steering capabilities and went far from its planned course because of winds. Im Bryan Lynn. Hai Do adapted this story for VOA Learning English from Associated Press and Reuters reports. _______________________________________________________________ Words in This Story surveillance n. the act of carefully watching someone or something to gain information silos v. an underground structure used for storing missiles broad daylight idiom clear for everyone to see; during the brightest part of the day debris n. the wreckage of something that has been destroyed altitude n. the distance from the ground to something that is high in the sky commercial n. related to business; part of a business service aimed at making a profit steer v. to control the direct that something goes in _______________________________________________________________ We want to hear from you. We have a new comment system. Here is how it works: Write your comment in the box. Under the box, you can see four images for social media accounts. They are for Disqus, Facebook, Twitter and Google. Click on one image and a box appears. Enter the login for your social media account. Or you may create one on the Disqus system. It is the blue circle with D on it. It is free. Each time you return to comment on the Learning English site, you can use your account and see your comments and replies to them. Our comment policy is here. A legislative proposal to change how Nebraska's six community colleges are funded ran into stiff opposition from board members, administrators and students Thursday. Sen. Dave Murman's plan (LB783) would eliminate the ability of community colleges to levy property taxes beginning in 2026-27, and replace that funding with state appropriations. According to the bill, the community colleges would receive an amount 3.5% greater than their 2025 property tax levy, with that amount set to increase by 3.5% annually thereafter. Murman and several other members of the Legislature's Revenue Committee sponsored the bill on behalf of Gov. Jim Pillen, who proposed the measure as part of a package of bills designed to address what he described as an inequitable property tax system. "This bill gives the responsibility to the state, creating the opportunity to appropriately invest in and strengthen our community colleges and fund them fully," Pillen told the committee. LB783 was supported by the Nebraska Farm Bureau, Nebraska Cattlemen and Americans for Prosperity, who all said ending community college's property tax levy authority would immediately benefit property taxpayers. Nebraskans paid more than $250 million in property taxes to support community colleges in 2021, according to the Platte Institute. Michael Lucci, a senior policy adviser at the conservative-leaning think tank, said removing the fourth-highest line item on a taxpayer's annual bill could save them between 5-6% in taxes paid while also simplifying the system overall. Repealing the community college property tax would move Nebraska from having the seventh-highest property taxes in the country to ninth or 10th, according to the Tax Foundation, Lucci told the committee. But community college leaders and students said they worried that eliminating the ability to levy property taxes would erode local control over their institutions and make them less responsive to the needs of students, industry partners and their communities. Randy Schmailzl, president of Metro Community College in Omaha, said previous legislatures had intended community colleges' budgets to be funded through 40% property taxes, 40% state aid and 20% student tuition. In reality, however, Metro's funding breakdown was closer to 51% property taxes, 28% state aid, and 21% tuition, he said, adding that the property tax levy allowed Metro to continue programs that served students, nearly all of whom are from the college's service area. "There's nothing that says you have to use your property tax levy if the state is fulfilling its obligation," Schmailzl said. Southeast Community College, which serves a 15-county area and has campuses in Lincoln, Beatrice and Milford, has used a capital improvement fund paid for through property taxes to revitalize its facilities and address the region's workforce needs, several board members told the committee. Neal Stenberg, the chair of the SCC Board of Governors, said eliminating the property tax levy would "severely hinder" the college's ability to train health care workers, welders, diesel technicians and information technicians. While the current Legislature could promise to fund the full amount to community colleges, Stenberg said he was skeptical that would be the case in the future. "The legislatures that come after you are not bound by that," he said. "There will be no shortage of financial crises to deal with in the future." Mid-Plains Community College President Ryan Purdy said state lawmakers have pledged more state funding before, but have had to reverse those decisions to address other needs. Without a sustainable revenue source, Purdy said Mid-Plains could be forced to close satellite locations that serve rural communities across a wide swath of the state, or hike tuition to a rate that's unattractive to students. Murman said the intention of the bill was not to limit funding to community colleges or to force them to make cuts. "I don't want to do anything to risk the funding of community colleges," he said, "but it's very important also that we make our tax system more fair to taxpayers of the state." The committee did not take any action on the bill Thursday. Top Journal Star photos for January 2023 A North Liberty man was sentenced last week to 25 years in federal prison for child pornography charges involving a minor he met on Snapchat and requested nude images and videos from her. Jacob John Preuschl, 28, was convicted of production of child pornography and transfer of obscene material to minors. Law enforcement identified him after the parent of an underage victim called the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children's tip line after finding sexually explicit content between her daughter and Preuschl on a cellphone. The center referred the case to law enforcement in Nashville, Tennessee, which identified Preuschl and referred the case to Iowa authorities. Preuschl met the victim on Snapchat and communicated with her for about four months and requested nude images and videos, prosecutors said. He also sent graphic images of himself to the girl. After seizing his cellphone, law enforcement discovered Preuschl had communicated with several other minors on Snapchat and had acquired child pornography through the Telegram computer application. The sentencing judge additionally ordered Preuschl to pay a $10,000 special assessment under the Justice for Victims of Trafficking Act and $3,000 special assessment under the Amy, Vicky and Andy Child Pornography Victim Assistance Act, according to prosecutors. Preuschl also will serve seven years of supervised release following his prison term. The Joint Forensic Analysis Cyber Team and the Nashville Police Department investigated the case. It was prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Southern District of Iowa as part of the U.S. Department of Justice's "Project Safe Childhood" initiative. Anyone having knowledge of a child being sexually abused is encouraged to call the Iowa Sexual Abuse Hotline at 1-800-284-7821. Counties with the most emergency shelters in Iowa Counties with the most emergency shelters in Iowa #50. Hardin County #49. Des Moines County #48. Calhoun County #47. Mills County #46. Wayne County #45. Chickasaw County #44. Tama County #43. Louisa County #42. Boone County #41. Cedar County #40. Wapello County #39. Sioux County #38. Washington County #37. Buchanan County #36. Cerro Gordo County #35. Audubon County #34. Hancock County #33. Lucas County #32. Floyd County #31. Poweshiek County #30. Jones County #29. Fayette County #28. Delaware County #27. Jackson County #26. Keokuk County #25. Shelby County #24. Monroe County #23. Van Buren County #22. Pocahontas County #21. Clinton County #20. Mitchell County #19. Butler County #18. Cherokee County #17. Appanoose County #16. Winnebago County #15. Mahaska County #14. Greene County #13. Franklin County #12. Clayton County #11. Osceola County #10. Bremer County #9. Lyon County #8. Palo Alto County #7. Worth County #6. Monona County #5. Allamakee County #4. Ida County #3. Adams County #2. Winneshiek County #1. Howard County Even if Nebraska spends $350 million to replace the aging Nebraska State Penitentiary, the state will need to add another 1,500 beds to its corrections system over the next decade to keep up with projected inmate growth. Thats the conclusion of a long-awaited prison facilities master plan that was recently completed by the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services. The report, prepared by three outside consulting firms, calls replacing the penitentiary the departments top construction priority for the next five years. It says the facility should be built in the Omaha or Lincoln area to take advantage of the robust community supports in those metropolitan areas. But it suggested the 1,512-bed facility should also be built with the capacity to be expanded to 2,040 or 3,000 beds to accommodate future inmate growth between now and 2033. The study does not put a price tag on such an expansion or the myriad other facility improvements it recommends. But it surely would cost taxpayers hundreds of millions of dollars. In the end, the reports conclusion is no surprise. Projections since 2020 have shown that the states inmate population, currently at roughly 5,500, is set to grow another 1,300 inmates by 2030. Given such projections, lawmakers for years have pushed the corrections department for a long-range study of the states facilities needs. During a hearing before the Legislature Wednesday, state Sen. Terrell McKinney spoke on an omnibus prison bill he introduced that would bar the state from building any new facilities until it reduces the trajectory of its inmate population. He said Nebraska is currently building a prison industrial complex with its fast-rising incarceration rate. A World-Herald analysis last year found Nebraskas inmate population over the past decade has been the nations fastest growing. We keep throwing money at prisons just to say we are not soft on crime, McKinney said. Diane Sabatka-Rine, the states interim corrections director, testified the state absolutely needs to follow through with replacing the penitentiary, which in recent years has been beset with problems due to aging infrastructure. Nebraskas need for a new penitentiary is inevitable, Sabatka-Rine said. Former Gov. Pete Ricketts sought for two years to build a new 1,512-bed prison, first as a standalone new facility, then later as a replacement for the penitentiary. The Legislature set aside money for the facility last year but has yet to allow it to be spent. The states corrections director last year said the state had already made contact with landowners in Omaha, Lincoln and Fremont on a possible site for the facility. New Gov. Jim Pillen has requested $350 million to fund the facility, which he said is needed to both house inmates and provide more space for the programs to help inmates change their lives. The new facility study backs the need for the new penitentiary, calling it the most urgent and immediate need in the system. It recommended building the 1,512-bed facility as the top priority of the first five years of the master plan. It also recommends building the facility such that it could later be expanded to as many as 3,000 beds. That would provide the flexibility to accommodate any needs during the second five-year phase of the plan. If this projection accurately predicts the pace of increase, an additional 1,500 beds will be needed during Phase 2, the report says. That second phase also calls for increasing the capacity of beds in the Omaha area that help inmates re-enter society upon release. The report makes recommendations on expansion of educational, vocational and recreational space throughout the entire corrections system, which currently includes nine facilities in Lincoln, Omaha, Tecumseh, York and McCook. The current penitentiary would not be decommissioned until at least 11 years from now. The report says the facility could be demolished, or parts of it could be modernized into a more open campus for lower custody inmates. Nebraska's 10 state prisons from least to most crowded Two former Lincoln Police recruits were dismissed from the department's police academy in November after they admitted to cheating on an exam, according to public records and police officials. Dalton Bell and Ethan Bruha, who were among 19 recruits to join the department in July 2022, were dismissed Nov. 9 for misconduct and ethics violations, according to change-in-status forms LPD filed with the Nebraska Law Enforcement Training Center. At a Citizen Police Advisory Board meeting last week, Internal Affairs Sgt. Derek Dittman said two recruits who he did not identify by name viewed a physical copy of an upcoming exam before taking it. Five additional recruits who "observed the cheating in some form" failed to notify academy instructors or supervisors, Dittman said. Investigators sustained complaints of academic dishonesty against those seven recruits after Police Chief Teresa Ewins ordered an internal investigation into the conduct of more than half of the academy class, Dittman told board members last week. Four recruits from the class were exonerated by investigators, Dittman said. The complaint against another recruit was not sustained, but the recruit wasn't explicitly exonerated. In an email, Assistant Police Chief Michon Morrow declined to detail the events that led to the two recruits' dismissal, but clarified that the five recruits who witnessed the cheating only saw "a portion of the event which didnt allow them to form a conclusion" of what was happening. Morrow said the five recruits weren't disciplined for failing to come forward, but that department officials used the investigation into the academy class as a learning experience for each recruit. "We would expect a report to a supervisor in events where something seems off or not right," she said. Bell and Bruha were in the class that started the police academy last July with an expected graduation date in December. Sixteen recruits ultimately graduated from the academy. In a phone interview, Bell declined to discuss the details of he and Bruha's academic dishonesty but said he left the academy without bitterness toward the police department. "All the police officers that did graduate, I'm very, very proud of," he said. "I hope nothing but the best in their careers. "I have nothing negative to say to LPD," he added. "I have nothing but positive things to say, even in regards to the (academic dishonesty) situation. I'm very, very proud of what I did at LPD. I learned a lot." He said he was grateful for his time in the academy and that he intends to pursue a career in law enforcement elsewhere in Nebraska. Bruha did not respond to messages seeking comment. Reporter Lori Pilger contributed to this story. Top Journal Star photos for January 2023 Two environmental science teachers and their students at Elgin High School are overseeing a monthlong series of webinars they say will help beat cabin fever, impart knowledge and, in some cases, maybe even offer a little sunshine along with the topic at hand. And all the webinars are free for anyone to attend, said teacher Brittney Mallen. Advertisement The webinars are, collectively, part of National Biodiversity Teach-In, a virtual event produced by Elgin High School environmental science teachers and students for the past 10 years. This year, we will have seven speakers, every Friday in February, said EHS senior Ashka Patel. The teach-in will include a day where all of our presenters are women in order to honor the International Day of Women and Girls in Science. Advertisement Patel is working on publicity for the teach-in. The teachers said that the 90 environmental sciences students at EHS are involved in pretty much every aspect of the event. Mallen said the students reached out to scientists, organizations and people they think might make for good guests. A rotating group of 15 students heads over to the School District U-46 administration building on the February Fridays to be the crew overseeing the webcasts. In the 10 years, we have had 110,000 participants and over 27 countries have been part of this project, Patel said. Teacher Brigid Trimble said that has included students viewing together in a classroom at a university in Greece and even someone from Iran. The person from Iran had been blocked by the government, so the Elgin High students and Tony Romero, an IT specialist for the district, helped them navigate through a firewall, Trimble said. The array of presenters this year will come from as far away as India, the teachers said. The topics covered will include Arctic plants, environmental law, polar bears, wolves, elephants, snow leopards, amphibians, sharks, whales and bats. Mallen said EHS alum Autumn McGowan, who has a fellowship with the Michigan chapter of The Nature Conservancy, will discuss reefs of the Great Lakes on Feb. 17. Among those presenting on all-woman Friday, Feb. 10, will be Jillian Morris, a marine biologist and a shark conservationist; Bonnie Hamilton, who studies contaminants in the Arctic; Thea Bechshoft, who studies polar bear ecology; and Deanna Leonard, who focuses on whales. Advertisement Closing out the teach-in on Feb. 24 will be Rebbeca Shaw, chief scientist and senior vice president at the World Wildlife Fund. Jordan Gray, from the Turtle Survival Alliance in South Carolina, kicked off the series Feb. 3, the teachers said. Hes been a popular speaker, and he usually has turtles with him, Trimble said. More information and registration to participate is available at www.nationalbiodiversityteachin.com/. The webinars will also be livestreamed on U-46s Science and Planetarium YouTube channel, www.youtube.com/channel/UCzR8S6GHTtV3ipRljnuPsPA; on Facebook, @natbioteachin; TikTok, @natbioteachin; and Instagram, @natbioteachin. Mike Danahey is a freelancer. A diverse group of community leaders that includes world-renowned urban planners and academics has come together to lead an ambitious development project on Madisons Far East Side. Bt Farms Foundations vision is to transform 222 acres of local land into an agri-community, a community that integrates agriculture into a residential neighborhood. Becky Steinhoff, former executive director of the Goodman Community Center, first approached New York-based architect Ifeoma Ebo about the possibility of leading an agriculture development that empowered Black farmers in 2021. For months, the two discussed possibilities, before establishing the rest of the team and launching the projects development last summer. For Ebo, Bt Farms is a natural extension of the work that shes been doing for the past 20 years. Ebo has led development projects all over the world that live at the intersection of architecture, urban spaces and equity. She spent five years working in South Africa, where she oversaw the development of multiple community centers dedicated to health and wellness. She is the founder of Creative Urban Alchemy, a design and planning consulting agency, and has led development initiatives funded by the United Nations and New York Citys mayors office. The thread that I think connects all of the work that Ive been involved in is that Ive really been passionate about the extent to which design and planning work improves the quality of life for the people who will be living there, she said. So, why Madison? Anthony Gray, the real estate developer for the project, is a local attorney and entrepreneur who sits on the Dane County Board. He said he views Bt Farms as an innovative way to address some of the citys long-standing racial inequities. It wasnt an opportunity that I could pass up, he said. Madison has the resources to make comfortable and productive lives for all of us, but some of us have been left out of that prosperity. Ive decided that I am going to dedicate myself to supporting and engaging projects that help close that gap. Catalyst for change Steinhoff also was drawn to the projects potential to be a catalyst for social change within Madison. The value of what theyre trying to create is aligned with everything thats important to me, she said. Im well aware of the desperate need for affordable housing and homeownership for the first-time home buyers, particularly for people of color, and I was super excited about the commitment to green energy. The leaders behind the project are optimistic that this model will empower BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, people of color) farmers and residents, provide affordable housing and offer valuable educational programming for the citys youth. Shellie Meier, the projects agriculture and urban ag developer, comes from a long line of Black farmers and was born and raised in Madison. With this project, Meier said she is looking forward to educating more people about the legacy of Black farmers in Wisconsin and leading youth programming related to agriculture. We dont often see Black farmers and we often dont see the culture that comes along with it, she said. Im looking forward to this project where Im able to grow and teach others my knowledge. As part of the research process, Ebo said that the project team has researched the history of the site significantly, especially regarding the histories of BIPOC farmers and communities. Weve actually spent the last six months just researching the site itself and really trying to understand it below and above ground, Ebo said. There are just some really interesting histories of agriculture being established by Black people as places of refuge and places of empowerment and so theres this legacy there already. Collaborative process The project team also includes local geographer Mrill Ingram, local ecologist Stephen Glass, and Detroit-based landscape architect Ujijji Williams, along with many others. Despite the distance between team members, the process has remained highly collaborative, Gray said. I learn something new at every one of our development meetings, Gray said. Thats how I judge a meeting. Do you leave knowing something you didnt know when you came in? So far, thats been the case with this world-class team. Its lovely because we get to see each others worlds, Meier said about working with the team members from outside Wisconsin. I get to help them see a part of our Wisconsin culture, and we get to learn their style of working as well. While the project is still in its early stages, the team is looking forward to bringing in community members to give their input on the design and planning process. A key priority for the team is engaging more BIPOC community members. So far, the communitys response to their project has been overwhelmingly positive, Ebo said. People are excited about this project. Its like theyve been waiting for something like this for the longest time, and so Im excited to bring this to folks, Ebo said. It is really about collectively working to realize the dreams of a community. The Dane County Sheriffs detective who shot and killed a 21-year-old man in the village of Oregon in October will not face any criminal charges, Dane County District Attorney Ismael Ozanne said Friday. Detective Clint Seltzner shot Jose C. Jimenez on Oct. 23 after Jimenez refused several commands to lower a handgun, Ozanne said in a statement Friday. Seltzner, a 20-year law enforcement veteran, was responding to a report that Jimenez had threatened a woman with a gun inside a house earlier in the day, Ozanne said. Confronted outside a barn where Jimenez was believed to be staying, the deputy saw what he believed was a gold and silver colored cylinder or tubular object in Mr. Jimenezs right hand which he believed was a gun, Ozanne said. The deputy then saw the sunlight flickering off the handguns barrel as Mr. Jimenez raised the gun upwards in the direction of the deputy, Ozanne wrote. The deputy fired his handgun in the direction of Mr. Jimenez for what he believed was four or five times. After Jimenez fell to the ground, the deputy maintained distance because he could not see where the handgun was, Ozanne said. Responding officers provided medical assistance, but Jimenez was pronounced dead at the scene. A loaded .22 caliber Ruger MK II was found near his body, Ozanne said. The Dane County Sheriffs Office will conduct its own review of the incident. Seltzner will remain on leave throughout the process. Jimenez was first identified to the Wisconsin State Journal by friend Josh McDowell, who said Jimenez was a suspect in an armed robbery four days earlier, just a few blocks away from where Jimenez was found and shot. Oregon Police Chief Jennifer Pagenkopf did not confirm the allegations. Jimenezs coworkers at Dorn True Value Hardware on Richards Road in Oregon described him as someone who kept to himself but was a nice person to talk to. He was your typical guy, said Billie Peterson, a former co-worker with whom Jimenez would joke around. Remembering the 1996 fire that destroyed Madison's Hotel Washington Hotel Washington before the fire Club de Wash before the fire Hotel Washington fire Hotel Washington fire Hotel Washington fire Hotel Washington fire Hotel Washington in ruins People watch Hotel Washington blaze Hotel Washington fire Hotel Washington fire Fighting the fire Extinguishing hot spot Friends embrace Freezing water Hotel Washington fire Barber's Closet fire damage Hotel Washington flowers Gutted hotel with flag Hotel Washington vigil Hotel Washington service Fire investigators Salvaging what they can Washington Hotel steps State Journal front page Feb. 19, 1996 State Journal coverage Feb. 19, 1996 State Journal coverage Feb. 19, 1996 Trumpf Hotel, 1906 Hotel Washington in 1935 TWIN FALLS Death by Chocolate is back after the pandemic. The Twin Falls Rotary Club held its signature Death by Chocolate event Thursday evening at the Canyon Crest Dining and Event Center. Nearly two dozen vendors competed in categories ranging from cakes, cookies and candies. A band also played while people browsed a silent auction. The 16th annual event grossed more than $41,000, making it the most successful Death by Chocolate to date, event organizer Jill Skeem said. All the proceeds from the fundraiser will go to rebuild the restrooms at Frontier Park on the College of Southern Idaho campus in Twin Falls. Who won the Death by Chocolate categories? Winners in the following categories by the judges are as follows: Brownies Twin Falls Senior Center Twin Falls High School Redhawk Gastropub Cake Cactus Petes Casino Resort CSI Culinary Koto Brewing Co. Candy Sweet Touches Frederickson's Fine Candies Alice's Sweets Cookies Hilton Garden Inn Pick Me Up 4 Roots Unique Dessert St. Luke's Magic Valley Shari's Cafe TLC- Teri's Legendary Cravings The People's Choice winners are as follows: Brownies Carla's Creations Twin Falls High School Twin Falls Senior Center Cake Cactus Petes Casino Resort Koto Brewing Co. CSI Culinary Candy Frederickson's Fine Candies Alice's Sweets Sweet Touches Cookie Canyon Ridge High School Pick Me Up Hilton Garden Inn Unique Dessert TLC - Teri's Legendary Cravings St. Luke's Magic Valley Canyon Crest Event Center High School Division: Twin Falls High School Canyon Ridge High school Best In Show: St. Luke's Magic Valley PHOTOS: Death by Chocolate returns Death by Chocolate draws a crowd Death by Chocolate draws a crowd Death by Chocolate draws a crowd Death by Chocolate draws a crowd Death by Chocolate draws a crowd Death by Chocolate draws a crowd Death by Chocolate TWIN FALLS Calling all artists. Its time for artists young and old to enter the Art & Soul of the Magic Valley, the annual art contest that takes place each year, featuring hundreds of pieces of artwork that are put to a public vote as they are displayed in businesses and public spaces of Twin Falls. And this year there is an added incentive to enter, as total prize money has increased to $55,000, compared with $44,000 in last years event. The grand prize winner will pocket $15,000, second place $6,000, third place $3,000 and fourth place $1,500. Additionally, prize money will be awarded to the best in show, and second, third and fourth places in each category that has a minimum of 10 entries. Previously, only the best-in-show included prize money. Anonymous donors have made the extra cash awards possible, said Melissa Crane, executive director of the Magic Valley Arts Council, which hosts the event. We are excited about it, Crane said. The deadline to enter is April 2. Artists can register at the events website, magicvalleyartandsoul.com, and business owners wanting to host artwork can register at the same website. We have a new website to get things going, Crane said. Adult artists have 19 categories to choose from ceramic, woodwork, acrylic and water media are a few of the options. The categories can seem broad, considering all the incredible things an artist can create with a particular medium, Crane said. That lends itself to an artists interpretation of how that work would fit into that category, she said. The uncategorized option is available when an artist feels their creation doesnt fit neatly into the other categories, Crane said. Art & Soul, in its 13th year, will take place from June 9 to July 1, and the public is encouraged to view the artwork and vote on their favorites. Its the biggest show based on this format in the Northwest. More than 198 adult artists participated in the event last year, coming from 38 Idaho cities and 16 states and from Mongolia. Seventy children took part in the youth contest. The magic behind Art & Soul, Crane said, is that its an arts appreciation endeavor under the guise of an arts contest, she said. Crane said the show offers a way for the public to fall in love with new styles, new mediums and new artists. In addition, artists are required to provide a statement about their work, which can give art lovers additional insight. The storytelling can give you a better understanding of each piece, she explained. UPDATE: At 2:50 p.m. on Saturday, multiple media outlets reported the balloon was shot down off the coast of South Carolina near Myrtle Beach. It was confirmed by U.S. officials minutes later. *** Residents in Marion and across North Carolina took to social media to say they spotted the now infamous Chinese spy balloon Saturday morning as the objected moved east in the skies above state. Carl Landrum of Marion posted a video to Facebook, prompting comments. We have become the softest country in the world, said Lucas Davis. China will have lots of our information when we go to war with them, said Revonda West. There were more sightings as the balloon moved east. Chinese spy balloon over Charlotte, resident Matt Comer posted on Twitter, with a picture of the craft in the sky above East Charlotte. Small white dot. Bad photo from out my second floor window. All I had was my phone. Many people hopped online to post pictures, including WCNC-TV weatherman Brad Panovich. He tweeted he saw it outside his South Charlotte backyard around 9:45 a.m. The White House briefed governors on the surveillance balloon ahead of its arrival over the Charlotte area, a White House official told McClatchy. The North American Aerospace Defense Command was closely monitoring the surveillance balloon, Air Force Brigadier General Pat Ryder said at a news conference on Friday. It was first spotted this week over the skies of Montana. A NOAA trajectory map on Friday predicted the balloon would head from the central U.S. to above the North Carolina mountains and then just north of Charlotte, according to McClatchy. The balloon would then travel across southeastern North Carolina to the ocean, the map showed. At 1:45 p.m. Saturday, ground stops were issued for airports in Wilmington, Charleston and Myrtle Beach. The money Griffith collects from its utility bills is essential to paying the salaries of the Griffith Town Council. As such, a council members base pay is funded 25% from water bills and 25% from sewer bills, with an additional 50% from general services (fire protection, trash collection), according to the 2023 Griffith Salary Ordinance. Advertisement The salary of the town council president, that being Councilman Rick Ryfa, R-3rd again this year, is funded 50% from both the water and sewer funds, with the rest coming from the towns general fund. Ryfa is set to earn $55,698 as council president in 2023, according to the salary ordinance. Like other town employees, hes receiving a 4% raise, a $2,142 bump from his 2022 salary of $53,556. Police officers are receiving 8% raises in 2023. Advertisement As council president, Ryfa, who has worked as a de facto town manager since January 2020, receives an extra $1,520 bi-weekly ($39,520 per year) in addition to the $560 bi-weekly pay he receives as a councilman. In becoming council president in 2020, Ryfa collected a $35,000 raise by unanimous consent, earning a $47,516 salary that year. At the time, town officials explained the arrangement as a cost-saving move so the town wouldnt have to staff a town managers office, which they estimated the cost being between $200,000 and $300,000, and Ryfa assumed administrative leadership of Griffith town government. Comparing the 2022 and 2023 salary ordinances, as provided by Clerk-Treasurer Gina Smith, all five council members are set for a $561 raise in 2023 to bring their base salaries up to $14,581 a year. Comparatively, Highlands town council president had an $18,819 salary in 2022, while the other members were paid $17,871. Griffith raising water rate by 15% Now, the higher cost to bring fresh water to Griffith is triggering a net 15% increase in the town utility bills beginning in February, and the cost will keep going up for the next seven years. The town delivered the fiscally charged news in a letter included with last months utility bill, informing of a water rate hike in response to what Hammond is charging Griffith and other communities that rely on its pipeline to Lake Michigan. Most residential water meters in Griffith are either 5/8th inch or 3/4th inch, which now come with a minimum monthly charge of $11.56. Consumption is $4.35 for the first 5,000 gallons, according to the towns figures. The rates for the other components of the utility bill wastewater, stormwater (sewer), fire protection and trash disposal will hold steady for 2023. To slightly offset the rate hike, there is a minor 1.12% reduction due to the elimination of the states Utility Receipts Tax, having been repealed by the Indiana General Assembly. Advertisement The cost to purchase water from Hammond Water Works is currently 90% higher than before the increases, the town wrote to residents. By the year 2030, the increase from Hammond Water Works will be over 175% higher than before the increases. Town officials said that the Griffith Water Utility has been able to absorb part of the increases from Hammond, but are now forced to pass along the increase to keep the water utility solvent. They said the last water rate increase was in 2013. Jim Masters is a freelance reporter for the Post-Tribune. Some trepidation surrounded a decision by the Missoula County commissioners Thursday to create a Housing Innovations Fund. According to county Housing Specialist Garrick Harmel, the $750,000 fund would be used to create housing opportunities targeted at 200% Area Median Income earners and below. The seed funding for the program comes from lot sales at the Missoula Development Park, not taxpayer dollars. A collection of public commenters expressed concerns to the commissioners during their Thursday public meeting, and some asked the county to postpone the creation of the fund. Nonetheless, the commissioners unanimously voted in favor of the initiative. I just want to make sure its not a handout, said public commenter David Olson. He was concerned about Missoula County residents living beyond their means as a result of the fund, and he suggested lower-income earners need job skills rather than housing. Another public commenter, Brandi Atanasoff, wanted to know about the longevity of the fund. How would it be replenished, she asked. The commissioners said they have no specific plans yet to refill the fund, although options like a revolving loan fund are possibilities. Were looking at this as a start, said Commissioner Josh Slotnick. We are keenly aware that its finite and we will do our darnedest to get the biggest return on investment. Kevin Davis, host of the Reserve Street Public Working Group, urged the county to postpone its decision on the fund until more details are hammered out. I think we need to hold off until we actually see where this funding would go, how it would be used, what partners would be utilized, said Davis. But Jordan Fields, who previously used the Montana Emergency Rental Assistance Program, spoke in favor of the Housing Innovations Fund. I think that opportunity should be available to as many people as possible, Fields said. The commissioners recognized the preliminary nature of the fund on Thursday but still supported its creation. At this point what were doing is creating this fund, Slotnick stressed. Land acquisition, down payment assistance, preservation of existing affordable housing, infrastructure support and support for new development are some of the proposed ways the fund could be deployed. Its not lost on us the importance of having a clear idea programming-wise what these dollars will go toward, noted Commissioner Dave Strohmaier. We dont have all the details programmatically figured out. Strohmaier also pointed out the need for transparency as the program rolls out, and he said, I think we can rise to the occasion. Commissioner Juanita Vero also said she heard the concerns from the public commenters, but she nonetheless liked the opportunity presented by county staff on Thursday. I think part of this process is to sharpen these tools and to explore what is going to work with this amount of money, she said. This is our opportunity to give it a shot and I know the community is going to hold us accountable. The public can weigh in on the Housing Innovations Fund on the Missoula County Voice website. 15th Annual Missoula Writes Continues Missoula Writes 15th Annual Writing Contest do you have the write stuff? Missoula Public Library's annual writing contest accepts fiction, non-fiction and poetry submissions through Feb. 19. Prizes will be awarded for the top three submissions in each category and in four age groups: 8-10, 11-14, 15-18 and 19+. This year you will have an opportunity to workshop your entry with local authors prior to submission. To submit your work visit missoulapubliclibrary.submittable.com/submit. Lego Club Join Missoula Public Library for a drop-in Lego Club in the Level Two Imaginarium. Stop by anytime between 2:30 to 5 p.m. every Monday and Friday to create fantastic Lego structures! Adaptive Cooking with MonTECH MonTECH is Montanas statewide Assistive Technology (AT) program, ensuring any Montanan with a disability has access to devices and equipment that support personal independence. This winter, MonTECH is partnering with the Missoula Public Library to host two adaptive cooking demonstrations. On Feb. 6, come to the Level Three Demo Kitchen from 3 to 4 p.m. to learn from MonTECH staff and Missoula chef, Wisam Raheem, about how to incorporate AT into meal preparation. AT can be used to combat challenges with strength, mobility, low vision, tremors, safety concerns, and more. Well demonstrate a variety of adaptive equipment while producing some classic Arabic recipes. Seeley Lake Library: Podcast Studio Open MCAT recently bought a podcasting machine for the Seeley Lake Community library, a branch of Missoula Public Library. The Seeley community is invited learn about podcasting at the Seeley Library between 4 and 6 p.m. on Feb. 6. This podcast machine can accommodate up to four in-person participants with a Bluetooth connection for crystal-clear phone interviews. National Library Lovers Month at MPL: The Enduring Book For as long as humans have made books we have been predicting their demise. Audra Loyal, owner of The Vespiary Book Bindery, will be at Missoula Public Library on Feb. 8 to share why the elegant technology of books continues to thrive in the digital world, and will shed light on the reasons it will persist into the future. Join us in Cooper Room B on Level Four of the library from 6 to 7 p.m. Audra is the owner of The Vespiary Book Restoration & Bindery. Located in Missoula, and operating since 2007, she offers a wide range of book and paper conservation services. With over 15 years in the field, she holds a MLS from University of Washington, and is a member of the American Institute of Conservation and The Guild of Bookworkers. Audra serves individuals, libraries, archives, museums, historical societies and has been an instructor for Montana Library Association and the MOLLI program. Tech Connect: Android Basics Work with a Missoula Public Library staff member in this Android Basics class, Feb. 9 from 10:30 to 11:45 a.m. in Cooper Room A on Level Four of the library. This class is for those who have a new Android mobile device (smartphone or tablet), or are considering getting one, and want to learn more about the basic functions. It will support attendees to get connected, identify common apps, and build confidence in using their device safely. Missoula Job Service: Resume Office Hours Come to Missoula Public Library on Feb. 9 and work directly with Workforce Consultants from Missoula Job Service to get constructive feedback to help you sharpen your resume, edit your cover letter, and focus your job search. Office hours are from 2:30 to 4:30 in Cooper Room B on Level Four of the library and registration required. Call 406-721-2665 or email crystalk@missoula.lib.mt.us to register. Participants will need to bring their resume or cover letter on a flash drive or access it online for this workshop. World Wide Cinema World Wide Cinema is Missoula Public Librarys free monthly film series of first-run independent and foreign films. Feb. 10 the film is Moon, 66 Questions from Greece. When a grave illness strikes down her father, a young woman decides to return home to Greece after being away for a few years. Without expecting it, father and daughter embark on a journey into knowledge and revelation. Running time is 108 minutes. All films are shown in the original language with English subtitles. World Wide Cinema is MPLs free monthly film series of first-run independent and foreign films. Doors are open from 6:15 to 6:45 p.m. and the film starts at 6:30 p.m. in Cooper Room B on Level Four of the library. Late entry is not allowed. Attendees must enter from the librarys parking garage, all other doors are locked. MakerSpace: Light and Lasers - A Photography and Engraving Workshop Interested in experimenting with cameras and lasers? This two-part photography workshop at Missoula Public Librarys MakerSpace may be for you. The first session is Feb. 11 from 2 to 3 p.m. where we'll experiment with creative ways to capture images with digital cameras. In the second session, we'll transfer those digital captures onto wood planks via a laser engraver. Join us for a delightful foray into light and lasers. Part two is scheduled for Feb. 18. To register visit: eventbrite.com/e/light-and-lasers-a-photography-and-engraving-workshop-two-parts-tickets-505723712237. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has accepted requests from Montana and Wyoming to consider removing the grizzly bear from protection under the Endangered Species Act. The Friday morning announcement drew praise from all of Montanas congressional delegation and concern from grizzly protection advocates. Gov. Greg Gianforte had petitioned for the grizzlys delisting in December 2021. Grizzlies have been listed as threatened under the ESA since 1975. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service oversees protections for the species under the ESA. The agency announced Friday morning that it accepted petitions from Montana and Wyoming adjacent states holding most of the grizzlies in the Lower 48 states to delist the species in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem and the Northern Continental Divide Ecosystem. The GYE is centered on Yellowstone National Park. The NCDE extends from Glacier National Park through the Bob Marshall Wilderness Complex. After decades of work, the grizzly bear has more than recovered in the NCDE, which represents a conservation success, Gov. Gianforte said. As part of that conservation success, the federal government has accepted our petition to delist the grizzly in the NCDE, opening the door to state management of this iconic American species. Delisting the species would return grizzlies in those areas to state control. That would allow states to hold grizzly bear hunts, among myriad other changes to the species current level of protection. The potential of hunting grizzlies, which have one of the slowest reproduction rates of all large North American mammals, raised objections from conservation groups. Its disheartening that the federal government may strip protections from these treasured animals to appease trophy hunters and the livestock industry, said Andrea Zaccardi, legal director of the Center for Biological Diversitys carnivore conservation program. After approving the all-out slaughter of wolves, Montana officials have proven they cant be trusted to make science-based wildlife decisions. Our nations beloved grizzlies deserve better. FWS officials noted those local wildlife management changes in the Friday announcement, stating the impact of recently enacted state laws and regulations affecting these two grizzly bear populations is of concern and needs to be evaluated. The Service will fully evaluate these and all other potential threats, and associated state regulatory mechanisms, as it reviews the petitions further over the next year. That may include Montanas decision to block state grizzly managers from assisting FWS in handling or relocating grizzlies captured in conflict situations, such as livestock depredations. In a memo to members of Congress sent before Fridays announcement, the agency stated: The Service finds that petitions from Montana and Wyoming present substantial information indicating the grizzly bear in the Northern Continental Divide Ecosystem (NCDE) and the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem (GYE) may qualify as their own distinct population segment and may warrant removal from the list of endangered and threatened wildlife. The Service finds the third petition, from Idaho, to remove ESA protections for the grizzly bear in the lower 48 states did not present substantial, credible information to warrant further action. Erik Molvar, a wildlife biologist and the executive director of Western Watersheds Project, said Friday that Idahos proposal to delist all grizzlies in the Lower 48 was laughable. Were happy to hear that the Fish and Wildlife Service hasnt slipped so far from reality as Idahos politicians. However, Western Watersheds Project and WildEarth Guardians in a joint statement Friday expressed disappointment in the agencys decision to accept the petitions from Montana and Wyoming: These grizzly populations are still genetically isolated from each other and some half-baked plan to ship Northern Continental Divide grizzlies to the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem does not overcome the distinct lack of state support for a sustainably connected grizzly bear population. Montana has proposed transporting grizzlies between the two ecosystems to facilitate genetic connectivity required for delisting. The FWS findings were the result of the agencys first 90 days of analyzing the states petitions to delist grizzly bears. Acceptance of Montana and Wyomings petitions marks the beginning of a 12-month analysis of the petitions based on the best available scientific and commercial data available, according to Fridays announcement. If those findings result in proposing one or more (distinct population segments) for delisting, the Service will consider those in the context of the ongoing recovery for the rest of the population in the larger listed entity, the agency stated. It also noted, Substantial 90-day findings represent a relatively low bar, requiring only that the petitioner provide information that the petitioned action may be warranted. A previous attempt to delist GYE grizzlies in 2007 was overturned in court because of inadequate research on how disappearing food sources could threaten the species ongoing survival. A later delisting petition in 2017 was also overturned in court with a ruling that there needed to be substantial genetic connectivity between the NCDE and GYE for long-term survival of the species without significant inbreeding. U.S. Rep. Ryan Zinke, R-Mont., was Secretary of the Interior under former President Donald J. Trump during the previous delisting attempt. In a statement on Fridays announcement, Zinke said: The time to delist the grizzly is long overdue. As secretary (of the Interior) I followed the science and guidance of wildlife experts and delisted the Greater Yellowstone Grizzly only to have it overturned by a radical activist judge. I will be working with the Montana and neighboring delegations to introduce legislation to delist the bear and restore state management to our wildlife. Sen. Jon Tester, D-Montana, emphasized the focus on following best available science. After decades of collaborative work between federal, state, local, and Tribal groups, weve seen grizzly bears in Montana come back from the brink of extinction, and thats something to celebrate, Tester said on Friday. FWS took a step in the right direction today, which is a testament to the strength of grizzly populations in Montana. Now state government needs to develop science-based management plans to ensure success, and Ill hold the Biden Administrations feet to the fire to provide support. Sen. Steve Daines, R-Montana, recalled that he and Rep. Matt Rosendale, R-Montana, had lobbied the Biden administration to grant Gianfortes petition for grizzly delisting. This is great news for Montana, Daines said on Friday. The science is clear its time to delist the grizzly bear. Im glad to see Fish and Wildlife Service listen to science, Montanans and Gov. Gianforte to move forward with the process to delist the grizzly bear in the Northern Continental Divide and Greater Yellowstone Ecosystems. Rosendale said Friday that the current subjective bureaucratic mandates do not help the grizzly bear and certainly do not help Montana. FWS invited the public to play an essential role by submitting relevant information, particularly new scientific and commercial data published since the 2021 5-year status review. This information will inform the in-depth status review and can be submitted through regulations.gov: Docket Number: FWS-R6-ES-2022-0150, beginning Feb. 6, 2023, upon publication in the Federal Register and will include details on how to submit comments. The 90-day finding and petition review forms associated with this announcement are now available for public inspection on the Federal Register. Dr. Erik Vilen, the chief of primary care for the Montana Veterans Affairs health care system, knows firsthand the importance of screening veterans for exposure to toxic substances. He served in Iraq in 2003 and 2004 as an enlisted U.S. Army engineer and was the field sanitation non-commissioned officer. That means he was around the now infamous open burn pits, where military waste was incinerated in the desert and where people got exposed to toxins that have caused serious health issues. So I was in charge of burning the stuff, Vilen said. In response to the untold numbers of service members and civilians exposed to the fumes from these open pits, the Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxins (PACT) Act was introduced by Sen. Jon Tester, D-Mont., and passed by Congress in the summer of 2022. President Joe Biden signed it into law on Aug. 8. It expands VA health care and benefits for veterans exposed to burn pits, Agent Orange (widely used in Vietnam) and other toxic substances. On Friday, the David J. Thatcher VA Clinic in Missoula celebrated its one-year anniversary by debuting 10 different programs and service tables. Among the stations was a coordinator ready to conduct toxic exposure screenings. We are hoping to continue outreach on the new PACT Act, which is the most significant expansion of veteran benefits and care in more than three decades, empowering the VA to help millions of toxic-exposed veterans and their survivors, explained Katie Beall, a public affairs officer for the Montana VA. Simply, more veterans are now eligible for VA care and benefits and we hope (Fridays) event can help connect them to every service they have earned. Vilen said the Montana VA has screened about 9,600 veterans of the total 38,000 veterans in the state that are enrolled in primary care. So, for only being several months into this, we have made a concerted effort starting about the first of October to try to screen every veteran, he said. I can say that approximately 48% of our veterans that come in do have a positive toxic exposure screen. Now, keep in mind that includes everything from asbestosis to Agent Orange to airborne hazards and burn pit registry. If they have a positive screening, a follow-up is conducted to see if they need additional evaluation or medical treatments or benefits. Jay Rector served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1969 to 1972 and spent nine months on supply chain duty in Vietnam. Hes unsure of whether he was exposed to Agent Orange, but he got a screening on Friday. He said the new clinic in Missoula has been a huge benefit to older veterans like himself. Honestly, its kind of a pain in the butt to drive to Fort Harrison (a VA Medical Center in Helena) in the winter, he said. I do think the benefit of having a facility on the western slope of Montana is going to be beneficial to a lot of veterans. Susan Calentine is the Womens Veteran Program Manager for the Montana VA. She said the number of female veterans increases every year in the state. We have about 9,000 women veterans, about 4,200 enrolled in the system and about 3,700 that actively seek our services, she said. And those numbers increase 2%-3% every year. She said women could only access gynecological services through the Montana VA in Billings or Helena in years past, but recently those services were expanded to Bozeman. Now, with the assistance of a traveling gynecology nurse practitioner, theyll be providing those services in Great Falls, Missoula, Kalispell and Butte. The number of enrollees in the VA for men are going down, Calentine explained. Theyre still increasing for women. The number of women going into the military has still increased every year. That has been forecast for the last 10 years. Theres 865,000 women veterans within our VA overall in the U.S. and that number continues to rise every year. Calentine, a veteran herself, said the new clinic in Missoula is a whole new ballgame. This is beautiful, she said. Our veterans deserve to walk into a top-notch facility, and they deserve to not only have the best care but also to be able to have it in a great environment. If you can see the audience, they can see you. Be silent backstage. Dont touch props that arent yours. Dont touch or poke your head through the set wall. Thirty-one Anaconda students ranging in age from 5 to 17 years old sat in the theater of Anaconda Jr./Sr. High School and listened to these rules Thursday evening, before their off-book rehearsal of Johnny Appleseed. The two touring actor/directors provided by Montana Childrens Theatre made quick work turning the schools wooden stage into an apple-tree-laden backdrop, with soft fabric made in the image of blue skies above green rolling hills and treetops adorned with red apples. This show marks the first MCT production to grace Anaconda since 2020 because of COVID-19. Copper Village Museum and Art Center in Anaconda has brought MCT to the community 23 times since 1990, according to Dory Larew, tour logistics associate at MCT. Each show can accommodate up to 64 kids, Larew said, and the group travels to approximately 120 communities in Montana and 1,000 communities nationwide from January to May each year. The kids work hard for the week MCT is in town, rehearsing every day from 3:45 to 8 p.m. during the school week except for Monday, when part of the time is devoted to auditions. One of the touring actor/directors in Anaconda this week, Joshua Bennett, said the rehearsals go from 3:45 to 5:45 p.m. for the whole cast, which then gets a 15-minute dinner break. The younger kids, who play the apple seeds, then go home and the rest of the cast rehearses from 6 to 8 p.m., Bennett said. Anaconda homeschool student Katherine Kellogg, 15, plays one of the shows leads, Younger Johnny, and said this was her first time doing MCT in several years. In a week, they make pretty good progress with this many kids, Kellogg said. She said she feels about 75% ready for the shows Saturday, but with Fridays dress rehearsal left, she could get closer to 100%. Ingram Swimley, 16, who plays Older Johnny and goes to Anaconda High School, said he was surprised to get the main part. Its been a really good experience, he said. The last time MCT came to Butte was in 2005, Larew said. Orphan Girl Childrens Theatre hosted the theater group from 1992-2000, she said, and Butte Central Catholic School hosted for a few years after that until the last time in 2005. For a $3,000 base fee, MCT will send two touring actor/directors to put on a show, including an audition, five days of rehearsals, up to three workshops and two shows at the end of the week. Larew said there are many reasons communities choose not to invite MCT back, including money and resources. She added that sometimes, communities will say that after doing the show with MCT for a number of years, they can do it on their own. Usually its a matter of money or interest, Larew said. Larew said most communities are trying to break even, and some do, some make money and some lose money. She referenced one community in Connecticut that makes money by bringing MCT down as a summer camp and charging attendees $300 a head. Kim Lorengo, the music teacher at Anaconda Jr./Sr. High whos been the pianist for MCT shows for what she approximated was 20 years, said there were a lot of homeschool students involved this time around. MCT held one workshop in Anaconda this year; an acting workshop for homeschool students. Its nice to see them and the kids we teach do something like this, she said. The touring actor/directors who went to Anaconda, Bennett and Christian Watts, said this is their first year in the position at MCT, and Anaconda is their fourth stop this season. They wanted to get involved in MCT, they said, to not only inspire students who aspire to be actors in the future, but also to give them and those who dont skills that help them in life. A lot of schools dont have a good arts program, Bennett said. And so its nice to bring theater to kids who dont usually get to experience it This helps to give them the tools and the knowledge to be able to do theater later and not only that, but just help them in life as well. It teaches them to listen and follow directions and be able to understand that if somethings not their prop, dont touch it. It teaches them to have fun and work together as a team. The organization sponsoring MCT must provide housing for the touring actor/directors for seven days, whether that be a hotel or host families. The sponsor can also choose to charge admission or ask for donations to get into the show, and all the proceeds of that go to it. Frustrations and fears over shabby, abandoned houses and the drugs and crime they seem to spawn in parts of Butte have simmered for years. In recent weeks, in one central Butte neighborhood between Front and Platinum streets, theyve boiled over in public anger and exasperation that has county officials and commissioners sitting up. The angst intensified even more when, according to some residents, a top county official scoffed at their concerns out loud during a citizen presentation before council on Jan. 4. Two people said he did so using derogatory terms. The official, Community Enrichment Director Ed Randall, says he did say that some of their statements were false but never cursed. His boss, Chief Executive J.P. Gallagher, says hes looked into the accusations as a private, personnel matter but said that even if Randall didnt curse, his comments were inappropriate in that setting. In a way, the episode is a microcosm of frustrations all sides are feeling over blight in Butte in general and the dilapidated, boarded up houses, abandoned vehicles and decay in one neighborhood. Commissioners feel the pressure, too, and bristled when Gallagher recently suggested he would have different department heads appear before the council to discuss property rights, ordinances and other complexities involved. Several commissioners spoke up, collectively saying, Been there, done that. They want many of these houses demolished and gone. Ive been here for 10 years and Ive been hearing the same stuff for 10 years and these buildings are still standing, said Commissioner Jim Fisher. Its not Community Enrichments fault, its not the Fire Departments fault, its not the Police Departments fault. But somebodys gonna have to take the bull by the horns here, he said. Get a hold of the owners and find out if we can make a deal to get rid of these properties. Commissioner Michele Shea said a presentation by department chiefs would be OK if it isnt about excuses. I think in a nutshell what all of the commissioners are wanting to do is to hear what we can do, not what we cant, she said. Gallagher says he understands the frustrations and is looking at serious steps that could make a difference. He wants to revamp the countys dangerous buildings ordinance and give it more teeth. Randall and other top officials got some revisions passed in 2019, but against their wishes, they were watered down by people concerned about historic preservation and some allies on council. Gallagher also wants structural changes, saying Community Enrichment has taken on too much in recent years. Among other things, enforcement duties and the officials who carry them out belong in the Planning Department instead of Community Enrichment, he said. The county must also do a better job tracking abandoned houses and their owners and following up so the houses are fixed or demolished as quickly as possible, he said. We really need to take a hard look at what works and what doesnt work, Gallagher said. A PUBLIC RISING Residents in parts of central Butte have gotten increasingly vocal about their concerns, saying abandoned houses are magnets for vagrants and criminals who are hiding out. During a Jan. 4 presentation before commissioners that was organized by resident Trudy Healy, they begged county officials to hold property owners accountable and demolish abandoned, dangerous houses. They said squatters get into the houses repeatedly, park junk vehicles everywhere, use and deal drugs and urinate and defecate inside and outside. Karrie West, who lives near a burned and long-vacant house on West Main Street, shared concerns that were echoed by many others. The smell in the summer of human feces and just the mold and mildew of that house I cannot keep my windows open, she said, adding that she doesnt let her 7-year-old twins outside because of unpredictable squatters. Theres yelling, theres screaming, theres fighting, West said. There have been gunshots. My sons want to ride their bikes I have to take them to a park because I feel like its not safe to be out there. Few blame the police, saying theyre stretched thin and the vagrants have scattered or gone silent by the time officers arrive. But they do believe the houses are a root cause of the problems, and theyre not alone in thinking that. Egan Green, chair of the Criminal Justice Department at Radford University in Virginia, said neighborhoods with dilapidated and abandoned houses can be a draw for people with ill intent. Green said a part of town that shows clear signs of neglect sends signals to criminals that this is a place no one cares about. But he said police officers alone cant be expected to effectively address what amounts to a larger symptom of social disorganization. Healy formed a grassroots group called Citizens United Against Urban Decay that is circulating a petition demanding action, and it has gained traction in recent weeks. Green said it sounds like the residents seeking help from local government are working to establish what he described as collective efficacy. Collective efficacy describes what residents are willing to do to improve their neighborhoods. Healy said she felt good about the Jan. 4 presentation and believed J.P. and commissioners were listening. Then a few days later, she heard things about that meeting that left her disheartened. MEETING FALLOUT At least two residents who attended the Jan. 4 presentation said Randall was making comments at the back of the room as citizens spoke up front. A third said Randall did the same near the doorway of council chambers after the presentation. Two of the residents sent Gallagher emails. One said she couldnt make out specifics of what Randall was saying but said he was talking loudly and being disruptive. The other said Randall was laughing, calling the presentation a s***show and referred to a speaker in a derogatory manner. It was disrespectful, the resident wrote, especially given the seriousness of the subject. Healy told commissioners at the next meeting that she had learned a high-ranking county official had made comments during the meeting and after consulting an attorney, she was going to speak publicly about it. She did that a few days later on Party Line, a daily radio show on KBOW, by naming Randall and reading the emails on the air. She later talked to The Montana Standard about it. Gallagher responded to the emails. He told one resident he was looking into the matter and told the other that he spoken to Randall and people who were sitting next to him and took the matter seriously. He also said what he has repeatedly said to the Standard and others that Community Enrichment was getting blamed for multi-faceted problems that are difficult to address, involve other departments and are often police matters. Another resident, Sid deBarathy, told the Standard that as he was walking out of council chambers after the presentation, Randall said to someone that he had heard this s*** before and it didnt bother him. DeBarathy said he lives in a neighborhood near the Country Club but knew Healy and came to the presentation to listen and show support. He also said he has known Randall for years and had no personal ax to grind. Obviously he did not agree with the presentation or what those people were up to but as the guy in charge, holy mackerel, you wonder why nothings getting done, deBarathy said. If he cant look at that presentation that was given at council and not say, Man, we have got to do something to get these homes down and help that neighborhood. Instead, it was like, Whatever. Randall told the Standard he does understand the residents frustrations, respects what they are trying to do and his department has listened and been responsive. As to the reported comments, he said he never cursed and was not loud or disruptive. He said he did tell a fellow department head several times, in response to statements being made, Thats simply not true, and at one point said something was an out-out-lie. I probably shouldnt have but I did, Randall said. But he said he did not curse inside or outside of the meeting that night. Im not perfect but if I said Ive heard this stuff before it wasnt derogatory, he said. Every time Im at these meetings I get beat up. It doesnt bother me personally. Randall said he approached one resident who had spoken at the presentation and told him, Im the gentleman youre upset with. He said, No, I just want something done, and I said, I get it and were working on it. Gallagher said he has looked into the email claims but had not heard about deBarathys statements. He said it was now an internal personnel and discipline matter that carries legal protocols and he could not comment on specifics. We are taking these allegations serious but we want to make sure that were fair to the people that are accusing and also fair to the person who is being accused, he said. The comments Randall acknowledged, Gallagher said, were still inappropriate and we have talked about that. Healy said she had only talked to Randall a handful of times and had no personal vendetta against him, but the comments were disrespectful and out-of-line. She says Community Enrichment and its director are responsible for enforcing decay ordinances as well as coordinating and communicating those efforts with other departments, and that hasnt been done. GOING FORWARD Since the meeting and its fallout, Healy has met with Gallagher and is hopeful steps will be taken to tackle the decay problem. She said Gallagher has been great to work with and believes he is serious about finding solutions. Gallagher told the Standard this week he is serious and that demolition proceedings were progressing on at least two of the area houses. But the problems are indeed complex, he said, and involve property rights and often times absent owners who are delinquent on taxes and uncooperative. The county has gotten some buildings in Uptown demolished, he said, but owners worked with county officials in those cases. There are also residents who oppose demolitions even when buildings are in bad shape. They and some members of the countys Historic Preservation Commission have opposed more stringent ordinances that Randall and others have advocated. Some commissioners have opposed them as well. They dont like buildings torn down in our community and Im not pointing fingers at them that theyre a roadblock, but that is a hurdle we have to work with as well, Gallagher said. But the county can and should do more, he said. We realize our deficiencies, Gallagher said. He said that moving the enforcement arm of Community Enrichment to the Planning Department should improve communication and coordination with building inspectors and others before cases are referred to the County Attorneys Office for potential court proceedings. The countys GIS department is working on a program that will give all departments access to information on abandoned properties, including enforcement timelines and the status of their water and sewer hook-ups. Thats planning, historic preservation, the health department, fire department, police department, the county attorney and myself to make sure if somebody calls me about a property, I can look up where we are in the process, Gallagher said. He said county officials and commissioners must also take another run at enacting a stronger dangerous buildings law. Commissioner John Riordan got $225,000 in delinquent tax proceeds earmarked for demolitions in the last budget and that program is being finalized now. It will allow owners who cant afford demolition costs to apply for cash assistance to get the jobs done. Gallagher acknowledges the angst many residents are feeling and said county officials will be discussing the efforts and issues before council Wednesday night. We are going to work at some type of solution, he said but cautioning that, Its not going to be an overnight change. Sheriff Ed Lester said he also gets the frustration and says his department will do what it can. There are houses that have been neglected by owners that are probably too far gone to repair, he said. I do understand that these houses can attract squatters and criminal activity. We will always respond to calls about suspicious persons or activity and take whatever the appropriate action is, he said. A lot of times we can make an arrest if there is a crime or if the person is wanted on a warrant. If there is not a criminal offense, we usually do our best to get these people to move on. Even when we cant make an arrest or issue a citation, it is always helpful for us to make every effort to be visible in the area, the sheriff said. Just a patrol car passing through on a regular basis can make a difference in the neighborhood environment. The next council meeting is set for 7:30 p.m. Wednesday on the third floor of the courthouse. Legislation to prohibit Montana from requiring workers to receive some types of diversity training was sharply criticized as a gross mischaracterization of those workshops by social equity organizations during a hearing Friday. Sen. Jeremy Trebas, R-Great Falls, is sponsoring Senate Bill 222, also known as the Montana Individual Freedom Act. Its really a reaction to some movements of what would be called diversity, equity or inclusion, Trebas told the Senate State Administration Committee. The same idea with CRT and critical race theory creeping into employment, as in education, in some places and in other areas of public life. The bill forbids employers from requiring trainings or other activities that compel the individual to believe a list of concepts related to race, class and privilege. Among the prohibited concepts is the idea that an individual, by virtue of the individual's class, bears personal responsibility for and must feel guilt, anguish or other forms of psychological distress because of actions, in which the individual played no part, committed in the past by other members of the same class. I find it both interesting and confusing that we're attempting to legislate emotional responses, said Angelina Gonzalez-Aller, the executive director of the Montana Human Rights Network. Guilt and anguish are extremely subjective, and I have many concerns about who will get to determine what learning opportunities guilt and anguish apply to. She said if passed the bill would have sweeping effects on the types of learning and professional development opportunities for state employees and contractors. Another opponent, Lyla Brown with Forward Montana, said she directly benefited from those trainings given to her teachers in Billings, where she was a student. In my experience in Billings, one of my teachers was able to connect me to books about my pieces of identity that were not represented in schools, and this connection allowed me to feel less lonely in my school, Brown said. She also warned it could legally jeopardize the states Indian Education for All program. Trebas said he doesnt object to those types of historical discussions in places of higher education. But I dont think theyre appropriate as opinion-based messaging in employment trainings, Trebas said. So I think the state has a role to play to protect individual freedoms, and I think theres a lot of bias forcing un-objective world view on employees." No one else testified in favor of the bill. The committee did not take any immediate action on the bill. Porter County Commissioner Barb Regnitz, R-Center, speaks in her office at the administration building in Valparaiso, Indiana Friday January 27, 2023. Regnitz discussed, among other things, costs associated for work recently performed at the office. (Andy Lavalley for the Post-Tribune) (Andy Lavalley / Post-Tribune) Before Barb Regnitz had even been sworn into office as Porter Countys newest commissioner, representing Center District, she had already embarked on an office renovation. That included a new, $3,900 desk setup, as well as fresh paint and carpet tiles, new LED light fixtures and, yet to be installed, new blinds and under-cabinet task lighting for the desk. Advertisement Materials, including those already on hand by the county, totaled $555.90 so far, and labor cost another $419, according to documentation from the countys director of facilities, Daniel Sullivan, provided to the Post-Tribune by county attorney Scott McClure after a public records request. Neither Regnitzs predecessor in the office space, fellow Republican Jeff Good, who chose not to seek a third term in office, nor the other two commissioners, Jim Biggs, R-North and Laura Blaney, D-South, invested any county funds in sprucing up their offices. Advertisement In this case it was especially needed because I knew I was going to have regular office hours and be here every day, Regnitz said, adding that the old furniture from the office wasnt thrown away but repurposed someplace else. Porter County Commissioner Barb Regnitz, R-Center, provided some invoices for recently purchased office furniture in her office at the administration building in Valparaiso, Indiana Friday January 27, 2023. (Andy Lavalley for the Post-Tribune) (Andy Lavalley / Post-Tribune) Regnitz, a Republican, defended the purchase and the office refresh and said she maintains daily office hours to meet with other officials and members of the public, and also pointed out that the office hadnt changed since the Porter County Administration Building, at 155 Indiana Ave. in downtown Valparaiso, first opened in 1992. Why a comprehensive renovation approach for the commissioners offices, or any in the building, hasnt been planned, budgeted and executed over a piecemeal approach isnt immediately clear, but Biggs, commissioners president, said commissioners have talked in recent years about renovating their offices but its a logistical nightmare. Theres nowhere to move furniture to while an office is being painted, for example, and because of building hours, the work could only be accomplished on weekends when its closed. Regnitz asked for a new desk and additional storage because of her plan for office hours, Biggs said. I said thats fine if we have enough money for it, he said, adding later that if Regnitz was only going to be in the office a couple of days a week, he wouldnt have agreed to the expenditure. Nothing was done that didnt need to be done or we couldnt afford, he said. Porter County Commissioner Jim Biggs - Original Credit: Porter County (Handout / HANDOUT) The health department is undergoing a renovation, he added, and several departments in the administration building also have had upgrades. Advertisement Additionally, Biggs said, Good turned in his office keys in early December, opening a window of a few weeks when the office could be redecorated before Regnitz was sworn in on Jan. 1 and took over the space. In a text message, Good said he left the office the way it was when he moved in. I did not even get a new chair. I spent nothing, he said. Likewise, Blaney, who is in her 10th year as a commissioner, brought items from home, including two chairs, a side table, decor and a small couch for her children to hang out on when they were young and came to the office with her, but purchased nothing with taxpayer funds. Biggs, for his part, previously served as commissioner for two terms in the 1990s. Now halfway into a second term after running for the post again, hes back in the same office. John Evans, who used the office for 16 years between Biggs terms, left the office alone, Biggs said, and he hasnt changed it since he moved back in, in part for what he called sentimental reasons, since he was the first commissioner to occupy the space when the building opened. Regnitz wasnt the only one to get new furniture. She said the commissioners executive assistant, Melanie Massey, also got a new desk, similar to the one Regnitz got, but didnt get a new chair, at a cost of $3,448, according to documents provided by Regnitz. That purchase, Regnitz said, was necessary because Massey moved into another office space and the furniture there went to a small office on the third floor with commissioners assistant Curt Ellis. Advertisement Regnitz, according to an invoice from Dunes Office and Shop Equipment Inc. in Chesterton, ordered the desk, chairs and storage cabinets in Aspen laminate on Dec. 22 for $3,907, including assembly and installation. The funds for the renovation came from the local income tax fund, out of a budget line item for office equipment. Porter County Commissioner Barb Regnitz, R-Center, speaks in her office at the administration building in Valparaiso, Indiana Friday January 27, 2023. Regnitz discussed, among other things, costs associated for work recently performed at the office. (Andy Lavalley for the Post-Tribune) (Andy Lavalley / Post-Tribune) Regnitz also pointed out that Vicki Urbanik, the outgoing auditor, ordered new chairs for her office from an office supply store in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. In all, the office got nine new chairs at $466.24 each, as well as a task stool for $551.85. The total of that invoice, including shipping and handling, was $5,166.01, according to documents provided by Regnitz. Urbanik said she asked the county council to budget for the chairs during fall budget hearings because they were falling apart and the council agreed to the need. She said the chairs were the only significant furniture purchase in her eight years as auditor. The council approved the purchase with money from the Auditor Non-reverting Fund. Biggs said Good also had the kitchen area in the commissioners office renovated, including a high-end refrigerator, and the kitchenette in the auditors office was renovated at the same time, though with more modest accouterments. The kitchen upgrade in the auditors office, Urbanik said, was at the direction of the commissioners, not her office. Still, Biggs said employees cant randomly decide they want new furniture or other upgrades because they dont have control over whats done or the spending. Theres also no policy or set amount for such requests. Advertisement I think common sense has a great deal to do with it. Whats the need and do we have the money at the time to solve it, he said, adding of Regnitzs office, Its not so much a renovation as making some cosmetic changes. Regnitz expects her office to stay as it is for a long time. Whoever comes in after me, this will be done for another 30 years and I think at a pretty reasonable price, too, she said. alavalley@chicagotribune.com MUSCATINE While giving a budget presentation to the Muscatine City Council Thursday evening, Rebecca Paulsen, vice president of operations and tourism for the Greater Muscatine Chamber of Commerce and Industry said American Queen cruises will dock in Muscatine three days in 2023. As she gave updates on the projects the chamber has been working on, she announced that cruises would dock in Muscatine on July 16, July 30 and Sept. 10, with more dates to be scheduled in 2024. The report also said that when the American Queen had visited on Oct. 22, that 350 guests had visited Muscatine and the event had been considered a great success. The American Duchess had also visited Muscatine in 2022. This is something that has been ongoing for several months if not close to a year, Paulsen said. This is something we are going to continue to work on. We were hoping for some more dates, but their calendar for 2023 was already solidified before we started this process. The Oct. 22, 2022, stop of the American Queen, the largest passenger steamboat in the world, had been one of the final hurdles for Muscatine to be added to the port calendar. During the event, Mayor Brad Bark had commented that few changes would need to be made to the Muscatine riverfront to accommodate the cruise ships. During the event hundreds of people had turned out to see the cruise ship and to give it a sendoff after the passengers had spent the morning in Muscatine. Because of the rising popularity of river cruising, tourist money has been flowing into smaller communities where the boats dock. Vicksburg, Mississippi, reports that since 2018, the American Duchess and sister ship American Queen have brought more than $2 million to the local economy, according to an article in the Vicksburg Post. Paulsen said tickets on the boats were about $3,000 each and the visitors likely would be in their 70s and well-traveled. They really view their port stops as community partnerships, Paulsen said of the cruise line. They like to get to know the people of the area. They are really about coming and getting to know the community. MUSCATINE Secretary of State Antony Blinken met with several Arab-American and Palestinian-American leaders prior to his trip overseas on Jan. 27 at the Thomas Jefferson Room at the State Department. Attending this meeting was Muscatines own John Dabeet. We received individual invites to attend that meeting and in general, I would say that it went very well, Dabeet said. It was a warm, personal, kind of meeting. He came and greeted each one of us, he took a photo with us and we had a discussion. Dabeet said the experience made him feel humbled. When he shook my hand again and thanked me, he said to me keep up the good work in Iowa. So that gave me that sense of pride, not just for being part of this meeting but for being part of Iowa. It made me feel very good. Throughout the meeting, Dabeet and his fellow leaders had the space to discuss the politics that are currently going on in places such as Egypt, Palestine and Israel with Blinken, as well as give their own statements regarding what they hope to see going forward regarding relations with these countries. With Dabeet, the main issues he brought up included requests for the United States to stand strong and support Palestine as a full member of the United Nations, and for the U.S. to reopen the Palestinian office in Washington D.C. while also reopening the American consulate in Jerusalem in order to strength communication. Overall, Dabeet said he felt like it was a good experience, and hoped to have more meetings regarding Palestine with Blinken and other state officials in the future. It was definitely a humbling experience, and it was an honor to be selected by this incredible state to be part of those Arab and Palestinian-American leaders who were able to meet with him. DES MOINES Iowa schools are prohibited from teaching so-called divisive concepts under a state law passed in 2021, but now some Republican state lawmakers are looking to put some teeth on the law by adding fines for educators who violate it. School districts would be fined between $500 and $5,000 if they are found in violation of the divisive concepts law, under a proposal that received its first legislative approval Wednesday from Iowa House Republicans at the Iowa Capitol. The 2021 law defines divisive concepts and includes, for example, teaching students that moral character is determined by ones race or sex, or that the United States and Iowa are fundamentally or systematically racist. Steve Holt, a Republican from Denison, said the proposal to add fines is needed because he believes some school districts he did not name any are violating the divisive concepts law. It would appear to us that this hasnt been complied with in some school districts, that it has been blatantly ignored in some school districts, or that theyre just simply trying to play word games and keep doing the same thing, Holt said during Wednesdays legislative hearing on the proposal. Opponents of the proposal said it does not provide due process for educators who are accused of violating the divisive concepts law. The legislation states that once a complaint is lodged, the state education department will make a ruling; there is no provision for the school district or educator in question to state their case. There doesnt seem to be a whole lot of due process protections for the educators in this. It seems like its just: theres an accusation, someone decides whether or not they did it, and thats it, said Keenan Crow, with the LGBTQ advocacy group One Iowa. Education groups also raised concerns over a provision in the proposed legislation that would require the state education department to accept from students and parents reports of possible violations of the divisive concepts law, and require the department to compile those allegations and report them to lawmakers. Such a report would be a public document. Michelle Johnson, with the Iowa Association of School Boards, said that requirement could produce a report that suggests wrongdoing before anything is proven. http:// And a spokesperson for the state education department said the department would not be able to handle the anticipated volume of reports of possible violations in an adequate time frame without adding more employees. Holt and Rep. Skyler Wheeler, a Republican from Hull who chairs the House education committee, signed off on advancing the House Study Bill 112, which becomes eligible for consideration by the House education committee. Holt said he is cognizant of some of the concerns raised, and signaled a willingness to address some of them in the bill. School transparency School districts also would be required to publish classroom curriculum and library materials online, and have in place a method for parents to ask for the removal of those materials under another bill advanced Wednesday by House Republicans. House File 5 is similar to the Houses proposed school transparency legislation from last year. Majority Republicans wound up not passing any bills on the topic because the Republican-controlled Senate and House could not agree. At a legislative hearing Wednesday, education groups said they are mostly neutral about the bill, and that districts are already doing much of whats prescribed in the legislation. NEW YORK That the death of Tyre Nichols young, Black, just trying to get home came at the hands of Memphis police officers was a familiar refrain in the nation's seemingly endless lamentation of racism and police brutality aimed at Black people. This time around, though, it was five Black officers who were fired and charged with second-degree murder in the horrifying Jan. 7 beating that was caught on video and led to Nichols' death in a hospital bed three days later. But the fact that Black officers killed a Black man didn't remove racism from the situation. If anything, say reform advocates, it showed that a police culture of racial bias and dehumanization is pervasive enough to spread in all directions, even among minority officers whose presence in law enforcement is often touted as proof of reform efforts. "What we have to understand is it is not the color of the officer," said Joshua Adams, an activist in Memphis. "It is the color of who's being policed. That's what creates the difference." The key question is "why does policing show differently for Black people?" Black and brown officers can be conditioned to view Black and brown people as suspect, advocates say. "With any organization or institution, there is a period of orientation where you are being introduced to core values and philosophies," said the Rev. Earle J. Fisher, senior pastor at Abyssinian Baptist Church in Memphis. "I think this happens with police regardless of the color of the police officer. You have spent time in the indoctrination process, and part of that indoctrination is certain people on their face from what some would call cultural bias, or others would call internalized white supremacy you're indoctrinated to believe that certain groups are more prone to criminal behavior than others," he said. "And so you treat Black people as if they are guilty until proven innocent. You treat white people as if they are innocent until proven guilty." Legal scholar Amara Enyia said, "being Black and a police officer does not undo the inherent anti-Blackness in the policing system." "That's one of the most insidious characteristics of the system, because we may buy into a notion that because they're Black means they can't possibly have adopted the norms and values of the system," said Enyia, policy and research manager for the Movement for Black Lives, a national advocacy coalition aligned with the broader Black Lives Matter movement. Many of the highest-profile deaths, such as George Floyd, Breonna Taylor and Michael Brown, were due to the actions of white officers. But other deaths, including Philando Castile, Freddie Gray and Sean Bell, showed that the officers responsible could come from a range of racial backgrounds. And more broadly, in a country riven with as many racial fault lines as the United States, no one is exempt from absorbing some brand of racial messaging throughout their lives, said Derald Wing Sue, professor of psychology and education at Columbia University's Teachers College. "We are all socialized into a society that imbues in us these images of one another," he said. "We can, as people of color, inherit these biases toward one another and often times to our own group as well. They come out in ways that can be very harmful unless we get in touch with them and give ourselves counter messages." The officers charged in Nichols' death drew condemnation for being Black men who committed fatal violence against another Black man. At Nichols' funeral Wednesday, the Rev. Al Sharpton said that while he was in Memphis for the service, he visited the site where the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated in 1968. He said King was in Memphis to fight for Black city workers to be able to work in sanitation and as police. If not for the efforts of King and others in the civil rights movement, the five officers would not have had jobs in law enforcement or been assigned to an elite police squad, Sharpton said. Not far away from the hotel balcony where King was fatally shot, the Black officers "beat a brother to death," Sharpton said in a eulogy. Addressing the officers, he said: "There's nothing more insulting and offensive to those of us that fight to open doors that you walk through those doors and act like the folks we had to fight to get you through them doors." "You didn't get on the Police Department by yourself. The police chief didn't get there by herself," he added. "People had to march and go to jail and some lost their lives to open the doors for you. And how dare you act like that sacrifice was for nothing?" Here is the timeline of events in the arrest and death of Tyre Nichols and what's followed Jan. 7, 2023 Jan. 8 Jan. 15 Jan. 16 Jan. 18 Jan. 20 Jan. 23 Jan. 24 Jan. 25 Jan. 26 Jan. 27 Jan. 28 ELKO, Nevada When Ruby B. Sutton found out she was pregnant in late 2021, it was hard to envision how her full-time job would fit with having a newborn at home. She faced a three-hour round-trip commute to the mine site where she worked as an environmental engineer, 12-plus-hour workdays, expensive child care, and her desire to be present with her newborn. Sutton, 32, said the minimal paid maternity leave that her employer offered didnt seem like enough time for her body to heal from giving birth or to bond with her firstborn. Those concerns were magnified when she needed an emergency cesarean section. Im a very career-driven person, Sutton said. It was really difficult to make that decision. Sutton quit her job because she felt even additional unpaid time off wouldnt be enough. She also knew child care following maternity leave would cost a substantial portion of her salary if she returned to work. Tens of millions of American workers face similar decisions when they need to care for themselves, a family member, or a baby. Wild variations in paid leave regulations from state to state and locally mean those choices are further complicated by financial factors. And workers in rural areas face even more challenges than those in cities, including greater distances to hospitals and fewer medical providers, exacerbating health and income disparities. Companies in rural areas may be less likely to voluntarily offer the benefit because they tend to be smaller and there are fewer employers for workers to choose from. While a growing number of states, cities, and counties have passed paid sick leave or general paid time off laws in recent years, most states where more than 20% of the population is rural havent, leaving workers vulnerable. Vermont and New Mexico are the only states with a sizable rural population that have passed laws requiring some form of paid sick leave. Experts say the gaps in paid leave requirements mean workers in rural areas often struggle to care for themselves or loved ones while making ends meet. The problem is, because its a small percentage of the population, its often forgotten, said Anne Lofaso, a professor of law at West Virginia University. The COVID-19 pandemic steered attention toward paid leave policies as millions of people contracted the virus and needed to quarantine for five to 10 days to avoid infecting co-workers. The 2020 Families First Coronavirus Response Act temporarily required employers with fewer than 500 employees and all public employers to give workers a minimum of two weeks of paid sick leave, but that requirement expired at the end of 2020. The expiration left workers to rely on the Family and Medical Leave Act of 1993, which requires companies with 50 or more employees to provide them with up to 12 weeks of unpaid time off to care for themselves or family members. But many workers cant afford to go that long without pay. By March 2022, 77% of workers at private companies had paid sick leave through their employers, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics a small increase from 2019, when 73% of workers in private industry had it. But workers in certain industries like construction, farming, forestry, and extraction part-time workers, and lower-wage earners are less likely to have paid sick leave. Paid leave is presented as a high-cost item, said Kate Bronfenbrenner, director of labor education research at the School of Industrial and Labor Relations at Cornell University. But it comes with a payoff: Without it, people who feel pressure to go to work let health conditions fester and deteriorate. And, of course, infectious workers who return too early unnecessarily expose others in the workplace. Advocates say a stronger federal policy guaranteeing and protecting paid sick and family leave would mean workers wouldnt have to choose between pushing through illness at work or losing income or jobs. Support for paid sick and family leave is popular among rural Americans, according to the National Partnership for Women & Families, which found in 2020 polling that 80% of rural voters supported a permanent paid family and medical leave program, allowing people to take time off from work to care for children or other family members. But lawmakers have been divided on creating a national policy, with opponents worrying that requiring paid leave would be too big a financial burden for small or struggling businesses. The patchwork of laws nationwide leaves workers in several mostly rural states places like Montana, South Dakota, and West Virginia where more than 40% of residents live outside cities without mandated paid sick and family leave. Sutton said she would have definitely loved to stay at her job if she couldve taken a longer paid maternity leave. She said she wants to return to work, but the future is unclear. She has more things to consider, like whether she and her husband want more children and when she might feel healthy enough to try for a second baby after last summers C-section. Sutton recalled a friend she worked with at a gold mine years ago who left the job a few months after having a baby. And I understand now all the things she was telling me at that time. She was like, I cant do this, you know? Industries Offering the Best Employee Benefits Industries Offering the Best Employee Benefits Total US job quits have risen 36 percent from two years prior Lower wage workers lack adequate access to employee benefits Smaller businesses struggle to offer the same benefits as larger businesses 14. Leisure and hospitality 13. Administrative and support and waste management and remediation services 12. Retail trade 11. Construction 10. Real estate and rental and leasing 9. Transportation and warehousing 8. Educational services 7. Health care and social assistance 6. Wholesale trade 5. Manufacturing 4. Information 3. Professional, scientific, and technical services 2. Utilities 1. Finance and insurance WASHINGTON Supreme Court police officers last fall staffed a table at Washington's armory, where runners picked up their numbers and T-shirts for the Army 10-Miler road race. The officers were promoting an entirely different kind of competition, seeking to recruit new officers in a tight employment market. High court personnel also are showing up on college campuses and military bases to try to fill some of the many vacancies on a police force that's charged with protecting the nine justices and the majestic marble building. The struggle to find new officers is similar to staffing shortages facing police departments across the country. But it comes as the court copes with a rise in threats against the justices, including last year's arrest of an armed man outside Justice Brett Kavanaugh's house, following the leak of the draft abortion opinion overturning Roe v. Wade. The court wont say how many jobs are open on a force with an authorized strength of 189 officers, although job postings say there are many vacancies for new and experienced officers. It would not make available either its marshal or its police chief for this story, and court spokeswoman Patricia McCabe said the court does not talk about security issues. But one visible manifestation of the diminished size of the force is that, as the court has reopened in recent months from its coronavirus pandemic-induced closure, security officers with the U.S. Marshals Service have taken over some of the tasks previously handled by the police, including screening visitors when they enter the building. It once was common to see justices around town without any police presence, shopping at local markets, attending cultural events or eating at Washington restaurants. But as security concerns have grown, even before the deadly Jan. 6, 2021, insurrection at the U.S. Capitol and the opinion leak last May, the justices have acquired a relatively constant guard of officers dressed in suits when they travel to or from work or around town. At the court, police in uniform stand watch at various spots inside and outside the building. Police departments generally are dealing with a drop in applications, an increase in retirements and more difficulty in keeping existing officers. Policing experts say there were signs of these issues before the pandemic, but the aftermath of the killing of George Floyd by Minneapolis police in 2020 sent morale spiraling in many departments. The George Floyd murder had a profound impact on policing, and for some it was deciding this isnt the profession they wanted to be in, or officers deciding to leave the profession, said Chuck Wexler, the executive director of the Police Executive Research Forum. If you look at the Tyre Nichols case, there will be ramifications for who wants to be a police officer in America after everything thats happened in Memphis. The Supreme Court is offering a $5,000 recruitment bonus and another $5,000 within 18 months to some officers who transfer from another department. Congress recently authorized the court to grant student loan forgiveness, matching a perk that long has been available for officers with the U.S. Capitol Police. New hires with no previous law enforcement experience are paid a starting annual salary of $73,852. Officers get four weeks of vacation after three years on the force and are eligible for retirement after 25 years of service, or at age 50 with 20 years of experience. It's unclear whether those benefits will be enough in the nation's capital, where there are many separate police forces, including for museums, mass transit, parks, the postal service, the Capitol, Amtrak and several colleges. That doesn't include the capital's main force, the Metropolitan Police Department, which is engaged in its own struggle to lure new officers in what Wexler described as an especially competitive market. The Washington force advertised at bus stops and on local television in Philadelphia in the fall. Nationally, the shortages have led to unprecedented incentives to be a police officer, like a $30,000 signing bonus for experienced officers to join Seattles police department and a $7,500 bonus to entice officers in Portland, Oregon, to stay. The number of police officers nationwide dropped by about 5,000 from the start of 2020 to the start of 2022. New recruitment has somewhat bounced back, according to a survey of about 180 departments done by the Police Executive Research Forum, though not to pre-pandemic levels. In some places, entrance standards are changing to allow things like visible tattoos. But not at the Supreme Court, according to job postings. No visible body markings are allowed on the head and neck above the uniform collar or on fingers and hands and fingers below the wrist bone. The 9 current justices of the US Supreme Court Chief Justice John Roberts Justice Clarence Thomas Justice Samuel Alito Justice Sonia Sotomayor Justice Elena Kagan Justice Neil Gorsuch Justice Brett Kavanaugh Justice Amy Coney Barrett Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson SIOUX CITY An Omaha woman has been arrested on felony charges, including arson, in connection with an October shoplifting incident at Scheels that involved an explosion. Jessica Katz, 40, was arrested Thursday on charges of first-degree arson, a class B felony; second-degree criminal mischief, a class D felony; and fourth-degree theft, a serious misdemeanor. According to a criminal complaint filed in Woodbury County District Court, Katz and another woman entered Scheels, 4400 Sergeant Road, at 7:03 p.m. on Oct. 26. The women grabbed a number of items from various departments in the store, including a dog collar and harness, three T-shirts, two pairs of jogger pants and a pair of Air Jordan shoes. At 7:32 p.m., the other woman left the store and went out to a silver Mercury Mariner that was parked in the parking lot. After she returned to the store, the complaint stated that the woman grabbed a BB gun and gave it to Katz. The two women then separated, with Katz going to the front display, where she began organizing store merchandise, and the other woman going to the bow section. Then, the other woman removed a lighter and a small device with a fuse from the pocket of her hooded sweatshirt. She lit the fuse on fire and tossed the device onto a shelf before walking away, according to the complaint. A short time later, the device exploded, damaging shelving and merchandise. Dozens of employees and dozens more customers were in the store at the time of the explosion, according to the complaint. Katz exited the store carrying the merchandise that she and the other woman had collected. The complaint stated that they did not pay for the merchandise before leaving the store. Katz dropped the dog harness before the women fled the scene in the Mercury Mariner. The stolen items totaled $562.97, according to the complaint. Katz is being held at the Woodbury County Jail in lieu of $50,000 bond. Counties with the longest life expectancy in Iowa Counties with the longest life expectancy in Iowa #47. Osceola County #47. Henry County #43. Washington County #43. Howard County #43. Wright County #43. Boone County #41. Floyd County #41. Marion County #37. Sac County #37. Winnebago County #37. Warren County #37. Grundy County #35. Jasper County #35. Hardin County #34. Poweshiek County #32. Clay County #32. Madison County #27. Crawford County #27. Keokuk County #27. Delaware County #27. Shelby County #27. Benton County #26. Plymouth County #24. Greene County #24. Linn County #21. Adams County #21. Carroll County #21. Buchanan County #19. Kossuth County #19. Jefferson County #18. Humboldt County #16. Worth County #16. Dubuque County #13. Clayton County #13. Guthrie County #13. Mitchell County #12. Buena Vista County #11. Dickinson County #10. Bremer County #9. Cedar County #7. Jones County #7. Lyon County #5. Hancock County #5. Dallas County #4. Story County #3. Johnson County #2. Sioux County #1. Winneshiek County DES MOINES With meat purchases now back on the table, the debate at the Iowa Capitol over proposed additional restrictions on the food assistance program known as SNAP turned to more familiar territory: eligibility and work requirements. Republican state lawmakers advanced legislation Thursday that for the SNAP program a joint operation of the state and federal governments would require an extra layer of identity verification for recipients, require the state to examine records to ensure recipients are still eligible and require recipients to work at least 20 hours a week, with some exceptions. Technically, the bill also still contains a provision that would limit SNAP users to only foods approved for the WIC program for expectant mothers which would eliminate meat, fish, poultry, nuts and many cooking essentials. But Republicans say they plan to amend it and eliminate only candy and soda, except for zero-calorie sodas. Despite that pledge to constrain the food restrictions, the proposal found plenty of detractors at its first legislative hearing at the Capitol. Of the 40 organizations that are formally registered as either supporting or opposing the bill, 37 oppose the proposal while just three support it, according to state lobbying records. Opponents include food assistance and charity groups like food banks, parochial groups and health care organizations. The three supporters are groups that advocate for limited government and spending and lower taxes. United Way of Iowa advocacy officer Dave Stone said the organization opposes the legislation because of "a number of provisions that will create additional barriers for eligible families who need these benefits." Cyndi Pederson, a lobbyist for the Iowa Food Bank Association, called the proposal for new testing of a SNAP recipients' financial worth "very burdensome." Pederson said Iowa Department of Health and Human Services Director Kelly Garcia has "done a good job reducing administrative burdens in the department and reducing the error rate in programs like SNAP." She also noted that Pennsylvania in 2015 ditched its asset test for SNAP after a three-year pilot program that saw administrative costs outweigh any reductions in spending: by eliminating the asset test, the state saved $3.5 million annually, state officials said according to news reports. "Many states have moved away from an asset limit because it's an administrative burden," Pederson said. Proponents of tighter restrictions on food assistance eligibility say the added measures are need to rein in program costs and ensure the people who are receiving the assistance are the ones who genuinely need it. SNAP is funded by the federal government and jointly administered by the federal and state governments to individuals and families who meet income restrictions. Iowa's share of the program's administrative costs in the 2020 budget year was $22 million, and its average administrative costs of $27.84 per case per month was 18th-lowest among U.S. states, according to federal data. House Republicans moved the SNAP bill just two days after approving $345 million in new state spending on private school financial aid, a program that has no income restrictions. "The intention of this bill is to ensure Iowa's welfare programs are sustainable and remain available for the Iowans who truly need them. These programs provide a necessary safety net for low-income Iowans, and the Legislature wants to make sure the Iowans receiving assistance from these programs are truly eligible," Rep. Tom Jeneary, a Republican from Le Mars who ran the hearing, said in his emailed comments on the bill. "This bill protects the taxpayer by codifying practices to authenticate identity of applicants and requiring verification information prior to enrollment," Jeneary wrote. "This bill importantly requires Iowa's welfare program eligibility processes to be merged into one single system that will verify all income information of applicants and make sure there is no fraud in the program." Iowa's average monthly SNAP participation of roughly 279,000 in the 2022 budget year was the lowest since 2008, according to federal data. Any legislation that would change Iowa's SNAP program would require federal approval. With the two Republicans on a three-member legislative panel signing off on the bill, House File 3 advanced to the full House health and human services committee. Photos and video: Iowa legislators pass governor's private-school funding bill Indiana House Bill 1418 unanimously passed out of the Local Government Committee at the Indiana General Assembly Tuesday morning, a positive start in the process of creating a state law that would allow a second development in unincorporated Porter County, Grand Oaks, the option of requesting annexation by the city of Valparaiso. If it eventually passes into law HB 1418 would be the second bill in as many years allowing for the possibility of noncontiguous annexation of a development that does not directly abut the city limits. Advertisement House Bill 1110 passed last year with the intention of allowing Aberdeen to be annexed should the developments Homeowners Association ever voluntarily request it, and the city of Valparaiso finds the annexation mutually beneficial. It also allowed the annexation of the right of way of a public highway connecting the development to the city, in this case, the easement of Indiana 2 and the water lines that run in it. Its not the highway, its the water, bill sponsor and State Sen. Ed Soliday, R-Valparaiso, said of the strategy behind the law. What we annexed was the water. State Sen. James Buck, R-Kokomo, was not a proponent of noncontiguous annexation, but was willing to cooperate if the city of Valparaiso took on the highway right of way in the event of an annexation. Advertisement We dont like to have septic systems in Indiana if we can avoid them, Soliday said. Hes not concerned these two changes to the law will start a flood of annexation requests. Soliday said in the past cities and towns routinely extended sewer and water to developments with the intention of annexation, but often lost money on those infrastructure investments if the neighborhoods didnt end up being annexed. Now, municipalities are a lot savvier and more selective about annexation, as is the state. Indeed, both laws require a written fiscal plan on the part of the municipality doing the annexing. HB 1418 would simply extend the allowable noncontiguous annexation less than two miles further down the road than HB 1110 currently does. It was conceived after Grand Oaks developer Steve Melvick let the city know he would be interested in the same annexation opportunities for his development that Aberdeen might enjoy. The city approached me and asked me if I would be willing to carry legislation, Soliday said. I dont do public policy for individual developers. Valparaiso hasnt conducted any fiscal plans yet, on either the annexing of Aberdeen or Grand Oaks, to its southwest. Valparaiso City Attorney Patrick Lyp said it wasnt in the citys interest to do so if a legal framework wasnt in place, nor if the developments hadnt requested it. For their part, the residents of Aberdeen are just at the very beginning of a fact-finding mode and have no particular timeline in mind, according to Aberdeen Homeowners Association President Greg Farrall. My life and my job and my world forever has been about numbers and I have none, really, to analyze, Farrall said. He said Aberdeen is looking to hire counsel to guide it in its research. This is a big deal and to do it right we need help, Farrall said. I really dont know what the next step is for us, because none of us has the experience to do the due diligence. So far, the community has developed an annexation committee to tackle the question. It met with three representatives from the city of Valparaiso in December. Aberdeens bylaws require a 50%, plus one vote by its members to move forward with a request for annexation. Advertisement However, the details of such a vote arent spelled out. If theres a married couple do they get two votes, or is it one per household? Farrall asked. Even if the community ends up requesting annexation Valparaiso would need to determine if such a move was in its best interest. Generally cities and towns find it easier to annex vacant, undeveloped property, said Lyp. You must do a thorough financial analysis of what you are annexing in, he said, including the cost of everything you would be providing. In some cases the cost is spread out, but other times more outlay would be called for. Does it make financial sense? If either Aberdeen or Grand Oaks request an annexation the city would then hold at least four or five meetings in the development to educate residents on the fiscal plan. Ultimately, the city council would hold a vote and would adopt an annexation ordinance if annexation was approved. There is no window for requesting an annexation. Either of these developments may do so at any time if and when the law allows, Lyp said. Weve been very interested, said Melvick, whose development is still in the planning and approval stage. I think its a very favorable opportunity. Advertisement Shelley Jones is a freelance reporter for the Post-Tribune. In my previous column, I mentioned the upcoming annual tree failure analysis conference where about 200 arborists gather to learn about tree structural failures. I have attended almost every year since 1996. The database is now up to 6,464 reports. Species profiles are emerging from the data -- failure patterns that can help arborists understand and improve our tree risk assessments. This year we were back together in person at Dominican University in San Rafael. The traditional layout of the day includes case study presentations by arborist who have been called in after trees fall or fall apart, informative presentations by experts and educators, and a training session for arborists who wish to participate by sending in reports on tree failures they have witnessed. Here is a brief overview of the program: 1. A large Italian stone pine that fell at Claremont College in Pomona on July 5, 2021. There was no storm and no strong wind or saturated soil. Presenter Dr. Fred Roth determined the tree failed because of circling roots dating back to nursery production. It confirmed my observations on this species. I have seen many Italian stone pines that have fallen over. And more often than not, they lean. Why? Many start life as tiny, decorated Christmas trees, with the juvenile short bluish needles in a tiny container. The roots of the pot bound little trees keep growing in a circle instead of spreading out for good anchorage. Eventually, the anchorage fails. 2. A 40-inch trunk diameter Oregon white oak that fell in Portland. Jessica Henderson of PG&E examined it and found it was an edge tree in a grove that had been removed for a new development. It was asymmetrical because of crowding by its (former) partner trees. With root zone changes, the soil became saturated, the tree toppled and the whole root mass rotated in the soil. 3. Dr. Jim Clark reported on the phenomenon of Sudden Branch Drop, also known as high temperature limb drop or summer branch drop. It is a strange form of structural failure, where big limbs suddenly and explosively come crashing down on warm and still days. And there is no structural defect or decay. The science of it is still not definitive, but there is a pattern to the warning signs. Typically, the limbs are horizontal and extend beyond the main canopy. Species Dr. Clark reviewed in the database included blue gum eucalyptus, liquidambar and valley oak. The dynamics of this kind of failure apparently involve how branches move up and down as they lose and regain water. Once a suspected vulnerable limb is identified, judicious pruning can help to prevent failure. 4. Tara Kelley from University of California Cooperative Extension, Half Moon Bay gave an overview on wood decay fungibrown rots, white rots, heart rots and sap rots and the fungal species that cause them. UCCE is in the process of publishing an online booklet for homeowners to help them identify decay problems and initiate the process of risk management. It is to be published soon. 5. Trees often die, decline, or structurally fail because of construction changes. Arborist John Leffingwell presented on his experience over many years on how and why this happens and what arborists can do to prevent it. 6. Arborist Jan Scow presented a case study on a very large, old coast live oak that dropped a large limb in Ojai. His research showed that the tree had survived major fires in 1912 and 1917, which probably contributed to its structural defects. 7. Nelda Matheny filled us in on the upcoming "Tree Risk Assessment Best Management Practices," Third Edition. The International Society of Arboriculture continues to refine the BMP to be consistent with risk management in other professions. 8. Dr. Drew Zwart presented on interpreting results from sonic tomography, devices that generate a two-dimensional cross section image of how sound moves inside a tree. The speed of sound varies depending on the density of wood and the presence of cracks and cavities. His case study pointed out how these high-tech devices generate results that can be misleading or difficult to interpret. They are just one tool in the arborists toolbox. 9. Aside from the technical aspect of tree risk assessment is the human dimension, namely outrage, fear, anger and denial. Dr. Igor Lacan UCCE San Francisco, presented on the principles set forth by Dr. Peter Sandman, intended to help us improve our risk communication. We work with people as much as we work with trees. The Napa Valley Register community calendar includes events submitted by our readers. To list your event in the community calendar, fill out the online form at napavalleyregister.com/forms/nvrcalendar. For more details, email Online editor Samie Hartley at shartley@napanews.com. Sunday, Feb. 5 Napa Lighted Art Festival 6-10 p.m. This free, walkable outdoor experience in downtown Napa features 10 lighted art sculptures and projection artwork on 3 iconic downtown buildings. The installations is on display Monday through Thursday from 6-9 p.m. and Friday through Sunday from 6-10 p.m. Info, donapa.com/lighted-art-festival. Tuesday, Feb. 7 Napa High Alumni Association 11 a.m. The Napa High Alumni Association holds its general meeting at Hop Creek Pub, 3253 Browns Valley Road, Napa. The guest speaker will be Jolene Yee, co-president of the Napa Foundation for Options in Education. She will discuss the planned Mayacamas Charter Middle School. All are invited. Free admission. Info, 707-695-7321; marilynkreid@gmail.com. Wednesday, Feb. 8 Youth of the Year 6 p.m. Boys & Girls Clubs of Napa Valley hosts its annual Youth of the Year event at the Uptown Theatre, 1350 Third St., Napa. This free event is a night of inspiration as the community celebrates the journeys of some incredible Napa Valley youth. Info, begreatnv.org/events/yoy; greg@begreatnv.org; 707-255-8866. Friday, Feb. 10-Sunday, Feb. 12 Flyway Festival The San Francisco Bay Flyway Festival returns Friday-Sunday at Mare Island, 1080 Nimitz Ave., Vallejo. The event includes wildlife and nature hikes, tours and educational presentations. Additional events will be held in American Canyon and Solano County throughout the weekend. Visit facebook.com/SanFranciscoBayFlywayFestival for a complete schedule. Saturday, Feb. 11 Black History Month Celebration 2-5 p.m. CrossWalk Community Church, 2590 First St., Napa, hosts the 6th annual Napa Valley Black History Month Celebration. The event sponsored by People Before Policy, First 5 Napa County and JT Thompson invites guests to learn about and celebrate local and historical stories of the Black community, while building healthy relationships across all cultures. Meals available for $15, which must be purchased in advance. Info, nvbhm2023.brownpapertickets.com. Lantern Parade 6:30 p.m. Napa Lighted Art Festival Lantern Parade is a family-friendly "art after dark" experience that takes place in downtown Napa. This short, half-mile loop, starting and finishing at Veterans Park, is energized by live music by Cosmos Percussion Electric. This is a free public event for all ages. Strollers are OK, but no bikes allowed. Info, https://donapa.com/lighted-art-festival. Sunday, Feb. 12 Napa Valley Chamber Orchestra 1:30 p.m. Napa Valley Chamber Orchestra, joined by 11 guest musicians from the local high schools, performs at Congregation Beth Shalom, 1455 Elm St., Napa. Free admission. Info, napavalleychamberorchestra.com. Thursday, Feb. 16 Napa Valley Genealogical Society 1 p.m. Napa Valley Genealogical Society hosts the free virtual presentation The True Story of the 1890 United States Census. Using contemporary accounts and forensic genealogy, researcher Margaret Melaney will unravel the true story of the destruction of the 1890 Census by fire and what's available to replace the records today. To register for the event, visit napagensoc.org and select "The 1890 Census" under Upcoming Events. Info, info@napagensoc.org; 707-252-2252. Conversation with a playwright 7 p.m. Napa County Historical Society, Napa Valley Shakespeare Festival and Napa Valley College host a conversation with playwright Cris Blak at the Napa Valley College Little Theater, 2277 Napa-Vallejo Highway, Napa. Blak is working on a full-length play about Mary Ellen Pleasant, the "mother of civil rights in California" who is buried in Napa's Tulocay Cemetery. The event is free but in-person seating and zoom reservations are limited. To register, visit napahistory.org/event/cris-blak. Saturday, Feb. 18 Seed Swap 8:30 a.m.-noon The Napa County Seed Library hosts its second annual seed swap at CrossWalk Community Church, 2590 First St., Napa. Exchange seeds with local seed savers, community groups and small farmers. Free admission. Info, napacoseedlibrary.org. Sunday, Feb. 19 Sing Napa Valley 3 p.m. Sing Napa Valley presents the salon performance "Its Broadway Today!" at First Presbyterian Church, 333 Third St., Napa. The program includes music from Broadway musicals, spanning from the 1940s through today. Tickets are $25. Info, singnapavalley.org. Saturday, Feb. 25 Family Biking Workshop 9-11 a.m. Napa County Bicycle Coalition and McPherson Family Resource Center hosts a free, bilingual family biking workshop at McPherson Elementary School, 670 Yajome St., Napa, to teach children ages 5-12 and their parents/caregivers the skills they need to ride bikes safely and confidently. Space is limited. Sign up at bit.ly/mcphersonFBW. Info, csainato@napabike.org. Documentary 1 p.m. The Michael Leonardi Foundation hosts a free screening of Dead On Arrival a documentary about fentanyl from filmmakers Dominic Tierno and Christine Wood, at the Yountville Community Center, 6516 Washington St., Yountville. RSVP required. Reserve your seat at eventbrite.com. Info, michaelleonardifoundation.org, 707-815-7744. Thursday, March 9 Napa County Reads 5:30 p.m. Pablo Cartaya, author of "The Epic Fail of Arturo Zamora," will sign books, talk onstage with interviewer Barry Martin and take questions from the audience about the 2023 Napa County Reads book selection at Jarvis Conservatory, 1711 Main St., Napa. Books will be available for purchase at the event. Free admission. Info, eemmett@napacoe.org; https://napacoe.org/napa-county-reads-3. Saturday, March 11 Ol' School Dance Party 6:30-10 p.m. The St. Helena Cooperative Nursery School hosts its Ol' School Dance Party benefit fundraiser at Native Sons Hall, 1313 Spring St., St. Helena. Tickets are $65 and include beer, wine, and food along with live music. Info, sthelenacoop.org. Saturday, April 1 Viva Mariachi! 3-7 p.m. Napa Valley College hosts the Viva Mariachi! Festival at its Performing Arts Center, 2277 Napa Vallejo Highway, Napa. This cultural event promotes the rich heritage and traditions of Mexico through Mariachi music and music education. The event features Mariachi de Uclatlan as headlining performers. Tickets are $15. Info, 707-256-7161. Moodys reaffirms "Export Insurance Agency of Armenia"s rating The newly appointed Human Rights Defender conducted fact-finding activities in Tegh village Armenia ambassador to Canada, newly elected mayor of Ottawa discuss cooperation Investigative Committee: Criminal proceeding launched into wounded soldiers case Woman who threw umbrella at Armenia premier is charged Zakharova responds to Armenia parliament majority faction secretary: They probably mistranslated it to him shamshyan.com: Man found dead, car found on train tracks in Yerevan Matviyenko: Russia hopes Armenia-Azerbaijan peace treaty will be signed soon as possible Armenia, Russia FMs discuss matter of Yerevan-Baku relations normalization Smart solution from AraratBank: electric car loans at an interest rate starting at 9% Armenian legislature speaker: We call on international community to clearly condemn Azerbaijan aggressive actions Ameriabank CEO Artak Hanesyan sums up Triple Best campaign: We believe in potential of our team, Armenia Armenia MOD: Soldier wounded by own weapon Karabakh NSS deputy director, head of presidential Central Information Department are dismissed Armenia official: I wouldn't call this a vector change, I would call it a search for certain security guarantees Armenia parliament speaker expresses concern to Ashimbayev regarding Kazakhstan collaboration with Azerbaijan Armenia, Russia FMs meet in Uzbekistan GeoProMining Gold develops social cooperation with Ararat region Armenia Security Council chief briefs OSCE Minsk Group US co-chair on Azerbaijan provocation near Tegh village CIS FMs next meeting slated for October in Kyrgyzstan Armenia Security Council secretary: International presence needed to resolve many security issues in Karabakh Armenia ruling force lawmaker: PMs orders are mandatory for execution Armenia police hand over Azerbaijani found in Kapan city area to National Security Service Security Council head on CSTO: Not possible that Armenia be offered arms, ammunition help and it refuses Armenia ruling force MP to Zakharova: If we hadn't fought, given casualties, Russia MFA could call as much as it wants USD depreciating against several other major currencies Armenia Security Council chief on Azerbaijan border stability: We expect Brussels to take appropriate steps Armenia Security Council head: There were arrangements with Azerbaijan but most of them were broken CIS FMs to hold meeting in Uzbekistan Armenia Security Council chief: Azerbaijan is preparing for military escalation Newspaper: Army General Staff chief admits that Tegh village incident was Armenian sides omission as well Armenia MOD: Sanitary vehicle staff not hospitalized shamshyan.com: Armenia MOD driver, 2 medical assistants hospitalized after truck, MOD sanitary vehicle collide Brazil's president in China called for abandoning the dollar Artsakh's Ombudsman expresses dissatisfaction to OSCE chairman for attitude of international community Ararat Mirzoyan will go on a working visit to Uzbekistan Police and demonstrators clash on the 12th day of demonstrations in France Anahit Manasyan had a phone conversation with the Human Rights Ombudsman of Artsakh The 12th protest against pension reform takes place in France Russia MOD: No ceasefire violations recorded in Karabakh during last 24 hours Lemkin Institute issues statement on Azerbaijan noncompliance with ICJ order to unblock Lachin corridor MFA: Shushi is Artsakhs integral part in territorial, cultural, economic, historical aspects An earthquake of magnitude 4.3 occurred in southeastern Turkey Charles Michel explains his activeness in Armenia-Azerbaijan relations normalization process Armenia PM to Bujar Osmani: This visit is good opportunity to get familiarized with complicated situation South Korea bans its citizens from traveling to Armenia-Azerbaijan border region Karabakh President convenes working consultation, security challenges discussed OSCE Chairman-in-Office: I am here to find out if there is possibility to build bridges between Yerevan and Baku Armenia PM chief of staff: Azerbaijanis are already in Yerevan, we have ensured their safety Chairman-in-Office: OSCE toolkit provides mechanisms to assist peace process between Armenians and Azerbaijanis Osmani: We are ready for any efforts to achieve positive dynamics between Azerbaijan and Armenia Armenia FM: Replacing army with guards on Azerbaijan border should be part of final settlement Armenia MFA: Rumors about OSCE Minsk Group activities termination are greatly exaggerated 168.am: Who is the Azerbaijani already rendered ineffective in Armenia? What does he say in video? Armenia village youth tell how they caught Azerbaijani Armenia Investigative Committee issues statement on murder of security guard, 56, in Syunik Province Azerbaijani who crossed border into Armenia is caught by locals, found in Achanan village territory 2nd Azerbaijan soldier found, detained in Armenia Armenian health minister: Wounded soldier in critical condition due to Azerbaijan provocation has stabilized Which Armenia company is put on US sanctions list? Premier: Armenia ready for reopening of transport links, delimitation of borders Pashinyan: We are ready to withdraw troops to safe distance along Armenia-Azerbaijan 1991 border Armenia to have trade attache in Germany Azerbaijan MFA accuses France foreign ministry of smear campaign and unfair position Armenia PM: It failed to deploy border guards without escalation of tension Newly elected Armenia ombudsperson announces her priority objective in this capacity Armenia deputy PM, US Deputy Secretary of Treasury acknowledge high level of cooperation between both countries Newspaper: Karabakh soldiers who showed necessary resistance to Azerbaijan military are rewarded Armenia FM, OSCE Chairperson-in-Office tete-a-tete kicks off (PHOTOS) Armenia deputy PM, USAID official discuss opportunities for deepening cooperation Mher Grigoryan, Todd Robinson exchange views on ongoing democratic reforms in Armenia Armenia FM to Derek Hogan: Provocation near Tegh village was another manifestation of Azerbaijan aggressive policy shamshyan.com: Murder in Armenias Syunik Province, 6 gunshot wounds found on body of security guard, 57 US State Department on Armenias Tegh village incident: Use of force to resolve disputes is unacceptable MFA: France deeply concerned about violence that took place near Tegh village of Armenia Legal entity from Armenia on list of those subject to US export restrictions Russia MOD: 4 ceasefire violations recorded in Karabakh EU monitoring mission in Armenia not present in the area when Azerbaijan attacked Armenia National Security Service Border Guard Troops commander dismissed Armenia MOD: Tegh village incident that led to undesirable consequences was due to deployment adjustment Mayor of Frances Lyon expresses unconditional support to people of Karabakh Pashinyan: Armenian side had recognized Nagorno-Karabakh as part of Azerbaijan Criminal proceedings launched into Armenia soldiers being killed, wounded by Azerbaijan near Tegh village Chairman-in-Office: OSCE supports continuation of Armenia-Azerbaijan direct contacts MFA: Russia asked Armenia to explain information about participating in joint military exercises with NATO Zakharova does not disclose details of Russian, Turkish FMs talks on Armenia-Turkey relations Russia MFA spox: CSTO mission deployment details can be talked about when Armenia is ready Zakharova: Russia favors complete unblocking of Lachin corridor Russia MFA: Other players engagement will lead to Armenia-Azerbaijan relations destabilization EU calls on Armenia and Azerbaijan to intensify border delimitation talks, until then to respect 1991 line Russia MFA spox: Yerevan, Baku accepted proposal to hold another bilateral talks Pallone: This is another senseless provocation from Azerbaijani forces against Armenia Zakharova: Russia Border Guard Service, army took measures to de-escalate situation near Armenias Tegh village Armenia deputy defense minister on possible Azerbaijan provocations again: Nothing can be ruled out Armenia MP: Azerbaijanis demanded not to do engineering work, our soldiers responded, battle started from that Marukyan: This is continuation of attacks carried out against Armenia in May and November 2021, in September 2022 About 100 killed in airstrikes in rural Myanmar Criminal proceedings to be launched against Armenia opposition MP Mher Sahakyan Armenia MP: Army corps commander was there, talks were to be held but Azerbaijan resorted to provocation Mher Grigoryan, US Deputy Assistant Secretary of State discuss security issues in Armenia, region Zhoghovurd daily of the Republic of Armenia (RA) writes: Noteworthy circumstances are emerging in the criminal proceedings into the military servicemen who died as a result of the fire in Azat village on January 19. According to the information we received, 2 weeks before the tragic incident, officer Y. H. wrote a report that he wanted to be dismissed from his job or, as it is customary to say, to be discharged from the military. Why did he take this step after the military police inspections in the military unit? What happened inside the [military] accommodation, in general? Hopefully we will get answers to these questions during the investigation when the officer speaks. Let us note that Armlur.am had written that the officer's [legal] defender has been included in the case of depriving the 15 soldiers of life; investigators of the RA Investigative Committee have once again summoned the officer for questioning, but the officer refused to testify. Let us note that the officer had given a verbal testimony, told that he poured gasoline [into the stove of the aforesaid military accommodation] to heat the fire, considers himself guilty and may be tried. But he refused to testify a second time; he refused to testify even in the presence of the [legal] defender. Zhoghovurd daily of Armenia writes: "We had intelligence that larger attacks were being prepared by Azerbaijan when it attacked Armenia last September. Iranian actions and statements helped to stop a further deterioration of that situation," stated Vahan Kostanyan, the newly appointed Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Armenia [(RA)], in a conversation with the Washington-based Al-Monitor website. He claimed that Iran's actions in the fall of last year contributed to the cessation of the Azerbaijani attack against Armenia. These statements by the newly appointed deputy foreign minister are really puzzling if we take into account the statements being made by the RA authorities after the two-day battles in September 2022. For example, on September 17, 2022, during an interview with [program host] Petros Ghazaryan on Public Television Company, RA NA [(National Assembly)] president Alen Simonyan had stated that the US was the biggest author of stopping those events. "The US assistance has been great, but I don't want to prefer it in any way to, for example, the intervention of France or Russia," he had said. There were such statements from the American side, too. And a day before the NA president's statement, on September 16, RA NA Standing Committee on Defense and Security chair Andranik Kocharyan had spoken about the actions of our army and said that thanks to it, we also have regained [combat] positions. "What you said within the framework of the numbers of 10 square kilometers was successful. But after that, there were positions which, as a result of our actions, went back under our control again. Its about six positions. I will not publicize the complete numbers; it is very possible that it will undergo changes again," he had noted. It is not the first time that different representatives of the [Armenian] authorities make different statements on the same matter; thus, in the end, Armenia's international standing is being questioned. The recent terrorist attack on the Azerbaijani Embassy in Tehran, in which Embassy staff were killed, has moved the two nations closer to war, Chris Devonshire-Ellis wrote in an article for international analytical website Silk Road Briefing. Such an event would damage the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC) and close off the Caspian Sea routes from Azerbaijans Baku Port to Irans Caspian Ports, which provide Gulf and South Asian access to goods from Europe. It would compress EU trade with Asia to just the Suez Canal option and probably limit access to the Middle Corridor via Kazakhstan, Devonshire-Ellis noted. The tensions between the two countries have been accumulating with numerous component parts. One of these is related to the Azerbaijani minority living in North-West Iran, numbering about 25-35 million ethnic Azerbaijanis in the country. The Azeri President, Ilham Aliyev said in December 2022 that Iranian Azerbaijanis are part of our nation, Devonshire-Ellis wrote. Another important issue is Azerbaijans foreign policy ties. Baku works closely with Irans main enemy Israel. In just 10 months of 2022, the trade turnover between Azerbaijan and Israel amounted to US$1.2 billion, partially as a result of the Abraham Accords. Baku supplies Israel with oil and refined products, and buys hi-tech weapons dual-use electronics, attack and reconnaissance drones, navigation and optics systems, precision-guided munitions. More recently, the two nations have formalized this relationship, with mutual trade representation offices opening. The Azerbaijani Government has also announced the opening of an embassy in Tel Aviv, Devonshire-Ellis wrote. In Iran, Israel s activity is treated with hostility. Azerbaijan borders Iran by land and the Caspian Sea, which Iran regards as a potential corridor for Israeli special operations forces to use as a springboard to launch attacks on Iran. Theoretically, Israel could use Azerbaijans territory to deploy drone operators, refuel its fighter jets, and to use as a base for sabotage groups. A weakened Iran would potentially allow Azerbaijan to claim two Iranian Provinces West and East Azarbaijan. and potentially, Ardabil, Devonshire-Ellis noted. Another controversial issue is the Zangazur [(Zangezur)] corridor project. Azerbaijan wants to lay a direct road to the Nakhichevan exclave and extend this further to Turkiye. The route would pass through the Syunik region of Armenia. The implementation of the project can cut off Iran from Armenia, and therefore interfere with Tehrans trade with the EAEU countries, Devonshire-Ellis added. In addition, the construction of the corridor will lead to further strengthening in the Turkish region. Iran has a lucrative free trade agreement with the EAEU and this project would potentially hinder what have been growing trade volumes, Devonshire-Ellis wrote. Irans concern increased after large-scale clashes took place on the border between Azerbaijan and Armenia (outside of Karabakh) in September 2022. Baku has shown that it is ready to resolve the issue by force. Tehran said at the time that it would not tolerate border changes. The opening of an Iranian consulate in the administrative center of the Syunik region, the city of Kapan, was visible evidence of Armenias support. In response, the Armenian Foreign Ministry promised to open its consulate in the city of Tabriz, which is considered the capital of Iranian Azerbaijanis, Devonshire-Ellis wrote. After that, Iran and Azerbaijan began to flex their muscles. In October-November last year, Baku and Tehran held army exercises in the border areas and exchanged harsh statements. Iranian MP Mohammad Safai explained that the moves were a message to all ill-wishers. According to him, any action against the Islamic Republic will cost the enemies dearly. Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev said that Baku was forced to start exercises to show that we are not afraid. We will do our best to protect our way of life, the secular vector of development of Azerbaijan and Azerbaijanis, including Azerbaijanis living in Iran. he said. This echoes the Russian position concerning ethnic Russians living in East Ukraine, Devonshire-Ellis added. The United States will have a vested interest in seeing Iran lose a conflict with Azerbaijan and would be supportive of regime change. Should Iran lose territory as a result it is unlikely the United States would care very much. Shorter term, there would be significant disruption to European trade East, resulting in higher prices along all markets of the INSTC and Middle Corridor. Longer term, if regime change in Tehran is effected, then the INSTC corridor will come under a larger degree of Western influence an optimum outcome for the EU and United States. How this would impact Russian trade would depend upon the makeup of any future Iranian government, and their position as regards sanctions and the desirability of relations with Russia, Devonshire-Ellis concluded. The head of the Armenia-Serbia Friendship Group of the National Assembly (NA) of Armenia, Hayk Mamijanyan, on Friday met with Serbian Ambassador Tatjana Panajotovic Cvetkovic, the NA informed. We know on our own skin in case of our two countries what is the price of peace and what importance it has for the development of the country and the peoples security, Mamijanyan said during the meeting. Also, Mamijanyan expressed conviction that the Friendship Groups with new Head and members will promote the peaceful and normal development of the two countries as a result of joint close and effective work. Ambassador Panajotovic Cvetkovic, in turn, stated that the Serbian and the Armenian peoples are connected with the historical-friendly commonalities. The peoples centuries-old friendship creates good basis for the development of cooperation of the two countries. Mamijanyan presented the situation created around the Lachin corridor, underlining that 120,000 people in Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh) are under Azerbaijani blockade.. He spoke about the caused humanitarian crisis, the programmed ethnic cleansing carried out by Azerbaijan. Mamijanyan expressed hope that the international community will make great pressure on the Azerbaijani authorities, stressing that many international structures had already expressed their concerns and talked with the official Baku, proposing them to stop the blockade. Mikayel Tumasyan, a member of the Armenia-Serbia Friendship Group of the NA, informed that in April 2022, as an observer, attended the presidential elections held in Belgrade. He noted that he had a number of meetings with high ranking persons, who warmly spoke about Armenia and Armenian people. Highlighting the work of the Friendship Groups, the deputy noted that at present there is a young Member of Serbian Parliament Armenian by his origin, who is also a member of Serbia-Armenia Friendship Group. During the talk the parliamentary diplomacy existing between Armenia and Serbia and the fact of cooperation in a number of spheres with serious potential of development was underlined. It was noted that the wish of giving new content and dynamics to the agenda of collaboration is great. A reference was made also to the cooperation in the spheres of economy, tourism, culture, science and education. Wilmettes Bed Bath & Beyond will be closing as the financially-troubled retailer is paring down operations nationwide. On Jan. 30, Bed Bath & Beyond known for the home merchandise company announced 87 store closures across the country. Included in that list was the Wilmette location at Edens Plaza on the 3200 block of Lake Avenue. In January, the company reported a 33% decline in sales in the third quarter of fiscal year 2022. Advertisement A company spokeswoman did not provide a specific closing date for the Wilmette store. Store closing sales will commence and continue over the next few weeks and months, a company spokesperson wrote in an email. Advertisement Edens Plaza was purchased by Massachusetts-based WS Development last year. In conjunction with the purchase, the e-commerce retailer Wayfair which sells similar goods to Bed Bath & Beyond is scheduled to open its first bricks-and-mortar store next year in the former Carson, Pirie, Scott building. At each of our properties, we strive to build strong relationships with our tenants and offer support to help them achieve success, a WS Development spokesperson wrote in a statement. We are sad to see Bed Bath & Beyond go at Edens Plaza, but are actively exploring new concepts to introduce to the community, including welcoming Wayfair next year. We look forward to growing alongside the Wilmette community and are excited for whats to come. Wilmette Village Manager Mike Braiman was not surprised by the Bed Bath & Beyond announcement. Weve anticipated for several years this location was going to close given their challenges nationally and also upon Wayfair coming to Edens Plaza, Braiman said. He believed the Bed Bath & Beyond store opened in the mid-1990s. This provides WS Development flexibility to implement their vision, which is going to improve the tenant mix and make Edens Plaza a more attractive destination for our residents and businesses moving forward, Braiman said. The WS Development spokesperson did not offer any specifics on what type of retailer they would like to see in the approximate 33,000-square foot space. Braiman said the village does not have a preference in terms of a store. Advertisement We have complete confidence that WS Development will find the right tenants to make it a strong and vibrant center when they are partnered with Wayfair, he said. Besides Wilmette, Bed Bath & Beyond also plans to close locations in Crystal Lake, Chicago Ridge, Forest Park and Geneva, according to a list on the companys website. The retailer announced last year it was closing locations in Gurnee, Schaumburg, Fairview Heights, Champaign, Carbondale, Joliet, Vernon Hills, Bourbonnais, Quincy and Chicagos River North neighborhood. A representative from Bed Bath & Beyond did not respond to questions regarding the future of other Chicago-area locations in Skokie and Deerfield. Daniel I. Dorfman is a freelance reporter with Pioneer Press. Winnetka may already have what it needs to manage lakefront development under existing code, according to Trustee Andrew Cripe. The Winnetka Village Council conducted a second study session focused on the potential for lakefront regulation in response to ongoing concerns about the development of property south of Centennial Park owned by billionaire Justin Ishbia. These concerns have sparked a whirlwind of discussion and residential involvement as the Winnetka Park District works to begin renovations as part of the districts 2030 Lakefront Master Plan. Advertisement Trustee Tina Dalman said that, after hearing from the Army Corps of Engineers about regulatory changes they have made, she thinks gaps have formed. Trustee John Swierk echoed her concerns. Advertisement We dont know whats going to occur down there in the future, and if I was a lakefront owner, I wouldnt want a present or future neighbor to do something that the village could not oversee. It just seemed to me that there is a wide opening, a gap that needs to be filled here for the future. After learning in the previous study session the villages jurisdiction can extend into the lake, Cripe looked into village code to see what authority is already in place. Sometimes, as a legislative body, what you find is that you have legislation. Its a lot broader than what you like because you cant contemplate every single thing that might happen in the future, he said. We dont have any zoning rules about spaceships so if theres an alien invasion tomorrow, were kind of SOL when it comes to our zoning code, but that doesnt mean we cant address it. Cripe said there are two types of lakefront development. One is designed for shoreline protection with limited purpose such as headland beach systems. The other might depart from what is reasonably necessary for the intended purpose, such as the large steel louvers and planter pockets included in a previous version of the Centennial Beach design. Sections of the existing village code prohibit residents from building impermeable structures without permit from the villages director of engineering. Another section highlights that improvements made in the village cannot be placed on any public space, including the lake, without permit. Village code also states that residents cannot erect a structure that could be considered a public nuisance, which includes obstruction of navigable bodies of water. The village also has a process for addressing nuisances. This is what I would call a very Winnetka process. We dont send a SWAT team. We dont arrest people. We have conversations, Cripe said. We engage people constructively, collaboratively, openly. A lot of times that works, sometimes it doesnt. Then well do it more the Chicago way but we have that ability. The village can remove nuisance structures and bill them back to the homeowner if necessary. Advertisement Village President Chris Rintz spoke directly to lakefront property owners worried that the village is moving toward regulation changes that could impact their property values, saying, If you dont think that every person sitting at this table is cognizant and concerned and sympathetic of value impairment, you dont know this group of people. Resident Ted Wynnychenko suggested at the previous study session that the council consider a temporary moratorium on lakefront development but council members were not keen on the idea. Cripe said that would be picking a fight for the sake of picking a fight. Rintz said he and Cripe met with Ishbia to discuss the project and said he believes Ishbia understands his original designs were an overreach. We talked with him about this and made a couple things very clear. Rintz said. He isnt going to be any different than anybody else, and all this consternation about planter pockets and louvers and trees out into the lake is gone. Ishbias most recent permits to the Illinois Department of Natural Resources and Army Corps of Engineers were approved. These permits include a stone breakwater at the northern end of his property with elevated native plants south of the structure, another stone breakwater parallel to the shoreline connected to the bluff by a steel groin with a cable safety railing along the steel and a grated access boating ramp just south of the northern breakwater. Plans outline stormwater disbursement from the northern breakwater through the stone and steps over the breakwater about two thirds down to ensure public access. Rintz said, along with the updated designs and the conversation he had with Ishbia, he feels he is a genuine individual who just wants to be part of the community like everybody else and has been vilified and made to be something he isnt. Advertisement Hes a fairly financially substantial person who just wants a cool place to live and enjoy the lakefront just like many of the people in this room do, he said. I dont have a problem with that. Maybe you guys do but when somebody asks me for a meeting and says Hey, we want to talk Im there and I think all of us should be to talk and listen and try to find the ground thats common and works. Winnetka Park District President Warren James suggested that to avoid these kind of issues in the future, the village should consider adopting zoning regulations for parks and public places. He said if Centennial had been properly zoned, a lot of the headaches could have been avoided. When I think about what good policy is, a good policy is one that also doesnt make bad neighbors, Cripe said. We need to respect the rights of homeowners to use and enjoy their property. At the same time, we need to respect the health, safety and welfare of the public using the lakefront. Thats a big deal. In the past years tight labor market, many employers have been rethinking hiring criteria and looking for competitive advantages to recruit workers. An organization's performance on environmental and social issues is particularly important to young talent, according to the new Bentley-Gallup Force for Good study. Americans aged 18 to 29 are more likely than those in all older age groups to say it is extremely important that businesses operate in an environmentally sustainable way (77%) and that they reduce their carbon footprint and/or emissions (73%). Young adults are also more likely than older Americans to say it is extremely important for businesses to focus on long-term social benefits; promote diversity, equity and inclusion; and create opportunities for low socioeconomic groups. All of these importance ratings are at least 10 percentage points higher among adults under age 30 than among those 60 and older, and in some cases, more than 20 points higher. ###Embeddable### These results are based on more than 5,700 interviews with U.S. adults in June 2022 via the probability-based Gallup Panel. This study measured public views on businesses adherence to five environmental and social goals: Operating in a way that is sustainable for the environment and planet Reducing carbon footprint and/or emissions Focusing on long-term benefits to society instead of short-term profits Promoting diversity, equity and inclusion Creating opportunities for low socioeconomic groups While the youngest adults are the most likely to say it is extremely important for businesses to promote environmental and social values, middle-aged Americans (45 to 59) are the least likely to agree. Notably, the importance that businesses promote environmental and social issues does not decline by age in a linear fashion. In fact, the oldest group of Americans -- aged 60 and older -- are at least five points more likely than those aged 45 to 59 to view each of these goals as extremely important. This finding holds across major political parties -- among both Republicans and Democrats, the percentage of older adults who view these social and environmental goals as extremely important is higher than the percentage among middle-aged people. Few Young Adults See Businesses Excelling at Operating Sustainably While adults of all ages do not believe businesses are doing well at addressing social and environmental goals, young adults are especially critical. While one in three Americans aged 45 and older (33%) say businesses are doing a good or excellent job of operating in a way that is sustainable for the environment, that figure drops to about one in seven (14%) among those aged 18 to 29. Similarly, 30% of those aged 45 and older say businesses are doing an excellent or good job at reducing carbon emissions, versus 12% of those aged 18 to 29. On social impact goals such as promoting diversity, equity and inclusion and creating opportunities for low socioeconomic groups, young adults are also significantly less likely than those in older groups to feel companies are doing well. ###Embeddable### Seven in 10 Young Workers Would Leave Their Organization for One That Has a Greater Positive Impact The data suggest that businesses should consider their reputation for environmental and social responsibility with regard not only to attracting new young workers, but also to retaining current employees. Overall, 55% of current U.S. employees say they would leave their current employer for an organization that has a more positive impact. However, 71% of workers aged 18 to 29 and 62% of those aged 30 to 44 respond this way, versus less than half of those aged 45 and older. ###Embeddable### Implications The Bentley-Gallup Force for Good study finds that Americans of all ages almost universally feel certain business practices are very or somewhat important -- including treating customers and employees with respect, making money in ethical ways, and offering fair wages to workers of all types. However, younger employees are particularly likely to feel that having a positive social and environmental impact is nearly as important. Given that many Gen Zers and millennials look for work opportunities that contribute to their sense of wider purpose, companies that demonstrate a genuine commitment to being a force for good are more likely to both attract talented young people and keep them engaged in their work. To stay up to date with the latest Gallup News insights and updates, follow us on Twitter. Hong Kong detects new monkeypox infection The CHP says the monkeypox patient is in a stable condition at Princess Margaret Hospital. File photo: RTHK A 40-year-old man has become Hong Kong's second monkeypox patient, with his case being confirmed months after the city found its first infection. The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) said on Saturday that the male patient, who had recently spent time in Japan, developed oral ulcers on January 31, and a fever, headache, rash and swollen lymph nodes later on. The patient sought medical help from a general practitioner and is now in a stable condition at Princess Margaret Hospital, officials added. "An initial investigation revealed that he had high risk exposure during the incubation period amid his stay in Japan," the CHP said. "According to the patient, he had not acquainted any [monkeypox] confirmed patients during his overseas stay and had no high risk exposure after returning to Hong Kong. "As a precautionary measure, the CHP has arranged two household members of the patient to undergo quarantine and receive post-exposure vaccination. No close contacts have been identified after his onset of symptoms. The CHP's epidemiological investigations of the case are ongoing." In September last year, officials reported the territory's first monkeypox patient, a 30-year-old man who had spent time in Canada, the United States and the Philippines. Former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Saturday accused the coalition government of the country of using the recent wave of terrorism to gain "political mileage" for its own benefit, local media reported. In a televised address, the PTI Chairman claimed that terrorism was at its lowest-ever point during his government but resurfaced with a vengeance during the "current regime", Dawn reported. "Look at the graph of terrorism and how it came down during the PTI rule," he said, adding, "Why wasn't there any terrorism when PTI was in the federal government?" Khan pinned the responsibility of rising terrorism on incumbent Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif as he recalled the sacrifices made by the people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) during the war on terror, Dawn reported. "This is why they (KP public) came out yesterday and thronged the streets in fear that there might be another operation," he said, adding that countless innocent lives are lost during anti-terror operations. The PTI chief added that "lies" were spewed by PM Shehbaz in the cabinet meeting over the weekend regarding KP not utilising the terrorism funding properly, Dawn reported. "KP spent Rs 600 billion in nine years. We made four police training schools, an elite training school in Nowshera, a special combat force to fight terrorism," Khan said, adding, "This is why terrorism subsided. A DNA lab was also made in 2017 at Khyber Medical College." Khan also announced a "Jail Bharo Tehreek" as the next step to be taken by the PTI in light of the prevailing political situation that has seen several of its top leaders and allies spend time behind bars. Elaborating on the movement, the PTI chief said "instead of thronging the streets, getting violent and ransacking places, we will now fill the jails of the country". This way, he said, the federal government's "new hobby" of putting every senior PTI leader in jail will also be fulfilled, Dawn reported. "Entire party and the people should prepare for the Jail Bharo Tehreek," Khan said. --IANS san/arm ( 352 Words) 2023-02-04-21:52:02 (IANS) "It is hereby informed that the Ministry of Communications has [directed] the company to convert the NPV of the interest related to deferment of spectrum auction instalments and AGR dues into equity shares to be issued to the government of India," the company said in a filing. The government will take 33 per cent equity in Vodafone Idea after converting all interest related to payments for spectrum and other dues into equity. This will make the government the largest shareholder in the telecom company. Vodafone Idea will convert dues of Rs 16,133 crore into equity and issue shares for Rs 10 each, the company informed. "We had sought a firm commitment that the Aditya Birla Group would run the company and bring necessary investments. The Birlas have agreed and hence we have agreed to convert. We want India to be a three-player market plus BSNL and ensure healthy competition for consumers," Telecom Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said in a statement. --IANS ans/arm ( 212 Words) 2023-02-03-23:28:03 (IANS) India has been going big on electronic manufacturing for the last few years and in December 2022, Apple became the first company from the country to export smartphones worth USD 1 billion in a month. According to an article by Economic Times, December was the record month for the industry with mobile phone exports of over Rs 10,000 crore. Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision for 2023 is to have mobile phone exports with the segment featuring in the top 10 export category from India, Minister of State for Electronics and IT Rajeev Chandrasekhar said, as reported by The Mint. Rajeev Chandrasekhar said that the government would take all the measures that are required for boosting the electronics manufacturing ecosystem in the country, in an interview with news agency PTI. In 2023, the government will look at widening the manufacturing base beyond mobile phone manufacturing. "PM Narendra Modi ji's vision for 2023 is mobile phone exports worth Rs 1 lakh crore, with mobile phones featuring in the Top 10 exported category," Chandrasekhar said. Mobile phone exports from India were around Rs 45,000 crore which was dominated by Apple and Samsung. The Minister said that the government is working to broaden the electronic manufacturing ecosystem beyond mobile phones to increase global share in hearables and wearables segment, IT hardware, electronic components, etc. As per a study by electronics component makers body ELCINA, the demand for components in 2020-21 was USD 32 billion (about Rs 2.65 lakh crore) for about a USD 70-billion (Rs 5.8 lakh crore) industry and of this, barely USD 10 billion (Rs 82,000 crore) was manufactured locally, and that too with a majority of imported raw materials. While the Minister did not elaborate on the specific measures, official sources have shared that the government has plans to come up with a production-linked incentive (PLI) scheme for hearables, wearables as well as an upgraded PLI scheme for IT hardware and electronics components to boost their local production. "We are going to complement our mobile phone successes by broadening and deepening the ecosystem. The deepening strategy has been there in the semiconductor space. It is very clear we want to do more in our component industry. In the broadening, while we are growing in the mobile phone space, we want to do well in IT server and hardware space, wearable and hearable space. These are all areas that are fast growing globally," the minister said. Electronics is one of the fastest-developing industries globally. Electronic products have significantly impacted and shaped the lifestyle of the people of India in the digital world. The digital push stimulated by the Covid-19 pandemic is expected to fuel the demand for electronic devices worldwide. Furthermore, the adoption of electronic devices is estimated to increase steadily and continue to be one of the major global economic drivers. (ANI) If sources from the Bollywood and Rajasthan hotel industry are to be believed, actors Kiara Advani and Sidharth Malhotra will come on February 5 to tie the nuptial knot in Rajasthan, thousands of km away from Mumbai. The families will reach Jaisalmer a day earlier, on February 4. Around 150 VVIPs will reportedly attend this high profile wedding along with the guests from the cinema industry. Kiara and Sidharth will arrive in Jaisalmer on February 5. Preparations have also started at the Suryagarh Hotel. Special security arrangements have been made to monitor the security of the VVIP guests who have been invited in the wedding. Sources said that a wedding planner company in Mumbai is looking after the arrangements. The Suryagarh Hotel is located about 16 km from Jaisalmer. Kiara-Siddharth will tie the knot on February 6 at Suryagarh Hotel in Jaisalmer. Sources said that a wedding planner company in Mumbai is looking after the arrangements. Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan's ex-bodyguard Yasin will handle the security and the hotel staff reportedly are also not able to take their mobile phones inside. Their mobiles will be kept in a locker, so that no photo or selfie is leaked. The crew coming from Mumbai will also not be allowed to use mobile phones. More than 100 private security guards have been deployed. The hotel has 84 luxury rooms booked for guests. At the same time, 70 luxury vehicles have been booked for the guests. This includes Mercedes, Jaguar and BMW. The contract for the vehicles has been given to Jaisalmer's biggest tour operator, Lucky Tour & Travels. About 150 guests have been invited to the star couple's wedding, a source said, adding: "Apart from the families of both, many big names in the industry have been invited, which include directors Karan Johar, Shahid Kapoor, Katrina and Vicky Kaushal, fashion designer Manish Malhotra and Mukesh Ambani's daughter Isha Ambani. Salman Khan is also expected to visit." Kiara and Sidharth have not yet announced anything about their marriage. --IANS arc/pgh ( 351 Words) 2023-02-03-23:12:07 (IANS) Netflix has renewed 'That '90s Show' for Season 2. The announcement comes only weeks after the first season of the show premiered on the streaming service on January 19. According to Netflix, the show hit the Top 10 English TV list in 35 countries, with over 41 million hours viewed. "All of us at 'That '90s Show' were beyond excited by the warm, enthusiastic response to our first season. We can't wait to return to Point Place for another summer of laughs and surprises. Hello 1996!" series co-creator, executive producer, and showrunner Gregg Mettler told Variety. As the title would suggest, the series picks up years after the conclusion of "That '70s Show" in 1995. According to the official logline, "Leia Forman (Callie Haverda) is desperate for some adventure in her life or at least a best friend who isn't her dad. When she arrives in Point Place to visit her grandparents, Red (Kurtwood Smith) and Kitty (Debra Jo Rupp), Leia finds what she's looking for right next door when she meets the dynamic and rebellious Gwen (Ashley Aufderheide). With the help of Gwen's friends, including her lovable brother Nate (Maxwell Acee Donovan), his smart, laser-focused girlfriend Nikki (Sam Morelos), the sarcastic and insightful Ozzie (Reyn Doi), and the charming Jay (Mace Coronel), Leia realizes adventure could happen there just like it did for her parents all those years ago." Topher Grace, Laura Prepon, Ashton Kutcher, Mila Kunis, and Wilmer Valderrama from the original series all featured in the first season, as did Tommy Chong and Don Stark, as per Variety. Netflix's vice president of comedy series Tracey Pakosta told Variety, "We're thrilled that the incredibly funny stories from Point Place, Wisconsin continue to resonate around the world, no matter the decade." The co-creators of 'That '70s Show,' Bonnie and Terry Turner, their daughter Lindsey Turner, and Mettler have also co-created 'That 90s Show'. Along with Marcy Carsey, Tom Werner, Jessica Goldstein, Chrissy Pietrosh, and Mandy Summers, they all act as executive producers. (ANI) A united National Democratic Alliance (NDA) and a united All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) are much needed to defeat the "Theeya Sakthi" of the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK), BJP Tamil Nadu chief K Annamalai said on Friday. BJP state president made the remark while addressing a press conference in Chennai. BJP national general secretary CT Ravi was also present. Earlier in the day they met with the AIADMK leaders O Panneerselvam (OPS) and Edappadi K Palaniswami (EPS). "A united AIADMK and BJP are much needed to defeat the DMK alliance in this bye-election. We have met both OPS and EPS and the meeting was good as we conveyed something to them on behalf of the party's national President JP Nadda," BJP national general secretary CT Ravi said while addressing a joint press conference with Annamalai at the Kamalayam in Chennai. "We have asked them [OPS and EPS] to work unitedly to defeat DMK for the Tamilians. We also tried to convince them to stay united," he said further. For the first time, the BJP had openly admitted for making attempts to unite the AIADMK, as earlier they have termed the latter's conflict their "internal matter". After the demise of Tamil Nadu's former Chief Minister Jayalalithaa in 2016, the AIADMK has been following a dual-leadership formula with EPS as co-coordinator and OPS as coordinator. The clamour for leadership has been growing louder for a single leader in the party since the district secretary meeting on June 14, 2022. As of July 11, 2022, the general council meeting of the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam, Edappadi K Palaniswami has been elected as the interim general secretary of the party. With the ECI not yet ratifying the AIADMK's July 11 general council meeting which abolished the dual leadership formula and appointed Edappadi K Palaniswami as interim general secretary, records with the poll agency still show expelled leader O Panneerselvam as the coordinator and EPS as joint coordinator. However, the case related to the appointment of Edappadi K Panalaniswami as interim general secretary at the party's general body meeting is before the Supreme Court and the order is reserved. Addressing the press conference, CT Ravi said that Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin is turning "unpopular" day by day and there is a huge "anti-incumbency against the DMK" (Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam). "M K Stalin is becoming unpopular day by day. There is a huge anti-incumbency against DMK. They are working for one family and are against the Tamilians. They increased property tax, milk price and everything," he said. CT Ravi further alleged the DMK senior leaders and Members of Parliament (MPs) for "continuously attacking" Tamil culture and said that the "party is known for using money [as power] and misusing the Government and hence they want a united AIADMK. "We all know how by-election happens especially when DMK is known for its usage of money power and misuse of the Government machinery. We are already seeing that in Erode district. That's why a united NDA and a united ADMK is much needed to defeat this Theeya Sakthi in this by-election," he said. Tamil Nadu BJP chief K Annamalai in a joint press conference with BJP national General Secretary CT Ravi mentioned that there is still time to make a decision on the candidature for Erode (east) bypoll as the last day to file nomination is February 7. It is pertinent to mention that Annamalai and CT Ravi had met with OPS and EPS at their respective residences earlier in the day and were expected to declare the party's (BJP) stand on the upcoming Erode (east) bypolls in Tamil Nadu. (ANI) Opposition parties forced adjournments in both Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha over the Hindenburg-Adani group row for the second day on Friday with the presiding officers urging members to take up debate on the motion of thanks to the President's address. Both Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha faced first adjournment soon after the two Houses met for the day with opposition members raising their demands. While Lok Sabha was adjourned till 2 pm, the Rajya Sabha was adjourned till 2.30 pm before the two Houses were adjourned to meet on Monday. In the Rajya Sabha, Chairman Jagdeep Dhankar cautioned members saying those who have come to the Well of the House "will be dealt with". "The House stands adjourned (for the day) with a caution note, those who have come in the Well of the House, violating the regime applicable here, will be dealt with. "I share the distress and anguish of millions of people at the kind of lack of decorum that we are exhibiting here. People expect us to deliberate, and I expect members to abide by the long-standing tradition, a sense of parliamentary practice, to go by the decision of the Chair. You have done your job. You have brought issues to my notice and I have given my ruling. It is unfortunate that public money comes to be so squandered," he said. The opposition parties have sought a Joint Parliamentary Committee over the Hidenburg-Adani row. They have sought discussion over investment by LIC, Public Sector Banks, and financial institutions "in companies losing market value, endangering the savings of crores of Indians" following a report by a US-based short seller Hidenburg Research which has made allegations against some companies of Adani group. Lok Sabha briefly took up the question hour when it met for the day but opposition members continued their protest. Speaker Om Birla urged members to allow the House to function. He said the House has to take up the motion of thanks on the President's address and the oppositon members should not cause disruptions. The first half of budget session will continue till February 13 and the second half will be held from March 13 to April 6. The budget session began with the address by President Droupadi Murmu to the joint sitting of the two Houses of Parliament. Union Budget was presented on February 1. Union Minister of State for Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs Arjun Ram Meghwal lashed out at the Opposition over stalling the two Houses and said they do not want to let the Parliament function. "Yesterday also, Parliamentary Affairs Minister said that we have come to speak on the Motion of Thanks to the President's Address. You can speak anything while having a discussion. They perhaps do not want to let the House function. We request them to let the House function," he said. Several members had given notices for suspension of business to discuss Hindenburg-Adani row. Opposition parties held a meeting in the Parliament earlier in the day to deliberate their strategy. The government's agenda for next week includes discussion on motion of thanks to the President's address and discussion on the union budget. (ANI) "Air India Express flight IX 348, on the Abu Dhabi-Kozhikode route, returned to Abu Dhabi airport following a technical snag in one of the engines. The technical snag was identified while taking off and the aircraft landed back Safely, following all laid down procedures, at Abu Dhabi International Airport with the 184 passengers onboard," Air India said in a statement, adding that they regret the inconvenience caused to the guests on board. The statement added that this event has been reported to the regulatory authorities as per protocol, and alternate arrangements are being made for the guests. Earlier today, a Calicut-bound Air India Express flight from Abu Dhabi landed back at Abu Dhabi airport after flames were detected in one of the engines soon after take-off. Earlier on January 23, an Air India Express flight from Trivandrum to Muscat landed back 45 minutes after taking off due to a technical glitch, officials said. According to officials, the flight management system (FMS) developed a technical glitch. "The flight took off from Trivandrum at 8.30 am and landed back at 9.17 am," they added. In December 2022, a snake was found on a Dubai-bound Air India Express flight. Air India Express Boeing B-737 flight from Calicut to Dubai took off as scheduled and after landing at Dubai airport, the staff reported a snake on board the aircraft. The aviation regulatory body, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), had ordered a detailed probe regarding the incident, the aviation body said. (ANI) Chinese companies are accelerating the construction of a new type of power system on the back of renewable electricity growth, spurring demand for smart grids and power storage, experts said. The new power system takes wind, solar, nuclear, biomass and other new energies as the mainstay, with other resources like coal as supplements. It highlights the advancement of technology to support a large scale of new energies smoothly connecting to the grid. Lin Boqiang, head of the China Institute for Studies in Energy Policy at Xiamen University in Fujian province, said: "Different from fossil fuels, new energy power generation has higher requirements for the safe and stable operation of the power system. That's because most new energies are intermittent resources, which have rapid and random changes. This makes it hard for stable and steady power generation. "Besides, it causes volatility in voltage and frequency disturbances in grid operation during power transmission. As a result, it's necessary to develop new power systems to meet growing demand buoyed by increasing new energy installations." Lin also said that as important components of the new power system, the promotion of smart grids and power storage will help mitigate the fluctuations in new energy power generation and transmission. Last year, State Grid Corp of China put into operation 15 sets of pumped storage facilities with an installed capacity of 4.55 million kilowatts, exceeding the annual production plan of 12 sets. By the end of 2022, the company's installed capacity of pumped storage totaled 28.06 million kW. The company vowed to expand its pumped storage installed capacity to 100 million kW by 2030. As an important way of power storage, pumped storage facilities have two water reservoirs at different elevations. The facility pumps water from the lower reservoir to the upper reservoir when there is excess power on the grid and releases water to generate power when there is demand for electricity. China Southern Power Grid has also stepped up efforts in the sector. As of November, its seven pumped storage power stations generated 8.585 billion kilowatt-hours of electricity. It vowed to expand its pumped storage installed capacity by 6 million kW during the 14th Five-Year Plan (2021-25) period. The two companies also beefed up grid construction. SGCC planned 38 ultrahigh voltage grid projects from 2021 to 2025 with a total investment of 380 billion yuan ($56.4 billion), as China's new energy saw rapid development in recent years. According to the China Electricity Council, in 2022, China's newly installed power generation capacity was 200 million kW, of which 160 million kW was that of nonfossil energies. Many regions said they now have record installed capacities in new energy power generation. For instance, State Grid Xinjiang Electric Power Co Ltd, which is responsible for power supply in the Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region, said the installed capacity of new energy power generation in the region reached a record 40.655 million kW, accounting for 36.09 percent of the total installed capacity. The Northwest Branch of State Grid Corp of China, responsible for power generation in five provinces and regions in Northwest China, including Gansu province and Qinghai province, reported installed capacity of 157 million kW of new energy power generation in these areas, accounting for 45 percent of the total and surpassing that of coal. The company said new energies have, for the first time in history, become the largest source of power generation in Northwest China. "China has seen rapid development of new energies in recent years with the advancement of technologies and production of high-quality equipment. With more support from the government and the capital market in the pipeline, China is very likely to lead the world in the new energy sector and become an important force in the establishment of the framework of global standards for the international new power system," Lin said. Last year, the International Electrotechnical Commission proposed China leads the creation of the framework of global standards of core technologies in the world's first new power system, in a bid to accelerate the low-carbon transition of the energy sector. Targeting All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) chief Asaduddin Owaisi, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Minority Morcha National President Jamal Siddiqui said, "Owaisi is the second variant of Pakistan founder Muhammad Ali Jinnah." Siddiqui made the remark while talking to the media persons after a meeting of the National Working Committee of BJP Minority Morcha organised at the BJP headquarters in Raipur on Thursday. Siddiqui also said, "The way Jinnah divided the country for his own interests and for the chair, in the same way Owaisi is breaking the country's Ganga Jamuni Tehzeeb for his chair. He is breaking the unity and integrity of the country." Talking about the meeting, he said, "We are connecting those people of minority community with Prime Minister Narendra Modi who are exploited and deprived. We are connecting those people who are educated, understand the reality of political parties and PM Modi's policies that Modi ji wants the development of the country and countrymen." Explaining the role of the Minority Morcha in the country, Siddiqui said, "We have identified 60 Lok Sabha seats across the country, where the Minority Morcha will visit and connect the minority community people with Modi ji. The minority community will be made Modi friends.' When asked why the National Working Committee meeting of Minority Morcha was organised here in the election year, he said, "Chhattisgarh is a good state and the people here are very good. That's why all the national office bearers of the Minority Front wanted to meet the people of Chhattisgarh, so the meeting was organised here." "In the National Working Committee meeting, we expressed gratitude to the party for extending the term of BJP National President J P Nadda for a year. We will win the 2024 Lok Sabha elections under the leadership of Nadda. We thanked PM Modi for holding 200 meetings of G 20 in 56 cities of India. Leaders across the world will be aware of our culture. PM Modi is making India a Vishwa Guru," the BJP leader said. Minority Morcha state in charge Dr Salim Raj, Minority Morcha state president Shakeel Ahmed, BJP state media in-charge Amit Chimnani, Minority Morcha media co-incharge Sachin Masih and others were present in the meeting. (ANI) The ruling Biju Janta Dal (BJD) on Friday demanded to restart Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana (PMGKAY) in the interests of the household food security of the poor and the farmers. Senior Vice President of BJD Debi Prasad Mishra said that "it was good that the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana (PMGKAY) was started to provide additional 5 kgs free rice per person apart from the 5kg rice of NFSA per person. However, stopping it by the Centre will affect the Household Food Security of the poor as well as the farmers." Mishra said that the recent budget has seen a reduction in food subsidy by about Rs. 71,000 Crores compared to the amount spent by the Centre in 2021-22. This will affect the household food security of the poor. This reduction is primarily due to the stopping of the PMGKAY programme. After the COVID pandemic, the industries and livelihood are still to come back to normalcy." "The poor had lost whatever little savings they had in the pandemic. Economic life hasn't returned to normal. Stopping PMGKAY now will affect the poor and their chance to get their lives back to normalcy after the pandemic." "The farmers will also get affected by the stopping of PMGKAY. The recent budget has also seen a reduction of about Rs.20,000 Crores compared to the amount spent by the Centre in 2021-22 in the procurement of foodgrains. This is again due to the stopping of PMGKAY and therefore reduction in procurement from farmers. This reduction will impact farmers. Due to reduction in procurement, the farmers will also be deprived of getting their Minimum Support Price (MSP) for selling foodgrains." "In the interests of the poor and the farmers, we appeal to the Centre to restart the PMGKAY programme". Mishra also hoped that the BJP MPs would take up this matter before their Party in the Centre and emphasize the need for restarting PMGKAY in the larger interests of the household food security of the poor and the sale of foodgrains by the farmers. After providing PMGKAY for two years, its sudden withdrawal will severely affect the poor. Before stopping such a huge programme, the Centre should have either provided an alternate programme or taken care of the financial adverse impact it could cause on the poor. In this case, neither was done." " We appeal to the Centre to rethink on these lines and restart the PMGKAY programme in the interests of the poor and the farmers," Mishra added. (ANI) The prime accused in the 2017 Actress Assault Case Sunil NS, popularly known as Pulsar Suni has approached the Kerala High Court and sought bail. Single Bench of Justice PV Kunhikrishnan has posted the matter to February 13th for consideration. Sunil NS, popularly known as Pulsar Suni, the prime accused in the 2017 Actress Assault Case has approached the Kerala High Court seeking bail. Single Bench of Justice PV Kunhikrishnan has posted the matter to February 13 for consideration. Offences under Sections 120 (B), 109, 342, 366, 354, 354B, 357, 376D, 201, and 212 read with Section 34 of the IPC and Sections 66 A and 66 E were of the IT act were charged against Suni, who is in jail for the past six years. He had earlier approached the High Court for bail in March 2022. The same bench had on March 29, 2022, rejected the plea. When he approached the Supreme Court against this, it also rejected the same and directed him to approach the High Court if the trial has not concluded in a reasonable time. In the fresh plea, Sunil contended, "There is absolutely no chance of the trial being concluded in the near future. The applicant has not moved any other court seeking the same relief and shall not move a similar application during the pendency of this application. The petitioner is not in a position to defend his case properly by consulting and discussing with his lawyer, since he is not on bail and is not being produced in court every day. The basic right of the applicant to defend his case properly itself is defeated." The case pertains that, the actress who worked in Malayalam, Tamil and Telugu films, was allegedly abducted and molested inside her car by a group of men who had forced their way into the vehicle on the night of February 17, 2017. Dileep who is a famous Malayalam actor and producer is the eighth accused in this case. There are a total of 10 accused in the case. (ANI) Ramesh hit back at the Narendra Modi government at the Centre over its allegation that Opposition MPs were wasting public money through repeated adjournments in Parliament. The Congress leader clarified that the Parliament was adjourned on Friday as the Opposition members pressed for the referral of the Hindenburg-Adani Group issue to the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC). "Parliament adjourned for another day because the Opposition demands a JPC on PM-linked Adani issue that is playing havoc on the savings of crores of Indians. Modi sarkar says MPs are wasting public money. What about the crores people have lost over the last few days of MahaMegaScam?" Ramesh tweeted. A report by a US-based Hindenburg Research surfaced on January 24, claiming that the Adani Group had weak business fundamentals, and was involved in stock manipulation and accounting fraud, among others. The report triggered a sell-off of shares of all Adani Group companies. Earlier on Friday, the Opposition members raised the demand for a JPC inquiry into the Hindunberg report against the Adani Group, alleging a scam. A number of Opposition leaders, including Congress' Leader of Opposition in the Rajya Sabha, Mallikarjun Kharge; DMK MP Tiruchi Siva; Congress MP Pramod Tiwari; BRS MP K Keshava Rao; Shiv Sena MP (Uddhav Thackeray faction) Priyanka Chaturvedi; Congress Rajya Sabha MP Dr Syed Naseer Hussain; and CPI(M) MP Elamaram Kareem gave suspension of Business notice to their respective Houses to hold a discussion on the allegations levelled by Hindenburg against the Adani Group. (ANI) Officials claimed that the incident left five persons, including the JCB driver and police personnel, injured. After the incident, a sizeable police contingent was deployed at the spot. According to police, the anti-encroachment drive was being carried out to bring down a wall that had allegedly been raised in an illegal manner. "We received information about a boundary wall that had come up illegally. An anti-encroachment drive was being conducted when some locals started pelting stones at the bulldozer The incident left some police personnel and the JCB driver injured. Police personnel in adequate numbers have been deployed at the spot," Ujjain Additional District Magistrate Santosh Tagore told ANI. He added that the drive was carried out after the officers received information about the encroachment on government land. (ANI) Police Commissioner of Kanthi, Rana Tata, on Friday said the constable, identified as Tanneru Venkateshwarlu, made derogatory remarks against the chief minister, his family and the government during an interaction with a villager at a petrol pump near Gouravaram village in NTR district on January 1. "He used obscene language and made inappropriate remarks about the government, the chief minister, and their family members. Moreover, he used words that may incite hatred and hostilities among communities," he added. The Chilakallu police have registered a case on the complaint of a person who took the video of the alleged incident. "It is an offence for a responsible public servant to speak in a manner that incites enmity between two political parties," the Commissioner said. Chillakallu Police took the constable into remand after the Additional Judicial First Class court, Jaggaiyapet sentenced him to 14 days' police custody. "The said constable was suspended as part of the disciplinary action taken by the Vijayawada City Police Commissioner. The commissioner informed that strict action will be taken against anyone found inciting hatred in society despite being in a responsible job," an official statement by the Police Commissioner officer read. (ANI) Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Friday interacted with the NCC cadets and members of the National Service Scheme (NSS) belonging to Assam who had taken part in this year's Republic Day parade in the national capital. During the interaction, Sarma asked about the experiences they gained through their participation in the Republic Day parade. The Chief Minister also answered various queries of the NCC and NSS members regarding the life, work, motivation, etc., of the Chief Minister. He appealed to the young NCC and NSS cadets to continue working towards the process of nation-building by utilising the experiences gained during the preparations and practice for the Republic Day parade. Sarma also appealed to them to write about their Republic Day parade experiences in their respective educational institutions' magazines and souvenirs. "This would inspire others to imbibe a sense of nationalism and patriotism," he said. The Chief Minister responded to queries by the young cadets on success, failure, life-lessons, motivation, among others. "Life does not always move forward on a straight lane but often meanders along a zig-zag path. It is, therefore, important that one takes motivation not only from success stories but also learns from the stories of failures," Sarma said. He also said that there is no short-cut to success and one must take part in a healthy competition. The Chief Minister further said only those who realise the purpose of life manage to make a permanent place in people's memory. The event was attended by Additional Chief Secretary (Sports & Youth Welfare) Maninder Singh, Guwahati-based NCC Group Headquarters Group Commander Brigadier Dinar Dighe, and other dignitaries. --IANS tdr/pgh ( 286 Words) 2023-02-03-23:12:04 (IANS) Two juveniles, working as field executives for a leading digital payment company on false pretences, have been apprehended for allegedly duping rickshaw pullers and vegetable sellers on the pretext of applying for bar codes, an Delhi Police official said on Friday. Police said that both the accused activated the e-wallet postpaid account of the victims secretly and siphoned off money from their payment accounts. The accused, who got the job using the identity of their older friends, are Class 11 students of a government school. According to Deputy Commissioner of Police, North, Sagar Singh Kalsi, a complaint was lodged by Ashish Kumar, an e-rickshaw driver, in which he stated that he has been duped of Rs 60,000 by two boys, who came to him and suggested him to apply UPI bar code for easy online payment. "The boys further told him that the service is free of cost and while using the application of the complainant, both transferred Rs 60,000 to some other account," he said. Police had also received another complaint with similar modus operandi and during investigation, both the juveniles, involved in the cases, were nabbed from Nangloi area. On questioning of the duo, it was revealed that one of them came to know about a part-time job of installing the bar codes and started working by using the ID of one of his friends who was above 18 years of age. "Another juvenile also got fascinated and started accompanying him. The duo used to go to random places and install bar codes for vegetable vendors, auto-rickshaw drivers etc. As installing the bar codes requires using the e-wallet account of their customers, they both grabbed the opportunity to cheat these account holders," the DCP said. "They had cheated three persons, including the complainants, of Rs 60,000, 8,000 and 8,000 respectively. The duo used to spend money on a lavish lifestyle and to impress their girlfriends," he added. --IANS ssh/vd ( 337 Words) 2023-02-03-23:14:03 (IANS) BJP leader and Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said on Friday that in the next 500 years, there will be no CPI-M government in India. Sarma, who is the convener of the BJP-led North-East Democratic Alliance (NEDA), while addressing three elections rallies in Tripura, said that without donation, not a sinle government service could be availed by the people of the state during the CPI-M regime. "CPI-M remained in power in Tripura as it got underground support from the Congress, otherwise the Left party would have been voted out of power 10 years back," Sarma said. The Assam Chief Minister said that the BJP will not allow dividing Tripura and urged people not to waste their votes by supporting the Tipra Motha Party (TMP). The TMP led by former royal scion Pradyot Bikram Manikya Deb Barman has been demanding to elevate the Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council areas by granting 'Greater Tipraland State' or a separate state status under Articles 2 and 3 of the Constitution. Deb Barman, in the presence Sarma, had held inconclusive meetings in Delhi recently with Home Minister Amit Shah and discussed the separate state demand. After the meeings, the tribal leader unilaterally announced to contest the February 16 Assembly election without forming any alliance, and accordingly fielded 42 candidates to contest the elections to the 60-member Tripura Assembly. The Assam Chief Minister said that if the people vote for the TMP candidates, there would be no development in Tripura. He said the Tipra Motha can at best win two to three seats, which will not be enough to form government in Tripura. Tripura would have witnessed massive development during the last five years had there been no pandemic, which slowed down the welfare activities, Sarma said. The Assam CM also predicted that the CPI-M-Congress alliance will draw a blank in the upcoming elections. --IANS sc/arm ( 327 Words) 2023-02-03-23:26:01 (IANS) In December last year, the Tourism department of West Bengal had launched a Kolkata pass called 'Discover Kolkata' in a bid to draw visitors to multiple tourist hotspots in the city. However, many tourists in the city from across the country told ANI that they were unaware of the Kolkata pass. The integrated city pass promises a hassle-free visit to a tourist to as many as 25 tourist attractions in the city over a period of seven days. The QR code-based pass is meant to spare visitors the hassle of standing in queres to fetch tickets for visiting some of the prominent landmarks of Kolkata. They said they want the Mamata Banerjee government in West Bengal to facilitate an e-messaging system which would enable to receive timely alerts on the new services and facilities launched to attract visitors to Kolkata. Speaking to ANI, Rahul, who arrived in kolkata from the national capital, New Delhi, a couple of days back, said, "I am here for a few days and plan to visit some destinations like the Indian Museum and Victoria Memorial. I bought tickets from a counter after standing in a long queue and waiting my turn. I wasn't aware of the Kolkata pass. I hope to avail it on my next visit." Principal secretary of of the state Tourism department, Dr Soumitra Mohan, told ANI, "We have introduced an Integrated City Pass for facilitating easy and convenient access to at least 25 major tourist attractions in the city, for both domestic and international tourists. Called 'Discover Kolkata', the pass will remain valid for seven days. The pass can be booked online through the Tourism department website www.wbtourism.gov.in." "Soon we will add some more destinations that one may visit with a City Pass. These include the Birla Planetarium and Arabindo Bhawan," he added. As of now, the city pass gets a tourist access to Victoria Memorial, Indian Museum, Netaji Bhawan, Nicco Park, Rabindra Tirtha, State Archaeological Museum and Kolkata Police Museum.Nazrul Tirtha, Aircraft Museum, Eco Park, Alipore Museum, Mother's Wax Museum, Natya Sodh Sansthan Nehru Children Museum, Birla Industrial and Technological Museum, Smaranika Tram Museum, Asiatic Society, Swami Vivekananda's Ancestral House, Science City, Kolkata Port Maritime Heritage Museum and Gandhi Ashram. (ANI) The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) government announced on Friday that normal travel between Hong Kong and the Chinese mainland will fully resume starting Feb. 6. The arrangements include opening up all boundary control points without imposing any prescribed daily numbers of people, canceling the pre-departure nucleic acid test requirement, and enabling cross-boundary students to resume face-to-face classes in an orderly manner, according to an official press release. The arrangements were made upon deliberation and coordination with the central government, the Guangdong provincial government and the Shenzhen municipal government, it said. Alongside the various boundary control points in operation at present, the Lo Wu Control Point, the Lok Ma Chau/Huanggang Control Point and the Heung Yuen Wai/Liantang Control Point will be opened up for full passenger clearance services under normal operating hours. Hong Kong will also allow cross-boundary students to return from the mainland to the city for in-person classes in two stages, first allowing secondary school students to return starting Feb. 8 and then allowing primary school, kindergarten and special school students starting Feb. 22. John Lee, chief executive of the HKSAR, said that since the first phase of border reopening between Hong Kong and the mainland began on Jan. 8, Hong Kong's business, retail and catering industries are ready to welcome more visitors. Lee said he believes that Hong Kong will be more prosperous and active in 2023 with the full resumption of cross-boundary travel between Hong Kong and the mainland starting next Monday, which will greatly boost people-to-people exchanges. Kashmir's youngest social media influencer, will be one among many of his kind to address an international forum hosted by the College of Information and Communications and the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organisation. Hailing from Baramulla's Sopore town and a student of Shah Rasool Memorial Welkin Sopore, Aqsa Masrat is the youngest social media influencer from the Kashmir Valley who has built an enviable following with her captivating videos. After gaining much popularity in the J-K, Aqsa was invited by the University of South Carolina to speak at an international forum about the role and impact of social media on today's youth. Calling the international forum's invitation a proud moment, she said it gives her a lot of happiness that her work is being recognised not only by the people of Jammu and Kashmir but also at the international level. She added that anything was possible of achieve if a person was willing to work hard for it. "Nothing can be possible without hard work. And a person should have self-confidence that she can do it. She has to show the world that she can," she said. Besides making videos on day-to-day issues, Aqsa also highlights the civilian problems in her immediate neighbourhood in her social media posts. She has also posted videos showcasing the local cultivation and harvesting processes as well. The work of the teen influencer has been loved and shared by a wide cross-section of viewers both in the country and beyond. She said apart from content creation, she is also taking care of her studies as she wants to become an IAS officer. Asked how she handles both fronts, Aqsa said, "It often gets tiresome to create content while also studying at the same time. However, I am focussed on my studies and make videos only in my spare time." She said her family is supportive of her role as a social-media influencer. Her YouTube channel ttiled 'What Aqsa Says' has more than 50,000 subscribers while her Facebook page has over 60,000 followers. Aksa will be the only Indian influencer to address the session moderated by Kenneth Moton, a former ABC correspondent and 2004 graduate of the School of Journalism and Mass Communications. The official website of the South Carolina institute states that prominent social media influencers, subject matter experts, and young people from all over the world were coming together at the University of South Carolina to discuss the role and impact of social media on today's youth at an international forum hosted by the College of Information and Communications and the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organisation. Aqsa said she was just 6 years old when she made her first video, which was about 'Chillaoi Kallan' -- the harshest forty days of winter in Kashmir. (ANI) Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Friday expressed special thanks and gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman for making a provision of Rs 5004 crore in the Union Budget for the development of rail facilities in the State. "This will undoubtedly expand the rail facilities in the state. Passenger facilities will increase and 11 major railway stations will be redeveloped in the state," Chief Minister Office (CMO) said in a statement. In the Union Budget for the financial year 2023-24, the central government earmarked Rs 5004 crore for rail projects in Uttarakhand. The budget allocation is believed to speed up the major ongoing projects of strategic importance like the Rishikesh-Karnprayag rail project, figure Haridwar and Dehradun railway stations in world-class and will also modify nine other stations. CM Dhami said that Dehradun and Haridwar railway stations would also be given a world-class look. Passengers will get a lot of convenience from the provisions made regarding rail facilities. "In the One Station One Product (OSOP) scheme, local products of the state will also be encouraged," he added. The Finance Minister during her budget speech in Parliament announced that a capital outlay of Rs 2.40 lakh crore has been provided for the Railways, which is the highest ever outlay and about 9 times the outlay made in 2013- 14. Earlier on Thursday, reacting to the proposed budget CM Dhami said that India's role has become that of a global leader under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. "The Union Budget 2023-24 is an important step towards a strong India. This is the budget of Amrit Kaal, the golden age of India," he said. Dhami was speaking on the Union Budget 2023-24 at a press conference organized at Chief Sewak House of CM Camp Office. The Chief Minister said that special attention has been given to the 'poor and middle class' in the budget. "Those earning up to Rs 7 lakh in a year will not have to pay income tax. The middle class and the employed class will get a lot of benefits from the new income tax slab. With the increase in the budget of Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, everyone's dream of a strong roof will be fulfilled. A new savings scheme has been announced for women. Interest will be given on this at the rate of 7.5 per cent per annum," CM Dhami said, adding, "This budget has brought a gift for the farmers". (ANI) "According to preliminary investigation Rajbir Kumar (53) reportedly shot two rounds at himself from his service revolver on Friday evening at around 4.15 pm, while he was deployed at the residence of IB Director under the Tuglaq Road Police Station limits," Delhi Police said. "The body of the deceased security personnel has been sent for autopsy and things will be cleared after the report," police said No suicide note was recovered from the spot, they said. The district forensic crime team was called to recover fingerprints from the spot. Police are investigating the cause behind the act. The family of the deceased CRPF personnel who hailed from Madhya Pradesh has been informed, and inquest proceedings under CrPC Section 174 have been initiated. Further information is awaited. As per data available, in the paramilitary forces there were 123 suicides in 2017, 96 in 2018 and 129 in 2019. The figure stood at 137 in 2020 and at an all-time high of 153 suicide cases in 2021 with 58 cases reported by CRPF. (ANI) Continuing his attack on Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), Bharatiya Janta Party (BJP) leader and former MP Kirit Somaiya said that he will lodge a formal police complaint later in the day on Saturday against its Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST) public utility, and also against private firms and contractors associated with the civic body. Kirit Somaiya in a tweet on Saturday said, "COVID ki Kamai. Today 3:30 pm I along with 100 Workers/Drivers will file Complaint at Colaba Police Station against BEST, Kish Corporate Services of Kishori Pednekar and MP Enterprises for cheating fraud Forgery and robing employees of salaries, provident fund." Somaiya earlier on Wednesday announced that he will expose "one more scam of the civic body". "COVID ki KAMAI" Exposing One more scam of BMC today. 2.30 pm today, I will be meeting Labour Minister Suresh Khade at Mantralaya Mumbai to submit a detailed complaint," the BJP leader said in a tweet. Last month also Somaiya alleged corruption on part of BMC in procuring Remdisivir injections during the Covid-19 pandemic. But, the Maharashtra Lokayukta exculpated the BMC of any "irregularity" or "non-transparency" in a complaint filed by the BJP leader. "It has not been established and proved by the complainant that there was any corruption in the purchase of injection Remdesivir by the respondents. It is also not proved that there was irregularity and non-transparency in the purchase of this injection by them," the Lokayukta stated in an order. (ANI) Assam Police spokesperson Prasanta Kumar Bhuyan on Saturday said that so far 2,170 people involved in child marriage cases have been arrested in the state. "The figures of the arrests in Child Marriage cases have risen. Till this morning, the police had arrested 2,170 persons across the state and it will increase further," Inspector General of Police (Law and Order) (IGP L&O) Bhuyan told ANI. Director General of Assam Police (DGP) GP Singh, while addressing a press conference on Friday, said that 4,074 cases related to child marriage have been registered at different police stations across the state. Singh said that among the arrested individuals 52 were priests and Qazis involved in child marriages. "The maximum number of people have been arrested from Dhubri, Barpeta, Kokrajhar and Vishwanath districts," he added. DGP Singh further informed that Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma had directed the Police to carry out a probe as he had got inputs that child marriage was rampant in the state. "About two months ago, CM Sarma had told police that he had got inputs that child marriage was rampant in the various parts of the state and directed Police to carry out a probe. After the directions from the CM, all the district SPs were told to get in touch with respective village defence parties, Gaon Buras, chiefs of various communities and prominent people of various communities and on the basis of that we have observed that there are instances of child marriage in various parts of the state," DGP Singh said mentioning that the collected data belonged to the years 2020, 2021, and 2022. The DGP said that most of the cases have been registered under different provisions of the POCSO Act and IPC sections and action will be taken as per the law. He said that the arrested persons will be produced before the court. Meanwhile, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma had informed that the crackdown against child marriages in the state would continue in the coming days. (ANI) The Jammu and Kashmir Traffic Police on Saturday morning informed that traffic was plying smoothly on the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway whereas the Mughal road and SSG road are closed. According to the MeT department, mainly dry weather has been forecast for the next 24 hours in Jammu and Kashmir with very light rain and snow at one or two places in northern Kashmir. Another weak western disturbance is expected from tomorrow night which may bring a fresh spell of rain or snow, according to the MeT department. Srinagar, Gulmarg and neighbouring areas have been over the past few days have been covered in a thick blanket of snow due to which the local traffic and the normal life of the area got affected, according to some locals. The local people also claimed that the air traffic has also been impacted due to heavy snowfall in Srinagar. The Ramban administration on Wednesday advised commuters using the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway to follow a traffic advisory after shooting stones blocked both sides of the road. "A major slide has occurred near Rampadi, Banihal, on National Highway-44. People are advised to follow the @Traffic_hqrs advisory," Ramban Deputy Commissioner Mussarat Zia tweeted. Big boulders of stones were seen midway, hampering traffic. Earlier on Monday, the highway was blocked due to heavy rains and shooting stones at Panthyal in the Ramban district. "Intensity of shooting stones increases at Panthyal, Ramban on National Highway-44, which remains blocked. Wait for more updates. Travelling is highly unadvisable," Ramban Deputy Commissioner had tweeted on Monday. Heavy snowfall and inclement weather conditions on Monday forced the University of Kashmir to postpone all postgraduate, engineering and other examinations scheduled on Monday. (ANI) Microsoft has now made its Teams Premium service available with features that are powered by OpenAI's GPT-3.5 AI language model, which has been all the rage in the past months. According to The Verge, an American technology news website, the new premium tier includes an intelligent recap feature that automatically generates notes, tasks, and highlights of meetings thanks to GPT-3.5. It also does branded meetings, and custom meeting templates, and has features like watermarking to better protect meeting contents. Intelligent recap is the most notable new feature of Microsoft Teams Premium, and it may entice users to pay the USD 7 per month per user introductory pricing merely to get a sense of how valuable it will be. Intelligent recap utilizes OpenAI's GPT-3.5 model to generate meeting notes and highlights even if you were not present. It makes catching up a lot easier when meetings are held at awkward times or when employees are in different time zones or out of the office. As per The Verge, Microsoft is also taking some Teams features and making them Premium-only. Live translated captions, custom organization Together Mode scenes, and a number of virtual appointments features will now be available for Premium only. (ANI) Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel and Jharkhand Police recovered arms and ammunition on Friday after they nabbed a Naxal bunker in the Burha Pahar area. The Deputy Inspector General of Police Rajkumar Lakra while addressing the press said, "It is an extension of 'Operation Octopus' and was launched on January 31. Under this operation, the District Police, CRPF, 209 CoBRA and Jharkhand Jaguar nabbed one light machine gun (LMG) and some other ammunition. These arms were found on small pathways under in a bunker." While speaking about the 'Burha Pahar' area which is known for a Naxal base, DIG Lakra said, "The people of the villages that lie at the bottom of 'Burha Pahar', have faith in the administration now. Their belief in the system has enhanced and they are cooperating. " "Earlier we had busted a bunker in which heavy arms were seized including improvised explosive devices (IED). In January, this is a better recovery," added DIG Lakra. Earlier on Thursday, three personnel of the Central Reserve Police Force sustained injuries in an improvised explosive device (IED) blast on Thursday during a search operation in the forest area of Jokepani, Jharkhand, the CRPF officials said. According to CRPF officials, they have also recovered 4 rifles, including LMG and the Jharkhand police. "A search operation was launched by the joint team of 209 CoBRA and Jharkhand Police in the forest area of Jokepani, Nawatoli, Latehar, Jharkhand," CRPF said in a statement adding that all the jawans have been evacuated and are getting medical treatment at Ranchi. As the troops inched forward checking every suspected spot in the region, they recovered a huge quantity of arms and ammunition. "The recovery included a 5.56 INSAS LMG, two 7.62 SLR Rifle, a 5.56 INSAS Rifle, 13 assorted magazines, and 470 assorted rounds," it added. 'Burha Pahar' is a mountain range spread over 55 square kms known to be a Naxal bastion. It touches Chhattisgarh's Balrampur and Latehar as well as Jharkhand's Garhwa districts, was captured in a joint operation of Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) general duty battalions, its Naxal specialised wing CoBRA, Jharkhand Police and Jharkhand Jaguar-- a special force of Jharkhand Police in September 2022 under 'Operation Octopus'. (ANI) Home minister offered prayers at the temple with his wife, Sonal Shah. The Home Minister embarked his visit to the state for attending a 'Vijay Sankalp' rally and lay the foundation stone of the IFFCO Nano Urea Plant in his day-long visit to the state today. Amit Shah will also attend the Centenary Celebrations of Ramakrishna Mission School here. As per the schedule, Shah started his tour to Jharkhand with him offering prayers at the Baba Baidyanath temple and will lay the foundation stone of the IFFCO Nano Urea Plant at IFFCO ground in Deoghar. Here, he will also attend a 'Vijay Sankalp' rally and in the evening, would attend the event of Centenary Celebrations of Ramakrishna Mission School. This is the second visit of Amit Shah within a time span of one month. Amit Shah had visited Jharkhand's capital Ranchi on January 6 and held the party's core group meeting and a public rally in Chaibasa on January 7. The Minister's visit to Jharkhand is crucial in view of the 2024 parliamentary elections besides the 2024 Assembly elections. (ANI) Officials at Sadar Bazar police station and local businessmen set an example of humanity on Saturday and handed over an amount of Rs 1 lakh 76 thousand rupees to the family members of Gulab Singh, the worker who lost his life in a blast inside the shop in which he used to work. While Gulab succumbed to the blast, five other persons were also injured in the incident. Delhi Police lodged a case under relevant sections of the Explosives Act after a forensic team probe found that the explosion was caused due to firecrackers. The shop owner, Mohammad Faiz has already been arrested by Police. "Initially, the accused fled after spreading a rumour that the blast was the cause of a water booster explosion. A police team raided his hideouts and nabbed him. During interrogation he disclosed that he used to deal in fire crackers during festival seasons some years ago and on the day of incident he was sweeping his godown for storage of Holi festival items," the police had said in an official statement "He did not disclose the contents of the bag containing firecrackers to the deceased as no one was ready to dispose it off due to its nature. While the deceased was carrying the said bag it blew up on the stairs," the police said in its statement. The police said that they had booked a case under Section 285, 337, 394(ii) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and Section 5, 9(B) of the Explosives Act under the limits of Sadar Bazar police station. The Delhi Police also said that they scanned through the CCTV footage from the surrounding area in which they found the accused handing over the 'plastic katta' to the deceased right before the explosion occured in the godown. "The blast had taken place in the said plastic katta on the staircase of the building where the accused has a godown at the first floor," the police said mentioning that they have recovered traces of small fire crackers from the spot. (ANI) Miaoyuan village in eastern China held a ritual ceremony on Saturday to celebrate "Lichun," one of China's 24 solar terms to mark the formal start of spring. Miaoyuan village holds a ritual ceremony to mark the begining of spring at a local temple in Quzhou city, Zhejiang province, on Feb. 4, 2023. [Photo/China.org.cn] The ceremony, performed in a time-honored fashion, began at 9 a.m. at a local temple. As part of the rituals, participants presented flower baskets and sacrificial offerings to Goumang, or the God of Spring in ancient China, to wish for a bumper harvest and prosperity in the year. A child wearing a traditional shepherd's outfit whips a buffalo in a ritual to mark the beginning of spring in Miaoyuan village, Zhejiang province, on Feb. 4, 2023. [Photo/China.org.cn] A highlight of the ceremony was the "Whip the Spring Ox," where an elder villager plowed the field with an ox-pulled plow, while a child whipped the ox, singing a folk song. In another ritual called "greet spring," 24 "spring messengers" stood on either side of the temple's doorstep and chanted "spring is coming," holding lanterns in their hands. These rituals symbolically signified the start of the farming season for the year. Twenty four boys and girls stand on either side of the temple's doorstep in a ritual to mark the beginning of spring in Miaoyuan village, Zhejiang province, on Feb. 4, 2023. [Photo/China.org.cn] The ritual ceremony, dated back hundreds of years, has been formally held each year since 2005 in the village at the start of spring. The 24 solar terms, including Lichun, were added to the UNESCO list of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2016. Tamil Nadu Bharatiya Janata Party state president on Saturday said that his party has requested O Panneerselvam to support Edappadi Palaniswami's candidate in the upcoming Erode (East) bypoll in Tamil Nadu. Addressing a press conference in Chennai, Annamalai said that the BJP won't contest the by-polls but would support the candidate from AIADMK. The Edappadi K. Palaniswami (EPS) faction of the AIADMK has fielded KS Thennarasu as its candidate for the seat, while its OPS faction has fielded T Senthilmurugan for contesting from the same seat. Extending its support to the EPS candidate Thennarasu, Tamil Nadu's BJP chief said that they want someone who is well-known in the constituency to contest the election. "A candidate who is well known in the constituency, EPS candidate KS Thennarasu is a two-time MLA and we want someone who will be the right person to win. We requested O Panneerselvam to also support the Edappadi Palaniswami's candidate," Annamalai said adding that they won't interfere to the "inter-party issue" but would prefer OPS to withdraw the name of the candidate from his faction. "No interference by us in the AIADMK inter-party issue...BJP prefers that O Panneerselvam withdraw his candidate," he said. The bye-election in Erode (east) is scheduled to take place on February 27, as the death of Congress leader Thiru E Thirumahan Everaa necessitated them. Accordingly, Tuesday, February 7 is the last day to file nominations for contesting polls here. After meeting the leaders of both factions in AIADMK, Annamalai on Friday said a united National Democratic Alliance (NDA) and a 'united' AIADMK are much needed to defeat the "Theeya Sakthi" (evil force) of the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK). "We have asked them [OPS and EPS] to work unitedly to defeat DMK for the Tamilians. We also tried to convince them to stay united," Annamalai said addressing a press conference with BJP's national General Secretary CT Ravi at Kamalalayam in Chennai on Friday. For the first time, the BJP had openly admitted to making attempts to unite the AIADMK, as earlier they used to term the latter's conflict their "internal matter". The AIADMK has been following a dual-leadership formula with EPS as co-coordinator and OPS as coordinator. since the demise of former Tamil Nadu CM Jayalalithaa in 2016. The clamour for leadership has been growing louder for a single leader in the party since the district secretary meeting on June 14, 2022. As of July 11, 2022, at the general council meeting of the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam, Edappadi K Palaniswami was elected as the interim general secretary of the party. Notably, the Supreme Court has asked the AIADMK party General Council to pass a resolution related to a candidate who will represent the party in the upcoming bye-elections of Erode (East) constituency in Tamil Nadu. It also permitted expelled three members of the party including O Panneerselvam (OPS) to also vote in the General Council. In a development to this, EPS had circulated an affidavit to get the endorsement of General Council members for former MLA Thiru. K.S. Thennarasu as their preferred candidate for the Erode (east) by-polls. As per the officials, the documents will be duly signed by the Presidium Chairman Tamilmagan Hussain and will be duly submitted before the Election Commission by Monday. (ANI) The Crime Branch of Delhi Police has arrested an active member of the Neetu Dabhodiya-Ashok Pardhan's Gullar Pardhan Gang from Dichaon Kalan in the Najafgarh area of the national capital. The apprehended Gullar Pardhan Gang member has been identified as Vishal (29) belonging to the Atayal village of Haryana's Rohtak. According to an official statement from the police, the team of Crime Branch acted on a specific tip and arrested the "proclaimed offender" and parole jumper in a robbery case, lodged against him under sections 392 and 34 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) in Bawana. "He is an inter-state criminal and close associate of the Ashok Pardhan gang. He is previously involved in murder, attempt to murder and robbery cases committed along with gang members for taking revenge from rival gangs," it added. The case pertains to 2019 when one Lokesh Gupta of Bawana alleged that when he was about to lock his shop on May 5, 2019, at around 10.15 pm, some persons carrying weapons came and two of them entered his store and fled away after robbing around Rs 5 lakh cash. "Subsequently, on the statement of the complainant, a robbery case vide FIR No. 204/19 U/S 392/34 IPC was registered in PS Bawana and investigation was taken up by Local Police," it read further. In the said case, the police arrested five accused persons identified as Gaurav Monti, Hitesh alias Happy Bajitpuriya, Nitesh Dhondhu, Lakshya alias Golu, and Vishal. "SI [Sub-Inspector] Anil Saroha had been developing information and pursuing the accused. Finally, specific information was received that he would come to the Najafgarh area to meet his associate," it said further. According to the police statement, Vishal used to do odd jobs, when in 2015, he started working at a private wine shop in Sonipat and when he had a quarrel with an unknown person in 2018, he sought help from his brother-in-law who introduced him to Gullar Pardhan. At their base in the Sisana village of Sonipat, Vishal met with his associates Gaurav Monti, Hitesh alias Happy Bajitpuriya, Nitesh Dhandhu, Lakshya alias Golu and others. (ANI) National Investigation Agency (NIA )on Saturday detained three suspected activists of the proscribed Popular Front of India (PFI) in Bihar's Motihari), according to officials. The three persons were apprehended by a joint team of NIA Patna and Ranchi along with Motihari police from the Chakia Police Station in Motihari in Bihar's East Champaran district, police said. The reason behind the arrest is yet to be ascertained with officials stating that those apprehended will be interrogated. "Three PFI suspects have been picked up by NIA with the active help of Motihari police today morning from the Chakia subdivision area and detained for joint interrogation by Bihar police and central agencies. Further updates will follow," Motihari police said in a statement. The NIA's investigation into this case is in progress. Further information is underway. Earlier in January, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) filed a chargesheet against four accused in the Bihar Popular Front of India (PFI) case, pointing that "criminal conspiracy was hatched with an intention to carry out acts of terror and violence, leading to an atmosphere of terror and endangering the unity and integrity of the nation". The anti-terror agency filed the chargesheet in a special NIA court in Bihar's capital Patna. The accused persons namely Athar Parvej, Md Jalaluddin Khan, Nooruddin Zangi alias Advocate Nooruddin and Arman Malick alias Md Imteyaz Anwer were chargesheeted under sections 121, 121A, 122, 153A and 153B of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and sections 13, 17, 18, 18A, 18B and 20 of Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967. All the accused are residents of different districts in Bihar. The case pertains to the involvement of the accused and suspected persons, associated with the PFI in unlawful and anti-national activities, who had assembled in Phulwari Sharif area of Patna.The case was initially registered on July 12 last year at Phulwarisharif police station in Patna and re-registered by the NIA on July 22 last year. During investigations, accused persons Athar Parvej, Md Jalaluddin Khan, Nooruddin Zangi and Arman Malick were arrested for their involvement in the instant case. "Investigations revealed that the criminal conspiracy was hatched with an intention to carry out acts of terror and violence, leading to an atmosphere of terror and endangering the unity and integrity of the nation," the NIA said in the chargesheet. (ANI) Sonu was convicted by special Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) court. The incident dates back to December 1, 2022, a minor girl was found dead in City Forest, under the Shahibabad Police Station limits. As per the complaint filed by the deceased girl's parents, the girl was raped and murdered. Advocate Sanjiv Bakharwa, Public Prosecutor in the case said, "a case was registered on the basis of a complaint filed by the deceased girl's parents. The charge sheet was filed in this case on December 15, after Police arrested the accused after examining CCTV footage." He said that the case was then transferred from the main POCSO to POCSO 1 on January 9, 2023. "I have since then produced 15 witnesses in this case, including those who said in the court that they have seen the accused near the house of the girl on the day of the incident, and also proved the evidence in the court," he added. "The court on Friday, under sections 363, 376 AB, 302, 201 0f the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and POCSO Act held the accused guilty and today sentenced him to death," the Advocate said further. (ANI) Chief Justice of Singapore Sundaresh Menon on Saturday delivered a lecture on "The Role of the Judiciary in a Changing World" to commemorate the 73rd anniversary of the Supreme Court of India and said that it is the "busiest court" in the world due to caseloads. Delivering the lecture, Chief Justice Menon said that we must "modernise" to deliver justice effortlessly as the world has immensely changed. He said that when the judiciary functions well it acts as a glue to hold the parts together. Justice Menon also highlighted various challenges that judicial systems around the world are facing or will face in the future and said that the global challenges would give rise to new legal issues. He also said that disputes are also becoming increasingly complex and highlighted two facets, technical complexity and evidential complexity. Further speaking on the emergence of truth decay, which is "spreading into court proceedings", the Chief Justice of Singapore referred to the proliferation of misinformation and devaluation of truth. He said that the judges should regard public communication as it plays a crucial role in writing social and economic structures. The Chief Justice of Singapore Sundaresh Menon on Friday called on President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan and exchanged views on ensuring accessible justice for all. The President and the Chief Justice of Singapore discussed the role of technology in ensuring accessible justice for all. In a tweet, the official Twitter account of Singapore in India wrote, "Chief Justice of Singapore Sundaresh Menon @SingaporeCourts had a warm call on President of India Droupadi Murmu @RashtrapatiBhvn earlier tdy where they exchanged views on how to ensure accessible justice for all, such as through greater outreach & better use of tech. - HC Wong." Notably, Justice Menon attended and watched the proceedings of the bench headed by Chief Justice of India (CJI) DY Chandrachud earlier that day. On November 6, 2012, Chief Justice Sundaresh Menon was named Chief Justice of the Supreme Court in Singapore. He is Singapore's first Chief Justice. Chief Justice Menon earned a Bachelor of Laws (First Class Honours) in 1986 from the National University of Singapore and a Master of Laws in 1991 from Harvard Law School. In 1987, he was admitted as an advocate and solicitor in Singapore, and in 1992, as an attorney and counsellor-at-law in New York, according to Singapore Government Agency Website, Singapore Courts, The Judiciary. He was a Supreme Court Judicial Commissioner from 2006 to 2007. In 2008, he was promoted to Senior Counsel and was appointed the 6th Attorney-General of Singapore in 2010, a position he resigned from shortly before his nomination as a Judge of Appeal in 2012. (ANI) Last month, in a big success for Gaya Police, a huge quantity of arms and cartridges including an AK-47 were recovered from the hideout of Naxalites, and pressure ID was also found. The Gaya Police had information about the presence of Naxalites in the southern area of the Gaya district for the last few days. Based on the received information, intensive raids were conducted by Gaya police, CoBRA and CRPF soldiers. After intensive search operations at various hideouts, a huge quantity of arms and cartridges including AK-47 were recovered from the hideout of Naxalites, pressure ID was also found. A large quantity of state-of-the-art weapons, magazines, pressure IDs and dozens of live cartridges have been recovered from the Ladunia Pahar, Karibadobha and Tikwathan areas of Chhakrabandha police station area. (ANI) The Delhi government demanded funds from the central government for the preparations related to G20 events in the national capital. Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia, who also holds the portfolio of the finance department, wrote a letter to Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman regarding the matter. Sisodia said that Delhi does not get any additional funds from the Centre, in such a situation Rs 927 crore should be given separately to Delhi for preparations related to G20. "It is a matter of great pleasure for India that this time India is hosting the G20 meeting. It is a matter of happiness for us Delhiites that most of the important activities of G20 are going to happen in Delhi only. The Government of Delhi will fully cooperate with the Government of India in the direction of making the organization of G-20 meeting a success," Sisodia wrote. Under the leadership of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, he said it will be the endeavour of the entire Delhi government that there should be no shortage in hosting the international guests who came to our place during the G20 meeting. "We will make sure that they return with unforgettable memories from Delhi as the capital of 21st-century India," he stressed. In this direction, the Deputy CM said various departments of the Delhi government have made a framework for organizing various activities and programs ranging from infrastructure development. In this, there are proposals for beautification of specific areas around the major venues of G20 and organizing some specific activities and programs on this occasion at prominent places in Delhi, he said. Demanding extra funds, Sisodia said that the Delhi government needs Rs 927 crore for the plans made for the special preparations for the G-20. Lieutenant Governor of Delhi Vinay Kumar Saxena is also constantly reviewing these efforts. The Lieutenant Governor has also given consent to all these efforts and programs for the preparations for the G20, he said. "You already know that no money is being given by the Government of India to the Delhi Government as a share in central taxes. Nor is any additional grant given to the Delhi Government by the Government of India. Even the amount given to the municipal corporations of all the states of the country according to their population, is not given to the Municipal Corporation of Delhi. In such a situation, it is obvious that it will not be easy for the Delhi government to spend Rs 927 crores to prepare the G20 meeting with its regular limited resources," Sisodia wrote. "So I request you that considering the importance of the G-20 meeting and in Delhi Keeping in view the need for preparations to make this event a success, Rs 927 crore required for this should be made available by the Central Government. This will help the Delhi government to implement all these schemes and programs smoothly and all the preparations will be completed in time. I have full hope that the Delhi government will get positive cooperation from you in this direction" Sisodia concluded. India assumed the G20 Presidency from Indonesia on December 1, 2022, and will convene the G20 Leaders' Summit for the first time in the country this year. The theme for G20 is 'One Earth. One Family. One Future' with the motto of "Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam". The G20 or Group of 20 is the one of world's leading platforms for international economic cooperation. The G20 was founded in 1999 after the Asian financial crisis as a forum for Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors to discuss global economic and financial issues. The G20 or Group of is made up of 19 countries and the European Union. The 19 countries are Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, Germany, France, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, the Republic of Korea, Mexico, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Turkiye, the United Kingdom and the United States of America. This year's G20 summit is also attended by nine guest countries as well as the invited International Organisations. (ANI) The order dated January 12, was issued by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (Coastal Regulation Zone) in which it notified the Maharashtra State Pollution Control Board to realise environmental compensation from Sai Resort situated in Ratnagiri. The order notified Parab to pay the environmental compensation within 15 days of the issue of that order, i.e. January 12. The BJP leader Somaiya has shared the order today stating, "The government started attachments process of Anil Parab properties to recover Rs 2.5 crore (2,52,50,000) penalties for illegal construction of Sai Resort." In 2021, Somaiya has lodged a complaint with Union Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar against Maharashtra Minister Parab alleging his involvement in forgery, fraud and construction of Rs 10 crore illegal Sai Resort in Ratnagiri. "Anil Parab indulged into forgery, fraud and constructed the Rs 10 crore illegal Sai Resort at Dapoli, Ratnagiri. Though the land is agricultural, construction was done during the covid-19 lockdown. V demand Criminal Action against Shivsena Minister Anil Parab," Somaiya tweeted on May 19, 2021. In a statement issued on May 19, the BJP leaders said, "Maharashtra Minister Anil Parab has constructed Rs 10 crore Sai resort at the seashore of Murud, Dapoli in district Ratnagiri. Somaiya visited the site on May 6 and lodged a complaint with the District Collector and Union Environment Minister." BJP lawmakers Gopal Shetty, Girish Bapat, and Manoj Kotak, also wrote to Javadekar requesting him to send a special environment team to see the violation under Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ). The BJP alleged that Parab had not obtained any permission under the CRZ or any other legal permission for the construction. "The state minister tried to get the resort legalised by forging the documents after May 11 after the expose of the issue. The resort was built during the 2020 covid-19 induced lockdown," the BJP leaders added in the statement. The BJP leaders demanded action against the then Transport and Parliamentary Affairs Minister and immediate demolition of the resort. (ANI) The probe agency has asked Sawai about Rs 23.54 lakh allegedly given to Gokhale, officials said.Gokhale had told the probe agency that money was given to him by Sawai. Gokhale was arrested by the agency in Gujarat on January 25 in connection with a money laundering case related to alleged misuse of crowdfunded money. After arrest, Gokhale was produced in court in Ahmedabad which granted ED five-day remand.The TMC leader has been lodged in jail after he has arrested by the Cyber Crime Branch of Ahmedabad Police from Delhi on December 30 last year in connection with the alleged misappropriation of crowdfunded money. Earlier, Gokhale was arrested by the Gujarat Police on December 6 for "spreading fake news" related to the money spent on Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Morbi in Gujarat after the suspension bridge collapse tragedy. (ANI) Union Home Affairs Minister and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah on Saturday said that with the recently released Union Budget 2023-24, the Centre has made provisions and allocated adequete fund for the registration of over 2 lakh multi-dimensional Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS). He said that the PACS have been created to ensure that there remains no 'panchayat' which would lack a dairy or a fishery cooperative society. "To promote cooperation, PM Modi has introduced several schemes in the Union Budget. The previous tax of 26 per cent which was used to be levied on cooperation in the field of production, has now been lowered to 15 per cent. We have also constituted a Ministry of Cooperation to check which all panchayats lack milk and fisheries society," Shah said. Amit Shah was addressing a function after laying the foundation stone of a nano urea plant of the Indian Farmers Fertiliser Cooperative (IFFCO) in Jharkhand's Deoghar, and said, "After the formation of the Ministry of Cooperation, we set up a data bank for Cooperatives across the country to identify which Panchayats do not have PACs, dairy, or, a Fishery cooperative society. Hence, after five years, there will be no panchayat that does not have a PACS." He said that land conversation has been one of the prime objectives of Prime Minister Narendra Modi ever since he came to power to govern the country, and that such measures would help India become self-reliant. He further advised the farmers to use natural manures instead of chemical fertilisers as they ruin the soil fertility. "From today's programme, I only want to tell the farmers that excessive use of chemical urea will do nothing but damage your crops as well as the soil. However, if you use the natural urea, the IFFCO guarantees a rise in crop productivity," Shah said. "The Nano urea has been created with the research intended to protect Mother Earth as when the chemical fertilisers seep into the earth, it kills earthworm which is known to make natural manure. By using the natural manure, you can prevent your soil from intoxication as well," added Shah. Amit Shah embarked his visit to the state by offering prayers at the Baba Baidyanath temple with his wife. This is the second visit of Amit Shah within a time span of one month. Amit Shah visited Jharkhand's capital Ranchi on January 6 and held the party's core group meeting and a public rally in Chaibasa on January 7. The Minister's visit to Jharkhand is crucial in view of the 2024 parliamentary elections besides the 2024 Assembly elections. (ANI) Flash The administration of U.S. President Joe Biden announced Friday an additional round of security assistance for Ukraine with a total value of 2.2 billion U.S. dollars. The latest package was divided into two parts - 425 million dollars through the Presidential Drawdown Authority, and 1.75 billion dollars from the congressionally-approved Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative, according to a statement from the Defense Department. What's particularly noticeable in the materiel are long-range rockets for High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems, or HIMARS missile launchers that the United States have provided for Ukraine. The new rockets are GPS-guided Ground-Launched Small Diameter Bombs (GLSDB) with a range of roughly 90 miles, more than doubling the 40-mile range that previous U.S.-provided HIMARS-compatible missiles have. The GLSDB's range, however, falls short compared to that of the Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS), which has long been sought by Ukraine but refused by the United States for fear of escalation of the Russia-Ukraine conflict. The ATACMS has a range of nearly 200 miles. The U.S. government will contract with weapons manufacturers to provide the GLSDB, as well as two HAWK air defense firing units and unspecified "equipment to integrate Western air defense launchers, missiles, and radars with Ukraine's air defense systems." That means it will be months away from the actual delivery of these weapons. The United Sates has committed more than 29.3 billion dollars in security assistance for Ukraine since the Russia-Ukraine conflict broke out nearly a year ago, according to the Pentagon's statement. Officials said the arrest was made on Friday in connection with a case registered by the state police's Special Task Force (STF) last year. The member identified as Wasid Khan, a Sheopur district resident of Madhya Pradesh, absconded in the case registered at STF. "PFI member Wasid Khan (26), a resident of Sheopur, was arrested under Indian Penal Code (IPC) sections 121A (conspiracy to wage war against govt), 153B (assertions prejudicial to national integration) and 120B (criminal conspiracy) besides the provisions of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act," officials said. Khan was associated with the PFI and had been attending the organisation's various programmes and secret meetings since 2017. "He used to participate in secret meetings of PFI and was in contact with senior officials of the organisation," the official said. After the arrest, he was produced before the court which sent him to police remand till February 8. Notably, the Centre had banned PFI in September last year and some members of the Social Democratic Party of India were arrested from Old Bhopal (Shahjehanabad) for being suspected of being in touch with the PFI. (ANI) Odisha Leader of Opposition (LoP) and senior BJP leader Jayanarayan Mishra gave up his personal security officer (PSO) on Saturday, claiming he has lost faith in the Odisha police in the wake of the murder of Odisha minister Naba Kishor Das in presence of security personnel. "I don't have trust in Odisha Police. I gave up the PSO appointed by the state government for my protection. I will not avail any protection from Odisha Police," Mishra told ANI. "I am upset with the manner in which they're working. PSOs are of no use," Mishra added. Mishra claimed that ECG reports from Jharsuguda hospital indicated that Health Minister Naba Kishor Das died on the spot after sustaining a bullet injury. "Later a drama was staged to delay the announcement of his death," Mishra claimed. Meanwhile, the special investigating team (SIT) probing minister Naba Das' murder on Thursday recovered handwritten notes of accused ASI Gopal Das from a septic tank of Jharsuguda Airport police station. The CID and Crime Branch team in a statement said that the accused ASI during questioning revealed that he threw handwritten notes in a septic tank of the toilet of Jharsunguda Airport police station and that he had noted down his motives behind the crime in detail on the paper. The recovered pieces of handwritten papers will be sent to forensics and handwriting experts for the reconstruction of evidence and further examination, the Crime Branch said. The preserved viscera of the deceased have also been sent to the State Forensic Science Laboratory (SFSL), Rasulgarh in Bermuda Biological Station for Research (BBSR) for chemical examination and opinion, it said. The Scientific Officer and Ballistic Experts also recovered one fired bullet during the inspection of the vehicle and the crime spot using a FARO 3-D Scanner. A medical team led by DSP and CID Crime Branch at Berhampur is verifying the medical treatment records and financial behaviour of the accused. The team is also interrogating those related to the accused to ascertain the plea advanced by him. In connection to this, the accused's elder brother was also interrogated, the crime branch said. The Crime Branch further informed that the Additional DG of Police and CID Crime Odisha are camping at the spot. They are personally monitoring and supervising the investigation of the case. Naba Das had been the Health and Family Welfare Minister of Odisha since 2019. He was a three-time MLA from the Jharsuguda constituency and was said to be an influential leader in the area. Naba Das was shot at in Brajarajnagar in the Jharsuguda district and succumbed to his bullet injuries in Bhubaneswar hospital on Sunday. During the operation, it was found that a single bullet had entered and exited the body, injuring the heart and left lung and causing massive internal bleeding and injury. The Odisha government has written to the Odisha High Court requesting for a sitting/retired HC judge or district judge to monitor the Crime Branch probe into the murder of Health Minister Naba Kishore Das, as the accused is a police personnel. (ANI) Chief Justice of India (CJI) DY Chandrachud on Saturday said that for a court, every case is important and there are no big or small cases and also highlighted that the top court heard over three lakh cases during COVID-19 pandemic time. Addressing a gathering to commemorate the 73rd anniversary of the Supreme Court of India, the CJI said, "For the Court, there are no big or small cases -every matter is important. Because it is in the seemingly small and routine matters involving the grievances of citizens that issues of constitutional and jurisprudential importance emerge. In attending to such grievances, the Court performs a plain constitutional duty, obligation, and function." CJI Chandrachud made these remarks while addressing a gathering to commemorate the 73rd anniversary of the Supreme Court of India. Chief Justice of Singapore Supreme Court Sundaresh Menon also attended the program and delivered a lecture on "The Role of the Judiciary in a Changing World". Chandrachud also mentioned how the court adopted innovative techniques to reach out to people, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic and said, "Between March 23, 2020, and October 31, 2022, the top court alone heard 3.37 lakh cases through video conferencing." He also mentioned that the court is allowing hybrid mode now to attend proceedings from any corner. "In the recent budget, the Government of India announced the provision of Rs 7000 crore for phase III of the e-Courts project," CJI said. He further said that this will help to enhance the accessibility of the judicial institutions and improve the efficiency of the justice delivery system in India. "Such endeavours will ensure that the Court truly reaches out to every citizen of our country," he said. Quoting the first Chief Justice of India HJ Kania, CJI said that the Supreme Court would play an important role in building up the nation. He also said that in the past few years, the Court has furthered the transformative vision of the Constitution by recognizing and protecting fundamental rights such as the right to privacy, decisional autonomy, and sexual and reproductive choices. Chandrachud said that the court has emerged as a strong proponent of gender equality whether it be in its interpretation of the laws of inheritance or securing the entry of women in the armed forces. CJI also highlighted the guidelines related to the death penalty and the various mitigating and aggravating circumstances that a judge should take into account before awarding the death sentence and psychiatric assessment of death row convicts-humanising influence on the law. Thus, the Court has sought to use the language of the Constitution to humanize law and act as the protector and defender of fundamental rights and liberties, CJI said. CJI also mentioned about the significant changes relating to the adoption of legislation such as the Competition Law and Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code. Recalling the foundation of the SC, he said that the Supreme Court came into being on 28 January 1950, two days after India adopted its Constitution and became an independent Sovereign Republic, and now it serves the world's most populous democracy and is in true aspects a 'people's court' because it is a collective heritage of the people of India. (ANI) The BSF achieved success during a joint operation carried out in close coordination with Rajasthan Police in the general area of Srikaranpur of the Sriganganagar sector on the India-Pakistan International Border (IB). The BSF personnel shot down the drone in the joint operation soon after it crossed the IB to smuggle narcotics into Indian territory. "During the intervening night of February 3-4, 2023, alert BSF troops deployed on Indo-Pak International Border in General area Srikaranpur of Sector Sriganganagar, in a Joint Ops with Police shot down a Pak drone which entered into India side of IB to smuggle Narcotics," said the BSF in a statement. During the search, the force said, one Pakistani drone and two bags containing six packets of suspected narcotics weighing approximately 6 kg have been recovered by BSF troops. The BSF got success, a day after Pakistani drone was shot down which crossed the International Border and intruded in Punjab's Amritsar. The drone was shot by the BSF personnel on the intervening night of 2nd-3rd February 2023 at about 2.30 am which had intruded in the area of responsibility of Border Outpost Rear Kakkar in Amritsar Sector (Punjab). That drone was recovered near the border fence and zero line, and a packet of 5kg heroin was also recovered with the drone. The BSF is responsible to guard the 3,323 km India-Pakistan border. (ANI) Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) National President JP Nadda on Saturday appointed Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and K Annamalai as the incharge and co-incharge for the upcoming assembly elections in Karnataka. In an official party order dated February 4, the party General Secretary announced that the appointments made by the National President comes into immediate effect. BJP leader Dharmendra Pradhan is the Union Minister of Education and Minister of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship while K Annamalai is the Tamil Nadu BJP president. For the Karnataka elections, which is likely to be held before May, the BJP has put its focus on outreach and public rallies to strengthen its base in the southern state. Two weeks ago, an important source of BJP stated, "On the one hand, work is being done to reorganize and restructure the booth committee, so that the booth committee becomes more strong, on the other hand 'Booth Vijay Abhiyan', 'Janaspandana Rally', 'Jana Sangathan Yatra' are going on to ensure BJP's victory in Karnataka and the party leaders are continuously interacting with people through these rallies." The source further said that the "Booth Vijay Rally" was organised from January 2 to January 12 and with this BJP flags have been hoisted in at least 25 houses under each booth area. So after the success of the first phase, the same second phase of Booth Vijay Abhiyan will start from 20 January. Apart from the Vijay booth campaign, Jan Spandan Yatra is going on across the state by the Chief Minister. Along with this, Jan Sangathan Yatra is being done under the leadership of the state president, in which the state in-charge is also participating. "Different rallies are also being organised of which rallies of OBC, ST and farmers have been held. Rallies are being held keeping different communities in mind. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah, BJP National President JP Nadda and other top BJP leaders have also visited the state. BL Santosh is also visiting continuously. Soon BJP will also hold programs for Banjara community," the sources said. Last month, Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Karnataka and did a road show in Hubli. (ANI) Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu, on Saturday announced to develop of Gasota Mahadev Temple from the point of view of increasing religious tourism in the state. Addressing a huge public meeting organized at Gandhi Chowk in Hamirpur, Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu said that the state government would take concrete and meaningful steps for the all-round development of the Hamirpur district. He said that medical equipment with world-class technology would be made available at Dr Radhakrishnan Medical College, Hamirpur so that the best facilities could be provided to the people of the area. He said that after the completion of this college, people will not have to go to AIIMS, Tanda, Shimla's Indira Gandhi Medical College (IGMC) and other private hospitals for treatment. He also announced the opening of a Nursing College in the Medical College. The Chief Minister said that proper provision of funds would be made in the budget to construct a new bus stand in Hamirpur. He also announced the opening of an indoor stadium with modern facilities at Hamirpur. He said that Gasota Mahadev Temple would be developed from the point of view of religious tourism and possibilities would be explored to open Veterinary College in Taal. Sukhu said that the State Government was taking effective steps to make Himachal the most developed State of the country and several ambitious schemes and programs were being implemented. He said that in the very first meeting of the cabinet, the present government restored the old pension fulfilling the demand of 1.36 lakh employees of the state. The process has also started to provide Rs 1500 per month to women. The Chief Minister said that we have fulfilled what we said. The state government will fulfil all its promises in a phased manner. He said that a provision of one thousand crore rupees would be made to strengthen the rural economy. The government will buy cow's milk from farmers at the rate of Rs.80 per litre and buffalo's milk at the rate of Rs.100 per litre. He said that he has not come to enjoy power, but to change the system and everyone's cooperation is expected in this. The economic condition of Himachal Pradesh can be strengthened only by collective efforts. The Chief Minister said that the people of the State are his family and the State Government is working day and night to take Himachal to new heights of development. He said that he has been associated with public service for more than 40 years and is well aware of the happiness and sorrow of the people. He said that the government has been working for the upliftment of the downtrodden since the very first day of its formation. The age for taking care of orphan children has been increased to 27 years and they will also be given four biswa (5400 Square Feet) of land to build a house. Along with this, the government will also bear the expenses of their higher education. Earlier, Chief Minister Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu paid homage to the statue of the Father of the Nation Mahatma Gandhi. On arrival in the home district of Chief Minister Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu, the crowd gathered in Hamirpur warmly welcomed him. On this occasion, people from the Hamirpur district and other areas raised slogans and showered flowers in support of the Chief Minister. MLA Hamirpur Ashish Sharma welcomed Chief Minister Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu and presented him with a memento. He said that the people of the state are with the government to fulfil the resolve of the Chief Minister to change the system. MLA from Bhoranj constituency Suresh Kumar said that Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu is a new ray of hope for the development of the state. He said that the state government was working with commitment to provide transparent, fair and accountable administration. MLA from Badsar assembly constituency Indra Dutt Lakhanpal said that the life of Thakur Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu is an example of struggle and public service. The Chief Minister communicates directly with the general public and ensures that their problems are resolved on the spot. He welcomed the decision of the state government to promote electric vehicles. Political Advisor to Chief Minister Sunil Sharma and Chairman Kangra Cooperative Bank Kuldeep Singh Pathania also spoke on the occasion. Former MLA Anita Verma, Manjit Dogra, Congress leader Prem Kaushal, Pushpinder Verma, Rajendra Jar, Deputy Commissioner Devshweta Banik, Superintendent of Police Aakriti Sharma, office bearers of the organization and a large number of people were present on the occasion. (ANI) Talking to reporters, here on Saturday, the Congress leader said, "During the pandemic, everyone in the nation had a reduction in income but some industrialists saw a rise in their market capitalization." "Industry and market were closed, then how they increased their market capitalization. BJP is receiving unaccounted money," he alleged. He further stated that the Hindenburg research papers have "exposed" Gautam Adani. "Whosoever is close to PM Modi and Amit Shah, gets benefits, and tax rates are increased as well as decreased for their profit. Same is being done for Gautam Adani. Rahul Gandhi said Adani's wealth bubble will burst. Hindenburg research papers have exposed Adani," he further said. He said that the share market has been affected and the investors are suffering because of the losses in Gautam Adani's shares. "People in the country who bought Adani's share have suffered a loss. The share market is affected as investors who had invested in Adani's shares pulled out. SBI had low percentage in Adani shares, but LIC which has common man's money had a huge loss," he added. A report by a US-based Hindenburg Research surfaced on January 24, claiming that the Adani Group had weak business fundamentals, and was involved in stock manipulation and accounting fraud, among others. The report triggered a sell-off of shares of all Adani Group companies. Earlier in the day, Digivijay Singh was granted bail by the Bhopal district court in a defamation case filed by BJP state president VD Sharma. BJP leader VD Sharma had filed a defamation case against the former Congress Chief Minister after Singh accused Sharma of being a part of the 2013 Vyapam scam. (ANI) New Delhi [India], February 4 (ANI) The Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) on Saturday ordered a Court of Inquiry to find out the reason behind the act of an Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI) of the force who shot himself dead with his service weapon while on duty at the residence of Director Intelligence Bureau in the national capital. The 53-year-old ASI of the CRPF, identified as Rajbir Kumar shot two rounds at himself from his service revolver on Friday evening at around 4.15 pm, while he was deployed at the residence of IB Director under the Tughlaq Road Police Station limits of the national capital. A top CRPF official told ANI that "a Court of Inquiry has been ordered" into the incident to find out the exact cause which led ASI Rajbir to shoot himself. The body of the deceased security personnel has been sent for autopsy and no suicide note has been recovered from the spot, said the police, which is also investigating the cause behind the act. The district forensic crime team was called to recover fingerprints from the spot. The family of the deceased CRPF personnel who hailed from Madhya Pradesh has been informed, and inquest proceedings under CrPC Section 174 have also been initiated. As per the data available, in the paramilitary forces, there were 123 suicides in 2017, 96 In 2018 and 129 in 2019. The figure stood at 137 in 2020 and at an all-time high of 153 Suicide cases In 2021 with 58 cases reported by the CRPF. (ANI) Gwalior Police arrested a man in connection with an alleged drug smuggling case from Ratlam district in Madhya Pradesh, a police official said on Saturday. The accused has been identified as Vivek Porwal (around 38 years old) and he is a Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader. The police arrested him from a shop in Dhodhar area, Ratlam district on Friday late evening. Earlier on September 23, 2022, the Gwalior police had confiscated a large quantity of weed from a truck. The truck was going to Indore district in Madhya Pradesh from Dimapur city in Nagaland. During investigation of the case, when the police interrogated the truck owner then it was revealed that Porwal had ordered the weed. On the basis of transactions and conversation, the police made him accused in the case. Additional Superintendent of Police (ASP) Gajendra Singh Vardhaman said, "Three months ago, Mohana police station had taken a major action under NDPS act ( Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances) in which they confiscated 1.9 quintals weed from a truck. Two accused were also arrested in the matter at that time." "During the interrogation of the case, the arrested accused told the police that Vivek Porwal had placed the order by giving them money and they were carrying the consignment. The police had sent both the accused to jail them three months ago itself. Porwal, whose name was revealed during investigation of the case, was absconding for a long time and now the police arrested him from Ratlam." ASP Vardhaman said. Further investigation into the matter is underway, he added. (ANI) The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Saturday appointed Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya as its co-incharge for the upcoming Karnataka assembly elections. Earlier in the day, the party announced the appointment of Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan appointed as the incharge and Tamil Nadu BJP president K Annamalai appointed as the co-incharge for the Karnataka election. The Karnataka elections are likely to be held in April-May 2023. "National President Jagat Prakash Nadda has appointed Dharmendra Pradhan, Education, Skill Development & Entrepreneurship Minister, Government of India as election incharge for the forthcoming Assembly Elections of Karnataka State. Mansukh Mandaviya Minister of Health & Family Welfare, Chemicals Fertilizers and K Annamalai, State President, Tamil Nadu have been appointed as eection co-incharge for the same. This appointment comes into immediate effect," the BJP said in a statement. In January, Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Karnataka and undertook a roadshow in Hubli. Last month, Nadda visited Karnataka to take stock of the election preparations, while Union Home Minister Amit Shah will visit Karnataka on February 11. Shah will be visiting Puttur in Dakshina Kannada district to participate in a cooperative convention. The party expects Shah to strengthen the party organization and resolve internal issues currently prevailing in the unit, so that the party is able to retain its power in the South-Indian state. Earlier, Shah referred to Karnataka as the 'gateway to the south' through his public speeches. Amit Shah had stressed that the BJP needs to strengthen its organization in the southern part of the country and said that Karnataka is the "gateway" to the South for the party. Notably, Karnataka is the only southern state where the BJP is in power. It is pertinent to mention that the party made a leadership change in July 2018, replacing the then-chief minister BS Yeddyurappa with Basavaraj Bommai. Even though Yeddyurappa is no longer in power, former chief minister is the tallest Lingayat leader. Lingayats are the single largest community in Karnataka, account for nearly 17 per cent of the population, mostly in the north Karnataka region, and has traditionally voted for the BJP.He was recently appointed a member of the party's top organizational body--the parliamentary board. The Karnataka Assembly elections are due in April-May to elect all 224 members of the Legislative Assembly. (ANI) Flash Russian President Vladimir Putin vowed a decisive response on Thursday to any country threatening Russia, and lashed out against Germany for promising tanks to Kyiv. His threats came after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky alleged that the Kremlin was consolidating its forces for a fresh offensive. Zelensky was speaking in Kyiv beside the European Union's chief Ursula von der Leyen, who said the bloc was looking to finalize fresh sanctions against Russia by Feb 24, exactly one year after the conflict broke out. At a ceremony commemorating the Red Army's victory against Nazi troops 80 years ago in the southern Russian city of Volgograd, Putin said it is unbelievable that Russia is once again being threatened by German tanks. "We have something to respond with," he said. "A modern war with Russia will be completely different." Ukraine secured promises from the West this month for deliveries of modern battle tanks to fight Russian forces, and Kyiv is now asking for long-range missiles and fighter jets. Putin has insisted that Russia is weathering the barrage of sanctions imposed by Ukraine's Western allies and will continue its special military operation in Ukraine. But von der Leyen said sanctions were already "eroding" Russia's economy, "throwing it back by a generation". She estimated that an existing oil price cap alone was costing Moscow around 160 million euros ($174 million) every day. Key summit "We will introduce with our G7 partners an additional price cap on Russian petroleum products and by the 24th of February ... we aim to have the 10th package of sanctions in place," she said. Von der Leyen arrived in Kyiv on Thursday with the bloc's most senior diplomat, Josep Borrell, ahead of a Ukraine-EU summit on Friday in Kyiv, which is seeking EU membership. Zelensky said his country deserved to start accession talks this year to "give energy and motivation to our people to fight". But EU leaders said the process could take many years. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov claimed the EU, and specifically von der Leyen, had called for Russia to be defeated, so its economy would be devastated. "Is this not racism, not Nazism?" Lavrov said. Lavrov's comments echoed Putin, who has frequently drawn parallels between what he calls Moscow's special military operation in Ukraine and the Soviet war against Nazi Germany. Moscow launched the military operation last year, saying that Russia needed to "denazify" Ukraine. Von der Leyen's trip also came one day after Kyiv raided the homes of an oligarch and public officials, as part of efforts to ease Western concerns about graft. "I'm comforted to see that your anti-corruption bodies are on alert and effective," von der Leyen said. Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Bhupender Yadav on Saturday launched the 'Save Wetlands Campaign' in the presence of Chief Minister of Goa, Pramod Sawant. This campaign is structured on a "whole of society" approach to wetlands conservation, enabling affirmative actions for wetlands conservation at all levels of society and involving all strata of society. The campaign, over the next year, will include sensitizing people to the value of wetlands, increasing the coverage of wetlands and building citizen partnerships for wetlands conservation. Two publications were also released during the occasion, 'India's 75 Amrit Dharohar- India's Ramsar Sites Factbook' and 'Managing Climate Risks in Wetlands - A Practitioner's Guide. The Factbook is a one-stop resource of information on the 75 Ramsar Sites, including their values, threats they faced and management arrangements. Meanwhile, the practitioner's Guide on Climate Risk Assessment provides step-wise guidance on assessing the site-level climate risks and integration of adaptation and mitigation responses into the wetland management plan. Bhupendra Yadav interacted with wetlands managers of states and heard their experiences about achievements and challenges. In his address to the gathering present at the event, the Union Minister highlighted the critical role played by the wetland ecosystem in securing ecological, economic and climate security. He further mentioned various green initiatives taken by the Government in the Union Budget 2023 under the leadership of Prime Minister, Narendra Modi including Amrit Dharohar, MISHTI, PM PRANAM, Green credit and Green Growth aligned with Mission LiFE. Union Minister Yadav also emphasised the importance of strengthening communication, education, awareness and participation in wetlands conservation. The national celebrations of World Wetlands Day which concluded today saw the Union Minister of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Bhupender Yadav, Chief Minister of Goa, dignitaries from the Ministry of Environment Forest and Climate Change and the Government of Goa who visited the Nanda Lake. Nanda Lake is Goa's first Ramsar Site to oversee the conservation and management efforts. On this occasion, the Union Environment Minister unfurled the National Flag and unveiled the signboard of Nanda Lake. Chief Minister of Goa, Dr Pramod Sawant congratulated Government of India for the achievement of 75 Ramsar Sites in the 75th year of independence and for realising the dream of the Prime Minister. Sawant also thanked the Government of India for supporting the State in the designation of Nanda Lake as a Ramsar site and for giving Goa the opportunity to organise the event. He assured that Goa would continue to work towards achieving the goal of sustainable development. In line with the emphasis on participatory management of wetlands by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the mission and vision of the Sahbhagita Mission, based on an advisory issued by the Ministry, State Governments and UT administrations celebrated World Wetlands Day enthusiastically at all 75 Ramsar sites this year with over 200 events with the hoisting of flag at the Ramsar Sites. Over 50 activities including a drawing competition, quiz competition, exposure activities, and bird watching were organised for the students. The wetland pledge was administered during these events. The site-level celebrations were followed by a Regional Consultative Workshop for Restoration and Integrated Management of Wetlands held at Goa on February 3, 2023, which saw the participation of 48 representatives from 7 states namely Gujarat, Haryana, Punjab, Goa, Maharashtra, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh. This workshop, organised under Mission Sahbhagita, is a platform for sharing wetland management experiences, success stories, best practices as well challenges. Three roundtable discussions on mainstreaming LiFE Mission in wetland management, restoration and integrated management of wetlands, and youth engagement and outreach, were included in deliberations. World Wetlands Day is observed on February 2 every year worldwide to commemorate the signing of the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands of International Importance in 1971. India is a party to the Convention since 1982 and has so far declared 75 wetlands as Ramsar sites covering 23 states and Union Territories. The 2023 theme for World Wetlands Day is 'Wetland Restoration' which highlights the urgent need to prioritize wetland restoration. It calls on an entire generation to take proactive action for wetlands, by investing financial, human and political capital to save the wetlands from disappearing and to revive and restore those that have been degraded. India has the largest network of Ramsar Sites in Asia, making these sites a critical ecological network for the conservation of global biological diversity and supporting human well-being. The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) launched Mission Sahbhagita in 2022 with a mission of a healthy and effectively managed network of 75 wetlands of national and international significance which support water and food security; buffer from floods, droughts, cyclones and other extreme events; employment generation; conservation of species of local, national and international significance; climate change mitigation and adaptation actions; and recognition, conservation and celebration of cultural heritage.' (ANI) An auto driver named Anar Singh was stabbed to death by two of his passengers who tried to rob him on the intervening night of January 25-26, the police informed on Saturday. The two accused have been identified as Pawan and Vinod, the latter of whom was one of three accused in the Chhawla rape case, who was acquitted by the Supreme Court. DCP Dwarka M Harshawardhan told ANI that both the accused have been arrested. "An auto driver was stabbed to death in the Dwarka area on the intervening night of 25-26 January by two accused passengers, Pawan and Vinod who tried to rob him. During the probe it was found Vinod was recently acquitted by Supreme Court in the Chhawla rape case," he said. On the Chhawla rape case, DCP said that they have also filed a review petition in the Supreme Court. "We strongly believe that there is sufficient ground for review of the decision, and we have also filed a review petition in the Supreme Court," he added. The deceased's brother Arvind Pal said that if the accused is not given harsh punishment, then other criminals will also lose the fear of the law. "We came to know that one of the accused who killed my brother had raped and killed a girl in Chhawla in 2012. But the court acquitted him, and then he killed my brother. I want to know, how was he released? I want him to be hanged", he said. The accused's cousin Vinay demanded the government to support the deceased's children. "I request the government to provide help to Anar Singh's children. He used to drive an auto for Rs 300 per day, used to live with the family on 7000 rent, and used to eat food only once a day. What will happen to their children now? The court will punish the accused but who will take care of the deceased's children?" he said. Talking on the matter, the Chhwala rape victim's father told ANI that if the accused would have been hanged earlier, the victim auto driver would have been alive. "My daughter was kidnapped, raped and killed. It's 11 years to the incident, but I am still fighting the case. The HC sentenced them to death but the SC acquitted them. If the accused who were to be hanged, will be released like this, it will embolden the criminals. If they would have been hanged, then the poor man wouldn't have got killed. I want the accused too be hanged as soon as possible," he said. The Chhawla case pertains to the alleged abduction, gang-rape, and murder of a 19-year-old girl from Uttarakhand's Pauri by three men in the Chhawla area of the national capital's Dwarka on February 9, 2012. In the said case, the Supreme Court, on November 7, 2022, acquitted the three accused, setting aside the Delhi High Court judgement awarding life sentences to the trio. (ANI) In an apparent reference to the Adani group, the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) on Monday said "that unusual price movement in the stocks of a business conglomerate" has been observed during the past week and that it is committed to ensuring market integrity. A SEBI press release said that the Indian financial market as represented by Sensex and Nifty has demonstrated ongoing stability and is continuing to function in a transparent, fair and efficient manner. SEBI said on a longer-term basis also, Indian markets have been viewed positively by investors. A cross-country comparison of dollar-adjusted market returns with both peer and developed countries during the past three years till date, places "the Indian Market as a positive outlier," the regulatory body said. "During the past week, unusual price movement in the stocks of a business conglomerate has been observed. As part of its mandate, SEBI seeks to maintain the orderly and efficient functioning of the market and has put in place a set of well-defined, publicly available surveillance measures (including the ASM framework) to address excessive volatility in specific stocks. "This mechanism gets automatically triggered under certain conditions of price volatility in any stock," the statement said. SEBI said that in all specific entity-related matters, if any information comes to its notice, then it is examined as per policies and appropriate action is taken after due examination. "SEBI has consistently followed this approach on entity-level issues and would continue to do so in future as well. SEBI is committed to ensuring market integrity and to ensuring that the markets continue to have the appropriate structural strength to function in an uninterrupted, transparent and efficient manner as has been the case so far," the statement said. Adani group stocks had witnessed a crash following Hindenburg Research report. Reserve Bank of India had said on Friday that according to its current assessment, the banking sector remains resilient and stable. The central bank had said it maintains a constant vigil on the sector and on individual banks with a view to maintain financial stability. Without naming the Adani Group, RBI said in a statement that there have been media reports expressing concern about the exposures of Indian banks to a business conglomerate. "As per the RBI's current assessment, the banking sector remains resilient and stable. Various parameters relating to capital adequacy, asset quality, liquidity, provision coverage and profitability are healthy. Banks are also in compliance with the Large Exposure Framework (LEF) guidelines issued by the RBI," the statement said. The central bank said it remains vigilant and continues to monitor the stability of the Indian banking sector. State Bank of India (SBI) chairman Dinesh Khara had said the bank's total exposure amounting to Rs 27,000 crore in Adani Group is 0.88 per cent of its loan book. "We have lent to Adani (group) for projects having tangible assets and adequate cash. They have met obligations...our total exposure to Adani group is 0.88 per cent as of December 31," he said at a press conference. Khara added those loans were against assets or businesses that are cash-generating, and the bank does not see any challenge. "There's no cause for concern for us," he added. Opposition parties forced adjournments in both Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha over the Hindenburg-Adani group row on Thursday and Friday. They have sought discussion over investment by LIC, Public Sector Banks, and financial institutions "in companies losing market value, endangering the savings of crores of Indians" following a report by US-based short seller Hidenburg Research which has made allegations against some companies of Adani group. The Adani group had termed the report "nothing but a lie". (ANI) The Supreme Court of India on Saturday clears the appointments of five new Judges. The Supreme Court collegium had recommended their names in December for elevation from High Courts to the Apex court. After the new appointments, the working strength of the Supreme Court increased to 32. On the appointment, Law and Justice Minister Kiren Rijiju extended the best wishes to all newly appointed judges. He tweeted that, as per the provisions under the Constitution of India, the President of India has appointed the following Chief Justices and Judges of the High Courts as Judges of the Supreme Court. I extend best wishes to all of them. List of Judges elevated to the Supreme Court are Justices Pankaj Mithal (Rajasthan High Court Chief Justice), Sanjay Karol (Patna High Court Chief Justice), PV Sanjay Kumar (Manipur High Court Chief Justice), Ahsanuddin Amanullah (Patna High Court judge), and Manoj Misra (Allahabad High Court Judge). Attorney General R Venkataramani on Friday apprised the top court that the Central Government will soon clear the name of the five judges recommended by the Supreme Court collegium in December for elevation from High Courts to the top court. AG R Venkataramani submission came in response to the court's queries regarding the status of the pending recommendations. On December 13, 2022, the Collegium recommended five names for appointment as Judges of the Supreme Court, namely Justice Pankaj Mithal, Justice Sanjay Karol, Justice PV Sanjay Kumar, Justice Ahsanuddin Amanullah, and Justice Manoj Misra. The Supreme Court earlier expressed its concern on the issue of keeping the list of the transfers of judges of the high courts pending with the Centre and warned that delay in transfers might lead to administrative actions which may not be palatable. A bench headed by justice Sanjay Kishan Kaul said that the transfer is a serious issue. The court also said that it will not let third parties clear names in this and warned that it doesn't make the court take a difficult stand. "We have put to the Attorney General that any delay in this may lead to administrative actions which might not be palatable," the court said. The court was hearing the petition against the Centre for keeping the Collegium-recommended names of judges for their appointment in the various High Courts and Supreme Court pending. (ANI) Rajasthan to soon have a 2000 Megawatt (MW) solar park, new power plants to be established in Chhabra and Kalisindh informed the Chairman and Managing Director of Rajasthan Vidyut Utpadan Nigam here on Saturday. Rajasthan has been facing an acute power crisis due to the scarcity of coal in the state. Now the Rajasthan Vidyut Utpadan Nigam is working towards setting up a lignite-based power plant. By issuing an order, the government extended Rajasthan Vidyut Utpadan Nigam chairman and managing director RK Sharma's tenure by one year. Sharma said that his priority would be to work faster in the direction of setting up a 2000 MW solar park as well as new power plants in Chhabra of Baran district of Rajasthan and near the Kalisindh river. Talking to ANI, he said, "Out of the 2000 MW solar park that the state government had earlier decided to set up, Rajasthan Vidyut Utpadan Nigam has to set up an 810 MW solar park and work is going on fast for that." Similarly, 600-600 MW ultra-solar critical plants will be set up in Chhabra. The same 800-megawatt ultra-solar power plant is also to be set up in Kalisindh of the Jhalawar region. Similarly, land acquisition work is going on for setting up a lignite-based power plant in Ghoda. CMD of Production Corporation RK Sharma said that Rajasthan had to face the problem of electricity amid the coal crisis in the past. In such a situation, our focus is that there is abundant lignite in Rajasthan. In such a situation, if lignite-based power plants are installed in Rajasthan, there will be no problem regarding production in the power plant. He said that the production corporation is working in this direction on priority. In December last year, the Minister of Power in Rajasthan, Bhanwar Singh Bhati said that the state is not able to obtain coal as per the requirement. Addressing a session with the Congress party, The Congress leader said, "Rajasthan is not able to get coal as per its requirement, because of which the issue of power cuts is happening in the state." He further said that the quality of coal from Odisha is not up to the mark. "The coal that we get from Odisha, is not just too remote but is also not good in quality. Also, we are not able to do coal mining because of public outrage in Chhattisgarh. So, we are tempted to use the coal from Odisha," he added. (ANI) A huge cache of arms and ammunition were recovered in a joint operation conducted by Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel and Assam Police in Assam's Nalbari area. Sudhakar Singh, Superintendent of Police of Nalbari district told ANI that, during the search operation, the security personnel had recovered a huge cache of arms and ammunition buried under the earth. "We have recovered 4 small arms, 2 Air pistols, 3 AK magazines, 4 Pistol magazines, 79 rounds of AK ammunition, 6 rounds of 9mm ammunition, 10 rounds of 7.62 mm ammunition, 12 rounds of .22 ammunition, five Detonators, 4 Country made ammunition, 600 grams of Unidentified explosive substance from the area," Sudhakar Singh said. "Based on the information given by Army intelligence and CRPF intelligence, a search operation was conducted by police and CRPF in a jungle area near Sengnoi village under Nalbari police station on Saturday," an official said. "Prima Facie, it appears, that suspected militants had buried the arms and ammunition in the jungle area," the official added. Meanwhile, in a similar incident in Jharakhand, CRPF personnel and Jharkhand Police recovered arms and ammunition on Friday after they nabbed a Naxal bunker in the Burha Pahar area. The Deputy Inspector General of Police Rajkumar Lakra while addressing the press said, "It is an extension of 'Operation Octopus' and was launched on January 31. Under this operation, the District Police, CRPF, 209 CoBRA and Jharkhand Jaguar nabbed one light machine gun (LMG) and some other ammunition. These arms were found on small pathways under in a bunker." While speaking about the 'Burha Pahar' area which is known for a Naxal base, DIG Lakra said, "The people of the villages that lie at the bottom of 'Burha Pahar', have faith in the administration now. Their belief in the system has enhanced and they are cooperating. " "Earlier we had busted a bunker in which heavy arms were seized including improvised explosive devices (IED). In January, this is a better recovery," added DIG Lakra. Earlier on Thursday, three personnel of the Central Reserve Police Force sustained injuries in an improvised explosive device (IED) blast on Thursday during a search operation in the forest area of Jokepani, Jharkhand, the CRPF officials said. According to CRPF officials, they have also recovered 4 rifles, including LMG and the Jharkhand police. "A search operation was launched by the joint team of 209 CoBRA and Jharkhand Police in the forest area of Jokepani, Nawatoli, Latehar, Jharkhand," CRPF said in a statement adding that all the jawans have been evacuated and are getting medical treatment at Ranchi. As the troops inched forward checking every suspected spot in the region, they recovered a huge quantity of arms and ammunition. The recovery included a 5.56 INSAS LMG, two 7.62 SLR Rifle, a 5.56 INSAS Rifle, 13 assorted magazines, and 470 assorted rounds," it added. 'Burha Pahar' is a mountain range spread over 55 square kms known to be a Naxal bastion. It touches Chhattisgarh's Balrampur and Latehar as well as Jharkhand's Garhwa districts, was captured in a joint operation of Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) general duty battalions, its Naxal specialised wing CoBRA, Jharkhand Police and Jharkhand Jaguar-- a special force of Jharkhand Police in September 2022 under 'Operation Octopus'. (ANI) Meghalaya Chief Minister and National People's Party (NPP) national president Conrad K Sangma on Saturday filed his nomination papers for the upcoming Meghalaya assembly polls in Tura. The assembly polls are slated for February 27. Conrad filed his nomination before the Returning Officer of 51-South Tura and Additional Deputy Commissioner, Saljong R Marak. Prior to the filing of his nomination, the NPP chief accompanied by his wife visited the grave of his late father and former CM, PA Sangma, in Tura, to seek his blessings. Speaking to reporters after filing his nomination, Conrad said there is a positive wave for the National People's Party and the opposition is disintegrating day by day. "Hence, in this political scenario I see the trend that NPP is heading towards getting an absolute majority and we are confident that we will get it," he said. Talking about the issues based on which the party will fight the elections, he said, "We are moving ahead with the development work we have done in the last 5 years. And the overall work that has happened in different sectors. and the fact that the foundation has been laid, it is time to take things forward to the next level... and the continuity is important to ensure that we'll be able to achieve those goals." Responding to Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader Dr Mukul Sangma's allegation that the NPP Chief is making racial comments, Conrad denied making any racial comments. "I have said that it's (TMC) an outsider party based on the analogy where Madam Mamata Banerjee herself has said in the last West Bengal elections that BJP [Bharatiya Janata Party] and other national parties are outside parties. I have said that if the same yardstick is applied to Meghalaya, with those yardsticks, which Mamata Banerjee has herself mentioned in her speech in elections, then TMC is an outside party. There is nothing racial about that comment." On Friday, the chief minister released the party's manifesto, 'People's Document - Vision 2023-28, at a meeting held at Jowai in West Jaintia Hills District with a focus on farmers and villages and promising to create 5 lakh jobs and employment opportunities for the youth if voted back to power. Notably, CM Conrad is seeking re-election from South Tura, which he won after being elected as the Chief Minister of Meghalaya in the bye-election for the seat in August 2018. He polled 13,656 votes and defeated his nearest Congress rival Charlotte W Momin by a margin of over 8,400 votes. Prior to that, he was the Member of Parliament from Tura (2016-2018). After the passing away of his father Late PA Sangma, on March 4, 2016, who was then the sitting MP from the Tura seat, Conrad contested the by-election from Tura to the Lok Sabha in May 2016 and won by a record margin of 1.92 lakh votes. He was sworn in as the Chief Minister of Meghalaya on March 6, 2018. Mentionable, the last date for filing of nomination for the Meghalaya Assembly elections 2023 is February 7. The nominations will be scrutinised on February 8 and the last date for withdrawal of nominations is February 10, 2023. The polling is on February 27 and results will be declared on March 2, 2023. (ANI) Shiv Sena leader Aaditya Thackeray has challenged Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde to contest polls against him in Mumbai's Worli Assembly constituency. "I have challenged this unconstitutional Chief Minister (Eknath Shinde) to contest the Assembly elections against me. I will resign from my Worli seat and he should resign from his seat. And let him contest from Worli against me. If he believes that he is so popular and so strong, he should come and take my challenge," Thackeray told ANI. Thackeray further attacked the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) over its budget. He said, "This is not a budget for Mumbaikars but is a budget for contractors. It is a budget which is prepared at Varsha Bungalow (the official residence of Maharashtra CM) and handed over to the BMC administrator to read." "So far we were concerned about the legal and moral bankruptcy of the state government but seeing the BMC budget today, I can say that we are more concerned about the financial bankruptcy of the BMC," the Sena leader said. Aaditya Thackeray said the BMC budget was almost the same as the previous year and "80 per cent copy-paste" of the previous year's budget. "In our time we did not use to portray pictures of our leaders but now in every advertising of BMC they are using two pictures prominently. Even Balasaheb Thackeray's very small picture is used in government ads," he added. Eknath Shinde took oath as the Chief Minister of Maharashtra on June 30 last year.This came after a faction of Shiv Sena under Shinde shifted the alliance to Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) from Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA). Since then, Maharashtra has been witnessing a tussle between both the factions of Sena as to who is the real inheritor of the legacy of Bal Thackeray. (ANI) The Narcotics Cell of Delhi Police has busted an active supply chain of women drug peddlers in Outer North Delhi and recovered heroin worth Rs 10 lakh in the international market from their possession, officials said on Saturday. Officials said they arrested a woman identified as Najma (26), a resident of Delhi's Swami Shardanand Colony Part-II Bhalswa Dairy on January 22 and seized 72 grams of Heroin from her possession. Later on the basis of the accused interrogation, her co-peddler, a resident of the Majnu ka tilla area was arrested. According to Narcotics Cell, Najma was arrested with 72 grams of Heroin, while 110 grams of Heroin was seized from her co-peddler. Officials of the Narcotics Cell said that the drug peddlers were arrested under operation 'Prahar', a drive against drug traffickers and suppliers active in Outer North Delhi by the team Narcotics Cell after they received confirmation regarding the presence of drugs. "An operation under head constable Rajesh posted at Narcotics Cell of Delhi police got information that one lady, resident of J.J Colony, Bhalswa Dairy is indulged in selling and supplying of Heroin in the area. The sleuths further informed that the delivery of a consignment of heroin from her house takes place between 9.00 am to 10.00 am to her customers," officials said. Upon receiving such information, a joint raiding party of the Narcotics Cell and Special Staff was constituted and a search operation was launched. "The raiding team laid a trap near Najma's house. On the instance of sleuths, the accused was arrested and 72 Grams Heroin was seized from her possessions," officials added. A case under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) has been registered by the Bhalswa Dairy police station against the accused, Najma. Officials further informed that on being interrogated, the accused informed about the co-peddler who was later arrested and 110 grams of Heroin was seized from the search of her house. "Accused Najma disclosed that recovered Heroin was procured from the co-peddler who is a resident of Delhi's Majnu ka tilla area. She was later delivering the same to her customer, a resident of J.J Colony Bhalswa Dairy, Delhi. Accused was taken on police remand and on her instance another accused lady was arrested," officials said. (ANI) The court of JMFC, Jharsuguda on Saturday extended the police custody of Gopal Krishna Das, Ex-ASI of Police, accused in the murder of Odisha's Health Minister, Naba Kishore Das case, by four days. As per the disclosure of the accused, the recovered 22 pieces of paper chits have been sent to the Handwriting bureau for examination and opinion, an official said. The Forensic Psychological Assessment and LVA Test of accused Gopal Krishna is being conducted by the team of CFSL, New Delhi at Jharsuguda. A special Medical Board has been constituted to study the mental health of the accused, an official said.The documents recovered from the paternal house at Industrial Estate, Berhampur and Govt quarter at Jharsuguda are being scrutinized. The financial details of the accused, his wife, brother and other close relatives are also being collected by a team of CID CB, an official said.Official added that the investigation of the case is in progress. The special investigating team (SIT) probing minister Naba Das' murder on Thursday recovered handwritten notes of accused ASI Gopal Das from a septic tank of Jharsuguda Airport police station. The CID and Crime Branch team in a statement said that the accused ASI during questioning revealed that he threw handwritten notes in a septic tank of the toilet of Jharsunguda Airport police station and that he had noted down his motives behind the crime in detail on the paper. The recovered pieces of handwritten papers will be sent to forensics and handwriting experts for the reconstruction of evidence and further examination, the Crime Branch said. The preserved viscera of the deceased have also been sent to the State Forensic Science Laboratory (SFSL), Rasulgarh in Bermuda Biological Station for Research (BBSR) for chemical examination and opinion, it said. A medical team led by DSP and CID Crime Branch at Berhampur is verifying the medical treatment records and financial behaviour of the accused. The team is also interrogating those related to the accused to ascertain the plea advanced by him. In connection to this, the accused's elder brother was also interrogated, the crime branch said. The Crime Branch further informed that the Additional DG of Police and CID Crime Odisha are camping at the spot. They are personally monitoring and supervising the investigation of the case. The Scientific Officer and Ballistic Experts also recovered one fired bullet during the inspection of the vehicle and the crime spot using a FARO 3-D Scanner. Naba Das had been the Health and Family Welfare Minister of Odisha since 2019. He was a three-time MLA from the Jharsuguda constituency and was said to be an influential leader in the area. Naba Das was shot at in Brajarajnagar in the Jharsuguda district and succumbed to his bullet injuries in Bhubaneswar hospital on Sunday. During the operation, it was found that a single bullet had entered and exited the body, injuring the heart and left lung and causing massive internal bleeding and injury. The Odisha government has written to the Odisha High Court requesting for a sitting/retired HC judge or district judge to monitor the Crime Branch probe into the murder of Health Minister Naba Kishore Das, as the accused is a police personnel. (ANI) Sessions Court in Bhopal on Saturday granted bail to Madhya Pradesh Former Chief Minister Digvijaya Singh in connection with a defamation case which was filed by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) state president VD Sharma. The bail plea was filed on December 5, 2022. The Congress leader had made an allegation against the BJP chief in July 2014 regarding Vyapam Scam, following which Sharma had filed the defamation case. "Today, I have taken bail in the defamation case. I am facing defamation cases in four states and I am answering to all of them," Digvijaya Singh said. "There was a demand for a CBI investigation into the Vyapam Scam but it did not happen. There are many people accused in the scam, but the BJP-led Shivraj government has not removed them. They are living in government houses. This whole conspiracy is of CM Shivraj Singh Chouhan and his associates who have looted the state. All those people are involved in it who led the Vyapam scam," Singh added. On the other hand, BJP state president V D Sharma said, "When Singh had levelled allegations against me, I filed a defamation case and December 5, 2022, the court had ordered an FIR against him. Today, he has taken bail but he will have to answer that it is not easy to make allegations on anyone, you will have to answer in court." Reacting to Singh's remark alleging CM Chouhan and his associates for looting the state, Sharma said, " If I use such words for him (Digvijay Singh), then he will be very pained that these words are used for him in this country. I don't want to use such words, I am a responsible office bearer of a political party and should not do such a thing. Shivraj Singh Chouhan is the longest-serving BJP CM in India, he is a person who stands with the poor." "Don't worry, no one becomes a broker because of what you say and your allegations, the country knows who is a broker, you raise questions about surgical strikes, you raise questions on the martyrdom of Mohan Chand Sharma, this is your nature. You have been doing it all your life. And that's why you are saying that many states have levelled allegations against you," Sharma added. (ANI) All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) chief Asaduddin Owaisi on Saturday raised concern after the Assam government's crackdown against child marriages. Addressing a press conference here on Saturday, the Hyderabad MP said, "What will happen to those girls who have been married? The Assam government has booked 4000 cases and is talking of booking 4000 more. So, who will take care of those girls? You are putting a mountain of troubles over them." "You are in the government for six years, so it is a failure of the state. Why haven't you built more schools in the state," he added. He further accused the BJP of being "biased" and alleged that the government is not giving land to people in Lower Assam. "This government is biased against Muslims. They gave land to landless people in Upper Assam but didn't give the same to people in Lower Assam, instead are evicting people in huge numbers," he said. The AIMIM chief also raised concern over the adjournment of Parliament for the second day in a row. "We want to raise certain issues in the Parliament, but the government is not letting the Parliament function. It is benefitting them as they are able to get away with the questions," he further said. Notably, considering a surge in cases of child marriage (below the age of 18 years) of Assam women as reported by the National Report of the fifth round of the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5), the Himanta Biswa Sarma-led State government is carrying the crackdown against child marriages. As per the latest development, Assam police have arrested 2258 people, across the state, involved in child marriage incidents. Police said they have a list of 8,000 accused and as the drive continues, the figures will increase. The drive was launched on Thursday night after CM Himanta Biswa Sarma chaired a video-conference meeting with senior officials of the police department directing them to launch a crackdown to rid the state of the evil practice of child marriage. This episode of this slew of crackdowns dates back to May 5, 2022, when the Health Ministry released the fifth report of the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5), carried out in 2019 and 2020. The report, following a fine and detailed reading by the Assam government, showed serious concerns regarding child marriage, teenage pregnancy, and maternal mortality. It was found in the report that 31.8 per cent of women in Assam between 20-24 age were married at a minor age or before 18 years. This was even higher than the national average of 23.3 per cent. Of these 31.8 per cent of women, more than half (50.8 per cent) cases were from All India United Democratic Front (AIUDF) MP Badruddin Ajmal's parliamentary constituency, Dhubri. As per the government, child marriage leads to teenage pregnancy in women causing maternal deaths in the state. According to the Assam police data, 139 people have been arrested in Biswanath, 126 in Dhubri, 120 in Baksa, 114 in Barpeta, 97 in Nagaon, 96 in Hojai, 94 in Kokrajhar, 87 in Bongaigaon, 79 in Karimganj, 76 in Hailakandi, 72 in Cachar, 72 in Goalpara district in cases related to child marriage. Director General of Assam Police (DGP) GP Singh, while addressing a press conference on Friday, said that 4,074 cases related to child marriage have been registered at different police stations across the state. Meanwhile, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma informed that the crackdown against child marriages in the state would continue in the coming days. (ANI) A 'Millet Canteen' shall be commissioned at AIIMS, New Delhi as the Government of India has decided to celebrate the year 2023 as the 'International Year Millets' to make it a people's movement and promote millet products globally, said the All India Institute Of Medical Science (AIIMS) in a statement on Saturday. The Government of India has decided to celebrate the year 2023 as the 'International Year Millets' to make it a people's movement so that Indian millets, recipes, and value-added products are promoted globally. As Millets are high in protein, fibre, essential vitamins, and minerals, they are renowned as a nutritional powerhouse. In addition to a plethora of health benefits, millets are also good for the environment with low water & input requirement. The 'International Year of Millets' stands to provide a unique opportunity to increase global production, ensure efficient processing and consumption, promote better utilization of crop rotations and encourage better connectivity throughout food systems to promote millets as a key component of the food basket. In line with Govt. of India's impetus, a 'Millet Canteen' shall be commissioned at AIIMS New Delhi on the 2nd Floor of the Central Cafeteria. This canteen shall offer millet-based dishes on a 24x7 basis and shall be operationalized latest by 1st March 2023. In other several efforts by the government to promote millet globally, the Indian Institute of Millet Research in Hyderabad will be supported as the Centre of Excellence for sharing best practices, research and technologies at the international level, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said on Wednesday. The minister said in her budget speech that India is the largest producer and second largest exporter of 'Shree Anna' in the world. India is a global leader in the production of millet with an area of about 12.5 million hectares and a share of more than 15 per cent of the world's total production. Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana are the major millets producing states. Assam Chief Minister Dr Himanta Biswa Sarma on February 1, inaugurated a Millet Cafe on the premises of Janata Bhawan in Guwahati. Speaking on the occasion, Chief Minister Dr Sarma said that the cafe has been inaugurated to increase the popularity of millet and complement the nutritional quotient of the employees of Janata Bhawan. FSSAI will soon formulate guidelines for schools, hospitals, government canteens etc, to incorporate millets as nutritional options in the food menu, said Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya on Jan 31. On Jan 30, the President of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) Csaba Korosi was on a visit to India and he was welcomed by External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar as he hosted him for a millet lunch. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on January 29, said that a new revolution is on its way as people are widely participating in the campaigns promoting Yoga and Millet by making them an essential part of their lives. The growing interest in millet and entrepreneurs tapping its potential in India also found a mention in Prime Minister Narendra Modi's monthly Mann Ki Baat programme. A sizable portion of PM Modi's Mann Ki Baat on Sunday was dedicated to millets. Even a tableau of the Indian Council and Agricultural Research (ICAR) was on the theme International Year of Millets 2023 and it was among the special attractions during the 74th Republic Day parade at Kartavya Path. The tableau of ICAR depicted the flourishing crops of jowar, bajra, ragi, kutki and Sanwa. Besides, the tractor in front of the tableau is decorated with a rangoli of millet grains. Similarly, on Jan 25, the National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG) and Wildlife Institute of India (WII) organised a one-day national-level seminar on 'Millets for Life (Lifestyle for Environment): Developing Climate Resilient Local Communities in the Ganga Basin' at India International Centre in New Delhi. The seminar featured experts involved with several aspects of millet cultivation and marketing promotion, including policymakers, academicians and practitioners. Earlier this year, in January, Karnataka Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai inaugurated the International Millet and Organic Mela-2023 in Bengaluru and suggested preparing a scientific outlook report to change the lives of farmers. (ANI) A 40-year-old Kashmiri businessman, who was abducted by his two business partners from Delhi's Kashmiri Gate area, was rescued from Punjab, an official said on Saturday. After six hours, Delhi Police along with its counterpart Punjab Police managed to rescue the victim and nabbed the kidnappers from Phagwara in Punjab. The accused have been identified as Nishar Ahmad (48) and Imtiyaz Ahmad (48) --both residents of village Pahroo Navgav, district Budgam in Jammu and Kashmir. Deputy Commissioner of Police (north), Sagar Singh Kalsi, said that on Friday, a Police Control Room (PCR) call was received at Kashmiri Gate police station regarding the kidnapping of a man from the area. "The call was received from a Kashmir-based number and on initial enquiry, it was revealed that two Kashmiris have abducted one man from Hare Rama Travels in the area. The CCTV footage near the travel agency was analysed and it was revealed that the accused abducted Sayad Tarikh in a taxi," said the DCP. "A case under relevant sections of Indian Penal Code was registered and after scanning CCTV footages, it was found that the taxi- swift dzire -- is going towards Kashmir through G.T. Karnal Road. The police teams tasked with investigation immediately chased and a W.T. message was also flashed subsequently to police of Haryana and Punjab," said the DCP. The taxi was intercepted at Phagwara, with the help of Punjab Police and the victim was safely rescued from the clutches of the accused. During interrogation, it was revealed that both the victim and the accused are business partners and there is a monetary dispute of Rs 55 lakh between them. "The victim was not in a position to repay his debt. When the victim opposed paying his debt, both the accused threatened to kill him and asked him to quietly go with them to Jammu and Kashmir and if he spoke to someone in-between, his dead body would not be found," said the official. "The duo accused was planning to recover Rs 55 lakh from the family members of the victim after the abduction. The accused also impersonated police officers before the taxi driver who was hired by them," said the official. --IANS spr/uk/ ( 375 Words) 2023-02-04-19:20:06 (IANS) The Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) has lodged a complaint with the cyber crime police station against unidentified miscreants who created a website allegedly impersonating the official website of the Congress party. Through the fake website, false and defamatory messages are being circulated, the complaint said. The Congress said that the 'illegitimate' website is disseminating inaccurate, defamatory and damaging information which are affecting the image of the KPCC. The portal pretending to be the official website of the state Congress is powered by Midnight Digital Private Limited, a digital marketing platform that is supposedly based out of Gujarat. This website is causing severe harm to the image and reputation of the party and its leaders besides causing confusion among the public, the complaint said. The website is not authorised by the party and it is using the official name, address and logo of the Congress without its permission, it added. "The content published on the website is false and defamatory in nature and is intended to malign the image of the party and its leaders," the complaint stated. "This constitutes offence under IPC Section 499 which deals with defamation and Section 505 for dissemination of false information. I request you to take stringent action against the miscreants who have created the illegitimate website and are spreading false content. "The website should be taken down immediately, and the people behind it should be identified and brought to justice," said A.S. Ponnanna, senior advocate and Chairman of Legal Human Rights and RTI Department. --IANS mka/arm ( 265 Words) 2023-02-04-19:32:03 (IANS) A team from the Bindapur police station received specific inputs regarding some gang members, who used to gather at a house in Vani Vihar and indulge in gambling. "On February 2, a police team raided the house following which a total of 17 gamblers were apprehended. They were found making bets on playing cards," said Manoj C., Deputy Commissioner of Police (Dwarka). "A case under Sections 3/4/9/55 of the Gambling Act has been registered at the Bindapur police station and all the accused have been placed under arrest," said the DCP, adding that Rs 3,95,000 in cash was recovered from the spot. On investigation, it was revealed that the kingpin, Manoj Jindal, ran a stationery shop at Vikas Nagar where he suffered huge losses and in order to recover the same, he started an illegal gambling racket at his residence. --IANS spr/arm ( 188 Words) 2023-02-04-19:42:01 (IANS) Property worth Rs 3 crores belonging to Ankita Bhandari murder case main accused Pulkit Arya was confiscated by the District Magistrate, said police on Saturday. A report was sent to the District Magistrate for confiscation of the property under the Gangster Act. It may be noted that Pulkit Arya along with his gang members, formed an organized gang and earned illegal money through anti-social activities in his hotel/resort and its surrounding areas in Haridwar and Pauri Garhwal districts of Uttarakhand, added the police. In relation to which the charge was registered at Laxmanjhula police station of the district under Section 2/3 Gangster Act 1986, which was handed over to the then-in-charge Inspector Lansdowne Manibhushan Srivastava (current in-charge Inspector Kotdwar). On January 11, the First Class Judicial Magistrate Court Kotdwar, in Uttarakhand approved the narco and polygraph tests of expelled Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader's son Pulkit Arya, the main accused in Ankita Bhandari murder case. In the case, consent was taken from Pulkit Arya on behalf of the Judicial Magistrate through video conferencing, after which the verdict was pronounced. The case pertains to 19-year-old Ankita, whose body was recovered from the Chilla canal in Rishikesh on September 24.She was reported missing for at least six days before the officials found her body. She worked as a receptionist at a resort run by Pulkit Arya, the son of expelled BJP leader Vinod Arya. Pulkit Arya was arrested for allegedly pushing her into the canal following an altercation. Two more people - Ankit Gupta and Saurabh Bhaskar, have also been arrested in the case. On December 4, the Uttarakhand Police said that the investigation into the Ankita Bhandari murder case is almost complete. The only procedure that remains is the narco tests of the accused, for which they had sought permission from the Kotdwar court to conduct narco and polygraph tests of all three accused. Earlier, the three accused, including expelled BJP leader's son Pulkit Arya refused to undergo narco and polygraph tests, citing that the SIT did not explain why it wanted to conduct narco and polygraph tests after filing the charge sheet. (ANI) Karnataka Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai has claimed that Congress opposition leader in the State Legislative Assembly and former state CM Siddaramaiah has plunged the state into maximum loan during his tenure. "In the history of Karnataka, Leader of the Opposition in the State Legislative Assembly Siddaramaiah has the credit of taking the maximum loan during his five years ruling as the chief minister," Bommai said addressing the media here. Reacting to the former CM's charges that only 10 per cent of the works announced in the previous year's budget have been implemented and the State's borrowing has touched Rs 3 lakh crore, Bommai told reporters here on Saturday that details of the budget implementation will be furnished in the coming budget session. Speaking about the reports regarding KPCC Manifesto Committee Chairman Dr G Parameshwar's unhappiness with being sidelined, Bommai said it was an internal issue of the Congress Party. "But Dr Parameshwar is very intelligent and knows everything. If he has expressed unhappiness, they must understand it," he added. Commenting on Siddaramaiah's statement that there has been pro-Congress wave across the state, Bommai took a jibe at Siddaramaiah by 'advising' the Congress leader needs to "safeguard" the MLAs of the region where he is touring. "This is his only piece of advice for Siddaramaiah who is in the most responsible position," Karnataka CM said. On being asked about Sri Ram Sena Chief Pramod Mutalik's demand to BJP not to field its candidate in Karkala, Bommai said Energy Minister V Sunil Kumar has been representing this constituency for the last three times and this is his constituency. "Everyone has the right to appeal but as a national party, BJP will field its candidates in all the 224 Assembly constituencies," Bommai clarified. (ANI) Tripura Chief Minister Dr Manik Saha on Saturday inspected preparation for Amit Shah's February 6 rally in the state ahead of the state assembly election. The Chief Minister visited both the rally spots at Santirbazar in South Tripura and Khowai in the Khowai district in order to ensure that everything is conducted flawlessly. During his visit, the Chief Minister reviewed all the arrangements and passed necessary instructions to the responsible party functionaries. Speaking to ANI at Santirbazar, CM Saha said, "Union Home Minister is arriving here in the state to address multiple rallies ahead of the elections. We are here to check the rally preparedness. From the seating arrangements to a gathering of the crowd, each and every aspect is being taken care of. He will also visit Khowai to address the rally, the preparations are underway there as well". When asked about the party's electoral prospects, CM Saha said, "I am quite sure that BJP will win over 50 seats. There will be a Tsunami". The Chief Minister had been leading from the front for the party's poll campaign in different parts of the state. While he is giving time in his constituency in the first hours, in the evening, Dr Saha is making all-out efforts to reach other areas and campaign for other candidates. Later, the Chief Minister visited Khowai and took stock of the ongoing preparations. BJP posted a stunning victory in Tripura in the 2018 Assembly elections, a Left bastion. After its poll victory, BJP appointed Biplab Deb as Tripura Chief Minister and in May 2022 appointed Manik Saha for the role. The state will go to the polls for 60-member assembly on February 17. (ANI) Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan has said that he will work together with youth power to make Madhya Pradesh self-reliant. According to him, youth has to take the responsibility of changing people's lives. If there is passion and determination then no task is impossible. He made the remark while addressing the Community Leadership Youth Samagam program at Jamburi Maidan in the state capital, Bhopal on Saturday. CM Chouhan further said, "People should benefit from the leadership potential of the youth. The youth who complete the leadership training course would work to take the schemes of the government to the masses. The youth associated with Madhya Pradesh Jan Abhiyaan Parishad had done wonderful work in various fields. Various facilities would also be provided to the youth associated with the Community Leadership Training Programme." "The nodal agency for the community leadership training program will be Jan Abhiyan Parishad. This course will be considered equivalent to students of other regular courses of Govt. The students of this course will get the benefits of higher education and other departmental schemes. Community engagement/internship projects will be arranged in the concerned departments to ensure public participation in the schemes of the selected students of the Community Leadership Training Scheme. Students will be authorised to evaluate government schemes. There will also be an honorarium system for them," Chouhan added. Besides this, CM Chouhan described the development status of the state on the occasion. He said, "The development rate of the state is 19.7 per cent, which is the highest in the country. The budget of the state, which used to be 20,000 crores, is now going to cross 3 lakh crores. The per capita income in the state has increased from Rs 13,000 to Rs 1,37,000. Madhya Pradesh's contribution to the country's economy has increased." He added that a miracle happened in terms of production in the agricultural sector and roads have been rebuilt. "The percentage of irrigation has increased. Now arrangements are being made to provide drinking water from door to door. The campaign to change the lives of the people by strengthening the infrastructure was going on. Many people in urban and rural areas were left behind in the race of development, to benefit them, the schemes have been designed," he added. (ANI) Unfortunately, many family members, acquaintances, and celebrities have suffered from anorexia nervosa, or AN, a severe mental illness characterised by extreme concerns about weight, shape, and self-esteem. AN symptoms include an eating disorder, nutritional restriction, deliberate vomiting, and severe emaciation. Mindfulness meditation is already commonly used as a therapy for AN. Its clinical utility in treating neurogenic emaciation, on the other hand, has not before been explored. Mindfulness meditation, according to a team of researchers at Kyoto University's Graduate School of Medicine, does alleviate such worries. The study's findings demonstrate alterations in the activity of brain areas associated with anxiety. The team's mindfulness meditation program has seen a significant decrease in obsessive thoughts about the test subject's self-image and brain activity associated with related emotions. "Our results suggest that the participants in the study became better at accepting their anxiety as it is," says lead author Tomomi Noda. Mindfulness and meditation work hand-in-hand. The former teaches practitioners to hone their awareness of their present experience and their ability to not judge and rather accept their circumstances. The latter is the medium by which mindfulness can be approached. "We focused on the possibility that patients with AN try to avoid their crippling anxiety about weight gain and self-image by restricting food or vomiting," adds co-author Masanori Isobe. A 4-week mindfulness intervention program examined neural changes using tasks designed to induce weight-related anxiety. The researchers then regulated this anxiety by helping patients accept their current situations and experiences at face value, instead of avoiding them. The researchers used functional magnetic resonance imaging -- or fMRI -- to analyze attention regulation in relation to eating disorders. The study's results support the subjective experiences of the researchers. However, it was unexpected to them that several global events, such as the Covid-19 pandemic and the Russo-Ukrainian war, were significant factors in patients' anxieties. "We anticipate practical implications of our results in clinical psychiatry and psychology and broader research into mitigating suffering through mindfulness, using the strategy of self-acceptance to regulate attention," concludes group leader Toshiya Murai. (ANI) A large number of women on Saturday staged a protest in front of a police station in Assam's Dhubri district against the Assam government's action against child marriage. Security personnel were forced to resort to lathi-charge to disperse the women who gathered in front of the Tamarhat police station in Dhubri district to stage a protest. The women demanded the release of their respective husbands and sons who were arrested by police in connection with cases related to child marriage. According to police, security personnel were forced to resort to the lathi charge when the protesters tried to break the police station gate and security barrier. Aparna N, Superintendent of Police of Dhubri district told ANI that, one CRPF personnel was injured during the tussle. "There is no report of any injury from the civilian side. The situation is now under control," Aparna N said. Assam police have so far arrested 2258 persons across the state in connection with cases related to child marriage. Director General of Assam Police (DGP) GP Singh, while addressing a press conference on Friday, said that among the arrested individuals 52 were priests and Qazis involved in child marriages. "The maximum number of people have been arrested from Dhubri, Barpeta, Kokrajhar and Vishwanath districts," he added. DGP Singh further informed that Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma had directed the Police to carry out a probe as he had got inputs that child marriage was rampant in the state. "About two months ago, CM Sarma had told police that he had got inputs that child marriage was rampant in the various parts of the state and directed Police to carry out a probe. After the directions from the CM, all the district SPs were told to get in touch with respective village defence parties, Gaon Buras, chiefs of various communities and prominent people of various communities and on the basis of that we have observed that there are instances of child marriage in various parts of the state," DGP Singh said mentioning that the collected data belonged to the years 2020, 2021, and 2022. The DGP said that most of the cases have been registered under different provisions of the POCSO Act and IPC sections and action will be taken as per the law. He said that the arrested persons will be produced before the court. Meanwhile, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma informed that the crackdown against child marriages in the state would continue in the coming days. (ANI) Union Law Minister Kiren Rijiju on Saturday said the country is run by the people and guided by the Constitution while adding that no one can give a warning to anyone. The Union Law Minister attended the 150th anniversary of the Allahabad High Court Bar Association in Prayagraj. Speaking at the occasion, Rijiju said, "I saw a media report today that stated that Supreme Court has given a warning...The 'Malik' (master) of the country is its people. We are here for the service. The Indian Constitution is our guide. According to the Constitution, the country will be run by the wish of the people. No one can give a warning to anyone." The minister's remarks came at a time when the government and the judiciary have differences over the process of appointment of judges to the higher judiciary. Meanwhile, the Supreme Court of India on Saturday cleared the appointments of five new Judges. The Supreme Court collegium had recommended their names in December for elevation from High Courts to the Apex court. After the new appointments, the working strength of the Supreme Court increased to 32. On the appointment, Law and Justice Minister Kiren Rijiju extended the best wishes to all newly appointed judges. He tweeted that, as per the provisions under the Constitution of India, the President of India has appointed the following Chief Justices and Judges of the High Courts as Judges of the Supreme Court. I extend best wishes to all of them." List of Judges elevated to the Supreme Court are Justices Pankaj Mithal (Rajasthan High Court Chief Justice), Sanjay Karol (Patna High Court Chief Justice), PV Sanjay Kumar (Manipur High Court Chief Justice), Ahsanuddin Amanullah (Patna High Court judge), and Manoj Misra (Allahabad High Court Judge). Attorney General R Venkataramani on Friday apprised the top court that the Central Government will soon clear the name of the five judges recommended by the Supreme Court collegium in December for elevation from High Courts to the top court. AG R Venkataramani submission came in response to the court's queries regarding the status of the pending recommendations. On December 13, 2022, the Collegium recommended five names for appointment as Judges of the Supreme Court, namely Justice Pankaj Mithal, Justice Sanjay Karol, Justice PV Sanjay Kumar, Justice Ahsanuddin Amanullah, and Justice Manoj Misra. The Supreme Court earlier expressed its concern on the issue of keeping the list of the transfers of judges of the high courts pending with the Centre and warned that delay in transfers might lead to administrative actions which may not be palatable. A bench headed by justice Sanjay Kishan Kaul said that the transfer is a serious issue.The court also said that it will not let third parties clear names in this and warned that it doesn't make the court take a difficult stand. "We have put to the Attorney General that any delay in this may lead to administrative actions which might not be palatable," the court said. The appointment of judges, which has been under the purview of the Supreme Court collegium or panel of senior most judges since 1993, has been a point of contention for the central government over the years. (ANI) Mukhi asked the district administration to expedite the schemes like Jal Jeevan Mission, and Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana in the state and meet the projected deadline. He asked Deputy Commissioner Narsing Pawar and heads of departments to showcase their administrative acumen towards the implementation of the Central government schemes and make Tinsukia an ideal district in the field of scheme implementation relating to the social security of the people. In a meeting held at the conference room of the DC office, the Governor met the officials of the district administration and reviewed the progress of different Central government schemes. The Governor also took stock of the electrification work in the district. On the agricultural front, the Governor took stock of the schemes to achieve farmers' welfare. He also laid emphasis on doubling the farmers' income besides multiple cropping on the same plot of land. The Governor also met the higher officials of the security agencies and took stock of the law and order in Tinsukia and had a detailed discussion on all aspects that potentially determine the law and order in the district. The Governor further advised the officials to provide good public service by being polite to the public and giving their best towards public service. (ANI) Senior Congress leader V Hanumantha Rao on Saturday slammed the central government, saying that Narendra Modi is privatizing all public sectors because he wants to help "big people". "NDA government came into power but not thinking about the below poverty line and poorer section of this society. They are encouraging big companies like Mukesh Ambani, and Adani and are helping them. Public sector companies were founded after the country's independence and started by Jawaharlal Nehru like ECIL, BHEL and other factories including steel factories. Now after Narendra Modi came to power they are privatizing all public sectors as he wants to help big people. He is not thinking about oppressed people," Rao said while speaking to ANI. Rao further said that the shareholders are coming down and people are asking in Parliament to put a Joint Parliamentary Committee and urge the Chief Justice to enquire about it. Hitting out at the government over privatising the Vishakhapatnam steel plant, Rao said, "More than 20 lakh people can get jobs there (steel plant). Vishakhapatnam steel plant should not go to Adani. It should be taken back to the government. Every political party should fight and get back the Vishakhapatnam steel plant to the Government. Adani will not give any reservations in the factory. Finally, they will sell all the land and run away to Gujarat. I am also going to Vishakhapatnam after the 15th. I will meet all the political parties." (ANI) Telangana Pradesh Congress Committee (TPCC) president A Revanth Reddy would commence his 'Hath Se Hath Jodo' padayatra at Medaram in Mulugu mandal of Warangal district on February 6. Party state in-charge and All India Congress Committee (AICC) leader Manikrao Thakre would participate in the programme as chief guest. "After the Bharat Jodo Yatra by Rahul Gandhi, the Congress party has taken up 'Haath se Haath Jodo' to take Rahul Gandhi's message to every house in all states. We have discussed spreading Rahul Gandhi's message to every house. We have decided that the PCC chairman will start this on the 6th of this month. All the leaders will start this yatra from different places. We have also decided who is taking responsibility for which area," Manikrao Thakre said. He further said that there will be a break for three days - February 24, 25 and 26- as the AICC meetings are scheduled at Raipur in Chhattisgarh, and it would be resumed later. "We will take the message of Rahul Gandhi and also the forgotten promises of the BJP at the centre and KCR government in the state to the people through this program," Thakre said. All Congress leaders in the State would commence similar yatras at their convenience in their areas to take the message of Rahul Gandhi to every house in Telangana. TPCC Chief Revanth Reddy, while briefing the media about the programme said that 7 Assemblies in the Mahbubabad district will be covered in ten days. "7 Assemblies in Mahbubabad district will be covered in ten days. All the leaders in all levels will participate in this. As there is not enough to assign new Mandal party presidents and committees, this program will be taken up by the previous leadership itself. Previously, YSR had undertaken a padayatra from Chevella during the TDP rule. The Congress party came to power after that. Congress has brought many welfare schemes not only in the state but also in the centre. The padayatra at the time helped bring the party to power in the state and centre. Telangana is now facing the same crisis situation as it was during Chandrababu Naidu's rule in 2003," Reddy said. He further said that the party has picked up Medaram for beginning the programme as it is the place of Sammakka Saralamma (tribal gods) who fought against the kings and monarchy. "Congress party will bring confidence in the people. MLA Seethakka has fought for poor people and also done a lot of service during Covid. Thus we are starting this program from the constituency of MLA Seethakka. Medaram is the place of Sammakka Saralamma (tribal gods) who fought against the kings and monarchy. We will continue to fight with the same inspiration against the government that is disturbing the people," Reddy said. Coming down heavily on the BJP and the Bharat Rashtra Samithi, Reddy said that both parties have worked together in all bills and all elections in the last 8 years. "At a time when people were looking towards the Congress, those two opened the curtain for a play to show that they are criticising each other and used the Raj Bhavan and Pragati Bhavan as a stage for it. The Governor did the work of praising KCR in the assembly with raw lies. The Governor has changed into a brand ambassador and spread lies to cover the failures of KCR. Let us go to any village of any MLA and inspect if there is water in every house. The governor tried to cover the lies of KCR. Congress is the only party that stands against BRS in the state. BJP and BRS policies are all the same. We have been saying from earlier that those two parties are one," he added. (ANI) A British Sikh who allegedly planned to "kill the Queen" on Christmas Day in 2021 and was arrested with a loaded crossbow has admitted to treason charges. Jaswant Singh Chail, 21, pleaded guilty to three charges, including an offence under the Treason Act, during a hearing at the Old Bailey on Friday. Chail, who appeared at the Old Bailey via video uplink from Broadmoor Hospital where he is presently held, will be sentenced by the court on March 31. He admitted intending to injure or alarm the late Queen under the Treason Act 1842, the Metro reported. A resident of Southampton, Hampshire, Chail had reportedly said: "I am here to kill the Queen", before he was handcuffed and arrested. He also admitted to making threats to kill and possessing an offensive weapon in a public place, namely a crossbow."He had made a video of himself stating his desire to harm the late Queen, which he sent to a group of contacts shortly before he was arrested," a Met Police statement said. In the video, which was recorded four days earlier and sent to Chail's contacts list about minutes before his arrest, he says: "I am sorry, I am sorry for what I have done and what I will do. I'm going to attempt to assassinate Elizabeth Queen of the Royal Family." In the video posted on Snapchat he said that the attack is a revenge for the 1919 Jallianwala Bagh massacre of Indians by British colonial troops. "I am an Indian Sikh. My name was Jaswant Singh Chail. My name is Darth Jones," Chail, a former supermarket worker, said in the video.The Queen, who passed away last year, had been celebrating holidays at Windsor Castle when the incident took place. According to reports, Chail had scaled the perimeter of the grounds with a nylon rope ladder, some two hours before his arrest. He was wearing a hood and mask and was carrying a crossbow loaded with a bolt, with the safety catch off and ready to fire.The prosecution told the court that the Supersonic X-Bow weapon he was carrying had the potential to cause "serious or fatal injuries". --IANS mi/vd ( 374 Words) 2023-02-03-20:08:02 (IANS) After a suicide bomber ripped apart a mosque at Peshawar's Police Lines and left around 100 people, mostly policemen, dead on Monday, Pakistan has directed the Chinese nationals to hire private firms for security, reported Dawn. The Punjab Home Department directed the Chinese nationals living in the province or working with private companies to hire private security companies of A category for their security. The home department and police held a meeting on Thursday to review the security of the Chinese nationals working on government and private projects in the province, reported Dawn. In 2014, the Punjab government established the Special Protection Unit (SPU) as a dedicated unit for the security of foreigners working on different projects of national importance. As many as 3,336 security constables, 187 drivers, 20 wireless operators, 244 former army personnel in the rank of senior security constable to the chief security officer and seven former army officers in the rank of additional director & deputy director were recruited in the SPU, reported Dawn. Keeping in view the job requirement, the personnel were imparted six months rigorous training at four police training schools by professional trainers. Presently, 3,829 officers and personnel of the SPU along with 2,552 attached personnel from districts are providing security to 7,567 Chinese working at four CPEC and 27 non-CPEC projects in the province. They are also providing security to the Chinese residing at 70 residences and 24 camps in the province, reported Dawn. Meanwhile, SPU DIG Agha Yousuf said that due to an increase in terror incidents in the country, the security of the Chinese officials working on government projects had been beefed up further. He said the SPU was deployed for the security of the Chinese nationals working only on the CPEC and other government-related projects and added that the Chinese nationals working with private projects or visiting the country on their own were directed to hire security companies for their security. Yousuf added that the government was paying for the security of the Chinese nationals working on government projects but they could not deploy SPU personnel everywhere and the government could not pay for the security of Chinese nationals working with private companies, reported Dawn. He said the Chinese nationals working with private companies or running their personal business would have to hire their own security and the home department would evaluate the company. (ANI) In September 2022, Tim Barrow was chosen to serve as National Security Adviser of the UK. Barrow was once the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office's (FCDO) Political Director and Second Permanent Under-Secretary, according to the official website of the Government of the UK. The ties between India and the UK are often described as a Living Bridge, a dynamic economic force of people, businesses and ideas. India and the United Kingdom (UK) share a comprehensive strategic partnership with each other. The two nations have also concluded six rounds of negotiations for a trade deal and will begin the next round very soon. Notably, India and UK began the negotiations for the Free Trade Agreement between the two nations in January 2022. The UK-India free trade agreement is well-advanced. Although trade at the moment is worth 29.6 billion pounds, India is only the 12th largest trading partner of the UK. The British High Commissioner also emphasised the advantages of the India-UK free trade agreement, which he says is supported by the mutual trust between the two countries, in an exclusive interview with ANI. Britain's new Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, the country's first leader of Indian descent had earlier conveyed his hope of finalising the trade agreement during a call with his Indian counterpart Narendra Modi. The visit of NSA Doval to London comes right after he met his US counterpart Jake Sullivan in Washington last week. (ANI) Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf (PTI) Vice Chairman Shah Mahmood Qureshi on Friday slammed Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif for inviting PTI Chairman Imran Khan to an all-parties conference (APC) to deliberate on national challenges and said that when the security situation of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has deteriorated, the government has suddenly remembered for national unity to fight the menace of terrorism. Qureshi said that Khyber Pakhtunkhwa's (KP) security situation is deteriorating rapidly, Pakistan based The Nation newspaper reported. According to The Nation, the former foreign minister attacked the Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) led government and said, "when the situation has deteriorated, they suddenly remember to fight against terrorism. After the recent suicide bombing in Pakistan's Peshawar city of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) province, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Friday called for national unity to fight the menace of terrorism. Mahmood Qureshi said that Pakistan is under a grave economic crisis due to the faulty policies of the government. According to Qureshi, if the current political instability continues, it will ultimately result in an economic crisis. "Pakistan cannot move forward if all the political parties are not on the same page," he said. Shah Mehmood Qureshi said that for the last eight-nine months, the government's economic policies are going in the wrong direction, The Nation reported. Qureshi said that on one side the government is arresting the PTI leaders and on the other side they are sending invites for conferences, it is beyond understanding. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif had earlier invited PTI Chairman Imran Khan to an all-parties conference (APC), summoned on February 7 to deliberate on national challenges. On one side the government is calling the Opposition to talk and on the other side government is arresting PTI leaders. Pakistan's former Interior Minister in the Imran Khan-led government and Awami Muslim League leader Sheikh Rashid was arrested by Islamabad Police. Rashid was arrested for alleging that the former President of Pakistan Asif Ali Zardari had hatched a conspiracy to assassinate former Prime Minister Imran Khan, the Dawn reported. The arrest comes after PTI chief Imran Khan had in a statement claimed that Asif Ali Zardari has hatched a 'Plan C' to assassinate him and for this purpose, Zardari has given the money of the Sindh government to a terrorist organisation. Citizens in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa staged protests in the region on Friday against a rise in terrorism in the region as they called for strict action by the authorities, Dawn reported. The rallies come as Pakistan has been plagued by a surge of terrorism, primarily in KP, but also in Balochistan and the bordering Punjab town of Mianwali. Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunkhwa police on Wednesday staged a protest against the rising terrorism in the province. The police force protested in front of the Peshawar Press Club. This is the first time in history that the province's police have protested against terrorism. Videos shared on social media show groups of police officers raising slogans against rising terrorism On January 30, a suicide bomber blew himself up in Peshawar's Police Lines mosque, a heavily guarded facility at about 1 pm during Zohr prayers, forcing the roof to collapse on those praying at the time. The death toll in the blast has risen to 100 as the rescue operation to retrieve bodies from the debris of the mosque concluded on Tuesday, Geo News reported. The toll of injured has reached at least 221. According to Mohammad Asim, the spokesperson for the primary medical facility, Lady Reading Hospital Peshawar, approximately 100 bodies have been taken into the facility and 53 patients are being treated, as per Geo News. (ANI) Japan and Netherlands have agreed to join the United States in limiting the exports of high-end semiconductor technology to China, Japan-based nonprofit cooperative news agency Kyodo News reported. According to Kyodo News, the deal was struck after the United States in October unveiled sweeping export controls on certain advanced chips that could be used by China to train artificial intelligence systems and power advanced military and surveillance applications. White House national security spokesman John Kirby had earlier said that the US government will make an announcement once the talks are concluded. Kirby confirmed that Japanese and Dutch officials had been in Washington for discussions on a range of issues that are important to the three countries and "certainly the safety and security of emerging technologies is going to be on that agenda." According to Kyodo News, as high-tech competition between the United States and China intensifies, Japan has found itself caught between its security ally and its biggest trading partner, which depends on imports of high-end chips and equipment to manufacture various products. Indo-Pacific Centre for Strategic Communications (IPCSC) recently said that China has been ruthless in its attempts to acquire high-end microchips as the country imports more than USD 300 billion worth of semiconductors each year. The country, however, finds it difficult to acquire microchips amidst the US-imposed barriers. The report also states that due to the restrictions, "China is finding it tough to train artificial intelligence systems and power advanced applications in the military and surveillance fields". The US administration in October put a set of export controls on China which included measures that stop Beijing from acquiring from anywhere in the world, semiconductor chips with US equipment. Since then, even Europe and its allies have been working towards ensuring that Beijing doesn't procure high-end microchips from anywhere in the world. As a result, Chinese firm, Si Microelectronics was in November blocked by Germany from taking over chip-making factory Elmos. The country also blocked Chinese investment in the Bavaria-based ERS Electronic. The UK government in the same month barred Chinese firm Wingtech from taking over the country's largest microchip factory Nexperia. "In 2021, South Korea supplied around USD 76.8 billion, or 60 per cent of its total microchips exported to China. But one year after its usual semiconductor business with Beijing, Seoul, according to South China Morning Post, is under pressure to side with the US-led alliance in stopping China from getting high-quality chips. However, South Korean semiconductor manufacturers Samsung and SK Hynix which have factories in China have been granted a year-long exception from US export restrictions," reported IPCSC. (ANI) The High Commission of India in London tweeted and informed about the same and said that the governments of both countries value strengthening strategic partnerships in trade, defence, Science and Technology. "A special gesture by PM @rishisunak to join for a while NSA dialogue btwn Sir Tim Barrow & Mr Doval at @cabinetofficeuk. Deeply value PM's assurance of his Govts full support to deepen strategic partnership in trade, defence, S&T. Look forward to visit of Sir Tim to soon," the High Commission of India in London tweeted. National Security Advisor Ajit Doval is set to meet his UK counterpart Tim Barrow in London, sources said. In September 2022, Tim Barrow was chosen to serve as the National Security Adviser of the UK. China has tightened restrictions on Tibetan residents of Sichuan province's Drago county. The county has long been the centre of resistance to Chinese rule. The Chinese government has therefore imposed measures to prevent the resident's contact with people outside the area, sources with knowledge of the situation said, Radio Free Asia (RFA) reported. According to RFA, the communications clampdown in Drago county is the latest measure by Chinese authorities to bring locals to heel following the demolitions of huge Buddha statues in the area in 2021, sources in the region said. Drago county is called Luhuo in Chinese and lies in the Kardze Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture in Sichuan province, the historical Tibetan province of Kham. "Beginning January this year, local Chinese authorities in Drago county have warned Tibetans living in the region to stop communicating with people outside Tibet," according to a source quoted by RFA. "Their cell phones are randomly probed and restricted from sharing any kinds of information with the outside," he said. "They are also not allowed to contact their family members or send money," the source said. Chinese authorities have ramped up repression of Tibetans and have been destroying significant religious structures while committing severe human rights violations in Drago county, according to a report issued in January by Free Tibet and its affiliated research arm Tibet Watch. The demolition of Tibetan Buddhist sites escalated under Drago county Communist Party chief Wang Dongsheng, who had earlier overseen a campaign for the expulsion of Buddhist clergy and destruction at Sichuan's sprawling Larung Gar Buddhist Academy. "Ever since Wang Dongsheng was appointed as county chief in Drago, the campaign against the Tibetans has gone from bad to worse," said another Tibetan who declined to be identified for fear of his safety, according to RFA. "There have been massive communication clampdowns and other security measures have also been put into place. The staff and those with authority in the monasteries have been forced to attend re-education programs," he said. A London-based non-profit independent think tank Open Forum organised a webinar on January 26 addressing the atrocities that China is making Tibetans go through. In the webinar, Tibet's activists in exile and campaign groups expressed how "systematically," and "brazenly" China is crushing Tibet's identity and culture when the world is busy doing trade with it. Imagine demolishing the home you built with your own hand. This is the predicament of Tibetans living in the Drago county of the Tibetan province of Kham, 'known for their strong cultural and religious heritage, according to a ground-breaking report released by the London-based non-profit organization, Free Tibet on 23 January 2023 along with their charitable research arm, Tibet Watch. (ANI) Ziauddin Yousafzai, father of Nobel Peace Prize winner Malala Yousafzai in response to Pakistan's Ambassador to UN Munir Akram's comments on Pashtuns said that his comments are "disgraceful" and he should apologize to 50 million Pashtuns in Pakistan, Afghanistan based News Agency Khaama Press reported. Munir Akram had in a UN meeting said that the restrictions being put by the Taliban on Afghanistan flow not so much from a religious perspective as from a peculiar cultural perspective of the Pashtun culture. "And this is a peculiar, distinctive cultural reality of Afghanistan which has not changed for hundreds of years," Akram had said. Yousafzai in response said that the remarks of Pakistan's envoy to the UN are shameful and he should apologize to 50 million Pashtuns in Pakistan, Khaama Press reported "You did not even exist when Ghazi Amanullah Khan established girls' schools in Afghanistan in 1921," Yousafzai said. He added that Akram's comments are biased, and stated that four million girls were studying in schools and universities in Afghanistan, and thousands of girls' schools and universities are active in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Meanwhile, Nasir Ahmad Fayeeq Afghanistan Representative to the UN has said that restrictions on Afghan women and girls are rooted in "Taliban Culture", and it has nothing to do with the culture of Afghanistan, Khaama Press reported. Recently, Jessica Kroner for Peace for Asia, wrote that over a few years, the unrest in Pakistan's Federally Administered Tribal Area (FATA) has resulted in the securitization of the Pashtun identity and stereotyped the tribals as terrorists. The process began at the time of General Pervez Musharraf and continued with the security establishment's media influence campaigns. The Pakistan Army has abused its power and used the legal system and its control over the administrative levers to aggressively target the Pashtuns risking the inflammation of social divisions in the country. A large number of Pashtuns in September 2022, participated in a protest outside the United Nations to raise the human rights violations in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. The demonstration was organised by the Pashtun Tahafuz Movement (PTM) during the ongoing 51st session of the UN Human Rights Council. The participants, including the Afghan Pashtuns, raised slogans decrying Pakistan for supporting terror groups and carrying out atrocities on the Pashtuns. (ANI) Organizer World Sindhi Congress United Kingdom and Europe, Hidayat Bhutto on Tuesday said that enforced disappearances are still continuing in Pakistan's Sindh province and that until now thousands of Sindhis, political workers, and human rights activists have disappeared. "The practice of enforced disappearance is still going on and hundreds and thousands of Sindhis, political workers, human rights activists have disappeared," Bhutto said during the CHRAPA side event on the Universal Periodic Review (UPR) Process in Pakistan. The human rights activist disregarded the claims made by Sindh authorities of resolving 7,000 out of 9,200 cases of enforced disappearance. He questioned the claims by asking how many people have been punished if 7,000 cases of disappearances have been resolved. He further added that the regime is involved in protecting the real culprits. Bhutto during the World Sindhi Congress (WSC) organised cabinet meeting in the United Kingdom, said that claims that Pakistan is developed, are false. Everybody knows what is happening in Pakistan, including the United Nations. "The working group of UN on enforced disappearances and involuntary disappearances, including eight more special reporters have jointly raised their concerns in a joint statement which was made public in 2021," Bhutto said. "The culture of immunity, impunity is there in Pakistan which was recognized by the United Nations itself and its eight reporters have raised many concerns about the Sindhis in Sindh," the WSC Organiser said. The event in the UK was organised on the sidelines of the Universal Periodic Review of Pakistan done by the United Nations to judge the human rights violations by the country. Bhutto also stressed that the blasphemy law which should be abolished has instead been made even more strict. Bhutto further mentioned the critical state of religious minorities like Hindus in Sindh and highlighted that there have been many cases of the enforced disappearance of these minorities. Earlier, the WSC had protested against the firing by Pakistan Rangers and police on a peaceful gathering in Sann, organised to pay tribute to Sain GM Syed on his 119th birthday anniversary. A local media outlet reported that the Sindhis protested against indiscriminate firing by the Pakistani forces during the peaceful celebration of Sain GM Syed's birthday at Sann, a small town and union council located in Manjhand taluka of Jamshoro District, Sindh. Pakistani establishment tried everything to stop Sindhis from celebrating Sain GM Syed's birthday on January 17. The authorities imposed Section 144, and the buses and trucks ferrying people were also stopped. (ANI) US President Joe Biden said that his administration will "take care" of the suspected Chinese spy balloon hovering over the eastern United States, CNN reported. He made the remarks at an airfield in Syracuse in New York, where he is visiting a family. When questioned whether he will shoot down the balloon, Biden said, "We're gonna take care of it," according to CNN. US President has been discussing options with military brass after he was briefed about the balloon on Tuesday. His advisors have warned against shooting the balloon down as debris could end up on homes or people. The suspected Chinese balloon has been spotted in the skies over York County, South Carolina, after crossing over state lines from North Carolina, the York County Sheriff's Office informed in a tweet. It further warned residents against shooting the balloon. "That's no moon. Yes, there are reports that the Chinese balloon is flying over our area at the moment. It's flying at 60,000+ feet. Don't try to shoot it!! Your rifle rounds WILL NOT reach it. Be responsible. What goes up will come down, including your bullets," the York County Sheriff's Office wrote in a tweet. The Federal Aviation Administration has extended a ground stop for three airports in the Carolinas to 3:30 pm (local time). The FAA had earlier issued a ground stop for airports from 12:45 pm to 2:45 pm (local time) to support the US Department of Defence in "national security efforts," as per the CNN report. The airports affected are Wilmington in North Carolina, Charleston in South Carolina, and Myrtle Beach in South Carolina. "The FAA has paused departures to Wilmington (ILM), Myrtle Beach International (MYR) and Charleston International (CHS) airports to support the Department of Defense in a national security effort," FAA announced in a statement. The US administration had restricted airspace near Myrtle Beach between 12:45 p.m. and 2:45 pm (local time). All flights that meet specific criteria must stay on the ground during a ground stop. The FAA made the announcement as the balloon was spotted over various parts of the Carolinas on Saturday. (ANI) Amid a surge in COVID-19 cases in China, North Korean defectors are unable to receive treatment even after facing serious coronavirus symptoms, Daily NK reported. COVID-19 is spreading in Chinese cities and in China's countryside, Daily NK reported citing a source in China. The source revealed that North Korean defectors in China cannot receive treatment even if they are infected with the coronavirus. "North Korean defectors in China can't receive treatment even if they are infected [with the virus]," Daily NK quoted a source in China as saying. The source revealed that North Korean defectors in China had not received a single dose of vaccine since the pandemic began. As per the news report, people need to have an identity card to get vaccinated in China. So, North Korean defectors who do not possess IDs cannot get vaccinated, even if they wish for it. Defectors living in agricultural villages are often not aware that home diagnostic kits for COVID-10 exists. One defector who resides in an undisclosed area of China said that defectors take cold medicine as they cannot get themselves tested even if they are infected with COVID-19, Daily NK reported. "We can't go anywhere without a vaccination certificate, but since we have no IDs, we can't even think about getting vaccinations," Daily NK quoted one defector as saying. Another defector living in an undisclosed part of China said that she does not have ID even after living in China for more than 10 years and having children in the country. She said that she has not received a single dose of vaccine, according to the news report. "I've been unable to receive even a single vaccination shot during the last three years, and if I catch COVID-19, I have no choice but to bear it out at home," Daily NK quoted her as saying. Amid the ongoing situation, the number of defectors residing in China who wish to visit South Korea has witnessed a rise since the beginning of the pandemic. Several defectors have landed in prison after Chinese police arrested them while they tried to go to South Korea, Daily NK reported citing a source. Citing the source, the report said that many defectors in China have started expressing their despair about not being officially recognized by the Chinese government. The source further claimed that defectors are suffering more than other Chinese people as they are yet to receive a single dose of vaccine. Citing the source, the report said that "some defectors have even died after suffering from COVID-19 symptoms." (ANI) Tibetan rights groups Free Tibet Organisation, Students for Free Tibet (SFT) and International Tibet Network (ITN) have launched a week of global action against Thermo Fisher Scientific for supplying DNA kits to the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), Phayul reported. They condemned the US-based company for selling DNA kits and their continuous technical assistance to the Chinese police in Tibet. Thermo Fisher Scientific is a Massachusetts-based company which supplies DNA kits to the Chinese Communist Party, allowing forced collection of samples and biometric surveillance across Tibet, according to Phayul. In a post on their social media handle, the rights group said that a petition to hold the company accountable for their complicity in the CCP's human rights abuses is underway. The campaign condemned the company for keeping profit before people by selling DNA kits and their continuous technical assistance to the Chinese police forces in Tibet. The campaign #HandsOffTibetansDNA has called on Thermo Fisher Scientific's CEO Marc Casper and the company's Vice President and CEO of Thermo Fisher, Sandy Pound to immediately stop the supply of DNA kits to China, as per the Phayul report. Free Tibet Organisation, Tibetan Community in Britain went to Thermo Fisher UK headquarters to speak with its employees to raise awareness about the company's "unethical profiteering" over the Tibetan's illegal mass DNA, as per the news report. The London-based rights group also visited the Chinese embassy and university science campuses to raise awareness regarding their campaign. Many Tibetan student activists and campaigners continue their protest on the streets to educate the employees about the company's participation in mass DNA collection using their DNA kits supplied to the Chinese authorities in Tibet, according to Phayul. Youth activists around the world on their social media handles posted pictures of their hands imprinted with the hashtag HandOffTibetanDNA to show their support for the campaign. As part of a global week of action campaign at McLeod square in Dharamshala on Wednesday, Tibetan Women's Association (TWA) organised a petition drive to ask Thermo Fisher to stop their supply of DNA kits to the Chinese government. Tenzin Yangzom, grassroots director at Students for Free Tibet, said Tibet is under "complete lockdown and one of the most repressed places in the world," according to Phayul. "Tibet is already under complete lockdown, a total police state and one of the most repressed places in the world. The news about Thermo Fisher didn't come as a surprise to us as Tibet activists; further repression should be alarming to the global community," Phayul quoted Tenzin Yangzom as saying. (ANI) At least one person is dead after a home caught fire on Friday night. Atlanta firefighters were called to a home on Carter Ave. SE around 9:45 p.m. to reports of a person trapped inside the home. [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] When they arrived, fire crews found heavy fire coming out of the back of the home and heavy smoke coming out of the home from all sides, Assistant Fire Chief Greg Gray. Fire officials have confirmed that one person died from their injuries. The victims identity has not been released. TRENDING STORIES: They say nine people lived in the home and eight of them were able to escape. Fire officials have not commented on how the fire began. [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] IN OTHER NEWS: A judges gavel striking a piggy bank. I love my screenreader friends. Cash rules everything around me You hear about class-action lawsuits all the time, like this one filed against Apple (based on a Gizmodo story!), or this other one against Apple (or this one or this one). Part of the reason is theyre so lucrative for lawyers; a class is a group of people who have the same grievance against a company, which means theres a lot of money involved if the company loses or settles. But when theres money on the table, its not guaranteed youll receive a payment. Its often up to qualifying members of that class to file a claim. That can be as simple as filling out a quick form online. Please, dont lie on these forms, because theyre legal documents. You should also be aware that youre waiving the right to file your own separate lawsuit if you join the class. Read more You just have to know where to look. One resource is classaction.org. The site is a database on ongoing investigations and lawsuits, as well as settlements with links to claim your rebate. In many cases, companies get to keep the money that class members dont claim. That means the clock is ticking. Payouts are split up among the qualifying class members, so unless the harms were extreme (think serious injury or a major financial loss) you usually shouldnt expect much. But cash is cash. Sometimes theyll even put it straight into your PayPal account. Here are lawsuits weve found with large classes that a lot of Gizmodo readers may be a part of. Were talking people who purchased MacBooks with a butterfly keyboard, the 147 million people affected by the Equifax data breach, buyers of certain Nestle coffee creamers, and more. (If youre outside the U.S., I cant help you, but at least your healthcare system is better than ours.) Wesson Cooking Oil Three bottles of Wesson cooking oil. Grease me up Story continues Have you ever purchased Wesson brand cooking oil? Its pretty popular, so chances are good you have. You might have money on the table if youre a resident of 11 different states including California, Florida, Illinois, New York, and Texas and you bought certain cooking oils between 2006 and 2017, depending on the state. The lawsuit alleges Wessons parent company Conagra Foods broke the law by misrepresenting cooking oil made from GMOs as natural. Conagra denies any wrongdoing. You have until May 22, 2023 to file a claim. You can find details here. Celsius Energy Drinks Celcius energy drinks chilling on a pile of ice. These lawsuits are making me thirsty. Celsius energy drinks are clinically proven to function, whatever that means. Some Celsius products contain citric acid, a weak colorless chemical that occurs naturally in many fruits. Its a very common ingredient, but what for? Well, a lawsuit says citric acid is a preservative, which would be a problem, because Celsius products are labeled No Preservatives. The company, however, says it used the acid as a flavoring, not a preservative, and denies any wrongdoing. If youre a huge fan of Celsius, there could be a nice chunk of change here, between $1 and $250, depending on your circumstances. Without a receipt though, that maximum award is $20. You can file a claim or exclude yourself from the class until February 23, 2023, find out more on the settlement website. Ubers Wait Time Fees For People With Disabilities A vintage black-and-white photo of a woman helping a man in a wheelchari get into a custom made car. Tryna make that cash accessible The Department of Justice sued Uber, alleging violations of the Americans With Disabilities Act for charging a wait time fee for riders who needed extra time to get in the car. Uber denies any wrongdoing (notice a theme here?). Uber agreed to a settlement. The company waived those wait time fees for riders with disabilities going forward (but you have to opt-in, find the details here). Qualifying class members can also get a refund for double the amount of any fees they paid in the past. You can claim your money on Ubers website linked above, on the dedicated settlement website, and by mail: e- or snail. But you only have to submit one time by whatever method you chose. Find info on the settlement website, WaitTimeFeeSettlement.com. The deadline to file a claim is April 24, 2023. American Airlines Baggage Fees An American Airlines bag drop counter Gonna need a new suitcase to store all this cash! Remember when checking a bag was free? What the hell happened to air travel? In general, when you buy a plane ticket, youre also entering into a contract with the airline. According to a lawsuit, from 2017 to 2020, American Airlines contract with ticket holders said you could check a certain number of bags free, but some people were charged baggage fees anyway. Say it with me, class: American Airlines denies any wrongdoing. But it did agree to this settlement. The deadline to file a claim is February 22, 2023. Thinx Period Underwear An illustration of a PFAS "forever checmical" Youre going to have so much money ($21) that youll forget all about this dangerous chemical. PFAS, short for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are often referred to as forever chemicals because their chemical bonds are so strong that they are extremely hard to break down and get rid of. Thats a shame, because they cause cancer and other problems, and theyre so widely used in manufacturing they are now inside almost every living thing on planet earth. PFAS are in your body right now. Sorry. PFAS are in the water, soil, and food all over the world, not to mention tons of products. McDonalds uses PFAS in its food containers, but dont worry, the company says it will phase them out by 2025. No rush, fellas, we can wait. Theyre also, according to a lawsuit, in Thinx period underwear, which is particularly and harshly ironic, because PFAS can cause fertility problems. Despite investigations that found lots of PFAS in Thinx products, the company denies that its ever used PFAS. Thinkx agreed to a settlement. For your trouble, Thinx customers can get a refund for up to three pairs of underwear, topping out a measly $21. Better than nothing? The deadline to file a claim is April 12, 2023. Apples Butterfly Bamboozle An Apple laptop. This broken little laptop just wants you to have free cash. Last year, Apple settled a lawsuit with $33 million of which was set aside for qualifying Mac users. If you bought a MacBook between 2015 and 2019 in California, Florida, Illinois, Michigan, New Jersey, New York, or Washington, you probably qualify. Its a nice payout too, either $50, $125, or $395. For half a decade, Apple used keyboards on its laptops that broke all the time. Why? Sure seems like the problem was bad design. But dont worry, because if you had a problem, you could just go to the Apple store and pay a fee to fix the faulty product the most valuable company in the world sold you. Apple denies any wrongdoing, obviously. Head to this website and file a claim by March 6, 2023. Maybe Tim Apple will personally send you a check. AT&Ts Unlimited Data Plan The AT&T logo on a store. Might have used up all my data looking up ways to get more cash! Spout off in the comments and tell me what you think the word unlimited means. If you guessed limited, then youre a winner! (If you were an AT&T customer between October 1, 2011 and June 30, 2015.) Unfortunately for American Telephone and Telegraphdid you know thats what AT&T stands forwords have meaning, so somebody sued them on behalf of their phone plan compatriots. If youre still with AT&T, then you shouldve received a credit on your bill already. You might have gotten a check from the company already as well. If you didnt, you have until May 18, 2023 to fill out this form. Avid/Budget Rental Car Toll Fees An advertisement for Budget and Avis With all this cash you can rent even more cars! Heres one you might fall into if you rented a car between 2007 and 2015 in the United States from Avis or Budget and paid to use their e-Toll system. The deadline is February 28, 2023. File a claim here. Equifax Data Breach The Equifax logo on a phone, superimposed on a background of one's and zero's. Oh no, we leaked all your data to people who want to steal your cash! Everyone has a credit score. Guess how the credit rating agencies come up with it. Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion are data brokers. They harvest your personal financial information and sell access to it. Sometimes that that starts before youre even born. Did you ask Equifax to spy on you to help banks and landlords make more money? Me neither! Too bad. They did it anyway, and then whoops, they leaked the data on 147 million Americans, exposing social security numbers and other information. That sparked a wave of identity theft. The good news is you can get a very small amount of money if you were or are victimized between January 23, 2020 and January 22, 2024. The future is bright! You can file a claim here. Nestle Coffee Mate Powder Cream Product(s) The Nestle logo on the side of a building. I didnt know Nestle has such a cute logo. But you know whats cuter? Cash. Missouri resident Nicholas Cahill likes to get his moneys worth, apparently, and he decided to get litigious about it. He sued Nestle because certain Coffeemate powder creamer product(s) didnt always contain as many servings as the labels said they did, as measured by the recommended serving sizes, according to the lawsuit. Does this make you as angry as it made Nicholas? Well, justice has been served. Or maybe it hasnt, because the court didnt decide and, guess what, Nestle denies any wrongdoing. If you bought qualifying powder creamer products between January 1, 2017, and December 8, 2022, though, Nestle will send you cash. You can find the list of relevant creamers here. The deadline to file a claim is March 14, 2023. More from Gizmodo Sign up for Gizmodo's Newsletter. For the latest news, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Click here to read the full article. Performers from Thailand dance at the annual Lunar New Year celebration Chingay parade, which has been held since 1973, in Singapore on Feb. 3, 2023. (Photo by Then Chih Wey/Xinhua) Performers dance at the annual Lunar New Year celebration Chingay parade, which has been held since 1973, in Singapore on Feb. 3, 2023. (Photo by Then Chih Wey/Xinhua) Performers from Japan dance at the annual Lunar New Year celebration Chingay parade, which has been held since 1973, in Singapore on Feb. 3, 2023. (Photo by Then Chih Wey/Xinhua) Spectators watch the fireworks show at the annual Lunar New Year celebration Chingay parade, which has been held since 1973, in Singapore on Feb. 3, 2023. (Photo by Then Chih Wey/Xinhua) 116 Ukrainian military personnel were freed from Russian captivity and returned to Ukraine in a prisoner exchange, head of Ukraines presidential office Andriy Yermak reported on Feb. 4. The returned Ukrainian prisoners of war included services members of Ukraines Armed Forces, territorial defense units, naval forces, State Border Guard Service, National Guard, National Police, and Special Operations Forces. Two of the 116 were officers, while the rest were privates and sergeants. We managed to return 116 of our people, defenders of Mariupol, Kherson partisans, snipers from the Bakhmut direction, and other heroes, he said. On the other side of the swap, 63 Russian soldiers were returned from Ukrainian-controlled territory, according to Russian state news agency RIA Novosti, citing the Russian defense ministry. Along with the POWs, the bodies of British volunteers Andrew Bagshaw and Chris Parry, as well as the body of Yevhen Kulyk a volunteer soldier who served in the French Foreign Legion but returned to defend Ukraine after Feb. 24, Yermak said. British volunteers Bagshaw and Parry went missing during an evacuation mission in the neighboring town of Soledar. Several weeks later, both were confirmed by their families to have been killed in Soledar, caught up in the Russian assault on the city. At least 3,392 Ukrainian soldiers and civilians remain in Russian captivity as of Jan. 3, according to Alyona Verbytska, the Presidents Commissioner for Protecting Defenders Rights. These are the numbers that Russia has officially confirmed, she said. Ukraine retrieved nearly 1,600 prisoners of war in 2022, according to the Ministry for Reintegration of Temporarily Occupied Territories. In the most recent prisoner exchange on Jan. 8, Yermak reported that 50 Ukrainian military personnel were freed from Russian captivity. 116 Ukrainian military personnel were freed from Russian captivity and returned to Ukraine in a prisoner exchange, head of Ukraines presidential office Andriy Yermak reported on Feb. 4. The returned Ukrainian prisoners of war included services members of Ukraines Armed Forces, territorial defense units, naval forces, State Border Guard Service, National Guard, National Police, and Special Operations Forces. Two of the 116 were officers, while the rest were privates and sergeants. We managed to return 116 of our people, defenders of Mariupol, Kherson partisans, snipers from the Bakhmut direction, and other heroes, he said. On the other side of the swap, 63 Russian soldiers were returned from Ukrainian-controlled territory, according to Russian state news agency RIA Novosti, citing the Russian defense ministry. Along with the POWs, the bodies of British volunteers Andrew Bagshaw and Chris Parry, as well as the body of Yevhen Kulyk a volunteer soldier who served in the French Foreign Legion but returned to defend Ukraine after Feb. 24, Yermak said. British volunteers Bagshaw and Parry went missing during an evacuation mission in the neighboring town of Soledar. Several weeks later, both were confirmed by their families to have been killed in Soledar, caught up in the Russian assault on the city. The exact circumstances of their deaths remain unknown. At least 3,392 Ukrainian soldiers and civilians remain in Russian captivity as of Jan. 3, according to Alyona Verbytska, the Presidents Commissioner for Protecting Defenders Rights. These are the numbers that Russia has officially confirmed, she said. Ukraine retrieved nearly 1,600 prisoners of war in 2022, according to the Ministry for Reintegration of Temporarily Occupied Territories. In the most recent prisoner exchange on Jan. 8, Yermak reported that 50 Ukrainian military personnel were freed from Russian captivity. Dallas police are investigating three separate shootings that left one man dead and two others wounded Friday night, officials said. Officers responded to a shooting call in the 13200 block of Spanish Bay Court in the Rylie neighborhood shortly after 11 p.m., police said. They found a man with multiple gunshot wounds, who later died from his injuries. Police did not identify the victim and said the shooter is still unknown. Another man was shot in the leg after getting caught in the crossfire between a security guard and an armed suspect in the 11000 block of the Lyndon B. Johnson Freeway service road. Police said a security guard escorted the suspect out of a business at that location around 11:15 p.m. The suspect got in a vehicle and fired a weapon at the guard. The guard returned fire, but the suspect fled the scene. A man coming out of the business was hit in the leg with a bullet. Police said he was taken to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. Around 9:30 p.m., officers responded to a local hospital in the 3200 block of Gaston Avenue in response to a shooting victim. Police said a man arrived at the hospital with a gunshot wound to the leg. The victim isnt cooperating with the investigation, according to police. Its not clear where or when the shooting took place. Insider spoke to Mary Bonnet and Maya Vander. Axelle/Bauer-Griffin / Contributor / Jeff Kravitz / Contributor / Getty Images It can be hard to know where to invest your money when preparing to sell your home. Insider spoke to "Selling Sunset" stars Mary Bonnet and Maya Vander about renovations that aren't worth it. It's not worth adding new decor before you sell, and you may not need to buy new appliances. Buying and selling a home is often an emotional process for people, but at the end of the day, it's a financial decision. And if you're selling your property, it's important to make changes to your home that will increase its resale value. But people who aren't experienced in the world of real estate may struggle to know what they should and shouldn't spend money on when getting their home prepared for a sale. Insider spoke to stars of Netflix's "Selling Sunset" and real-estate experts Mary Bonnet (nee Fitzgerald) and Maya Vander about the home improvements sellers can skip before listing their homes. You may not have to splurge on brand-new appliances Both Bonnet and Vander, who left the Netflix series and the Oppenheim Group after season 5 to work at a different brokerage in Miami, told Insider that you should look towards your kitchen when you're preparing to sell your home. "If you have a completely dated bathroom and kitchen and you want any model to increase value, those are the first two locations I would recommend people to focus on," Vander said. But that doesn't mean you have to spend thousands of dollars on a brand-new refrigerator, stove, and wine fridge. Appliances don't need to be replaced if they look new. Tony Anderson / Getty Images As Bonnet said, appliances that look fairly new will usually be enough for buyers. "You can get away with it they still look good," Bonnet said. "If they're stainless steel refrigerators that are just five years old or something that's in good condition, you can get away with working around it." However, appliances that look dated likely need to be replaced to maintain the value of a home. Story continues "If you got a 1990 white fridge or that old yellow kind, get rid of it," Bonnet said. Be careful when you make changes to your floors When you're putting your home up for sale, it's important for it to look new and clean, particularly features like floors and walls, as both Bonnet and Vander told Insider. But you shouldn't rush to replace your floors if the home has good studs. For instance, Bonnet said someone would be an "idiot" if they had "really nice but old original hardwood floors, and they ripped them up and put laminate in." In that scenario, it would be better to refinish the floors rather than replace them, as the hardwood would be attractive to buyers. But Vander said it's always worth the value of the home to replace carpet in your homes, as they're not appealing to buyers. "People don't like carpets," she said. Bonnet agreed, saying "nice hardwood floors are always a great idea. You never lose money on that." "The bigger the plank and longer is worth more," she added. "If you see tiny planks that are short and skinny, those are cheaper." It's better to get rid of things rather than add decorations When you imagine sprucing up your home, you may think of adding art you love or new photos of your family. But for potential buyers, pictures of your family or your statement sculptures might make it difficult for them to imagine themselves living in the home. Vander told Insider it's "very important" to declutter your home before you start showing it to potential buyers. "Don't collect things. Make it look presentable," she said. "People get offended when you tell them that because they have pictures and a bunch of stuff, and for them it's amazing and makes it look like home. But for buyers who will come and look at it, it might look too personal and it might turn them off." A cluttered home is hard to sell. DGLimages / Getty Images So instead of investing money in decor, spend money on cleaning out your home and making aesthetic changes that will help it sell. Bonnet also said you could invest in staging instead of adding decorations to your home, as stagers know how to make a home look beautiful for a wide audience. "Most buyers don't have vision," she said. "You have to show them what the possibility is because they can't see past what it is." Read the original article on Insider It might sound obvious, but getting nominated for an Oscar doesnt automatically make a film good. In fact, there have been many deserving movies over the years that were somehow overlooked by the Academy. While its easy to assume that certain films dont get nominated because theyre not what voters of the Oscars would usually go for, there have been a lot of surprises in the past. For example, pretty much every new superhero film earns a nomination thanks to the technical or makeup categories, while random animated films are acknowledged most likely because of the low number on offer in a certain year. This means films like DCs Suicide Squad may have been mauled by the critics, but will still get recognised by the Academy (it went on to win), which is ridiculous when you consider classics such as The Good, the Bad and the Ugly and The Shining never got nominated. They arent alone weve run through the 47 most surprising oversights. 1. American Honey (2016) From appearing as a backing dancer on Top of the Pops to winning an Oscar for Best Director: it would have been a brilliant trajectory for Andrea Arnold following the release of American Honey, a drama following a teenage girl (Sasha Lane) who gets caught up in the wrong crowd. Arnolds day may and should still come. 2. American Psycho (2000) Starring future Oscar winner Christian Bale, Mary Harrons adaptation of the Bret Easton Ellis novel in which the actor plays the psychopathic Patrick Bateman - didnt receive a single nomination. 3. Babyteeth (2019) Babyteeth, which was shot in 2019 but released in the US in 2020, was one of the best films of its year. The films leads Eliza Scanlen, Toby Wallace, Essie Davis and Ben Mendelsohn all deserved acting nominations, but apparentlys voters never watched it. Eliza Scanlen and Toby Wallace in Babyteeth (Picturehouse Entertainment) 4. Before Sunrise (1995) While the final two chapters of Richard Linklaters Before trilogy earned screenplay nominations, the film that introduced the world to future married couple Jesse (Ethan Hawke) and Celine (Julie Delpy) was criminally overlooked. Story continues 5. The Big Heat (1953) Fritz Lang had a number of films overlooked by the Academy (see: M, 1931; You Only Live Once, 193. While this noir, starring Glenn Ford, Lee Marvin and and Gloria Grahame, is a film youd expect to have been nominated, it became yet another film to receive no recognition from the awards body. 6. The Big Lebowski (1998) The Academys generosity to the Coen brothers peaked when No Country for Old Men beat There Will Be Blood in one of the ceremonys closest Best Picture races of all time. It remains surprising that one of their few films to evade any nominations is this endlessly-quotable comedy starring Jeff Bridges as The Dude. Jeff Bridges in the Coen brotherss The Big Lebowski (Netflix) 7. Blow Out (1981) Brian De Palma doesnt exactly make films in the hope of winning awards, but his political thriller based on Michelangelo Antonionis Blow Up would have deserved any Oscar it was nominated for. 8. Breathless (A bout de souffle) (1960) Breathless failure to receive a nomination is proof of why the Oscars do not generate huge amounts of respect among the film community. Despite being one of the most studied films in the world, Jean Luc-Godards French masterpiece has an Academy Award tally of zero. 9. Bringing Up Baby (1938) The Academy rewarded many notable screwball comedies over the years, though this Howard Hawks-directed standout starring Cary Grant and Katharine Hepburn whod go on to hold the record for most wins wasnt one of them. 10. Dont Look Now (1973) It seems the Oscars only had room for one horror film at the 1973 ceremony, with The Exorcist winning two Oscars that year despite Nicolas Roegs Venice-set chiller failing to secure a single nomination. In fact, Nicolas Roeg, who directed this Venice-set chiller, is one of the most unfairly overlooked directors in Oscars history. 11. Frances Ha (2012) Looking back over the 2010s, Noah Baumbachs Frances Ha stands tall as one of the decades best films. Greta Gerwigs spirited performance as an aimless New Yorker is an all-timer, and even if that years acting categories were too crowded, it would have assimilated in nicely with that years (10!) Best Picture nominees. Gerwig would go on to become a Best Director nominee for her 2017 film Lady Bird. Greta Gerwig in Frances Ha 12. The Good, the Bad and the Ugly (1966) It wouldnt be until the 1990s that western films found favour with the Academy. It was ironically thanks to Unforgiven, a film directed by Clint Eastwood whose career flourished after starring in this Sergio Leone film that many consider to be the genres peak. 13. La Haine (1995) Mathieu Kassovitzs black-and-white drama translated in English as Hate follows three young friends and their struggles living in the suburbs of Paris. Looking back at the nominees of that year, it should easily have received a nod in the Best International Feature Film category. 14. Halloween (1978) The Academy may not be enthusiastic about constantly awarding horror films, but they do have previous (see: The Exorcist and The Silence of the Lamb and Get Out). This makes the absence of John Carpenters influential Halloween even more of a glaring oversight. 15. Heat (1995) On paper, the big screen union of Robert De Niro and Al Pacino in Michael Manns cop drama was a shoo-in for awards, but no Oscar nominations manifested. 16. His Girl Friday (1940) Yet another Howard Hawks screwball comedy starring Cary Grant that criminally failed to secure a single Oscar nomination. 17. In the Mood for Love (2000) Wong Kar-wai set the benchmark for romance in film with his acclaimed Hong Kong drama following a man and woman (Tony Leung and Maggie Cheung) who develop feelings for one another after suspecting their respective spouses of having an affair together. Maggie Cheung and Tony Leung in Wong Kar-wais In the Mood for Love (defd Deutscher Fernsehdienst) 18. Insomnia (2002) While falling short of Christopher Nolans best, modest drama Insomnia made years before Batman Begins had enough strong performances (Al Pacino, Robin Wiliams, Hilary Swank) to warrant acting nominations. Alas, it received none. 19. The King of Comedy (1982) It may have taken him decades to win an Oscar, but the Academy has rarely balked at nominating Martin Scorsese films especially for ones that star Robert De Niro. The King of Comedy was an exception. 20. The Long Goodbye (1973) The first of two Robert Altman films on this list. This superior thriller stars Elliott Gould as Raymond Chandlers private investigator, Philip Marlowe, in one of the directors most entertaining films and is just as good as any other film nominated that year (see: American Graffiti, The Sting, Cries and Whispers). 21. Local Hero (1983) Bill Forsyths beloved comedy-drama follows the mishaps of an American man sent to buy up a Scottish village where the oil company he works for wants to build a refinery. Forsyth won the Bafta for Best Director, but the film received no such love from the Academy. 22. A Man Escaped (1956) Robert Bressons adaptation of Andre Devignys memoirs charts the French Resistance members time as prisoner of the Germans during the Second World War and is even more enthralling considering Bresson himself was held captive years before. 23. The Man With Two Brains (1983) He may have hosted several times, but Steve Martin has never been nominated for an Oscar. One film he deserved recognition for was Carl Reiners 1983 sci-fi comedy, The Man with Two Brains. 24. Margaret (2011) Kenneth Lonergan would go on to win an Oscar for Manchester by the Sea, but Margaret - his three-hour drama featuring a searing performance from Anna Paquin and wife J Smith Cameron criminally failed to secure a single nomination. 25. A Matter of Life and Death (1946) The Academy Film Archive may have preserved A Matter of Life and Death in 1999, but voters failed to recognise the Powell & Pressburgers fantasy-romance at the time of its release in 1946. 26. Memories of Murder (2003) Before Parasite, there was Memories of Murder. Bong Joon-ho has been making incredible films for decades now, and this sprawling and highly-influential crime thriller is just as good as Parasite, which brilliantly won Best Picture in 2020. 27. Never Rarely Sometimes Always The fact Sidney Flanagan isnt an Oscar winner for Eliza Hittmans drama, following a young girl who seeks medical help after an unwanted pregnancy, is outrageous. Sidney Flanagan in Never Rarely Sometimes Always (AP) 28. Night Moves (1975) Gene Hackman starred in numerous Oscar nominated films (see: The French Connection, Mississippi Burning, Unforgiven), but Night Moves should be on that list. A twist-filled crime film with an ending for the ages, its more than worthy of a mention alongside Hackmans greatest films. 29. Mishima: A Life in Four Chapters (1985) Its quite staggering to think that Paul Schrader has only ever received one Oscar nomination for his First Reformed screenplay considering he was behind such films as Blue Collar and Martin Scorseses Taxi Driver and Raging Bull. His fictionalised account of the life of celebrated Japanese writer Yukio Mishima is one such film that would have been a worthy winner, let alone nominee. 30. Once Upon a Time in America (1984) Though its by no means a masterpiece, its staggering to think that Sergio Leones gangster epic starring Robert De Niro and Joe Pesci didnt receive any Oscar nominations. Not even composer Ennio Morricone received one but this was due to his score being disqualified from consideration after Warner Bros accidentally omitted the composers name from the opening credits when trimming the films lengthy running time for its American release. 31. Our Little Sister (2015) Japanese filmmaker Hirokazu Kore-eda finally broke onto the Oscars scene when Shoplifters was nominated for Best International Feature Film in 2019. In truth, Kore-eda should have several nominations to his name. Our Little Sister, his tender 2015 drama, would have made an excellent nominee. 32. Paterson (2016) Critics assumed Jim Jarmuschs Paterson would have been a shoo-in for awards recognition most notably in the Best Actor category, thanks to a quietly fantastic performance from Adam Driver but no such luck. Adam Driver in Jim Jarmuschs Paterson 33. Paths of Glory (1957) Stanley Kubrick never won Best Director despite being nominated four times. One of his films that didnt make the Oscars cut in any category was his black-and-white anti-war film. 34. Portrait of a Lady on Fire (2019) How Celine Sciammas drama, following the love affair between two women in the late 18th century, didnt get any nominations, well never know. Its a staggering work, which ranks high up in Sciammas impressive back catalogue. 35. Reservoir Dogs (1992) Reservoir Dogs may not touch Quentin Tarantinos best, but it remains a surprise that the filmmakers debut didnt get recognised in the screenplay category, at least. 36. The Rider (2018) Of all the films to be snubbed at the 2018 Oscars, Chloe Zhaos drama - which stars a real-life rodeo cowboy and his family was easily the most egregious. 37. School of Rock (2004) Hear us out: Richard Linklaters comedy is one of the greatest films of the 21st century to date, and the fact it never got a nomination says more about the Oscars than it does about School of Rock. Jack Black has (and will) never be better as Dewey Finn, a wannabe musician who turns a classroom of kids into a rock band while pretending to be their supply teacher. He should have easily scored a Best Actor nomination. Jack Black should have got an Oscar nomination for School of Rock (Paramount) 38. The Searchers (1956) The role of Civil War veteran Ethan Edwards might be considered John Waynes best role, but the Academy didnt agree: he would win his sole Oscar for True Grit in 1970 (for the same role Jeff Bridges would be nominated for 41 years later). 39. The Shining (1980) Another Kubrick film that was completely ignored by the Academy is the directors Stephen King adaptation of The Shining. Today, its considered one of his finest works as well as being one of the most revered horror films of all time. 40. The Shop Around the Corner (1953) This Ernst Lubitsch romantic comedy, starring Margaret Sullavan and James Stewart, may be a beloved Christmas staple around the world, but it has zero Oscar nominations to its name. 41. This Is England (2006) The 2007 ceremony was not one of the Academys finest years, with The Departed beating Babel, Letters from Iwo Jima, Little Miss Sunshine and The Queen to Best Picture). would have been far better had Shane Meadows coming-of-drama been in contention for awards. 42. Tokyo Story (1953) Tokyo Story is deemed Japanese filmmaker YasujirA Ozus masterpiece and was named Sight & Sounds best film of all time in 2012 and yet, no Oscar nomination. 43. Touch of Evil (1958) Orson Welles classic noir wasnt as well loved at the time of release as it is today. It stands head and shoulders above several other films nominated during that period, so the lack of a nomination is quite surprising. 44. Tyrannosaur (2011) Olivia Colman may be in contention to win her second Oscar this year (having taken home Best Actress for The Favourite in 2019), but the fact she failed to earn a nomination (even at the Baftas, for that matter) for her role in Paddy Considines hard-hitting drama Tyrannosaur is one of the biggest oversights in awards history. 45. Walkabout (1971) Another exceptional achievement in filmmaking from Nicolas Roeg that somehow failed to receive any Oscar nominations is Walkabout. 46. You Were Never Really Here (2018) Lynne Ramsays You Were Never Really Here starring Joaquin Phoenix - is a sensational piece of work worthy of reward that was actually hotly tipped following its festival premiere. Sadly, due to shifting release dates, the film lost steam and went down in the annals as one of the best films of that year not to get a nomination in any category. You Were Never Really Here (Amazon Studio) 47. Zodiac (2007) David Finchers Mank might have been the most nominated film of 2021, but his cult serial killer drama Zodiac failed to receive a single Oscar nomination. Three years later, he would go head-to-head with (and lose out to) The King Speechs Tom Hooper for The Social Network. In truth, Zodiac is every bit as good as the Facebook drama. Other galleries you might like: 21 actors who took their roles so seriously it out of hand 37 best film twists of all time 37 actors who almost died on set A reward of up to $50,000 is being offered for information that leads to the arrest and conviction of the suspect accused of robbing a postal worker at gunpoint in Lexington earlier this week. The U.S. Postal Inspection Service announced Friday afternoon that it was offering the reward. The robbery happened on the 800 block of Spring Meadows Drive at about 12:20 p.m. Monday, when the suspect came up behind the mail carrier with a gun and demanded the letter carriers keys, Lexington police said. The postal worker complied, and the suspect left. The carriers bag was later recovered, police said in a news release. Police released photos of the suspect Thursday, saying he should be considered armed and dangerous. Both the Postal Inspection Service and the police department said anyone who locates the suspect should not try to apprehend him. Police said anyone with information should call them at (859) 258-3600. Anonymous tips can be submitted to Bluegrass Crime Stoppers by calling (859) 253-2020, visiting Bluegrasscrimestoppers.com, or using the P3 Tips app available at P3tips.com. Or, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service said anyone with information can contact them by calling 877-876-2455, saying Law Enforcement and referencing case number 3961069-ROBB. The postal service said callers information would be kept confidential. Image: Willyam Bradberry (Shutterstock) In what feels like just a few short years, advancements in generative artificial intelligence have seemingly transformed AI from a buzzword slapped onto boring business to attack investor capital into an an actual tool with clear, real -world use cases. Writer and business have already begun using image generator system like DALL-E and Stable Diffusion to create their own, low-cost in house art department. Open AIs ChatGPT chatbot, on the other hand, gave users a glimpse into a possible future internet ripe with sophisticated digital assistants able to spew out decent advice. Some even believe ChatGPT could unseat Google search. Though much of the conversation about AI focuses on raw data and computing power, it would be a mistake to separate these tools from humans. From its inception, supposed AI tools have always relied on humans hiding behind the curtain, silently labelling images, sorting data, and making moral and political judgement calls that might seem trival to the living, but are next to impossible for machines. Read more 2023 is poised to become a banner year for AI, with new startups racing forward to present new generative systems and legacy companies like Google and Meta likely to hand over more and more responsibility to its automated systems. That wave of projected hype makes it all the more important to take a step back and look at the many humans working behind the scenes to make the magic of AI a reality. The humans behind Google search speak out Photo: Alphabet Workers Union Over its 25 year history, Google has amassed a fortune and conquered the top layer of the internet thanks, in no small part, to human workers who test and oversee the companys numerous search and ranking algorithm The proper functioning of those tools are paramount to the tech giants success, but the laborer responsible for that work are often contractors lacking the same pay and protections afforded to other full time Googlers. These members of the company, according to the Alphabet Workers Union, are referred to as ghost workers. Story continues Dozens of those raters petitioned the company in early February, claiming they made poverty wages, despite helping create some of Googles most profitable products. In the petition the raters claimed they and their colleagues, who work exclusively for Google, did not receive health care, family leave, or paid time off benefits. Since my time as a rater started, we have lost the ability to work full-time and were capped at 26 hours, and actually received a cut in our hourly pay, Google Rater Michelle Curtis said in a statement sent to Gizmodo. That did not stop the growing demands placed on usweve been asked to do more work in the same amount of time and are increasingly exposed to violent and disturbing content.: Today, I could work at Wendys and make more than what I make working for Google, Curtis added. ChatGPT relied on Kenyan laborers paid $2 per hour Image: OpenAI Even the next generation of cutting edge generative AI cant break free of its human overseers. A Time investigation last month revealed OpenAI relied on outsourced Kenyan laborers, some paid as little as $2 per hour, to sift through dark disturbing content to create an AI filter that would be embedded in ChatGPT and eventually used to scan for signs of horrific content. The content detector, made possible by the human reviewers, is used to reduce the change the popular AI tool will serve up harmful content to consumers. The detector also helps remove toxic entries from the datasets used to train ChatGPT. Workers training the AI said they regularly scanned through text depicting vivid accounts of torture, suicide, incest, and child sexual abuse, all to make ChatGPT palatable for the public. One of the workers told Time they suffered from haunting, recurring visions after reading vile descriptions of beastiality. That was torture, the worker said. Metas human moderators turned keep Facebook and Instagram palatable Photo: Dan Kitwood (Getty Images) For years Meta, which owns Facebook and Instagram, has faced waves of criticism from all sides of the political aisle for its content moderation decisions. Meta often responds to these criticisms publicly by telling critics it relies on seemingly objective and politically neutral AI systems to detect and remove harmful content. That description, while likely to become more true in the coming years, downplays the companys continued reliance on an army of contracted human content moderators spread out around the world. Those workers are regularly exposed to the darkest corners of humanity and view videos and images depicting brutal killings, self harm, and mutilation, all for fractions of what full-time Facebook engineers earn. Previous reports documenting the lives of Facebook moderators in Arizona felt compelled to turn to sex and drugs to cope with the stress of the content they were viewing. In another case, some of the content moderators reportedly began to believe some of the outlandish conspiracy theories they were hired to suss out. Meta paid traumatized workers $52 million as a part of a settlement in 2020 and promised workplace improvements following the reports, but workers say little has changed on the ground. Amazon Mechanical Turk: The original man behind the curtain Photo: Alex Wong (Getty Images) While many tech executives have tried to underplay or disguise humanitys hidden role in article intelligence, Amazon founder Jeff Bezos learned into the idea full tilt with Amazons Mechanical Turk. Reportedly named after an 18th century automated chess playing machine that was actually just a person hiding in a box, Mechanical Turk is a service researchers and data scientists can turn to complete simple tasks like image labeling, all for morsels of money. Those labeling task are trivially easy for humans but incredibly difficult for AI. Bezos reportedly referred to his new business at the time as artificial artificial intelligence. Normally, a human makes a request of a computer, and the computer does the computation of the task, Bezos said in an interview with The New York Times in 2017. But artificial artificial intelligences like Mechanical Turk invert all that. The computer has a task that is easy for a human but extraordinarily hard for the computer. So instead of calling a computer service to perform the function, it calls a human. YouTube moderators reportedly review up to 300 pieces of content every day Photo: Sean Gallup (Getty Images) Similar to Meta, YouTue also employs an armada of contract workers to work alongside its AI detection systems to keep its platform relatively toxicity free. Former moderators, some of which have filed lawsuits against the company, claim they were expected to review 100 to 300 pieces of content per day with an expected error rate of between 2% and 5%. hose vidoes ran the gambit of horrible online content and reportedly include videos of animal mutilation, child rape and murder. The former moderators say they werent given the proper records to cope with that burden. In some case, according to a former YouTube moderator, contractors had to pay for their own medical treatment to deal with the trauma spurred by the work. TikTok moderatos say they suffer from PTSD Photo: Drew Angerer (Getty Images) TikTok may not have quite the same reputation for hosting controversial content as some of its other social media counterparts, however, its relatively squeaky clean exterior is still made possible by human reviewers acting as digital custodians. The video sharing platform is known for its uniquely powerful AI recommendation algorithm, but its the low-paid human workers monitoring the platform that ensure it actually remains usable for most viewers. One of those former content moderators filled a lawsuit against the company in 2021 claiming videos wretched on the job led them and other workers to develop post traumatic stress disorder. In the lawsuit, the former moderators workers could spend up to 12 hours per day viewing content. The sheer volume of video uploaded to the platform means reviewers allegedly only have around 25 seconds to view each piece of content. In some cases, workers would have it iview three to ten videos simultaneously to keep up their pace. Facebooks M Messenger assistant was mostly just humans behind a keyboard Screenshot: Meta The rapid rise of generative AI chatbots and more rudimentary assistants like Apples Siri before it has made interacting with AI systems an increasingly common part of online life. While user have confidence the assistant and chatbots they are speaking with are in fact machines, that wasnt always the case. Back in 2015, Facebook briefly launched its own virtual assistant competitor for Messenger called M. Facebooks digital assistant helped users arrange deliveries, reserve tickets for shows, make reservations, and accomplish any number of other tasks, all with stunning efficiency and human-like competence. M, it turns out, wasnt really a super advanced AI at all, but rather, mostly consisted of a team of human employees fielding questions. While there was software involved at some level, these human reviews worked alongside the AI to make sure users requests were still being fulfilled even if the AI was unable to complete the task. Users on the other end werent fully aware of whether they were being assisted by a human or a bot. Its primarily powered by people, former Facebook CTO Mike Schroepfer told Vox at the time. But those people are effectively backed up by AIs. Facebook eventually shut down M in 2018 after only ever serving around 2,000 users. More from Gizmodo Sign up for Gizmodo's Newsletter. For the latest news, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Click here to read the full article. City officials in Afton are warning residents that its illegal to sell spring water for commercial gain after hearing reports that companies had sent fliers to homeowners asking if they had natural springs on their properties. Mayor Bill Palmquist said he had heard from several residents who had received mailers from companies that want to bottle spring water in the area. He addressed the issue in the citys latest newsletter. Extracting, hauling and/or processing spring water for commercial use is not an allowed use in an agricultural or residential zone, Palmquist wrote. We want to make sure that everyone involved knows the ordinance restrictions before taking any action that could result in issues down the road. Afton City Council member Lucia Wroblewski said she received a mailing several weeks ago from the Rolling Hills Springs Co., based in Linton, Ind. Do you have a natural spring on your property? the mailing stated. We are looking for landowners to utilize the natural springs of the Midwest. We would like to hear from you and discuss how we work with landowners to turn extra runoff from their spring into extra income. The spring, according to the company materials, would be used to supply fresh spring water to the world. Suitable springs would have water coming to the surface naturally, run year round, run during dry conditions, never freeze, have continuous flow and have a flow that doesnt increase with rain, according to Rolling Hills. I dont believe I have a spring on my property, but there are people around me who do, Wroblewski said. I am concerned that our precious water resources might be taken from us for commercial use to another state. We need to make sure we protect all of our water and make sure we have enough in our aquifers. Officials from Rolling Hills did not immediately return a phone call seeking comment. Permit required? Anyone who withdraws more than 10,000 gallons of water per day or 1 million gallons per year in Minnesota must obtain a water-appropriations permit from the Department of Natural Resources, said Randall Doneen, conservation assistance and regulation section manager in the ecological and water resources division of the DNR. Story continues Minnesota benefits from a robust water resource, but it isnt infinite, Doneen said. The laws direct us so that the water supply for future generations in Minnesota is sustainable. Related Articles The laws dictate the order of priority for water use. For instance, domestic use and agricultural use take priority over commercial and industrial use, according to Doneen. RELATED: Send Mississippi River water to southwestern reservoirs? Analysis casts doubts. The DNR is currently considering a citizens petition on a California companys proposal to build a $125 million, 425,000-square-foot water-bottling plant in Elko New Market, Doneen said. The Niagara Bottling plant would draw from the citys water supply, which comes from the Prairie du Chien-Jordan aquifer. Citizens have petitioned the DNR for an environmental review of the project; the project is on hold until that decision is made, Doneen said. The deadline for that decision is the end of this month, he said. Parents have been traumatized by an increase in the prevalence of school shootings over the past decade, with gun violence now being the leading cause of death in children. We drop our children off at school and hope for the best, each day. Adults with semi-automatic rifles entering our school buildings constitutes an ongoing epidemic, but a recent incident in Virginia suggests that intruders are not the only concern when it comes to school shootings and handguns within the home could pose a threat beyond its walls. On Jan. 6, a 6-year-old in Newport News brought a gun to school and shot his teacher, intentionally, leaving her with life threatening injuries. The teachers lawyer indicated that in the hours prior to this event, school leaders were warned three times that the child may have a gun. Administrators failed to follow up, and the student shot his teacher in the chest that afternoon. This incident rerouted my thoughts on mandatory gun safety education in schools Im no longer opposed to it. Messages of support for teacher Abby Zwerner, who was shot by a 6-year-old student, grace the front door of Richneck Elementary School Newport News, Va., on Jan. 9, 2023. Our kids can't live in a gun-free world I am the mother who doesnt allow toy guns in our home. Guns, to me, signify violence and death and I find them unnecessary in the hands of anyone other than police officers. In my ideal world, guns wouldnt exist, and the lives of countless children would have been saved. But that world is fictional and as much as I wish our children werent surrounded by weapons, gun laws arent changing fast enough to protect our children now. I see that I must alter my beliefs to fit the state of our country. Want fewer shootings? Pass tougher gun laws. Our research shows lax laws fuel violence. Gabby Giffords: Why I'm optimistic about reducing gun violence in America About 4.6 million kids live with unlocked loaded guns. In 2020 alone, at least 125 children ages 5 and under shot themselves or someone else. Just last month, an 11-year-old boy was accidentally and fatally shot by his younger brother while visiting relatives in Allentown, Pennsylvania one of many lives taken by an accidental gun shot. Story continues There are children with loaded weapons at their disposal but lacking basic knowledge of gun safety. These children and their immediate surroundings are at risk, but gun violence can also extend beyond the home and into the greater community as evidenced by what happened in Newport News. TSA found record number of guns last year: Many were loaded. But increased fines won't change things. As a mother who acknowledges the risk of sending my children to school each day as a parent who wrote a letter to President Joe Biden last year, pleading for gun law reform, and as a writer who is exhausted from shouting pleas into what feels like the abyss I urge gun owners to consider the children in their communities. Parents who own guns have a responsibility to secure their weapons and educate their children, but perhaps the government can play a role, too. A candlelight vigil in honor of teacher Abby Zwerner in Newport News, Va., on Jan. 9, Zwerner, 25, was struck by a bullet through her hand and chest. Her attorney said she faces a lifetime of physical and psychological recovery. What government can do Some government officials are suggesting we educate our children about gun safety at school. Last year, the Arizona House of Representatives passed a bill that requires a National Rifle Association gun safety course for middle and high school students. All Arizona schools are required to teach students about firearms safety at least once between sixth grade and the end of high school. Instruction is only required on gun safety, and the legislation prevents instruction that would teach children how to fire guns or hunt a detail that urged me to reconsider my stance. Initially, I was opposed to my children receiving gun safety education in school because Id rather remove guns from our world than mold my children to a world with guns. I cringe if my children use their hands to motion the spray of bullets during imaginative play learning about guns from their educators once seemed to negate everything I taught at home. But while we hope our children wont use drugs or have sex at a young age, we still provide them with the knowledge needed to make these safe decisions in fact, we educate them in hopes theyll reach an understanding on their own. Why should gun safety be any different? I wish a gun safety curriculum werent necessary, but I now see why it is. While I maintain the notion that urgent gun law reform is imperative, gun safety education targets one slice of the problem as we push for further change. A bill requiring gun safety education in schools will educate children, like the 6-year-old in Newport News, living with loaded guns those who might not be receiving the necessary information at home. This education may help to decrease accidental injuries and death by household firearms, and it could prepare children to better handle the emergency of a gun finding its way into the classroom. Perhaps this education should begin earlier, in the elementary years, so that children are having a more ongoing, gradual exposure to this vital topic. Lindsay Karp I once shuddered at the thought of my children absorbing a lesson on guns at school, but after the incident in Newport News, Virginia, the potential benefit of this curriculum is apparent. With a focus on gun safety and not on gun use, I now see this education in schools as a necessary steppingstone one of many in the right direction for our youth. If we wont put our children first, we need to teach them to put themselves first. Lindsay Karp is a freelance writer with a background in speech-language pathology. She writes about parenting, life with multiple sclerosis and also hopes to become a published childrens book author. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Newport News school shooting convinced me: Teach all kids gun safety LONDON, Feb. 4 (Xinhua) -- As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to pose a threat to global public health, the World Health Organization (WHO) last month calls for the momentum for vaccination to be maintained to better cover high-priority groups. The vaccine uptake in low- and middle-income countries is still insufficient, which became a concern about the ongoing risk, according to the WHO. The world has been struggling to tackle the problem of unequal distribution of COVID-19 vaccines between rich and lower-income countries. Yet, years after the outbreak of the pandemic, promises made by many rich countries have yet to be delivered. "No one is safe until everyone is safe," said Seth Berkley, CEO of the global vaccine alliance Gavi. EMPTY PROMISES According to figures from Our World in Data, as early as two years ago, developed countries had already acquired enough doses to vaccinate their population more than one shot for each. But even now, many Western developed countries have not yet fulfilled their promises to deliver vaccines to low-income countries. There are currently nearly 400 million doses of vaccines announced by the United States but not yet donated, according to the data. For the United Kingdom and Switzerland, the number is 41 million and 6.2 million. Commenting on the low vaccination rates in low-income countries, Richard Hatchett, CEO of the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations, told Xinhua in an earlier interview that "the delay in vaccines getting to them has really been intolerable." Last month at the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting 2023 in Davos, Switzerland, Hatchett urged countries and manufacturers to prioritize vaccine supply to the global program COVAX. VACCINES DESTROYED According to a report by qz.com last October, Canada destroyed nearly 14 million AstraZeneca vaccine doses in early 2022. Switzerland was also reported to destroy more than 14 million doses of vaccines, which was more than four times the doses it donated to low-income countries. What also worsened the global accessibility of vaccines is that some low-income countries had to turn down the offering of vaccine doses that were due to expire soon, or had to destroy such doses. In May 2021, Malawi destroyed nearly 20,000 doses of AstraZeneca vaccines, which arrived in the country at the end of March but would expire on April 13. In an article published in the Sunday Mirror newspaper in 2021, WHO Ambassador for Global Health Financing Gordon Brown said the West's stockpile of COVID-19 vaccine is growing by the day but many poorer parts of the world are missing out. "We must act now," said the former British prime minister. IMMUNITY GAP The obvious gap between immunity in rich and poorer countries has drawn the attention of many experts. Many have warned that the longer the unequal vaccine distribution exists, the wider COVID-19 spreads, and new variants are more likely to emerge. Extremely unequal vaccine distribution has typified the availability of vaccines across countries, said a study published in August 2022 in the UK journal Communications Medicine. "In an unequal world with open economies, pandemics do not stop at national borders," it stressed. Since about 85 percent of the global population resides in low- and middle-income countries, most of humanity remains exposed to continued outbreaks, the study said, adding that this situation increases the risk that further virus variants will emerge, possibly undermining the efficacy of existing vaccines. Most people in the world's poorest countries might not have access to COVID-19 vaccines until at least mid-2023, it said. "We will only prevent variants from emerging if we are able to protect all of the world's population, not just the wealthy parts," said Berkley. As long as large portions of the world's population are unvaccinated, variants will continue to appear, and the pandemic will continue to be prolonged, he said. Russian MiG-31 fighters are almost constantly based on the territory of Belarus He said that Russian MiG-31 fighter jets, Kinzhal hypersonic missiles carriers, are almost permanently deployed in Belarus. Read also: Air Force explains reason for flight of Russian MiG-31 in Belarus, which sparked nationwide air alert in Ukraine "As for now, they take off daily and cause air-raid alarms in Ukraine. We are always ready for new Russian attacks from the air. After every mass strike, we take certain measures to ensure that our forces and air defence systems will perform better in future," Ihnat said. The spokesperson also stressed the need to be always ready for possible strikes, "because strategic aviation is the most mobile means of war." Read also: Air Force explains why Russia used dummy nuclear warhead in Kh-55 missiles Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine An air-raid siren has been announced throughout Ukraine; a MiG-31K fighter has taken off in Belarus. Source: alerts.in.ua, Belaruski Hajun, an independent Belarusian military monitoring media outlet Details: As of 16:53, an air-raid siren has been declared in all regions of Ukraine. According to Belaruski Hajun, a Russian Mig-31K Kinzhal missile-carrying aircraft took off from the Machulishchy military airfield in Belarus. Background: On the morning of Saturday, 4 February, an air-raid siren was announced in all oblasts of Ukraine, which lasted two hours. That time, a long-range radar detection and control aircraft, as well as a Mig-31K, took off from the Machulishchy airfield. Journalists fight on their own frontline. Support Ukrainska Pravda or become our patron! An air-raid siren sounded throughout all Ukrainian oblasts on the morning of Saturday, 4 February, with the air raid lasting two hours. Source: Air-raid alert map; Belaruski Hajun, an independent Belarusian military monitoring media outlet Details: Belaruski Hajun has reported that a long-range early-warning and control aircraft took off from the Machulishchy airfield in Belarus. Telegram channels that track Russian attacks have said that Russian Mig-31K Kinzhal missile-carrying aircraft have been detected. Updated: The Ukrainian Navy reports that there are no Kalibr cruise missile carriers in the Black Sea for the second day in a row. The all-clear was sounded in the oblasts at around 11:00. Journalists fight on their own frontline. Support Ukrainska Pravda or become our patron! amazon fresh shopper using mobile to enter store - Hollie Adams/Bloomberg When shoppers arrived at the opening of Amazons first Fresh store in the UK to try its just walk out technology in early 2021, many found there was already a wait to just get in. Following much fanfare over the launch, customers were more than happy to queue for a look inside the new concept shop. Im not sure what I even put in my bag, one shopper said after exiting. Still, for her, the whole experience had been a great novelty and a good convenience. Two years later, the novelty has worn off. On Thursday night, Amazon said it would shut down some stores and pause its current deployment. The online retail giant took a $720m (590m) writedown on its current bricks and mortar portfolio. Andy Jassy, Amazons chief executive, said the US giant was not going to expand the physical Fresh stores until the company had established how it could provide a different offering. Amazon Fresh store inside - Hollie Adams/Bloomberg This was a significant volte face. Amazon, a name synonymous with online shopping, had plunged billions of dollars into physical shops and wanted to become a leader in grocery an industry worth around $6 trillion. The company made waves in 2018 when it spent $13bn to buy upmarket grocery chain Whole Foods, before launching its Amazon Fresh shops and Go convenience stores that allowed customers to just check out. Rather than queuing for the till, shoppers tapped in using the Amazon app. They then simply picked up items and put them straight in their bag, before walking out of the shop without paying. The experience, which many found weirdly similar to shoplifting, was monitored by a web of cameras, scanners and sensors. These added every item a user picked to their digital account, before billing them. Its other shops also include snazzy digital experiences, such as paying with a sensor that scans the palm of your hand. As recently as 2021, grocery was highlighted as a key area of focus for founder Jeff Bezos when he took on his new role as executive chair. Story continues But so far, Amazons gimmicks have only had limited success. It closed at least one grocery location in Dalston, East London, after just 18 months. Meanwhile, last summer, reports suggested it was halting plans for a big UK push, amid concerns that it was not making the headway it had hoped to achieve. We were always sceptical about the Fresh concept, says Shore analyst Clive Black. The reality is they just haven't taken off and I think Amazon itself would be hugely underwhelmed by the traction that they have been getting. Few have embraced the Just Walk Out concept it pioneered, suggesting rivals have not been impressed. Tesco has experimented with its GetGo checkout-free experience, but only on a tiny scale. Amazon has also struggled to gain a foothold in the market. According to the latest figures by Kantar from last summer, Amazon holds just a 0.8pc share of the online and offline grocery market. This is dwarfed by all the major UK supermarkets, who currently hold between 28pc of the market Tesco and 5pc Waitrose. More recent data from Kantar suggest Amazon's online grocery share is still only around 2.2pc. A report from TWC last summer suggested that just one in five customers would be interested in trying an Amazon Fresh store if it opened near them, whilst around 11pc had tried. Its fair to say that Amazon is not a force at all, either in bricks and mortar or online grocery, says Ged Futter, a former Asda buyer and grocery consultant. The volumes that Amazon does, well they dont even register. Basically, they dont have any power. They might say they've got power globally, but not in grocery they don't. Some think Amazons struggle to lure shoppers has been inevitable. One insider suggests many of the sites that Amazon took were never going to work, after the retailer went "headfirst into opening a load of stores". The Amazon mentality was that it would work anywhere, because everyone knows Amazon, says a source who was involved in the rollout. Actually, what they found was that, when it comes to grocery, everyone has their loyalty to other brands. People came in because it was a novelty, and then they went back to the traditional grocers. Brian Olsavsky, Amazons chief financial officer, said this week it had decided to exit certain stores with low-growth potential, a tacit admission that its expansion plans had gone awry. Shore Capitals Black says: We have held the view for some time that to get a material place in the UK grocery market, Amazon really needs to acquire a major grocer. Despite speculation that Amazon considered a swoop on Waitrose and Morrisons to gain stores, no deal has ever materialised. Instead, Amazon has struck home delivery tie-ups with Morrisons and Co-op. Amid a cost of living crisis, figures from Assosia out last year suggested prices had not risen as sharply at Amazon Fresh as at rivals. Assosia data found that the price of a basket at Amazon had gone up around 3.7pc in the year to last July, compared to a 7pc rise at Waitrose and a 10.6pc rise at Morrisons. Jeff Bezos - MARK RALSTON/AFP via Getty Images) Yet part of Amazon's struggles lies in the fact that it was not cheap to begin with. Amazon is not a cheap place to shop, Futter says. What their Fresh stores are are convenience stores, and convenience stores are not cheap. They're expensive, because they're more expensive to run. This is particularly true for stores that rely on checkout-free technology as Amazon has with its Fresh sites. Julian Skelly, head of retail at the consultancy Publicis Sapient, says Amazons heavy investment in technology and gadgets at the till are not yet paying off, while rivals are finding cheaper alternatives. The likes of Aldi and Lidl are putting in self-checkouts, where you only need to employ one person anyway, Futter says. So that seems a much more cost effective way of doing it, then putting in lots of technology. Kitting out new stores with pricey tech may have, at one time, seemed easy for Amazon to do. But, like the rest of the tech sector, Amazon has been subject to a brutal correction in its share price which has made funding its operations more expensive. Its stock fell by around half in 2022 amid an online retail slowdown. Growth has failed to keep pace with the rapid expansion of digital sales seen during the pandemic. Sales in its physical stores grew by 6pc to roughly $5bn in the three months ending in December 2022, contrasting with a decline in online sales. However, the growth rate of its bricks and mortar shops has slowed from double digit increases last year. Overall, Amazon fell to a $2.7bn annual loss in 2022, its biggest ever. In grocery, Amazon has already had to make some changes. In the US, it has upped the amount it charges for its Amazon Fresh grocery delivery service. It has removed free delivery for Prime customers in the US on orders over $35. The threshold is now $150, while some orders will come with fees of as much as $9.95. Signs of pressure are cropping up across its retail footprint. The company closed 68 high street shops across the UK and the US last year, which included its book stores, pop up shops and its 4-Star brand - its mini department store concept. A big-box store, expected to be stocked with groceries and clothes, was scheduled to open in the US this January but has not been launched. For years, Amazon has been seen as a major disruptor in industries, having the heft to shake up entire sectors if it turned its eye to them. When it first made its splash in groceries with the takeover of Whole Foods, grocery chiefs were unsurprisingly shaken. Yet, now, it seems, perhaps they did not have much to fear. Amazon may have been telling shoppers to just walk out of its Fresh stores. It seems like, after all that, it should have been more worried about getting them in. Another 116 Ukrainians were released from captivity Among the released POWs were also 87 servicemen of the Armed Forces of Ukraine (including two from the Special Operations Forces), eight soldiers of the Territorial Defense, seven from the National Guard, six from the National Police, five employees of the State Border Guard Service, two from the Navy and one representative of the State Emergency Service. Read also: About 2,000 Azovstal defenders still in Russian captivity In total, two officers and 114 privates and sergeants were returned. Also, the Ukrainian military managed to return the bodies of the dead foreign volunteers 28-year-old Christopher Matthew Perry and Andrew Tobias Matthew, as well as the body of the dead volunteer soldier a Ukrainian who had served in the French Foreign Legion and returned to defend Ukraine after the start of a full-scale Russian invasion 23-year-old Yevhen Kulyk. Read also: Ukraine says over 3,000 Ukrainian POW's in Russian captivity, 15,000 people missing We continue to work. We will return everyone, Yermak wrote. The Russian side also announced the exchange of prisoners, mentioning the return of 63 servicemen of the Russian Armed Forces. The Ministry of Defense of the Russian Federation stated that among the released Russians there are persons of a sensitive category. The Russian agency says that the exchange took place with the mediation of the United Arab Emirates. According to the Presidents Commissioner for Ensuring the Rights of Defenders of Ukraine, more than three thousand Ukrainian servicemen remain in Russian captivity. Another 15,000 people are considered missing. Read also: 50 Ukrainian defenders freed from Russian captivity, some captured in Mariupol, Chornobyl NPP Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine The Pentagon said Friday evening it had observed another Chinese spy balloon this one in Latin America just hours after revealing that a similar balloon from China was making its way across the continental United States. Pentagon press secretary Brig. Gen. Pat Ryder said the Defense Department was aware of reports of another balloon transiting Latin America. We now assess it is another Chinese surveillance balloon. He did not provide further details on its location. Earlier on Friday the Pentagon said it wouldn't attempt to remove the balloon in U.S. airspace because any potential debris field would be significant and could cause civilian injuries or deaths or significant property damage but did not provide a plan to respond to the slow-moving violation of U.S. airspace and international law. The huge balloon has ignited domestic curiosities, political finger-pointing and an international diplomatic crisis, leaving Americans across the middle swath of the country looking to the skies for the white floating apparatus. Where it will go and whether the U.S. military may ultimately opt to shoot it from the sky remains unknown, but officials have confirmed it continues to move east across the continental United States and are dismissing Beijing's insistence it is a weather balloon that got blown off track. The U.S. is taking action to weaken its surveillance capabilities, including using counterintelligence measures to obscure its views and physically moving things out of its path, two senior defense officials told NBC News on Friday. Previously, a senior U.S. defense official said that the U.S. assessed that the balloon has limited additive value from an intelligence collection perspective over and above what [China] can do through other means. On Friday afternoon, Ryder told reporters that the Pentagon "will continue to monitor and review options." "The balloon continues to move eastward and is currently over the center of the continental United States," he said, adding that "we currently assess the balloon does not present a military or physical threat to people on the ground at this time." Story continues Asked if he was concerned some Americans might try to interfere with the balloon presumably, by intercepting it or trying to shoot it down Ryder noted the balloon is flying at a height of approximately 60,000 feet, which is about 11 miles above the ground. Its well above the range of civilian air traffic, he said. The Federal Aviation Administration said in a statement that it was working with the Pentagon "to support any needed US government response." "The balloon does not currently pose a hazard to civil aviation. If that changes, the FAA is prepared to take action," the agency said. The Chinese government acknowledged that the craft above the U.S. "is from China." It is a civilian airship used for research, mainly meteorological, purposes, the Chinese Foreign Ministry said in a statement on its website. It said the balloon deviated far from its planned course because of strong winds and a lack of steering ability. Ryder countered, "The fact is we know it's a surveillance balloon." "It has the ability to maneuver," he said, while declining to go into specifics. The U.S. military had been monitoring the balloon for days, U.S. officials and a senior defense official told NBC News on Thursday. The Pentagon assessed the balloon to be roughly the size of at least two school buses, one U.S. official said. It was spotted over Billings, Montana, on Wednesday, and had flown over Alaskas Aleutian Islands and through Canada to get there, officials said. The destination is notable because Montana is home to one of Americas three nuclear missile silo fields. Ryder declined to give the balloon's exact location Friday. A balloon in the sky over Billings, Mont., in images taken Feb. 1. The Pentagon said Thursday that a suspected Chinese spy balloon was hovering over the area. (Chase Doak / AFP - Getty Images) Sen. Roger Marshall, a Kansas Republican, said Friday afternoon the balloon was above his state. "I can confirm the Chinese spy ballon is over NE KS. My staff is in contact with law enforcement officials," he tweeted, adding "I condemn any attempts the Chinese make to spy on Americans." A spokesperson for China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs later said: "We have no intention to violate and have never violated the territory or airspace of any sovereign country. Some politicians and media in the U.S. have hyped it up to attack and smear China." The discovery has heightened tensions between the U.S. and China, with Secretary of State Antony Blinken postponing a planned trip to Beijing. We have concluded that the conditions are not right at this moment for Secretary Blinken to travel to China, a senior State Department official said. Blinken confirmed the postponement during a press briefing Friday, but said "we are going to remain engaged with the PRC [People's Republic of China] as this ongoing issue is resolved. The first step is getting the surveillance asset out of our space. And thats what were focused on." Ryder told reporters Friday that the balloon's presence "violated U.S. airspace and international law, which is unacceptable. We have conveyed this directly to the PRC at multiple levels." White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre made similar remarks when asked about the balloon at a briefing Friday afternoon. President Joe Biden has yet to make a statement on the matter. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin convened a meeting of senior military and defense leaders on Wednesday, including Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Mark Milley and NORTHCOM/NORAD Commander Gen. Glen VanHerck, to discuss military options to take down the balloon. Pentagon leaders presented those options to Biden on Wednesday, and he was given a strong recommendation that the balloon not be shot down, senior administration official told NBC on Thursday. The official said the administration "acted immediately to protect against the collection of sensitive information being sought by the balloon, and noted this wasn't the first time this has happened. Instances of this activity have been observed over the past several years, including prior to this administration, the official said. Asked Friday about those previous instances, Ryder declined to comment on specifics, citing the classified nature of those events, but acknowledged "there have been past incidents." Sen. Jon Tester, a Montana Democrat and the chair of the Senate Defense Appropriations Subcommittee, announced Friday that he would hold a hearing on the Biden administration's response to the balloon that appeared over his state. Im demanding answers from the Biden Administration," Tester said in a statement. "I will be pulling people before my committee to get real answers on how this happened, and how we can prevent it from ever happening again. Several Republican lawmakers criticized the administration's response as well, with Republican Sen. Tom Cotton of Arkansas saying Biden should stop coddling and appeasing the Chinese communists. Bring the balloon down now and exploit its tech package, which could be an intelligence bonanza. Staff members for the so-called Gang of Eight, a bipartisan group of leaders in Congress, were given a classified briefing Thursday afternoon on the balloon, three sources familiar told NBC on Friday. A spokesperson for Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer said the lawmakers in the group would get an in-person briefing from the administration next week. This article was originally published on NBCNews.com A memorial sits at the intersection of Ross and Raines roads in Memphis, Tennessee, where Tyre Nichols was stopped by police. A memorial sits at the intersection of Ross and Raines roads in Memphis, Tennessee, where Tyre Nichols was stopped by police. MEMPHIS, Tenn. His right eye was swollen shut. His nose was bent, and scars covered his face. That is what Tyre Nichols family saw after multiple police officers allegedly beat him in a subdivision in east Memphis on the night of Jan. 7, leading to his death in the hospital days later. RowVaughn and Rodney Wells, his mother and stepfather, had a fear that many other Black parents in the city had lived with for years: that there would be no accountability for the killing of their son. But attorneys and activists took matters into their own hands. Kareem Ali, who works with the law practice of civil rights attorney Benjamin Crump, called Hunter Demster after Nichols was taken off life support and subsequently died. The two men, both activists, got together with several others and went to meet Nichols family. That was the first place his stepfather showed me that photo, Demster told HuffPost, referring to a graphic image of Nichols as he lay in the hospital. I remember being outraged, angry and sad when he first showed me the photo. And to put it in context, nothing was going on, and the family was scared that all of it was going to be swept under the rug. At the time, Memphis police had given minimal details about what happened to Nichols. Officers said that he was stopped for reckless driving and that an arrest was made after Nichols tried to flee. Within days of his death, Shelby County District Attorney Steve Mulroy called in the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation to look into the incident. No demonstrations had taken place in the city. But Ali and Demster decided they needed to show the public what had happened to Nichols. We made it our duty to put that photo in the eye of the media, and it became the traction of this case to the whole world, Ali told HuffPost. Ali said he knew that if the brutal beating had not been publicized, justice would have been delayed or maybe not have happened at all. Story continues He and Demster took the hospital picture to a balloon release rally honoring Nichols life, and then to a protest outside of a police station on Raines Road, all during the week leading up to the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday. National media immediately began covering the case, leading to widespread outcry. Within days of activists confronting city officials, the Memphis Police Department fired five officers: Tadarrius Bean, Demetrius Haley, Desmond Mills Jr., Emmitt Martin III and Justin Smith. Rodney Wells (center) stands beside a poster showing Nichols, his stepson. Rodney Wells (center) stands beside a poster showing Nichols, his stepson. This was not the first time that a shocking image had sparked action and anger about the cruelty visited on Black people, whether by police or vigilantes. Almost 70 years earlier, a woman named Mamie Till decided the world needed to see what white men did to her son after he was abducted in Money, Mississippi, for supposedly flirting with a white woman. Till wanted to truly show what Black southerners, like her son, Emmett, were experiencing in their daily lives. Soon after Memphis activists circulated Nichols photo, the city held an annual MLK breakfast event honoring the fight for civil rights. But this was not the time for business as usual, and activists intended to keep pressing for accountability, Amber Sherman, a local organizer, told HuffPost. Sherman and a group of around six others disrupted the breakfast and demanded that Memphis Mayor Jim Strickland answer questions about Nichols death, including when exactly the city would offer more transparency. Strickland described Nichols killing as a sad situation but denied that city police had a history of brutality against Black people. Soon, video of the exchange was everywhere. I just interrogated him [Strickland] for about three minutes, and it went viral on Twitter, Sherman said. I think that really highlighted how seriously the city was not taking what happened to Tyre, which I think is where we got to where we are now. Before she met with Strickland, Sherman had seen the picture of Nichols at the balloon release. Though she typically doesnt want to view graphic images of Black people whove been brutalized, seeing it made her understand why the photo had to be publicized. I was just like, oh, shit, this is bad. Like, this is really, really bad, she said. I would have never known that the regular person who Tyre was, was the picture that they showed me in the hospital. His face was swollen like 10 times bigger than normal. He looked dead in the face nothing was there. So Much Of It Goes Unrecorded Experiencing and seeing images of police brutality can be traumatic, particularly for Black Americans, who are disproportionately affected. In 2021, researchers foundthat the U.S. National Vital Statistics System underreported deaths from police violence by 55% between 1980 and 2018. Government death certificates had failed to classify and report more than 17,000 deaths as the result of police violence over the 40-year period, according to their research. In all, they discovered that Black people are 3.5 times more likely to be killed by police than white Americans. The advent of smartphones and social media, along with the push for police to wear body cameras, has helped bring attention to some of these incidents and, sometimes, accountability. Memphis has struggled for years to hold police accountable and reduce violence from law enforcement. The citys Civilian Law Enforcement Review Board, created in 1994, was tasked with giving citizens an opportunity to voice and address their experiences with police brutality. But it often failed to deliver results. A Memphis city councilman said the board has no teeth, noting that it lacks subpoena power. It can only sue an officer through a city councilperson on the board, which slows processes of accountability and police reform. Maya Wiley, the president and CEO of The Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights, said there is no question that media attention is easier to obtain with dramatic photos or video of a police encounter that left someone dead or critically injured. This means that in many cases, people can overlook the harassing, demeaning and otherwise serious incidents not caught on camera. Wiley said it takes the type of activism that happened in Memphis to get attention on cases that might go unnoticed. The reality of police brutality in the Black community is that so much of it goes unrecorded. A lot of it is humiliating, Wiley told HuffPost. Every other time, if we dont have footage, or if the cameras get turned off, or if there is not a sky camera, the question always becomes What did the Black person do to deserve it? You have to have the right picture, the right video, because we are always going to have to confront the assumption that we did something to deserve that. Since Nichols Jan. 10 death, five officers all of whom are Black have been charged on suspicion of murder, kidnapping and other crimes. Mississippi Boulevard Christian Church in Memphis, where a funeral service was held for Nichols on Wednesday, Feb. 1. Mississippi Boulevard Christian Church in Memphis, where a funeral service was held for Nichols on Wednesday, Feb. 1. A white officer, Preston Hemphill, was fired on Friday, the Memphis Police Department said. It stated that Hemphill violated policies related to personal conduct and truthfulness, among others. Memphis police also suspended another officer, who was not identified. Meanwhile, the Shelby County sheriffs office has suspended two deputies, and the citys fire department has fired three employees for failing to render proper aid to Nichols. The Memphis Police Department also disbanded its SCORPION unit, whose membership included the five officers now charged. The highly controversial unit, which was established to crack down on organized crime, had previously been linked to other incidents of excessive force. The Department of Justice is currently investigating Nichols case. Activists in Memphis say that Nichols was denied his basic human rights. And given the additional layer of him being a Black man in a city so closely tied to Americas long-standing issues on race, they felt it was imperative for the country to see the problems at hand. That photo of Tyre gave life to this whole movement, and now his name is being said throughout the whole world, Ali said. We knew it would send a message to the city and to the world. Armie Hammer, pictured in 2018, has commented for the first time on the sexual abuse allegations against him. (Taylor Jewell / Invision / Associated Press) Two years after Armie Hammer was accused of raping a woman and allegedly coercing others to engage in aggressive sexual activities, the actor is discussing the allegations against him for the first time. "Im here to own my mistakes, take accountability for the fact that I was an asshole, that I was selfish, that I used people to make me feel better, and when I was done, moved on," he says in a new interview with Air Mail. "Im now a healthier, happier, more balanced person. Im truly grateful for my life and my recovery and everything. I would not go back and undo everything thats happened to me." In the article, Hammer traces his interest in erotic BDSM practices to sexual abuse he says he suffered for nearly a year at 13 by a youth pastor of his church. He adds that he told his parents that the pastor made him uncomfortable, but they responded with an air of: "This is a man of God How dare you say these kinds of things? He wants to give you attention, and thats nice." It introduced sexuality into my life in a way that it was completely out of my control, explains Hammer. "I was powerless in the situation. I had no agency in the situation. Sexuality was introduced to me in a scary way where I had no control. My interests then went to: I want to have control in the situation, sexually. because being out of control was very dangerous for me and very uncomfortable." The "Call Me by Your Name" actor's career came to a halt in early 2021, when dozens of disturbing text message exchanges, in which Hammer allegedly disclosed cannibalistic desires, "master-slave fetishes" and BDSM obsession with numerous young women, were circulated online. Hammer was also accused of raping a woman in 2017, allegedly slamming her head against a wall and beating her feet. I tried to get away, but he wouldnt let me. I thought that he was going to kill me," the woman, identified as Effie, claimed of Hammer at a March 2021 news conference. He then left with no concern for my well-being. I was completely in shock and couldnt believe someone I loved did that to me. I tried so hard to justify his actions, even to the point of responding to him in a way that did not reflect my true feelings. Story continues As his attorney did when the allegations took place, Hammer denies Effie's accusation by clarifying that their encounter was what's called a "consensual non-consent scene" a practice Hammer said he learned about from Effie and that "every single thing was discussed beforehand" during now-deleted conversations on Facebook Messenger. "If I still had these messages, I would have been able to put this to bed in .5 seconds," he says. "This alleged rape was a scene that was her idea. She planned all of the details out, all the way down to what Starbucks I would see her at, how I would follow her home, how her front door would be open and unlocked and I would come in, and we would engage in what is called a consensual non-consent scene, CNC." "Thats a very important part of the BDSM world," he adds. "The consent. Because youre doing things that are pushing envelopes. Youre doing things that are beyond the [realm of] Lets have missionary sex with the lights off. You have to have that trust. You have to have that vulnerability with someone. You have to have that aspect of I am willingly giving my control over to this person, You know, the [the submissive partner] is the one who actually has all the power. Always. Theyre the ones who can say stop at any moment. Theyre the ones who set the boundaries." Of the rape accusation, Hammer says, "I have never thrust this on someone unexpectedly. Never." Because "the whole point of this is mutual pleasure. If youre engaged in some sort of sexual act with someone and theyre not enjoying themselves, for me, Im not enjoying myself. When two people are engaged in something, especially an intense scene, the symbiosis of it is what makes it magical. If one persons not enjoying it and you feel that energy, maybe there are people who enjoy that, but thats not me. I get so much pleasure giving someone pleasure." In the article, Hammer comments on his sexual activities with Courtney Vucekovich and Paige Lorenze, who both went public about his alleged cannibalistic desires. While he denies any non-consensual sexual activity or carving the letter A near Lorenze's vagina with a knife according to Hammer, he "lightly traced" his initial on her skin, with her permission and resulting in little blood he acknowledges that "the power dynamics were off" in these relationships because of his age and fame and admits that he was emotionally abusive to his accusers. They could have been happy to just be with me and would have said yes to things that maybe they wouldnt have said yes to on their own. Thats an imbalance of power in the situation," he says. "I had a very intense and extreme lifestyle, and I would scoop up these women, bring them into it into this whirlwind of travel and sex and drugs and big emotions flying around and then as soon as I was done, Id just drop them off and move on to the next woman, leaving that woman feeling abandoned or used." After Hammer lost his representation and was dropped from numerous projects, he contemplated suicide while quarantining in the Cayman Islands in early 2021, he says. "I just walked out into the ocean and swam out as far as I could and hoped that either I drowned or was hit by a boat or eaten by a shark, he recalls. "Then I realized that my kids were still on shore, and that I couldnt do that to my kids. Hammer says he's had trouble keeping a job since the allegations surfaced "No one will touch me, because if they hire me, then they are the people who support abusers," he says but after entering rehab for drug and alcohol abuse last year, he is working as a sober companion for a fellow recovering addict. He holds onto a hope of returning to acting, as his friend Robert Downey Jr. has after a tumultuous chapter of drug charges and stints in jail: "Theres examples of people who went through really difficult times and experienced what Joseph Campbell would call the heros death. And the hero must die so the hero can be reborn again," he says. There are examples everywhere, Robert being one of them, of people who went through those things and found redemption through a new path. And that, I feel like, is whats missing in this cancel-culture, woke-mob business. The minute anyone does anything wrong, theyre thrown away. Theres no chance for rehabilitation. Theres no chance for redemption. Someone makes a mistake, and we throw them away like a broken disposable camera. Robert and others are examples of what it looks like for a human being to experience pain and then growth. And that aspect of it is something that I aspire to." This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. Armie Hammer spoke with Air Mail in an article published Saturday. Todd Williamson/E! Entertainment/NBCU Photo Bank via Getty Images Armie Hammer spoke to Air Mail in his first interview since 2021 sexual assault allegations surfaced. He denied the sexual misconduct allegations made in 2021 that halted his career. Hammer also said he had suicidal ideations in 2021 and was a victim of sexual abuse as a child. Armie Hammer broke his silence after sexual misconduct and rape allegations were made against him and collapsed his career in 2021. Hammer's interview with Air Mail's James Kirchick, published on Saturday, comes two years after he became enveloped in controversy. Hammer's then-wife Elizabeth Chambers filed for divorce in July 2020, months prior to the release of unverified Instagram messages purportedly from Hammer that discussed cannibalism, drinking blood, and sexual dominance in January 2021. The account's owner, Efrosina Angelova, also accused Hammer of sexually assaulting her and said they were involved in a years-long relationship. Armie Hammer was accused of sexual misconduct in January 2021 and allegations of rape in March 2021. Dia Dipasupil/Getty Images In his interview with Kirchick, the 36-year-old denied the sexual assault allegations from Angelova but said the two had a consensual sexual relationship. Hammer said that the details Angelova presented was, instead, a "scene" the pair planned out. "This alleged rape was a scene that was her idea. She planned all of the details out, all the way down to what Starbucks I would see her at, how I would follow her home, how her front door would be open and unlocked and I would come in, and we would engage in what is called a 'consensual non-consent scene,' CNC,'" Hammer told the outlet. He continued that he sought consent during each of his sexual encounters, saying: "Every single thing was discussed beforehand. I have never thrust this on someone unexpectedly. Never." Angelova later formally accused Hammer of sexual assault in March 2021 during a press conference, saying: "I thought that he was going to kill me." She added: "On April 24, 2017, Armie Hammer violently raped me for over four hours in Los Angeles, during which he repeatedly slapped my head against a wall, bruising my face. He also committed other acts of violence against me to which I did not consent." Story continues Effie Angelova and Armie Hammer. Courtesy of Effie/Gloria Allred Hammer's attorney, Andrew Brettler, denied the allegations at the time in a statement to Insider's Libby Torres. "[Effie's] own correspondence with Mr. Hammer undermines and refutes her outrageous allegations," Brettler wrote. "As recently as July 18, 2020, [she] sent graphic texts to Mr. Hammer telling him what she wanted him to do to her. Mr. Hammer responded making it clear that he did not want to maintain that type of relationship with her." The Los Angeles Police Department confirmed to Insider in March 2021 that Hammer was the subject of an investigation. TMZ reported in December 2021 that the investigation ended and it was unlikely that Hammer would face charges. Hammer also addressed sexual misconduct allegations from two of his ex-girlfriends, Paige Lorenze and Courtney Vucekovich, in Air Mail's interview. Armie Hammer and Elizabeth Chambers married in 2010 but split in 2020. Leon Bennett/WireImage Lorenze shared purported explicit text messages between her and Hammer with Page Six, telling the outlet that Hammer carved the letter "A" near her vagina with a knife. "These latest messages are just further evidence of the reality of his dangerous proclivities and his reaction shows his blatant disregard for the women he has traumatized," Lorenze told Page Six. Vucekovich told Page Six in January 2021 that Hammer once told her that he "wants to break my rib and barbecue and eat it," alongside other emotional abuse accusations. Brettler told People at the time that "all interactions between Mr. Hammer and his former partners were consensual. They were fully discussed, agreed upon in advance with his partners, and mutually participatory." Hammer told Air Mail that "the power dynamics were off" and he should have considered how his fame affected consent. "I would have these younger women in their mid-20s, and I'm in my 30s. I was a successful actor at the time. They could have been happy to just be with me and would have said yes to things that maybe they wouldn't have said yes to on their own. That's an imbalance of power in the situation," he told the outlet. Armie Hammer told Air Mail that he contemplated suicide in February 2021. Atsushi Tomura/Getty He later added: "I had a very intense and extreme lifestyle and I would scoop up these women, bring them into itinto this whirlwind of travel and sex and drugs and big emotions flying aroundand then as soon as I was done, I'd just drop them off and move on to the next woman, leaving that woman feeling abandoned or used." When asked if he emotionally abused his accusers, Hammer told the outlet, "one million percent." As a result of the allegations, Hammer said in February 2021 he experienced suicidal ideation while quarantining in the Cayman Islands. "I just walked out into the ocean and swam out as far as I could and hoped that either I drowned, or was hit by a boat, or eaten by a shark," Hammer told Air Mail. "Then I realized that my kids were still on shore, and that I couldn't do that to my kids." Hammer told Air Mail that his interest in BDSM began when he was 13, after experiencing sexual abuse at the hands of a youth pastor for nearly a year. Armie Hammer has remained out of the public eye following the allegations. Phillip Faraone/Getty Images for FIJI Water "What that did for me was it introduced sexuality into my life in a way that it was completely out of my control," Hammer said. "I was powerless in the situation. I had no agency in the situation. My interests then went to: I want to have control in the situation, sexually." Hammer said attending therapy helped him draw a connection between his BDSM interests and abuse. He continued that the sexual abuse he faced as a child "set a dangerous precedent in my life." Hammer's path to accountability may have included help from Robert Downey Jr., who outlets reported paid for Hammer's rehab. A source close to Hammer told Vanity Fair in July 2022 that Downey allowed Hammer to stay in one of his homes while recovering. "There are examples everywhere, Robert being one of them, of people who went through those things and found redemption through a new path. And that, I feel like, is what's missing in this cancel-culture, woke-mob business," Hammer told Air Mail. "The minute anyone does anything wrong, they're thrown away. There's no chance for rehabilitation. There's no chance for redemption. Someone makes a mistake, and we throw them away like a broken disposable camera." In the article, Hammer contended that he doesn't want to be absolved from blame and found personal motivation by working as a sober companion with a fellow addict. "I'm here to own my mistakes, take accountability for the fact that I was an asshole, that I was selfish, that I used people to make me feel better, and when I was done, moved on. And treated people more poorly than they should have been treated," Hammer told Air Mail. Read the original article on Insider HARARE, Feb. 4 (Xinhua) -- The Zimbabwe School Examinations Council (ZIMSEC) has nullified the results of nearly 5,000 Ordinary Level candidates for alleged cheating during the 2022 end of year public examinations. State-controlled newspaper the Herald reported Saturday that 4,961 candidates had their results nullified after ZIMSEC established that they had accessed question papers prior to sitting for particular examinations. ZIMSEC chairperson Eddie Mwenye said Friday that the cheats accounted for 1.78 percent of the 278,760 candidates who sat for the end of year examinations. The overall pass rate for those sitting for at least five subjects was 28.96 percent. While some of the alleged cheats were identified while sitting for the examinations, others were flushed out during marking and grade reviews. "The results of such candidates were nullified for the subjects in question in accordance with the Zimsec Act, Section 34. "Candidates, headmasters and members of the public who were caught posting question papers on WhatsApp and those buying them were arrested and appeared in court," Mwenye said. Examination papers which were said to have been leaked were mainly for mathematics and English. The integrity of the country's school examinations system has for years been under siege from cheats who access question papers prior to the date of writing, prompting authorities to rope in the police to fight the scourge. ZIMSEC and school authorities have blamed each other for the leakages, with ZIMSEC insisting that the leakages occur outside its offices and at the schools. One teachers' union also attributed the leakages to poor conditions of service which led some teachers to engage in corruption in a bid to survive. In one of the cases taken to court, a deputy headmaster and an English teacher at a school in Tsholotsho District, Matabeleland North Province, pleaded guilty to charges of criminal abuse of duty after they leaked an English examination paper to selected candidates at their school. Tsholotsho Magistrate Victor Mpofu sentenced the two to three years in jail each, 18 months of which were, however, commuted to community service while the other 18 months were suspended on condition of good behaviour. Another teacher also appeared before another magistrate in the same district for allegedly getting the questions of a mathematics examination through a mobile phone and revising them with his students prior to them sitting for the paper. In other incidents, school teachers and members of the public have written examinations on behalf of some candidates. School administrators and their members of staff are said to be involved in these practices in a bid to boost the pass rates at their institutions, particularly at private colleges seeking to attract more students. Examination centers which would be found to have been complicit would also be deregistered, Mwenye said. Armie Hammer broke his silence in an interview with Air Mail. Dia Dipasupil/Getty Images Air Mail published an interview with Armie Hammer on Saturday, his first since facing sexual abuse claims. Hammer referenced Robert Downey Jr. while discussing cancel culture. Vanity Fair reported in July 2022 that Downey supported Hammer during his recovery from substance abuse. Armie Hammer referenced Robert Downey Jr. while discussing cancel culture and the "woke mob" in his first interview since facing sexual abuse accusations. Two years after sexual misconduct and sexual assault allegations forced Hammer out of the public eye, he spoke to Air Mail's James Kirchick about entering rehab in May 2021 for drug and alcohol abuse. Air Mail noted Vanity Fair reported in July 2022 that Hammer received financial support from Downey Jr. following the allegations and swift backlash. A source told the outlet that Downey Jr. paid for Hammer to spend six months at a rehab facility and allowed Hammer to live in one of his Los Angeles homes. Armie Hammer was forced out of the public eye in 2021. Todd Williamson/E! Entertainment/NBCU Photo Bank via Getty Images Hammer acknowledged that his career was likely over before mentioning Downey Jr. in his Air Mail interview, saying the veteran actor "found redemption through a new path." "What I would say is this: There's examples of people who went through really difficult times and experienced what [the author] Joseph Campbell would call 'the hero's death.' And the hero must die so the hero can be reborn again," Hammer said. Vanity Fair reported that Robert Downey Jr. supported Armie Hammer in July 2022. Amy Sussman/Getty Hammer continued that Downey Jr. is an example of someone "who went through those things and found redemption through a new path." "And that, I feel like, is what's missing in this cancel-culture, woke-mob business. The minute anyone does anything wrong, they're thrown away. There's no chance for rehabilitation. There's no chance for redemption. Someone makes a mistake, and we throw them away like a broken disposable camera," Hammer told the outlet. "Robert and others are examples of what it looks like for a human being to experience pain and then growth. And that aspect of it is something that I aspire to." Story continues Like Hammer, Downey Jr. previously dealt with substance abuse. In 1996, authorities arrested Downey for driving under the influence and for having heroin, cocaine, crack, and a .357 magnum in his vehicle, according to the Los Angeles Times. The Guardian reported that Downey was pardoned in December 2015. Robert Downey Jr. was arrested in 1996. Theo Wargo, NBC/Getty Images In Hammer's interview with Air Mail, he denied any wrongdoing in the face of sexual misconduct and sexual assault allegations. In January 2021, Instagram messages purportedly showing Hammer discussing acts of cannibalism, drinking blood, and sexual domination were released online. Efrosina Angelova, the Instagram account's owner, also accused Hammer of sexual assault and said they had a four-year relationship. Angelova formally accused Hammer of sexual assault in March 2021 during a press conference. Hammer's attorney denied the allegations at the time, and Hammer echoed the statement in his interview with Air Mail, saying: "Every single thing was discussed beforehand. I have never thrust this on someone unexpectedly. Never." The Los Angeles Police Department confirmed to Insider in March 2021 that Hammer was the subject of an investigation, but TMZ reported in December 2021 that charges were unlikely. Armie Hammer addressed sexual misconduct and sexual assault allegations in an interview with Air Mail. Neilson Barnard/Getty Images Additionally, two of Hammer's former partners Courtney Vucekovich and Paige Lorenze spoke out against him in January 2021. Vucekovich alleged to Page Six that Hammer told her he wanted to "break my rib and barbecue and eat it." Lorenze claimed in a separate interview with the outlet that Hammer used a knife to carve the letter "A" near her vagina. Hammer acknowledged Vucekovich and Lorenze's allegations, telling the outlet "the power dynamics were off" and he should have considered how fame can affect consent. "I had a very intense and extreme lifestyle and I would scoop up these women, bring them into itinto this whirlwind of travel and sex and drugs and big emotions flying aroundand then as soon as I was done, I'd just drop them off and move on to the next woman, leaving that woman feeling abandoned or used," he told Air Mail. Hammer also said he contemplated suicide due to the backlash from the allegations, and that he experienced sexual abuse at the hands of a youth pastor when he was 13. He told the outlet it occurred for nearly a year. "What that did for me was it introduced sexuality into my life in a way that it was completely out of my control," Hammer said. "I was powerless in the situation. I had no agency in the situation. My interests then went to: I want to have control in the situation, sexually." Read the original article on Insider Armie Hammer sat down with Air Mail for his first interview in two years. (Photo: Tibrina Hobson/WireImage) Armie Hammer is speaking out, nearly two years after he was accused of rape and abuse by an ex-partner. The Call Me By Your Name star stepped back from the spotlight in 2021, after DMs allegedly belonging to the actor surfaced on an anonymous Instagram account. The messages attributed to Hammer included talk of cannibalism and violent, aggressive sex. Later, former partners of Hammer accused him of non-consensual behavior during their relationship, with one alleging that he carved the letter A on her body without explicit permission. A previous partner accused him of emotional, physical and mental abuse and rape, a case which the Los Angeles Police Department went on to investigate. Hammer broke his media silence in an interview with Air Mail this week, in which he denied having non-consensual sex with any of his previous partners. (Hammer was not charged following the 2021 Los Angeles Police Department investigation into the rape and abuse claims made by Hammers former partner.) He spoke about his interest in BDSM, and said he believed it stemmed from sexual abuse he experienced as a child, which set a dangerous precedent for his future relationships. What that did for me was it introduced sexuality into my life in a way that it was completely out of my control, he told the magazine. I was powerless in the situation. I had no agency in the situation. My interests then went to: I want to have control in the situation, sexually. He also claimed that the rape his accuser publicly discussed was part of their BDSM relationship and a consensual scene that was her idea. She planned all of the details out, all the way down to what Starbucks I would see her at, how I would follow her home, how her front door would be open and unlocked and I would come in, and we would engage in what is called a consensual non-consent scene, CNC, Hammer said, adding that they only had one, scheduled CNC event. While Hammer stated that his relationships were consensual, he added that his behavior towards his partners outside of his marriage to now ex-wife Elizabeth Chambers could be one million percent considered emotionally abusive. Story continues Im here to own my mistakes, take accountability for the fact that I was an a*****, that I was selfish, that I used people to make me feel better, and when I was done, moved on, Hammer explained. And treated people more poorly than they should have been treated. He also acknowledged the summer 2022 stories about him working as a timeshare salesman in the Cayman Islands, where he spent much time following the allegations. Though he was not making money, he became the subject of an immigration investigation over a lack of a work permit. Finding a normal life, he said, was the only route to go as in Hollywood, no one will hire me. No one will insure me. I cant get bonded for a project nothing, he said of his future acting career. And no one will touch me because if they hire me, then they are the people who support abusers. And then theyre liable to get canceled themselves because this fire that is burning itself through town when they throw someone like me on the fire to protect themselves, what they dont realize is happening is all theyre doing is making the fire bigger. And that fire is now out of control and its going to burn everyone. And theyre just continually throwing people on it as sacrifices to protect themselves. Arrow Electronics (NYSE:ARW) Full Year 2022 Results Key Financial Results Revenue: US$37.1b (up 7.7% from FY 2021). Net income: US$1.43b (up 29% from FY 2021). Profit margin: 3.8% (up from 3.2% in FY 2021). The increase in margin was driven by higher revenue. EPS: US$22.01 (up from US$15.29 in FY 2021). All figures shown in the chart above are for the trailing 12 month (TTM) period Arrow Electronics Meets Expectations Revenue was in line with analyst estimates. Earnings per share (EPS) was also in line with analyst expectations. Looking ahead, revenue is expected to decline by 3.4% p.a. on average during the next 3 years, while revenues in the Electronic industry in the US are expected to grow by 5.4%. Performance of the American Electronic industry. The company's shares are up 13% from a week ago. Risk Analysis What about risks? Every company has them, and we've spotted 3 warning signs for Arrow Electronics (of which 2 are concerning!) you should know about. Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned. Join A Paid User Research Session Youll receive a US$30 Amazon Gift card for 1 hour of your time while helping us build better investing tools for the individual investors like yourself. Sign up here JAKARTA (Reuters) - Indonesia plans to intensify talks with China and other Southeast Asian countries to finalise a code of conduct (COC) for the disputed South China Sea, its foreign minister said on Saturday, amid escalating tensions in the strategic waterway. Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi was speaking in Jakarta at the close of a meeting between foreign ministers from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), the 10-member regional bloc chaired by Indonesia this year. "ASEAN's outlook on the Indo-Pacific was central to the discussion," she said. "We also discussed about the COC, the commitment of members to conclude the negotiation of the COC as soon as possible." Negotiations on the COC - a proposed framework to help tackle territorial and maritime disputes in the waterway - have stalled for years as some members states prioritised bilateral ties with China over a regional consensus. Indonesia is preparing to host a round of negotiations on the COC this year, the first taking place in March, the foreign minister said. China claims jurisdiction over almost the entire South China Sea based on its U-shaped "nine-dash line", a boundary found to have no legal basis by the Permanent Court of Arbitration in the Hague in 2016. Earlier this week, the Philippines granted the United States greater access to its military bases, in part due to Beijing's extensive claims in the resource-rich maritime area. ASEAN members the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia and Brunei all have overlapping claims with China in the strategic waterway. Indonesia is not an official claimant but has faced pushback from China over its exploration of oil and gas reserves in the North Natuna Sea. Last month the country sent a warship to the area to monitor a lingering Chinese coast guard vessel. "New approaches" would be explored by all ASEAN member states and Chinese counterparts to make progress on the COC, Sidharto R. Suryodipuro, director of ASEAN cooperation at Indonesia's foreign ministry, said on the sidelines of the event. Story continues "What's important is that all agree that this should be an outlook that is implementable and in accordance with international law," he said. Separately, ASEAN members wrapped up talks having only reiterated support for the bloc's five-point peace plan on Myanmar which includes the cessation of conflict in the conflict-torn nation and the start of dialogue. (Reporting by Kate Lamb; Editing by Ed Davies and Lincoln Feast.) JAKARTA, Indonesia (AP) Southeast Asian foreign ministers vowed to finalize negotiations with China over a proposed pact aimed at preventing conflicts in the disputed South China Sea in their annual retreat on Saturday in Indonesias capital. In the final session of their two-day meeting, the ministers from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations also agreed to unite in their approach to implement a five-step agreement made in 2021 between ASEAN leaders and Myanmars military leader, Senior Gen. Min Aung Hlaing, that seeks to end that countrys worsening crisis. China and the ASEAN member states, which include four rival claimants to territories in the South China Sea, have been holding sporadic talks for years on a code of conduct, a set of regional norms and rules aimed at preventing a clash the disputed waters. Indonesian Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi said that Indonesia, this years ASEAN chair, is ready to host more rounds of negotiations over the proposed pact, the first of which will be held in March. She said ASEAN members are committed to concluding the discussions as soon as possible." Members are also committed to promote implementation of a declaration of conduct, Marsudi added. Marsudi did not elaborate, but in the past, China has accused Washington of meddling in what it calls an Asian dispute. The U.S. has deployed ships and jets to patrol the waters to promote freedom of navigation and overflight. It has often raised alarm over Chinas assertive actions, including its construction of islands where it has placed weapons including surface-to-air missiles. Sidharto Suryodipuro, head of ASEAN Cooperation at Indonesias Foreign Ministry, told reporters in Jakarta that ASEAN member states will push negotiations this year and explore new approaches. All of us agreed that it has to be an effective implementable in accordance with international law, and the code of conduct must fulfill this criteria, Suryodipuro said. Its an exploratory stage. We dont know what shape it will take, but as you know negotiation is a key process that is something we intend to intensify. Story continues China has come under intense criticism for its militarization of the strategic waterway but says it has the right to build on its territories and defend them at all costs. Vietnam, one of the four ASEAN claimant states, has been vocal in expressing concerns over Chinas transformation of seven disputed reefs into man-made islands, including three with runways, which now resemble small cities armed with weapons systems. ASEAN members Cambodia and Laos, both Chinese allies, have opposed the use of strong language against Beijing in the disputes. Indonesia is not among the governments challenging Chinas claim to virtually the entire South China Sea but expressed opposition after China claimed part of Indonesias exclusive economic zone in the northern region of the Natuna Islands. The edge of the exclusive economic zone overlaps with Beijings unilaterally declared nine-dash line demarking its claims in the South China Sea. On the Myanmar issue, Marsudi told a news conference Saturday that ASEAN foreign ministers reiterated the urgent need for Myanmar's military junta to implement the five-point consensus, saying it is very important for ASEAN. On Friday, the ministers urged Myanmars military rulers to reduce violence and allow unhindered delivery of humanitarian aid to pave the way for a national dialogue aimed at ending the crisis. Myanmar is also an ASEAN member, but its foreign minister was excluded from Fridays annual ministers retreat because of his countrys failure to implement the five-step consensus. Marsudi said the ministers agreed that an inclusive national dialogue is key to finding a peaceful resolution to the situation in Myanmar, and that reducing violence and providing humanitarian assistance are paramount for building trust and confidence. She said the lack of progress in Myanmar tests our credibility as a group, and that ASEANs efforts toward peace would be coordinated with those of other countries and the United Nations. Myanmars military leader promised in the five-point agreement to allow a special ASEAN envoy to meet with jailed ousted leader Aung San Suu Kyi and others to foster a dialogue aimed at easing the crisis, set off by the militarys seizure of power two years ago. But Myanmar refused to let an ASEAN envoy meet with Suu Kyi last year, resulting in Min Aung Hlaings exclusion from an ASEAN summit last November. "The public should expect that Indonesia could provide fresh air for finding a political solution to the worsening conflict in Myanmar, said Dinna Prapto Raharja, an international relations analyst from Synergy Policies, an independent think tank. The fragmentation of power in Myanmar is worse and so managing the violence has become more complex, she said. ___ Associated Press writer Edna Tarigan contributed to this report. ___ This story has been corrected to remove reference to Suryodipuro saying Indonesia would involve other countries in negotiations. A baby girl died after a tree in Massachusetts fell and crushed the SUV she was riding in, police and local news reports say. The tree toppled while the SUV was traveling down Route 57 in Southwick on Friday, Feb. 3, Massachusetts State Police told McClatchy News in an email. Police arrived on scene shortly after 12 p.m. The Hampden County District Attorneys office told WWLP that an infant in the SUV died. The woman driving the vehicle was taken to a hospital, WCVB-TV reported. Police did not provide information on her condition, according to Western Mass News. Winds reached about 30 mph in the early afternoon on Friday with gusts reaching as high as 45 mph, according to a weather report from Local Conditions. Both state and Southwick police are investigating the incident, according to WCVB-TV. In early January, a baby was also killed in California when a storm caused a redwood tree to topple onto a home in Sonoma County, McClatchy News reported. Southwick is about 10 miles southwest of Springfield. 7-year-old killed when tree crashes onto familys tent in Great Smoky Mountains 9-year-old killed when 2 trees collapse onto car at familys lake campsite in Maine 4-year-old killed by falling tree in backyard, Colorado sheriff says. Tragic accident A bartender who overserved a man who killed a Euless police detective while driving drunk in 2021 turned herself in, officials said in a statement on Friday. Cala Richardson, 26, the bartender who overserved Dylan Molina, 27, turned herself in to the Parker County Sheriffs Office on Friday morning, according to Lake Worth police. Molina killed Alejandro Alex Cervantes, a Euless police detective, in 2021 while driving drunk and seriously injured Cervantes wife and two children. Molina was indicted in February 2022 and pleaded guilty to the charges last week. He was sentenced to 15 years in prison. Richardson is charged with one count of sale to certain persons, a Class A misdemeanor punishable by up to one year in jail including a $4,000 fine. During the investigation, detectives obtained evidence indicating Molina was overserved by Richardson, who was a bartender at Fuzzys Taco Shop in Lake Worth. Evidence also indicated Richardsons Texas Alcohol Beverage Commission license was expired at the time she served Molina. The Texas Alcohol Beverage Code prohibits the sale of alcohol to a person who is intoxicated. Like most serious alcohol-related crashes, this case has devastated an entire family. said J.T. Manoushagian, Lake Worth chief of police. Todays arrest fulfills a commitment we made early on and that was to fully investigate this senseless crime and hold those responsible accountable. No other arrests are expected in the case, Lake Worth police said. The Texas Alcohol Beverage Commissions administrative investigation is ongoing. Beavercreek Police is continuing its search to find 78-year old Robert Hageman who was reported missing on Monday, according to a post on the City of Beavercreek Police Departments Facebook page. >>PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Beavercreek man remains missing after car found in Mercer County His vehicle, a 2005 Buick Lesabre, was found earlier this week in Mercer County. The car was found Tuesday near the Overdrive on U.S. Route 127, just south of Siegrist-Jutte Road, the Mercer County Sheriffs Office said on its Facebook page. Hageman was last seen driving away from his residence on Leawood Drive in Beavercreek at approximately 7:00 p.m. on Monday. He is a white male, 5-feet 11-inches tall, 156 pounds, has grey hair and blue eyes. Hageman has Dementia and Law Enforcement is concerned for his safety. If you have any information on Hagemans location, please call 911 or contact the Beavercreek Police Department at (937) 426-1225. You can also call 1-888-637-1113, the Ohio Attorney General Missing Person Unit. The White House authorized a $2.2 billion military aid package to Ukraine that includes funds to purchase the Ground-Launched Small Diameter Bomb (GLSDB) rockets, sophisticated new weaponry with a range of nearly 100 miles. Pentagon press secretary Brigadier General Patrick S. Ryder noted the new weaponry would help the Ukrainian military conduct operations in defense of their country, and to take back their sovereign territory in Russian-occupied areas. The new rockets may significantly change the balance of power on the battlefield with Russia. Up until this point, the Ukrainian army has been reliant on American-made HIMARS launchers with roughly half the range. President Joe Biden has faced increasing pressure to ratchet up support for Ukraine and transfer increasingly advanced weaponry. Russias special military operation is set to hit its one-year mark later this February. GLSBD should have been approved last fall, the House Armed Services chairman Mike Rogers (R., Ala.) noted in a recent statement. Every day its not approved is a day its delayed getting it into the hands of a Ukrainian ready to kill a Russia. Despite the new military aid package, the Biden administration has refused to transfer the Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS), with a range of almost 200 miles, to Ukraine despite several requests. Ukraine needs long-range missiles to prevent (the Russian) occupiers from placing their missile launchers somewhere far from the front line and destroying Ukrainian cities with them, Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky during a speech in late January. We will do everything we can to ensure that our partners open up this vital supply, including the delivery of ATACMS and other similar weapons, Still, the White House has remained firm, ruling out providing Ukraine with either ATACMS or F-16 fighter jets in the latest aid package. Since the Russian invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, America has sent approximately $27 billion worth of military aid to Ukraine, according to Reuters. More from National Review TOKYO, Feb. 4 (Xinhua) -- The number of flu patients across Japan in the week ended Sunday has reached warning levels in the country for the first time in three years, the health ministry said. According to data released by the National Institute of Infectious Diseases on Friday, during the week up to Jan. 29, the average number of patients per medical institution nationwide came to 10.36, surpassing the warning level benchmark of 10 per institution. The warning level suggests the possibility of an epidemic occurring in the coming four weeks. About 5,000 regularly monitored medical institutions in all of Japan's 47 prefectures reported a total of more than 51,000 influenza cases during the seven-day period, the data showed. By prefecture, the per-hospital number was the highest in Okinawa at 41.23, followed by Fukui at 25.38, Osaka at 24.34, and Fukuoka at 21.70. Experts here warned that flu infections may further spread unlike normal years after strict COVID-19 countermeasures apparently helped keep flu infections at fairly low levels in 2021 and 2022. By Jody Godoy and Jonathan Stempel (Reuters) - Elon Musk may become even more emboldened in his Twitter use after a jury cleared the billionaire Tesla Inc chief executive over his missive that he had "funding secured" to take his electric car company private. A San Francisco jury took just two hours to unanimously find the world's second-richest person not liable for having allegedly tweeted fraudulently in August 2018 about a possible Tesla buyout. Musk is likely to "double down" on his communication tactics after the verdict, said Minor Myers, a professor of corporate law at the University of Connecticut. "This is only going to embolden him to act as he sees fit," Myers said. Musk ultimately abandoned his effort to take Tesla private, but told jurors early in the three-week trial that he had believed what he wrote in tweets. Karen Woody, an associate professor at Washington and Lee University School of Law, said she thought the case was "rock-solid" against Musk and she was shocked at the verdict. "He pushed the boundaries, and won," she said. "I expect Elon is going to write anything he wants," Musk himself thanked the jury on Twitter -- which he bought in October for $44 billion. "Thank goodness, the wisdom of the people has prevailed," he wrote. The Tesla shareholders who sued Musk had sought billions of dollars in damages. Musk's raw tweeting style has made him a hero for many, and burnished the Tesla brand. He fought hard against accusations that he had not told the truth, with his lawyer, Alex Spiro, telling the jury that the "funding secured" tweet was only technically inaccurate. "Who cares about bad word choice?" Spiro said during closing arguments. The tweets led to Musk and Tesla paying $40 million to resolve U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission civil charges under a consent agreement that Musk has fought unsuccessfully to lift. Story continues "He doesn't want to play by SEC rules as the SEC understands them, and the SEC doesn't want to be perceived as backing down," said Adam Pritchard, a University of Michigan law professor. "I expect them to continue having their difficulties." Still, many analysts said Musk, who has tweeted more than 22,000 times and has about 128 million Twitter followers, has no reason to slow down now. "Many people, when confronted by a lawsuit of this type would have dialed back tweeting," said Kim Forrest, chief investment officer at Bokeh Capital Partners. "But that wasn't the case in the Twitter deal, was it? "Musk lives by his own rules, or so it seems," Forrest said. (Additional reporting by Nivedita Balu; writing by Peter Henderson; Editing by Leslie Adler) February is Black History Month. Created to highlight the contributions by Black Americans to society and culture, this month is also an opportunity to amplify the multifaceted narrative that, at times, has been cut out of classrooms, communities and conversations across the nation. Its also a moment to pay tribute to the extraordinary people who refused to let injustice be ordinary. But when did Black History Month begin? We've got the answer down below, plus other facts about the annual observance. Why is Black History Month celebrated in February? On Sept. 9, 1915, Dr. Carter G. Woodson founded the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History, known today as the Association for the Study of African American Life and History. Woodson, who is also called The Father of Black History, was a Harvard-educated historian and author who also established the "The Journal of Negro History," now called "The Journal of African American History" in 1916 as a vehicle to chronicle the Black experience past and present. Naturally, Woodson was eager to designate a time when the whole nation recognized and celebrated Black history. In 1925, February was chosen as Black History Month because its the birth month of two vital change agents in Black history: Frederick Douglass and President Abraham Lincoln. After escaping his own enslavement in 1838, Frederick Douglass became a relentless abolitionist, orator and statesman. In fact, one of Douglass most revered speeches is The Meaning of July Fourth for the Negro, a brave affront to the hypocritical concept of independence at a time when slavery existed and unchecked racial injustice surged. President Lincolns valuable role can be summarized by his leadership of the Union efforts against the Confederacy, his issuing of the Emancipation Proclamation, and for his other pronouncements and actions against slavery, according to Dr. Frederick Knight, a Morehouse College history professor who specializes in the African Diaspora. Story continues What is the history behind Black History Month? The way Black History Month is celebrated today is not how it began. African Americans have a long tradition of studying Black history as a matter of correcting the historical record and to make claims as citizens, Knight tells TODAY.com. This was especially important during an era when many leading white intellectuals and political leaders argued that African Americans were inferior and established policies that limited Black citizenship rights, Knight says about the backdrop that shaped Woodsons establishment of the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History. Woodsons organization created and publicized Negro History Week in 1925. Following this, the first Negro History Week was celebrated in February 1926. Woodson fervently believed that Black people should be proud of their heritage and all Americans should understand the largely overlooked achievements of Black Americans, Dr. Ivory Toldson, Director of Education for the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, tells TODAY.com. In February 1975, President Gerald R. Ford acknowledged the observance by shedding a light on the achievements that have too long been obscured and unsung of Black citizens in a Message on the Observance of Black History Week. A year later, the week-long observance was expanded to a full month. "The name change to Black History Month was a result of the 1960s movement, which prompted African Americans to claim the identity of Black as a form of self-naming, self-empowerment, and self-realization," Knight says. In 1986, Congress passed Public Law 99-244, which legally declared February 1986 as National Black (Afro-American) History Month. As recorded by the Library of Congress, presidents have issued annual proclamations for National Black History Month since 1996. "We all have a duty to learn and honor the stories, experiences, and contributions of Black Americans no matter what month it is or the sake of our countrys future, Toldson tells TODAY.com. How to celebrate Black History Month beyond February If youre open to going on a trip, historically Black colleges are storied physical sites of Black history. You can also check out historic sites committed to honoring the Black experience like The National Center for Civil and Human Rights in Atlanta, as well as the Smithsonians National Museum of African American History and Culture in Washington, D.C. In classrooms, educators can be intentional about infusing layers of Black history through theater, field trips, and curriculums no matter the month. Dr. Nafeesa Muhammad, assistant professor of history at Spelman College, points to Blackpast.org, naacp.org, and thehistorymakers.org as credible sources to learn about Black history. For me I am Black 365 days of the year, so Im not waiting for a country to acknowledge me or tell me my history, but I think its important for our community and those who believe in the fullness of America to tell the stories of all people groups to our children, Latasha Morrison, diversity expert and author of "Be the Bridge," tells TODAY.com. Its not just the responsibility of the school system, but its the responsibility of every adult to make sure all kinds of stories are told in order to have a complete America," she says. This article was originally published on TODAY.com At least two police departments one in Columbus, Ohio, the other in Miami are celebrating Black History Month in a way some observers are not happy with. The Columbus Division of Police unveiled its History 1 cruiser this month designed in colors and symbols reflecting Black pride and culture. A short video shared by the department on Twitter shows the cruiser with red, black, yellow and green stripes behind the words Black History Month on the front and side and the Martin Luther King quote, Be the peace you wish to see in the world, on the rear window. The video includes audio of Kings famous I Have a Dream speech. The cruiser is aimed to celebrate the achievements of African Americans & recognize their roles in our history, a tweet by the police department read. It also said that citizens should stay on the lookout for the cruiser as it patrols through their community and neighborhoods this month. More than a thousand miles south, in Miami, the citys police department introduced its own Black History Month-themed car on Thursday, according to the Miami Herald. The vehicle is decorated in red, yellow and green with symbols of Black fists and an outline of Africa. A ceremony took place in Overtown, a historically Black neighborhood in Miami, while police honored the first Black men to join the force in 1944. Introducing History 1 our newest cruiser to celebrate the achievements of African Americans & recognize their roles in our history. Be on the lookout for History 1 in your neighborhood & at community events during February. #BlackHistoryMonth #ColumbusPolice #ColumbusOhio pic.twitter.com/o7y9UuOSPy Columbus Ohio Police (@ColumbusPolice) February 1, 2023 Some Twitter users also shared articles about Black police officers experiencing racism within Columbus police department, while others expressed concerns over the departments spending habits with one user tweeting, Imagine cops spending however many thousands on THIS instead of say spending public resources to house, feed and meet peoples basic needs. Sgt. David Scarpitti, a public information officer for the Division of Police, said its cruiser is decorated regularly to commemorate other holidays and events, including LGBTQ Pride Month, Breast Cancer Awareness Month and Veterans Day. The City of Columbus and the Division are proud to celebrate African American history and the achievements made by so many men and women of color during the month of February, he said to NBC News in a statement. In the days after unveiling History 1, we have already been approached by members of the community to have this cruiser be part of several upcoming Black History Month events. More than a thousand miles south, in Miami, the citys police department introduced its own Black History Month-themed car on Thursday, according to the Miami Herald. The vehicle is decorated in red, yellow and green with symbols of Black fists and an outline of Africa. A ceremony took place in Overtown, a historically Black neighborhood in Miami, while police honored the first Black men to join the force in 1944. Miami Police Department unveiled their new Black History vehicle on Thursday. (Miami Police Department) While the two police departments aim to celebrate Black History, many on social media are not happy, calling their efforts a form of cultural appropriation while others cite police violence toward Black people in both cities. The new vehicles appeared days after protests around the nation followed the release of police bodycam video of Tyre Nichols being brutally beaten and arrested by Memphis police three days before he died of his injuries. One Twitter user flagged an article published November 2021 by The Columbus Dispatch finding that Black residents were disproportionately targeted with use-of-force by city police. The study, which analyzed data from 1,128 incidents, found that while Black residents make up only 29% of Columbus population, 52% of Black people were subjects of police use-of-force. In March 2020, Miami police aggressively arrested several Black spring breakers, which the NAACP called an act of racism. One person criticized the look of Miamis police cruiser, saying that the design missed the mark. WTF is going on here, guys? And why a pic of Africa? We're American. It's about recognizing the accomplishments of Black people. Not celebrating we were stolen from Africa to then be frequently thrown in the back of these cruisers. And they only used Black folk for the pics. Your Mom (@jrinrevision) February 2, 2023 Its about recognizing the accomplishments of Black people, the user tweeted. Not celebrating we were stolen from Africa to then be frequently thrown in the back of these cruisers. This article was originally published on NBCNews.com Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Friday blasted Chinas irresponsible decision to send a spy balloon into the airspace of the United States in a call with a Chinese Communist Party official. In deploying the contraption, China jeopardized already-fractured relations with the U.S., Blinken suggested during the discussion with Wang Yi, the director of the CCP central foreign-affairs office. Blinken also confirmed to the official that he would be canceling his upcoming visit to Beijing in light of the incident. I made clear that the presence of this surveillance balloon in U.S. airspace is a clear violation of U.S. sovereignty and international law, that its an irresponsible act and that the PRC decision to take this action on the eve of my planned visit is detrimental to the substantive discussions that we were prepared to have, Blinken said in a statement obtained by Fox News. The Secretary explained that in light of this ongoing issue, it would not be appropriate to visit Beijing at this time. He underscored that the United States is committed to diplomatic engagement and maintaining open lines of communication, and that he would be prepared to visit Beijing as soon as conditions allow, spokesman Ned Price said in a statement. On Thursday, the Defense Department revealed that a Chinese spy balloon had been spotted over the U.S. by civilians on an airplane this week. President Biden initially ordered that it be shot down, but he was rebuffed by the Pentagon, which feared that such action could cause civilian casualties on the ground, the Wall Street Journal reported. The balloon entered the U.S. over Alaska before it flew over Canada and moved to Montana, where it was seemingly monitoring the Malmstrom Air Force Base, the site of nuclear-missile silos, a senior defense official told NBC. The Chinese foreign ministry responded to the episode on Friday, saying it regrets that the airship strayed into the United States by mistake. However, Pentagon spokesman General Pat Ryder rejected Chinese officials explanation that the suspected spy balloon was merely a civilian craft used for meteorological research purposes. Story continues Ryder said: We know that its a surveillance balloon. When asked by a reporter why the U.S. doesnt remove the balloon from the sky since its violating U.S. airspace, Ryder replied: We assessed that it does not pose a risk to people on the ground as it is traversing the continental United States. During a press conference with the South Korean president Friday, Blinken expressed his doubt in Beijings claims that the balloon was a civilian device that had veered off course into the U.S. More from National Review MIAMI (AP) Only a few weeks after his supporters stormed the seat of his country's government, former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro on Friday expressed bafflement at how he could have lost October's election, then smiled silently as a crowd of supporters cried, Fraud! He did not directly address the Jan. 8 assault on the buildings housing Brazils Congress and Supreme Court during his appearance in Miami before a conservative group tied to former U.S. President Donald Trump. Bolsonaro had mimicked Trumps strategy during his own 2020 reelection campaign, for months sowing doubts about the reliability of Brazil's voting machines and then filing a petition to annul millions of votes. He is now under investigation for allegedly inciting the uprising. Like Trump, Bolsonaro has not conceded the election, though unlike the former U.S. president he also has never explicitly said he lost due to fraud. During a question-and-answer session with Charlie Kirk, head of the conservative Turning Point USA, the former Brazilian president rattled off his administration's accomplishments and then provided backers with an opening. Brazil was doing very well, Bolsonaro said. I cannot understand the reasons why (the election) decided to go to the left. After the cries of fraud died down, Kirk, who helped spread Trump's own election fraud lies after the former U.S. president's loss, replied, All I can say is, that sounds very familiar. The event took place at Trump's Miami hotel, underscoring the connection between two populist presidents who fanned suspicion of their democracies' elections, leading supporters to turn violent after their losses. The two were political allies who shared an overlapping set of advisers. Shortly before Bolsonaro's opponent, Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, took office, Bolsonaro moved to Florida, the state where Trump has based himself. Friday's appearance marked part of Bolsonaro's reemergence after spending several weeks in a central Florida suburb. He spoke to some supporters there earlier this week before taking the stage at Trump's hotel late Friday afternoon. Story continues Much of Bolsonaro's Friday speech amounted to a defense of his four years in power, touting job gains, what he said was a lack of corruption in his administration and, in a reference that drew loud cheers, freedom for those who opted out of COVID-19 vaccinations. After his 30-minute appearance, many in the several hundred-strong crowd, often clad in the national colors of yellow and green, swarmed around the 67-year-old former president. Some of Bolsonaro's backers in Brazil have expressed disappointment that he left the country before Jan. 8 and has remained circumspect about the attack. The former president faces legal jeopardy not only from a mushrooming number of investigations into the Jan. 8 uprising but from the country's supreme court, which has censored websites that have spread what it calls lies about Brazil's election. Reynaldo Rossi, a Brazilian farmer visiting Florida to explore a possible relocation there, said he is glad Bolsonaro is staying in the U.S. for now. If he goes back, they are going to create a lot of trouble for him, Rossi said. He would spend a lot of his time down there defending himself instead of leading us. In his speech, Bolsonaro acknowledged Brazilians who have left the country for the U.S., seeming to include himself in that category. As well as we feel here, we always worry about our friends and family that stayed there, he said, referring to Brazil. He also reassured the crowd about the country's future. I believe in Brazil, and I am certain that Brazil will not end with the current government, Bolsonaro said. ___ Hughes reported from from Rio de Janiero and Riccardi from Denver. Far-right former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro speaks during the Turning Point USA event at the Trump National Doral Miami resort on February 03, 2023 in Doral, Florida. Joe Raedle/Getty Images Former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro addressed right-wing activists at a Trump resort on Friday. Bolsonaro did not address how long he plans to extend his stay in Florida. Back in Brazil, authorities are investigating Bolsonaro's role in last month's violent insurrection. It's been nearly a month since former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro promised to go home, where he faces a criminal investigation over his role in stoking an insurrection that saw supporters trash Brazil's capital over debunked claims of voter fraud. Instead of going back, however, the right-wing politician has sought to extend his stay in the United States, to the chagrin of Democrats and others who want him ejected. In Florida, where he came just before the inauguration of his left-wing successor, Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva and days before the riot in Brasilia the right-wing politician has enjoyed American fast food and the support of conservative Brazilian expats. On Friday, Bolsonaro beamed as supporters cheered him at a campaign-style event organized by Turning Point USA, a youth-oriented conservative activist group, and hosted by the Trump National Doral golf resort in Miami. There he boasted of Brazil's economic performance during his time in office and took part in a friendly question-and-answer session led by TPUSA's Charlie Kirk. "Liberty is like a great love, we must care for it every day," Bolsonaro said, addressing the crowd through a translator. He was not asked if he will go back to Brazil, where he faces increasing legal jeopardy. In January, just after a mob of supporters smashed windows at government buildings, in scenes reminiscent of the January 6 insurrection in Washington, Bolsonaro told CNN Brasil that he had originally intended to stay "until the end of the month [January], but I intend to bring forward my return." He has since applied for a six-month visa. Have a news tip? Email this reporter: cdavis@insider.com Read the original article on Business Insider Rishi Sunak, Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, is focused on supplying Ukraine with British military support as fast as possible. Source: governmental announcement after Sunaks conversation with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, reports European Pravda "The leaders discussed the latest situation on the ground in Ukraine and the Prime Minister said he was focussed on ensuring the UKs defensive military equipment reached the front line as quickly as possible," says the announcement. The British government notes that, as part of this effort, Ukrainian soldiers have already started their training on Challenger 2 tanks this week in Great Britain. Both leaders agree that international partners should accelerate the supply of military support to Ukraine, in order to seize the opportunity to push out Russian forces as well as examine how they can prop up the long-term capabilities of Ukrainian Armed Forces. "The Prime Minister said he had met Ukrainian troops training in the UK last week, and was inspired by their courage and the stories of their loved ones back home," the announcement reads. Discussing the preparations to the anniversary of Russian unprovoked full-scale invasion in Ukraine, Sunak and Zelenskyy agreed with the importance of UN partners demonstrating their solidarity with Ukraine once again. Earlier, the British Ministry of Defence showed shared photos of Ukraines tank crews learning to operate Challenger 2 tanks. Journalists fight on their own frontline. Support Ukrainska Pravda or become our patron! When the fine jewelry industry wants to know which direction the trend winds are blowing, it collectively looks to Italy for clues about the styles, designs and motifs that will set the tone for the year ahead. And that effort inevitably leads trend-spotters to the January edition of the Vicenzaoro fair, which takes place annually in Vicenza, the heart of Italys Veneto region. The 2023 edition of the show, which concluded January 24 at the fairgrounds on the outskirts of the city, was the largest in the fairs nearly 70-year history, with 1,300 exhibitors representing 36 countries. More from Robb Report Below are five 2023 jewelry trends that stood out. Statement Bracelets and Collars Marina B Yellow Gold and Diamond Collar Necklace For years, the prevailing jewelry look has centered on layers of delicate pieces stacked on arms, rings, necks, even ear lobes. While that made sense during the pandemic, when jewelry lovers gravitated to more casual, sentimental pieces that worked well together, the pendulum is swinging back toward singular statement jewels designed to be worn alone, for maximum aesthetic impact. Marina B 18-Karat Gold Kashan Machette Cuff At Vicenzaoro, Marina B an Italian fine jewelry brand that carries on the legacy of Marina Bulgari, a scion of the Bulgari family who hit it big with her own colorful line of haute jewels in the 1980s introduced a vintage re-editions collection featuring an 18k gold Kashan Manchette cuff bracelet that resembled Wonder Womans sizable gold cuffs, if only they were clustered with carats upon carats of emeralds, rubies and diamonds. The brand also introduced a spectacular yellow gold collar based on a 1982 necklace, this one set with more than 33 carats of diamonds, furthering the notion that collars are back with a vengeance. Winged Things Roberto Coin Butterly and Dragonfly Brooches Symbolic of rebirth and transformation, butterflies were a popular motif during the pandemic, when consumers turned to baubles invested with meaning. These days, the creatures and their winged cousins, dragonfliesare resonating with high jewelry buyers because of the artistry made possible by their expansive wings, which act as canvases for a kaleidoscope of gems. Story continues The Vicenza-based jeweler Roberto Coin showed numerous, oversized butterfly brooches at the fair, in addition to a growing menagerie of precious insect jewels. Yellow Gold Chains Gismondi1754 Vela Collection Rose Gold and Diamond Necklace The 1980s are calling they want their chains back. Note, however, the difference between the Cuban and curb link chains that have been so ubiquitous lately and the styles that debuted at Vicenza: Link styles are evolving, with nautical styles on the ascent. Gismondi1754 Marea Bracelet Exhibit A: The handsome Vela collection from Genoa-based Gismondi 1754. Inspired by the sea, the brands founder, Massimo Gismondi, created an 18k rose gold collection distinguished by links that recall the carabiners often used on sailing ships. In addition to the necklace, the line also includes a ring and earrings (with and without diamonds). Flexible/Reversible Designs Picchiotti Reversible Xpandable bracelets in Yellow Gold, Diamonds and Mother-of-Pearl For all their focus on tradition, the Italians are masters of technological advancements designed to make jewelry more wearable. The Valenza-based jeweler Picchiotti offers the perfect example. At the fair, the brand showed its new Reversible Xpandable collection of bracelets, necklaces, earrings and rings that can be turned inside out to reveal a different design. In over five decades of brilliance, one common complaint from the women I have met has been a sense of hesitation to wear their fine jewelry every day, particularly diamonds, or the sense of limitation as it relates to color coordinating colored gemstones, founder Giuseppe Picchiotti said in a statement. I love the idea of technology that can solve problems! Ceramic & Other Alternative Materials For a city steeped in gold, Vicenza is home to a startling amount of jewelers who have experimented with non-precious materials that boast other, desirable properties, from lightness to fantastical colors. One of the many Italian firms that lie at this intersection of innovation and tradition is Mattioli, a Torino-based jeweler that introduced a rainbow of ceramics into its Puzzle collection of interchangeable shaped pieces that can be swapped in and out of their 18k gold settings to create different looks throughout the day. Best of Robb Report Sign up for Robb Report's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Click here to read the full article. KABUL, Feb. 4 (Xinhua) -- Two civilians were injured as a blast rocked Police District 2 of Afghan capital Kabul city on Saturday, Kabul's police spokesman Khalid Zadran said. "Two civilians were injured after a sticky bomb struck a vehicle in Police District 2 today on evening," Zadran told Xinhua without providing more details. Eyewitnesses who declined to give their names said that a blast rocked Pashtunistan Watt, a neighborhood in Police District 2, at 6:20 p.m. local time, inflicting casualties. Today we'll do a simple run through of a valuation method used to estimate the attractiveness of South32 Limited (ASX:S32) as an investment opportunity by taking the forecast future cash flows of the company and discounting them back to today's value. We will use the Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) model on this occasion. Don't get put off by the jargon, the math behind it is actually quite straightforward. Remember though, that there are many ways to estimate a company's value, and a DCF is just one method. If you want to learn more about discounted cash flow, the rationale behind this calculation can be read in detail in the Simply Wall St analysis model. Check out our latest analysis for South32 The Model We are going to use a two-stage DCF model, which, as the name states, takes into account two stages of growth. The first stage is generally a higher growth period which levels off heading towards the terminal value, captured in the second 'steady growth' period. To begin with, we have to get estimates of the next ten years of cash flows. Where possible we use analyst estimates, but when these aren't available we extrapolate the previous free cash flow (FCF) from the last estimate or reported value. We assume companies with shrinking free cash flow will slow their rate of shrinkage, and that companies with growing free cash flow will see their growth rate slow, over this period. We do this to reflect that growth tends to slow more in the early years than it does in later years. A DCF is all about the idea that a dollar in the future is less valuable than a dollar today, 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) forecast 2023 2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 2031 2032 Levered FCF ($, Millions) US$1.37b US$1.71b US$1.68b US$1.76b US$1.29b US$1.23b US$1.20b US$1.18b US$1.18b US$1.19b Growth Rate Estimate Source Analyst x9 Analyst x7 Analyst x6 Analyst x1 Analyst x2 Est @ -4.51% Est @ -2.58% Est @ -1.22% Est @ -0.28% Est @ 0.38% Present Value ($, Millions) Discounted @ 8.8% US$1.3k US$1.4k US$1.3k US$1.3k US$846 US$742 US$665 US$604 US$553 US$511 ("Est" = FCF growth rate estimated by Simply Wall St) Present Value of 10-year Cash Flow (PVCF) = US$9.2b Story continues After calculating the present value of future cash flows in the initial 10-year period, we need to calculate the Terminal Value, which accounts for all future cash flows beyond the first stage. For a number of reasons a very conservative growth rate is used that cannot exceed that of a country's GDP growth. In this case we have used the 5-year average of the 10-year government bond yield (1.9%) to estimate future growth. In the same way as with the 10-year 'growth' period, we discount future cash flows to today's value, using a cost of equity of 8.8%. Terminal Value (TV)= FCF 2032 (1 + g) (r g) = US$1.2b (1 + 1.9%) (8.8% 1.9%) = US$18b Present Value of Terminal Value (PVTV)= TV / (1 + r)10= US$18b ( 1 + 8.8%)10= US$7.6b The total value is the sum of cash flows for the next ten years plus the discounted terminal value, which results in the Total Equity Value, which in this case is US$17b. To get the intrinsic value per share, we divide this by the total number of shares outstanding. Relative to the current share price of AU$4.7, the company appears about fair value at a 10% 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 Important Assumptions We would point out that the most important inputs to a discounted cash flow are the discount rate and of course the actual cash flows. You don't have to agree with these inputs, I recommend redoing the calculations yourself and playing with them. The DCF also does not consider the possible cyclicality of an industry, or a company's future capital requirements, so it does not give a full picture of a company's potential performance. Given that we are looking at South32 as potential shareholders, the cost of equity is used as the discount rate, rather than the cost of capital (or weighted average cost of capital, WACC) which accounts for debt. In this calculation we've used 8.8%, which is based on a levered beta of 1.155. Beta is a measure of a stock's volatility, compared to the market as a whole. We get our beta from the industry average beta of globally comparable companies, with an imposed limit between 0.8 and 2.0, which is a reasonable range for a stable business. SWOT Analysis for South32 Strength Earnings growth over the past year exceeded the industry. Debt is not viewed as a risk. Dividends are covered by earnings and cash flows. Dividend is in the top 25% of dividend payers in the market. Weakness No major weaknesses identified for S32. Opportunity Good value based on P/E ratio and estimated fair value. Threat Annual earnings are forecast to decline for the next 3 years. Moving On: Although the valuation of a company is important, it is only one of many factors that you need to assess for a company. It's not possible to obtain a foolproof valuation with a DCF model. Rather it should be seen as a guide to "what assumptions need to be true for this stock to be under/overvalued?" 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. For South32, there are three pertinent aspects you should consider: Risks: You should be aware of the 2 warning signs for South32 (1 makes us a bit uncomfortable!) we've uncovered before considering an investment in the company. Future Earnings: How does S32's growth rate compare to its peers and the wider market? Dig deeper into the analyst consensus number for the upcoming years by interacting with our free analyst growth expectation chart. Other Solid Businesses: Low debt, high returns on equity and good past performance are fundamental to a strong business. Why not explore our interactive list of stocks with solid business fundamentals to see if there are other companies you may not have considered! PS. The Simply Wall St app conducts a discounted cash flow valuation for every stock on the ASX every day. If you want to find the calculation for other stocks just search here. Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned. Join A Paid User Research Session Youll receive a US$30 Amazon Gift card for 1 hour of your time while helping us build better investing tools for the individual investors like yourself. Sign up here SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) California's new law banning new oil and gas wells near homes, schools and other community sites has been put on hold until after voters decide next year whether to throw it out, officials announced Friday. Opponents of Senate Bill 1137 gathered more than 623,000 valid voter signatures to put a referendum on the Nov. 5, 2024, general election ballot, California Secretary of State Shirley N. Weber announced. The challenge means the law, which took effect in January, will be on hold until after voters decide. The bill, which was signed into law by Gov. Gavin Newsom last September, bans new wells within 3,200 feet (975 meters) of locations including schools, homes, day care and health care centers, parks, jails and businesses open to the public. It was celebrated by environmental justice advocates who had been pushing for the regulation for years to lower air pollution in poor neighborhoods and communities of color. But days after the bill passed, Nielsen Merksamer, a law firm that specializes in ballot measures, filed a referendum to overturn SB 1137 on behalf of Jerome Reedy, a board member of the California Independent Petroleum Association. That association has opposed several state and local measures to regulate oil and gas drilling, including bans and phase outs in Los Angeles County and the City of Los Angeles. Authorities on Friday described the killing of a Selma police officer as happening before the officer had a chance to react, and said he was essentially executed. Officer Gonzalo Carrasco Jr. was killed Tuesday while approaching a man, according to Fresno County Sheriff John Zanoni. Carrasco, a 23-year-old native of Reedley, had been an officer since May 2021 and had a baby on the way. Carrasco was on a routine patrol in a police car about 11:52 a.m. Tuesday in a residential Selma neighborhood west of Highway 99, Zanoni said. As Carrasco approached a man whom police have said was 24-year-old Nathaniel Dixon, a felon on probation the officer and the man spoke briefly, Zanoni said. Carrasco turned his car around and as he passed the man again, a homeowner told the officer that Dixon did not belong on the property. (Dixon) was trying to go into that yard like he lived at that house, Zanoni said. Once Carrasco got out of his vehicle, I believe thats when Dixon realized he got me. The officer got out of his cruiser and approached Dixon before the man shot the officer multiple times with a .223 caliber style assault rifle ghost gun an illegally obtained gun that is purchased in parts before it is assembled, Zanoni said. California Gov. Gavin Newsom issued condolences Wednesday following the killing of Selma police officer Gonzalo Carrasco Jr., 24, who was shot to death Tuesday while in the line of duty. We believe we put together a very good case against the suspect, Nathaniel Dixon, regarding the senseless shooting and killing, he said. Dixon appeared in court Friday as he faces charges including first degree murder, but did not enter a plea before the arraignment was continued to a future date. Carrasco did not fire his weapon and investigators would not say Friday whether he was able to draw his weapon before he was shot. The officer was wearing protective equipment, Zanoni said. Dixon was a member of a Fresno-based gang and had a tattoo on his face that resembles a Fresno State Bulldog logo, but Zanoni stopped short of naming the gang. This individual was a convicted felon. He had no right to have that gun; he should have never had that gun, he said. Story continues Nathaniel Dixon, 23, was accused of the shooting death of a Selma police officer on Tuesday, Jan. 31, 2023, according to the Fresno County Sheriffs Office. Selma police Chief Rudy Alcaraz said the shooting happened so quickly that there wasnt a way to prevent the killing in the moment. We all agree there was nothing officer Carrasco could have done. He was essentially executed, he said. Political jabs between Gavin Newsom and Lisa Smittcamp The killing of the officer has sparked a verbal duel between California Gov. Gavin Newsom and Fresno County District Attorney Lisa Smittcamp over Dixons status on Assembly Bill 109 parole, which is commonly called AB 109 or prison realignment. Smittcamp has said AB 109, which Newsom and Democrats in the legislature have supported, allowed Dixon to be let out earlier than sentenced. Newsom said Smittcamp failed to use her prosecution power to charge Dixon with more of his earlier crimes. Carrasco was a 2016 graduate of Reedley High, and authorities said Friday his dream was to be a police officer. His parents are farmworkers. The Selma community has responded with grief over the death of Carrasco, holding multiple candlelight and prayer vigils. A photo of slain Selma officer Gonzalo Carrasco Jr. is seen at a curbside memorial along Pine Street Thursday evening, Feb 2, 2023 in Selma. Fresno County Sheriff John Zanoni announces an update on the killing of Selma police officer Gonzalo Carrasco Jr. at a press conference Friday, Feb 3, 2023 in Fresno. Fresno County District Attorney Lisa Smittcamp, with Selma Police Chief Rudy Alcaraz to the far right, releases an update on the killing of Selma police officer Gonzalo Carrasco Jr. at a press conference Friday, Feb 3, 2023 in Fresno. Selma Police Chief Rudy Alcaraz, center, flanked by Fresno Sheriff John Zanoni, left, and Fresno County District Attorney Lisa Smittcamp, right, releases an update on the killing of Selma police officer Gonzalo Carrasco Jr. at a press conference Friday, Feb 3, 2023 in Fresno. Fresno County District Attorney Lisa Smittcamp, center, flanked by Fresno County Sheriff John Zanoni, left, and Selma Police Chief Rudy Alcaraz, right, releases an update on the killing of Selma police officer Gonzalo Carrasco Jr. at a press conference Friday, Feb 3, 2023 in Fresno. SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) Children in California won't have to get the coronavirus vaccine to attend schools, state public health officials confirmed Friday, ending one of the last major restrictions of the pandemic in the nation's most populous state. Gov. Gavin Newsom first announced the policy in 2021, saying it would eventually apply to all of California's 6.7 million public and private schoolchildren. But since then, the crisis first caused by a mysterious virus in late 2019 has mostly receded from public consciousness. COVID-19 is still widespread, but the availability of multiple vaccines has lessened the viruses' effects for many offering relief to what had been an overwhelmed public health system. Nearly all of the pandemic restrictions put in place by Newsom have been lifted, and he won't be able to issue any new ones after Feb. 28 when the state's coronavirus emergency declaration officially ends. One of the last remaining questions was what would happen to the state's vaccine mandate for schoolchildren, a policy that came from the California Department of Public Health and was not impacted by the lifting of the emergency declaration. Friday, the Department of Public Health confirmed it was backing off its original plan. CDPH is not currently exploring emergency rulemaking to add COVID-19 to the list of required school vaccinations, but we continue to strongly recommend COVID-19 immunization for students and staff to keep everyone safer in the classroom, the department said in a statement. Any changes to required K-12 immunizations are properly addressed through the legislative process. The announcement was welcome news for Jonathan Zachreson, a father of three who lives in Roseville. Zachreson founded the group Reopen California Schools to oppose many of the state's coronavirus policies. His activism led to him being elected to the Roseville City School District board in November. Story continues This is long overdue. ... A lot of families have been stressed from this decision and worried about it for quite some time," he said. I wish CDPH would make a bigger statement publicly or Newsom would make a public statement ... to let families know and school districts know that this is no longer going to be an issue for them. Representatives for Newsom did not respond to an email requesting comment. California has had lots of influence over the country's pandemic policies. It was the first state to issue a statewide stay-at-home order and other states were swift to follow. But most states did not follow California's lead when it came to the vaccine mandate for public schools. Officials in Louisiana announced a similar mandate, but later backed off. Schools in the District of Columbia plan to require the COVID-19 vaccine starting in the fall. Republican U.S. Rep. Kevin Kiley, a former member of the state Assembly who challenged Newsom in a failed recall attempt in 2021 over his pandemic policies, published a blog post declaring: We won. To Gavin Newsom: You lost. Kevin Gordon, a lobbyist representing most of the state's school districts, said he did not think the policy change was the result of political pressure by Republicans, but instead a reflection of the virus's slowing transmission rates. The public's appetite for these kinds of mandates is definitely not what it used to be, he said. If you started to now impose a heavy mandate when the amount of transmission is significantly lower than it was statewide, a one-size-fits-all solution doesn't work right now. US Coast Guard The US Coast Guard rescued a man as the ship he was on capsized on Friday. Jericho Labonte was on a stolen ship and was also wanted in connection with dead fish left on the porch of the "Goonies" house. He was also wanted on warrants in Canada. The US Coast Guard rescued a man from a stolen boat that almost capsized only to learn that he was the same man suspected of leaving a dead fish on the porch of the "Goonies" house in Astoria, Oregon, police said. In a series of tweets, the Coast Guard said they were conducting a training mission at the mouth of the Columbia River when two aircrews received a mayday call from a boat named Sandpiper. The video shows the boat was in the middle of the surf just floating back and forth on Friday morning. Since the conditions were so bad, boats could not be sent in to rescue the man. Instead, the Coast Guard said aircrews decided to lower a rescue swimmer and have the man on board jump into the water. The boat capsized right as the man on the boat entered the water. According to the Coast Guard, the on-scene conditions were "20-foot seas and extremely high windspeeds." "As he entered the water the vessel capsized but the rescue swimmer was able to safely recover the individual. He was flown back to Coast Guard Base Astoria where EMS was waiting to evaluate and treat the man," the Coast Guard said. Local station KPTV reported that police in Astoria, Oregon, arrested the man, identified as 35-year-old Jericho Labonte of Canada, later that night. Two days before the Coast Guard rescued Labonte, police said they received a call about the dead fish incident. Labonte had been caught on surveillance footage two days prior to the rescue leaving a dead fish on the porch of the house made famous from the cult classic film "The Goonies," Astoria police said in a statement. Story continues Labonte also appeared to have videotaped himself as he left the dead fish on the porch and uploaded it to his Facebook. The surveillance footage was shared with local station KGW and appears to show a man also trying to cover the security cameras with stickers. On Friday, after Labonte has been discharged from the hospital, the police received a call from Port Security Chief Matt Hansen that the ship that was involved in the rescue was stolen. "He recognized the vessel on the video, contacted the owner, and confirmed that it had been stolen. At about the same time, we received calls from several citizens identifying the rescued victim as Labonte," the police said. Police said Labonte was wanted on charges of Theft I, Endangering Another Person, Unauthorized Use of a Vehicle, and Criminal Mischief II, and was later found and arrested at a warming center on Friday night. Labonte is also wanted in Canada on warrants for criminal harassment, mischief, and failure to comply, the Victoria police department shared in a tweet. Read the original article on Insider You will be able to hitch a ride for free on Saturday through the Charlotte Area Transit System on Transit Equity Day. Transit Equity Day is a national day to honor civil rights activist Rosa Parks. All CATS bus routes, para-transit, lynx blue and gold lines are free. ALSO READ: CATS looking for artists to integrate art into new South End Station If you have any questions about where you can get a free ride, you are asked to call CATS at 704-336-RIDE. >> In the video at the top of the page, see you how you can catch a free ride. (WATCH BELOW: CATS operators, negotiators reach tentative labor agreement to avoid bus drivers strike) Central State University has been awarded a $3 million grant from the Department of Commerces National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) to help with the universitys technology infrastructure, according to a spokesperson for U.S. Senator Sherrod Browns office. >>RELATED: Central State University raises $320K on Giving Tuesday It is part of the Connecting Minority Communities (CMC) Pilot Program. These funds will help ensure Central State University has the tools and resources to equip students with the skills and knowledge they need to advance their careers, said Brown. This investment will not only support faculty and students, but will also lead to more technological development and economic growth in the Miami Valley region. The CMC Pilot Program is part of the Biden Administrations Internet for All initiative to help connect American with affordable high-speed internet service, according to Brown. The program directs funds from the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2021 to expand high-speed internet access to eligible Historically Black Colleges or Universities (HBCUs). Rural Georgia families say theyre living in doctor deserts, meaning they have no access to adequate medical care for their children. Some families told Channel 2 Action News that theyre traveling more than an hour away just for checkups. Channel 2 investigative reporter Ashli Lincoln found this is because there are no pediatricians in many of these communities. She found there is a push from the state level to change this. Families who Channel 2 Action News spoke with say theyre desperate and are willing to travel as far as they need for basic health care. Barnesville stay-at-home mother Candace Harwood said healthcare for her two sons is hard to come by. [HAVE A STORY FOR 2 INVESTIGATES? Submit your story idea here] Their small rural Georgia community only has one pediatrician. If we had more resources, especially in rural areas, I know were not the only family that has specific needs, Harwood said. Just to have more access to things because you never know whats going to happen to your child. Her son David has a seizure disorder. The hardwood family makes monthly visits to Childrens Healthcare of Atlanta, turning checkups into road trips (Its) 55 to 58 minutes below Atlanta. So youre packing up all these bags, youre packing extra outfits. Sometimes youre packing blankets, making like little forwards in the bag so you can stop and rest and decompress, Harwood said. And she isnt alone. MORE STORIES FROM 2 INVESTIGATES: Story continues Albany mother Laterria Wagstaff told Lincoln that she drives an hour and a half for quality pediatric care for her children because she said local doctors offices are overcrowded and lack detailed care. I just felt like I spent more time in the waiting room versus being in a room with a doctor, Wagstaff said. I dont care how high the gas is if I know that where Im going is going to get my child the best care and thats what Im getting paid. No, no question. Dr. Lindsey Burnett is a pediatrician at Zoey Pediatrics in Barnesville. She told Lincoln that she sees firsthand families traveling across county lines to find adequate pediatric care. Specialties in health and mental health for kids are few and far between, Burnett said. We do see a lot of patients that drive a long way to get to us. According to data Channel 2 Action News analyzed from the Georgia Composite Medical Board, more than 60 Georgia counties do not have a pediatrician. We discovered Putnam and Haralson counties have one pediatrician practicing in their counties. There are 15 pediatricians are registered in Rockdale County. In Newton, Gilmer, Pickens, and Spalding counties, there are 10 or fewer. Its a staggering contrast to metro counties like Fulton and DeKalb which have more than 600 registered pediatricians combined. This has definitely been on the radar with the Georgia Legislature, said Amy Reeves, a pediatric physician assistant, and member of the Georgia Healthcare Workforce Commission. You are not utilizing your workforce to their full potential, and you have rural Georgians who are not getting the care they need. Reeves said increasing the number of state-mandated physician assistants who can practice under a doctor would be pivotal in increasing healthcare in rural Georgia. Currently as it stands, one physician can supervise four nurse practitioners and four Pas, Reeves said. The commission outlines the need for allowing more PAs to assist in practicing medicine under a doctors supervision in a recent commission report sent to Gov. Brian Kemp last December by allowing more PAs to help assist and treat patients. We can definitely see patients, treat patients, order any dialogistic test that needs to be ordered, Reeves said. Georgia definitely lags behind the rest of the country. Back in rural Georgia, Harwood and thousands of other families say they hope pediatric care expansion comes soon. I think that it should be more readily available and then itll make you feel less isolated, Harwood said. From our investigation, we also found these communities are also dealing with a shortage of dentists, ER Doctors, and a psychologist -- a need as you can imagine these families desperately want. IN OTHER NEWS: A Charlotte man will serve at least 50 years in prison after a Mecklenburg County jury convicted him of molesting boys dating back more than a decade. Gromoka Carmichael, 38, was sentenced Thursday to between 600 and 820 months in custody after he was found guilty of multiple sexual offenses involving two male victims, including statutory sexual offense, three counts of first-degree sexual offense, and attempted first degree sexual offense involving two victims. Defense attorney Bob Trobich, who did not immediately respond to a Friday phone call by The Charlotte Observer, gave notice of an appeal at the close of the trial. Both of Carmichaels victims testified against him, as did a third boy who likewise accused the defendant of abusing him. The latters allegation had not factored into the criminal charges heard by the jury and Superior Court Judge Donnie Hoover. All the victimes were between the ages of 7 and 11 when the assaults occurred. In each case, according to the Mecklenburg County District Attorneys Office, Carmichael was either a relative or close friend of the childrens mothers or grandmothers. Its always someone you know, said the Charlotte mother of one of the victims, who asked that she and her child not be identified. She said her son had waited 10 years before ever telling her of Carmichaels abuse. Kids be scared, the mother told The Charlotte Observer, when asked why her son had stayed silent for so long. I just hope that this story can bring a lot of children forward, to not be afraid, to know that the Mecklenburg County District Attorneys Office is going to go. Theyre going to do whatever they need to do to get justice for the families. The case against Carmichael surfaced in 2018 when one of his victims reported that he had been assaulted by Carmichael shortly after it happened. Around that same time, the teenage son of the Charlotte mother first told her of being assaulted by Carmichael years earlier, when he was 7 or 8. The mother said Carmichael, who she knew as Pookie, was a close friend of hers at the time of the abuse. Story continues The mother said thought her sons case was an isolated one. My son told me, we went downtown, and maybe four days later, they went and locked him up. They were already investigating him. Praise God, the mother recalled. When the shock wore off, I was able to put things in a little perspective. I thought, Hes done this to other children? I was devastated. Both the mother and son testified at Carmichaels trial. The ban on witnesses being in the courtroom kept her from hearing the son took the witness stand. It wasnt until closing arguments Thursday when the mother says she finally heard a full account of Carmichaels abuse of the three boys, including her own. I was trying to hold myself together in that seat. You know, you cant get loud, the mother said. I was trying to not cry too much. But I was looking at (Carmichael) and thinking, You hurt a child. You had your way with another persons child. It was devastating. For now, she said, shes been bolstered by the relief shes seen in her sons face. Asked if she had a message for Carmichael, her former friend, the mothers voice dropped and her cadence slowed. Ive been searching for some way to forgive you because I have to forgive you to move on, she said. Im still trying. Im still praying. Meanwhile, the mother of the first victim to come forward had a different reaction. I hope he rots in hell, she told the Observer on during a Friday phone interview. She, too, had become a friend of Carmichaels after the two had worked together in a nursing home. She knew Carmichael as Butterfinger. The second mother and her son, now 15, also testified at the trial. She said she broke down and almost passed out on the witness stand. I started talking about it, and I couldnt take it, she said. Seeing him there took me back to those days, when she says her family confronted Carmichael at his home before calling police. Her son was riding in the backseat of the car while his mother spoke. Asked if it had been an ordeal to testify against his abuser, the 15-year-old said it had not, that it was something he felt he had to do. A front door. David Papazian/Getty Images Welcome to The Check-In, our weekend feature focusing on all things travel. Most travelers will soon have to fill out an online application to visit the UK As part of efforts to fully digitize its borders by 2025, the United Kingdom is launching the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system, which is expected to be up and running by the end of 2023. All foreign nationals will have to apply online for an ETA before arriving in the UK, providing "basic personal details, passport data, and some security information," the ETA UK website says. People can apply from their own homes there's no need to go to an embassy and most will be approved quickly, "with only complex decisions made by ETA officials." There will be a fee, which has yet to be announced. This isn't a visa, and the website stresses that "Europeans and travelers from countries including the US and Canada will maintain their visa-free status but will need an ETA to cross the UK border." The details are still being worked out, but it's likely the ETA will be valid for at least two years, meaning regular visitors will not have to keep reapplying. London. Manuel Romano/NurPhoto via Getty Images Frontier introduces new all-you-can-fly pass for the summer For the budget adventurer, this may be too good of a deal to pass up. Frontier Airlines has launched its GoWild! Summer Pass, with a limited number available for $399. With this pass, travelers can take an unlimited number of flights between May 2 and Sept. 30 (note: there are some blackout periods), booking one day in advance for domestic destinations and up to 10 days ahead for international. Each segment will cost one cent to book, plus any taxes, fees, and additional charges like choosing a seat or checking in a bag. Daniel Shurz, Frontier's senior vice president of commercial, said in a statement the pass is "a terrific opportunity" for people with flexible schedules to "have a truly epic summer and then some, soaking up the rays on the beach, exploring national parks, and visiting new cities." This also coincides with Frontier starting a new nonstop service between San Juan Airport in Puerto Rico and Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport, Cleveland Hopkins International Airport, Chicago Midway International Airport, Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport, and Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport. Story continues A Frontier plane. Elizabeth Page Brumley/Las Vegas Review-Journal/Tribune News Service via Getty Images Advice on protecting your home while on vacation, from Lockly's Katie Crockett Whether it's a weekend getaway out of town or a month-long romp through the Mediterranean, when you're away, the last thing you want to worry about is the security of your home. Katie Crockett, director of retail sales for the smart lock company Lockly, shared with The Week some tips on how to best protect your property while you're traveling. Before hitting the road, "remove your spare key, which all too often may be hidden in common places such as under a doormat or flower pot," Crockett said. "Seasoned burglars know this trick very well and will search every nook and cranny to find your key, however well you think you've hidden it." It's also a good idea to put up "visible deterrents around the outside of the house," like "Beware of Dog" warnings, CCTV, and security system placards. "These signs indicate loud and clear that your house is under surveillance, making potential intruders think twice," Crockett said. When it comes to securing your doors, think about the differences between a smart lock and a traditional lock. A smart lock "is a door access control device that locks or unlocks the door when it receives a prompt via an electronic keypad, biometric sensor, access card, or over Bluetooth or WiFi from a registered mobile device," Crockett said. "Most smart locks have numerous ways to access them (some even include a traditional key as well), such as smartphone apps, by entering a PIN on a keypad, using a fingerprint reader/sensor, or swiping a key fob. This provides both improved security and a frictionless user experience." The exterior of a house. Ed Freeman/Getty Images When thinking about installing smart locks, "consider biometric options that allow people to use their fingerprints to access your door," Crockett said. Video smart locks are "becoming increasingly popular and come equipped with an HD camera built-in, which allows homeowners to monitor the area outside their front door via a smartphone, even while on vacation anywhere in the world." Don't forget to protect more than just the main door. "There are other vulnerable entry points to consider, including the back door, patio doors, or garage doors," Crockett said. "Remember to secure these entry points with the same quality of lock as you use on the front door otherwise, you create a weak point for burglars to exploit. Using smart locks which feature motion sensors can come in handy here, as they can quickly detect anyone loitering at the rear or sides of your property and trigger an alert on your smartphone while you are away." If possible, set timers on lights so they can turn on throughout the day, and "it's always smart to inform a trusted neighbor that you will be gone as well and to keep an eye out for any suspicious activity," Crockett said. Plan accordingly: Upcoming events to add to your calendar Canberra will come alive during the Enlighten Festival March 3-19. Now in its 13th year, the festival is all about celebrating culture and creativity, and has seven signature events, including the Canberra Balloon Spectacular, Symphony in the Park, and Lights! Canberra! Action!, a short film festival. During Illuminations, the spotlight is truly on Canberra, as projections are placed on some of the city's most well-known buildings, like the Australian Parliament House, National Portrait Gallery, National Library of Australia, and National Gallery of Australia. For more travel news and features, sign up for The Week U.K.'s Travel newsletter, delivered to your inbox every two weeks. You may also like Yale honors Black girl who had the police called on her for spraying lanternflies United States shoots down Chinese spy balloon over Atlantic Ocean Matthew McConaughey starred in How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days due to advice from a fortune teller By Michael Martina, Humeyra Pamuk and David Brunnstrom WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The political uproar over a suspected Chinese spy balloon drifting over the United States did not just derail a planned visit to Beijing by the top U.S. diplomat, it also threatens to upset attempts by both countries to steady an increasingly rocky relationship. The reaction in the United States to what appears to be an ill-timed spying mission will have lingering consequences for efforts to stabilize ties already near historic lows. Some U.S. lawmakers are demanding that President Joe Biden, a Democrat, hold China to account for what officials are calling an unacceptable violation of U.S. sovereignty. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, who postponed a trip that was to begin on Friday, said he would be prepared to visit Beijing "when conditions allow," but the administration could be hard pressed to quickly revive the trip short of China offering up serious gestures of goodwill, policy analysts said. Daniel Russel, the top U.S. diplomat for Asia under then-President Barack Obama, said China's "laughable alibi" that the aircraft was an errant weather balloon, didn't help. "This incident has soured the atmosphere and hardened positions and there's no guarantee the two sides can successfully resurrect the 'Bali' momentum," Russel said, referring to the November meeting between Biden and Chinese leader Xi Jinping in Indonesia where they agreed to increase communications. Ties between the superpowers have frayed over the past few years and sank to their worst in decades last August, when then U.S. House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi visited Taiwan, prompting Beijing to conduct military drills near the Chinese-claimed island. Since then, the Biden administration has said it hopes to build a "floor" for the relationship and ensure that rivalry does not spiral into conflict. But Republicans who control the House are already working on ways to investigate potential threats from the United States' top geopolitical rival and have been quick to put heat on Biden about the balloon, questioning how it was allowed into U.S. airspace. Story continues CALLS TO SHOOT DOWN BALLOON Michael McCaul, the Republican chair of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, on Friday demanded to know why the administration had not shot the balloon down, accusing the president of allowing it to pose "a direct and ongoing national security threat to the U.S. homeland." China has often complained about surveillance of its growing military by U.S. ships and aircraft, though such operations in recent years have been conducted from widely recognized international waters and airspace. The mood in China over the balloon was also glum. The government expressed regret that an "airship" used for civilian meteorological and other scientific purposes had strayed. Some Chinese domestic commentators were scathing, however, about the U.S. response. "If Blinken were to cancel his trip to Beijing because of the balloon, I'd see it as him using that as an excuse to do what he had wanted to do anyway - not visit China," said Zhu Feng, executive dean of the School of International Relations at Nanjing University, speaking before the State Department announced the trip's cancellation. Had Blinken gone ahead with the visit, it likely would have opened the administration to more strident criticism that its approach toward was China weak and poor optics in Congress where there is bipartisan support for a hard line on Beijing, some analysts said. MISSED OPPORTUNITIES Expectations for Blinken's trip had been low, but he had intended to raise by name the cases of American citizens the United States says are wrongfully detained in China, and push Beijing to cooperate on stemming the flow of fentanyl, both areas where any progress would have built momentum that could carry into other discussions. Ivan Kanapathy, a former White House National Security Council deputy senior director for Asia, said he anticipated a string of hearings in Congress about China that would make it difficult for Blinken to justify a trip to Beijing unless he can win the release of detained Americans or return with another major prize. China, too, wants a stable U.S. relationship so it can focus on its economy, battered by the now abandoned zero-COVID policy. Blinken's visit - what would have been the first by a secretary of state to China since 2018 - was seen largely as an effort to develop ways to navigate future crises. With a trip to Taiwan by new House Speaker Kevin McCarthy likely this year, the next crisis might not be far off. "Overall, I do think the Biden administration would like to reschedule, as there are many issues on the table and a real chance for a thaw. But the balloon incident probably means the thaw is postponed indefinitely," said RAND Corporation Indo-Pacific analyst Derek Grossman. But Ryan Hass, a China expert at the Brookings Institution, said on Twitter that China's balloon operation had at least given the United States and China a chance to work out rules of engagement in space and at high altitudes, where the two countries' militaries will come into increasingly close contact. "We should not squander this opportunity to materially reduce risk and also prevent future violations of U.S. airspace by PRC spy balloons," Hass said. (Reporting by Michael Martina, Humeyra Pamuk and David Brunnstrom; Editing by Don Durfee and Grant McCool) (Bloomberg) -- Star gazing is nothing unusual in Montana, where skies go on forever. But as Chase Doak left work on a Wednesday and looked up on a cold winter day he saw a mysterious round white object that was clearly neither the moon or a star. Most Read from Bloomberg He began to film something that could come straight out of a movie where science fiction meets the Wild West. Within 48 hours the strange thing that went on to confound the residents of Billings was revealed to be a suspected Chinese surveillance balloon. Not gonna lie, tweeted Doak as his video went viral. First, I thought this was a #ufo. Then, I thought it was @elonmusk in a Wizard of Oz cosplay scenario. But it was just a run-of-the mill Chinese spy balloon! Its journey across the ocean gripped the worlds attention and forced the top US diplomat to cancel his trip to Beijing, leaving the two superpowers grasping for ways to deescalate tensions. On Saturday afternoon, a US military jet shot the balloon out of the sky. This account of how a balloon burst diplomacy just as Secretary of State Antony Blinken was set to travel to China and meet with President Xi Jinping is based on conversations with several officials briefed on the matter who asked to stay anonymous to discuss intelligence matters. As it turns out, US authorities were well aware of the unidentified object that had entered American airspace on Jan. 28, that had then left and re-entered over North Idaho on Tuesday. But with such a high-profile trip at stake, keeping it on the down-low was key. By the time the thing became visible in Montana, President Joe Biden had already been briefed and the White House was scrambling to decide whether to blast it from the sky. Story continues The gravity of the situation was only exacerbated by Montana being home to Malmstrom Air Force Base, which houses a large portion of the USs Minuteman intercontinental ballistic missiles. The Biden administration knew it had to exercise extreme caution especially in what was a heated political environment ahead of 2024 elections, with Republicans agitating on which party could strike a harder or tougher line on China. As the balloon continued to hover over the Big Sky state on Wednesday, Biden huddled with his national security team to receive a detailed briefing. The president argued for shooting the object down, but was urged against doing so by his most senior military advisers. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Mark A. Milley insisted that such a move would put civilians at risk. Caught Off-Guard The president ultimately decided to let the balloon continue on its way as the US sought answers from the Chinese embassy in Washington, but they struggled to obtain satisfactory responses. US officials said they were baffled by China, which itself appeared to be caught off-guard by the bizarre incident. For now, the White House opted not to inform the American public. Events, however, soon forced Bidens hand. On Thursday afternoon, the Billings Gazette, a local Montana paper, published a photo of the balloon meaning it was only a matter of time until national media would pick up on the report and the Biden administration would have to face questions. The pace of discussions in the White House quickened. In a call starting at 5:15 p.m. on Thursday, the administration finally went public. That spurred a rush to brief lawmakers on Capitol Hill. The Biden administration will hold a briefing next week for the Gang of Eight, a group of lawmakers including the chairs and ranking members of the House and Senate intelligence committees. Republican Outcry In an effort to keep things calm, administration officials stressed this was not the first such incident and that similar activities had been observed over the past several years, including during the prior administration. The Pentagons announcement prompted an outcry from Republicans. Former President Donald Trump posted on his Truth Social website to shoot down the balloon. Others, from former Secretary of State Michael Pompeo to Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene, framed the decision not to shoot down the balloon as a sign of weakness by Biden. The biggest question was how would China respond to all the furore that was unfolding at a rapid pace as Asia was asleep. After earlier calling on the US to refrain from hyping the incident, China finally commented on the balloon directly in a statement Friday morning Washington time, attributing it to a force majeure for which it was not responsible. China said the balloon blew off course and entered US airspace by accident, adding that it is regretful over the incident and that the balloons purpose was climate research. Administration officials are privately dismissive of Beijings explanation, as are former American intelligence analysts. The official Chinese explanation mirrored a well-worn excuse for aerial espionage. I do not know of anyone who constructs a meteorological balloon the size of three school buses, said Dennis Wilder, the Central Intelligence Agencys former deputy assistant director for East Asia and the Pacific. No Choice US officials, who had spent hours debating whether Blinken should scrap a long-planned trip to Beijing, finally felt they had no choice but to postpone the first high-level US visit to China in five years. A delay was not a cancellation. It sent a signal that the US had no desire to escalate matters. The sentiment among those in the room was that the trip wasnt worth the potential domestic political costs of going, given that Blinkens talks in China were not expected to yield much in the first place. Bidens team worried that the incident would serve as more fodder for Republicans who believed the administration is weak on China, especially if the balloon crashed and hurt someone while Blinken was in Beijing. A split screen of a spy satellite over the United States when Secretary Blinken lands in Beijing would not have been tenable, said Ryan Hass, a senior fellow at the Brookings Institution and a former Director for China, Taiwan and Mongolia on the National Security Council. Meanwhile, the balloon continued its voyage eastward across the continental US, heading toward Washington. The balloon is not going away, said Wilder, the former CIA officer. The problem, he said, is that China has no way to take it back so it will drift over the continental US for an unknown time frame before coming down. By Saturday afternoon, and with the balloon now moving away from land, the US clearly signaled it was taking the matter into its own hands. Were going to take care of it, Biden told reporters. A few hours later, US fighter jets had shot it down off the South Carolina coast. As far as officials were concerned, the US had communicated it reserved the right to take action. The relationship with China wouldnt exactly get easier, but US officials were confident both countries would find a good reason to put the whole thing behind them. --With assistance from Iain Marlow, Brian Platt and Lindsey Rupp. (Updates last paragraph to reflect balloon was shot down.) Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2023 Bloomberg L.P. SHANGHAI (Reuters) - China said on Saturday that mutual political trust with Russia has continued to deepen after Vice Foreign Minister Ma Zhaoxu visited the country this week and met with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov. China is willing to work with Russia to implement their strategic partnership and promote further progress in their relationship, the foreign ministry also said in its statement. Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin announced a strategic partnership in Moscow a year ago aimed at countering the influence of the United States and which they said would have no "forbidden" areas of cooperation. Ma also met with Russia's Deputy Foreign Ministers Andrey Rudenko and Sergey Vershinin during his Feb. 2-3 visit, the statement said. During his meetings, he exchanged views on bilateral and multilateral cooperation as well as international and regional issues of common concern, it added. The statement comes on the heels of heightened tension between China and the United States after the flight of a Chinese balloon over U.S. airspace. Washington has described it as a spy balloon while China says it is an airship used for civilian meteorological and other scientific purposes. The uproar has led to the postponement of a visit to China by Secretary of State Antony Blinken that had been expected to start on Friday. The foreign ministry statement about Ma's visit did not mention Ukraine, where Russia has waged a military operation for nearly a year. China has refrained from condemning it or calling it an "invasion". Russia's Foreign Minister Lavrov said on Thursday that Moscow's relations with China had no limits and, despite not being a formal military alliance, were of a much higher and broader nature. (Reporting by Brenda Goh; Editing by Edwina Gibbs) Chinese spy balloon flying above Charlotte Chinese spy balloon flies above in Charlotte NC, United States on February 04, 2023. Credit - Peter ZayAnadolu Agency via Getty Images A U.S. fighter jet shot down a suspected Chinese spy blimp above the Atlantic Ocean off the South Carolina coast Saturday, ending a three-day spectacle that dominated headlines and created an international incident. The operation took place at the direction of President Joe Biden in U.S. airspace as the balloon drifted over the water. Senior defense officials said the balloon was successfully downed by a single missile at 2:39 p.m. I told them to shoot it down, Biden told reporters, during a travel stop in Hagerstown, Md. on the way to Camp David. Downing the large, slow-moving balloon over the ocean reduced the risk of falling debris causing damage or casualties, a concern that military commanders had earlier in the week as it drifted eastward across the country. Biden said he gave the U.S. military authority to take down the alleged surveillance balloon on Wednesday with orders to shoot it once there was no longer a fear of endangering Americans on the ground. Our number one concern was how can we take this down, while not creating undue risk to people or property, a senior defense official told reporters. Chinas Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement late Saturday condemning the strike. The U.S. use of force is a clear overreaction and a serious violation of international practice, the statement said. China will resolutely safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of the company concerned, and reserves the right to make further responses if necessary. The Federal Aviation Administration restricted airspace Saturday afternoon over three cities in North and South Carolina as military assets moved into position. The balloon was flying at roughly 60,000 feet, an altitude about twice that of normal civilian air traffic. In the aftermath of the unmanned balloon being shot down, U.S. officials say, the U.S. Navy and Coast Guard have sent multiple ships to retrieve the wreckage to obtain insights into its surveillance payloadwhats described as a basket of equipment under the craft. Story continues The debris is scattered across a seven-mile area in the Atlantic at depths of around 47 feet, officials said. The exact duration of the recovery mission is unknown at this time, officials said, but its expected to take days rather than weeks or months. Well make sure that were working closely with the FBI on that chain of custody, the official said. The Pentagon hasnt revealed what type of spy technology is on the Chinese balloon, only that the large payload doesnt give China any additional surveillance capabilities beyond what it already can collect through spy satellites currently orbiting the Earth. The balloon has never posed a risk to Americans safety, but it did linger over sensitive sites, a fact that defense officials say gave them new insights into the balloons true mission. We have learned technical things about this balloon and its surveillance capabilities, the official said. And I suspect if we are successful in recovering aspects of the debris, we will learn even more. The Chinese government confirmed that the massive balloon was theirs on Friday, while insisting it was merely a civilian airship used for weather research that accidentally wafted into U.S. airspace. The Pentagon has refuted this benign portrayal, saying the aircraft was just the latest in a string of Chinese balloons that have traversed over the U.S. and other countries collecting aerial intelligence. Read more: The Chinese Balloon Looks Nothing Like a Weather Balloon, Experts Say The U.S. military tracked the balloons flightpath above the Aleutian Islands and Alaska last Saturday, then through Canada on Monday, and ultimately into the United States over Idaho on Tuesday, officials said. Biden asked the Pentagon to come up with options regarding the balloon and the military considered shooting it down Wednesday as it traveled over Montana. The state is home to Malmstrom Air Force Base, one of three bases that hosts nuclear-tipped intercontinental ballistic missile fields. In the end, military commanders recommended not to attempt a shoot-down out of fears that such an act could create falling debris endangering people on the ground. Biden gave the military the greenlight to down it as soon as it was safe. News of the balloons presence over the U.S. came late Thursday when the Pentagon said it was monitoring it while denouncing the Chinese government for illegally penetrating American airspace. On Friday, Secretary of State Antony Blinken canceled a trip to Beijing hours before he was set to depart, underscoring how seriously the White House views the incident. Blinken wouldve been the highest-ranking Biden Administration official to visit China and the first U.S. secretary of state to travel to Beijing in six years. Meanwhile, the balloon continued to leisurely transit over the central U.S., causing Midwesterners to crane their necks in the hopes of catching a glimpse of the immense white aircraft as it flew overhead. Republicans in Congress took notice and called for it to be shot down. House Speaker Kevin McCarthy demanded a briefing for the Gang of Eight, a colloquial term for the Republican and Democrat Congressional leaders who are kept informed on classified intelligence matters from the executive branch. On Saturday, the balloon arrived on the East Coast and the U.S. military had attack aircraft into position. The Air Force scrambled F-22 stealth fighter jets from Joint Base Langley-Eustis in Hampton Va. along with F-15 fighter jets from Barnes Air National Guard Base in Westfield, Mass. In the afternoon, officials said, one of the F-22s soared to an altitude of around 58,000 feet, firing an AIM-9X Sidewinder missile toward the balloon floating less than 10,000 feet above it. The supersonic, heat-seeking, air-to-air missile screeched over the Atlantic, popping the balloon and sending it into the sea. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said in a statement that the shoot-down was lawful and proper, given the intrusion into American airspace to surveil strategic sites in the continental United States. Austin said all actions were taken in coordination with the Canadian government, which helped monitor and track the balloon as it transited North America. However, it remains unclear how much diplomatic damage has been done over this incident and whether the military actions were necessary or a show-of-force that will usher in a more contentious era. I want to complement our aviators who did it, Biden said after it was over. And well have more to report on this a little later. With reporting by Anisha Kohli A woman born in China and adopted by parents in the New Hampshire town of New Boston is now suing them alleging years of abuse, dangerous living conditions and racist treatment. Olivia Atkocaitis, now 19, alleges in the lawsuit filed Monday that her parents, Denise and Thomas Atkocaitis, prevented her from attending public school and imprisoned her in a room in their basement. It also alleges they forced her to perform intense manual labor, beat her and shouted racial slurs at her, among other abuses, for nearly 14 years. Atkocaitis said in the suit she attempted to escape multiple times throughout her childhood but was reprimanded and returned to her homes dangerous conditions by local police each time, according to the lawsuit. The lawsuit says Atkocaitis escaped for the last time in 2018 by digging through the walls of a basement prison and running away to nearby woods. Upon learning of her escape, the New Boston police used dogs to track her, according to the lawsuit. After a private citizen found Atkocaitis covered in dirt from the woods the next day, the New Boston Police Department investigated and arrested her adoptive parents and initiated criminal prosecutions of them for felony-level offenses in September 2018. After pleading guilty to the charge of criminal restraint, Denise Atkocaitis did not serve jail time, while Thomas Atkocaitis served six months after pleading guilty to endangering the welfare of a child, according to New Hampshire Public Radio. Neither Denise, Thomas, nor Olivia Atkocaitis responded to NBC News request for comment. In addition to the alleged racism Atkocaitis experienced from her adoptive parents, the lawsuit also alleges racial discrimination by local and state authorities. Even after police were aware of her mistreatment, the lawsuit states Atkocaitiss caucasian siblings received more protection and attention from state and municipal officials than she did. We explicitly allege race discrimination in the complaint, and as a cause of action with regard to provisions of federal law, with race discrimination and education, Atkocaitiss attorney Michael Lewis told NBC News. Story continues The lawsuit lists the New Hampshire division for Children, Youth and Families, The New Boston Police Department, the states Department of Health and Human Services and adoption agency Wide Horizons for Children as defendants who, separately and together, contributed to the perpetuation of Olivias slavery. The New Boston Police Department, Wide Horizons adoption agency and the states division for Children, Youth and Families did not respond to a request for comment. Jake Leon, Director of Communications at the states Department of Health and Human Services, said they were unable to comment on the case. Atkocaitis was also the only sibling to be withheld from public school by her adoptive parents, according to the lawsuit. The New Hampshire School Administrative Unit 19 is also listed as a defendant in the suit, which states Atkocaitis attended one day of public school, but no one ever checked on her to determine why she never returned. Brian Balke, Superintendent of New Hampshire School Administrative Unit 19, said he was unable to comment on the case. New Boston plans to release a response to the lawsuit, said town counsel Michael Courtney in an email. The Town denies any claim that it failed to act or protect the Plaintiff and will respond accordingly through the court process, Courtney wrote. The state is reviewing the filing ahead of releasing a response, said Michael Garrity, Director of Communications & Legislative Affairs for the State of New Hampshire Department of Justice, Office of the Attorney General. This article was originally published on NBCNews.com The suspected Chinese spy balloon was shot down over the Carolina coastline on Saturday. (Peter Zay/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images) The suspected Chinese spy balloon spotted over U.S. airspace in recent days was shot down on Saturday by an F-22 fighter jet near the Carolina coastline, officials said. President Biden said he ordered the Pentagon to shoot it down on Wednesday, but national security officials were concerned about the damage it could cause and waited until it was over water instead of land. They successfully took it down, and I want to compliment our aviators who did it," Biden told reporters on Saturday, as an operation was underway to recover debris from the balloon which had been floating at an altitude of around 60,000 feet in the Atlantic Ocean. A livestream of the balloon showed it deflated and falling toward the water below. A livestream of the balloon showed it deflated and falling toward the water below. (Fox) Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin said Biden "gave his authorization" to take out the balloon "as soon as the mission could be accomplished without undue risk to American lives under the balloon's path. "The balloon, which was being used by the [People's Republic of China] in an attempt to surveil strategic sites in the continental United States, was brought down above U.S. territorial waters," Austin said, adding that military commanders came up with options "to take down the balloon safely over our territorial waters, while closely monitoring its path and intelligence collection activities." Austin said the takedown was coordinated with the Canadian government. A After days of Americans following the surveillance balloon travel above the U.S., the Federal Aviation Administration on Saturday shut down three airports in both North and South Carolina to clear airspace to support the Department of Defense in a national security effort," suggesting that it would be taken out. Despite being described by the Pentagon as a suspected Chinese surveillance balloon, Chinas Foreign Ministry insisted it was being used for weather research and had blown off course. Story continues Said to be around the size of three buses, the balloon flew over Canada and Alaskas Aleutian Islands before being spotted in the continental United States. It then made its way eastward, being spotted across the country before it was shot down on the East Coast on Saturday afternoon. Spectators watch in Holden Beach, N.C., after the suspected spy balloon was shot down off the coast. (Allison Joyce/Reuters) The U.S. had been tracking the balloon since at least Tuesday, according to White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre, who said that was when Biden was first briefed on the situation. Pentagon press secretary Brig. Gen. Pat Ryder said officials had been observing the balloon via multiple methods, including piloted aircraft, for a number of days. On Friday, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken abruptly canceled a visit to Beijing to meet with his counterpart, Wang Yi, telling him in a phone call that sending the balloon to the U.S. was an irresponsible act and a clear violation of U.S. sovereignty and international law that undermined the purpose of the trip. While Chinese officials claimed the balloon was used for meteorological purposes, the Pentagon called it a "surveillance" object. The balloon flew over Montana, the location of one of the United States three nuclear missile silo fields, at Malmstrom Air Force Base. A senior defense official said the U.S. is confident that the balloon was being flown over sensitive sites to collect information. Defense officials confirmed on Friday that a second suspected Chinese spy balloon was spotted flying above Latin America. A civil rights group has filed a complaint on behalf of four students that argue Massachusetts allows vocational technical education schools to use admissions criteria that exclude students of color, English Learners, and students with disabilities. Data from the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education illustrates how students from these demographics are disproportionally excluded from the CTVE schools, according to Lawyers for Civil Rights of Boston. Students with the passion and talent for trade, who have successfully completed 8th grade, should have a fair shot at admission at their regional vocational high school. However, that is not the reality under DESEs current policies and regulations, said Mirian Albert, Staff Attorney for Lawyers for Civil Rights. Students who do not benefit from a traditional educational setting can be re-engaged through CVTEs practical and hands-on instruction. CVTE also allows studentsparticularly from traditionally marginalized communitiesto be competitive in the job market, all of which make the need for equitable admissions even more urgent. Any student who successfully completes middle school should have an equal shot at admission to a vocational education program, said Lewis Finfer of VEJC, the organizational complainant. Rank-ordering students based on their grades or attendance, and only admitting the top students, is antithetical to the whole purpose behind vocational education. The complaint asks the U.S. Department of Educations Office of Civil Rights to intervene and suspend any further federal funding until new admissions criteria is established This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available. Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW Feb. 3MORAGA, Calif. Gonzaga coach Mark Few and his most experienced players will watch a bunch of video on Saint Mary's, but at this point it probably wouldn't be required to know what the Zags are up against in Saturday's showdown. The Gaels have put together two decades of success with a game plan that rarely deviates under coach Randy Bennett, who earned his 500th career victory when Saint Mary's held off San Francisco 68-59 on Thursday. It's hardly flashy, but the 18th-ranked Gaels (20-4, 9-0 West Coast Conference) are efficient on offense and rely on one of the best defensive units in Bennett's 22 seasons. That's in contrast to No. 12 Gonzaga (19-4, 8-1), which prefers a swifter pace, averages a national-best 86.4 points and has shown modest improvement recently with its work-in-progress defense. "They're just incredibly solid at what they do," Few said. "It's nothing crazy, they're just incredibly disciplined and they're solid in their approach. They're very together and they're physical, like all of (Bennett's) teams. "They're into the ball, four guys in the gaps, shrink the floor really well, play our posts physical. Just the same thing they've been doing all those years. He just plugs in different guys." This will be the first of two regular-season meetings the next one is in Spokane on Feb. 25 to close the conference regular season that could decide the WCC title chase. It's been that way for roughly two decades. The results have favored the Zags in Few's 23 seasons with 19 solo titles and two shared with Bennett's Gaels. Saint Mary's won one outright championship in 2012. Few holds a 51-12 record against Saint Mary's. Bennett is 12-45 vs. Gonzaga, which accounts for nearly as many victories as the 15 by the seven other programs in the conference during Bennett's tenure. BYU, which joined the WCC in the 2011-12 season, has knocked off the Zags seven times. Story continues The roles are reversed at present with the Gaels holding a one-game lead and the Zags suffering their first loss to a WCC foe not named Saint Mary's or BYU since 2014 when they fell 68-67 to LMU. Gonzaga, though, is 8-1 in the series when both teams are ranked, all but one of those victories by double digits. No. 23 Saint Mary's defeated No. 1 GU 67-57 in last February in Moraga. The Gaels are favored by 1.5 points, according to BetOnline. "They are annoying," Zags' All-American Drew Timme said in a light-hearted manner. "No, they're a great team, super disciplined, they don't beat themselves, they use all the shot clock, know what type of shot they want and know how to get to it. "Defensively, they're super connected. They take forever to get to where they want to be, but it's exactly how they want it. That place is going to be packed. Great environment, it's a great rivalry. It's going to be a bruiser, for sure. If we don't come with our A game, they will." Saint Mary's allows just 57.2 points per game, fourth nationally and just behind defensive-minded Houston at two and Tennessee at three. The Gaels lost to then No. 1 Houston 53-48 in early December. Saint Mary's isn't a high-scoring outfit (71.3 points per game), but it frequently exploits defensive lapses. Gonzaga will have to be sound with on-ball defense, close-outs and covering their assignments. Another key will be defending for most of the 30-second shot clock against the patient Gaels. "They play like the old dudes at pickup," Gonzaga senior forward Anton Watson said. "They use the shot clock and pass it until they get a good shot. We definitely have to lock into the defense. "Every time we go down there, it's packed. They've got dudes yelling at us. Those are the type of games we love playing in. It's going to be a fun game." It'll certainly be a challenging one. "He has done an amazing, incredible job," Few said of Bennett. "It's a real credit to him for what he's been able to build." SEATTLE (AP) A man who was saved by a Coast Guard rescue swimmer at the mouth of the Columbia River as a massive wave rolled the yacht he was piloting Friday was wanted for a bizarre incident in which police said he left a dead fish at the Astoria, Oregon, home featured in the classic 1985 film, The Goonies. Officers had been looking for the man since Wednesday, when an acquaintance alerted them to a video he posted on social media of himself leaving the fish at the house and then dancing around the property, Astoria Police Chief Stacy Kelly said. Kelly identified the man as Jericho Labonte, 35, of Victoria, British Columbia. Labonte is also wanted in British Columbia on criminal harassment, mischief and failure to comply cases from last fall, Kelly said. Early Friday afternoon, the Coast Guard shared stunning video of a rescue made a few hours earlier in which a newly minted rescue swimmer lowered by cable from a helicopter swam to a 35-foot (11-meter) yacht that was struggling in heavy surf. As the swimmer approached the vessel, a large wave slammed into it, rolling the boat over and throwing a man, later identified as Labonte, into the water. The swimmer, Petty Officer 1st Class Branch Walton, of Greenville, South Carolina, reached Labonte and pulled him to safety. The helicopter crew flew him to Coast Guard Base Astoria, where medics treated him for mild hypothermia and transported him to a hospital. The yachts owner, who lives in nearby Warrenton, Oregon, reported the vessel stolen later Friday, the police chief said. The hospital had already released Labonte when police saw the Coast Guard photos and video and realized it was the same person who they said covered over security cameras at the Goonies house and left the dead fish on the porch. Police were still looking for Labonte Friday evening. Kelly didnt know what kind of fish it was, but said police believed it was caught locally because after the video started circulating another person reported having taken Labonte fishing. Story continues Its been a really odd 48 hours, Kelly said. The mouth of the Columbia, the largest North American river flowing into the Pacific Ocean, is known as the graveyard of the Pacific for its notoriously rough seas. The Coast Guard received the yachts mayday call around 10 a.m. Friday while conducting trainings nearby, Petty Officer Michael Clark said. The mayday contained no information about location or the specific problem, but the agency roughly triangulated the vessels location and nearby boat crews and a helicopter responded. They found the P/C Sandpiper yacht taking on water in 20-foot (6-meter) seas, meaning the height of a wave from the previous trough could be as much as 40 feet (12 meters), Clark said. Walton, who only recently graduated from the Coast Guards rescue swimmer program, was lowered from the helicopter by a cable. Labonte climbed onto the stern and prepared to enter the water just as a huge wave slammed the craft, throwing him into the surf. The wave struck so violently that the vessel rolled completely over and wound up floating upright. Walton said in an interview Friday that he planned to reach the man, get him in the water and hook him to a cable attached to the helicopter. Instead, the wave hit. I kind of got thrown around a little bit by the wave. When I came up I noticed the boat was pretty much in shambles, Walton said. He directed the helicopter to bring him to Labonte after spotting him in the surf a short distance away. The force of the wave had mostly knocked off his life jacket, Walton said. Earlie King Jr., 65, in the downtown Los Angeles alley where he lived for most of his adult life. (Steve Lopez/Los Angeles Times) Earlie King Jr. says he was in his late 20s when he took up residence in a skid row alley downtown. He didnt intend to grow old there, but thats what happened. When King finally moved indoors, about three weeks ago, he was 65. Leaving the Los Angeles alley, where he and friends scratched out an existence by unloading shipments to toy district merchants, felt like leaving home. That place just becomes a part of you, King told me after we were introduced by Sieglinde Von Deffner, the skid row coordinator for L.A. Countys Housing for Health program, who got him into a nearby single-room occupancy building. Its a temporary arrangement, and King is hoping hell be able to move into a new apartment building nearby when construction is complete. But demand is far greater than supply, and King was homeless so long, the transition to living indoors is disorienting. I had trouble sleeping last night, he told me. The mattress felt strange after spending half his life on a wooden pallet covered with cardboard. Kings gray stubble and uncertain future put him in good company on skid row. Based on information provided by government and nonprofit officials, roughly 2,000 older adults a disproportionate number of whom are Black live in tents, shanties, shelters and single-room occupancies. And in limbo. Wendell Blassingame sits at the entrance to San Julian Park in downtown Los Angeles. (Wally Skalij/Los Angeles Times) Skid row is the largest retirement center in the country, said Wendell Blassingame, 74, who distributes masks, psalms and information on housing and social services from his volunteer post in the little park at 5th and San Julian streets. There are of course larger retirement centers, but Blassingame, once homeless and now living in a single-room occupancy, meant it as a lament rather than literally. Growing old is challenging enough in a safe and pleasant environment. On skid row, the terrain is harsh, a drug market flourishes amid the squalor, and physical and mental distress are on parade. And women have the worst of it, Blassingame said, because of how theyre used and abused. Story continues Older adults constitute one of the fastest-growing segments of the homeless population in California, even though life expectancy is considerably lower for people whose health rapidly deteriorates on the streets. And skid row where roughly 17% of the homeless population is 55 and older, according to the latest count is a good place to see where were headed if the state doesnt prevail in its 10-year strategy to reverse high poverty rates, healthcare inequities and the housing affordability crisis thats already pummeling older residents. I asked the Rev. Andy Bales, who runs the Union Rescue Mission on San Pedro Street, if he knew how many older folks he was sheltering. Two hundred and eighteen, and more are on the way, he said. We are forecasting a tsunami of seniors and families with children. I wanted to meet some of the older adults and Bales opened the door to me. Margo Fitzsimmons, 66, is a three-year resident of the Union Rescue Mission. (Steve Lopez/Los Angeles Times) Its a godsend, said Margo Fitzsimmons, 66, an unemployed security guard who'd been living with a cousin in Inglewood. When he died, she became homeless. She said she has a relative who might be inclined to let her curl up in his living room, but his wife wont have it. Her car was too expensive to hold onto, Fitzsimmons said, and finding work without one is a big problem. So is age discrimination. At one interview, she said, she was told, We really dont work with people in your age group. She moved to the mission, where she shares a small room with another woman, three years ago. Im still trying to move on, said Fitzsimmons, who doesnt feel safe on the streets of skid row. I walk in faith that eventually something will happenIll pull out of this because Im healthy, I dont smoke, I dont do drugs. Michael Kelly, a 76-year-old college graduate and Canadian citizen, has been living at the mission for 10 years and earns a stipend for ushering patients to the mission's dental clinic. Kelly told me he began drinking heavily as a young man and got hooked on pain medication, too. His marriage ended, he was treated for depression and held various jobs over the years, but my drinking screwed it up. Several rehab attempts failed until he finally got clean at the mission. Michael Kelly, 76, has lived at the Union Rescue Mission for 10 years. (Steve Lopez/Los Angeles Times) I came here because I had nothing, said Kelly, who saves up for occasional trips to the theater or the opera. He told me he doesnt see how hell ever be able to afford to live on his own. But he hasnt stopped thinking about the possibility. Ive got a vision of a house in the countryside with a stream, so I could do a little fishing, he said. That would be my dream. Michelle Steverson, 70, arrived at the mission two weeks ago. She did general office work and lived with a stepsister, but was asked to leave after losing her job she blames it on age discrimination and could no longer help out with the rent. She has no idea whats next. I just try to be happy, and Im looking for any opportunity, Steverson said. The scary thing is how many more people are on the verge of falling into the same predicament. After I spoke to Steverson, I heard from a 102-year-old World War II veteran who lives in a one-bedroom apartment in Hollywood. He said the bulk of his income goes to in-home care, and he just got hit with a $524 gas bill. He put his caretaker on the phone and she said she's struggling as well, because pay is relatively low for home health aides. Everywhere you turn, gas bills are going up and people on fixed incomes could end up having to choose between the gas bill and housing, said professor Donna Benton, a USC gerontologist who helped craft Californias Master Plan for Aging. Benton is optimistic about strategies to address and prevent homelessness, but she doesnt downplay the enormity of the challenges. She says heavier lifting is needed to raise wages, fight age discrimination and extend careers. And some form of long-term insurance is needed so that isolation, suffering and poverty are not so much a part of growing old. Dr. Heidi Behforouz, Housing for Healths chief medical officer, doesnt hold back when discussing what she sees as a collective shrug over the struggles of a population thats treated as disposable. One mark of a civil society is that it takes deferential and better care of its people as they age, and we do that horrifically in this country, said Behforouz. We dont have enough of a safety net system to catch people as they age who are becoming socially and fiscally disenfranchised. She said shes trying to roll out three initiatives this year. The first would be to fortify the outreach teams that deliver medical treatment and social services to people in shelters and on the street; the second, to deliver long-term management to those who need it; and the third, to provide better palliative and hospice services to older adults nearing the end of their lives. Getting someone like Earlie King into a room, Behforouz said, does not mean the work is done, because the goal is to help people thrive, not just survive. King was a bit hesitant to take me to the alley where he used to live, but he thinks he needs to face his fears and convince himself that life is behind him. He showed me the spot against a red brick wall where he slept all those many nights, except when he got picked up on drunk and disorderly charges and did jail time. All of this began, he said, when his wife died of a heart condition in her early 30s. Thats what set me off, said King, who lost a job as a janitor, passed off his kids to relatives, and became one more anonymous face, disappearing into the cracks of skid row. A bad urinary tract infection landed him in the hospital late last year. When he recovered, he met social worker Von Deffner and started down this new path, which gives him hope, but scares him, too. King said he thinks about the lost years and the kids who grew up without him around. Hed like to get back in the picture, he told me, if thats even a possibility. But first he has to work on himself. Ive gotta do what Ive gotta do, he said. Steve.lopez@latimes.com This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. A new $20 million police headquarters is on the table in the city of Norcross. City leaders say theyre being as transparent as possible amid recent destructive protests in Atlanta over a new police training facility there. Its important to help people understand that our police departments are there to provide a service, not as overseers of their privacy, Norcross Mayor Craig Newton said during a community town hall on Thursday with the public about the need for a new building. Residents shared concerns about the location, cost, and at times, the need for a larger headquarters. Channel 2s Matt Johnson spoke to one man who said he had questions. TRENDING STORIES: I think they could use it on something else that could benefit the community a little bit better. I dont know what, but a bigger police department? I dont know if thats the best use of $20 million Gwinnett County resident Nick Pope said. We wanted to get the input from our public before we invested a lot of money and design drawings and making things happen that the public didnt want, Newton told Johnson. The proposed 33,000-square-foot facility would take the place of an old library on Buford Highway. City leaders say the police department has outgrown its current facility and needs several new things, including more training space. This new building will help us to enhance the community policing efforts that weve conducted for many, many years, Newton said. IN OTHER NEWS: Pharmacies in Cabo San Lucas are selling counterfeit prescription pills laced with illicit substances. (Wally Skalij / Los Angeles Times) For decades, Mexican cartels have made big money trafficking drugs. The trade was long dominated by hard drugs such as heroin and cocaine but in recent years, the criminal organizations have taken over the underground fentanyl market, eclipsing China as the main U.S. supplier. A Los Angeles Times investigation published Thursday exposed a new front in the cartels efforts to turn illicit fentanyl into cash. In three cities in northwestern Mexico, reporters found that some pharmacies are selling counterfeit pills laced with more powerful substances such as fentanyl and methamphetamine. Pills laced with fentanyl and methamphetamine are almost certainly coming from cartels, experts say. Above, a pharmacy in Cabo San Lucas. (Wally Skalij / Los Angeles Times) Experts said those pills are almost certainly coming from cartels aiming to pass them off as legitimate and difficult-to-get pharmaceuticals such as oxycodone and Adderall. But some readers wondered: Why would cartels go to the trouble of making fake pills, and lacing them with deadly drugs? According to drug market experts, it all comes down to demand and dollars. One of the reasons fentanyl has largely displaced heroin is because its easier to manufacture, you dont need a poppy field, you just need a lab, said Chelsea Shover, a UCLA researcher and the senior author of a recent study that paralleled the findings of the Times investigation. You can buy a pill press online and make very convincing fakes. Testing on an Aderall pill came back positive in Cabo San Lucas. (Wally Skalij / Los Angeles Times) That explains why fake pills would make more business sense than heroin, but it still leaves the question as to why selling fake pills would be a more attractive business move than real pills. Historically, legitimate oxycodone has been hard to come by in Mexico, especially outside of hospitals. "For a long time it was difficult to get doctors to prescribe pain medications," said Jaime Arredondo, the Canada research chair on substance use at the University of Victoria. "In 2015, they changed the law to make it a little easier in theory, but it seems like doctors are still relatively reluctant to prescribe." But even if prescribed oxycodone is difficult to come by, as Shover pointed out, "You don't need a prescription to make a fentanyl fake." Story continues Aside from that, fentanyl is a relatively cheap and easy drug to synthesize, and a very small amount can go a long way. "Selling fentanyl in the form of pills is really marketing to a group of the population that may not be willing to try 'hard drugs,'" said a UCLA assistant professor. (Wally Skalij / Los Angeles Times) "You can make a product of comparable strength using a lot less fentanyl than oxycodone," Shover said. "You can make more pills with less product." And as Dr. David Goodman-Meza, a UCLA assistant professor who is also one of the studys co-authors, said, its largely U.S. buyers who are driving the demand for these faux pharmaceuticals not because they want the fakes, but because they're looking for the real thing. This is especially true as we clamped down on access to pharmaceutical opioids in the U.S. in an attempt to solve our drug use problem, he said. Selling fentanyl in the form of pills is really marketing to a group of the population that may not be willing to try hard drugs. Even someone who isn't interested in heroin or cocaine might be willing to take a seemingly safe pharmaceutical pill. At the pharmacies Times reporters visited last month, pills were generally priced between $15 and $35 each. Those figures are out of reach for many local drug users. And, as Arredondo explained, the market for oxycodone among Mexicans is not sizable in part because physicians there have been so hesitant to prescribe powerful painkillers. The cartels seem to be catering to tourists. "If you can get people who have more money addicted to fentanyl ... they're going to come back for more," said one professor. (Wally Skalij / Los Angeles Times) It seems that its just filling a void for American tourists, he said. And catering to tourists is one way for cartels to expand their market. If you can get people who have more money addicted to fentanyl, even if they dont know its fentanyl, theyre going to come back for more, said Steffanie Strathdee, a distinguished professor of medicine at UC San Diego and another co-author of the UCLA-led study. Tourists have more resources, and the cartels are aware of that. But exactly how much money counterfeit pills generate for cartels is more difficult to say, according to Romain Le Cour Grandmaison, senior expert with the Global Initiative Against Transnational Organized Crime. There's very little reliable data on the economics of manufacturing, trafficking and selling fentanyl and fentanyl-laced tablets. (Wally Skalij / Los Angeles Times) One of the questions Id like to be able to answer is how profitable is all that? How much does it really cost to produce it from A to Z? Because we hear so many different figures, the range of uncertainty in the figures is insane, he said. Unlike the cocaine trade, for which researchers have a strong sense of the economic model from the growing fields of South America to the streets of New York City, theres very little reliable data on the economics of manufacturing, trafficking and selling fentanyl and fentanyl-laced tablets. We dont know, like, how much does it cost to produce one pill? Le Cour Grandmaison said. With fentanyl, we dont have the economic model at all. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. Members of the Lubbock Chamber of Commerce gathered with educators from the Betty M. Condra School for Education Innovation for a ribbon cutting to help unveil the school's renovations in the former Kaplan College building Friday afternoon at 10th Street and Avenue O. The Betty M. Condra School for Education Innovation this week unveiled its new home in downtown Lubbock and announced a partnership with Texas Tech Health Sciences Center researchers aimed at improving education for students with unique learning needs. The 4-year-old public charter school, which caters to children with special learning differences and enrolls about 225 students, recently moved from its previous location at the Legacy Event Center on 13th Street several blocks away to the former Kaplan College building at 10th Street and Avenue O. The move required extensive renovations to the facility, and was celebrated during Friday's ceremony put on by the Lubbock Chamber of Commerce. Condra School breaks ground on downtown Lubbock building This move is a huge step for the Condra School and comes thanks to support from a number of business and leaders in the community, said Merinda Condra, founder and superintendent of the school, who described the Condra school as unique to the state in its mission to providing innovative teaching methods to cater to students with different needs. "Everything we could do to make this school more successful for our children is here," she said, later adding: "We're so thankful our families have trusted us with their most previous resources - their children." A classroom in the newly renovated Condra school during an open house Friday evening at 10th Street and Avenue O. Lisa Sheek, director of community outreach and family liaison at the school, thanked Condra board members, families and staff for their continued support. She said Condra is also appreciate for support its received from Lee Lewis Construction, AARIS, Mission Irrigation, the city of Lubbock, and Texas Tech partners, Tori Gustafson and Tobias Knoll. The Condra School broke ground on the renovations last summer. At the time, Sheek told the Avalanche-Journal the new building provides a number of benefits to Condra, and will also help in ongoing downtown development efforts. We like the area, its been convenient for our children and is in close proximity to where we are, Sheek said at the time. Were bringing lots of families in to kind of boost the economy here. The city has given a lot of grant money for people to renovate and try to make things nicer in downtown. Story continues Part of the interior upgrades include security measures, with bullet-resistant glass and a receptionist who will buzz people in. It will be super safe for our children, Sheek said in the previous story. Well be putting a fence around, (adding) all the safety measures we can do to keep our children safe. This is the third move for the school, which initially began on Broadway west of Avenue Q, then moved to 14th Street. Since then, the school has also tripled in size, requiring more space. The school hopes to eventually have 300 children in the 24,500 sq. ft. building. The school officially moved to the new location last Monday, Jan. 30. The school will not utilize the former hospital attached to the building. There is no access between the two sides. Renovations are still ongoing at the facility. The next phases will involve building a playground and a gymacafetorium, which is a combination gym, cafeteria and auditorium. During Friday's ceremony, Merinda Condra announced a developing partnership with researchers from the Texas Tech Health Sciences Center that she said she's hopeful will contribute to improved education for students at Condra and beyond. The TTUHSC confirmed its role in the effort, sharing a statement with the Avalanche-Journal offering more details. "The TTUHSC Department of Speech, Language and Hearing Sciences will be working with the Condra charter school for research into factors that affect reading, including language factors that often go unnoticed, and the role of auditory processing," reads a statement from TTUHSC. Part of the charter for the school is to support research that will help the children at their school, according to TTUHSC. "One of the main focal points for this school has been serving children with reading disorders," the statement continues. "One area they have noted is that some children respond to traditional reading intervention, while others do not. The current study by Dr. Tobias Kroll and Dr. Tori Gustafson, will examine relationships of different language, reading, and auditory processing skills to help determine unique factors seen in these children that contribute to success, or lack thereof, in improving reading. The long-term goal of this collaboration is to develop intervention, using these factors, to help children who are not responding well to traditional therapy." Condra said the school, which is free for students to attend, is still enrolling new students. More information about the school and enrollment is available through its website, https://condraschool.com/en-US or by calling them at (806) 993-4040. " This article originally appeared on Lubbock Avalanche-Journal: Condra School unveils downtown Lubbock location, partnership TTUHSC Throughout her 30 years as a teacher, Patricia Nicolari said she faced repeated harassment from students due to her sexuality. Some left notes on her desk asking if she is a lesbian. Others called her a dyke under their breaths. And one day, students carved Lez into her car. At the time, I remember thinking, Im going through so much anxiety as a teacher. I cant imagine what our students go through questioning themselves and how unsafe it is for them to come out, Nicolari said. Years later, Nicolari is done imagining. Instead, shes taking action. In September, she plans to open a private school in Connecticut thats designed to be an oasis for LGBTQ students. PROUD Academy, which stands for Proudly Respecting Our Unique Differences Academy, will prioritize what Nicolari saw lacking in the U.S. education system: a safe, affirming and bully-free academic environment for LGBTQ students. The private schools curriculum aims to include educational basics like math and science classes, rigorous courses at the Advanced Placement and honors levels, and lessons that touch upon LGBTQ history and literature. In addition to fostering a queer-friendly environment, Nicolari said she wants to hire mental health counselors who can cater to the specific challenges of these youths. When Nicolari first set out to launch PROUD Academy, she planned to only enroll students in grades seven through 12. But since word about the school has spread, Nicolari said, theres been a strong demand from parents with younger children as well, and she now plans to accommodate these families. The interest in PROUD Academy has even crossed state borders. At least two families from out of state including one from Florida, where LGBTQ issues have become a political lightning rod plan to relocate to the solidly Democratic Connecticut and send their kids to the school this fall. Some parents are just saying, I just want my child to be happy again, Nicolari said. And if we can offer that to a family? Thatd be priceless. Story continues While the school doesnt have a set location yet, Nicolari said it will be in or near the city of New Haven, where Yale University is, and she hopes to start the school from grade three. Research has long shown that LGBTQ youths suffer from disproportionate rates of bullying and mental health issues. Just over 83% of LGBTQ students said they experienced in-person harassment or assault at school, according to a 2021 survey by GLSEN, an advocacy group that aims to end LGBTQ discrimination in education. And nearly 1 in 3 respondents said they missed at least one day of school in preceding month as a result of feeling unsafe. A survey released last year by LGBTQ youth suicide prevention group The Trevor Project found that nearly half of queer youths in the United States had seriously considered suicide within the 12 months prior to being surveyed. Respondents who were accepted for their LGBTQ identities at home or at school were less likely to have attempted suicide in the prior year, the survey also showed. Melissa Combs transgender son currently attends a middle school in Farmington, Connecticut. Combs, who is working as a fundraiser for PROUD Academy, said her son is regularly bullied for his gender identity and was physically assaulted last year during Pride Month in June. She said sending her son to a school like PROUD Academy will be life-changing. Melissa Combs' transgender son, Loki, 13-years-old. (Courtesy Melissa Combs) This means that I wont knowingly send my child into a hostile environment every day, Combs said. It means that my kid will get to be who he is 100% of the time. PROUD Academy will join a handful of other LGBTQ-centered schools including Alabamas Magic City Acceptance Academy and Ohios Albert Einstein Academy that have opened within the last handful of years, as the nations culture wars over LGBTQ issues have intensified. Within the last year alone, school officials in states across the country have banned books about gay and trans experiences, removed LGBTQ-affirming posters and flags, and disbanded Gay-Straight Alliance clubs. Simultaneously, conservative lawmakers have introduced hundreds of anti-LGBTQ bills, with many seeking to limit the rights and representation of queer students in U.S. schools. Of the more than 200 anti-LGBTQ bills introduced so far this year, about half restrict the rights of trans students in schools, according to the American Civil Liberties Union. Among the large cohort of bills is legislation that would force teachers to disclose trans students gender identities to their parents, restrict bathroom access for trans and nonbinary kids, and ban trans children from playing on sports teams that correspond with their gender identities. Nicolari reasoned that the recent legislation explains why the majority of the roughly 30 parents who have inquired about enrollment at PROUD Academy have trans or nonbinary children. The political climate absolutely accelerated the need for a PROUD Academy and a need for PROUD Academies across the United States, Nicolari said. Our kids matter. Their lives matter. Their education matters. Their mental health matters. And we cant have our students and families be bullied into being less than theyre capable of being. This article was originally published on NBCNews.com Connie Britton reflects on raising her son later in life. (Photo: Emma McIntyre/WireImage) Connie Britton, 55, says life is getting better with age. The White Lotus actress, who now stars in the Apple TV+ drama series Dear Edward, spoke to The New York Times about finding fulfillment in her career and personal life while in her 50s. She wanted that empowerment reflected in her Dear Edward character Dee Dee's story. I refuse to just fall into the trope of, Shes over 40 so shes over the hill, and the young one has everything, Britton said. Im like, no, no, no, no, no. Lets talk about the incredible experience and wisdom that somebody whos been in the business for a really long time has and juxtapose that with the hubris of the young person who has no experience and stars in their eyes. And lets really tell those stories in a very fully fleshed out, realized way. During the interview, Britton reflected on raising her 12-year-old son, Yoby, who she adopted in 2011 from Ethiopia, and meeting her romantic partner later in life. I had my son later in life, so Im chasing around after a 12-year-old, Britton told The New York Times. I have met my partner in life later in life, so I have this romance that feels equivalent to being a 25-year-old. I have this amazing group of girlfriends, all of whom are vibrant and sexy and funny and intelligent and setting the world on fire in their own ways. So I still feel really fortunate. In a 2022 episode of the Armchair Expert With Dax Shepard podcast, the American Horror Story star spoke about why she chose to adopt her son, while offering insights to other single women who are considering adoption. "Frankly, being a single mom is not easy," she said. "It was my choice but it wouldnt necessarily have been my dream." As Britton explained, the actress' adoption journey began in the late-2000s when she felt a calling to help children in Ethiopia after seeing pictures of orphans suffering in that region. I remember looking at [the photos] and thinking, This is something that Id love to be able to do,'" she said. Story continues At the time, she initially hoped to make a documentary about orphans in Ethiopia but the project went unfinished. Quite honestly, my decision to adopt was less about Im going to save an orphan, because that felt like a drop in the bucket, she explained. Beyond that I just had a really strong affinity to the people and to the culture, and it just felt like something I was drawn to do. Wellness, parenting, body image and more: Get to know the who behind the hoo with Yahoo Lifes newsletter. Sign up here. A New Jersey construction company and its principal have pleaded guilty in federal court to willfully violating Occupational Safety and Health Administration rules, causing the death of a construction worker at a Poughkeepsie site in 2017. Damian Williams, the U.S. attorney for the Southern District of New York, said Finbar O'Neill, 57, of Paramus, N.J., and his company, OneKey LLC, pleaded guilty before U.S. Magistrate Judge Paul E. Davison. Sentencing is scheduled for May 12. According to court filings, Maximiliano Saban was killed in the incident. Saban was an employee of New Generations Masonry, a Connecticut-based subcontractor. According to Williams, O'Neill and OneKey implemented a soil compaction plan at a construction site at 1 Dutchess Avenue in Poughkeepsie in 2017. The plan involved piling large quantities of dirt, called surcharges, on top of the sites of three future buildings. An engineering firm designed a plan for the use of the surcharges. But Williams said O'Neill and OneKey did not follow the plan. Instead, they built a wall to hold back one of the surcharges so workers could get started on the buildings next to it. They did not consult with any qualified person to see if the wall could withstand the weight to be placed on it by the surcharges. Williams said while people were working next to the wall, OneKey kept using construction machinery to add dirt to the surcharges pressing up against the wall. The people working near the wall were not warned about the danger created. O'Neill and OneKey heard from people working at the site that the wall was not safe, but they did not fix it, Williams said Suspect charged: Poughkeepsie man arraigned on murder, weapon possession charges, in August shooting death Waterfront development: Poughkeepsie actively seeking concepts for DeLaval site Peekskill arrests: Three charged in connection with Sunday homicide On Aug. 3, 2017, workers complained that construction machines were driving on top of the surcharge, adding dirt to it. Later that day, the wall collapsed. As it fell, one worker ran away from the wall, but he could not get away in time and was killed. Another worker was injured. Story continues The One Dutchess development is luxury waterfront apartment development just north of the Walkway Over the Hudson in Poughkeepsie, consisting of multiple buildings and amenities. O'Neill and OneKey each pleaded guilty to one count of willful violation of OSHA regulations resulting in death. O'Neill faces a maximum sentence of six months in prison and a maximum fine of $250,000. OneKey faces a maximum fine of $500,000. Scott Resnik, an attorney representing O'Neill and OneKey, offered the following statement on their behalf: "Yesterday, Mr. O'Neill and OneKey LLC resolved their cases with pleas to misdemeanors. These actions are a further demonstration of the acceptance of responsibility that both Mr. O'Neill and OneKey have consistently taken for the construction accident that occurred over five years ago. By taking this final step, both Mr. O'Neill and OneKey hope that this misdemeanor resolution can help bring closure to this incident, for not only themselves, but also for the family of the construction worker who passed away as a result of the accident in 2017." Mike Randall covers breaking news for the Times Herald-Record, the Poughkeepsie Journal and the Journal News-lohud. Reach him at mrandall@th-record.com or on Twitter @mikerandall845. This article originally appeared on Poughkeepsie Journal: Contractor admits violating OSHA rules in construction worker's death President Joe Biden speaks to union workers at Laborfest on September 05, 2022 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Biden is scheduled to speak at an event in Pennsylvania after leaving Wisconsin. Scott Olson/Getty Images President Joe Biden reelection bid looks increasingly likely, and more a question of when. Count on spring if he follows his recent predecessors' examples. Clinton, Bush, Obama and Trump launched re-election bids between April and June during the year before the election. Joe Biden's re-election announcement looks increasingly likely, and more a question of when. He says he intends to run, First Lady Jill Biden is reportedly supportive, and Biden's outgoing chief of staff recently said he's eager to stand by Biden "when" he launches his campaign. "As I did in 1988, in 2008 and 2020, I look forward to being on your side when you run for president in 2024," Ron Klain said at the White House on Wednesday. Biden has said he expects to make his official decision early this year, and some on Biden's team told CNN they expect an announcement potentially by the end of February. But if he follows his recent predecessors' examples, count on spring. Former presidents from Bill Clinton to Donald Trump all announced their re-election campaigns between April and June during the year preceding the election. That time period "makes sense for an incumbent president," said political analyst Larry Sabato. "The second half of his first term is well underway," said Sabato, director of the University of Virginia's Center for Politics. "The State of the Union address has been delivered. The new Congress is at workor not working depending on what party controls it. Deadlines for primary filing don't start until the final weeks of the year but lots of things need doing in advancestaff hiring, millions to be raised. "There's no big downside to being an official candidate," he said. Here's a look at Biden's predecessors' announcements: Donald Trump Trump never left campaign mode after his golden escalator ride in 2015. On the day he was inaugurated in 2017, he qualified to run for president in 2020 when he crossed the $5,000 fundraising threshold, requiring him to file paperwork with the Federal Election Commission. Story continues Trump told the FEC his paperwork did not constitute a formal announcement, even though he acted like a candidate, holding "Make America Great Again" political rallies, maintaining a staff and campaign headquarters, raising and spending money. But it wasn't until June 18, 2019 that Trump officially kicked off his 2020 campaign at a rally in Orlando, Florida, telling the crowd that Democrats "want to destroy you." Barack Obama President Obama at a campaign fundraiser at the Sony Picture Studios on April 21, 2011. Ted Soqui/Corbis via Getty Images Obama sent an email and a promotional video to his supporters on April 4, 2011, telling them he filed paperwork to launch his 2012 reelection campaign. The video was entitled, "It begins with us," and featured supporters talking about the forthcoming election. The Guardian, at the time, made note of Obama's new "digital age" approach, using Twitter and Facebook to promote his announcement. "Of course, Obama's kick-off would not have been complete without the launch of a Twitter hashtag in this case #Obama2012 a political campaign tactic that dates back as far as the day before yesterday," the 2011 story says. George W. Bush From the front of his campaign bus, President George W. Bush waves to supporters on May 4, 2004 as he departs after speaking in Lebanon, Ohio. Bush was on an early two-day midwest campaign swing in Ohio and Michigan. Photo by Brooks Kraft LLC/Corbis via Getty Images) Bush filed paperwork to run for reelection on May 16, 2003. "The American people will decide whether or not I deserve a second term," the president told reporters, according to the Associated Press. A year later, he hit the road on a "Yes, American Can," bus tour of Michigan and Ohio, with other bus tours to follow. Bill Clinton Betty Miller (R) listens in as then-President Bill Clinton (L) talks with Howard and Maxine Anderson on June 1, 1995 as they eat breakfast at the Kit Kat Cafe in Billings, Montana. LUKE FRAZZA/AFP via Getty Image Clinton filed papers to run for re-election on April 14, 1995 that were quickly followed by a letter to "1 million of his closest friends," White House Press Secretary Mike McCurry said at the time. The letter, McCurry said, explained Clinton's reason for running and included a return envelope so they could send back a check, according to the Los Angeles Times. "My message to you is that I need your partnership once again to succeed in the most challenging campaign I will ever face," Clinton wrote. Read the original article on Business Insider A figure in the criminal case regarding the The Prosecutors Office said that the official was detained this week as part of a large-scale sweep to expose a criminal organization whose members set up a network of brothels in Kyiv and engaged women in prostitution. Read also: $142-million grain export scheme exposed by SBU and BEB The perpetrator was charged with three articles of the Criminal Law of Ukraine: Art. 255 (creation, management of a criminal community or criminal organization); Art. 302 (creating or maintaining debauchery sites); Art. 303 (pimping or engaging a person in prostitution). According to news agency Ukrinform, more than 30 searches were conducted, including at the National Police office premises. Fifteen suspected ring members were detained. Bail was set for three of the persons arrested at UAH 80,000 ($2,100) each. On Feb. 1, Ukraines SBU Security Service reported the detention of 13 members of a group that organized and covered up prostitution. In particular, the deputy head of the Migration Police Department was detained. Read also: SBU searches oligarch Kolomoisky's residence over misappropriation of $1 billion According to the Office of the Prosecutor General, he involved two Ukrainians who created a network of salons providing sex services in Kyiv. Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine The Vikings sailed across the sea and landed on the shores of the U.K., prepared to invade. The warriors, however, didnt come alone, according to researchers. During their invasion, part of the Viking army hunkered down for the winter of 873 A.D. near Heath Wood. What remains at the site is the only known Viking cremation cemetery in the U.K., according to a Wednesday, Feb. 1, news release from Durham University. Archaeologists studying these burial mounds uncovered a number of bone fragments, according to a study published in the Plos One Journal on Feb. 1. After closer analysis, researchers found the cremated bones came from two adults, a child, a horse, a dog and possibly a pig. Who were these people? And where did these remains come from? The cremated bone fragments found at the cemetery. Photo from Julian Richards and University of York To answer these questions, researchers analyzed a specific chemical called strontium that is found in human bones. Strontium is found in soil, rocks and water, but the ratio varies in different regions of the world. By matching the strontium ratios found in human bones with ratios found in a regions plants, researchers can trace where people came from. Through this analysis, researchers concluded the child and one of the adults could have been from the U.K. or portions of mainland Europe, according to a news release from EurekAlert. The bones of the other adult and all three animals, however, indicated they almost certainly came from the Baltic Shield area of Scandinavia and died soon after arriving in the U.K., EurekAlert reported. The Baltic Shield region is located in modern-day Norway and northern Sweden. This is the first solid scientific evidence that Vikings crossed the North Sea to Britain with dogs and horses, according to a news release from University of York. It shows how much Viking leaders valued their personal horses and hounds that they brought with them from Scandinavia, and that the animals were sacrificed to be buried with their owners, Julian Richards, co-director of excavations at the Heath Wood cemetery site, said in the release. Story continues Archaeologists concluded the Vikings crossed the North Sea with horses, dogs and possibly other animals as early as the ninth century AD, per the study. Unlike the complete remains of the horse and dog, researchers found only partial pig fragments, indicating the remains could have been a token of some sort rather than a living animal, according to the University of York release. The Viking cemetery in Heath Wood has 59 burial mounds, so far only 20 mounds have been investigated, the study said. The Heath Wood cemetery site is in Derbyshire and about 120 miles northwest of London. Searchers with metal detectors stumble on 2,500-year-old sacrificial site in Poland 1.2 million-year-old stone-tool workshop uncovered in Ethiopia is oldest ever found Iron sword almost 9 feet long unearthed at 1,700-year-old burial mound in Japan Jack Trexler and his mother Suzie Trexler are pictured. Suzie saved Jack's life after he was attacked by a mountain lion on their property in Northern California. A 5-year-old boy was out on a walk with his mother and grandparents near the Northern California coast when a mountain lion pounced. The big cat attacked Jack Trexler, pinning him to the ground. The boy had gotten a bit ahead of his family when the attack happened but his mother was close enough to pounce herself, according to an account sent to USA TODAY by the boy's father, Jay Trexler. Suzie Trexler charged the animal, causing it to let go of her son and skitter away, Jay Trexler said in a statement on Thursday. The attack happened two days earlier near a farm where the family lives in Half Moon Bay, about 30 miles south of San Francisco. Suzie Trexler picked Jack up and rushed him to the hospital. "It happened so fast," Jay Trexler said, calling his wife "the bravest woman I know." "She did what she needed to do and saved my son," he said. A 'resilient kid' Jack was treated for cuts and scratches on his face and all over his body and for a fracture near his eye that may need surgery, Jay Trexler said. He was released from the hospital the same day of the attack and is recovering at home. "He is going to be OK once his injuries heal," Trexler wrote. "Hes a very resilient kid, and I am hoping he will bounce back quickly. When he recounted the story to me, he said, 'Dad, a mountain lion tackled me!'" Since the attack, he said his son has had great nights of rest and even moments of playfulness amid the pain management. "We are going to help our son recover and then go live our life to the fullest," he said. Jack Trexler is pictured enjoying some football. The 5-year-old survived a mountain lion attack when his mother charged the big cat. Search ended for the mountain lion The California Department of Fish and Wildlife called the attack by a juvenile mountain lion vicious and conducted a limited search of the area, though the animal wasn't found. Often in such cases, animals are put down because of the threat to people they may pose. But the department hasn't been able to continue the search because the attack occurred on private property and the owners have denied access, department spokesman Patrick Foy said Friday. Story continues "This lack of access, combined with worsening weather and the nomadic nature of mountain lions has diminished the chances for a successful capture of the offending mountain lion," he said in a statement. "(The department) is concluding their investigation and any attempt to capture the offending lion." Mountain lions very rarely attack people. Since 1986, there have been just 21 attacks on people in California; three of them were fatal, according to the department. A known danger Trexler said that he and his family have been living and working on the farm where the attack occurred for more than 12 years and have done what they can to mitigate danger posed by area wildlife. "We know the risks of working and hiking in the hills where we live with mountain lions in the area. We carry bear spray to be safe," he said. "Those precautions didnt matter in this case." He has no doubts that Jack and the family will be back out hiking soon because "that is what we do." Jack Trexler is pictured enjoying nature while out on a walk. The 5-year-old survived a mountain lion attack when his mother charged the big cat. "We are an outdoor-loving family, and this experience will not take that away from us," he said. "I think its important to not be afraid of mountain lions but to take care and be alert when you are in their habitat ... We are grateful the cat wasnt bigger and that it didnt bite our son because it would have been a different story." Amie Wagner, Trexler's sister and Jack's aunt, said her nephew "is such an amazing little guy and Suzie is a hero." This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: California mom pounces to save 5-year-old son from mountain lion Dan Evans acknowledges Davis Cup defeat in Colombia is hardest loss to take (Jane Barlow/PA) (PA Wire) Dan Evans has described his shock Davis Cup defeat as the hardest loss to take as Great Britain looked to achieve victory on the final day of their qualifier in Colombia. Evans clearly struggled with the conditions in the raucous home arena in his 6-2 2-6 6-4 upset by 253rd-ranked Nicolas Mejia on Friday, before Cameron Norrie pulled Britain level with a straight-sets defeat of Nicolas Barrientos. I did my best it was obviously very difficult conditions, Evans said. I played as good as I got today and its disappointing to lose, especially for your country with everybody supporting you its the hardest loss to take. But theres a job for the weekend its not just for today, thats why its the three points and not just one and thats why its important now we focus on Cam and hopefully get a win. Norrie responded by easily knocking over world number 510 Barrientos 6-2 7-5, appearing to enjoy the conditions at the Pueblo Viejo Country Club in Cota. The 11th-ranked player said he thought the atmosphere was great, especially as I havent had the experience of an away tie in a while, so it was great to have the atmosphere and I thought they were very respectful and very loud which was great. Story continues Norrie added: Its always difficult playing away and with the altitude and this surface but I really enjoyed the atmosphere and I was able to put enough balls in the court to get over the line and tomorrows a big day so looking forward to that. I think I can improve on a lot of things today going in to tomorrow. Lets rest up and get ready for tomorrow, its gonna be a really big day, were gonna take it to them and definitely make some improvements for tomorrow. Captain Leon Smith said he thought his players did a really good job considering the conditions are difficult, but reserved special praise for Norrie. This is why we love Cam to bits, hes number 11 in the world for a reason, Smith said. Hes got really good experience, hes got a great game, he competes well, his mentality is really, really good and were really proud of what he did out there today. Evans is scheduled to partner Neal Skupski against former world number one doubles pair Juan-Sebastian Cabal and Robert Farah in the first of the matches on the second and final day on Saturday. Norrie will then take on Mejia in the second match, with Evans clash against Barrientos rounding out the teams South American trip. One of the Dallas Zoo's emperor tamarin monkeys. Courtesy Dallas Zoo A suspect was arrested Thursday and charged with stealing tamarins from the Dallas Zoo. Police said the suspect was also connected to incidents involving a clouded leopard and langurs. The arrest appears to provide some answers about the mysteries that have rattled the zoo since last month. After an unprecedented month at the Dallas Zoo in which animals went missing and habitats were cut open, police have arrested a suspect they say is responsible for several of the incidents. The mysterious incidents all started on January 13, when a clouded leopard named Nova was discovered missing from her habitat and was gone for several hours before being found nearby on zoo grounds and unharmed. An initial police investigation determined a "suspicious" tear had been made in her enclosure. A similar "intentional" cut was also discovered in a habitat for langur monkeys, but the langurs were all accounted for. The zoo's missing clouded leopard, Nova, is pictured. Dallas Zoo About a week later, an endangered vulture named Pin was found dead under what the zoo described as "unusual" circumstances. And on Monday, two emperor tamarin monkeys were discovered missing. Police said the tamarin enclosure also had an "intentional cut" and that the monkeys were believed to have been "intentionally taken." A day later, a tip from the public led police to an empty home in Lancaster, just south of Dallas, where the tamarins were found inside a closet and then returned to the zoo. Police on Friday identified a suspect who they connected to three of the four incidents: the tamarins, the clouded leopard, and the langur enclosure. Davion Irvin was arrested on Thursday after he was spotted near the animal exhibits at The Dallas World Aquarium, the Dallas Police Department said during a press conference on Friday. "We do believe he was looking to commit another crime," DPD spokesperson Kristin Lowman said. "That's why it was very important that we took him into custody and he is in custody at this time." The 24-year-old had stopped an employee at the aquarium to ask a question about one of the animals, Waylon Tate, a spokesperson for The Dallas World Aquarium, said in a statement to Insider. Story continues Tate said the employee recognized Irvin from a photograph police had released on Monday that they said was of a person they wanted to speak to in connection with the missing monkeys. They did not identify the person as a suspect at the time. Officials said Friday the photo helped lead to the tip received from the aquarium. Irvin has been charged with six counts of animal cruelty related to two missing tamarin monkeys, police said Friday. He has also been charged with two counts of burglary to a building in connection with the incidents involving the clouded leopard and the langur monkey enclosure. Police are still investigating if the incident with the vulture is connected. They have not yet identified a potential motive. Gregg Hudson, the president and CEO of the Dallas Zoo, said during the press conference the series of incidents at the zoo was "unprecedented," adding that the zoo was thankful for the work of DPD and assistance from the public who sent in tips. He also said the security, including cameras and patrols, that the zoo added after the incident with the leopard contributed to identifying the suspect. "It feels like an understatement but the last month has been an emotional roller coaster for the team here at Dallas Zoo," Harrison Edell, the zoo's executive vice president for animal care and conservation, said. "Our zoologists spend day in and day out with these animals," he said, adding: "The relationships that our team builds with those animals are profound." Have a news tip? Contact this reporter at kvlamis@insider.com. Read the original article on Insider Leonard Peltier was arrested in Canada on Feb. 6, 1976. (Photo/File) On February 6, 1976, Leonard Peltier was arrested in Hinton, Alberta, Canada. Monday, February 6th will mark the 47th anniversary of his arrest. Following a controversial trial, Peltier was convicted of aiding and abetting murder of two FBi agents and has been imprisoned ever since. Many people and human rights organizations, including Amnesty International, the Southern Christian Leadership Conference, National Congress of American Indians, the Robert F. Kennedy Memorial Center for Human Rights, Archbishop Desmond Tutu and others believe Peltier is a political prisoner who should be immediately released. To mark the anniversary, people worldwide will commemorate Monday as a Day of Solidarity for Leonard Peltier, who is currently incarcerated in a federal penitentiary in Coleman, Florida. Never miss Indian Countrys biggest stories and breaking news. Click here to sign up to get our reporting sent straight to your inbox every weekday morning. As he enters his 48th year of incarceration, hundreds of his supporters will host Rise Up for Peltier events in numerous cities around the world, including Paris, Rome, Berlin, Switzerland. In the United States, events will be held in Minneapolis, Minnesota; Rapid City, South Dakota; Tampa, Florida; Santa Fe, New Mexico, Albuquerque, New Mexico, Tulsa, Oklahoma; San Francisco, California; and Washington, D.C. Related: A Message to President Biden: No Prisoner Swap Needed to FREE Leonard Peltier Peltier is 78 years old in deteriorating health with multiple serious ailments. Supporters have been asking President Joe Biden to grant clemency so that he can spend his final years with his loved ones and tribal community. Those interested in sending President Biden a letter should address the letter as follows: President Joseph Biden The White House 1600 Pennsylvania Ave NW Washington, DC 20500 USA May be an image of one or more people and text that says 'International Day of Solidarity RISE UP FOR E PELTIER R A February 6th 2023 S RISE UP TOGETHER TO DEMAND JUSTICE FOR INDIGENOUS POLITICAL PRISONER EONARD PELTIER T EVENTS PLANNED WORLDWIDE 0 Rapid.SD Rapid Sacramento, CA Frankfurt. Germany Minneapolis. MN Columbia, MO Rome, Italy 2000 Tampa, Fargo. Tulsa, OK Paris, France Washington D.C. Geneva. Switzerland Berlin, Germany Albuquerque. Stade, Germany San Francisco, CA Stuttgart, Germany N San Jose. Leipzig. Germany G Milan, Italy Dusseldorf, Germany' About the Author: "Native News Online is one of the most-read publications covering Indian Country and the news that matters to American Indians, Alaska Natives and other Indigenous people. Reach out to us at editor@nativenewsonline.net. " Contact: news@nativenewsonline.net TOMS RIVER An emotional Justin Jacobs asked Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley Billhimer and dozens of local police leaders a question. Were recent events in Memphis, where five police officers have been fired and charged with murder in the death of Tyre Nichols, a template for how to handle police violence against civilians? Jacobs asked his question Friday at a town hall held to discuss policing in the wake of Nichols' death. The 29-year-old died three days after he was severely beaten by officers after after a traffic stop. The event at Ocean County College, put together by the Prosecutors Office, drew New Jersey Attorney General Matt Platkin as well as police chiefs from throughout the county. Toms River resident Jacobs, who is Black, noted how quickly the five Memphis officers, who were Black, were dismissed and charged, compared to the slower reaction to the white officers who were involved. His voice cracking with emotion, Jacobs recounted his fear when he was recently pulled over by an officer while driving to a friends house in the evening. New Jersey Attorney General Matt Platkin addresses the crowd. Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer and the Ocean County Prosecutors Office host Town Hall Community Dialogue after the death of Tyre Nichols. The event is in collaboration with Office of NJ Attorney General, Ocean County Sheriffs Department, and Ocean County Chiefs of Police Association. Toms River, NJFriday, February 3, 2023 I want to know if what happened to those Black officers, if that now becomes the template? Jacobs asked. I am sorry you felt that way when you were pulled over, Billhimer said. I think it is the new template. You are checking us. The public should expect us to act that way. More:Very little 'known right now': governor says of slaying of Sayreville councilwoman Platkin told the audience that New Jersey has adopted required police training in de-escalation, and is moving toward a system of licensing police that will make it easier to remove bad officers from the force. There has to be trust, in order for us to do our jobs, Platkin said. But he said events like Nichols death undoes a lot of positive steps the state has taken in terms of police accountability, including requiring body cameras for officers, updating the states use of force policy and giving officers training on how to respond to those with mental health issues. Story continues Ocean County Prosecutors Office Chief of Detectives Anthony Carrington. Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer and the Ocean County Prosecutors Office host Town Hall Community Dialogue after the death of Tyre Nichols. The event is in collaboration with Office of NJ Attorney General, Ocean County Sheriffs Department, and Ocean County Chiefs of Police Association. Toms River, NJFriday, February 3, 2023 Barnegat Police Chief Keith A. Germain, president of the Ocean County Chiefs Association, said police must do a better job communicating the steps they are taking to improve interactions with the community. If, when we show up, you look at us and have to worry about a negative interaction, we arent doing it right, Germain said. Billhimer and other law enforcement officers spoke of their disgust and despair upon viewing the video footage of Nichols beating. Billhimer became emotionsl as he described his 16-year-old daughters reaction; she became so upset she was unable to continue watching the video. The issue is the complete lack of humanity, the prosecutor said. That was depraved to me. Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer and the Ocean County Prosecutors Office host Town Hall Community Dialogue after the death of Tyre Nichols. The event is in collaboration with Office of NJ Attorney General, Ocean County Sheriffs Department, and Ocean County Chiefs of Police Association. Toms River, NJFriday, February 3, 2023 Anthony Carrington, the Chief of Detectives for the Prosecutors Office, said, the incident in Memphis really moved me." Carrington, who is Black, has three sons, two of them also in law enforcement. Describing the fired Memphis officers as thugs in a police uniform, Carrington also noted that law enforcement must work extra hard to reach out to all communities, as the Memphis officers have become the face of law enforcement for many. More:Sarah Stern's killer Liam McAtasney's conviction upheld by appellate court Dr. Fred Rush, past president of the Lakewood NAACP, urged police agencies to continue to diversify. I don't know where we are in trying to get more people in uniform who look like me, Rush said. Lets try to get more people who look like the communities we live in. Barnegat police chief Keith A. Germain. Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer and the Ocean County Prosecutors Office host Town Hall Community Dialogue after the death of Tyre Nichols. The event is in collaboration with Office of NJ Attorney General, Ocean County Sheriffs Department, and Ocean County Chiefs of Police Association. Toms River, NJFriday, February 3, 2023 Platkin said all police agencies in the state have to report the demographics of their departments, which can then be compared with community demographics. He admitted the state has a long way to go to recruit more officers of color. Jackson resident Asaiki Simon admitted its still difficult for her to trust the police. Trusting the police is extremely difficult for me, said Simon, who is Black. I will have more faith in this group when we don't have to wait for something to happen to have a meeting like this. Jean Mikle has been covering politics, government and environmental issues at the Jersey Shore for almost 38 years. Reach her @jeanmikle or jmikle@gannettnj.com. This article originally appeared on Asbury Park Press: Tyre Nichols death testing NJ residents' trust in the police U.S. Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee told theGrio that she was appalled at the anti-Muslim sentiment this will generate [and] the danger that this will generate against [Omar]. Democrats are decrying hypocrisy after House Republicans voted on Thursday to oust U.S. Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-Minn.) from the House Foreign Affairs Committee for previously making comments considered antisemitic. Ilhan Omar has been held accountable, but this is not about accountability it is about political revenge, said House Minority Leader, U.S. Rep. Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.), during his weekly leaders press conference. Rep. Ilhan Omar, D-Minn., is seen after the House voted to remove her from the House Foreign Affairs Committee on Thursday, February 2, 2023. (Tom Williams/CQ-Roll Call, Inc via Getty Images) After the vote, Jeffries said he intends to appoint Omar to the House Budget Committee, where she will defend Democratic values against right-wing extremism. Democratic reactions to the committee removal have been swift and heated. Just moments before the vote, U.S. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.) condemned Republicans for displaying a double standard in a fiery speech on the House floor. Dont tell me that this is about a condemnation of antisemitic remarks when you have a member of the Republican caucus who has talked about Jewish space lasers and an entire amount of tropes and also elevated her to some of the highest committee assignments in this body, Ocasio-Cortez said, referring to controversial Republican U.S. Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene of Georgia. Congresswoman Ocasio-Cortez also accused GOP lawmakers of targeting Omar because of her religion, race and gender as a Black female Muslim. Theres nothing consistent about the Republican Partys continued attack, except for the racism and incitement of violence against women of color in this body! the progressive lawmaker said emphatically. "I had a member of the Republican caucus threaten my life and the Republican caucus rewarded him with one of the most prestigious committee assignments in this Congress." Watch Rep. AOC respond to Republicans' removal of Rep. @Ilhan Omar from the Foreign Affairs Committee pic.twitter.com/A22R7jQrlC Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (@RepAOC) February 2, 2023 In January, before the Congress was sworn in, Congressman Greg Meeks of New York, the then-outgoing chair of the Foreign Affairs Committee, was determined to work against the GOPs mission to oust Omar. Story continues In a statement reacting to Thursdays vote, Meeks said, If the purpose of this vote is to punish a member for antisemitism, this resolution should not be aimed at a representative who has apologized and learned from her mistakes. In addition to calling out hypocrisy regarding Rep. Taylor Greene, Meeks said Republicans also failed to condemn Rep. Mary Miller for quoting Adolf Hitler in Congressional remarks and Rep. Paul Gosar for inviting a Holocaust denier to the State of the Union. Rep. Gregory Meeks, D-N.Y., speaks during the America Competes Act event in the Rayburn Room in the Capitol on Friday, February 4, 2022. (Photo by Bill Clark/CQ-Roll Call, Inc via Getty Images). This resolution should be condemning Speaker [Kevin] McCarthy himself for his November 6th tweet accusing three Jewish men of buying the election, an antisemitic dog whistle about Jewish money buying elections, said Meeks. Rep. Omar was proud to be on the House Foreign Affairs Committee as the only African-born refugee serving in Congress. In an interview with theGrio last year, the congresswoman spoke about her mission on the committee, particularly for Africans: I try to raise the alarm that sometimes the tools that we use might not have an impact on our intended audience, but it will have an impact on others who dont have a role in in our foreign policy and dont have a role in what we are trying to prevent. Virginia Congressman Bobby Scott told theGrio of Omar, As the only African-born and Muslim member on the Committee, her perspective and insight make her an invaluable asset to the Committees important work. U.S. Rep. Shelia Jackson Lee (D-Texas), who once served on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, also pointed out Omars unique presence on the committee and Africa, Global Health, and Global Human Rights Subcommittee. Jackson Lee told theGrio that she was appalled at the anti-Muslim sentiment this will generate [and] the danger that this will generate against [Omar]. She lamented: I dont know what has happened to the Republican leadership. TheGrio is FREE on your TV via Apple TV, Amazon Fire, Roku and Android TV. Also, please download theGrio mobile apps today! The post Democrats decry hypocrisy after Republicans oust Ilhan Omar from House committee appeared first on TheGrio. ABC News In the early morning of April 25, 2010, 911 dispatchers received a frantic call from Heidi Firkus, 25. "Someone's trying to break into my home," Heidi Firkus told the dispatcher in audio obtained by ABC News. Just 65 seconds later, another call came in this time from her husband, Nick Firkus, 27. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantiss (R) administration has filed a complaint against an Orlando foundation over a drag holiday event it hosted in which minors were allowed to attend the show. The complaint, which was filed Friday, alleges that the Orlando Philharmonic Plaza Foundation violated state law in allowing for a person to commit lewd or lascivious exhibition in the presence of an individual who is less than 16 years old. It states that the foundation hosted a show called A Drag Queen Christmas on Dec. 28 and sold alcoholic drinks during it. The complaint, which the Florida-based news outlet The Floridian published a copy of online, said that the foundation used Christmas-themed promotional materials that did not give advance notice of the sexually explicit nature of the shows contents. The materials said all ages were welcome. The states Division of Alcoholic Beverages and Tobacco under the Department of Business and Professional Regulation filed the complaint in its capacity as a regulator of alcohol. It is attempting to revoke the foundations liquor license for six alleged counts of violating Florida statutes. The complaint states that the division sent the foundation a letter ahead of the show saying sexually explicit drag show performances constitute public nuisances, lewd activity, and disorderly conduct when minors are in attendance and the foundations license could be subject to penalties if it did not ensure minors could not attend the event. The division alleges the foundation responded to the letter by placing a notice at the entrance of the venue that said the show might not be appropriate for people under 18, but it is not restricted. It said children appearing to be younger than 6 attended the show. The department announced in late December that it was investigating the show after it received multiple complaints about a Dec. 26 performance. DeSantis previously filed a complaint against a Miami restaurant in July, alleging that it violated a public decency law in allowing children to attend a drag show. He has been among the most prominent voices criticizing children being able to attend the shows, accusing them of trying to sexualize youth. The Hill has reached out to the foundation for comment. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Charlottes development pipeline in the urban core sits at $6.9 billion worth of projects in 2023, up nearly $3 billion from last year, according to the newly published State of the Center City report by Charlotte Center City Partners. Those figures account for office, multifamily and commercial development in uptown and South End. Upcoming projects include: 7.2 million square feet of office space, with 1.9 million square feet under construction and another 5.3 million square feet announced. 608,000 square feet of retail, with 62,000 square feet under construction and 546,000 square feet announced. 7,700 apartment units, with 2,600 under construction and 5,100 announced. This week, CBJ reported 865 more apartments are headed for South End, a sign that momentum in that submarket continues. 2,010 hotel rooms, with 670 under construction and 1,340 more announced. ALSO READ: Charlotte fried chicken shop offering a year of free sandwiches to first guests Charlotte continues to be in this defining period of its center city, Center City Partners CEO Michael Smith told CBJ. What were seeing is, here we are, still a top 20 (metro area), thats challenging the next tier of cities by repeatedly achieving top 10 results. Read the full story here. (WATCH BELOW: Internet company with mission to close digital divide opens South End HQ) The Democratic National Committee (DNC) voted on Saturday to overhaul the partys primary process, ditching Iowa and New Hampshire as first stops. Citing the need to better reflect the growing diversity of the Democratic Party, the committee says the presidential primary circuit will now begin in South Carolina, followed by New Hampshire, Nevada, Georgia, and Michigan. The Democratic Party chair in South Carolina, Trav Robertson, applauded the move hailing the economic and political impact that being first in the country . . . cannot be overstated or oversold, he told the State. The president of the United States of America has placed a great deal of belief and faith in our people and were going to take that responsibility very seriously. Apart from John Kerry in, every Democratic candidate that has won South Carolina in the primaries since 1992 has gone on to become the partys nominee. This is a significant effort to make the presidential primary nominating process more reflective of the diversity of this country, and to have issues that will determine the outcome of the November election part of the early process, Representative Debbie Dingell (D., Mich.) told the New York Times. The shift, which President Joe Biden favored, has caused a rift amongst New Hampshire Democrats, who took pride in their state as an early stop for presidential candidates. They could say June, they could say next week, they could say in five years, but its not going to matter, the former Democratic governor of New Hampshire, John Lynch, noted in a letter to President Biden about opposition to the calendar change. Its like asking New York to move the Statue of Liberty from New York to Florida. I mean, thats not going to happen. And its not going to happen that were going to change state law. The DNC has announced it will re-examine the ordering of state primaries every four years. The Republican Party has remained committed to preserving the current primary schedule. Story continues New Hampshire has until June 3, 2023, to comply with the overhaul and face potential penalties including limiting the number of delegates the state sends to the national convention. More from National Review anakopa/Getty Images Peter Smith was 25 when he developed a rash and symptoms that his doctor dismissed as allergies. He actually had a rare complication of Lyme disease, and died as a result. His parents just won $6.5 million in a wrongful death lawsuit. When Peter Smith visited the emergency room for a spreading rash and flu-like symptoms in June 2017, a doctor sent the 25-year-old home with a diagnosis of allergies. Smith, a recent college graduate from Temple University, had just moved to Portland, Maine, to start a job at one of the top international accounting firms, according to court documents reviewed by Insider. But before he could get his CPA license, Smith died of a heart infection called Lyme carditis on July 2, 2017 less than a month after he was misdiagnosed at Mercy Hospital. Smith was misdiagnosed with allergies twice Nearly 15% of the world's population has been infected with Lyme disease, according to a recent estimate published in BMJ Global Health. The disease can be tricky to diagnose, and delayed diagnosis may result in complications. Smith first went to the Mercy Hospital emergency room on June 17th, 2017, with symptoms that included fever, chills, dizziness, headache, and a rash, the Bangor Daily News reported. All of the symptoms could point to a diagnosis of Lyme disease, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Lyme disease is one of the most reported infectious diseases in Maine, according to the CDC, with most cases occurring during the summer. However, Smith's doctor noted he had "no signs of Lyme disease" at his first visit in June, and he was diagnosed with an allergic reaction again at a separate Mercy Hospital location two weeks later, according to the Bangor Daily News. In reality, Lyme disease had infected his heart In Smith's case, the bacteria that causes Lyme disease had entered his heart, causing a rare complication called Lyme carditis. According to the CDC, the condition occurs in approximately 1 out of every 100 Lyme disease cases. Story continues Symptoms of Lyme carditis can include light-headedness, fainting, shortness of breath, heart palpitations, and chest pain, according to the CDC. Without treatment, the bacteria in the heart can cause inflammation and impact the normal electrical signals that keep the heart beating a condition called "heart block." The condition is usually mild but in some cases, like Smith's, it can be deadly. Five days after he was sent home for the second time, Smith called an ambulance to Maine Medical Center, where he was diagnosed with Lyme carditis. He was treated and released, but died at home eight days later, according to the Bangor Daily News. After he died of Lyme disease complications, Smith's parents sued the doctor, hospital, and hospital system. Their case was heard in January 2023; on Feb. 1, a jury voted to award the parents $6.5 million for their son's wrongful death. Mercy Hospital did not respond to Insider's request for comment. Read the original article on Insider Days after the release of the late Memphis rapper Young Dolphs first posthumous album, Paper Route Frank, it was announced his life would be celebrated with a pop-up museum tour, Dolphland. The post The Dolphland Pop-Up Museum Honors The Late Young Dolphs Rap Career And Journey appeared first on Blavity. In 2021, Young Dolph was shot and killed on Nov. 17 while buying cookies for his family at Makedas Homemade Butter Cookies before heading to a community event in his hometown. His death shook the hip-hop industry as another rapper lost their life to a senseless act of violence. His estate partnered with his record label Paper Route Empire (PRE) and the Trap Music Museum worked together to bring fans an unforgettable up close and personal look at key moments that contributed to his come up. Photo: Lamar Parker/ Loki Media LLC Its paying homage to Dolph, but the pop-up is also an activation with his fans for his new album Paper Route Frank, Young Dolphs Manager and Street Execs Co-Founder Allen Parks said when chatting with Blavity. If he was here, he would be in the streets promoting his music to connect with his fans. Its an olive branch of him and a creative way he can still touch his fans. He continued, We had to change up the form since hes not actually here to do it, so we made it a museum so people could come to look at the legacy he built and fellowship to his music. Were keeping the same business principles and vision that he had. The pop-up museum tour made its debut in New York City and recently made a stop in Dallas, Texas. Other stops on the tour, based on the rappers biggest fanbases, include Denver, Los Angeles, Arizona, Houston, Washington D.C., San Antonio, Chicago, Atlanta and Memphis, with the possibility of additional cities being added along with the potential to be at festivals. The plan is to also have the Memphis location be a permanent location, Parks shared. Story continues Photo: Lamar Parker/ Loki Media LLC Before stepping foot in the museum fans can expect to see two army fatigue-wrapped cars which are symbolic of the Role Models rappers custom cars he was known to drive. Once inside, the first place theyll be in will be a corner store where Young Dolph first started marketing and promoting his mixtapes market and promote his mixtapes and launched PRE, his indie record label, in 2010. As the museum continues, a cannabis lab with strands of marijuana, likely Gelato, the rappers favorite strand created by Mario Gunzman, the founder of the well-known Sherbinskis brand. When fans exit the lab, they can take a break and snap a picture in front of the 100 Shots wall, a tribute to the hit record from his 2017 album Bulletproof. In addition to the bullet shell casings on the ground, the backdrop is the album cover itself. Next on the journey is a replica of the trap apartment that includes a recording booth. Young Dolph bought the apartment to record music and pack his CDs when he first started rapping in the early days of his career. As PRE started to grow, the Major artist started signing more artists, one of them being his cousin and fellow Memphis rapper Key Glock. PRE began to make major moves in 2017, so it was only right to have a room dedicated to the label with pictures of all the signed artists, album covers, a library, a small statue of the late rapper and walls with benjamins on it, because of course he had a big ambition for cash. From here, fans will end the tour in the Hall of Fame room, which has blue walls and contains intimate iconic pictures that influenced the culture, intimate photos of Young Dolphs family members, plaques and a memorable suede blue suit he wore. We just wanted to tell an overarching story from the cornerstore to being one of the biggest street music artists of all-time, a legend, explained Parks. Guests will be able to spend 30 minutes minimum in the museum to see the exhibit and take pictures. Tickets for Dolphland are $40 and can be purchased online here. Some of the proceeds will help support the Ida Mae Foundation, a nonprofit named after his late grandmother, to help continue her legacy. See the upcoming dates for the tour below. HYANNIS Former Cape Cod Hospital cardiologist Richard Zelman has refiled his lawsuit against the hospital, its parent company Cape Cod Healthcare, and its CEO Michael Lauf in a different court. Zelman's lawsuit, originally filed on Dec. 6 in Barnstable Superior Court, alleges he was fired for blowing the whistle on hospital practices he saw as prioritizing profit over patient care. He filed a voluntary notice to dismiss without prejudice on Jan. 25, before refiling the suit in Suffolk Superior Court on Friday. "As long as Cape Cod Hospital continues to place cardiac patients in harm's way, I cannot and will not be silenced," said Zelman in a statement to the Times on Friday. Dr. Richard Zelman former medical director of Cape Cod Hospital's Heart and Vascular Institute, refiled his lawsuit against Cape Cod Healthcare and its CEO Michael Lauf on Friday. (Photo: Merrily Cassidy/Cape Cod Times, file) On Tuesday, Lauf vehemently denied the allegations in an interview with the Times, saying he and the hospital look forward to their day in court. He said the lawyer representing Cape Cod Healthcare had expected Zelman to refile his lawsuit. After Zelman filed the first complaint, his privileges to perform medical procedures Cape Cod Hospital as part of his private practice were suspended on Dec. 21. In a letter notifying him about the suspension, the Medical Executive Committee accused Zelman of engaging in "bullying behavior", according to the refiled lawsuit, but did not cite examples. Zelman lawsuit contains new allegations against CCH, Lauf Without privileges, Zelman "was effectively out of business," because much of his work can only be performed in the hospital, according to the lawsuit. "The only explanation for why the defendants revoked Dr. Zelmans privileges is that they sought to retaliate against him, drive him out of business, discredit him in response to his repeated whistleblowing activity, and prevent him from referring patients to facilities in Boston where the patients would receive better care (and not contribute to defendants income)," the refiled lawsuit reads. Then, on Jan. 26, Lauf sent a letter to all Cape Cod Healthcare physicians, according to the new lawsuit. While it did not specifically name Zelman, it was clearly issued in response to Zelman's objections about hospital care and characterized those concerns as "inflammatory and baseless," according to the lawsuit. Story continues Emergency medical response:Provincetown voters will be asked to pay for full-time fire department. Here's why. "The letter, therefore, asserted, as a fact, that Dr. Zelman was a liar and discounted the multiple unnecessary and avoidable patient deaths and Dr. Zelmans concerns over the same. Doing so served no other purpose than to discredit Dr. Zelman to his peers," the lawsuit reads. The newly refiled lawsuit also claims $20,000 was deducted from Zelman's bonus for fiscal 2022 and that he lost access to an electronic medical records system that stores information on thousands of his patients. Eventually, he was granted "very limited access that does not provide Dr. Zelman with all the information he needs, limits the number of patient records he can access, and still seems to prohibit him from receiving consult requests." Zelman's previous claims against Cape Cod Healthcare maintained The suit maintains allegations that in 2019 Lauf wanted to limit the use of a medical device to patients whose insurance reimbursed the hospital at higher rates than Medicare and Medicaid and that Zelman faced retaliation for reporting "grievously dangerous" care by the hospital's cardiac surgeons employed by Brigham and Womens Hospital including what the lawsuit terms "sham investigations." The hospital no longer has a contract with Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston, which has partnered with Cape Cod Hospitals open-heart program since its inception in 2002. The hospital has been affiliated with Beth Israel Lahey Health since 2022. Cape Cod Healthcare, based in Hyannis, operates two acute care hospitals, Cape Cod Hospital and Falmouth Hospital, along with a homecare and hospice agency, a skilled nursing and rehabilitation facility, an assisted living facility and a number of health programs. The nonprofit employs 450 physicians, according to its website. Curious Cape Cod:Are bobcats roaming Cape Cod? We dig our claws into a feline mystery Zelman, 64, is an interventional cardiologist who has been affiliated with Cape Cod Hospital since 1990. He was hired full time in 2006 and became the medical director of the hospitals Heart and Vascular Institute in 2018. He says he was terminated on Sept. 30. Zane Razzaq writes about housing and real estate. Reach her at zrazzaq@capecodonline.com. Follow her on Twitter @zanerazz. Stay connected with Cape Cod news, sports, restaurants and breaking news. Download our free app. This article originally appeared on Cape Cod Times: Dr. Zelman refiles lawsuit against Cape Cod Healthcare and CEO Lauf Seattle police are investigating after a driver crashed into Lake Washington and then ran away on Friday night, leaving the car upside down in the water. According to the Seattle Police Department, several 911 callers reported seeing a car go into the lake near Lake Washington Boulevard South and South Horton Street just before 7 p.m.. Police and firefighters arrived to find an unoccupied blue Ford Focus upside down along the shore in shallow water. Witnesses told police that the driver was speeding and lost control of the car. After the crash, they ran away from the scene. The car was towed away. Middletown Division of Police Special Operations Unit seized narcotics, rifles, and over $100,000 in cash after executing two search warrants Wednesday, February 1. >> TRENDING: Dayton officers suspended after woman, daughter found dead hours after domestic violence call Law enforcement executed a search warrant in the 500 block of 15th Avenue and another in the 700 block of 10th Avenue. The searches produced a sizeable amount of cocaine, approximately six pounds of marijuana, an AK-47 rifle, five handguns, two rifles, and $105,000 in cash, a departmental spokesperson stated. Two vehicles were also confiscated for later forfeiture, the spokesperson continued. One of the five handguns was reportedly stolen from City of Trenton, according to the spokesperson. Officials arrested two suspects: Benjamin Davis and Jatae Tisdale. They were booked into Middletown City Jail awaiting the judicial process. Middletown Police were aided by a SWAT team and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Cincinnati Field Office. Scotland lifted the Calcutta Cup at Twickenham (Getty Images) Duhan van der Merwe ensured Steve Borthwicks England reign was launched with an agonising defeat after the Scotland rugby wing crossed twice in a Calcutta Cup classic at Twickenham. Van der Merwe plundered his decisive second try in the 74th minute as Scotland came from behind to record a 29-23 victory in their Six Nations opener. The marauding Lions wing had already brought Twickenham to its feet with a stunning first-half score that began in his own half and saw five would-be tacklers beaten by his speed, strength and footwork. While a magnificent solo score, it exposed a failing in Englands defence that was a recurring theme in the afternoons main indicator of a team playing under a new regime for the first time. But overall it was a promising start to the Borthwick era as they performed with the speed and purpose that was missing in the latter stages of Eddie Jones time in charge, before running out of steam in the closing stages. Max Malins crossed twice and Ellis Genge touched down for England in a seven-try thriller that saw irrepressible Scotland rewarded for refusing to give up. England were booed from the pitch after a limp defeat by South Africa in their last appearance, the climax to a dire 2022 that resulted in Jones being sacked, but this seven-try thriller was very different. They had won only one of the last five Calcutta Cup matches and the early omens signposted that run continuing when Huw Jones touched down Sione Tuipulotus grubber in the 15th minute. Duhan van der Merwes second try of the match proved decisive for Scotland (Andrew Matthews/PA) (PA Wire) Earlier in the move, Jones had raced through a wide gap in the midfield defence as Scotland struck off their first attack of the game having been on the ropes for the opening exchanges. Apart from the all-too-familiar penalty count, there had been much to admire about Englands start and in the 23rd minute they were over, pouncing on the 15th phase of a sustained assault in the 22 when Malins produced a fine finish of Marcus Smiths crossfield kick. The brittle home defence was exposed once again as Van der Merwe, taking a pass from Kyle Steyn, left a host of white shirts in his wake as he weaved a path to the whitewash. Story continues It was a classy individual score, but England showed their own flair to engineer a second for Malins as patient build-up and smart handling created a simple run in on the right wing. An Owen Farrell penalty gave the hosts a one-point interval lead and they were over for a third time through Genge in the 48th minute after a succession of dynamic carries by their pack. Scotlands visits to the home 22 were rare but they showed a ruthless streak when they arrived, with Ben White taking advantage of an absent ruck defence to plunder a sharp try. (Getty Images) Veteran prop Dan Cole came on for his first cap since the 2019 World Cup final and forced a penalty at the scrum in his first involvement of the match, giving England the platform to renew their attack. Farrell landed his second penalty and Russell replied in kind as a nailbiting conclusion approached. Scotland kept pressing and the breakthrough arrived with six minutes left as Van der Merwe showed his strength to bulldoze over in the left corner and keep the Calcutta Cup in Edinburgh. By Clement Manirabarusha BUJUMBURA (Reuters) -East African regional leaders on Saturday renewed their call for an immediate ceasefire by all sides in the conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo that pits the country's military against a rebel group it has accused Rwanda of supporting. At a summit in Burundi's capital Bujumbura, the leaders of the regional East African Community (EAC) bloc called for an "immediate ceasefire by all parties," according to a communique issued at the end of the meeting. The M23 rebel group has seized large areas of eastern Congo's North Kivu province in a rapid onslaught since Oct. 20 that has threatened the provincial capital, Goma. The conflict has inflamed regional tensions with Congo accusing neighbour Rwanda of backing and sponsoring the Tutsi-led rebellion. United Nations experts and Western powers have also accused Rwanda of backing the M23, although Rwanda has denied any involvement. Saturday's meeting was the latest diplomatic effort to try to end the insurgency, which has displaced at least 520,000 people since March 2022 in North Kivu, a territory long plagued by conflict. Earlier this week, Pope Francis visited Congo and called for an end to violence. Regional leaders had brokered an agreement in November under which the rebels were meant to cease fire and withdraw from recently seized positions by Jan. 15, but that did not happen. A U.N. internal report said the rebels were flouting the ceasefire and withdrawal terms. Saturday's summit was attended by heads of state from Rwanda, Congo, Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania and Burundi and senior officials from the region. They also demanded the withdrawal of all foreign and armed groups from Congo and asked regional military chiefs to meet within one week and set a timeframe for the withdrawal. "The summit reiterated its call to all parties to de-escalate tensions," the communique read. At the summit Congo's President Felix Tshisekedi warned the commander of an East African regional military force deployed in eastern Congo, Jeff Nyagah, a Kenyan, against showing bias toward the rebels. Story continues "Do not favor the M23. It would be a shame for the population to turn on you," Tshisekedi is seen telling Nyagah in a video tweeted by his spokeswoman, Tina Salama. "You came to help us and not to have problems. Pay attention to that. Communicate with the population," Tshisekedi said. Kenyan President William Ruto was visible standing nearby as Tshisekedi warned the commander. The EAC agreed on a regional force in April last year to be deployed in eastern Congo to help end decades of bloodshed in the area. On Jan. 27, M23 rebels took control of the town of Kitshanga in Masisi territory and control of a new road, further isolating the provincial capital Goma. (Additional reporting by Sonia Rolley; Writing by Elias Biryabarema; Editing by Mark Potter and Toby Chopra) Firefighters battled 2-alarm fires in Easton and Quincy as an arctic blast caused subzero temperatures across the region on Saturday, fire officials said. In Easton, at about 4:21 a.m., a homeowner reported fire in the attic of their home at 339 Depot St., Easton Fire Chief Justin Alexander said in a statement. When firefighters arrived, they found heavy fire coming through the roof of the multi-story, single-family home. Crews battles second-alarm fire at collision center during arctic blast in Quincy Firefighters began attacking the fire from the homes interior. Crews also battled the extreme cold while fighting the fire, and were able to extinguish the fire quickly by ensuring a steady flow of water, Alexander said. The temperatures were well below zero with wind chill at least at minus-35. Water freezes quickly, and the crews did an amazing job keeping water flowing to the fire, Alexander said. Without their training and hard work this fire could have had a far worse outcome. Several surrounding communities responded to provide mutual aid, including Brockton, Norton, Raynham, and Stoughton Fire Departments, Southeastern Massachusetts Regional Emergency Communications Center, Easton Community Emergency Response Team, the Mansfield Emergency Management Agency, and the state Department of Fire Services Special Operations rehabilitation unit. The Avon Fire Department provided station coverage. Easton Police and the Easton Department of Public Works also responded. Meanwhile, over in Quincy, firefighters battled a second-alarm fire in sub-zero conditions on Liberty Street. According to Quincy Fire, the fire began at a Collison Center and spread to another commercial building. Fire crews were dealing with frozen hydrants and water issues due to the cold. Both fires remain under investigation. This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available. Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW Scientists and roboticists have long looked at nature for inspiration to develop new features for machines. In this case, researchers from Ecole Polytechnique Federale de Lausanne (EPFL), Switzerland were inspired by bats and other animals that rely on echolocation to design a method that would give small robots that ability to navigate themselves one that doesn't need expensive hardware or components too large or too heavy for tiny machines. In fact, according to PopSci, the team only used the integrated audio hardware of an interactive puck robot and built an audio extension deck using cheap mic and speakers for a tiny flying drone that can fit in the palm of your hand. The system works just like bat echolocation. It was designed to emit sounds across frequencies, which a robot's microphone then picks up as they bounce off walls. An algorithm the team created then goes to work to analyze sound waves and create a map with the room's dimensions. In a paper published in IEEE Robotics and Automation Letters, the researchers said existing "algorithms for active echolocation are less developed and often rely on hardware requirements that are out of reach for small robots." They also said their "method is model-based, runs in real time and requires no prior calibration or training." Their solution could give small machines the capability to be sent on search-and-rescue missions or to previously uncharted locations that bigger robots wouldn't be able to reach. And since the system only needs onboard audio equipment or cheap additional hardware, it has a wide range of potential applications. The researchers found during their tests that their technique is still not quite as accurate as systems that use bigger and more expensive hardware, such as GPS sensors or cameras. They're hoping to improve its accuracy in future versions, though, and to eliminate the need for the system to generate sounds. Instead, they want their system to be able to echolocate using the sounds the drone itself produces, such as the whirl of its own propellers. Update 02/07/23: Edited the article to correct where the research took place: Ecole Polytechnique Federale de Lausanne (EPFL) in Switzerland. I try to use my culture and what I know to sell to the world, he said. Eddy Kenzo is the first Ugandan artist to be nominated for a Grammy award. He is nominated for the song, Gimme Love, a collaboration with American musician Matt B. Kenzo noted that the message of the Luganda-English track, which is nominated in the Best Global Music Performance category, is all about giving love. Nothing could be better than that, he said. For Kenzo, who was orphaned as a child and homeless, the Grammy milestone symbolizes the ultimate journey of triumph over adversity. Being nominated in Grammy, when I dont do English, when I dont try to do that kind of music that is done there and here and be recognized in my own way its like crazy. Its so so so crazy I cant even express how I feel, he explained to Africanews. Speaking about his collaboration with Matt B, Kenzo said, I had to let him do what he does, but I had to make sure that I bring in myself in my own way. I started doing my Luganda and I taught him some of the pass, I told him to do it. The artist, whose real name is Edrisah Musuuza, is now on a mission to celebrate his culture with fans in the farthest parts of the world. I try to use my culture and what I know to sell to the world, he said. I sell the language that I speak, I sell the music we do here locally and I modernize it and put out the sound that comes from where I come from and it goes global. Kenzo grew up in poverty but made a name for himself in the music industry with the hit single, Stamina. He rose to fame with the 2014 release of the single, Sitya Loss. The songs video, showing Ugandan youngsters dancing to the track, was a viral hit. I love who I am, I love promoting who I am, the father of two said. His record label, Big Talent Entertainment through which he also mentors Kampalas disadvantaged youth is a conduit for promotion. The 65th Grammy Awards ceremony is scheduled to air live at 8 p.m. ET Sunday on CBS from Los Angeles Crypto.com Arena. Story continues Eddy Kenzo attends the 2015 BET Awards on June 28, 2015 at the Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles. (Photo by Frederick M. Brown/Getty Images for BET) TheGrio is now on your TV via Apple TV, Amazon Fire, Roku, and Android TV. Also, please download theGrio mobile apps today! The post Eddy Kenzo, Ugandas first Grammy nominee, says his journey encourages those who struggle appeared first on TheGrio. ATLANTA (AP) They were blamed for long lines in Los Angeles during Californias 2020 presidential primary, triggered check-in delays in Columbus, Ohio, a few months later and were at the center of former President Donald Trumps call for supporters to protest in Detroit during last November's midterms. High-profile problems involving electronic pollbooks have opened the door for those peddling election conspiracies and underscore the critical role the technology plays in whether voting runs smoothly. Russia and Iran already have demonstrated interest in accessing the systems. Despite their importance and potential vulnerabilities, national standards for the security and reliability of electronic pollbooks do not exist and efforts underway to develop them may not be ready or widely adopted in time for the 2024 presidential election. We have a trust issue in elections. The more we can say there are standards that equipment must be tested to, the better, said Larry Norden, an election security expert with the Brennan Center for Justice. Its like a seal of approval that really doesnt exist right now. Poll workers use electronic pollbooks to check in voters. They typically are a tablet or laptop computer that accesses an electronic list of registered voters with names, addresses and precinct information, with some doing so through an internet connection. Testing standards and a certification program for voting machines have been in effect for years, a process overseen by the U.S. Election Assistance Commission. While compliance is voluntary, most states will use at least some aspect of the federal process to ensure their voting and ballot-counting machines are secure and functioning properly. But there is a much wider system of technology that supports U.S. elections beyond the devices used to scan and tally votes from electronic pollbooks to voter registration databases and systems used to report unofficial election results to the public. Their use has been expanding rapidly in recent years. Story continues Nearly one-third of all voting jurisdictions in the U.S. used electronic pollbooks in 2020, compared with about 18% four years earlier, according to data collected by Election Assistance Commission. The systems come with unique security challenges. In 2016, Russian hackers scanned state voter registration systems looking for vulnerabilities and even accessed the voter registration database in Illinois, although an investigation later determined no voter data was manipulated. In 2020, Iranian hackers obtained confidential voter data and used it to send misleading emails to voters, seeking to spread misinformation and influence the election. Experts say the systems could be prime targets again for those seeking to disrupt the voting process and sow chaos around U.S. elections. Gaining access to a voter registration database, for example, could allow someone to delete voters from the rolls. When people show up to vote, they are told they are not on the list. Although those voters would be allowed to cast a provisional ballot that eventually could count, widespread problems with the voter registration database would trigger questions about a process that already has suffered a loss in public confidence following a sustained campaign by Trump and his allies to discredit the results of the 2020 presidential election. There is no evidence of widespread fraud or manipulation of voting equipment in 2020, backed up by exhaustive reviews in states lost by Trump. In Detroit last November, a few polling locations had a brief issue checking in voters related to a data error that was quickly identified and resolved. Trump seized on the early reports, calling the situation in Detroit REALLY BAD in a social media post and urging people to Protest, Protest, Protest! Unlike voting machines that are not directly connected to the internet, many electronic pollbook systems are connected by design. Some are quite sophisticated. In counties that have put in place a vote center model, where registered voters can cast a ballot at any polling place, electronic pollbooks must be able to communicate with each other and with a central system. That's to ensure voters are not able to cast ballots at multiple locations or vote in-person after returning a mail ballot. While that can present significant security challenges, scrutiny for the pollbook systems is not as consistent as with voting machines. The lack of national standards has left state and local election officials on their own. For the 2020 election, 15 states, including Arizona, Florida and Nevada, did not require any type of electronic pollbook testing or certification, according to federal data. States and even some counties are often testing their pollbook systems in isolation and results are not routinely shared an information gap that could be addressed with a national testing program. "Having that type of knowledge allows them to put compensating controls into place, but they are doing it on an individual basis state by state, county by county, said Ryan Macias, an election and security expert who advises federal, state and local officials. Aware of the risks, many election officials require back-up measures, such as paper copies of voter lists at polling locations. Election officials and experts note that one advantage of national testing standards for voting machines is the ability to assure voters that they have been properly scrutinized. Two efforts are underway that seek to address the lack of uniform testing standards for electronic pollbooks. The Election Assistance Commission partnered with the nonprofit Center for Internet Security to test pollbooks and other nonvoting machine technology. But the federal agency began working on its pilot testing program in late 2021, about the same time the center announced results of the first phase of its own project. Its not clear why the two groups went their separate ways and what will happen next. A spokesman for the center, Jay Billington, said the group is close to concluding the pilot and expects to provide an update soon. Thomas Hicks, chair of the commission, said the agency is making progress on its own pilot program, but that it was unlikely testing standards could be in place before the 2024 election. But this is why we move forward," he said. "In 2026, there will be another federal election, and in 2028 another. Hicks said he welcomed the work done by the center and thought having more than one testing program could allow states to pick the best option for them. Experts said having national testing standards would go a long way to reducing costs of the systems and lessen the burden on state and local election officials to navigate security on their own. Companies that make the equipment have expressed support for the effort. During a November 2021 panel hosted by the commission to discuss its pilot project, representatives from testing laboratories said they had evaluated 76 different pollbooks by about a dozen manufacturers over the past three years. Agency officials noted the stakes were high. Real or perceived attacks on our voting systems can threaten voter confidence, one commissioner, Don Palmer, said during the panel. So thats one reason why we think as much testing as possible is a good thing. A California jury has cleared Elon Musk of wrongdoing over 2018 tweets in which he declared that he had the financing to take electric vehicle maker Tesla private. The billionaire was found not liable by the jury in a San Francisco federal court in a class action securities fraud case brought by Tesla shareholders who alleged that his actions had cost them tens of millions of dollars. Mr Musk had told the jury that his 2018 tweet about taking Tesla private at $420 a share was not a joke and had nothing to do with marijuana. And he testified in court that when he tweeted about taking Tesla private, he believed that he had funding secured after meeting with officials from Saudi Arabias Investment Fund. In the first of the 2018 tweets, Mr Musk stated funding secured for what would have been a $72bn buyout of the company at $420 per share. He later tweeted that the deal was imminent. Mr Musk told the jury that the use of the number was a coincidence and represented a 20 per cent premium of Teslas share price in August 2018. When the deal never materialised, Mr Musk and Tesla agreed to a $40m settlement with the Securities and Exchange Commission that allowed him to stay as the companys CEO but forced him to stand down as company chairman for three years. He doesnt think ahead of time in that rushed moment that this could be interpreted differently and what it means to him, Mr Musks attorney Alex Spiro told the jury earlier on Friday. In that moment he didnt think, how could my words be interpreted differently by you than it means to me. You have to assess this in context hes considering taking it private and the issue is will it actually take it forward, he added. No fraud has ever been built on the back of a consideration. Elon Musk was cleared Friday by a federal jury over his "funding secured" 2018 tweet to take Tesla private. Following the verdict, the billionaire's first words on Twitter were: "Thank goodness." He added that he was "deeply appreciative" of the jury's decision to clear him. Elon Musk showed his appreciation for the jurors who cleared him after Tesla investors claimed that his 2018 "funding secured" tweet was meant to intentionally influence investors. "Thank goodness" the billionaire tweeted late Friday night following the verdict by a federal jury of nine individuals in the civil trial. "The wisdom of the people has prevailed!" the billionaire added. "I am deeply appreciative of the jury's unanimous finding of innocence in the Tesla 420 take-private case." Musk's 2018 tweet, which pushed Tesla's shareholders to launch the costly legal battle against him, read: "Am considering taking Tesla private at $420. Funding secured." The jurors were asked to decide whether Musk had purposely misguided investors, as the deal did not go through. During the trial, Musk's lawyers described a meeting the tech billionaire held with Yasir Al-Rumayyan, an official in Saudi Arabia's Private Investment Fund, where Musk said Al-Rumayyan pledged to help finance the deal to take Tesla private. Musk told jurors in January that he trusted Al-Rumayyan's verbal promises, which led to the "funding secured" tweet about taking Tesla private. The investors' attorney, Nicholas Porritt of Levi & Korsinsky LLP, refuted Musk's claims and argued that a conversation of that nature would have some written record. However, Musk's attorney, Alex Spiro of Quinn Emanuel Urquhart & Sullivan, said in closing arguments that the Tesla founder was being portrayed as a "fire-breathing dragon," and that he couldn't be prosecuted for being a "bad Tweeter." Musk and Spiro didn't immediately respond to a request for comment from Insider, made outside normal working hours. Read the original article on Business Insider Elon Musk is off the hook for his 2018 tweets claiming he had funding secured to take Tesla private for $420 a share. A jury found that Musk was not liable for Tesla investors losses, following a weeks-long trial in San Francisco. The verdict is a major victory for Musk, who could have been liable for billions of dollars in damages. Musk had testified in federal court that just because he tweets something, it "does not mean people believe it or will act accordingly." He also argued that he could have used his shares of SpaceX to fund the deal. The shareholders who brought the class action suit had argued that Musks statements about funding were false, and that they lost vast amounts of money due to stock fluctuations in the aftermath of Musks tweets. But while the judge in the case concluded that the tweets were "objectively false and reckless," the jury didnt find that Musk had deliberately misled the public. While the verdict ends the years-long saga of the funding secured tweets, the posts werent entirely without consequences for Musk. He settled with the Securities and Exchange Commission in 2018, and stepped down from his role as Tesla board chair as a condition of the settlement. Musk has long decried the SEC settlement and has said he was forced to admit I lied to save Teslas life. In a statement to Bloomberg following the verdict, Musk's lawyer, Alex Spiro, said "the jury got it right." Musk also weighed in naturally, via tweet saying he was "deeply appreciative." Thank goodness, the wisdom of the people has prevailed! I am deeply appreciative of the jurys unanimous finding of innocence in the Tesla 420 take-private case. Elon Musk (@elonmusk) February 3, 2023 Update 2/3 7:19 PM ET: Added Elon Musk's tweet about the verdict. An Enumclaw man, the longtime commissioner for an East King County taxing district, and his wife have been sentenced to federal prison for stealing more than $468,000 from taxpayers through a fraud scheme they operated for several years. A federal jury in Seattle convicted Allan Thomas, 70, and Joann Thomas, 67, in May of conspiracy and aggravated identity theft, in addition to four counts of wire and mail fraud, according to the U.S. Attorneys Office for the Western District of Washington. Joann Thomas was also found guilty of four counts of money laundering and another count of aggravated identity theft. U.S. District Court Judge Richard Jones sentenced Allan Thomas to 30 months in prison and three years of supervised release on Friday, according to the U.S. Attorneys Office. Jones sentenced Joann Thomas to three years in prison and three years of supervised release last month. You were a public officer in a position of trust People trusted you not to enrich yourself, Jones said during Allan Thomas sentencing according to the U.S. Attorneys Office. These funds were ill-gotten gains, they were not earned. It was a breach of trust. As Commissioner for King County Drainage District 5 and 5A for more than 35 years, Allan Thomas role was to help estimate maintenance costs for the county auditor to assess taxes and then authorize payment to service providers, according to a news release. As early as 2012, Joann Thomas set up a joint business bank account for her husbands son from a previous marriage, according to court records and testimony cited in a news release. Allan Thomas funneled more than $413,000 to his sons business for drainage ditch maintenance and flood control. But the business didnt exist. Mr. Thomas and his wife treated taxpayer money as if it was their own, U.S. Attorney Nick Brown said in a statement. And they repeatedly lied, claiming tax dollars for ditch maintenance work that was never performed. They not only cheated taxpayers out of money, they also increased the risk of damage from flooding due to an overgrown drainage ditch network. Story continues At trial, Thomas son testified he only performed two small jobs in 2012 when he was just out of high school, according to a news release. A current drainage district commissioner said he observed that the ditch network had received little maintenance for years. Financial records presented in court showed the Thomases transferred the money from the shell business account to pay personal expenses, such as mortgage payments, taxes and supplies for their dairy farm, according to a news release. They also withdrew more than $68,000 in cash. The Thomases forged the signatures of Allan Thomas son and another drainage commissioner on records and checks as a part of the scheme, according to a news release. After learning of an investigation into their fraud in 2018, the Thomases set up another sham company to divert taxpayer dollars to, according to a news release. A friend who helped them continue the fraud has been convicted for repeatedly lying to the FBI. The IRS and FBI led the investigation of the Thomases with assistance from the Enumclaw Police Department, according to a news release. The Enumclaw City Attorney and Washington State Auditors Office also reviewed the taxing districts finances. Pensioners march during a general strike called by trade unions in Bilbao, Spain, in January 2020. (Vincent West/Reuters) BARCELONA, Spain Chanting Retirement before arthritis, more than a million people poured into the streets in cities across France on Tuesday in protest of government plans to boost the countrys retirement age from 62 to 64. Its unfair to make people work until 64 nobody is going to hire them, former public transportation director Anne Brunner, 62, told Yahoo News, adding that, in her experience, after age 55 many French workers are shown the door and few are rehired. Employers think older workers have too much experience, are too critical and too expensive, she said. But the volatile issue of raising the retirement age, which a recent poll showed 66% of the French opposed as well as ageism in the workplace are Europe-wide problems as governments grapple with how to fund state pensions when people are living far longer. When many of todays French retirees entered the workforce in 1980, for example, the typical person in France lived to be 74; now they are living a decade longer. Union leaders leading a demonstration in Paris on Tuesday. (Christophe Ena/AP) The majority of European countries have raised retirement ages, Mika Vidlund, liaison manager at the Finnish Center for Pensions, told Yahoo News, and many countries are linking that age to life expectancies. Due to recent changes in pension policies in Europe, age 67 is the new 65, he said. And some countries are going further. In 2010, France saw similar protests when it raised the retirement age from 60 to 62. But those changes are minor compared with the increases in several other European countries. Denmark, for instance, instituted a policy that requires the government to raise the retirement age in concert with increases in average life expectancy, and today its retirement age is 68. Other countries, such as the Netherlands, have a different ratio: For each year of increased life expectancy, another eight months is added to the retirement age. What they're essentially doing is fixing the number of years people on average can spend in retirement, Paris-based Wouter De Tavernier, an economist at the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), told Yahoo News. Story continues An elderly barquillero, or wafer seller, waits for customers during the festivities of San Cayetano, the patron saint of labor and bread, in Madrid. (Manu Fernandez/AP) The U.S. Congress is also considering bumping up the age at which one can start receiving Social Security, with some Republican members of Congress debating whether benefits should start at age 70. But as painful as that could be to many Americans, the situation in Europe is much more extreme due to differences in pension systems. For American retirees, pensions from the government i.e., Social Security make up, on average, about 30% of a retiree's income, according to the Social Security Administration. In Europe, however, 401(k)s are not as common and government pensions often provide 80% to 90% of a retirees pension payments. In France, Spain, Italy, Austria and Poland, state payments on average make up 100% of received pensions, according to OECD data. Another factor that weighs heavily on the need to raise the retirement age in Europe: declining birth rates. This whole issue of increasing public pension expenditures in Europe is the result, on the one hand, of people living longer, and on the other hand, of fewer people being born, said De Tavernier. And what matters for pensions is how many retirees there are compared to people of working age. According to OECD figures, Italy had 24 retirees per 100 people in the job market in 1990, when the retirement age was 60. Now, with retirement at 67, the figure is nearly 40 retirees to that 100. And while the U.S. government pays about 7% of GDP for pensions, many European governments pay much more, with 16% of Italys GDP, for example, going toward retiree payments. Italian pensioners in a protest on Dec. 16 in Rome against the government's 2023 draft budget and demanding pension revaluation. (Filippo Monteforte/AFP via Getty Images) There are three things you can do when pension expenditures increase, said De Tavernier. The first is to cut the amounts of pensions, which is not popular by any means. The second option, he said, is to increase taxes or contributions paid by employers and employees, which means people at working age will not be happy or to siphon money from other programs to pensions, but that requires cutting spending elsewhere. And that leaves the third option, which is to increase the retirement age, which is not popular either. However, he added, of all the three options, it may be the least painful." But simply trying to solve the problem by raising the retirement age faces its own challenges. On one hand, sociologist Moritz Hess, a professor of gerontology at the University of Applied Sciences Niederrhein in Germany, told Yahoo News, the state is telling the older workers, we need you and you need to work longer, because you need to finance the pensions, and then on the other hand, older workers are still facing a lot of ageism at the workplace. And this is a societal contradiction. While some older workers are loudly balking at the prospect of being forced to put in more years before being able to retire with full benefits, some younger workers dont mind working many more years than their parents or grandparents. I think its only fair for professionals who start working in their mid- to late 20s to work until they are 70, unless they have serious health issues, Lucie Astill, 42, an administrative assistant at a law firm in Barcelona, told Yahoo News. I have a mortgage until I am 70, so I have no plans to retire before then. People are healthier now, and it is just unfair to expect the state to support you financially for 30-plus years if you retire at 60. A senior worker adjusts equipment at an electrical dispatching station. (Getty Images) Modern European workers also have a plethora of benefits that make the idea of working for five decades far more tolerable. Last year, Astill and her husband both took 16 weeks of paid maternity leave, for instance, and when their child turns 2 and a half, day care in Spain is free of charge. And across most of Europe, workers get four weeks of vacation each year, typically taken in August, compared with just two for the average American. On the downside, Europeans on average pay higher taxes than U.S. citizens. Astill, for one, questions the model of lumping the majority of a persons free time at the end of their life, pointing to recently retired relatives who she said are bored out of their minds. De Tavernier, who is 34, agrees that todays younger workers in Europe have perks unknown to their parents and grandparents. One thing that may be overlooked is that we are one of the first generations for whom all kinds of care policies and care-leave schemes, including decent maternity leave, are available, he said, citing paid time off given workers for child care and even elder care. Those were not options for previous generations. You could argue that we already are using some [of the retirement] time now, and that we would then have to compensate by working longer. An Everett man was sentenced Friday to 16 months in prison for possession of a stolen rifle that was taken from a Seattle Police Department vehicle during a downtown protest in May 2020, U.S. Attorney Nick Browns office announced. Jacob Little, 26, was captured on Seattle police surveillance on May 30, 2020, with a large bag used to store a Colt M4 rifle with a suppressor, according to court documents. The bag was taken from an SPD vehicle that was parked outside the downtown Nordstrom. Little later sold the gun online via social media. You didnt care (who you sold it to) as long as you got paid. You sold it to someone with mental health issues, the judge said at the sentencing. The gun buyer buried the gun on his grandparents property in Snohomish County and later dug it up after threatening his girlfriend, officials said. Police were able to seize the gun before it could be used in a crime. After the theft and sale of the gun, but before authorities identified Little in this case, he allegedly fired multiple shots when fights broke out at a car meet in the parking lot of an Uwajimaya grocery store on Aug. 30, 2020. According to documents, Little was seen firing into the air and into a crowd of people. In January 2021, Little was charged with second-degree murder and assault, accused of killing a 25-year-old man and injuring a 15-year-old boy in the August 2020 shooting. By Svea Herbst-Bayliss NEW YORK (Reuters) - Activist investment firm Starboard Value LP has amassed a sizable stake in Rogers Corp and is seeking seats on the electronics materials company's board in its push for changes, people familiar with the matter said on Friday. The board challenge comes after chemical company DuPont in November walked away from a $5.2 billion deal to acquire Rogers because it failed to secure regulatory approval for the transaction in China. The deal had originally been announced in late 2021. Starboard, which is led by Jeffrey Smith, has been building a stake in Rogers that is nearing 5% and has notified the company that it will nominate at least three people to the company's 10-member board, the sources said, requesting anonymity because the matter is confidential. Starboard's plans for the company could not immediately be learned. Starboard and Rogers did not respond to requests for comment. Rogers, which was founded in 1832, makes materials that are used in electronics and wireless infrastructure. Its stock price tumbled after the DuPont deal was scrapped and is down 47% over the last 52 weeks. Since the start of 2023, the stock has climbed 22% as the broader market moved higher, giving Rogers a market value of $2.8 billion. The company has made changes since the DuPont deal fell apart. Colin Gouveia, who ran Rogers' elastomeric material solutions unit, became CEO this year. Former chief executive, Bruce Hoechner, who retired at the end of last year, will step down from the board at the end of March, according to the company's website. Starboard has been active, including recent bets on cloud-based software company Salesforce, software company Splunk and website maker Wix.com. (Reporting by Svea Herbst-Bayliss in New York; Editing by Leslie Adler) The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has resumed flights at three airports in North Carolina and South Carolina after pausing them temporarily as the Chinese surveillance balloon moved across those states before reaching the Atlantic Ocean. The FAA said in a statement on Saturday that it paused departures and arrivals at Wilmington International Airport in North Carolina and Myrtle Beach International and Charleston International airports in South Carolina to support the Defense Department in a national security effort. They also closed additional airspace. The agency reported around 3:15 p.m. that flights to and from these airports resumed and the airspace has been reopened. This comes after U.S. officials reportedly shot down the suspected spy balloon over ocean, and are working to clean up the debris. The White House avoided shooting it down while was over land, because of concerns that falling debris could injure people on the ground. The Twitter account Flightradar24, which tracks air traffic internationally in real time, tweeted a picture showing an area off the coast of North Carolina and South Carolina that flights have been told to avoid without authorization to be there. Almost no flight was in the area based on the picture posted just after 2 p.m. Officials said balloon was traveling at about 60,000 feet above the ground, which is considerably higher than the roughly 40,000 feet maximum altitude that commercial airplanes fly at. The Chinese government has denied that the balloons purpose is surveillance, claiming that it is a weather balloon that went off course, and said it did not intend to violate any countrys sovereignty. U.S. officials have rejected this and have stood by their conclusion that the balloons purpose is surveillance. Updated at 3:37 p.m. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. By Kanishka Singh and Nandita Bose WASHINGTON (Reuters) - U.S. President Joe Biden's State of the Union address on Tuesday will feature a guest list that includes a man who disarmed a gunman who killed 11 people, a former Afghan ambassador, and the family of Tyre Nichols, who died after being beaten by Memphis police. Biden is expected to use the speech, which is delivered during a joint session of Congress, as an unofficial beginning of the 2024 presidential campaign season, laying out his policy priorities. Following are some of the guests expected to attend: * Brandon Tsay: Tsay was called a hero by authorities for disarming a gunman who shot dead 11 people during a celebration of the Lunar New Year in Monterey Park, California. His actions were praised for preventing further bloodshed. He was invited by U.S. Representative Judy Chu, a Democrat from California. * The mother of Tyre Nichols, RowVaughn Wells, and his stepfather, Rodney Wells. Nichols, a Black motorist, died after being beaten by police following a Jan. 7 traffic stop. Five Memphis police officers have been charged with his murder. The parents accepted an invitation this week from the Congressional Black Caucus chairman, U.S. Representative Steven Horsford, who is a Democrat and the White House. * The ambassador of Ukraine to the United States, Oksana Markarova, was invited by first lady Jill Biden. The White House called it a "recognition of sustained U.S. support for Ukraine nearly a year after Russia launched its unprovoked attack." * The White House has also invited Paul Pelosi, husband of former U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi. He was attacked by an intruder in their California home in October. "The attack reportedly was politically motivated, with the intruder's alleged intent to harm and kidnap the former Speaker," the White House said. * Pelosi invited former Capitol Police Sergeant Aquilino Gonell, who was honored by Biden last month for defending the Capitol during the deadly attack on the Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021. Story continues * Celebrities made the White House list with Bono, lead singer of Irish band U2, invited for his work to fight HIV/AIDS and poverty. * Missouri Democrat Cori Bush said she has invited Michael Brown Sr., the father of Michael Brown, whose 2014 shooting by a Ferguson police officer helped give birth to the Black Lives Matter movement. * Lillian Drummond, 101, may be the oldest guest, although she will attend via a Zoom link, said Illinois Democrat Danny Davis, who invited the longtime Chicago community activist and founder of the South Austin Coalition Community Council. * Former Afghan ambassador to the United States, Roya Rahmani. Afghanistan's first female ambassador to the United States held the post from December 2018 to July 2021. The United States completed the withdrawal of its forces from Afghanistan in August 2021 after a 20-year war. House of Representatives Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Michael McCaul invited Rahmani. McCaul, a Republican, said he hoped her presence "will send a signal to the women of Afghanistan that they have not been forgotten." * Representative Elise Stefanik, a Republican, announced her State of the Union guest would be Sheriff Jeffrey T. Smith of Fort Plain, New York. In a statement, Stefanik emphasized the issue of crime and criticized Biden's policies on law enforcement. * Senator Elizabeth Warren said she has invited Eugenie Ouedraogo, a nursing student and mother of three, to highlight the issue of affordable childcare. * Two Democratic House freshmen have invited parents of two victims of school shootings as their guests. Greg Casar, from Texas, and Maxwell Frost, a Democrat from Florida, will host Brett Cross, whose son, Uziyah Garcia, was one of the victims of a shooting last May in Uvalde, Texas, in which 19 children and two teachers were killed, and Manuel Oliver, the father of Joaquin Oliver, one of 17 victims of the 2018 shooting in Parkland, Fla., respectively. * Other guests of the White House include cancer survivor Darlene Gaffney; Amanda Zurawski who was unable to obtain abortion services due to Texas's abortion ban and Doug Griffin, who lost his 20-year-old daughter to a fentanyl overdose. (Reporting by Nandita Bose and Kanishka Singh in Washington; additional reporting by Andrea Shalal; Editing by Rosalba O'Brien, Bradley Perrett, Robert Birsel) A Pennsylvania family found shot dead in their backyard last week in what police say appears to be a suicide pact, included a mother and daughter who loved bowling and were devout Christian conservatives, people who knew them said. Morgan Daub, 26, and her parents, James Daub, 62, and Deborah Daub, 59, were found dead on the ground in the backyard of their home in York County, Pennsylvania, on the morning of Jan. 25, after police responded to a request for a welfare check from a neighbor. The West Manchester Township Police Department has since said that notes left inside the house indicate that the family recently made a "joint decision" to end their lives. Police believe Deborah Daub shot and killed her husband and then was shot and killed by Morgan, who died by suicide. Police said there were no signs of forced entry or struggle and no evidence that anyone else had been present. An investigation into the deaths has been closed. A photo which police say appears to show Morgan Daub (LionessArising / via YouTube) People who knew the family expressed shock and heartbreak at the deaths. Morgan was described by members of the local bowling community as a shy, quiet young woman who was close with her mother and also a talented and avid bowler until she and her mother suddenly stopped visiting bowling stores and alleys in the area a few years ago, around the start of the pandemic. Morgan didnt have a lot of words to say, said Bret Stabley, who operates the pro shop at Bowlers Supply in York, Pennsylvania, where the mother and daughter were longtime customers. Stabley said he believed Morgan, whom he described as very meek and quiet but also very bright, was homeschooled and her mother often spoke on her behalf. Stabley said he gave Morgan many bowling lessons over the years, and she became more sociable as she grew older. She was also quite a good bowler, he said. Stabley said the Christian, churchgoing family was never shy about letting anybody know what their beliefs were when it came to religion and politics. Morgan and Deborah very, very huge supporters of former President Donald Trump, Stabley said. Story continues They were just so hell-bent on Trump winning, like this could be in the end if he doesnt, Stabley said, referring to an instance when he saw them just before the 2020 election. He said he stopped seeing the two after that. A neighbor, who asked to remain anonymous for fear of personal or professional retaliation in their town, said the family had a "preoccupation with religion, especially on the dads part." The family's front yard was also "littered" with Pro-Trump political signs during the elections, and anti-abortion signs when Roe v. Wade was overturned, the neighbor said. Terry Miller, the owner of Suburban Bowlerama, said Morgan and Deborah came to his bowling center a couple of times a week. She grew up here, he said of Morgan. To me, just watching their interactions they just enjoyed it, they seemed to spend a lot of time together, he said. But Morgan and Deborah suddenly stopped coming by around 2019, Miller said. Looking back, he said, it was definitely, definitely weird that the two stopped coming in. Stabley said he was disturbed to see recent videos appearing to show Morgan on YouTube. In the videos, which the West Manchester Township Police Department has also said appear to show Morgan, the young woman speaks in stream-of-conscious fashion about God, the Antichrist and conspiracies about Trump and the 2020 election. Stabley said he is haunted by Morgans laughter in the videos. I never, ever, ever saw Morgan in that state, he said. Detective Timothy Fink said in a statement to NBC News on Friday that Deborah Daub left a written document, signed Jan. 19, in which she speaks of a joint decision by her and Morgan to end their lives. It refers to the "evil that has mounted against Morgan," but does not go into further detail, Fink said. A photo which police say appears to show Morgan Daub. (Suburban Bowlerama / via Facebook) Morgan and her father also left notes indicating that the family had planned how to carry out the shootings and made other preparations, including what to do with the family dog and assets. Those notes were dated Jan. 24, a day before the bodies of the family were found. Police said that the positioning of the bodies, the two guns found at scene, the shell casings and other evidence support the account put forward by the written documents left behind by the family, that all three family members decided to end their lives on 1/24/2023. Meanwhile, the neighbor said they are in "shock and disbelief" that something like this could happen "so close to home." "When I interacted with them in person, they kept it under wraps," the neighbor said. "I didnt see that break through the surface at all." If you or someone you know is in crisis, call 988 to reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. You can also call the network, previously known as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, at 800-273-8255, text HOME to 741741 or visit SpeakingOfSuicide.com/resources for additional resources. This article was originally published on NBCNews.com Dr. Anthony Fauci addresses an event at the White House to mark World AIDS Day on Dec. 1, 2010. (Getty Images) Theres no question that vaccines have become a divisive topic. Thanks to vaccine hesitancy, fueled in part by politicization of the COVID-19 vaccine, now even diseases once thought to be afflictions of the past, like polio and measles, are creeping back up in pockets of the U.S. But there is a vaccine, if ever discovered, that would be greeted with enthusiasm at least among those most at risk, according to Dr. Anthony Fauci, who until recently led the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID). If you told the general population, We now have an HIV vaccine. Get it, I don't think there would be a lot of big uptake in the general population. But if you went to the specific people who know that they were in a risk category and were going to continue to practice risk behavior, I think the enthusiasm for taking an HIV vaccine if we had a successful vaccine would be far different than the anti-vax approach that we're seeing now in the general population with other vaccines, Fauci said in a recent interview with Yahoo News. The mindset of the people who are at risk for HIV is a little bit different than the general population, and I think you have to factor that in, he said. Years before Fauci became the face of the nations COVID-19 vaccine initiative, he was best-known for his work during the HIV/AIDS crisis spearheading research for treatments since the early days of the discovery of the virus in 1981, when it began wreaking havoc in the gay community. Fauci once described the period before therapeutics were available as the dark years of my life and career, and told Yahoo News he had the experience, the privilege and the pain of for years taking care of persons with HIV who had almost a death sentence every time you had someone get infected. So I fully know what it means to have such a challenging and terrible situation of people getting infected with a virus that almost invariably leads to death. Story continues Scanning electromicrograph of an HIV-infected H9 T cell. (Image Point FR/NIH/NIAID/BSIP/Universal Images Group via Getty Images) Since the beginning of the epidemic, 84 million people worldwide have been infected with HIV and about 40 million people have died. Now, thanks to the development of antiretroviral therapies, HIV, in the U.S. at least, is no longer the death sentence it once was; and preventative measures like Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP), a once-daily pill regime, have dramatically reduced the risk of contracting HIV. In the U.S., 1.2 million people are currently living with the virus, with annual infections reduced by more than two-thirds since the height of the crisis in the mid-1980s. Yet despite the successes of the past few decades, a vaccine the holy grail of unaccomplished goals" remains elusive. Last month, experts in the so-far fruitless field of HIV vaccine research encountered yet another disappointment, when manufacturers of the only vaccine being tested in late-stage clinical trials announced they were shutting down the trial after it proved to be ineffective. Why did this latest HIV vaccine candidate fail? Known as Mosaico, the phase 3 clinical trial was launched in 2019 using an experimental vaccine regimen developed by Janssen Pharmaceuticals, a division of Johnson & Johnson, with funding from NIAID. The vaccine, which was tested in 3,900 volunteers across Europe, North America and South America, used a mosaic approach incorporating elements of multiple HIV subtypes with the goal of inducing immune responses against a wide variety of global HIV strains. Ultimately, the studys independent Data and Safety Monitoring Board concluded that while there were no safety issues with the vaccine, there was no difference in the number of HIV infections between those who received the vaccine and those who received a placebo. Fauci said he was disappointed but not thoroughly surprised by the result. A year and a half earlier, Janssen announced that a sister study known as Imbokodo had proven to be safe but ineffective at preventing HIV in women in sub-Saharan Africa which was an ominous sign to researchers that they were probably not going to see a dramatically different result in the Mosaico trial. [I] kind of had an inkling that there was probably not enough difference between the vaccine that was used in Mosaico than Imbokodo, so I wasn't surprised, Dr. Carl Dieffenbach, director of NIAIDs Division of AIDS, told Yahoo News. But it really says something about where we are in the vaccines field that this was the last remaining large clinical trial that we had going, and really is kind of a major disappointment. The Mosaico and Imbokodo trials were both building on the modest success of an HIV trial conducted in Thailand, the findings of which were published in 2009. That vaccine candidate was 31% effective at preventing HIV, which, while not enough to declare a victory, gave researchers enough incentive to move ahead with a similar strategy with a little bit of a different twist, Fauci said, using mosaic antigens to broaden the immune response in the Mosaico trial. But a key limitation of the Mosaico trial, Fauci and others said, is that it produced nonneutralizing antibodies instead of broadly neutralizing antibodies, or antibodies that originate from one virus but are capable of disabling another. Because the HIV virus is so variable, broadly neutralizing antibodies, researchers are realizing, will be crucial for an HIV vaccine to be successful. What makes HIV/AIDS such a formidable foe? Despite decades of effort, HIV continues to be one of the most challenging global health problems that we have been faced with in history, Fauci said. We've had 40 years of the HIV epidemic, and there really have only been about five strategies that have been tested in a clinical trial setting, Dr. Jessica Justman, an associate professor of epidemiology at Columbia University, told Yahoo News. So it just illustrates with numbers how much harder it has been to come up with strategies that might work. Part of what makes HIV so good at evading the immune system both the antibody side and the cellular side is that it mutates at such a high rate that the immune system doesnt have a chance to recognize it. We talk about the sub-variants of SARS-CoV-2 we had Alpha, we had Beta, we had Delta, and then we have Omicron. That amount of variation is quite small compared to the amount of variation within a single individual living with HIV, Dieffenbach said. HIV generates so much more variation than even coronavirus, and we've seen the havoc that coronavirus variation can have on us as a society. And unlike other viruses for which weve developed vaccines, HIV is unique in that no one has ever recovered from it. One of the very first things [HIV] does is it enters the group of cells in the body called CD4 cells and becomes part of that person's genome, basically, and the CD4 cells designed to 'rest.' And so it's living in you forever, at that point, Dieffenbach said. Once you're exposed to HIV and you become HIV positive, you have HIV for life. Not one single person has spontaneously eliminated HIV from their body by themselves. There's people that are walking around with very low viral load and things like that, but they still have HIV in their body. This is part of the reason, Justman said, why traditional vaccine methods, such as giving an attenuated version of a virus a technique successfully used against polio, for example don't work with HIV. It also means, Fauci and others have said, that in order to be effective, an HIV vaccine would need to work even better than natural immunity. A nurse prepares a trial dose of PrEPVacc to inject into a participant on March 17, 2022, in Masaka, Uganda. (Luke Dray/Getty Images) Whats next for HIV vaccine research? Even with preventative measures like PrEP available, experts say a vaccine is still crucial to ending the HIV/AIDS epidemic. The Food and Drug Administration has pointed out that a downside of the once-daily PrEP pill is that it requires high levels of adherence to be effective; in other words, people are human, and remembering to take a pill religiously every day can be difficult to commit to especially, the FDA says, among people dealing with substance use disorders, depression, poverty and those who may be trying to conceal their medication. The FDA announced the first injectable preventative treatment in 2021, but that also requires regular bimonthly trips to a health care provider. And despite advances in treatments that can prevent HIV and prolong the life of those infected, access still isnt equitable. Worldwide, many children, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, are left behind when it comes to life-saving therapeutics, with just half of children receiving the treatment that they need. And though the rate of new infections has gone down since the beginning of the epidemic, in the U.S., Black and Hispanic communities are still disproportionately affected by HIV compared to other ethnic and racial groups. If we could have a vaccine that worked like, say, a measles vaccine, where you get vaccinated once or maybe you need a short series in order to get lifetime immunity, and we gave that to young children imagine, Justman said. That would be just breathtaking. A lot of HIV research, Justman explained, laid the foundation for the SARS-CoV-2 vaccine. The mRNA strategy used to create the Pfizer and Moderna COVID-19 vaccines, for example, was of interest to HIV vaccine researchers long before COVID appeared; and now, researchers will be able to look at lessons learned from the COVID pandemic and apply them to the HIV virus. One of the great things that we learned from the COVID pandemic is how effective the mRNA nanoparticle delivery platforms that Pfizer BioNTech and Moderna used were in terms of making vaccines incredibly easily available, Dieffenbach said. In the HIV space, he said, they "have started using the mRNA delivery technology as a platform, which will give us greater ability to look at different types of vaccines and different variables and different strategies faster than we could in the past. Fauci testifies on Capitol Hill in March 2021 at a U.S. Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee hearing to examine the COVID-19 response. (Susan Walsh/Pool via Reuters) Early last year, the NIAID launched a small phase 1 trial of three mRNA HIV vaccines, which is expected to be completed by July. An African-led trial called PrEPVacc, still underway, combines PrEP with experimental HIV vaccines and is expected to conclude in 2024. However, PrEPVacc is not on a direct path to licensure, so even if it shows safety and efficacy, it would need to be confirmed by another trial or trials. Dieffenbach said that while hes not usually willing to speculate, it could be seven to 10 years before another HIV vaccine candidate is ready for late-stage phase 3 clinical trials. Still, Fauci and others say they arent giving up. I can't guarantee that we're going to have a vaccine, but I certainly think it's feasible, Fauci said. It's going to be a very formidable scientific challenge and scientific problem and scientific hurdle to overcome, but I don't give up on it. The fact that we don't have a safe and effective vaccine is obviously disappointing, but that doesn't mean you stop trying, he added. Because if we had stopped trying to get antiretroviral drugs back in the '80s and early-to-mid '90s, we wouldn't have had the resounding success that we have right now. So I don't get discouraged by my failures. I get more inspired to do more and to continue the fight, and to continue the efforts to get a success. Feb. 3A California man will spend more than three years in federal prison after New Hampshire authorities say he used pandemic funding to purchase luxury cars, jewelry, clothing and expensive meals. Pierre Rogers, 44 of Irvine, California, was convicted of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and bank fraud, according to a news release from the U.S. Attorney's office, which prosecuted the case. He was sentenced in U.S. District Court in Concord to 41 months in federal prison. Authorities say Rogers and a business partner applied for dozens of loans through the Paycheck Protection Program and Economic Injury Disaster Loan program, both of which were designed to be used for payroll and other business expenses. The pair submitted false applications that inflated their companies' revenues and number of employees, officials said, obtaining more than $800,000 in CARES Act funds. Officials say Rogers used the funds to buy a 2011 Rolls Royce Ghost for $107,780, and a Porsche for $56,000. He also spent the money on clothing and jewelry from luxury retailers such as Cartier and Bulgari, resort stays and expensive meals. "The CARES Act was passed during a particularly vulnerable moment in our history to help everyday Americans who were struggling to put food on the table," U.S. Attorney Jane Young said. "The defendant took advantage of the COVID crisis by spending fraudulently obtained taxpayer-backed funds on luxury items, while those who were truly entitled to the funds struggled to keep their businesses open and their employees paid." Rogers's business partner and co-defendant, Joshua Leavitt of Northwood, 40, pleaded guilty to bank and wire fraud last year, and is scheduled for sentencing next month. The term Florida-Friendly Landscape has been around for 30 years, but there is still some confusion over what such a landscape would look like. I would like to shed some light on why the Florida-Friendly Landscape program was created, the components of a Florida-friendly yard, and clues indicating when a yard is not Florida-friendly. The Florida-Friendly Landscape program was created to help residents utilize low-maintenance plants along with environmentally sustainable practices to conserve and protect Floridas water resources. Along with being attractive, a FFL saves time, energy and money, while protecting the environment and our natural resources. This program not only covers landscape design, but also explains how to properly install and maintain a healthy landscape. Attractive landscapes are a great way to add value to every community. FFL consists of the following nine principles: Right plant, right place Water efficiently Fertilize appropriately Mulch Attract wildlife Manage yard pests responsibly Recycle yard waste Reduce storm water runoff Protect the waterfront There are some obvious signs when a landscape would not be considered a Florida-Friendly Landscape, such as the presence of untrimmed plants, tall weeds and bare ground. I periodically receive calls asking if an FFL yard would protect them from code enforcement, which would be answered with a no, since every yard requires some maintenance. Florida gardening:Here's what to do in your Brevard yard and garden in February | Sally Scalera Flowers for your Florida yard:These winter flowers can take the cold in Central Florida | Sally Scalera If you are re-doing a section of your landscape or building a new home, a good design with proper plant selection will set you up for a successful outcome. The implementation of the first principle, right plant, right place, is where you can save yourself a lot of money and effort. First, observe the planting location and note the light conditions where the plants will be growing, especially how the light conditions change with the seasons. In addition to the light conditions, it is important to record the mature height and spread of each plant you are thinking of adding to your landscape. Note if there is a building or fence present, windows to take into consideration and powerlines overhead. Story continues Florida-Friendly Landscape practices can draw wildlife such as atala butterflies to your yard. If you have a bay window, why not choose a shrub or herbaceous perennial that has a mature height that will remain below the bottom of the window? After all, choosing a plant that wont require pruning will save you time and effort that can be used doing something else. It is easy to find information about a plants height, spread, light conditions, soil pH, soil moisture and salt spray tolerances by checking out our FFL Plant Guide at ffl.ifas.ufl.edu/plants. This website has a searchable database, so you can look for plants based on type, shape, flower color, light conditions or Florida native status, which is a list of 139 native plants for your zip code. Another option is to do an internet search of the plants name (a scientific name is much better to use than a common name) in the search bar, followed by ifas. For example, to find information on goldenrod, type in goldenrod ifas (or Solidago ifas). The results page could have a bulletin written by one of our specialists from the University of Florida, information from our Solutions for Your Life website, or information from one of our county Extension offices. When designing an area, use the mature spread of the plant for spacing purposes so that there is ample room for the young plants to grow and fill in the area. Since we are on the topic of Florida-Friendly Landscaping, there is a free FFL seminar scheduled for Saturday, March 25, at the Eau Gallie Convention Center. To discover the presentations scheduled and to register for this seminar, go to fflseminar2023.eventbrite.com. Also, beginning in April, there will be an eight-week FFL class series for anyone who wants to learn it all. For the class schedule and to see what topics will be covered, go to 2023fflclassseries.eventbrite.com. Our Florida-Friendly Landscaping Program office at the University of Florida has just launched the Florida-Friendly Pledge in conjunction with the yearlong 30th-anniversary celebration. This pledge can be taken by homeowner, those who maintain community landscape (HOAs, condo associations, etc.) and landscape professionals who support FFL, providing recognition and a chance to get on the map. Go to ffl.ifas.ufl.edu/about-ffl/ffl-30th-anniversary. Scroll down the page, and click on the link for the Florida-Friendly Landscaping pledge. On this page is a dashboard that shows the number of pledges in each county. There is also a map of the state showing the pledges. No personal information, including addresses, is made public. To complete the pledge, provide your name, address and email address. For everyone who makes the pledge, a follow-up survey will be sent to gauge your progress on upholding the pledge. This weekend is a great time to check out the Florida-Friendly Landscaping website and decide what practices you will adopt, sign up to take the pledge and help Floridas environment, beginning in your own yard. As I started writing this article, I checked the FFL Pledge dashboard and discovered that only 33 counties out of 67 (49%) have at least one pledge. I have signed up to take the pledge, so please join me, and lets see if we can get Brevard County on the pie chart, as a nice big slice. Sally Scalera is an urban horticulture agent and master gardener coordinator for the University of Floridas Institute of Food and Agriculture Sciences. Email her at sasc@ufl.edu. This article originally appeared on Florida Today: Take the pledge to adopt Florida-Friendly Landscape practices Greenpeace climate activists approaching Shell platform. Chris J Ratcliffe / Greenpeace Greenpeace activists used ropes to climb aboard a ship carrying a Shell oil platform. Four activists have been aboard the vessel in a protest against climate devastation for five days. This week, Shell announced a record $39.9 billion in profits made last year. Four environmental activists remain firmly planted on an oil platform belonging to Shell in the Atlantic Ocean after dramatic footage showed the protesters scaling earlier this week aboard. The video, released by Greenpeace on Tuesday, shows a tense moment where an activist is swinging from a rope above the ocean over the sound of gusts of wind and waves crashing. In the recording, someone is heard saying, "totally ok," as they ascended the White Marlin, a ship carrying Shell's oil and gas platform. The 400-foot platform is a "critical piece of equipment" for Shell that will enable the company to unlock eight new wells in the Penguins oil and gas field located in the North Sea by the Shetland Islands, according to the international environmental organization. On board, the four activists Carlos Marcelo Bariggi Amara from Argentina; Yakup Cetinkaya from Turkey; Imogen Michel from the UK, and Usnea Granger from the US displayed a banner that read "Stop Drilling. Start Paying" in a peaceful protest "against the climate devastation around the world caused by Shell and the wider fossil fuel industry." The four tracked the White Marlin as it sailed north of the Canary Islands aboard Greenpeace's Arctic Sunrise ship. They were accompanied by two other activists who were not able to clamber onto the ship. Yeb Sano, the executive director of Greenpeace Southeast Asia, failed to onboard but remains on the Arctic Sunrise which is following the White Marlin. Sano explained they were taking action because "when Shell extracts fossil fuels, it causes a ripple of death, destruction, and displacement around the world, having the worst impact on people who are least to blame for the climate crisis." Story continues "So we will take them on at sea, at shareholder meetings, in the courtroom, online, and at their headquarters. We won't stop until we get climate justice. We will make polluters pay," he added. As of Friday, the protestors were still on top of the platform and had "enough supplies of food, water, and all-weather equipment to keep them going for days," a Greenpeace spokesperson told Insider in an email. Climate activists on the Shell oil platform. Greenpeace The protest coincides with the energy giant announcing its highest-ever earnings on Thursday, with a reported profit of $39.9 billion in 2022, more than double the company's profits a year earlier. The profits come after a skyrocketing price of natural gas after Russia's invasion of Ukraine. A spokesperson from Shell said, "the new floating vessel will allow production from the Penguins field to continue to provide the necessary energy that the UK needs," the spokesperson said in an email to Insider. Projects like the Penguins oil field are "entirely consistent with a net zero pathway as modeled by the UK's independent Climate Change Committee," they added. The company said the protest was a safety concern, given the "number of people boarding a moving vessel in rough conditions." The activists, however, are experienced climbers who have "undergone thorough training to take part in this action," a Greenpeace spokesperson said, adding they take safety "very seriously." Research from the International Energy Agency said there should be "no investment in new fossil fuel supply projects" for a net-zero energy solution to be reached by 2050. Read the original article on Business Insider A former Georgia soldier has been sentenced to spend the rest of his life in prison after pleading guilty to stabbing a fellow soldier to death. Byron Booker, 29, pleaded guilty to silencing 21-year-old Army soldier Austin James Hawk at Fort Stewart in June 2020. [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] Booker admitted he and a fellow soldier, Jordan Brown, discussed killing Hawk in retaliation for Hawk reporting Brown to U.S. Army leadership for using marijuana. Byron Booker squandered his own military career by illegally using drugs, and then murdered a former fellow soldier in cold blood in retaliation for that soldier honorably performing his duties, said U.S. Attorney David Estes, a retired U.S. Army Colonel. TRENDING STORIES: According to court testimony and Bookers plea agreement, the former U.S. Army Sergeant slashed and stabbed Hawk repeatedly with a sharp-edged weapon. The medical examiner said Hawk had been stabbed and slashed 40 times. Many of those wounds would have been fatal on their own, the medical examiner testified. Brown is currently waiting to be sentenced after pleading guilty in December to assaulting a U.S. servicemember involving bodily injury and retaliation against a witness involving bodily injury. [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] IN OTHER NEWS: A former Fort Worth police officer was accused of excessive force and unlawful arrest in a lawsuit filed Friday. Jose Salazar, a 15-year veteran with the department assigned to the Dignitary Protection Unit, was off duty and working as a security officer at Texas Republic bar when he knocked a man unconscious, according to the lawsuit filed in U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Texas, Fort Worth Division. The suit also names SS Hospitality Group, which owns Texas Republic in the West 7th area, as a defendant, alleging the bar had negligent hiring practices. On July 22, 2022, at about 11 p.m., Salazar was working security at Texas Republic. Gustavo Santander was leaving Texas Republic with his wife and tried to walk down a set of stairs near the bar. According to the lawsuit, Santander had a verbal conversation with some of the Texas Republic staff, and they blocked Santander from going down the stairs. Santander turned to walk to a different set of stairs. According to the suit, Salazar suddenly and without provocation violently shoved Santander in the back and Santander fell face first onto the concrete. Santander stood back up and confronted Salazar. Salazar grabbed Santanders arm, the suit says, and tried to trip him. Salazar tried to take (Santander) down and punched Santander several times in the face and head, he said. According to the suit, Santander lost consciousness as he lay on the ground. As Santander regained consciousness, Salazar forced Santander into a sitting position and put Santander into handcuffs as another Fort Worth police officer came to assist with the arrest, according to the suit. Surveillance video of the encounter released by Fort Worth police shows Santander walking away from Salazar when Salazar shoved him, sending him to the ground. Santander stands up, turns around, and appears to strike Salazar before the two end up exchanging blows outside Shot Cellar on Foch Street, next to Texas Republic. It appears in the video that Salazar hits Santander multiple times in the head before Santander falls to the ground and Salazar begins putting him in handcuffs as another officer runs up to the scene. Story continues Salazar had Santander arrested on a charge of public intoxication. According to the lawsuit, Santander had not had any alcohol that night. Santander spent the night in jail. The charges were later dismissed. Santander filed an internal affairs complaint with Fort Worth police against Salazar. Police began a use-of-force review and found the video of the incident, which the department said contradicted what Salazar told investigators about what happened. Salazar was placed on restrictive duty and stripped of all police powers immediately as the internal affairs unit began an investigation into his use of force, according to a police department news release. Salazars supervisors determined Salazar had falsified Santanders arrest affidavit and used excessive force. On Jan. 13, Fort Worth police issued a press release saying Santander had been fired. The lawsuit also alleges Texas Republic failed to investigate, screen, properly train or supervise Salazar in his role as a security officer. In the suit against Salazar and SS Hospitality Group, Santander is seeking unspecified compensatory and punitive damages. Four Massachusetts teens are facing a variety of charges after leading police on a chase from Randolph to Braintree in a stolen car on Friday, according to authorities. Randolph police said the car was taken from a parking lot at 27 Warren Street at approximately 2:20 p.m. Officers said they attempted a traffic stop a short time later, but the 17-year-old driver put the vehicle into reverse and hit a police cruiser. The officer was not injured. Two 16-year-olds and another 17-year-old who were also in the car got out and fled on foot into a nearby neighborhood, according to the statement. Police said the driver fled to Braintree, where he was arrested after the car crashed near Braintree High. The passengers two 16-year-olds and a 17-year-old were also located and arrested by police, according to the statement. Police did not identify the suspects due to their ages. No injuries were reported. The 17-year-old driver was charged with receiving a stolen motor vehicle, failure to stop for police, operating on a suspended license, reckless operation, and leaving the scene of a property damage accident. The passengers were charged with receiving a stolen motor vehicle. The 17-year-old passenger was also charged with carrying a dangerous weapon (a switchblade knife). All four were booked by Randolph Police and are expected to be arraigned in Quincy Juvenile Court at a later date. This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available. Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW The US Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is reportedly preparing an antitrust lawsuit against Amazon. The potential legal action, first reported in the Wall Street Journal, is expected to target a wide array of the e-commerce giants business practices. The FTC has been in the process of investigating Amazon since the Trump administration, scrutinizing accusations that the retailer prioritizes its own products over those of third-party sellers. Read more In the last year, Amazon has been the target of a number of competition regulators around the world. It recently settled three major antitrust investigations in the European Union by changing how it collects user data, and by adjusting its requirements for seller inclusion in its Prime service. FTC chair Lina Khan is known as an aggressive antitrust reformer, specifically with major tech companies. As a law student, she published a widely shared essay called Amazons Antitrust Paradox, arguing that Amazons ability to use its size to undercut competitors prices does not justify its monopolistic practices, even if that means providing the lowest cost to the consumer. Her nomination was aggressively opposed by the company, which filed a petition seeking her recusal from any investigation involving Amazon. Amazons market dominance by the numbers: 25%: Amazons marketplace accounts for a quarter of all internet sales in America. It would take combining the online sales of Walmart, eBay, Apple, Home Depot, and Target to equal its size. 81.4 million subscriptions: Nearly two-thirds of all US households have an Amazon Prime membership. 88%: Thats the percentage of Amazon customers who start their shopping on amazon.comas opposed to a search engine or third-party websitegiving Amazon full control over their shopping experience. Judge rules that Amazon illegally intimidated striking workers Meanwhile, a federal judge who hears cases for the US National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) ruled on Jan. 31 that Amazon supervisors had illegally threatened to withhold wages and benefits if workers at two Staten Island warehouses voted to unionize. Story continues The judge also found that the company had illegally removed posts from a digital message board that were attempting to share information about unionization. The ruling dismissed a number of additional accusations submitted by NLRB prosecutors. While there was no fine, the judge ordered Amazon to stop engaging in unfair labor practices and to post public notices that it would cease any further union intimidation. Last month, regulators from the Labor Departments Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) fined Amazon for exposing its workers to unsafe conditions at three warehouses in Florida, New York, and Illinois. Related stories: Federal inspectors fine Amazon $60,269 for putting workers at risk The ongoing big tech antitrust cases to watch in 2023 Jeff Bezos plan to give away his fortune wont help the 10,000 workers Amazon is planning to lay off More from Quartz Sign up for Quartz's Newsletter. For the latest news, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Click here to read the full article. KYIV, Ukraine (AP) A funeral for a Belarusian military volunteer and activist who died fighting on the frontlines in eastern Ukraine was held in Kyiv on Saturday. Eduard Lobov was killed in fierce artillery battles in Vuhledar against Russian troops as part of a small but dynamic regiment of Belarusian dissidents fighting alongside the Ukrainian armed forces. His body will be taken to Warsaw for burial. Russian troops have ramped up attacks in the east of Ukraine, particularly in the industrial towns of Bakhmut and Vuhledar. Moscow has said its main goal is to capture the eastern Donetsk province which it considers a part of Russia. Lobov is the latest casualty of the Kalinowsky Regiment, the unit named after a prominent Belarusian revolutionary who initiated an uprising against imperial Russia in the late 1800s. Volunteers oppose Belarusian authoritarian leader Alexander Lukashenko, a close ally of Russia. They believe Ukraines victory over Russia will spur regime change in Minsk. This is a very special regiment, consisting only of Belarusians. This is not their country, this is not their nation, but its their war, said Bohdan Yaremenko, a lawmaker in Ukraines parliament who attended the funeral. I am here as a sign of my support, and of my solidarity from my heart to theirs. Olena Kharkhel, held a portrait of Lobov in the church as his comrades paid their last respects. Her husband, also a Belarusian dissident, died fighting in the east with the regiment in June. He and Lobov had been good friends. By fighting against Russia, we can liberate Belarus from Lukashenkos regime, she said. One by one, the volunteers walked to Lobovs coffin, draped with the Belarusian flag to pay their last respects in Kyivs Cathedral of St. Alexander. Most covered their faces to conceal their identities. Lobov served four years of jail time for acts of disobedience in his native Belarus in 2010. Following his release in 2014 he fled to Ukraine and joined the armed forces as a military volunteer. Belarusians make up a prominent contingent of foreign fighters in Ukraine. Russias invasion of Ukraine propelled them to mobilize. The regiment itself was formalized in March 2022 and has been active in numerous key battles from the early days of the war, including in Mykolaiv, Kherson and the defense of Bucha and Irpin. Lobov participated in the latter. We can say he spent his entire life defending high ideals and sacrificing for others, said friend and fellow volunteer Jan Melnikov. sperm photo (CTV Network) A gay man is taking the federal government to court, challenging the constitutionality of a policy restricting gay and bisexual men from donating to sperm banks in Canada, CTV News has learned. "[It's] like you're undesirable because of your gayness as a donor It feels like such an arbitrary rule," said Aziz M, the man who is pushing to change the rules. Out of concern for his privacy, CTV News has agreed not to use his full name. Currently, a Health Canada directive prohibits gay and bisexual men from donating sperm to a sperm bank unless they've been abstinent for three months or are donating to someone they know. Under the "Safety of Sperm and Ova Regulation," sperm banks operating in Canada must deem these prospective donors "unsuitable," despite all donations being subject to screening, testing and a six-month quarantine before they can be used. It's a blanket policy that the Toronto man bringing the lawsuit says makes him feel like a "second-class citizen," because it stops any gay or bisexual man who is sexually active from donating, even if they are in a long-term monogamous relationship. "Why I decided to take this to court is because of that feeling of discrimination, said Aziz. Aziz and his lawyers are challenging the directive filed with the Superior Court of Ontario in January on the basis that it violates the right to equality in the Charter of Rights and Freedoms. This case is seeking to strike out the provision in the policy that specifically applies to men who have sex with men, according to the application commencing litigation. The case has caught the attention and has the financial backing of Canada's Court Challenges Program, an independent organization that supports individuals bringing cases related to constitutional rights that are of national significance. The filing alleges that the current policy "perpetuates stereotypical attitudes and prejudices against gay and bisexual men, including false assumptions about their health, their sexual practices, and their worthiness to participate in child conception." Story continues While the directive does not mention transgender or non-binary donors, the policy also applies to individuals who may not identify as male but would be categorized as men under the directive. In an interview with CTV News, Gregory Ko, co-council on the case, said the policy goes to the heart of the many barriers that exists for LGBTQ2S+ Canadians looking to have children. "It is not uncommon for a lot of gay and lesbian couples to rely on sperm donors within the community, and this directive explicitly puts a barrier, in addition to all the other barriers that exist for queer families, in having children," Ko said. MAN FIGHTING POLICY HAS DONATED BEFORE In Canada, there are two streams for sperm donation. One involves sperm donations made to a sperm bank for general use, which is considered the "regular process." The other is known as the "direct donation process" and involves sperm donations between a donor to a recipient who are known to one another. In these cases, sexually active gay and bisexual men can donate so long as the recipient signs a waiver. This case focuses on the first stream. Aziz is uniquely positioned in bringing this constitutional challenge, as prior to coming out as a gay man, he donated to a sperm bank in Toronto several times between 2014 and 2015 without issue. After undergoing the rigorous screening and testing that donors in Canada are subject to under the Assisted Human Reproduction Act, which includes pre- and post-donation infectious disease testing, his sperm was made available to the public. As a result, a lesbian couple was able to have a daughter, whose life Aziz now plays a role in. "We go out [to] museums and parks, and we play. There's a lot of joy, a lot of meaning in it," he said. "We're kind of navigating this family-like relationship, and what do we call each other?" Because he found this past donation a meaningful experience, he encouraged his friends to donate, only to realize that their donations wouldn't be accepted. "It made them feel bad, and it made me feel embarrassed as well," he said. Aziz said his motivation in bringing this case is that he wants to be able to donate again, a desire compounded by his awareness of this country's donor shortage. "I would be really happy and honoured if this makes things move along and makes people recognize the equality between everybody, regardless of their gender identity or sexual orientation," he said. MINISTER HAS POWER TO CHANGE: LAWYER The lawsuit argues that the federal health minister has the power to issue a directive to change the policy as it applies to men who have sex with men, just as the Liberal government did a few years ago. The government brought forward the current policy in 2019 requiring gay and bisexual men to observe a three-month deferral period before being able to donate and it came into effect in February 2020. This change was a marked update from what had been a lifetime ban dating back decades stemming from concerns over HIV transmission. "Our view is that the minister of health has discretion to amend this directive. It is a directive that comes from the minister's office and from the ministry of health itself. And so, barring some internal processes, our view is that this is a policy that can be amended swiftly," Ko said. Ko, who is a partner at law firm Kastner Lam LLP and previously was involved in a case challenging the now-eliminated federal blood ban, says the sperm donation policy echoes the language used by Health Canada that long prohibited men who have sex with men from donating blood. After years of successive updates, in April 2022 Health Canada approved the Canadian Blood Services submission to eradicate what was then a three-month deferral period. This allowed the national blood donation organization to begin using a behaviour-based screening system for all donors, where risk factors are screened on an individual basis, regardless of gender or sexuality. This new policy came into effect across most of the country in September 2022, and Hema-Quebec followed suit in December 2022. 'INDEFENSIBLE BASED ON THE STATE OF THE SCIENCE' What is different about sperm donation, Ko says, is that there is no third party, such as Canadian Blood Services, involved that the federal government could point to and say that it has limited authority to rescind the policy or intervene. That was an approach the Liberals took during the blood donation saga. "We sincerely believe that the courts will agree that this is a clear breach of the right to equality and is an indefensible based on the state of the science," Ko said. President of the Canadian Fertility and Andrology Society Dr. Sony Sierra says that while the risk of transmission is "very small" given the screening and universal precautions in place, a risk still exists. "It can be taken as stigmatizing. It is, but we have to also understand that our concern also involves the intended recipient, and therefore that intended recipient needs to be cared for and counselled regarding all risk. And that's our intention in practicing in accordance with these guidelines," Sierra said. "As our science improves with respect to transmission and actual risk as opposed to theoretical risk, I would hope that those guidelines become even more inclusive." Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and his government faced considerable pressure from the LGBTQ2S+ community after pledging for years to end the blood ban. When it was lifted, he cheered the end of what he said was a "discriminatory and wrong" policy. The New Democrats say the federal government has failed to follow up on the lifting of the blood ban with similar changes to the regulations for sperm donation. "There's never been any science behind the ban on gay men donating sperm, none whatsoever People tell me they're working on it, but they've been telling me they've been working on this for over five years," said NDP MP Randall Garrison, the party's critic for justice and LGBTQ2S+ rights. "It's this case in the queer community that we've always had to fight for our rights. We've never had anything handed to us on a platter," Garrison said. "It's just disappointing at this day and age that the government doesn't recognize their need to act." Asked to respond to the court challenge, Health Minister Jean-Yves Duclos declined to comment. Justice Minister David Lametti's office directed CTV News to the justice department, which directed questions to Health Canada. In a statement to CTV News, the federal health agency said that it is committed to non-discriminatory policies, pointing to the direct donation process it said was " specifically created" with the LGTBQ2S+ community in mind. Tammy Jarbeau, senior media relations adviser for Health Canada, told CTV News that the purpose of the restrictions are to "reduce the risks to human health and safety," and that that the current sperm donor screening criteria was informed by the available scientific and epidemiological data, as well as national standards. Health Canada said it will look to ensure the regulations continue to reflect the latest advances in science and technology, and given the recent changes to the screening criteria for blood donors, it "will explore whether similar updates may be appropriate" in the context of sperm donation. "Health Canada is aware that an application has been filed and is currently reviewing the application," said Jarbeau, adding that the agencys response will be provided in the course of the litigation. We cannot comment further at this time." ctvnews.caproducers@bellmedia.ca The-CNN-Wire & 2023 Cable News Network, Inc., a Warner Bros. Discovery Company. All rights reserved. (With files from CTV National News producer Rachel Hanes) A ninth-grade high school student is facing criminal charges after an altercation with a teacher left her with a broken leg in Rockdale, Georgia. The post Georgia Student Faces Criminal Charges In Viral Attack That Left Teacher With A Broken Leg appeared first on Blavity. Hoe trim at my school man pic.twitter.com/QWwCNWsmUL BigJerm (@trendingjerm) January 26, 2023 According to WSBTV, on Jan. 27, the altercation took place at Heritage High School during a ninth-grade class. The fight was caught on camera by a student in the class and quickly went viral once it was posted. In the clip, you can see and hear the student yelling at the teacher for talking to her rudely. Despite the teacher asking for help from other staff members to remove the student, the student continued to tussle out of the teachers restraint. Once out of the teachers grasp, the student began to swing at the teacher until the two fell on the floor. According to WSBTV, the unidentified teacher is recovering from a broken leg. The altercation video was played for other parents at Heritage High School who were displeased with both parties. Oh my God, punching her. Ok, is that girl in jail? one parent asked. Another parent questions why students in the classroom allowed things to go this far. All these other kids, they shouldve gotten up and done something, she said. I mean why do you let them treat a teacher that way? Unidentified Students inside the classroom spoke with WSBTV about the incident claiming it was scary to witness but the teacher allegedly rudely speaks to them. Story continues It wasnt scary, it was shocking, he said. Shes a pretty good teacher, but how she talks, she talks with aggression. How she talks to kids is not a proper way to talk to them. What I think the problem is, is the teachers are not taking a class on how to deal with children, his mother said. You have to learn de-escalation techniques to help those kids versus aggravating a situation. Rockdale School administrators responded to the altercation via an online statement. The statement claims an investigation is still pending and violence against staff will not be tolerated. Rockdale County Public Schools is investigating an incident where a student allegedly attacked a teacher during class today. RCPS does not tolerate student violence towards any staff members. Students who harm other students or staff will be disciplined according to our Student Discipline Code of Conduct and will be appropriately charged by law enforcement, the statement explained. The ninth-grader was taken to the Juvenile Detention Center following the altercations. According to TheShadeRoom, the student will be suspended from school as well. BERLIN (Reuters) - Germany has collected evidence of war crimes in Ukraine, the country's prosecutor general said in a newspaper interview published on Saturday, adding that he saw a need for a judicial process at international level. "Currently, for example, we are focusing on the mass killings in Bucha or attacks against Ukrainian civilian infrastructure," Peter Frank told the Welt am Sonntag newspaper. So far, prosecutors have pieces of evidence in the "three-digit range", he added, without elaborating. Ukraine and its Western allies have accused Russian forces of committing atrocities in Bucha, a satellite town of Kyiv, soon after launching their invasion last February. Moscow has denied the charge. Russia has also targeted key infrastructure in Ukraine but denies deliberately targeting civilians. Germany began collecting evidence in March 2022 to prosecute possible war crimes, including by interviewing Ukrainian refugees and evaluating publicly available information, Frank said, adding that German prosecutors were not yet investigating specific individuals. "We are preparing ourselves for a possible later court case - be it with us in Germany, be it with our foreign partners, be it before an international court," he added. Asked who should be tried, Frank said Russian state leaders and those implementing decisions at the highest military level should be held accountable. Ukraine is pushing for the creation of a special tribunal to prosecute Russian military and political leaders it holds responsible for starting the war. The International Criminal Court has launched its own investigation into alleged crimes against humanity and war crimes days after Moscow's Feb. 24 invasion, but it does not have jurisdiction to prosecute aggression in Ukraine. European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen, who is visiting Kyiv, said on Thursday that an international centre for the prosecution of the crime of aggression in Ukraine would be set up in The Hague. Moscow has rejected allegations by Kyiv and Western nations of war crimes. The Kremlin has said it launched a "special military operation" to protect its own security. (Writing by Rachel More; Editing by Gareth Jones) Correction: Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand last won reelection in 2018. A previous version of this article included incorrect information. Progressives are looking at New York as a way to make the Senate map more left-wing. They see Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), whos up for reelection in 2024, as a tempting primary target in a state that sent several squad members to the House and which some Democrats concede is in need of a party rebranding. On the surface, the Empire State seems ripe for an insurgent win. New York progressives in urban areas have been successful in recent years at ousting longtime establishment House Democrats, including former Reps. Eliot Engel (D-N.Y.) and Joe Crowley (D-N.Y.), making it part of a mecca for grassroots activity, candidate recruitment and liberal energy. But Gillibrands deep roots could prove hard to penetrate, challenging the assumption that a hypothetical primary rival would pose an immediate threat. I would be shocked if it came to pass for Sen. Gillibrand, said Jon Reinish, a former aide to the senator. She has a really progressive voting record and on the issues that shes best known for, theyre beloved by the Democratic base. Among the states high-profile talent, none has garnered more attention than Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.) The progressive congresswoman, who ousted Crowley in 2018, seems poised to rise from the House to the Senate if she wants to. Some have even speculated that she could run for the White House if President Biden decided not to seek a second term. While that rumor swirled for a little while, much of the more serious speculation centered around whether she would challenge Senate Majority Leader Charles Schumer (D-N.Y.) in 2022 and instigate what would be a power clash of prominent Democrats from different sides of the partys spectrum. As November came and went, however, she turned that down, instead sailing to reelection to a third House term and causing Democrats to ask about her plans for 2024. Story continues People all over want her to run she is like our generations JFK, said Ryan Adams, a progressive strategist who also worked with New York-based squad member Rep. Jamaal Bowman (D-N.Y.). Adams suggested the real question is which cycle she will choose to run in, not whether she has the desire to. Possible, yes, very, he said about the idea that she may run for the Senate. To me, it almost feels inevitable. But in politics, timing is everything. I dont know about this cycle, Adams said. How best could her political capital be used in the next two years? What is she trying to get done in Congress? Will a big loud fight pull resources from other places that will need it in 2024? Gillibrand, on the other hand, is all in. First elected to the House in 2006, defeating three-term GOP Rep. John Sweeney in the states 20th Congressional District, she has moved relatively quickly up the electoral ladder, often tweaking her platforms and positions to address voters changing needs. She then represented a conservative, rural, white, sprawling upstate district, Reinish said about her time in the House. She very quickly pivoted to representing the entire state, so those are many different constituencies. Gillibrand, who took over Hillary Clintons Senate seat, won her reelection campaign in 2018. She made a name in Congress running on a pro-woman platform, championing some of the biggest fights around reforms for handling sexual assault in the military and as a staunch advocate of paid family leave. Last month, she formally stated she would run again in 2024, sending out an email fundraising blast alerting supporters of her intention. Almost immediately, there were questions in some Democratic circles about whether Gillibrand would face a challenger. Publicly, she is keeping her powder dry. She told local station News12 in Westchester, I dont believe I will have a primary. While many believe Ocasio-Cortez would be the most likely and certainly biggest ticket name to mount a possible challenge from the left, others could also emerge as dark horse contenders. Former Rep. Mondaire Jones (D-N.Y.) was considered one of progressives top rising stars during his brief time in Congress. While in office, the young, Black and openly gay lawmaker often pushed the administration in front of the national spotlight, particularly around voting rights. Dealt an unfortunate hand when his district was redrawn in the gerrymandering process, hes now a CNN commentator and could decide to primary Gillibrand as a Hail Mary pass at another term in office. Other Democrats have laid to rest speculation they will challenge her. Rep. Ritchie Torres (D-N.Y.) told The New York Times emphatically last week that he was not considering a primary against Gillibrand. Additionally, the publication reported that he recently gave $10,000 to her reelection campaign. I dont think there is a lot of appetite to primary the senator, said Camille Rivera, a New York-based Democratic strategist whos worked with a variety of progressives. She may not be totally left-left, but she fights for the issues that really matter. In the Senate, Gillibrand has worked to advance Bidens agenda after her brief stint competing against him for the presidential nomination in 2020. She failed to catch on nationally but managed to amass smaller pockets of loyal supporters in key early voting states like New Hampshire and Iowa. While statewide Democrats tend to have a natural advantage given its blue lean, former Rep. Lee Zeldins (R-N.Y.) better-than-expected performance against Gov. Kathy Hochul (D) in last years gubernatorial race put Democrats on notice. Hochul defeated Zeldin by roughly 6 points. As the unofficial campaign season gets underway, rumblings around a potential match-up between Gillibrand and Zeldin have been growing. He may not be victorious but he can definitely be formidable, Rivera said. His numbers were way too close for comfort. Everything is on the table, she said. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Girls5Eva is an underrated gem has enough energy and emotion to fill stadiums (Heidi Gutman/Peacock) What happens to a one-hit-wonder girlband when their allocated 15 minutes of fame comes to an abrupt end, and theyre no longer the hottest young things in coordinated but subtly different outfits? Its a question answered in all-singing, all-dancing style by effervescent sitcom Girls5eva, which debuted on US streamer Peacock in 2021 but is now finally available to stream on Netflix, where a third season will arrive later this year. Created by Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt writer Meredith Scardino and exec-produced by Tina Fey, this underrated gem has enough energy and emotion to fill stadiums, and more Nineties-style pop treats than an ancient Now Thats What I Call Music disc. Its This Is Spinal Tap for turn-of-the-millennium girl groups, turning the synths up to 11. Wickie, Dawn, Summer, Gloria and Ashley make up Girls5eva, a Spice Girls knock-off who peaked in the late Nineties. The bands name and many of their lyrics stem from that eras philosophy of why use a word when you could use a number? (see also: Boyz II Men, 2 Become 1). As we learn in their biggest hit Famous 5eva, which doubles up as the shows theme song, theyre Girls5eva because 4evas too short to capture a) their era-defining fame and b) their ever-lasting friendship. Sadly, real life is rarely as simple as song words. Twenty years later, the group is barely a footnote in pop culture history, and the now fortysomething girls arent exactly living the dream. Dawn (Sara Bareilles) is assistant manager at her familys Italian restaurant, where her brother is her boss. Gloria (Paula Pell) is a dentist and one half of the first gay couple to divorce in the state of New York. Summer (Busy Phillips) formed a Christian pop duo, singing pro-purity anthems like Cant Wait 2 Wait with husband Kev (Andrew Rannells in a blonde wig, looking like an off-brand Ken doll), but now spends her days unsuccessfully auditioning for Real Housewives franchises. Wickie (Hamilton star Renee Elise Goldsberry) fakes a private jet lifestyle for Instagram. And tragically, five has become four, after Ashley (Ashley Park) died in a freak infinity pool accident. Story continues When rapper Lil Stinker samples a hook from Famous 5eva on his new track, though, their fortunes change. The quartet reunite as a nostalgia act on The Jimmy Fallon Show and decide to grab their second shot at relevance with both hands. Soon theyre performing at derelict malls, blagging their way onto the bill at the Jingle Ball and dealing with recurrent knee injuries triggered by ill-advised death drops. Eventually, its time to engage album mode which, as perma-OTT resident diva Wickie puts it, is a state of mind that started when our [record] deal was announced and ends when I am at the Met Gala in a catheter because my dress is too complicated. They soon discover, of course, that its much easier to keep reaching for pop stardom when youre naive twentysomethings who dont have to worry about joint pain, mortgages and biological clocks. The latter concern plays out in one of the shows brilliant genre-hopping songs, written by Scardino and composer Jeff Richmond, who is married to Fey and has written songs for 30 Rock, Kimmy Schmidt and Mean Girls: The Musical. As Dawn frets that her son will never have siblings if the band hits the big time again, the Simon & Garfunkel parody New York Lonely Boy strikes up in the background, affectionately skewering the niche phenomenon of Manhattans super-sophisticated, hyper-articulate, only children (sample lyric: Forget the Power Rangers/ He prefers small talk with strangers). A musical comeback makes for great TV, a cocktail of bruised egos, long-simmering resentments, dormant camaraderie and, of course, assembly-line pop bangers. Just look at Bross After The Screaming Stops documentary, which melded the Goss brothers preparations for their O2 Arena reunion show with philosophical musings on conkers, Stevie Wonder and the letters H. O. M. E.. Or, on the other end of the spectrum, ITV2s Big Reunion reality format, which brought groups like Atomic Kitten and 5ive back for a UK tour, and later threw together Gareth Gates, Dane Bowers, Kavana, Adam Rickitt and Kenzie from Blazin Squad in the Mizz magazine supergroup of dreams. Girls5eva plays out like an even funnier fictional version. It is, as Richmond put it in an interview with Slate, a love letter to the era of team-driven pop music, when everybody was allowed to have their turn and sing their verse, and their verses come from their character The sassy one, the hot one, the sporty one. You get the impression that Summer was very much the groups Victoria Beckham: her remit, we learn, was to end songs with a sultry femi-nasty phrase rather than do too much vocal heavy lifting. Busy Philipps, Renee Elise Goldsberry, Sara Bareilles and Paula Pell in Girls5Eva' (Zach Dilgard/Peacock) But although theres plenty of room for nostalgia, Scardinos show also sharply satirises the grim misogyny of the Nineties pop machine. Their creepy manager Larry locked them into a contract that gave them zero freedom and almost no royalties. They were leered at by talk show hosts. Lets talk about your music career are you a virgin? asks one presenter in a flashback segment that echoes similar clips from the documentary Framing Britney Spears. And their songs were exclusively written by older men, resulting in some seriously questionable (but somehow weirdly believable) lyrics in songs like Jailbait (Great at Sex But Its Our First Time) and Dream Girlfriends. Weve got the kind of birth control that goes in your arm, the group trills in the latter, Tell me again why Tarantinos a genius. Even in the present day, things arent much better. When the group visit Swedish songwriting guru Alf Musik (a cameo from a practically unrecognisable Stephen Colbert) he presents them with two potential hits. One is an identikit bop called Side Pieces for Life, the other is Invisible Woman, a spooky track he composes after being haunted by their sad existence. Eventually, all four women get to sing songs that better reflect their messy, resilient, endearing selves, culminating in Bend Not Break, a track thats ostensibly about Glorias knee surgery but also an ode to sticking together and supporting each other. Everyone loves an underdog story, and these obstacles just make you root for Girls5eva and their tentative assault on the music industry all the more. The punchlines land especially hard if you grew up over-identifying with one particular Spice Girl, or trying to learn complex choreography in front of the telly. Girls5evas new home on Netflix will hopefully win over legions of new members for the groups fan club. So, in the words of the girls themselves, What are you waiting five? Girls5Eva is available now on Netflix Welcome to The Hills Sustainability newsletter. A friend forward this newsletter to you? Subscribe here. Today well get ahead of the extreme cold thats overtaking the northeastern U.S. and also look at House Republicans new move to combat environment-minded investing. Plus: Chess players face off with air pollution. But first: How global first prices dropped in January. Close Thank you for signing up! Subscribe to more newsletters here The latest in politics and policy. Direct to your inbox. Sign up for the Equilibrium newsletter UN food agency reports January drop in global prices Food prices in January dropped worldwide for the 10th consecutive month, the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) announced on Friday. Price indices for vegetable oils, dairy products and sugar fueled last months decline, the U.N. food agency stated, while releasing new reports on food product forecasts. The FAOs Food Price Index dropped 17.9 percent below its all-time high achieved in March 2022 after Russias invasion of Ukraine, according to the agency. This downward trend was fueled in part by an agreement signed in the summer to enable Ukrainian grain exports amid the ongoing war, the FAO explained. Some highlights: Sugar dropped 1.1 percent from December, marking the first decline after two consecutive months of sharp increases. Dairy fell 1.4 percent, reaching its lowest level in a year, largely spurred by lower prices of butter and milk powders worldwide. Vegetable oil plunged 2.9 percent from December to January or 25 percent below its levels a year ago. The FAO also raised its forecast for global cereal production, while warning that supplies are still likely to tighten this year. Looking ahead to 2023, early indications point to likely area expansions for winter wheat cropping in the northern hemisphere, especially in the United States, the agency stated. The FAO attributed that expansion to elevated wheat prices but cautioned that high fertilizer costs could negatively impact yield. Story continues New England bundles up for historic Arctic front New England is bracing for monumental cold this weekend as a severe Arctic front rolls in this weekend, our colleague Julia Shapero reported for The Hill. This is an epic, generational Arctic outbreak, a branch of the National Weather Service (NWS) in Caribou, Maine, said, according to CNN. Fears of frostbite: The cold blast is expected to bring wind chills of minus 50 degrees Fahrenheit and colder, according to the NWSs Weather Prediction Center. The NWS Caribou branch warned on Twitter that frostbite on bare skin can occur in just two to five minutes in such conditions. Temperatures 15 to 35 degrees below average in the upper Midwest and Northeast. Record-setting cold: Wind chills this weekend could approach record-low levels, with cold temperatures already settling in Friday morning in parts of New England, Axios reported. Wind chill warnings are in effect in areas of New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, Maine, Massachusetts, Connecticut and Rhode Island. As of mid-afternoon Friday, a wind chill of minus 50 degrees Fahrenheit had already been recorded in northern Maine. Why is it so frigid? The extreme cold is a result of a weather system known as a tropospheric polar vortex, according to Axios. This pocket of extreme cold will rotate south from Hudson Bay and will be escorted by snow squalls and heavy winds. New York City, Philadelphia and Washington, D.C., will avoid the worst of storm system but will still likely be unusually cold through Saturday. House GOP forms group to challenge ESG investing House Republicans on Friday announced they are launching a working group to combat environmental, social and governance (ESG) investing, our colleague Rachel Frazin reported for The Hill. GOP vs rogue regulators: A House Financial Services Committee press release said the group would battle what it deemed a threat to our capital markets. Rep. Bill Huizenga (R-Mich.) will helm the group. Members will seek to develop a comprehensive approach to ESG and hold Bidens rogue regulators accountable, said Financial Services Committee Chairman Patrick McHenry (R-N.C.). Whats at issue? ESG investing is a broad characterization of attempts to invest ethically. Such investing can include actions by the government, investment firms, banks and individuals. Huizenga specifically called out a proposal from the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) that would require companies to disclose contributions to climate change. Why is Huizenga against the SEC proposal? Both these rules and ESG in general have received significant opposition from Republicans, Frazin noted. GOP politicians have raised concerns about associated impacts on the fossil fuel industry. Republicans have also voiced fears that ESG could drive managers to choose social issues over profits for their clients. SEC MAY BE EASING UP CLIMATE-DISCLOSURE RULES The SEC may be weighing the idea of easing its proposed climate-disclosure rules following pushback from investors, The Wall Street Journal reported. The regulator is reevaluating the financial reporting parts of the plan, which would require companies to disclose costs related to global warming, people close to the agency told the newspaper. Will disclosure be scrapped entirely? The final version of the SEC rules will likely still require some such disclosures in financial statements, the Journal reported. Nonetheless, the SEC is considering making these mandates less burdensome than initially proposed, according to the report. One such change could involve increasing the threshold at which firms must divulge climate costs. The final version of the SEC rules is expected to be released this year. Climate change put into Harvard Medical curriculum Harvard Medical School will now be including climate change in its curriculum, affirming a student-led campaign on environmental health, The Harvard Crimson reported. Unanimous approval: The Harvard Medical School Educational Policy and Curriculum Committee voted unanimously last month to officially integrate climate change and health into the official curriculum, according to the Crimson. Championing the effort was Gaurab Basu, who will direct the new program, and a cohort of students from Harvards Students for Environmental Awareness in Medicine organization, the Crimson reported. Whats in the new curriculum? The program will explore the impact of climate change on health and health inequality, according to the Crimson. The curriculum will also look at how these effects apply to clinic care and the role of health care providers in solving climate issues. Faculty members and course directors will be integrating climate-related issues into existing lectures, without adding new courses, the Boston Globe reported. Disproportionate impacts: Basu, the new curriculum director, stressed that the effects of climate change on health equity must be taught and understood. People are not impacted equally by climate change, and whats hard about it is that the wealthy countries disproportionately cause the problem, Basu, who is also an instructor in medicine, said in a statement. Climate change is a manifestation of how we havent built things with health and equity in mind, he added. How does Harvard compare to other schools? The percentage of medical schools integrating the health impacts of climate change has doubled over the past three years, the Globe reported. That percentage surged from 27 percent in 2019 to 55 percent in 2022, according to the Association of American Medical Colleges. Scientists have credited student-led efforts as one of the primary inspirations for this shift. MIT researchers call checkmate on air pollution Chess player performance declines considerably when more particulate matter is polluting the air, a recent study has found. Harnessing a chess engine: When contending with such conditions, players tend to make more suboptimal moves, according to the study, published this week in Management Science. The researchers explored both the probability of making an error and the magnitude of that error the likelihood that the mistake is meaningful. An artificial intelligence-based chess engine deemed such errors to be meaningful if they weakened a players chances of winning. What did the chess engine reveal? We find that when individuals are exposed to higher levels of air pollution, they make more mistakes, and they make larger mistakes, co-author Juan Palacios, an economist at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, said in a statement. A bit of pollution goes a long way: With just a modest rise in pollution levels, the researchers saw that a players probability of making an error increased by 2.1 percentage points. The magnitude of those errors rose by 10.8 percent. Cleaner air, they determined, helps sharpen thinking and clear brain space. Worse air quality means worse play: When air pollution levels climbed further, chess players performed even more poorly when under time constrains. A particular tournament included in the study required 40 moves to be made in 110 minutes. For moves 31 through 40, an air pollution increase of 10 micrograms per cubic meter led to an increased probability of error of 3.2 percent. Meanwhile, the magnitude of those errors surged by 17.3 percent. Space to breathe and time to think: Against comparable opponents in the same tournament round, being exposed to different levels of air quality makes a difference for move quality and decision quality, Palacios said. The MIT economist also emphasized the dual dangers of air pollution and time pressure. In such cases, players cannot compensate for lower cognitive performance with greater deliberation, he explained. Follow-up Friday In which we revisit some issues weve covered this week. Treasury broadens definition of SUVs that qualify for EV tax credit California districts with higher rates of electric vehicle (EV) adoption are seeing improvements in public health. On Friday, the Treasury Department expanded the definition of electric SUVs to include Teslas Model Y, the Volkswagen ID.4 and GMs Cadillac Lyriq making these crossovers eligible for a $7,500 tax credit under a $80,000 price cap for SUVs, our colleague Zack Budryk reported. Biden administration to settle tribal water rights claims California released a proposal for allocating Colorado River water earlier this week a day after nearby states issued a plan of their own. The Biden administration has announced that it will distribute $580 million to 15 Native American tribes toward settling historic water rights claims, Budryk reported. Chinas air quality improvements spilling over into South Korea Chinas clean heating policies may have saved thousands of lives, researchers revealed this week. The countrys pollution policies have improved air quality so much that benefits may now be spilling over into neighboring South Korea, according to the Energy Policy Institute at the University of Chicago. Note: This newsletter will transition to a weekly publication schedule next week. You can expect it in your inbox every Wednesday. We believe this new format will help us bring you more hard-hitting work and reporting on a variety of sustainability issues. As always, you can keep tabs on our work throughout the week by visiting the sustainability section of The Hill or our individual author pages (Sauls and Sharons). Have a good weekend and well see you next week! For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. By Jarrett Renshaw PHILADELPHIA (Reuters) -The Democratic National Committee on Saturday approved President Joe Biden's shakeup of the party's 2024 primary calendar, giving Black voters a greater say in the nominating process and carving an easier path for Biden's expected re-election bid. The party's vote on Saturday replaces the famed Iowa caucuses as the first in the nation with South Carolina, a state with significantly more Black voters and one that saved Biden's 2020 presidential campaign. It would be followed by New Hampshire and Nevada one week later, and then by primaries in Georgia and Michigan. The promotion of South Carolina and Georgia reflects a demographic balancing decades in the making for the Democratic Party at the expense of two largely white states that rejected Biden in 2020. It also underscores the growing power of the racially diverse coalition that helped bring Biden to power. "The Democratic party looks like America, so does this proposal," said Jaime Harrison, chair of the Democratic National Committee. The move faced opposition from leaders in Iowa and New Hampshire, who are being pushed down the nominating calendar and vowed to defy the new schedule and hold elections on their own schedule. Any change to those calendars would require support from Republicans who control government and oppose the move. Iowa and New Hampshire have kicked off the nominating season for decades and the process - in which candidates campaign for months in coffee shops and homes - has become a cherished part of their social and political identities. Iowa and New Hampshire face penalties if they end up disobeying the party, such as banning candidates from campaigning in the state or losing delegates. Officials warned on Saturday that could hurt Biden's chances to win those states in 2024. In Georgia, Democrats want to move up the calendar, but Republicans in the state who control government are opposed to the shift. Story continues Georgia and New Hampshire have until June to comply with the new calendar, but few expect that to happen. "We can vote on this calendar, we can approve this calendar, but we will leave here with absolutely nothing settled," said Scott Brennan, a former party chair in Iowa. The conference underscored Biden's tightening grip on a party that was openly skeptical of his viability and concerned about his age heading into November's midterm elections, only to see Democrats significantly outperform expectations and reset the narrative. Already the oldest person to take on the role of president, Biden would be 82 if sworn in for a second term. Biden's primary calendar saw overwhelming approval through a voice vote and party committee members appeared enthusiastic for a Biden re-election when he addressed the crowd in Philadelphia on Friday. "Let me ask you a simple question: Are you with me?" Biden asked the crowd of party faithful, to cheers and a chorus of "four more years." (Reporting by Jarrett Renshaw and Diane Bartz; Editing by Daniel Wallis) Greenhill (NYSE:GHL) Full Year 2022 Results Key Financial Results Revenue: US$243.0m (down 20% from FY 2021). Net income: US$3.27m (down 92% from FY 2021). Profit margin: 1.3% (down from 14% in FY 2021). The decrease in margin was driven by lower revenue. EPS: US$0.18 (down from US$2.21 in FY 2021). All figures shown in the chart above are for the trailing 12 month (TTM) period Greenhill Revenues and Earnings Miss Expectations Revenue missed analyst estimates by 3.0%. Earnings per share (EPS) also missed analyst estimates by 55%. Looking ahead, revenue is forecast to grow 14% p.a. on average during the next 2 years, compared to a 8.4% growth forecast for the Capital Markets industry in the US. Performance of the American Capital Markets industry. The company's shares are up 2.4% from a week ago. Risk Analysis It's necessary to consider the ever-present spectre of investment risk. We've identified 3 warning signs with Greenhill (at least 1 which is a bit unpleasant), and understanding them should be part of your investment process. Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned. Join A Paid User Research Session Youll receive a US$30 Amazon Gift card for 1 hour of your time while helping us build better investing tools for the individual investors like yourself. Sign up here NoSystem images / iStock.com Tax season is here, and with Tax Day set for April 18, 2023, you might be starting to gather paperwork. By law, 1099 forms for independent contractors need to be mailed or distributed electronically by January 31. Explore: Lack of Stimulus Not Only Reason for Smaller Tax Returns Find: 3 Ways Smart People Save Money When Filing Their Taxes Similarly, 1099-K forms showing earned interest and other income, along with W-2 forms, must be in taxpayers hands by January 31 either delivered via mail or distributed electronically. Dont Panic Such guidance doesnt mean every company adheres to the deadlines or that forms arent lost in the mail or held up by email filters. If you havent received your form, first check your other or spam folders. Then, check in with the company that paid you in 2022 and see if they sent the form. A friendly reminder can go a long way in fixing an oversight and preserving the business relationship. Also, remember that the deadline of January 31 is the date 1099 forms must be mailed, not necessarily received. On the other hand, W-2 or 1099-R forms must be made available to the taxpayer by January 31. In either case, make allowances for postal delays and give it a few more days before you panic. If you havent received your 1099 or W-2 form by the end of February, the IRS says you can report the oversight by calling 800-829-1040. Youll need to provide your name, address, phone number, taxpayer identification number and dates of the work, along with the payers name, address and phone number. The IRS can send you a Substitute for Form W-2 or Form 1099-R, which is a Form 4852, so that you can file your taxes. Youll need to estimate your income or wages on Form 4852. If the 1099-R or W-2 arrives after youve filed and the information is different, you will need to file Form 1040-X, an Amended U.S. Individual Income Tax Return. Make Requesting Substitute Forms a Last Resort However, requesting a substitute form should be a last resort. Your employer will face fines of up to $30 for every late W-2 form that is less than 30 days late, and $100 per late form that is submitted beyond 30 days. Total penalties may not exceed $250,000 for forms less than 30 days late, and $1.5 million for forms that are more than 30 days late. You should definitely get in touch with your employers accounting department or human resources department before requesting a form 4852, especially if you are still working for the company. Story continues For 1099 independent contractors, you can report the income without a 1099 or a substitute form. Contractors dont have to submit 1099 forms to the IRS. They are just meant for your records to confirm the income you received. Again, if your 1099 arrives and the amount is different than your estimates, you can file an amended return using Form 1040-X. If your client never filed the 1099 form, you will not get in trouble for reporting (and paying taxes on) more income than was reflected on your 1099s. You will pay taxes on that income just like any other earned income. If you arent sure how much income you earned from your job or contract position, you can check your bank statements for deposits, look at pay stubs, or request a transcript from the IRS. Before you report an employer or client to the IRS for failing to send your 1099 form, you may want to keep in mind that hefty fees are tied to missing IRS deadlines for these forms. Large businesses that dont file a 1099 may incur penalties starting at $50 per statement, up to $3.3 million total. If the IRS proves the company intentionally disregarded the 1099, it could face penalties of $550 per instance with no limit. Teens & Taxes: Does Your Teen Need To File Taxes for Their Part-time Job? Know: AARP Offers Free Tax Prep Assistance What Documents Youll Need Theres a lot at stake for reporting someone for failing to send your 1099. And independent contractors arent protected by the same laws that protect employees from being fired without due cause in some states. A company can simply stop working with an independent contractor at any time. Bottom line: Dont leave it to your employers or clients to track your income. Keep records of your income and expenses throughout the year to make tax time easier. More From GOBankingRates This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: Tax Advice: What Steps Should You Take if You Didnt Receive a W-2 or 1099? State police have charged the driver they say caused a head-on crash Friday night near Newport that left a 6-year-old dead and four others injured, including a newborn baby. Ariel Williams, a 19-year-old from Wilmington, has been charged with vehicular homicide, along with a number of additional felonies, including driving under the influence. Police said a 29-year-old woman was driving east in the left lane of West Newport Pike at 8:54 p.m. Friday when her 2016 Toyota Corolla collided with a 2006 white Buick Rendezvous. The Buick, driven by Williams, was heading west and crossed over into oncoming traffic, where it hit the Corolla head-on, according to police. The Toyota, which had a 6-year-old girl and 4-year-old boy inside, rotated in a clockwise direction after impact, police said. It came to final rest in the left lane of Route 4, according to a news release. The 29-year-old driver of the Toyota was eight months pregnant, police said, and she was taken to a local hospital, where the baby was delivered. They both are in critical condition, according to police. MORE TO READ:Man injured after overturning vehicle, crashing through home in Milton area Saturday The 6-year-old girl and 4-year-old boy were also taken to a local hospital. The boy had non-life-threatening injuries, however, 6-year-old Milani Carrasco, who police identified Sunday, died at the hospital, according to a news release. Police said Williams, the driver of the Buick was properly restrained and taken to a local hospital for non-life-threatening injuries. MORE TO READ:57-year-old man killed in crash near Polly Drummond Shopping Center Friday night Williams, who was charged with vehicular homicide, reckless endangering, one count of first-degree vehicular assault, two counts of second-degree vehicular assault, driving under the influence of the combination of alcohol and any drug, failure to remain within a single lane and drive in the proper lane and direction, remains at Baylor Womens Correctional Institution on a $63,000 cash bond. Story continues Troopers ask anyone who witnessed this crash to contact Sgt. J. Jefferson by calling 302-365-8484. Information may also be provided by sending a Private Facebook Message to the Delaware State Police or contacting Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-847-3333. Contact local reporter Cameron Goodnight at cgoodnight@delawareonline.com, or by calling or texting 302-324-2208. Follow him on Twitter at @CamGoodnight. This article originally appeared on Delaware News Journal: Delaware police charge driver in head-on crash that killed child Some residents of a north Fulton neighborhood say theyre being overrun with deer. They told Channel 2s Bryan Mims that the deer are eating plants and have made themselves too much at home in the Martins Landing subdivision in Roswell. They just multiplied, and they just love it here because everybody puts in some really good plants, especially hostas, said Ray Bernier, who has lived along Pond Way for more than 30 years. He said when he moved here, the deer werent nearly as profuse as they are now. The deer have not only eaten all his hosta plants, they ate a wreath that he had hanging in his backyard. They decided to help themselves to it, he said. [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] A couple of houses away, Andrew Michael said a deer once gave birth in his fenced backyard. It hopped the fence and nested in our backyard, he said. And weve got a little pond in the backyard, so I guess it was a perfect spot to have a baby. Kaitlin Goode, the urban wildlife program manager for the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, said the best way to control the neighborhoods deer population is to hunt them. Its the number one tool for managing deer herds, she said. TRENDING STORIES: Georgia allows bow hunting for deer in residential areas with permission from the property owners. Roswell also allows deer hunting with a permit. The property manager of Martins Landing told Mims there are no plans to allow hunting in the community. Goode said, aside from hunting, homeowners can plant deer-tolerant plants to discourage deer from browsing on their property. She said deer thrive in suburban areas because of the lack of hunters and the abundance of food. Shrubs and flowers in neighborhoods provide a buffet for deer. Story continues Bernier said he tries to keep the deer away by planting vegetation the deer dont like to eat. Theyre nice and all that, but if they didnt eat all my plants that would be good, he said. I wouldnt mind as much. [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] IN OTHER NEWS: A club co-owner is identified as the man who was shot and killed outside of Republic Lounge Saturday morning, the Fulton County Medical Examiners Office told Channel 2 Action News. Atlanta Police said officers received reports of a shooting at 6:55 a.m. at the Republic Lounge on Brady Avenue. [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] When officers arrived, they found Michael Gidewon, who had been shot. He was pronounced dead at the scene. A witness told Channel 2s Justin Carter that he was leaving the nightclub when he saw someone get kicked out. The witness described the individual as looking very drunk and carrying a gun. TRENDING STORIES: A Republic Lounge security guard told Carter that the individual and the club manager got into a fight, resulting in the manager being shot. The investigation remains ongoing. [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] IN OTHER NEWS: WASHINGTON House Judiciary Committee Chair Jim Jordan, R-Ohio, issued subpoenas Friday to the heads of the Justice Department, FBI and Department of Education seeking documents related to local school board meetings. The subpoenas which Jordan noted are his first as chairman sent to the Biden administration require Attorney General Merrick Garland, FBI Director Christopher Wray and Education Secretary Miguel Cardona to turn over all documents on the topic by March 1. "Since October 2021, Judiciary Committee Republicans have sent over one hundred letters to Biden Administration officials requesting answers about how the Administration used federal counterterrorism resources against American parents," Jordan's office said Friday. Jordan, who also chairs a new subcommittee on the "Weaponization of the Federal Government," said whistleblowers have claimed that the FBI's counterterrorism and criminal divisions "created a specific threat tag for school board-related threats and even opened investigations into parents simply for speaking out on behalf of their children." Republicans outlined those claims in a November report on the "politicization" of the DOJ and FBI. School board meetings across the country have intensified and grown violent in recent years, especially since the Covid pandemic began. In October, a man was recorded on video saying LGBTQ people deserve death during a school board meeting in Arkansas where several anti-LGBTQ policies were passed. In January 2022, a Virginia woman was charged after she appeared to threaten school board officials while they met to vote on whether to lift a mask requirement. Garland formed a task force in October 2021 to address the increased threats, saying in a memorandum that there had been a disturbing spike in harassment, intimidation and threats of violence against school administrators, board members, teachers and staff who participate in the vital work of running our nations public schools. Story continues The subpoena sent to Garland requests documents and communications, for example, between DOJ employees and U.S. intelligence agencies "referring or relating to alleged threats posed by concerned parents at local school board meetings." It also calls on him to provide records related to the creation of the DOJ's task force to address violent threats against school officials and teachers. Wray's subpoena asks for documents related to meetings held with U.S. Attorney's offices that pertained to the task force, and also requests documents and communications related to the threat tag. Cardona was asked to supply documents related to a letter sent by the National School Board Association in September 2021 to President Joe Biden requesting assistance to keep school board meetings safe. "As these acts of malice, violence and threats against public school officials have increased, the classification of these heinous actions could be the equivalent to a form of domestic terrorism and hate crimes," the letter said. An FBI spokesperson responded to Jordan's subpoenas Friday afternoon, saying in a statement: As Director Wray and other FBI officials have stated clearly on numerous occasions before Congress and elsewhere, the FBI has never been in the business of investigating speech or policing speech at school board meetings or anywhere else, and we never will be." "We are fully committed to preserving and protecting First Amendment rights including the right to free speech. Attempts to further any political narrative will not change those facts," the spokesperson said, adding that the FBI "is actively working to respond to congressional requests for information including voluntary production of documents. The Justice Department acknowledged receipt of the subpoena but had no further comment. A spokesperson for the Education Department said in a statement that the department "responded to Chairman Jordans letter earlier this week," before the subpoena was issued, and that it "remains committed to responding to the House Judiciary Committees requests in a manner consistent with longstanding Executive Branch policy." Stacey Plaskett, a non-voting delegate to the House of Representatives from the U.S. Virgin Islands who serves as the top Democrat on Jordan's weaponization panel, trashed Jordan and Republicans in a statement Friday in response to the subpoenas. "The conspiracy theories underpinning todays subpoenas have been debunked with facts time and time again, but Republicans do not want to be bothered by this inconvenient truth. There is no amount of documents that will satisfy the MAGA obsession with conspiracies," she said. "While I am disappointed that Republicans have resorted to this type of aggressive arm-twisting and performative politics, I am confident that what they have asked for will once again disprove this tired right-wing theory." This article was originally published on NBCNews.com A political committee, funded in part by Senate President Don Harmons campaign that helped expand the Democratic majority on the Illinois Supreme Court, failed to file timely campaign reports as required by state law and didnt disclose the bulk of its $7.3 million in spending until after the election. The committee All for Justice spent heavily on television ads in support of winning Democratic Justices Elizabeth Rochford and Mary Kay OBrien. The commercials painted Republican opponents as virulent anti-abortion candidates, politically potent attacks given the U.S. Supreme Court decision that sent the issue of abortion rights to the states only months earlier. The failure of All for Justice to follow the disclosure guidelines mandated by state election law obscured its pro-Democratic spending in the critical months preceding the November races in which the partisan balance of the Illinois Supreme Court was up for grabs. Its amazing, said Kent Redfield, an Illinois campaign finance expert and professor emeritus of political science at the University of Illinois at Springfield. It denied the public, the news media and the people who participated in the campaigns full knowledge of whats going on. By not following the disclosure rules, the spending by All for Justice which represented a quarter of the more than $23 million spent overall on the two Supreme Court races and nearly 40% of the money behind the Democratic candidates went undisclosed until months after the election. All for Justice was formed in August 2022 as an independent expenditure political action committee, which can raise and spend unlimited amounts of money to support or oppose candidates but cannot coordinate its spending with the contenders it backs. Because it began spending money on Sept. 29, within 60 days of the Nov. 8 election, All for Justice was required to file detailed public reports within two days for each expenditure of $1,000 or more that it made on behalf of Rochford and OBrien or against Republican opponents Mark Curran and Michael Burke. Instead, they filed nothing. Story continues While the public and opponents saw the groups TV ads, the lack of timely spending reports meant no one knew how much it kept spending to advocate for the two Democrats or to oppose the two Republicans. In contrast, independent expenditure groups that funded the Republican candidates filed the required ongoing spending reports. Although All for Justice did not file timely expenditure reports, it did file the mandated timely reports on money it was taking in from contributors, indicating an awareness of the states campaign finance laws. The stringent public filing rule is an essential requirement of the state campaign finance law that is designed to give voters, watchdogs and opponents a full understanding of how and where independent expenditure groups are spending their money. This is the heart of campaign disclosure, said Redfield, who helped shape the law now in place. We try to make it transparent so that people, when people are voting, they know whos supporting a candidate, and they can take that into account. All for Justice also failed to file detailed spending reports as part of a state law that requires campaign committees report financial statements at the end of each quarter of the calendar year. And with its first expenditure of over $100,000, it technically should have filed a statement on Sept. 29 that its spending exceeded campaign limits though the spending of the candidates and other committees had lifted contribution caps in both races. In general, the timely filing of the two-day expenditure reports by independent expenditure committees is also important for determining whether outside spending in aggregate exceeds campaign limits, which then would allow all candidates and committees to raise and spend unlimited amounts of money, said Matt Dietrich, a spokesman for the Illinois State Board of Elections. I am shocked by that, said former state Sen. John Millner, chairman for the losing GOP campaign of then-Justice Michael Burke. He tried to do everything by the rules and then you hear this, Millner said. I dont quite understand it. Had the All for Justice spending been made known on time, Millner said, the Burke campaign would have made the public aware of the extra money being poured into Democratic campaigns and that probably would have generated more GOP volunteers and contributions. On documents filed with the State Board of Elections, Luke Casson is listed as chair and treasurer of All for Justice. Casson is a founding partner of the Andreou & Casson law firm. In addition, on his LinkedIn profile, Casson lists himself as counsel for the office of the president of the Illinois Senate, who is Harmon. He also lists himself as political director of the Democratic Party of Oak Park, which is Harmons political base as Oak Park Township Democratic committeeperson on the state Democratic Party Central Committee. Neither Casson nor any other representatives of All for Justice immediately responded to requests for comment. Harmon has played a leading role in the passage of laws aimed at prohibiting major state contractors from making political donations and establishing campaign contribution limits. A spokesman for Harmon said Casson often acts as an outside legal counsel for the Senate presidents office and is not a state employee. And in a statement, Harmon, who was a donor but not an officer of the All for Justice PAC, made no reference to his professional or political relationship with Casson. Everybody is supposed to follow the rules, the Senate president said. If something isnt disclosed in a timely manner, it should be corrected immediately. And if the Board of Elections needs new tools to make sure this happens more intuitively and more timely, I am happy to work with them to achieve the shared goal of meaningful campaign finance transparency. Failure to comply with the campaign disclosure rules is punishable by fines of up to $3,000 for each violation after three instances where the law was not followed. There were 35 instances that the group failed to file the state required two-day spending report. Levying fines is subject to a decision by the eight members of the elections board four Democrats and four Republicans that can act on its own or based on the filing of a campaign finance complaint. All for Justice filed quarterly reports on what it raised and spent, but because the filing of the report covering Oct. 1 through Dec. 31, 2022, was not required until Jan. 17, it wasnt until more than two months after the election that the group publicly disclosed spending nearly $6 million of its nearly $7.5 million in total expenditures. And even then, it did not list which candidates it spent money on to benefit from the work of specific vendors, such as those involved in nearly $6.3 million in TV ads and nearly $800,000 in mailers, as required by law. Election authorities, alerted to the transparency issue by Redfield and the Tribune, contacted representatives of All for Justice by phone and it filed amended quarterly reports providing the required detailed expenditure information late Tuesday weeks after Rochford and OBrien were sworn in. Wins by their Republican opponents would have flipped the partisan balance from a 4-3 Democratic majority to a 4-3 Republican edge. But Rochford, a Lake County judge, beat Curran, a former Lake County sheriff, with a healthy 55.2% of the vote. By a slimmer margin, OBrien, an appellate court justice, defeated Burke, a sitting Supreme Court justice who had been appointed to fill a vacancy, with only 51.1% of the vote. The victories gave Democrats a 5-2 edge on the court. The Rochford and OBrien wins also were aided by the legislatures Democratic majority, which redrew the geographic boundaries of court districts outside Cook County to favor their candidates. Harmon was one of the major givers to All for Justice, with $500,000 from his personal campaign fund and another $200,000 from his Illinois Senate Democratic Fund. The Harmon-backed donations were part of nearly $1.1 million in contributions from Democratic politicians, including $75,000 from Rep. Jay Hoffman of Swansea and five senators who gave $50,000 each. Another nearly $3.4 million came in to All for Justice from organized labor groups, while lawyers, law firms and related entities provided more than $2.3 million to the group. Overall, All for Justice spent about $7.3 million in the Supreme Court races $3.7 million on behalf of Rochford and more than $3.6 million on behalf of OBrien, according to new election reports. All four Democrats and Republicans vying for the two Supreme Court seats, which come with 10-year terms, benefited from independent expenditures, but only All for Justice appeared to break disclosure rules, Redfield said. Republicans, for example, benefited from the independent expenditures of Citizens for Judicial Fairness, which received millions of dollars from Citadel CEO Ken Griffin and spent $4.6 million in the Burke race against OBrien and $730,933 on the Curran contest, records showed. People Who Play by the Rules PAC, an independent expenditure committee funded heavily by Uline products billionaire Richard Uihlein, also spent more than $230,000 on both the Curran and Burke races. Personal PAC Independent Committee, an abortion rights group, spent more than $940,000 on behalf of each of the two Democrats, Rochford and OBrien, and Everytown for Gun Safety Illinois also independently spent about $125,000 on behalf of each of the two winners. When all individual candidate and independent spending is tallied together, however, the All for Justice spending made a significant difference. The total of all pro-Rochford spending amounted to nearly $8.8 million compared with Currans $1.7 million, showing that the All for Justice money only enhanced Rochfords already sizable lead in all dollars spent to support her. But in the other, more closely contested race, the All for Justice money shifted the overall spending advantage from Burke to OBrien. Counting the All for Justice money, the pro-OBrien spending from all sources tallied $6.8 million more than $1 million than the pro-Burke money spent. The All for Justice spending activity fits into concerns often raised by the Brennan Center for Justice at the New York University School of Law. State and federal disclosure laws are very bad and very easily manipulated when it comes to timing by these groups, said Douglas Keith, a Brennan Center attorney specializing in judicial elections and spending. Any group thats getting involved in a state Supreme Court election to the tune of seven figures is a very sophisticated political actor, and they know how to maneuver around these laws to hide whatever it is they want to hide, Keith said. While the group faces a potential of thousands of dollars in fines, the board lacks an enforcement mechanism unlike political candidates who cannot appear on a ballot unless fines are paid. Redfield also said any penalty would be little more than a slap on the wrist compared to the political impact of failing to timely report its spending in the closing weeks of the election. I certainly hope there will be a bipartisan effort to tighten up the law so there wont be a repeat of this, Redfield said. rlong@chicagotribune.com rap30@aol.com Health inspectors discovered a huge rodent infestation at Ranna Indian restaurant in north east London. (Waltham Forest Council/SWNS) Shocking photos show inside an Indian takeaway that was ordered to close after health inspectors discovered a huge rodent infestation. The owners of Ranna Indian restaurant in Walthamstow, north east London, were told to pay 1,096 in costs when they appeared before the courts over the hygiene breach. An inspection of the restaurant had been carried out by Environmental Health Officers on 25 January, following a customer complaint. Council workers found evidence of a "significant rodent infestation" at the eatery, including mouse droppings where food was prepared, according to Waltham Forest Council. Read more: Inside Chinese takeaway that was such a health risk it was shut down immediately Mouse droppings were found where food was prepared. (Waltham Forest Council/SWNS) The proprietor - registered to an address in the Isle of Dogs, east London, under the name Saar Takeaway Limited - was ordered to pay the council costs of 1,096. At Thames Magistrates Court, magistrates confirmed the closure of the takeaway and issued a Hygiene Emergency Prohibition Order (HEPO). Mouse droppings were found throughout the building - including over food preparation and storage areas, the council said. Clumps of dirt and grease were also discovered - indicating a lack of any food safety management plan, the authority said. Read more: Detectorists strike gold as hoard of medieval coins worth 150,000 is declared treasure An inspection of the restaurant was carried out following a customer complaint. (Waltham Forest Council/SWNS) The company has since carried out a big clean-up, as well as doing repairs and pest control measures. The restaurant will stay closed until a follow-up inspection confirms the infestation has been eradicated. Cllr Khevyn Limbajee, cabinet member for community safety at Waltham Forest Council, said after the hearing: "I shudder to think how long this risk to public health might have remained were it not for the swift and decisive actions of Council Environmental Health Officers. "Rather than just a means of punishment, I hope this closure order sets the proprietors on the right course towards improving their health and safety practices permanently and restoring the confidence of their customers as well as the council." The North Carolina Firefighter Cancer Alliance (NCFCA) has announced three new initiatives to bring awareness to cancer in firefighters. The programs were revealed at the NC Mid-Winter Chiefs Conference at the Concord Convention Center on Feb. 2. The new initiatives include a new grant program for cancer screening, enhanced emotional support for firefighters diagnosed with cancer, and a resource information tool kit. ALSO READ: Video shows apparent Chinese surveillance balloon flying over Charlotte area Saturday The Blue Ridge Firefighter Wellness Grant was founded in honor of several fire departments in the Western part of the state who have been hit hard by the occupational cancer epidemic. Departments like Asheville Fire have lost four active-duty firefighters in the last five years along with several others who passed away early in their retirements. Concord Fire Marshal and NCFCA Director Travis McGaha, referred to fire service as a brotherhood and noted the ripple effect felt by multiple departments when one of their own falls. The fire service is a brotherhood, said McGaha, When one firefighter suffers, we all suffer. Seeing our brothers and sisters in the mountains hurting spurred us to create this fund in their honor. The grant honors the western regional Line of Duty Deaths, but all state departments are welcome to apply to offset the costs of cancer screening. An Asheville firefighter will be running for 24 hours straight in the spring to raise money for the new grant, other N.C. firefighters will join him to honor those who lost their lives. ALSO READ: VIDEO: Viewmont Elementary students wish luck to alumni Eagles player before Superbowl The Alliance announced a new collaboration with the First Responder Peer Support Network (FRPSN) giving state firefighters access to qualified peer support who have had their own personal experience with cancer. This will help the alliance provide support not only to the firefighter but to their families and departments as well, with a 24-hour FRPSN crisis hotline. Story continues The final initiative introduced was the Resource Information Toolkit (RIT) Pack, a thumb drive filled with resources for those who have just received a cancer diagnosis. The first 24 hours after a cancer diagnosis can feel like a hurricane, where a firefighters brain spins with questions about what to do next, McGaha said. We have cancer survivors on our Board who told us exactly what a firefighter needs to know immediately upon hearing the words, You have cancer. The toolkit includes information on how to apply for the states supplemental insurance program and emotional support resources. For more information about NCFCA and its resources, please click here. (WATCH BELOW: Viewmont Elementary students send alumni Eagles player video wishing luck before Superbowl) Armie Hammer. Getty Images Since January 2021, actor Armie Hammer has been accused of sexual violence and cannibalism. After investigating Hammer, TMZ reported the LAPD closed the case without pressing charges. Hammer addressed the allegations and his downfall in a new interview with Air Mail Saturday. Armie Hammer has been the subject of intense scrutiny since claims of a cannibalism fetish began spreading in January 2021, when an anonymous Instagram account posted unverified purported DMs with the actor. In his first interview since the scandal, Hammer told Air Mail Saturday that he was sexually abused by a pastor as a teenager and that he became suicidal after his downfall. He also denied any criminal wrongdoing, saying instead that he "never thrust" BDSM relationships or encounters on anyone. A woman also accused him of a "violent" rape that took place in 2017 and spoke at a press conference in March 2021. The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) confirmed to Insider the same month that it was investigating Hammer as the main suspect in a sexual assault allegation. An anonymous source told TMZ in December 2021 that the case had wrapped with the actor unlikely to face charges. It all started when the Instagram account @houseofeffie posted dozens of screenshots of direct messages that it claimed Hammer had sent women between 2016 and 2020. The woman who shared the screenshots, who has since been identified as Efrosina Angelova, per The Hollywood Reporter, is the woman who accused Hammer of rape at the press conference in March 2021, according to Variety. The messages in the screenshots, which are unverified, referred to fantasies involving domination and cannibalism, among other claims. Hammer denied certain allegations against him, such as the allegation of rape, and simply avoided or refused to address others. He was dropped by two projects, including "The Offer," Paramount's series about the making of "The Godfather." He was also dropped by his agency and his publicist. Story continues Hammer first began trending on social media in 2021 over alleged NSFW direct messages shared by the account @houseofeffie In January 2021, an Instagram account called @houseofeffie began to share messages that the account claimed were from actor Armie Hammer. The messages, which remain unverified by media outlets including Insider, detailed fantasies including drinking blood, sexual domination, and even acts of cannibalism. The messages began to go viral after being amplified by the Instagram gossip page @deuxmoi, which has 590,000 followers. After @houseofeffie surfaced the claims, the account began to share other stories from women who it said had come forward with their own experiences and screenshots of their conversations with the 34-year-old "Call Me By Your Name" actor. While it is unconfirmed whether these messages are genuinely from Hammer, @houseofeffie insists they are and has tried to prove it by releasing what appear to be previously unseen photos of Hammer, which have since been deleted. "Women approached me with their affair stories as we talked overwhelmed with grief for days and nights without sleeping or eating, with some ending up in the ER," the account admin wrote in an Instagram story, which was saved to the account's highlights reel. "We collectively decided we have to speak out after how we were treated and seeing how the women in 2020 were being treated by him," the statement continued. "We cannot allow more women to endure what we are going through in the future." Hammer stepped down from his next movie over what he called 'vicious and spurious online attacks' in mid-January Hammer at the 13th Annual Go Gala at NeueHouse Hollywood on November 16, 2019, in Los Angeles. Richard Shotwell/Invision/AP On January 13, 2021, days after the controversy had begun to unfold online, it was announced that Hammer had stepped down from a coming rom-com called "Shotgun Wedding," in which he was set to play the lead opposite the star and producer Jennifer Lopez. "Given the imminent start date of 'Shotgun Wedding,' Armie has requested to step away from the film and we support him in his decision," a production representative confirmed to Insider. The role was recast with Josh Duhamel taking Hammer's place. The actor and his team vigorously denied the allegations against him. "I'm not responding to these bulls--- claims, but in light of the vicious and spurious online attacks against me, I cannot in good conscience now leave my children for 4 months to shoot a film in the Dominican Republic. Lionsgate is supporting me in this and I'm grateful to them for that," Hammer said in a January 13 statement to People. Hammer's ex-wife Elizabeth Chambers and other exes have since commented on the alleged messages Hammer and Elizabeth Chambers married in 2010 but split in 2020. Leon Bennett/WireImage During the timing of the alleged messages, Hammer was married to Elizabeth Chambers. Prior to the current scandal, Hammer and Chambers had decided to end their 10-year marriage. Chambers filed for divorce on July 10, 2020, citing irreconcilable differences, according to People, and asked for primary custody of their children. According to an expose written by Vanity Fair's Julie Miller on March 11, 2021, "The Hammers had been in expensive family therapy, but, to Elizabeth, the indiscretions and more notably his decision to flee the family during a global pandemic were the final straw." The article went on to claim that Armie mistakenly sent raunchy text messages meant for someone else to Chambers, which helped initiate the divorce. At first, Chambers was tight-lipped as the controversy unfolded on social media. But on February 1, 2021, she posted a full statement on Instagram saying she was "shocked, heartbroken, and devastated." "Heartbreak aside, I am listening, and will continue to listen and educate myself on these delicate matters," she wrote. "I didn't realize how much I didn't know." "I support any victim of assault or abuse and urge anyone who has experienced this pain to seek the help she or he needs to heal," she continued. Chambers is not the only one of Hammer's exes to speak out publicly about the supposed messages or share their own experiences with the actor. Previously, another ex named Courtney Vucekovich, 30, told Page Six that Hammer once told her that he "wants to break my rib and barbecue and eat it" in addition to alleging emotional abuse. And ex-girlfriend Paige Lorenze shared explicit messages she claimed are between herself and Hammer to Page Six as well as detailing instances she claims were abusive. "These latest messages are just further evidence of the reality of his dangerous proclivities and his reaction shows his blatant disregard for the women he has traumatized," the 22-year-old student told the publication. "I want to offer my continued support to the other women who have been preyed on by men and have the courage to come forward." "These assertions about Mr. Hammer are patently untrue," his lawyer Andrew Brettler said in a statement shared to outlets including Page Six and Fox News. "Any interactions with this person, or any partner of his, were completely consensual in that they were fully discussed, agreed upon, and mutually participatory. The stories being perpetuated in the media are a misguided attempt to present a one-sided narrative with the goal of tarnishing Mr. Hammer's reputation, and communications from the individuals involved prove that." The Daily Mail also reported that one of Hammer's exes, the writer Jessica Ciencin Henriquez, whose Twitter account is private, had posted about her experience with Hammer. "If you are still questioning whether or not those Armie Hammer DMs are real (and they are) maybe you should start questioning why we live in a culture willing to give abusers the benefit of the doubt instead of victims," Henriquez tweeted, according to the Daily Mail. Hammer's past behavior and quotes are now being re-examined with new scrutiny Given the nature of the supposed messages, fans are going back through old interviews to find any connection. In a Netflix Brazil interview for "Rebecca" in November 2020, for example, Hammer said his dream dinner guest would be the Marquis de Sade, an 18th-century French philosopher and writer famous for his erotic work that heavily involved sexual violence. The words "sadism" and "sadist" derive from de Sade's name. And in 2013, Hammer described himself in an interview with Playboy magazine as being a "dominant lover." "Well, if you're married to a feminist as I am, then it's ... I don't know how much we can put here without my parents being embarrassed, but I used to like to be a dominant lover," the actor said. "I liked the grabbing of the neck and the hair and all that. But then you get married and your sexual appetites change," he continued. "And I mean that for the better it's not like I'm suffering in any way. But you can't really pull your wife's hair. It gets to a point where you say, 'I respect you too much to do these things that I kind of want to do.'" That same year, the actor told Elle magazine that a former girlfriend tried to stab him while they were having sex. "She was like: 'True love leaves scars. You don't have any.' And then she tried to stab me with a butcher knife," he said. "Of course I promptly broke up with her. Seven months later." Hammer was dropped by both his agency, WME, and his personal publicist, the Hollywood Reporter and Variety reported on February 5, 2021. The LAPD investigated a rape allegation against Hammer The LAPD confirmed to Insider in March 2021 that they were investigating an allegation of rape against Hammer. It was not immediately clear whether the investigation was related to the accusation made by Angelova, who spoke about her alleged assault during a press conference Thursday alongside Gloria Allred, a high-profile women's rights attorney. "On April 24, 2017, Armie Hammer violently raped me for over four hours in Los Angeles," she said at the conference, "during which he repeatedly slapped my head against a wall, bruising my face." She added that Hammer "also committed other acts of violence against me to which I did not consent." Angelova said that she tried to get away from Hammer, "but he wouldn't let me." Hammer's lawyer, Andrew Brettler, denied the allegations in a statement provided to Insider. "Effie's own correspondence with Mr. Hammer undermines and refutes her outrageous allegations," Brettler said in the statement. The statement continued, "It was never Mr. Hammer's intention to embarrass or expose [Effie's] fetishes or kinky sexual desires, but she has now escalated this matter to another level by hiring a civil lawyer to host a public press conference. With the truth on his side, Mr. Hammer welcomes the opportunity to set the record straight." Allred, Angelova's lawyer, told Insider in a statement: "I challenge Armie Hammer to present all, not some, of his communications with Effie to the Los Angeles Police Department and answer all of their questions directly rather than through his lawyers." An anonymous source with "direct knowledge" of the case told TMZ in December 2021 that the LAPD wrapped its investigation and passed on their findings to the district attorney. They added that the actor wasn't likely to face charges because the case "wasn't strong." Hammer addressed the scandal in a new interview shared Saturday The actor told Air Mail that he contemplated suicide while quarantining in the Cayman Islands in February 2021. "I just walked out into the ocean and swam out as far as I could and hoped that either I drowned, or was hit by a boat, or eaten by a shark. Then I realized that my kids were still on shore, and that I couldn't do that to my kids," he said. He also said his desire to engage in BDSM emerged after he was molested by a youth pastor at age 13, citing a need for "control." "What that did for me was it introduced sexuality into my life in a way that it was completely out of my control," Hammer said. "I was powerless in the situation. I had no agency in the situation. My interests then went to: I want to have control in the situation, sexually." Hammer denied Angelova's rape allegation. Instead, he told Air Mail that the two engaged in a "scene" that they planned together over Facebook Messenger. He called the encounter a "consensual non-consent scene." While he admitted to being emotionally abusive to his partners, he denied any criminal wrongdoing. "I'm here to own my mistakes, take accountability for the fact that I was an asshole, that I was selfish, that I used people to make me feel better, and when I was done, moved on. And treated people more poorly than they should have been treated," he said. Read the original article on Insider Generally speaking the aim of active stock picking is to find companies that provide returns that are superior to the market average. Buying under-rated businesses is one path to excess returns. To wit, the KPJ Healthcare Berhad share price has climbed 11% in five years, easily topping the market decline of 16% (ignoring dividends). On the other hand, the more recent gains haven't been so impressive, with shareholders gaining just 1.2% , including dividends . So let's investigate and see if the longer term performance of the company has been in line with the underlying business' progress. View our latest analysis for KPJ Healthcare Berhad While the efficient markets hypothesis continues to be taught by some, it has been proven that markets are over-reactive dynamic systems, and investors are not always rational. One flawed but reasonable way to assess how sentiment around a company has changed is to compare the earnings per share (EPS) with the share price. During five years of share price growth, KPJ Healthcare Berhad actually saw its EPS drop 5.0% per year. Since EPS is down a bit, and the share price is up, it's probably that the market previously had some concerns about the company, but the reality has been better than feared. In the long term, though, it will be hard for the share price rises to continue without improving EPS. The image below shows how EPS has tracked over time (if you click on the image you can see greater detail). We know that KPJ Healthcare Berhad has improved its bottom line lately, but is it going to grow revenue? Check if analysts think KPJ Healthcare Berhad will grow revenue in the future. What About Dividends? As well as measuring the share price return, investors should also consider the total shareholder return (TSR). Whereas the share price return only reflects the change in the share price, the TSR includes the value of dividends (assuming they were reinvested) and the benefit of any discounted capital raising or spin-off. Arguably, the TSR gives a more comprehensive picture of the return generated by a stock. We note that for KPJ Healthcare Berhad the TSR over the last 5 years was 21%, which is better than the share price return mentioned above. This is largely a result of its dividend payments! Story continues A Different Perspective KPJ Healthcare Berhad shareholders gained a total return of 1.2% during the year. But that was short of the market average. It's probably a good sign that the company has an even better long term track record, having provided shareholders with an annual TSR of 4% over five years. It's quite possible the business continues to execute with prowess, even as the share price gains are slowing. While it is well worth considering the different impacts that market conditions can have on the share price, there are other factors that are even more important. For instance, we've identified 2 warning signs for KPJ Healthcare Berhad (1 shouldn't be ignored) that you should be aware of. If you would prefer to check out another company -- one with potentially superior financials -- then do not miss this free list of companies that have proven they can grow earnings. Please note, the market returns quoted in this article reflect the market weighted average returns of stocks that currently trade on MY exchanges. Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned. Join A Paid User Research Session Youll receive a US$30 Amazon Gift card for 1 hour of your time while helping us build better investing tools for the individual investors like yourself. Sign up here NEW YORK (AP) Kyrie Irving sat out the Brooklyn Nets come-from-behind win over Washington on Saturday night, a day after he told the team he would like to be traded. The Nets said Irving's absence was due to right calf soreness, adding him to the injury report for their game against Washington. Irving had not been listed on the report Friday night or Saturday morning. Brooklyn coach Jacque Vaughn said after the Nets' 125-123 win that Irving did not attend the game and that the player's absence was excused. We were all in agreement on him not being here tonight, Vaughn said. Vaughn said before the game that he was unsure if Irving would be at Barclays Center. He did say Irving was not at the walkthrough. He wouldn't speculate if Irving would be available for the Nets' two remaining games before the trade deadline Thursday afternoon. Im just going to be concerned about (the Wizards), Vaughn said. Im not going to complicate this thing at all. Irving asked the Nets for a trade Friday, a person with knowledge of the details told The Associated Press. The All-Star has been frustrated that the Nets have thus far refused to give him an extension on his contact that expires after this season. Vaughn said he spoke with Irving and the rest of the team Friday, prior to the star guard's trade request becoming public. However, it was not a topic of conversation between the coach and his team. Our conversations were more than basketball, said Vaughn. Life, checking in on them. I never want to speculate how a player feels. Their feelings are their feelings. And I'll always validate that. ... So I won't speculate. Kevin Durant is still sidelined because of a sprained knee ligament, and Ben Simmons and T.J. Warren will each also miss their fourth straight game with left knee soreness and a left shin contusion, respectively. Simmons was downgraded after previously being listed as questionable. Warren was initially listed as doubtful, which changed to out about an hour before gametime. Story continues Just trying to get to a level T.J. and Ben where they're comfortable getting back on the court and playing, Vaughn said. When asked if he had received a timetable when to expect Simmons to be able to play, Vaughn said, I think we're inching toward that way. It's really day to day. He'll get back on the court tomorrow. Hopefully he feels a comfort level and responds to the work tomorrow to get him close to playing these next two games. ___ AP freelancer Denis P. Gorman contributed to this report. ___ AP NBA: https://apnews.com/hub/NBA and https://twitter.com/AP_Sports Photo Illustration by Kelly Caminero / The Daily Beast / Reuters JERUSALEMIn Jerusalem, standing beside Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken uncharacteristically minced no words: The United States, he said, wanted to stress our support for core democratic principles and institutions, including respect for human rights, the equal administration of justice for all, the equal rights of minority groups, the rule of law, free press, a robust civil society. It was the sort of cautionary notice Blinken might have issued in authoritarian Turkey or in Poland, but never before heard from a senior American official in Israel. It spotlighted almost all the parts of Israeli governance Netanyahu plans to dismantle as part of a vast judicial blitz which would leave him, as the nations chief executive, with almost absolute power. Then Blinken pulled a final arrow out andreferring to the massive protests that have emerged since Israels long-time leader returned to power on Dec. 29shot it straight at Netanyahu: And the vibrancy of Israels civil society has been on full display of late. Netanyahu and his allies, including Yair, his right-wing troll son, slam the protests as anti-Israeli subversion funded by foreign money. In addition to street demonstrations, Netanyahus radical overhaul has been met with a wall of condemnation from every sector in Israels establishment, ranging from the entire judiciary to bank and university presidents, academic leaders, tech titans, business leaders, economists, doctors, teachers, and more than 170 mayors. Netanyahus Right-Wing Blitz Is the Most Corrupt Day in Israeli History Netanyahus all-out assault on Israels judiciary would neuter the judiciary, void Supreme Court rulings, and accord him almost total authority over the levers of government. Israel does not have a written constitution, and Netanyahu is threatening to revoke some of the Basic Laws that guarantee civil rights. Mordechai Kremnitzer, a renowned Israeli jurist and professor of law at the Hebrew University, told The Daily Beast that Israel is undergoing an attempted regime change by a political majority, which would transform the country from a liberal democracy to a country with an authoritarian, populist, nationalist and religious system with many characteristics of absolute power for majority, and no mechanism of judicial review. Story continues Netanyahus finance minister, who recently described himself as a fascist homophobe, and hopes to impose the law of the Torah on Israel, has submitted to parliament a law which would allow faith-based discrimination. Other ministers are acting to usurp the power of parents and regional and municipal authorities over educational programming, to deny the right of traditionally Arab-majority political parties to run for the KnessetIsraels parliamentto limit the right to strike, restrict the right of journalists to publish leaks, and entirely do away with Israels public broadcaster, Kann News. The Threat From Within On the international front, his government has announced plans to, de facto, rescind Israels recognition of most Jewish communities in the world as properly Jewish, and to curb Israels unique immigration law, which was established 75 years ago so as to guarantee Jews a homeland should they be threatened by antisemitism in the lands of their birth. And thats not half of it: Last weekend, an Israeli army incursion into the West Bank city of Jenin resulted in the deaths of nine Palestinians, including at least two innocent bystanders, and triggered a bloody weekend in Jerusalem. Seven Israelis were killed in two terrorist shooting attacks perpetrated by east Jerusalemites: a 21-year-old who was shot dead by Israeli police, and a 13-year-old whose family home has been sealed off under orders of Netanyahus Minister for National Security, Itamar Ben Gvir. Ben Gvir, a rabble rouser with dozens of hate crime convictions, led a late night posse chanting death to the terrorists! after the first attack. Danny Yatom, a retired major general and former head of the Israeli intelligence agency Mossad, and one of hundreds of former police and military officers who have joined the resistance to Netanyahus scheme, told The Daily Beast he considered the number one threat confronting Israel to be the threat from within: the fissures and cleavages tearing apart Israeli society, which in the past has always evinced solidarity when confronted by danger. The divisiveness weakens Israeli cohesion, and in the eyes of our enemies, the events taking place in the country are a sign of weakness. Last week, three tech and financial services companies announced they were withdrawing from Israel, citing rule of law concerns, only to be followed this week by Tom Livne, founder of software giant Verbitvalued at $2 billionwho said he intends to leave Israel in protest. Netanyahu has lost a top Bank of Israel official and three ambassadors who resigned in protest at his governments radical policies. He also lost a crucial political ally, Minister of the Interior and Health Minister Aryeh Deri, whom the Supreme Court ruled unfit due to a recent conviction for tax evasion. Supreme Court Chief Justice Esther Hayut warned Netanyahu of a fatal blow to Israeli democracy, and was slammed as an enemy of the state. Two former governors of the Bank of Israel and the current office-holder, Amir Yaron, a Netanyahu appointee, cautioned Netanyahu that erasing checks and balances will negatively affect foreign investment in Israel, a crucial column of Israels booming economy. Netanyahus online followers immediately branded Yaron a leftist. On Tuesday, at a public event, Netanyahu himself accused opposition leader Yair Lapid, the immediate former prime minister, of harming Israels economy. Netanyahu is barely paying lip service to Israels existing laws: his coalition already submitted a bill, popularly called the Deri Law, which would override the Supreme Court ruling to reinstate barred ex-convict Deri in Netanyahus cabinet and provoke an unprecedented constitutional crisis in Israel. Netanyahu and his allies have wasted no time in employing methods that, under Israels current laws, are brazenly illegal. He continues to invite Deri to cabinet meetings, and his replacements in crucial offices of state have yet to show up for work. The Shock Doctrine Netanyahu himself was indicted on charges of bribery, fraud and breach of trust in 2019, and remains on trial. Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miaras warning on Thursdayin which he compelled Netanyahu to immediately stop any activity relating to the judiciary while proceedings against him are underwayled Simcha Rothman, a key Netanyahu ally, to threaten to fire her for sedition. It is no exaggeration to say that this entire crazy initiative has been engineered by Bibi Netanyahu to escape the legal predicament that still confronts him, said Yatom. He wants quite simply the power to influence the selection of judgesthe judges who will hear his appeals. Israeli journalists reporting on the pandemonium cant keep up. Orli Barlev, an independent journalist closely linked with the public protest against government corruption, told The Daily Beast that Netanyahu's media people are on them all the time. A reporter says one thing and is swarmed by spin from Netanyahus online army, or even threatened. Journalists havent yet assimilated the fact that Netanyahu is a proven liar. After a vertiginous month, Israelis can barely catch their breathwhich is, according to constitutional law professor Adam Shinar, the whole point. Its the shock doctrine, he told The Daily Beast. Its a hugely important concept in understanding politics. The idea, he said, is long used by aspiring authoritarians to flood the public space with so many drastic transformations that by the time the opposition gets to its feet, itll all be over. Netanyahu, for example, has not tried to persuade Israelis of the need for any specific, defined reform. Instead, he is trying to push through the pipeline many changes at once, each very complicated yet condensed into a few pieces of legislationeach of which merits separate debate. The government is doing this as fast as possible so the opposition time to organize, Shinar said. What are you going to fight first? While you ask yourself that question, theyre five miles down the road with even more radical changes. Roee Neuman, a leader of the pro-democracy protest movement, told The Daily Beast he is getting calls from journalists and lawyers and civil society people who are genuinely afraid of being criminalized and being jailed if this reform/coup is enacted. There will be no reset if this happens, he said. It is terrifying. Read more at The Daily Beast. Get the Daily Beast's biggest scoops and scandals delivered right to your inbox. Sign up now. Stay informed and gain unlimited access to the Daily Beast's unmatched reporting. Subscribe now. Georgia Maloney Read also: Italian Prime Minister to visit Ukraine in early 2023 I will be in Kyiv before Feb. 24 (the first anniversary of Russian invasion), Meloni said. She didn't disclose the exact date of her visit. On Jan. 17, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, in an interview with the Italian TV channel Rai, said that Prime Minister Meloni, who had provided strong support to Ukraine since she took office, would arrive in Kyiv in near future. Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine TOKYO (Reuters) - Japan's government will begin restricting exports of advanced semiconductor manufacturing equipment to China in Spring after it amends a foreign exchange law to allow the change, Kyodo News reported on Saturday. The new regulation will not mention China specifically in a bid to reduce the risk of retaliation by Beijing, the report said, without saying where it obtained the information. Japan and the Netherlands have agreed to join the United States in halting shipments of semiconductor manufacturing equipment produced by the likes of Nikon Corp and ASML Holdings in a bid to stop China developing and advanced chips that could be used to enhance its military power, sources told Reuters, confirming earlier media reports. Only Washington, however, has acknowledged the existence of the deal, and has yet to release any details of what equipment will be restricted. (Reporting by Tim Kelly,; Editing by Lincoln Feast.) TOKYO (AP) A senior aide to Japans prime minister is being dismissed after making discriminatory remarks about LGBTQ people. Prime Minister Fumio Kishida told reporters Saturday that Masayoshi Arai, a secretary at his office, was being dismissed after Arai recently told Japanese media he did not like seeing LGBTQ people. Arai had retracted his comments and apologized on Friday. Kishida said the remarks run counter to the administrations position on promoting diversity. Taking strong action is inevitable, Kishida said without providing further details, meaning Arai may leave voluntarily. Arai's remarks prompted an outburst of protest and were the latest in a string of gaffes by Japanese officials that have landed them in trouble. Saving face is important in conformist Japan, where prejudice against LGBTQ people, racial groups, women and other nationalities persist. Japan is the only Group of Seven country that does not recognize same-sex marriage, but the movement toward recognition has been growing. Kishidas administration has been hit by several scandals recently, and its popularity is shaky. Various Japanese officials have resigned over the years over comments they made. A justice minister stepped down last year after joking about capital punishment. In 2021, Yoshiro Mori resigned as head of the Tokyo Olympic organizing committee after saying women talked too much. Mori had been gaffe-prone when he earlier served as prime minister, about 20 years ago. A minister in charge of cybersecurity who acknowledged he had hardly ever used a computer resigned in 2019. ___ Yuri Kageyama is on Twitter https://twitter.com/yurikageyama Jeremy Renner (AP Photo/Alastair Grant) Jeremy Renner has sent a promise to fans from hospital ahead of his new TV series. The Hawkeye star has been in hospital since the start of the year after a freak and potentially deadly snowplough accident left him in critical condition. Read more: Jeremy Renner laughs off 'breaking 30 bones' in accident with Avengers co-star Thankfully, he is now on the mend - even joking with his Marvel co-stars about the incident - as he begins to rehabilitate in hospital. Now, he's promising fans to visit them when he's back on his feet ahead of the release of his new Disney+ series, Rennervations. He wrote: "We are so very excited to share the #rennervations show with you all on @disneyplus coming very soon!!! As soon as Im back on my feet, we are coming to YOU , all across the globe I hope youre ready !!!" Read more: Jeremy Renner: 911 call log reveals star was 'completely crushed' in snow plough accident Fans have been delighted by the update and sent them his well wishes as he continues to recover. "Sounds fantastic! Dont hurry too much to get back on your feet, make sure you are fully recovered. We can wait!" one wrote. Jeremy Renner (Instagram) Another said: "You take the time you need to heal we will all be here when youre ready." "Dont rush your recovery! Well be here patiently waiting. Just focus on getting healthy!!" said a third. Renner was rushed to hospital on New Year's Day after getting crushed by the 14,000lb SnowCat while attempting to help someone stuck in the snow near his ranch in Lake Tahoe, Nevada. He suffered blunt force chest trauma and orthopaedic injuries after the vehicle started rolling and he tried to get back into the driver's seat and fell underneath it. Jeremy Renner (Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP, File) Renner was airlifted to hospital and thankfully, despite the severe damage, emergency services were able to stabalise him and now he can focus on recovery. His family have been by his side throughout. Story continues His sister Kym Renner later told People : "We are so thrilled with his progress. If anyone knows Jeremy, he is a fighter and doesn't mess around. He is crushing all the progress goals. We couldn't feel more positive about the road ahead." WATCH: Jeremy Renner broke '30-plus bones' in snowplough accident A Hartford man was sentenced to more than seven years in prison after pleading guilty to possession of fentanyl and firearms as a convicted felon, officials said. Elvin Peewee Gonzalez, 45, appeared in court in New Haven on Thursday and was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Janet C. Hall to 87 months in prison, followed by four years of supervised release, for selling narcotics to undercover agents and being found in possession of multiple drugs and firearms, according to the U.S. Attorneys office. Gonzalez and an East Hartford man named Jose Chepo Rivera reportedly sold fentanyl and crack cocaine to members of the FBIs Northern Connecticut Gang Task Force and the Hartford Police Department in June 2021, according to court records. Both men were arrested on June 25, 2021, leading investigators to search their homes. In Gonzalezs Hartford home, investigators found about 4,000 dose bags of fentanyl, 139 grams of crack, about 18 grams of cocaine, two loaded handguns, a loaded rifle and additional ammunition, officials said. The rifle and one of the handguns had been reported stolen, records show. Gonzalez, a convicted felon, was not allowed to be in possession of firearms. His lengthy criminal record includes convictions connected to narcotics, robbery and other crimes in Connecticut, Massachusetts and Vermont, officials said. In Riveras home, investigators found another 162 grams of fentanyl, 300 dose bags of fentanyl, a handgun and loaded magazine, $19,000 in cash and items used to process and package narcotics for sale, records show. Gonzalez pleaded guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl, and one count of possession of a firearm by a felon in November 2021. He has been released from custody on bond but is now required to report to prison on June 7, officials said. Rivera is still awaiting sentencing. He pleaded guilty to the same offenses last month, officials said. via Fox News The Chinese surveillance balloon floating above the continental U.S. would be subjected to a handful of unfeasible and outright silly actions if Fox News host Jesse Watters were in charge. Despite Pentagon officials advising President Biden that shooting down the sizable balloon would risk harming civilians on the ground, Watters didnt appear too concerned about that Friday on The Five. Why not shoot it over Montana? Watters said before theorizing that anyone whose property gets damaged would be satisfied by the fame that would ensue. Thats your barn that it lands on. The feds reimburse you the money, and then you set up a little museum for the rest of your life and you live off that. You do Good Morning America, you do Fox and Friends, and thats it. Fox host says the DOD should just shoot down the balloon because whoever's property it destroys will become famous pic.twitter.com/rLmbbSKAJd nikki mccann ramirez (@NikkiMcR) February 3, 2023 Watters is far from the only conservative calling for the balloon to be shot down, with Rep. Paul Gosar (R-AZ) and failed Arizona gubernatorial candidate Kari Lake giddily posting photos of themselves armed on Twitter. In his 7 p.m. show on Fox, Watters nevertheless offered some alternatives. How about you crank some of those windmills cockeye and, you know, blow it back to Canada? Watters suggested, perhaps angling for the agreement of Donald Trump, whose dislike of windmills is well-documented. Or how about you ram it with the Goodyear blimp? he continued, as if strategizing how to complete a video game mission. Scramble some more F-22 Raptors. Throw some lead in that sucker. Trump wanted to nuke a hurricane. You guys wont even throw a dart at a balloon? Were just going to wait until the weather blows it away? he added dismissively. Story continues During his monologue, Watters also warned that if a similar balloon were to hover in U.S. airspace in the future, it could be filled with another virus by the Chinese. Earlier Friday, Rep. James Comer (R-KY) wondered if the future was now, saying on Fox that the balloon currently in the air could have bioweapons from Wuhan. Read more at The Daily Beast. Get the Daily Beast's biggest scoops and scandals delivered right to your inbox. Sign up now. Stay informed and gain unlimited access to the Daily Beast's unmatched reporting. Subscribe now. The Massachusetts Teachers Association was ordered by a judge to stop the strike in Woburn by 9 p.m. Friday as teachers were back on the picket line for the fifth straight day. Woburn teachers stood in frigid temperatures to come to an agreement with the city, but no deal has been made. The WTA and its president were fined $40,000 for not returning to the classroom on Friday. The judge also said they would be fined an additional $5,000 for each day the strike goes on and that the fines be paid by 5 p.m. each day. Teachers have been on strike since Monday, forcing school to be canceled all week. Among the sticking points are salaries, class sizes, and pay for paraprofessionals. The WTA has said their main priority is securing a higher salary for paraprofessionals, who make about $22,000 a year. Woburn Mayor Scott Galvin has said he had sat with the WTA more than 25 times over the past year and reached a signed agreement with the union in October, but union members rejected it. Galvin said the city offered a 10.75% raise over three years, but the WTA countered with 14.75% raises over the same period. This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available. Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW WOODBURY - A jury has convicted a Clayton man accused of fatally attacking another motorist in a 2018 road-rage incident. Everett E. Moore, originally charged with murder, was found guilty of the aggravated manslaughter of Joseph Pirri, a 32-year-old Blackwood man. A jury also found Moore guilty of two weapons offenses after a trial that began Jan. 3. Deadly attack in Deptford Moore, 58, attacked Pirri in March 7, 2018, as the victim sat in his car on Tanyard Road near Mail Avenue in Deptford, according to the Gloucester County Prosecutor's Office. Pirri, the married father of two, was "heavily slashed on his face with a sharp instrument, the prosecutor's office said in a statement. Pirri was able to describe his assailant and the attacker's pick-up truck, but he died in a hospital eight days after the incident. Moore, a construction worker, was arrested on April 25, 2018 after an investigator's search of law enforcement databases identified a suspect vehicle. Victim was family man, Eagles fan Pirri was a 2004 graduate of Pitman High School and an employee of LKQ Auto Parts in West Deptford, according to an obituary. "Joe loved his family and was an avid Eagles and Jersey Devils fan. He enjoyed video games and Bingo," the obituary said. Superior Court Judge M. Christine Allen-Jackson scheduled sentencing for March 1. Jim Walsh is a senior reporter with the Courier-Post, Burlington County Times and The Daily Journal. This article originally appeared on Cherry Hill Courier-Post: Clayton man convicted after trial for road rage death in Deptford Kansas City police are investigating a homicide Saturday afternoon in the Palestine West and Oak Park Northeast neighborhood. Officers responded to a cutting call just before noon around the 3800 block of Bales Avenue, according to Officer Donna Drake, a spokeswoman with the Kansas City Police Department. When police entered a residence, they discovered an adult male suffering from trauma wounds. Emergency medical personnel pronounced him dead at the scene. Detectives are surveying the neighborhood to gather more information from bystanders. Its broad daylight, Drake said. Were hoping that, on a Saturday, people were home and may have seen something or even just heard something from inside their residence. The victims death is Kansas Citys 16th homicide recorded this year, according to data kept by The Star. Last year, the city suffered the second-deadliest year on record with 171 killings, the majority of which were the result of gun violence. Four months after closing its largest fund to date, Kapor Capital wants more. The firm is under new leadership after co-founders Freada and Mitch Kapor stepped back from the outfit, which focuses on funding social impact ventures and founders of color. Now, led by Uriridiakoghene Ulili Onovakpuri and Brian Dixon, Kapor Capital is hoping to raise a $50 million opportunity fund, according to an SEC filing. The opportunity fund, if closed, would continue Kapor Capitals new strategy of taking capital from outside investors. Up until last year, all of Kapors funds were directly from the founding partners; in September, though, the firm closed a $126 million Fund 3 backed by investors including Cambridge Associates, Align Impact, Ford Foundation, Bank of America, PayPal and Twilio. At the time, Dixon told TechCrunch that turning to external investors helps the firm with access; Kapor is now writing checks between $250,000 and $3 million with a primary focus on participating in pre-seed and seed rounds. Onovakpuri said the larger fund would allow them to invest in more companies with bigger checks. That said, with presumably a fresh chunk of capital to deploy, why would Kapor be eyeing an opportunity fund? Its a trend-turned-standard among early-stage venture capital firms that want to get in on later rounds of their star portfolio companies. Last year, Khosla debuted an opportunity fund and last week, Cowboy raised its first of the kind as well. Kapor Capital did not immediately return a request for comment. Ohio Department of Higher Education (ODHE) will give Kettering College close to $700,000 as a part of the Choose Ohio First (COF) program for eligible nursing students. With this funding, the ODHE will expand their eligibility requirements to respiratory care and sonography students. >> NEW: Montgomery Co. allocates thousands of dollars for community art grants Kettering College will receive $680,400 over the next five years for students participating in the COF scholarship. To be eligible, students must: Be an Ohio resident Be a new student enrolling in nursing, respiratory therapy, or sonography Submit a FAFSA (to determine financial need) Meet all program acceptance and/or good standing requirements Kettering College students have an additional opportunity to prepare for a successful STEM career, thanks to the success and ongoing support of the Choose Ohio First program, ODHE Chancellor Randy Gardner said. This latest award will benefit Kettering College students in the healthcare field pursuing a career as a respiratory therapist or ultrasound technician. Kettering College appreciates the ongoing support from the Ohio Department of Higher Education to ensure we offer assistance to students answering the call to work in healthcare in Ohio, Kettering College President Nate Brandstater stated. We are grateful to now have the opportunity to extend this scholarship to incoming radiology and sonography students, in addition to nursing students. While Jon Snow knows nothing, Kit Harington is well aware of the rabid fervor surrounding his own Game of Thrones spin-off. The native Londoner addressed rumors about the prospective series during an appearance Friday on The Tonight Show. Harington didnt officially confirm it was in development but admitted that any more bruises to his ego could change that. I dont know, man I walk down the street, and I get recognized a little less nowadays, and it kind of hurts my ego, you know? Im pretty close to, like, putting on some furs, Harington told Fallon before adding, I got a tally in my head of how few photos I get asked for in a day. He continued: And when it gets below a certain number, I think Ill do a spin-off. Fallon then jokingly begged his audience to stop asking Harington for photos in a cheeky attempt to spawn the Snow-laden series. He said, we would see a Game of Thrones spin-off right now with Jon Snow if the viewers would stop bothering Harington. Harington ultimately admitted that he cant say anything about his prospective reprisal as Jon Snow. However, news of a sequel series being in early development was first reported in June 2022 by The Hollywood Reporter. Even Maisie Williams, who played his sister, was excited. I think its really exciting, and I think that Kit is such a phenomenal actor, Williams told People last year. Him playing Jon Snow was just like a cultural reset. I think everything he touches is magic, and Im excited to see what it will be. Harington has long suggested that he has been yearning to reprise his role as the King in the North. The actor told EW during a Game of Thrones convention last year that Snow wouldve felt he got off lightly after merely being banished to the Wall in the North after killing Daenerys (Emilia Clarke). However, Harington said what happened next was ripe for exploration. Hes gotta go back up to the place with all this history and live out his life thinking about how he killed Danny about Ygritte dying in his arms about how he hung Olly, and about all of this trauma, Harington told the outlet. And that thats interesting. Story continues Harington added viewers wanted some kind of little smile that things are OK at the end but that Snow was definitely not OK. He described Snows banishment as the greatest curse and seemingly hopes like Fallons audience that itll one day be depicted. Related... Kit Harington has another baby on the way! The former Games of Thrones star revealed that he and his wife, Rose Leslie, who played his love interest on the hit show, are expecting their second child during an appearance on The Tonight Show after host Jimmy Fallon asked how his son was doing. He's good, he's two. Yeah, we think he might be quite smart, Harington said on Friday, Feb. 3. Well, its surprising, seeing as were both actors. Were not sure quite where thats come from. When Fallon asked if Harington wanted his son to be an actor, he replied, Well, he loves applause. Every time he does something good, we give him applause and were worrying thats pushing him toward acting. Were a bit like, Eh, you might be too smart for this, go save the world. Were sick, we had no choice,' Harington added. But, hes really good. Hes about to get the shock of his life, which is that hes about to get a brother or sister. Fallon congratulated the actor before asking if he was excited or nervous about expecting his second child. Im terrified. You know with the first baby, youre walking on clouds and dancing through fields of daisies for nine monthswell, the man is, anyway, he said. But this time, the reality check comes much shorter. You get practical real quick. As for his son, Harington said he wasnt sure if he conceptually understood it just yet, adding, Were trying to get him ready for it. We point at Roses tummy and we say Mommys baby. Mommys baby. And he points at his tummy and goes My baby. Harington and Leslie initially met on the set of Games Thrones while filming the second season of the HBO hit show. While he famously portrayed the character Jon Snow who is slated to be the center of an upcoming spin-off show Leslie portrayed the character Ygritte, who had an on-screen romance with Haringtons character. The actor spoke about meeting his wife on set during a Sunday Sitdown in April 2019, telling TODAYs Willie Geist, It happens that we met in the show and weve always tried not to be defined by that. Its just a job we met on and I think once the show finishes, we get to break free of it and just be us, which is a really nice feeling," he added. Story continues Harrington and Leslie, who has opened up about her husband's history of substance abuse, tied the knot on June 23, 2018 during a star-star-studded ceremony in Scotland. The couple welcomed their first child, a son, in February 2021. While the couple have kept details of their family life private, Harington opened up about being a "modern father" during a Sept. 2022 interview with People. We are now becoming more involved in child raising and as a modern father, there is a real feeling of being a bystander at times, he told the outlet. You are not actively involved in the process of growing the child and there can be a real feeling of not knowing what is going on, what emotions are happening, what the mother or your partner is going through. This article was originally published on TODAY.com The Save a Life Tour stopped in Somers this week, offering students some facts, statistics and stories about distracted driving, as well as a chance to get a sense of what driving distracted feels like on a simulated driving machine. The simulator stations have a steering wheel and gas and brake pedals, connected to a video screen, which shows a series of roadways resembling a typical town, complete with cars, trucks, buses, curbs, trees, buildings and pedestrians. Accompanying the driving simulator is a smartphone that the user holds, and must try to answer texts. While navigating the simulation, the drivers are asked simple questions, like What time do you want to get food later? or What is your favorite fruit? The purpose is to answer as many questions as possible, while trying to stay on the virtual road without incident, which none found easy to do. As I was answering the phone, the wheel would seem to vibrate and shift over to one side. I kept getting text messages every 15, 20 second or so. It was just difficult to answer them while driving, said senior Connor Marchi. The simulator does a good job of accurately depicting how it is to drive distracted. It does a good job of showing us kids how dangerous and how hard it is, and how not worth it it is. Senior Connor Marchi was one of the first students to try the simulator at Somers High School on Feb. 3. I was nervous, said senior Samantha Peacock. Its weird. Its obviously different than driving an actual car, but just looking away for a second, the wheel turns to the left or the right and you miss it. Meanwhile, the light is turning green. I was slow, but I was nervous. Its hard to do two things at once. Even if people say they are a multi-tasker, you cant be a multi-tasker at everything. Thats just not how life works. The presentation was brought to the school via the Connecticut Department of Transportation. CJ Rich, who is based in Grand Rapids, Michigan, has traveled the country visiting schools since the early 2000s. Rich also brought the tour to Enfield High School on Feb. 1 and 2. Somers High School Resource Officer Craig Jones helped facilitate the program, which started there in 2022. Weve had good response from the students, Jones said. Ive actually had parents call me after this, to say that their students were talking about it and didnt realize some of the things they had learned from CJ and I during the presentation. Weve been around for about 20 years now. We elaborate on safe driving, but we also depict texting and driving and impaired driving, he said. We would bring this to every school in America if we could. After completing the simulations, students were asked to complete a quick survey, and take a pledge to not drive distracted. The students all attended an assembly earlier that morning, which included statistics (1 person dies every 52 minutes from DUI crashes, for example) a video about distracted driving, via real-life stories. It was stories that involved distracted driving incidents that, most of the time, resulted in a death, Marchi said, adding that he felt the seriousness hit home with him and his classmates. The video almost made me cry. A girl had lost her mother, Peacock said. Its dangerous. Marchi said he feels that his fellow students, and many adults, do drive with some sort of distracting activity on a regular basis. Definitely, he said. I think it goes beyond the kids in school. I think its a world-[wide] thing. I think a lot of people, whether they want to admit it or not, are distracted when theyre driving. Its not good for the roads at all. For more information, visit www.savealifetour.com. A Los Angeles Fire Department firefighter paramedic holds the COVID-19 vaccine to begin to fire personnel in December 2020. (Gary Coronado/Los Angeles Times) When Los Angeles city employees file for religious or medical exemptions to the city's COVID-19 vaccination requirement, the requests are typically reviewed to ensure that exemption requests are valid. But in a twist, the city ordered the approval of all religious and medical exemptions to the vaccine mandate that were filed by city employees as of Jan. 31, according to a city memo reviewed by The Times. Personnel Department General Manager Dana Brown sent a memo to department heads this week, instructing them to "administratively approve all pending appeals by current employees" that were filed before Tuesday. Exemption requests submitted after that will continue to be reviewed on an individual basis and processed according to the Vaccine Exemption Procedures, the memo says. Roughly 4,900 employees will be affected by the change outlined in the memo, according to a source familiar with the city's vaccine requirement who wasn't authorized to speak publicly. In all, more than 5,550 exemptions were sought by city employees, according to the source. Brown, in an email to The Times, said that the Executive Employee Relations Committee voted to approve the policy at its Jan. 27 meeting. It doesn't need City Council approval, she said. The Executive Employee Relations Committee is composed of Mayor Karen Bass and four City Council members. At the same time, the city's requirement that employees be vaccinated against COVID-19 remains in place, according to a memo Bass sent to department heads Wednesday. Representatives for the police and fire unions declined to comment Friday. The Police Department and the Fire Department saw some of the most vocal protests in L.A. over the vaccination mandate, which was passed by the City Council in 2021. City firefighters and police officers sued the city, but lost in court. Others protested in different ways: One member of the Fire Department allegedly wiped his buttocks with a city letter ordering him to comply with the mandate. Story continues He resigned before the investigation into his actions was concluded, said LAFD spokeswoman Cheryl Getuiza. Getuiza said 335 employees sought exemptions to the vaccination requirement before Tuesday. In all, nine were granted, she said. Under the city mandate passed two years ago, employees with medical conditions or sincerely held religious beliefs are exempt from vaccination but subject to regular testing. The rules in L.A. and elsewhere led to a cottage industry helping workers explain their decisions to refuse the vaccinations. In some cases, the exemption requests included letters posted on websites of evangelical churches, conservative legal groups and fee-based organizations such as True Hope Ministry, a Times investigation found. The policy this week, as outlined by the Personnel Department, will extend to "those employees who were previously denied an exemption request and have been placed off duty pending discharge," according to Brown's memo. Personnel directors were also directed to rescind previous denials and resubmit them to the exemptions review committee for approval, according to the memo. A representative for City Council President Paul Krekorian, who serves on the Executive Employee Relations Committee, didn't respond to a request for comment about the change. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. Satya Nadella, CEO of Microsoft. Sean Gallup/Getty Images A Microsoft software engineer said in a LinkedIn post she had many unanswered questions after being laid off. Lupe Canaviri Maydana wondered "where will I be living" as she is running against the clock. Maydana is on an H-1B visa she has a grace period of 60 days before she needs to depart the US. A Microsoft software engineer of nearly two years was among the company's 10,000 laid-off workers in January and said it left her with many unanswered questions. Lupe Canaviri Maydana, from Seattle, Washington, wrote in a Monday LinkedIn post a week after learning she'd been let go that there had been a "lot of things to process" including the daunting thought of where she would be living. "This change hit me with a lot of questions, which in the next months I will have to figure it out," she wrote, before listing some of her questions: "Where will I be living? Which role will I take? Which company will be next in my journey?" The information listed on her LinkedIn profile, including her previous employment and which university she attended, indicates she is originally from Bolivia. Maydana is on an H-1B visa, which means she only has 60 days from the day she was relieved from her employment duties to find another job or she will need to depart the United States, according to Herman, a law firm that specializes in immigrant rights. She worked at Microsoft as a front-end developer, according to her LinkedIn profile. As part of some of her achievements, she wrote in the job's description that she "implemented a tool to get analytics of how around a million users are interacting with Ads Web App." Maydana also wanted to thank the people who helped her learn and grow: "I am grateful for having the opportunity to work with such brilliant people and in a product that billions of people are using daily." Her next challenge: finding out if she can get another job within the next 60 days of her grace period. Maydana is among thousands of other employees who have had their life upended amid mass layoffs sweeping across the tech industry. A Google engineer found out she had been laid off when her boss sent her a LinkedIn message while she was on vacation. Maydana didn't immediately respond to a request for comment by Insider, made outside normal working hours. Read the original article on Business Insider A look at the shareholders of Lancashire Holdings Limited (LON:LRE) can tell us which group is most powerful. We can see that institutions own the lion's share in the company with 64% ownership. That is, the group stands to benefit the most if the stock rises (or lose the most if there is a downturn). Since institutional have access to huge amounts of capital, their market moves tend to receive a lot of scrutiny by retail or individual investors. As a result, a sizeable amount of institutional money invested in a firm is generally viewed as a positive attribute. In the chart below, we zoom in on the different ownership groups of Lancashire Holdings. Check out our latest analysis for Lancashire Holdings What Does The Institutional Ownership Tell Us About Lancashire Holdings? Institutions typically measure themselves against a benchmark when reporting to their own investors, so they often become more enthusiastic about a stock once it's included in a major index. We would expect most companies to have some institutions on the register, especially if they are growing. As you can see, institutional investors have a fair amount of stake in Lancashire Holdings. This implies the analysts working for those institutions have looked at the stock and they like it. But just like anyone else, they could be wrong. If multiple institutions change their view on a stock at the same time, you could see the share price drop fast. It's therefore worth looking at Lancashire Holdings' earnings history below. Of course, the future is what really matters. Investors should note that institutions actually own more than half the company, so they can collectively wield significant power. It would appear that 5.1% of Lancashire Holdings shares are controlled by hedge funds. That catches my attention because hedge funds sometimes try to influence management, or bring about changes that will create near term value for shareholders. The company's largest shareholder is Baillie Gifford & Co., with ownership of 11%. For context, the second largest shareholder holds about 11% of the shares outstanding, followed by an ownership of 5.5% by the third-largest shareholder. Story continues On further inspection, we found that more than half the company's shares are owned by the top 9 shareholders, suggesting that the interests of the larger shareholders are balanced out to an extent by the smaller ones. While studying institutional ownership for a company can add value to your research, it is also a good practice to research analyst recommendations to get a deeper understand of a stock's expected performance. There are a reasonable number of analysts covering the stock, so it might be useful to find out their aggregate view on the future. Insider Ownership Of Lancashire Holdings The definition of an insider can differ slightly between different countries, but members of the board of directors always count. Company management run the business, but the CEO will answer to the board, even if he or she is a member of it. Insider ownership is positive when it signals leadership are thinking like the true owners of the company. However, high insider ownership can also give immense power to a small group within the company. This can be negative in some circumstances. Our most recent data indicates that insiders own less than 1% of Lancashire Holdings Limited. It is a pretty big company, so it would be possible for board members to own a meaningful interest in the company, without owning much of a proportional interest. In this case, they own around UK7.2m worth of shares (at current prices). It is always good to see at least some insider ownership, but it might be worth checking if those insiders have been selling. General Public Ownership The general public-- including retail investors -- own 31% stake in the company, and hence can't easily be ignored. While this size of ownership may not be enough to sway a policy decision in their favour, they can still make a collective impact on company policies. Next Steps: I find it very interesting to look at who exactly owns a company. But to truly gain insight, we need to consider other information, too. I like to dive deeper into how a company has performed in the past. You can find historic revenue and earnings in this detailed graph. Ultimately the future is most important. You can access this free report on analyst forecasts for the company. NB: Figures in this article are calculated using data from the last twelve months, which refer to the 12-month period ending on the last date of the month the financial statement is dated. This may not be consistent with full year annual report figures. Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned. Join A Paid User Research Session Youll receive a US$30 Amazon Gift card for 1 hour of your time while helping us build better investing tools for the individual investors like yourself. Sign up here Officials in several Massachusetts communities are waiting for Amazon Fresh supermarkets to open their doors, but some locals don't have all the answers as to when that's going to happen. Talk of Amazon Fresh locations opening in Billerica, Saugus, Westborough, Braintree and Leominster has been ongoing since last year but so far, none have opened in any of those locations. All are mostly built, however. Furthermore, the Amazon Fresh website lists no existing Massachusetts locations. More:Is Amazon Fresh coming to Leominster? Heres what we know so far about the project "I don't know what's going on, I just know it was plannedThere's nothing we know for sure," said Marlies Henderson, chairwoman of the Billerica Planning Board. "The project was completely permitted, so it's in the hands of the applicant (Amazon). The Planning Board hasn't heard anything lately." Brienne O'Rourke, a spokesperson for the Billerica Building Department, added, "As far as we know, they are still moving in." She noted officials are not sure about the timeline, however. Green-colored panels waiting to be installed for what will be an Amazon Fresh location at the former Shaw's Supermarkets at Watertower Plaza in Leominster. The Amazon Fresh store is supposed to be at the former Kmart location at the Billerica Mall. Meanwhile, in Saugus, Planning Board member Jeanette Meredith would like some concrete answers about the Amazon Fresh location on Route 1 as soon as possible. "Everyone keeps asking about it and we just don't know," Meredith said. "They were supposed to open last fall. Personally and professionally I would like to know what is going on. Why wouldn't you want to keep people informed?" That project was fully permitted in 2021, according to WCVB Channel 5, a Wicked Local media partner. 'No details to share' Jan. 26, Wicked Local sent an email to Amazon's media relations team conveying some of the questions that various town officials had. But Amazon spokesperson Jessica Martin responded by saying, "At this time, we dont have any details to share." When contacted about the same matter in early December, Amazon Fresh spokesperson Alicia Hopkins said, "We do not comment on our future roadmap We do not have any details to share at this time." Story continues A cart return shelter in the parking lot of a new Amazon Fresh grocery store that is scheduled to open soon in Saugus. Westborough Town Planner Jim Robbins said he is confident the project will happen in his town, as Amazon already has a big presence there. Other Amazon-owned locations in Westborough include Amazon Robotics, Amazon Hub Center, Amazon Hub Counter and Columbia Tech Amazon Robotics. Robbins said the Amazon Fresh project is "completely permitted. "To my knowledge, they are still going to open, we just can't say exactly when," Robbins said. "The building facade is up. There's no sign yet, but everyone seems to know what it's going to be." Robbins stressed he is pretty sure that the forthcoming Amazon Fresh location will happen, despite any rumors to the contrary. "There is no indication that they (Amazon) are slowing down," he said. Robbins added that a grocery store can typically take up to two years from permitting to opening doors for business. "It depends, really," he said. "A store with an open floor plan that just needs shelving will take less time than a grocery store that needs to install refrigeration," and other more complex systems. He said that in theory, "Amazon Fresh grocery stores are much different than conventional grocery stores." Robbins said he was informed the company is currently working on installing shelving in its Westborough location. The hours of operation on the website for the Westborough location read "TBA" for every day of the week. Other Amazon Fresh locations that are supposedly on the way include one in Braintree and another in Leominster. Neither of those has opened either, and like the others, each has been in the process for some time. A site plan was submitted Jan. 3, 2022, to the Braintree Planning Board for building an Amazon Fresh at 200 Grossman Drive. Another plan was filed to adjust signage at the facility May 5, 2022, but nothing thereafter, according to the Braintree town website. More:Amazon Fresh, apartments to replace Market Basket Currently, the Amazon Fresh locations listed on the company's website include those in California, Illinois, New York, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Washington state, Washington, D.C., and New Jersey. How shopping works at Amazon Fresh Amazon Fresh offers a unique way of shopping, according to the company website, describing it as "an online and physical grocery store," offering "low prices on everyday favorites, plus same-day delivery and pickup in select locations for (Amazon) Prime members." Amazon Fresh grocery stores feature "just-walk-out" technology and "Amazon Dash Carts." Amazon Fresh grocery stores uses Just Walk Out technology. Customers scan their Amazon apps to enter the store. Once inside, customers can add items to a smart cart, which tallies up totals as shopping progresses. And instead of stopping at a cashier to check out, customers again scan the app and the cart charges the total to the customer's Amazon account. Amazon's voice-activated assistant, Alexa, adds to the technology used in the store. Customers can approach Alexa kiosks throughout the store to ask for item locations or food recommendations. This article originally appeared on Telegram & Gazette: Mass. officials have questions on unopened Amazon Fresh locations HUA HIN, Thailand Lesia Tsurenko of Ukraine reached her first final in four years after the top-seeded Bianca Andreescu retired with a shoulder injury during their semifinal match at the Thailand Open. Tsurenko, in search of her fifth WTA title, was leading the 2019 U.S. Open champion 7-5, 4-0 when the Canadian stopped playing. The former world No. 23 fought from 3-5 down to take the first set and reeled off eight straight games before Andreescu retired with a right shoulder problem. Bianca is such an amazing player. She is capable of hitting all kinds of shots and gave so much trouble today, said the 33-year-old Tsurenko, now ranked 136th. But I was just fighting and I told myself positive things that I can do it. Unfortunately, she had to retire. The Ukrainian last lifted a WTA trophy in Acapulco in 2018 and hasnt been to a final since Brisbane in 2019. She will face Zhu Lin of China in the final. She had some good wins in the Australian Open, Tsurenko said. She is one of the dangerous players in this tournament. She is going to give a good fight. In the all-Chinese semifinal earlier, Zhu benefited from a barrage of unforced errors from Wang Xinyu and prevailed 6-2, 6-4 for her first WTA final. The world No. 54 player, who reached the last 16 at the Australian Open in January, relied on her solid baseline game to force errors. It was very windy, so I tried to be patient and keep my first serves in, said the 29-year-old Zhu, who will team up with Wang in the doubles final against Hao-Ching Chan and Fang-Hsien Wu of Taiwan. Lesia Tsurenko to face Zhu Lin in Thailand Open final originally appeared on NBCSports.com Orange County firefighter Stephanie Nixon is raising money and inspiring others one step at a time. On Feb. 18, hundreds of firefighters, law enforcement officers and community members will take part in the Orlando Fight for Air Climb. >>> STREAM CHANNEL 9 EYEWITNESS NEWS LIVE <<< During the annual events, participants will climb 25 flights or 512 steps to the top of the City National Building. Funds raised from the Fight for Air Climb support the mission of the American Lung Association and their efforts to defeat lung cancer, champion clean air, improve the quality of life for those with lung disease and their families, and create a tobacco-free future. Nixon said that her very first challenge as part of the candidates physical abilities test to become a firefighter was to climb a certain number of stairs, within a specific time while wearing 75 lbs. of gear. That very first time I tried, and I failed, Nixon said. After that, with motivational support from one of my mentors Jason Wheat, a few weeks of rigorous training, and sheer willpower, I did it! Read: Orlando has some of the most overpriced homes in the country, report says This will be Nixons second time participating in this event and is working to raise more money than any local firefighter has raised before. Nixons training includes 100 flights of stairs a day and she encourages others to join her through a daily challenge on social media. Every day I see people with respiratory issues, said Nixon. We see firsthand how important it is to stay active, lead a healthy life and support those that may not be able to help themselves. Read: SeaWorld announces culinary dishes, concert lineup for Seven Seas Food Festival If I can do it, anyone can, Nixon added. The American Lung Association has continued admiration for all our local firefighters and emergency responders, and we are thankful for their continued support of the Fight for Air Climb, said John Rendle, chair of this years climb. The inclusion of firefighters and first responders like Stephanie from across Central Florida is what makes this event so unique. And this year to add to the excitement, we will feature the Austin Duran Firefighter Challenge, honoring our first responders impacted by lung disease. Story continues Registration is $35 and includes a $100 fundraising minimum. To learn more and register for the Orlando Fight for Air Climb, CLICK HERE. Read: Bed Bath & Beyond to close 87 more stores Click here to download the free WFTV news and weather apps, click here to download the WFTV Now app for your smart TV and click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live. David Tennant issued a passionate defence of strikes during an appearance on The Last Leg this week. The Scottish Doctor Who star also took aim at the Conservative government, describing the UKs ruling party as f***wits. Partway through Fridays (3 February) episode of the Channel 4 comedy series, Tennant was asked whether he supported the strikes that have been carried out across various industries, including rail and NHS workers. Of course, Tennant responded. Its just the sense that... after everything thats gone on, through the pandemic, that nurses are having to go on strike to be paid what theyre worth... It makes you want to spit, doesnt it? He then went on to criticise the Tory governments handling of the strikes, with discussion turning to Rishi Sunaks 100-days-in-office milestone. Youve got Rishi going, Listen, wed love to give them a pay rise, wed absolutely love to, but unfortunately, mad Queen Liz put the economy in a dumpster fire, so my hands are tied, he said. He quickly clarified that he was referring to short-tenured prime minister Liz Truss, and not the late Queen Elizabeth II. Its the lack of accountability, Tennant continued. Theyre going, Theres nothing we can do, because the last Prime Minister, whos got nothing to do with us f***ed it all up! Theyre all the same team of f***wits! he added. David Tennant on The Last Leg' (Channel 4) Series host Adam Hills then asked him who he wished to see running the country, to which Tennant replied: Somebody. Tennants remarks prompted loud cheers from the studio audience. Earlier this week, Labour Party leader Sir Keir Starmer described Sunak as pathetic for attempting to blame Labour for the mass industrial action. After 13 years in power, trying to blame the Labour Party for his failure to sort out the strikes is rank pathetic. The Tory Partys addiction to sleaze and scandal has done huge damage to this country and the cost to the public keeps adding up, he said in parliament. The prime minister replied: [Starmer] cant stand up to his union bosses, he cant stand up for Britains schoolchildren today and he cant stand up for the women in his party. This week saw teachers, train drivers, civil servants, university lecturers, bus drivers and security guards go on strike, with union bosses accusing the government of frustrating negotiations on pay deals. The man accused of stealing two emperor tamarin monkeys from the Dallas Zoo is also linked with the tampering of the zoos clouded leopard and langur monkey exhibits, authorities said Friday. Davion Irvin, 24, had plans to swipe more animals before he was arrested Thursday and booked on suspicion of burglary and animal cruelty crimes, police said. Pictures of a man had been circulated throughout North Texas, and an employee at The Dallas World Aquarium recognized him Thursday at the facility, aquarium spokesperson Waylon Tate said in a statement. The suspect stopped an employee "to ask questions regarding one of our animals" and that worker "immediately recognized Mr. Irvin from prior reporting on the incident involving the suspected theft of two emperor tamarin monkeys," Tate said. Those questions included "means and ways to catch animals, according to a police affidavit supporting Irvins arrest warrant. After authorities were called, approaching officers spotted Irvin boarding a Dallas Area Rapid Transit train before he was taken into custody, Dallas police spokesperson Kristin Lowman said. Authorities had also used facial recognition programs to identify him, the affidavit stated. Officials said a motive remains under investigation, but the suspect was never an employee of the zoo. "Its been an unbelievable three weeks for all of us at the zoo, and its unprecedented whats happened here," Dallas Zoo President and CEO Gregg Hudson told reporters Friday afternoon. "Were truly thankful to a lot of folks who have helped us and assisted us." The emperor tamarin monkeys were reported stolen from their habitats at the Dallas Zoo on Monday. Police said they know how Irvin took and transported the animals but declined to reveal the details. Police credited tips from the public with leading them to the monkeys, Bella and Finn, who were found Tuesday contained in a bathroom inside an empty home in nearby Lancaster. Story continues The animals were not harmed, officials said. Bella and Finn lost weight and were being kept in quarantine as a precaution, the zoo said. They were found on the property of a church on Gerry Way Street in Lancaster, across the street from "Suspect Irvin's family house," according to the police affidavit. Inside, there were multiple cats and pigeons, animal feces and deceased animals," the affidavit stated. Authorities also found items that had been stolen from the facility last month, including fish flake food for otters and feeder fish. The monkeys' disappearance was the latest in a string of suspicious incidents at the zoo. On Jan. 21, a 35-year-old endangered vulture, Pin, was found dead with what authorities have described as an unusual wound. The animals cause of death has not been determined. On Jan. 13, Nova, a 3-year-old clouded leopard, escaped her wire mesh enclosure after it was cut, authorities have said. The cat, who the zoo said posed no danger to the public, was found later that day. A similar cut was found in the zoos langur monkey habitat, police said. No animals escaped or were taken or harmed. Irvin is accused of two counts of burglary, five counts of cruelty to nonlivestock animals and one count of cruelty to livestock animals, jail records showed. The suspect was booked into custody late Thursday being held in lieu of $25,000 bail, jail records showed. The investigation into the death of the vulture is still ongoing He has not been linked to that case at this time, Lowman said. Whats important to realize is the monkeys are back. Were looking into the case with the vulture now, and we have charges filed in three of the four cases now. Irvin had been spotted at the zoo in recent days asking questions about animals which included queries about the status and location of the recently escaped and relocated/captured Clouded Leopard, according to the police affidavit. Police feared that if he was not caught, there would have been further offenses of theft, the affidavit said. We do believe that he was looking to commit another crime, Lowman said. "That's why it is very important that we took him into custody." The zoo has tightened security measures, adding more overnight guards and cameras, and it offered a $10,000 reward for information leading to an arrest and an indictment in the incidents, police said. Authorities thanked the public for phoning crucial information that ended in the suspects arrest. We say to people all the time, that one bit of information that you have can help us to make a break in the case, Lowman said. Irvin made his initial appearance before a magistrate Friday afternoon, said Dallas County Chief Public Defender Lynn Richardson, who declined any further comment on behalf of her client. This article was originally published on NBCNews.com You dont need to have a regular cocktail hour established before you look into stocking a home bar with a bartending kit. These come in handy for impromptu mocktails for the kids but are also helpful for exploring the world of mixology. Your bartender kit can be as simple or elaborate as you like. It all depends on which direction youd like to take your home drink program. When youre ready to dive all the way in and set up your home bar like a professional mixologist, the Kitessensu Cocktail Shaker Set is the one for you. What to know before you buy a bartender kit Type of cocktail shaker The best bartender kit starts with a cocktail shaker. These are used to combine alcohol and mixers for a good healthy shake or a vigorous stir. There are three types to choose from. Cobbler shakers: Cobbler shakers have three parts to them that make them a good choice for bars with limited space: the shaker body, a strainer and a cap. Boston shaker: A Boston shaker is actually two vessels, with one that fits into the other. French shaker: If your bar is a bit more upscale and youd like some luxury, the French shaker resembles a Boston shaker but is a little more refined. Capacity When you are ready to progress beyond punch bowl drinks and into something more sophisticated, you might still need a larger capacity shaker. Shakers range between 18 and 28 ounces, but keep in mind youll need to account for ice and mixers. At right around 24 ounces, the average shaker can mix two or three drinks at one time. If youre mixing for one, though, a small shaker works best. Material Stainless steel and glass are the primary materials of most bartender kits, but they are also available in copper. Stainless steel: Stainless steel bartending tools are classic, sturdy and rust-resistant. They can also be coated with a variety of finishes, so even if your tools are stainless steel you can still select rose gold or matte black finishes. Keep in mind that a stainless steel shaker becomes cold as you shake. Glass: A glass cocktail shaker is refined and lovely to use, but it can be fragile. As you shake, condensation makes it slippery and can lead to disaster. Copper: Pure copper tools are beautiful and luxurious, but they require specific care that may make them more challenging. If you like the look of copper without the maintenance, consider a copper finish over stainless steel. Bartender kit features Recipes Newbie bartenders should look for a bartender kit that has recipes for cocktails and mocktails included. Experimentation is great, but its also good to know a few basics before you start. Storage Nothing is worse than a sideboard or counter cluttered with various bartending tools. The best kits have neat and tidy storage that looks attractive on the counter and takes up very little space. They come in a range of materials, but the most common are bamboo and metal. Tools you need Before you select the best bartender kit for you, consider what tools you need for the drinks youd like to try. Some bartender kits are very elaborate, while others are just a shaker and a stirring spoon. Other tools you might enjoy using include: Strainer Muddler Stirrer Liquor pourers/spouts Jiggers Tongs Straws Whiskey stones Smoking tools and wood Wine key/corkscrew Bartender kit cost The price of a kit varies depending on the material of the kit, the storage option and whats included. Expect to spend $30-$65. Bartender kit FAQ Is one shaker better than another for beginning mixologists? A. Professional bartenders definitely have their own preferences, but beginners might want to stick with a cobbler-style shaker. This simple two-piece tool is easy to use and has fewer moving parts. simply add your ingredients to one end of the shaker, cover them with the other and shake away. What cocktails are best for beginners to learn? A. The best cocktail for beginners to learn is the one they most enjoy drinking. After that, there are a few cocktails to practice, including: Dry martinis (stirred, not shaken) Cuba libre Screwdriver Old-fashioned Manhattan Which bartender kit should I get? Best of the best bartender kit Kitessensu Cocktail Shaker Set: available at Amazon Our take: This is an elegant, compact and complete bartender kit. What we like: It has everything for a home bar, and then some. The lightweight bamboo stand holds a cobbler-style shaker, multiple liquor spouts, a strainer, two straws and a brush to clean them, a corkscrew, ice tongs, a long-handled mixing spoon, a double-sided jigger and a muddler. Log on to the website for recipes, and choose from three finishes. This also comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee. What we dislike: Check carefully when you get your kit. Some people reported missing pieces. Best bang for your buck bartender kit Nuvantee Cocktail Shaker Set: available at Amazon Our take: This simple set has everything you need to start mixing cocktails. What we like: The Boston-style shaker has a built-in strainer. It comes with a double-sided jigger that measures 1 ounce on one end and a half-ounce on the other. Its made of durable, lightweight stainless steel. Recipes are available online. What we dislike: Hold onto the cap when mixing. Some users report leaking or an insecure fit. Honorable mention bartender kit Kingrow Cocktail Shaker Set: available at Amazon Our take: This budget bartender kit doesnt skimp on the tools. What we like: It has 23 different tools for a complete home bar. It includes a cocktail shaker, spoon, straws, recipes, corkscrew and whiskey stones. Choose from four finishes (silver, black, gold, rose gold), and store everything in a sleek black acrylic holder. What we dislike: The stand could be sturdier. Want to shop the best products at the best prices? Check out Daily Deals from BestReviews. Sign up here to receive the BestReviews weekly newsletter for useful advice on new products and noteworthy deals. Suzannah Kolbeck is a writer for BestReviews. BestReviews is a product review company with a singular mission: to help simplify your purchasing decisions and save you time and money. BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. BestReviews and its newspaper partners may earn a commission if you purchase a product through one of our links. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. An ex-con described as next level crazy has been apprehended for an ugly beatdown of a beloved, 90-year-old East Village candy store owner, police said Saturday. Luis Perozo, 39, was charged with assault after he was grabbed up by cops late Friday, NYPD officials said. Perozo was wanted for attacking Ray Alvarez, who has owned Rays Candy Store on Avenue A since 1974. Alvarez was left with a black eye and a gnarly wound under his left ear following the early-Tuesday attack. Detectives told Alvarez about the arrest late Friday, said Gabe Thorne, who works at the shop and was also a victim in the 3 a.m. assault. A woman named Stella, who claims shes Alvarezs wife, said he was happy to hear about the bust and is on the mend. Hes much better, she said. He needs rest. Last night was a party over here, Thorne, 44, told the Daily News Saturday. Were very relieved... extremely relieved that everyones done their job and were going to keep doing our jobs and this guy stays where he needs to be. Alvarez was resting at home Saturday, but was doing great, Thorne said. He is extremely optimistic. Perozo lives near the candy store. Dressed in a black knit hat, a blue coat and black sweatpants with red stripes running along the side, Perozo denied attacking Alvarez as he was escorted out of the 9th Precinct stationhouse in handcuffs Saturday. No! he said when asked if he committed the crime. Deputy Inspector Ralph Clement, the commanding officer of the 9th Precinct, announced the arrest on Twitter. We informed Ray that we identified and apprehended the perpetrator responsible for this heinous crime, Clement posted Special thanks to Warrants Section, 9th Detective Squad, and Intelligent Division. Perozo and a second man approached Alvarez near E. 7th St. wanting to sell him some La Croix seltzer, cops and witnesses said. When the elderly merchant declined, the suspect threatened to kill him and whipped the nonagenarian in the face with a belt that had a rock affixed to the buckle. Story continues One of the two men also punched Thorne as he tried to intervene, Alvarez told The News. One of them hit [my employee] in the chest and the other guy said, Hold this, I want to kill this bastard, recalled Alvarez. He took something that looked like a belt with a stone on it and he swung and hit me in the head. I fell down on the floor outside I was bleeding and bleeding. Perozo ran off, but was caught on surveillance cameras two blocks away pushing a purple shopping cart filled with items, cops said. The assailant evaded authorities for three days, but Alvarez was back at his store in just a few a few hours. I was shaken up really bad, but I came back, he said. I had an ice cream delivery and I had a lot of things to do. Thorne said one of the attackers asked Alvarez, Do you believe in Satan? right before the beating. Ray didnt really know what he was talking about, Thorne said. And the guy was really weird... It was next-level crazy. Once the surveillance photos of Perozo were released Thursday, people in the neighborhood started recognizing him, Thorne said, speculating that the assailant may be mentally ill. Hes been all around, he said. Theres just a lot of mental health [issues] and a lot of bad intentions for others. When something like this happens, you have to grieve and recognize this is our reality. Perozo has an extensive criminal history dating back to the early 2000s, but most of his arrests were for criminal mischief and petty larceny, police sources said. He served five years in prison after he was convicted for an assault in the Bronx in 2003 and was paroled in 2008, according to court records. Four years later his parole ended. Before he was arrested for pummeling Alvarez, he was busted on criminal mischief and petty larceny charges in August 2021, cops said. The driver accused in the Carlstadt hit-and-run that left a Secaucus woman dead in mid-January will be subject to home detention, a judge decided on Friday. Justinian Cuevasmetemi, 70, of Passaic, was arrested Jan. 21 after he allegedly fled the scene of the crash that killed pedestrian Deborah Peko-Lillis. Peko-Lillis was crossing Hoboken Road in Carlstadt when she was struck by the 2017 Toyota RAV-4 allegedly being driven by Cuevasmetemi. She worked in the advancement office of St. Peter's Prep in Jersey City beginning in 2010, the year her son, Kyle, graduated from the school. Cuevasmetemi's attorney Adam Richmond Conrad and Bergen County Prosecutor Christine Howland told Judge James Sattely that they agreed on the defendant's release and home detention with the condition he surrender his driver's license and passport. Cuevasmetemi may not leave his house unless he is attending work, a doctor's appointment, a meeting with his attorney, pretrial services or appearing in court. North Jersey newsThe Manor catering hall in West Orange is closing for good after 66 years Bergen CountyOne found dead, others injured after Midland Park house fire He questioned Sattely on how he was supposed to receive groceries or get to places and the judge told him he would have to find a way to make arrangements with his daughter or take public transportation. "You are not permitted to drive a car at all or any type of vehicle while these charges are pending," Sattely told Cuevasmetemi. Cuevasmetemi was charged with second-degree leaving the scene of a motor vehicle accident resulting in death, and third-degree endangering an injured victim. He was also served with multiple motor vehicle summonses. In a statement from St. Peter's Prep President Michael Gomez, he said Peko-Lillis was a dedicated member of its staff and "left her mark" on everyone with her "tremendous and generous heart." "Our love and prayers are with Debbies family in this difficult time," Gomez said. She is survived by her husband, Bill Lillis; her son Kyle, and his wife Andrea; granddaughter Francesca Rose Lillis; her brother, James Peko, and sisters-in-law, according to her obituary. This article originally appeared on NorthJersey.com: Carlstadt NJ hit-and-run suspect released to home detention The San Bernardino County coroner's office has determined that a jawbone left at the San Bernardino Police Department belonged to a human. (Rick Sforza / Associated Press) A man walked into the San Bernardino Police Department on Thursday, dropped off some body parts, and left. He left "what appeared to be deceased animal remains" and a lower jawbone at the department's public counter, according to authorities. The Police Department said in a statement that "it was unclear at the time if the remains were real." They were. After the man left, police called the San Bernardino County coroner's office, which determined that, yes, the jawbone belonged to a human. But the delivery man was gone. His identity? A mystery. On Thursday, police released a photo of a bearded man in blue jeans walking with what looks to be a package in his left hand. Police including a homicide sergeant listed on the news release did not immediately respond to calls for comment. On Friday afternoon, the Police Department said in a tweet that a man had been located and identified. No other details were immediately available. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. A New Jersey man pleaded guilty Feb. 2 to using the cryptocurrency bitcoin to hire a hit man through a dark net murder-for-hire site, officials said. The man, 31-year-old John Michael Musbach, spent 40 bitcoin, the equivalent of $20,000, on the site meant to facilitate contract killings, officials said. Musbachs target was a 14-year-old with whom authorities said he had exchanged sexually explicit photographs. Officials said Musbach first began exchanging inappropriate photographs and videos with the teen, who was 13 at the time, in summer 2015. When the childs parents discovered the contact with Musbach over the internet, officials said they reached out to their local police. In March 2016, officials say Musbach was arrested by the Atlantic County police on charges of child pornography. At this point, Musbach decided to have the victim killed so that the victim could not testify against him in the pending criminal case, officials said. Over a period of 13 days in May 2016, officials said Musbach regularly communicated with the administrator of a dark net murder-for-hire site. The website said it offered contract killings or other acts of violence in return for payment in cryptocurrency, according to officials. Musbach arranged for a murder-for-hire for the teen through the site, officials said, and when he asked if 14 was too young for a target, he was told it wouldnt be a problem. Officials said Musbach paid the bitcoin and kept messaging the administrator of the site asking when the hit would happen. Musbach was then asked for an additional $5,000 to ensure the hit took place. Musbach decided to cancel the hit instead and asked the administrator for a refund, officials said, and then the site administrator told Musbach the site was a scam. The administrator threatened to give Musbachs information to law enforcement, according to officials. Musbach is charged with using interstate commerce facilities in the commission of murder-for-hire, which carries a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison and a fine of $250,000 or greater. Story continues Officials said Musbach will be sentenced for the murder-for-hire charges June 13. If you have experienced sexual assault and need someone to talk to, call the National Sexual Assault Hotline for support at 1-800-656-4673 or visit the hotline's online chatroom. Box of Gain hid 4 pounds of meth given to undercover cop at Burger King, feds say Pizzeria chef was actually accused Italian mobster on the run for 16 years, cops say Patient has heart attack after paramedics give wrong drug in ambulance, lawsuit says Man killed girlfriend and her friend when he found them having sex, Wisconsin cops say Legal marijuana sales in Maryland to begin July 1 ANNAPOLIS, Md. (AP) Maryland is working toward creating a recreational marijuana industry with greater social equity, lawmakers said Friday, with more licenses for minority-owned businesses and proceeds directed to areas adversely impacted by the war on drugs. The measure before the General Assembly, which is controlled by Democrats, will enable the states existing medical marijuana businesses to sell recreational cannabis as well if they pay a new fee based on the size of the business. Those businesses could begin selling recreational marijuana as soon as July 1, the soonest recreational cannabis can legally be sold in the state. Supporters stressed that the bill was based on creating a safe market that could help communities and ensure minorities would have the opportunity to enter the industry. Del. C.T. Wilson, who chairs the Maryland House Economic Matters Committee, and Del. Vanessa Atterbeary, who chairs the House Ways and Means Committee, talk about legislation to create a regulatory framework for recreational marijuana in the state in Annapolis, Md., on Friday, Feb. 3, 2023. (AP Photo/Brian Witte) The goal in Maryland wasnt to get our Marylanders high, Del. C.T. Wilson, a Democrat who chairs the Maryland House Economic Matters Committee, said Friday. It was to take cannabis out of the criminal stream of commerce, protect young Black men from being arrested and dying and, additionally, give back to the communities that were most disproportionately impacted by the war on drugs. Minority participation has been a priority to lawmakers in a state that has become a majority-minority state, according to the 2020 census. The rollout of Marylands medical marijuana industry was strongly criticized for its paucity of minority-owned business participation, and lawmakers pledged to bring greater care to an issue that has also been hard to resolve in other states. I think in this country, less than 2% of cannabis participants are minorities less than two, Wilson said. Our goal is to hit 30% within a year and a half. Were going to be representational of Maryland. That is our goal, to make sure that we provide access to all Marylanders, minorities included. New licenses for growers, dispensaries and processors will be made available in two different rounds. Story continues The rounds are intentionally built for those social equity applicants to be able to participate, and then I would say additionally in the revenue generation side, 30% of the revenues will be allocated specifically for impacted communities, Senate President Bill Ferguson told reporters during a media availability Friday morning. Maryland voters approved a constitutional amendment in November with 67% of the vote to legalize recreational marijuana for people 21 and over as soon as July 1. However, lawmakers left details about regulation, licensing and taxation to be taken up this legislative session. Possession of up to 1.5 ounces of marijuana will be legal by people 21 and over. The measure, which is about 100 pages, includes a 6% tax in the next fiscal year. It would go up 1% each year to maximum of 10% in fiscal year 2028. Medical marijuana would remain untaxed. Gov. Wes Moore, a Democrat who is the states first Black governor, also has underscored the importance of minority participation in the expanded industry. Last month, he released about $46 million relating to implementing recreational cannabis in Maryland. That included about $40 million for the Cannabis Business Assistance Fund, which is intended to support the growth of small, minority, and women-owned businesses in the recreational cannabis industry. For the new licenses, priority would be given to minority owners in communities disproportionately affected when marijuana was illegal, under the legislation. To qualify, applicants would have to have either lived in such a community for five to 10 years or attended a public school for five years in one of those communities, Wilson said. Before Maryland and Missouri voters decided to legalize marijuana in November, 19 other states, along with the District of Columbia, had fully legalized marijuana. Also in November, three other states Arkansas, North Dakota, and South Dakota rejected marijuana legalization ballot measures. TheGrio is FREE on your TV via Apple TV, Amazon Fire, Roku and Android TV. Also, please download theGrio mobile apps today! The post Maryland marijuana measure prioritizes social equity appeared first on TheGrio. Have you seen this ogre? Police in Massachusetts have launched an investigation into a missing 200-pound statue of Shrek, the beloved ogre from the 2001 movie of the same name, CNN reported. This approximate 200 lb cement SHREK SCULPTURE has gone MISSING from his home on MOUNTAIN RD, the Hatfield Police Department said in a Facebook post on Wednesday. If you have any information of his current whereabouts, please reach out to our department or return him in the condition you found him. The Hatfield Police Department is asking for any information related to the dissapearance of this 200-pound Shrek statue. The Hatfield Police Department is asking for any information related to the dissapearance of this 200-pound Shrek statue. The department added that the dragon sculpture he lives with is frustrated and lonely. Shrek enjoys swamps and the 1999 banger All Star by Smash Mouth. However, his best friend, Donkey, and wife, Fiona, have been ruled out as suspects. If you have any information on the disappearance of the Shrek statue, contact the Hatfield Police Department immediately. Related... Memphis police chief Cerelyn "C.J." Davis. AP Photo/Adrian Sainz Memphis police chief Cerelyn "C.J." Davis swiftly fired the police officers who beat Tyre Nichols. For years, Davis has positioned herself as a champion of police reform. But critics who spoke with Insider say they're unsure how committed she is to it. Memphis police chief Cerelyn "C.J." Davis widely praised for taking swift action against the five officers who beat Tyre Nichols has for years positioned herself as a champion of police reform. In 2020, as chief of the Durham Police Department in North Carolina, she testified before the US Senate Judiciary Committee on the use of force by police, condemning the murder of George Floyd and addressing the "systemic shortcomings and oftentimes failures of our law-enforcement and criminal-justice systems." That same year, she appeared on national news outlets like ABC's "Good Morning America" as an expert on police reform. "If your idea of a police chief is a gruff, cigar-chomping tough guy, then you need to meet C.J. Davis," Megyn Kelly said in 2017. Last month, Davis denounced her own Memphis officers after footage surfaced of them beating 29-year-old Nichols, who died three days later. Soon after, she fired five officers who were later charged with Nichols' murder. Nichols' family praised her response, and the renowned civil-rights attorney Ben Crump called her actions a "blueprint" for justice. But those who've watched the arc of Davis' law-enforcement career from police departments in Atlanta to Durham to Memphis say she has protected bad cops and empowered elite units that became abusive. When the Memphis Police Department later revealed that a white police officer involved in the incident had been put on paid leave, Crump suggested the department had "shielded and protected" him. Some wonder if Davis is truly interested in police reform. "She's presented herself as very polished and diplomatic in her presentation, but that doesn't change the substance of the philosophy that she uses," said Earle Fisher, a Memphis-based pastor who's campaigned against police brutality for more than a decade. Story continues Davis and the Memphis Police Department did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Davis created, then disbanded, the Scorpion Unit The officers who beat Nichols were part of an elite police group called the Scorpion Unit, an acronym for the Street Crimes Operation to Restore Peace in Our Neighborhoods Unit. The group consisted of about 50 officers who patrolled known hot spots for crime and suspected gang activity. Davis founded the unit and had praised it for removing hundreds of illegal guns from the street and making thousands of felony arrests. On January 27, Nichols' family attorneys publicly called for Scorpion's dissolution, and a day later, Davis complied. Davis had to have known that an elite police unit like Scorpion would empower officers in the group to "break the law, use excessive force, and feel that they can act with impunity," said the Atlanta-based attorney Dan Grossman, who represented plaintiffs affected by police brutality while Davis rose up the ranks in the Atlanta Police Department. Grossman successfully represented several plaintiffs who said they had been assaulted by officers who were part of Atlanta's Red Dog unit, which Davis oversaw from 2006 to 2007, according to a copy of her resume made available by the Durham government. Red Dog was formed with the goal of targeting street crimes and drug use. The unit was the subject of a series of lawsuits and later disbanded. One lawsuit, filed by Grossman in 2009, alleged that Atlanta officers, some of whom were part of the Red Dog unit, stormed a gay bar undercover and "began screaming at patrons and employees to 'hit the floor' and get down on the ground." "Police officers shoved some of the patrons ... to the ground and pressed their boots" into their backs, the lawsuit says. Some of the bargoers were lying on the floor with spilled beer and broken glass, according to the lawsuit. Like the Scorpion unit, Red Dog was a specialized police unit that provided aggressive police presence in high-crime areas, Grossman said. She "saw, observed, knew what happens when you create a unit like Red Dog," Grossman said. The Memphis Police Department did not immediately return Insider's request for comment. Fired, then rehired Davis was fired from the Atlanta Police Department in July 2008, according to a document from the Atlanta Civil Service Board, an all-citizen group designed to address issues brought up by city employees, ranging from acts of retaliation to firings. The firing followed an investigation into a sex crime involving children and an Atlanta police sergeant's husband, according to the CBS affiliate WREG. Another officer came across dozens of sexually explicit photos featuring girls aged 12 to 15 posing with the sergeant's husband, WREG reported. These girls, WREG said, had been paid by the husband. The officers passed on those photos to senior leadership at the Atlanta Police Department, and the FBI investigated the case. Two detectives said they informed Davis, the unit commander at the time, of the existence of the photos, and she indicated to them that they should stop investigating. "Cut it," she told them, per WREG. When she was interviewed as part of the investigation, a computer voice-stress analyzer detected "deception" in her voice, according to WREG. Davis was fired, but she successfully appealed the termination and was reinstated to the same position three months later. She stayed in Atlanta for eight more years, rising the ranks and to eventually become deputy chief. In 2016, she was hired as the Durham police chief. When she stepped into the role, the city had been facing mounting criticism because of increasing crime rates and a lack of trust in the police, wrote Derek A. Epp, Frank Baumgartner, and Kelsey Shoub, the authors of a 2018 book analyzing every traffic stop in North Carolina over a 14-year period. Davis was brought in and instructed to "rebuild trust in the community," they wrote. During her tenure, she implemented a series of changes to the way police officers interact with citizens, including requiring body cameras and changing the mandate from arrest to citation for some marijuana offenses. She also made a big push against gangs in 2020, after reports of gun violence rose sharply. From Durham to Memphis When she took over the Memphis Police Department in 2021, organizers and activists were skeptical. Fisher pointed out that Davis was handpicked by Memphis' mayor, Jim Strickland, a Democrat who vowed during his mayoral campaign to expand the police force. Strickland's office did not immediately return Insider's request for comment. "He's been hell-bent for the last eight years on hiring more police officers and trying to maneuver around many other reforms that activists and organizers and everyday people have been on the ground requesting," Fisher said. "So I didn't think that she would be some progressive reformer. I thought that she would probably be somebody who would help to execute that framework and philosophy and strategy." While Fisher may have had his doubts about Davis, the pastor fears she might become a scapegoat for systemic issues that plague law enforcement in the city and the country as a whole. "If we aren't careful, she'll be isolated as the fall girl," Fisher said, adding that the real issue is redefining the country's expectations for public safety. Read the original article on Insider Mentions of the "metaverse" were relatively few and far between in Meta's quarterly earnings call this week we counted a mere seven mentions compared to 23 for "AI" but the company's investment into its vision of a VR-connected social future remains colossal. Starting in 2021, Meta began breaking out its Reality Labs VR and AR division into its own segment for financial reporting purposes. That makes it possible to see just how much Meta is pouring into those areas, and the numbers are staggering. Meta reported $13.7 billion in operating losses for Reality Labs for 2022, more than the already jaw-dropping $10.2 billion it sunk into the division in 2021. Reality Labs brought in $2.16 billion last year in revenue, a drop from $2.27 billion in 2021. For scope, remember that Meta bought Oculus the pioneering VR hardware company that formed a groundwork for its efforts for $2 billion back in 2014. The company's investment in the area has only escalated, with the company picking up a number of major software companies including Beat Saber's creator and now Within, developer of the virtual workout app Supernatural. Meta hasn't disclosed its headcount numbers for Reality Labs, but the company reportedly had 17,000 employees in the division prior to layoffs late last year. Staffing and hardware development account for the lion's share of the cash it's spent in the area. Meta CFO Susan Li said that the company expects its annual losses for Reality Labs to be even higher in 2023. "...We're going to continue to invest meaningfully in this area given the significant long-term opportunities that we see," Li said, calling its AR, VR and metaverse software efforts "a long-duration investment." Meta plans to launch a next-generation consumer headset later in 2023, like a revamped version of its Quest hardware featuring mixed reality. Apple, one of the only consumer-focused companies poised to compete with Meta in the sector, is widely expected to launch a new AR/VR headset soon. Story continues In this week's earnings call, Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg emphasized the fact that Reality Labs encompasses AR, VR and metaverse-related software (Horizon Worlds, etc.) at the company. "I think the software and social platform might be the most critical part of what we're doing, but software is just a lot less capital intensive to build than the hardware," Zuckerberg said. Meta may publicly de-emphasize its metaverse efforts to please skeptical investors, but the company appears ready to the stay the course on VR and AR. "... None of the signals that I've seen so far suggests that we should shift the Reality Labs strategy long term," Zuckerberg said. "We are constantly adjusting the specifics of how we execute this, so I think that we'll certainly look at that as part of the ongoing efficiency work." MetLife (NYSE:MET) Full Year 2022 Results Key Financial Results Revenue: US$69.9b (down 1.7% from FY 2021). Net income: US$2.35b (down 63% from FY 2021). Profit margin: 3.4% (down from 8.9% in FY 2021). The decrease in margin was primarily driven by higher expenses. EPS: US$2.91 (down from US$7.36 in FY 2021). All figures shown in the chart above are for the trailing 12 month (TTM) period MetLife Revenues and Earnings Miss Expectations Revenue missed analyst estimates by 1.9%. Earnings per share (EPS) also missed analyst estimates by 2.5%. Looking ahead, revenue is forecast to grow 2.1% p.a. on average during the next 3 years, compared to a 5.3% growth forecast for the Insurance industry in the US. Performance of the American Insurance industry. The company's shares are down 3.1% from a week ago. Risk Analysis We should say that we've discovered 2 warning signs for MetLife that you should be aware of before investing 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. Join A Paid User Research Session Youll receive a US$30 Amazon Gift card for 1 hour of your time while helping us build better investing tools for the individual investors like yourself. Sign up here The Miami Police Department and Miami Mayor Francis Suarez have received criticism after unveiling a cruiser this week with Africa-themed images to kick off Black History Month. The red, green, yellow and blue vehicle includes Black fists raised in protest, as well as an outline of Africa. Officer Kiara Delva, a department spokesperson, said at the unveiling that the design is meant to honor the history and legacy of the Black police precinct and the officers who served there. The unveiling took place Thursday at the Black Police Precinct and Courthouse Museum, which at one time served as a separate police station and municipal court for Black police officers, judges and defendants until its closure in 1963. Miami police and the city were criticized after a cruiser with a Miami Police Chief Manuel Morales spoke at the ceremony, honoring the first Black men to join the department in 1944 officers Clyde Lee, Moody Hall, Edward Kimball, John Milledge and Ralph White. "They stood against all odds, not only against those in the community who wished to stop them, but members from their own department that wished to stand in their way," he said. Suarez, who was also at the event, called it a "beautiful collaboration to commemorate Black history." Miami Mayor Francis Suarez called the unveiling However, the unveiling led to backlash on social media, with some Black leaders expressing their disdain. Sherrilyn Ifill, former president of the NAACP Legal Defense Fund, took to Twitter, writing, "THIS CANNOT BE!" MSNBC legal analyst Charles F. Coleman Jr. tweeted that "this type of tone deaf performative action is what provokes a 'war on wokeness' when we are made to accept the unacceptable." Washington Post columnist Karen Attiah tweeted, "I AM WHEEZING." CBS News reached to Suarez's office and Miami police for comment, but did not immediately hear back. Miami police held a news conference Friday in which Morales, joined by leaders of the Miami Community Police Benevolent Association (MCPBA) an organization for the city's Black officers attempted to explain the reasoning behind the move. Story continues Sgt. Stanley Jean-Poix, MCPBA president, said his organization paid for the design, adding that "no tax dollars were spent on it." "This was something for us to honor everyone," said Miami police Lt. Ramon Carr, vice president of the MCPBA. "This had nothing to do with being disrespectful, being disgraceful. This was something, like a source of pride for us, and it still is. We know that people are going to have their opinion about whatever, but this is something that ourselves and the chief was able to work on." Morales reiterated in the news conference that "this is our way of honoring, specifically, the first five officers, that in 1944, suffered injustice, prejudice, resistance and still answered the call, were able to step across that line." Miami police were not the only agency to roll out a cruiser to commemorate Black History Month. The Columbus Police Department in Ohio also released a design to "celebrate the achievements of African Americans & recognize their roles in our history." Introducing History 1 our newest cruiser to celebrate the achievements of African Americans & recognize their roles in our history. Be on the lookout for History 1 in your neighborhood & at community events during February. #BlackHistoryMonth #ColumbusPolice #ColumbusOhio pic.twitter.com/o7y9UuOSPy Columbus Ohio Police (@ColumbusPolice) February 1, 2023 Former Defense Department official Ezra Cohen: government records system is "compromised" China can spy on people using microchips, report finds Who will take the Grammy for "Album of the Year"? A Miami Valley ice cream shop celebrated National Eat Ice Cream for Breakfast Day on Saturday, according to a post on its social media page. >> Montgomery Co. allocates thousands of dollars for community art grants Jubies Creamery has been celebrating the holiday every year since it opened. They opened their locations in Moraine and Fairborn early Saturday by offering unique breakfast-themed flavors including Frosted Flakes ice cream. Jubies is donating a portion of the proceeds from the event to a local YMCA. At our Fairborn location, we partnered with the Fairborn Y, Julie Dominicone, Vice President of Operations, told News Center 7. Youre not only eating good but youre doing good. Staff also wore pajamas and customers who did the same also got a discount. For more information about the event and locations visit here. Michelle Yeoh shared details on "The Graham Norton Show" on Friday Todd Williamson/NBC/NBCU Photo Bank Michelle Yeoh appeared on Friday's episode of "The Graham Norton Show." Yeoh, 60, recalled being a teenager when her mother chaperoned her dates. One of Yeoh's dates and her mother accidentally held hands during one outing. Michelle Yeoh said her mother once got unexpectedly close to her date. Yeoh, 60, recalled the moment during Friday's episode of "The Graham Norton Show" while discussing her relationship with her mother. "And what age were you when she insisted on coming on a date with you?" Norton asked, prompting the "Everything Everywhere All At Once" actress to share the story. "Now, you have to remember moms are very protective, right, for all the right reasons," Yeoh said. "She always went on a date. Always until I went to England to study. I don't know why she even let me go to England." Yeoh said her mother often chaperoned her dates as a teenager, which sometimes involved Yeoh sitting between her mother and her date. When she was 17, Yeoh said there was an accidental mix-up. "One time I was sitting like this," Yeoh said, crossing her arms. "And I suddenly realized, 'Why are there two hands on my leg?" "It was his hand on my mom's hand," Yeoh added. Michelle Yeoh won a Golden Globe for "Everything Everywhere All At Once." Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP In the same interview, Yeoh said her mother encouraged her to perform on stage more and, at one point, secretly signed her up for the Miss Malaysia competition. "I did it to shut her up. Because she wouldn't stop about it, so we had a deal. If I do this, you will never do something like this again," Yeoh said. Norton noted that Yeoh won the competition that year. In January, Yeoh made headlines after winning a Golden Globe for best actress in a motion picture, musical, or comedy. Michelle Yeoh snagged an Academy Award nomination for her role in "Everything Everywhere All At Once." Dimitrios Kambouris / Staff / Getty Images "It was a dream come true until I got here," Yeoh said. "Because look at this face. I came here and was told, 'you're a minority, and I'm like, 'No, that's not possible.' And then someone said to me, 'You speak English. I mean, forget about them not knowing Korea, Japan, Malaysia, Asia, India. And I said, yeah, the flight here was about 13 hours long. So I learned as time went by." That same month, Yeoh became the first Asian best actress Oscar nominee for her work in "Everything Everywhere All At Once." Read the original article on Insider A Flagler middle school student was arrested after making a bomb threat, deputies say. According to deputies, on Friday, a student from Indian Trails Middle School reported to the school administration that he received an email from another student stating, I hate to do this to you. Im getting a timer and bomb, so stay woke. >>> STREAM CHANNEL 9 EYEWITNESS NEWS LIVE <<< The School Resource Deputy was informed immediately and following an investigation, the student was taken into custody for making written threats to kill. The student was taken to the Sheriff Perry Hall Inmate Detention Facility before being turned over to the Department of Juvenile Justice. During an interview with the SRD the student admitted to writing the message but claimed he never hit send, according to a news release. Read: Chinese balloon: US shoots down balloon off SC coast; Navy, Coast Guard will lead recovery Threats such as these are not a joke and will always be taken seriously, Flagler County Sheriff Rick Staly said. We dont like making these arrests, but we will come knocking on your door if your child makes any threat to harm someone. Parents talk to your kids and be the Sheriff in your home. Thank you to the student who alerted school administration who then alerted the SRD. Read: A path forward to more sustainability: Disney union celebrates after voting down contract offer Flagler Schools appreciates the Flagler County Sheriffs Offices quick response in this case. Threats should not, and will not be taken lightly, says Flagler Schools Superintendent Cathy Mittelstadt. I want to assure our ITMS parents that the student in question was identified quickly. The fast work by our school administration meant there was no need for any type of lockdown or increased security level. This student is now subject to our Student Code of Conduct. Read: Florida High School Athletic Assoc. weighs mandating menstrual cycle details for female athletes Click here to download the free WFTV news and weather apps, click here to download the WFTV Now app for your smart TV and click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live. Leonard Raheem Taylor was convicted for the 2004 murders of Angela Rowe and her three children in Jennings, Missouri. Throughout the trial and appeals, he has maintained his innocence. Court documents show that the murders occurred after Leonard left Angelas home, where he last saw her and her children alive, and headed to the airport to visit his daughter in California. Then there is the false statement made by his brother, who says police coerced him, threatened him and his mother, beat him and told him to tell them Leonard had confessed to the crime a statement that he recanted immediately and repeatedly since then. All of the new and old evidence clearly shows that Leonard was not in Missouri at the time, and yet he has been on death row since 2008. Leonards story has all the red flags of wrongful convictions and sadly, his story is not unique. Joe Amrine has been living in Kansas City since he was exonerated from Missouris death row almost 20 years ago. He was sentenced to death in 1986 for the murder of a fellow prisoner, Gary Barber, and spent 17 years on Missouris death row. Like Leonard, Joe maintained his innocence, and investigators could never provide any physical evidence linking him to the crime. Given the recent exonerations of Kevin Strickland and the hearing in St. Louis County for Lamar Johnson, it is well known that the Missouri attorney generals office defends every conviction, regardless of merit. Perhaps the most egregious example was in Joes case in 2001, when a Missouri Supreme Court justice asked the prosecutor: Are you suggesting even if we find that Mr. Amrine is actually innocent, he should be executed? The prosecutor responded, That is correct, your honor. The court ordered his release in April 2003, citing the alarming fact that there was no credible evidence to uphold the conviction. On Tuesday, Missouri is set to execute Leonard despite serious questions about the integrity of his conviction. The similarities between their cases are routine in wrongful convictions and include false statements, misleading forensic evidence and prosecutorial misconduct. Story continues Perjury or false accusation is present in more than 75% of wrongful death sentences. A key piece of evidence against Leonard was that coerced, recanted confession from his brother, Perry Taylor. A new review of the documentation by an interrogations expert concludes that Perrys interrogation was overly coercive and utilized tactics no longer approved in the U.S. because they lead to false statements. False or misleading forensic evidence is present in more than 30% of wrongful death sentences. A recent review by an independent pathologist concluded that there is a need for a more thorough review of the autopsy report, photographs and other documents, which would discredit the medical examiners testimony at trial and support Leonards innocence. Since 1973, at least 190 people who had been wrongly convicted and sentenced to death in the U.S. have been exonerated, according to the Death Penalty Information Centers Innocence Database. For every eight people executed in our country, one person has been exonerated. Missouri has executed 94 people, and four have been exonerated from death row. Time and again, state courts have proven they cannot be trusted to protect the innocent or afford people their rights when accused. If innocent people can make it onto death row, what would prevent an innocent person from being executed? Missourians to Abolish the Death Penalty joins in the call with the Innocence Project, the Midwest Innocence Project and the nonprofit law practice Phillips Black asking Gov. Mike Parson to issue a board of inquiry to review all of the new and old evidence in Leonard Taylors case. Joe Amrine is living proof that our court system does make mistakes and when death is on the table, those mistakes cannot be unmade. Elyse Max is the co-director of Missourians to Abolish the Death Penalty, a statewide, nonpartisan organization working to abolish the death penalty and educate Missourians on the costs and consequences of the death penalty. She lives in Kansas City. Michigan mom Sierra Carter is defending her 11-year-old daughter after she says school officials "embarrassed" her in class by mistaking a drawing for "boy parts." (Photo Courtesy of WLNS News/@sierraleann30 via TikTok) On Jan. 13, Sierra Carter received a surprising phone call from her daughter's elementary school teacher. The fifth grader had drawn an "inappropriate" picture in class. The drawing a pink pig with a necktie in the shape of what could be interpreted as male genitalia was brought to the teacher's attention by a classmate who'd informed them that Carter's daughter drew "boy parts on a pig." The 11-year-old, according to her mom, told her teacher that she drew a "bow tie," not "boy parts." "The teacher told her, 'I'm going to have to give it to the principal and ask him how he wants to handle it,'" which she did, Carter tells Yahoo Life. "They didn't even talk to my daughter, didn't try to investigate it at all. Nothing. The principal just said to write her up." That was on a Friday. On the following Tuesday, Carter met with the school's vice principal, a social worker and her daughter to discuss the drawing. "That was when I saw it for the first time and I was beside myself," she explains. "This is very much a bow tie." Attached to the drawing, Carter alleges, was a stapled piece of paper describing the various ways her daughter had reacted to the teacher when pressed about the drawing. Carter says she was told that the photo and its attached paper were going in her daughter's student file, at the request of the school's principal. "I said, 'I would like to discuss this with him as well,'" she recalls saying in the meeting. "So somebody went and got him and he came in. I pointed to [the drawing] right away and I said to him, 'I'm not quite sure what's wrong with this. This is a bow tie.' And he argued with me. He goes, 'Well, bow ties have a bow.' I'm like, 'Well, she's 11, and when she was drawing a bow tie, to her, this is her interpretation of that.' I was like, 'This is very clearly a bow tie.'" Story continues "I feel like every adult along the way should have shot this down," she says. "They should have looked at it, and they should have at least asked her, 'What is this? What did you draw?' And then if she said, 'It's a bowtie,' shut it down. You can't just sit there and assume or ostracize a child for something like that. Because one boy thinks it's something, that's the word you're gonna take?" When she got home that night, Carter took to TikTok to vent about the situation in a video thats since garnered over 600K views with nearly 14K comments, many of which are from concerned parents raising a debate about whether the school's actions were befitting the alleged offense. "The social worker could have stopped this issue in seconds, shameful! The adults have their heads in the gutter," one comment read. "Teacher here... bow tie, but woulda had to show my fellow teachers because its cute and funny," another read. "Nothing more." "Glad you stood up for your daughter. Thats 100% a bow tie and she is so innocent. Sad this happened," a supporter wrote, with another adding: "I am a teacher. Definitely a bow tie. It is in the wrong place to be the other." Carter says she requested that the school give her the drawing, which they obliged, before explaining that they "needed to make a copy" of it to place in her daughter's file. I should have just grabbed it," she says now. "I told the principal, 'I honestly feel like she is owed an apology at this point for the entire thing. And he was like, 'Well, who do you expect to apologize to her?' It was just awful." The next week, after the heated meeting, Carter says the vice principal sat in her daughter's classroom the entire day. "I don't know what that was about or what the true reason was," she admits, but it was enough for her to make the decision to transfer her two daughters 11 and 8 to another school district citing concerns of emotional stress for them. The district's superintendent, John Denney confirmed with Yahoo Life there is nothing in Carter's daughter's file pertaining to the photo. In a separate statement, the school district acknowledged the matter by saying "it is unfortunate that a one-sided narrative has been created on social media that paints our staff in a negative light. As with every situation, there are two sides to this story." "In this case, a student appropriately brought concerns to the attention of our staff," the statement continued. "In response, our staff handled the situation with compassion and discretion. Staff contacted the students parents to discuss the situation. No student was singled out or ostracized. Every effort was made to protect the privacy and dignity of all students. Nothing has been placed in any students school records related to this matter." Carter says she and her husband were "never notified" of the photo being removed from the student file. Last we knew, the principal made a copy of it and said it would remain in her file. As seen in an email, obtained by Yahoo Life, from Denney to Carter about the situation, Denney clarifies it is a "common process" for teachers to take notes about such incidents to "look back on if a similar thing occurs later in the year," reiterating that her daughter's "official file has no reference to or indication of the situation in question." Still, Carter says the real issue is not about the drawing or the student file, but rather, the mistreatment she feels her daughter experienced at the hands of adults and the responsibility for educators to "ask questions" so kids don't feel "ostracized" or "targeted" or "embarrassed at school. The mom of three, who lost her 7-year-old son Carter six years ago to mitochondrial disease, says the passing of her eldest child inspired her to publish a children's book last year, Meet Carter, and to be an advocate for "kids who do things differently" so adults can "understand them and find a mutual ground." That, she admits, is what fuels her message to school educators now. "Kids are trying to acclimate to school again [post COVID], and I think teachers may be too quick to act on situations that shouldn't be taken this way," she explains. "I just hope we can stop, take a breath, try to look at each situation for what it is and talk to the students, you know, get their side of the story. Find out all the facts before you jump on a disciplinary thing like this. This never had to happen." Wellness, parenting, body image and more: Get to know the who behind the hoo with Yahoo Life's newsletter. Sign up here. Feb. 3Ten years after its original conception, the fifth and newest tower in the Presbyterian Hospital complex Downtown is ready to open its doors. The sprawling, 335,000-square-foot, 11-story expansion adds 144 beds for patients who need detailed care and monitoring, but do not need to be in the ICU. The additional beds bring the total to 600 for the entire hospital. Local architectural firm Dekker/Perich/Sabatini was in charge of the tower's design and Jaynes Corp. was tapped for the construction process. Around 700 people were hired for the design and construction of the tower, Presbyterian's chief hospital executive Dionne Cruz Miller said. The total cost of the expansion was $260 million; with $170 million going toward the construction of the actual tower and $90 million used for a new parking garage planned to accommodate the extra cars the new tower will eventually draw to the downtown hospital. The way Miller sees it, the new tower represents "an investment in New Mexico, a commitment to the community." Construction began in 2019 and was completed within the estimated timeline set by Presbyterian, even with the COVID-19 pandemic hitting soon after work began. Miller said that although Presbyterian is always hiring new staff, additional staff will not be recruited specifically to run the new tower. Instead, workers will slowly be moved from other parts of the hospital. One of the main reasons the new tower was conceived was a study from the University of New Mexico, which projected an increase in people 65 years and older moving to New Mexico for retirement. Presbyterian saw a need to expand its hospital capacity for long-term patient rooms. Peaceful healing All patient rooms are stocked with new equipment and furnishings such as lifts so staff will be able to move patients safely when required to do so. Bathroom and shower floors were made from materials that prevent slipping, ensuring patient safety. Story continues Rooms are also adapted for any COVID-19-related needs, such as oxygen and enough space for patient isolation. To make the new space feel more welcoming, special consideration was given to allowing an abundance of natural light. Using materials that reduce sound and make each room a private space for family was "very intentional in creating almost a spa and healing-like environment with high quality, high standard materials," Miller said. Every floor includes what Miller called "tranquility spaces," consisting of open areas with seating and large windows overlooking the city's west side. There also are two outdoor gardens and a rooftop terrace, giving patients, family and staff places to get fresh air. "Hospitals can be scary for people, so we're trying to make it more of a healing space not only for our patients but also for the staff," Miller said. "Our staff's our family." Inspired by New Mexico culture Local art was sought to bring life into each floor, with several themes that represent New Mexico's culture and nature. Northern New Mexico mountains, White Sands and even low-riders are some of the themes reflected on each floor. Everything from the furniture to the wall colors evokes New Mexico with its vibrant palette. According to Miller, special attention was taken in order to make it feel part of the state's identity. Most walls are full of paintings, photographs and "art that represents not only central New Mexico, but all New Mexico," Miller said. Timeless design Designers were looking to shy away from the traditional hospital designs from past decades because they tend to feel cold and uninviting. The new tower offers "a design that is more like a home than a hospital." Patient care, service quality and staff comfort were all considered in the design, according to Greg Everett, healthcare design manager for Dekker/Perich/Sabatini. Details from moving all hallway lighting from the ceiling to the walls to using special construction materials that ensure the least amount of noise from one room to another were chosen to create a calm environment. "At the end of the day in a hospital, they don't want people to stay long, so doing things like creating calming spaces, pulling the lights to the side of the corridors, having giant windows in the rooms that take up almost the whole wall ... help encourage the patients to get better," Everett said. A unique feature incorporated in the design of every room's entryway is the inclusion of cabinets used to store personal protective equipment for staff members coming into the room. Everett said the reason was to provide every staff member with enough protection while avoiding overflow in the corridors. It really is more than just beds, it's trying to create a place that physicians want to come and work, Everett said. "That's the way we want to help Presbyterian with this new facility and impact the community in a positive way." Kicking things off Operations at the new tower have already started. Services like the laboratory, biomedical engineering and the physician lounges are functioning. More departments and floors will be opening on a weekly basis over the next two months with the goal of making it seamless to the public, Miller said. "It's really a gift for the community, it creates more access to safer care," Miller said. By the numbers $170 million for the tower's construction $90 million for the new parking garage 700 people hired for the project 5th tower at Downtown campus 335,000 square feet 11 stories 144 new beds, bringing the total to around 600 2 healing gardens 1 outdoor terrace 1 employee gym Morgan Radford is a mom! The NBC News Daily anchor and NBC News correspondent welcomed her first child with husband David Williams on Feb. 2. The baby girl was 8 pounds, 1 ounce and 21 inches and the parents have named her Adelana Marcia Radford Williams, or Lana for short. Adelana (Andrea Del Valle / Courtesy of Mom365 Newborn Photography) Radford shared a few details about her new daughter with TODAY. "She is the life that love created," Radford said in a statement. "She is mommys bundle of joy, new best friend, and her wildest dream. She is the apple of her daddys eye and the keeper of his heart. She is also the living manifestation of decades of love and investment by her (very) proud grandparents, who cannot stop staring at her in joy and disbelief." Morgan Radford and David Williams with their daughter. (Andrea Del Valle / Courtesy Mom365 Newborn Photography) Her name can be said in English, Spanish and Yoruba and was chosen to "connect her to her family, her roots, and our dreams for a bright and colorful future of her choosing." Adelana, pronounced "AH-de-LAH-nuh," is a Yoruba name meaning "the conduit by which more good things are to come." Marcia comes from her maternal grandmother, Lily Marcia. Radford and Williams have kept their fans in the loop about the incoming bundle of joy since last August, when they let TODAY share a heartwarming video on Twitter that included Williams and all of the future grandparents learning about the addition to the family. The original due date for the newborn was to have been in January. Radford told TODAY Parents at the time that she was most looking forward to The cuddles! First words! First steps! with her newborn, adding, I love that we are creating this whole new human who gets to be exactly who they want to be, and to have new experiences even beyond my own imagination. David Williams kisses Morgan Radford's head after the birth of their daughter (Andrea Del Valle / Courtesy Mom365 Newborn Photography) In October, Radford shared a photo of herself with Williams on Twitter in which they mimicked the famous picture of a pregnant Rihanna with A$AP Rocky kissing her head. "Happy Halloween," she wrote in the caption, signing it "MoRad & A$AP Papi" with the hilarious hashtag "#AlbumDroppingSoon". Story continues Williams and Radford met while attending Harvard University. They kept in touch after graduation as Williams went to law school and Radford moved to South Africa. But after meeting again in 2017 at a London conference, they fell in love. After postponing their ceremony initially set for May 2020, they got married on Jan. 8, 2022, in Cartagena, Colombia. Reporting for TODAY in 2018 during National Infertility Awareness Week, Radford explored her personal experience with egg freezing with TODAY. While she did freeze her eggs, her pregnancy was achieved without medical intervention. Along the way, she received some sage advice from TODAY's Dylan Dreyer, a mom of three: "You will know what to do." Morgan Radford and David Williams before the birth of their daughter (Courtesy Morgan Radford) This article was originally published on TODAY.com Mount Washington Hotel Plans (Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.) Mount Washington, New Hampshire, broke the record for one of the lowest wind chill ever recorded, seeing winds in the -100s. On Friday and Saturday, the Mount Washington Observatory saw a combination of extreme cold and strong winds at its 6,288 foot peak that made it feel like it was -108 degrees Fahrenheit, according to The Weather Channel. The organization says this is one of the coldest wind chills recorded anywhere in the United States and that the previous record was -102.7 degrees. INSANE conditions on Mt Washington, NH. 120mph+ winds and -95F wind chill. It is above the tropopause, meaning that these are stratospheric winds. Footage from the summit live stream 2:30-2:40pm. #nhwx pic.twitter.com/OgDakbNn97 Peter Forister (@forecaster25) February 3, 2023 Mount Washington Observatory meteorologist Francis Tarasiewicz told local news WMUR9 that the record-setting wind chill was awe-inspiring, but actually a bit of a frightening moment. At one point, on one of our west-facing doors, the hinge that keeps it closed broke, the force of the winds were so strong. So, we had to do an emergency repair, he said, adding that on some of my observations, there have been tiny little gaps in my mittens and the spot that was uncovered to the wind felt like a bee stinging my arm continuously. He pointed out that at the current temperatures, frostbite will set in less than one minute or so, really any wind chill below 80 degrees below. When you have frostbite, it means body tissues have become frozen and it can inflict permanent damage if its not treated promptly, according to Johns Hopkins Medicine. They note that amputation of a body part may be needed in the most severe cases and that the most commonly affected body parts are the nose, ears, fingers, toes, cheeks, and chin. The observatory is asking that hikers stay off trails on Saturday due to these conditions. In a blog post shared by the observatory, they also noted that wind chill values remained at 100 below to 110 below Saturday morning before highlighting how these conditions make it very difficult to regenerate body heat, which increases the risk of hypothermia. PHILADELPHIA People struggling with opioid addiction will now be able to access an addiction treatment drug from any physician licensed to prescribe controlled substances, rather than having to seek out doctors with specialized credentials. The federal government last week lifted restrictions on who can prescribe the opioid buprenorphine to treat addiction, thanks to a legal change pushed by the Biden administration to decrease barriers to addiction care. In Philadelphia, which has one of the nations worst opioid addiction crises, health officials, advocates and physicians have long pushed for more widespread prescribing of buprenorphine. In 2021, a record 1,276 people died of overdoses here. But for years, national and local officials have said the need far outstrips the number of doctors licensed to prescribe buprenorphine in Philadelphia. In 2018, the federal Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration designated Philadelphia as a county in high need of buprenorphine providers. As of November 2020, the Pew Charitable Trusts reported, about 6% of Philadelphia physicians had the X-waiver, a special license to prescribe buprenorphine a relatively high percentage compared with other cities and counties, but a low percentage compared with the need. And just 24% of providers with an X-waiver in September 2020 were actually prescribing the drug to patients. Heres a primer on buprenorphine, how it works, and what lifting prescription regulations means for patients and their physicians. What is buprenorphine? Buprenorphine, sold under such brand names as Sublocade and Suboxone, is an opioid. It can be prescribed to treat pain, but is also effective in treating opioid addiction. For people who arent used to taking opioids, buprenorphine can produce a pleasurable high, and, like all opioids, it can slow a persons breathing. But the risk of an overdose is much lower. For people who are already used to taking opioids, buprenorphine blunts the powerful cravings and pain of withdrawal. What restrictions existed around prescribing buprenorphine? All physicians who prescribe any controlled substances, like opioid painkillers, must have a license from the Drug Enforcement Agency. But until this year, physicians who wanted to prescribe buprenorphine also had to obtain an X-waiver, a separate DEA license, which also capped the number of patients they could prescribe to. The X-waiver required doctors to undergo eight hours of training before they could prescribe buprenorphine. In 2021, the Biden administration lifted the training requirement for providers who wanted to prescribe buprenorphine to fewer than 30 patients. What are the new requirements for prescribing buprenorphine? Now, anyone with a DEA license can prescribe buprenorphine without any limits on the number of patients. Any physician applying for a DEA license beginning this summer will have to complete a onetime, eight-hour training session on how to manage pain and treat patients with substance use disorders. The training on addiction treatment is crucial, said Jeanmarie Perrone, an emergency medicine physician at the University of Pennsylvania, and the schools director of the Division of Medical Toxicology and Addiction Medicine Initiatives. Fifteen years ago, if doctors had received honest information about the risk of addiction from prescribing opioids associated with the DEA license that controlled them, maybe we wouldnt be where we are now, she said. What do the new requirements mean for doctors and patients? For years, Perrone has spearheaded programs to encourage Penns emergency physicians to get the x-waiver. Now, she says, the new requirements may help doctors approach addiction treatment as an essential part of primary care. We want more generalists to do this we want this to be part of primary care, she said. For patients, the removal of the X-waiver means they have more options to obtain addiction treatment medications, Perrone said. In hospitals, patients being discharged who need a buprenorphine prescription will no longer have to wait for a doctor who can prescribe it to start a shift, she said. Now, that same patient can get all prescriptions written by the same person at discharge. Still, in Philadelphia, the X-waivers removal isnt a panacea. Penn runs a program called CareConnect thats designed to get patients buprenorphine almost immediately; while staff there do help patients who have lost access to their medication because a physician has left a practice, other patients report difficulties getting their medication that have little to do with the X-waiver. Some pharmacies have refused to stock buprenorphine, and some treatment programs have long waiting lists or will not immediately provide the medication. Some patients cant keep up with prescriptions because they dont have adequate shelter or transportation. Usually, when one insider buys stock, it might not be a monumental event. But when multiple insiders are buying like they did in the case of New Zealand Rural Land Company Limited (NZSE:NZL), that sends out a positive message to the company's shareholders. While insider transactions are not the most important thing when it comes to long-term investing, we do think it is perfectly logical to keep tabs on what insiders are doing. View our latest analysis for New Zealand Rural Land The Last 12 Months Of Insider Transactions At New Zealand Rural Land In the last twelve months, the biggest single purchase by an insider was when Director & Management Company Representative Christopher Swasbrook bought NZ$154k worth of shares at a price of NZ$1.05 per share. That implies that an insider found the current price of NZ$1.08 per share to be enticing. That means they have been optimistic about the company in the past, though they may have changed their mind. If someone buys shares at well below current prices, it's a good sign on balance, but keep in mind they may no longer see value. Happily, the New Zealand Rural Land insiders decided to buy shares at close to current prices. In the last twelve months New Zealand Rural Land insiders were buying shares, but not selling. The chart below shows insider transactions (by companies and individuals) over the last year. If you want to know exactly who sold, for how much, and when, simply click on the graph below! There are always plenty of stocks that insiders are buying. So if that suits your style you could check each stock one by one or you could take a look at this free list of companies. (Hint: insiders have been buying them). Insider Ownership Of New Zealand Rural Land Many investors like to check how much of a company is owned by insiders. Usually, the higher the insider ownership, the more likely it is that insiders will be incentivised to build the company for the long term. It appears that New Zealand Rural Land insiders own 16% of the company, worth about NZ$20m. We've certainly seen higher levels of insider ownership elsewhere, but these holdings are enough to suggest alignment between insiders and the other shareholders. Story continues So What Does This Data Suggest About New Zealand Rural Land Insiders? It doesn't really mean much that no insider has traded New Zealand Rural Land shares in the last quarter. On a brighter note, the transactions over the last year are encouraging. Overall we don't see anything to make us think New Zealand Rural Land insiders are doubting the company, and they do own shares. In addition to knowing about insider transactions going on, it's beneficial to identify the risks facing New Zealand Rural Land. When we did our research, we found 8 warning signs for New Zealand Rural Land (2 don't sit too well with us!) that we believe deserve your full attention. If you would prefer to check out another company -- one with potentially superior financials -- then do not miss this free list of interesting companies, that have HIGH return on equity and low debt. For the purposes of this article, insiders are those individuals who report their transactions to the relevant regulatory body. We currently account for open market transactions and private dispositions, but not derivative transactions. 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. Join A Paid User Research Session Youll receive a US$30 Amazon Gift card for 1 hour of your time while helping us build better investing tools for the individual investors like yourself. Sign up here By the time the Alex Murdaugh double-murder trial wrapped up Week 2 late Friday afternoon, jurors had heard from 26 witnesses as prosecutors used their testimony to serve up a case based on a mix of time-tested information, such as ballistics, and 21st century evidence such as Snapchat videos and cellphone data. Earlier in the week, prosecutors used cellphones to portray the horror of the last few minutes of the lives of unsuspecting Paul Murdaugh and his mother, Maggie, who were at the family estates dog kennels shortly before 9 pm on the night of June 7, 2021, when someone gunned them down. Videos and texts from their cellphones in the minutes and hours before the killings showed they had no idea of their fate. And one piece of cellphone data a 58-second video found on Pauls phone was perhaps the trials most-dramatic moment so far. The video, shot by Paul at the dog kennels, was identified by other witnesses as capturing Alex Murdaughs voice just minutes before the killings. If true, the revelation would undermine what has been until now Murdaughs alibi that he was nowhere near the dog kennels that night until he discovered the bodies of his wife and son about 10 p.m. Murdaugh, 54, a disgraced attorney from a prominent Lowcountry family, is accused of killing his wife, Maggie, and son, Paul, on the familys 1,700-acre estate known as Moselle. The weapons in the case a shotgun that killed Paul and a .300 Blackout assault-style rifle that killed Maggie have never been found. As the week played out, defense attorneys Dick Harpootlian and Jim Griffin showed no signs of giving up and were using their right to cross-examine state witnesses to try to show weaknesses in the prosecutions case. Late Friday, Griffin hammered State Law Enforcement Division firearms expert Paul Greer over Greers insinuation on direct examination that a .300 Blackout assault rifle found in a gun room in the Murdaughs house could have been the weapon that killed Maggie; Paul was killed with a shotgun. Story continues After Greer identified spent Blackout cartridge shells found by Maggies body as having identical markings on them as old, weathered Blackout shells found by a side door near the Murdaughs gun room, he seemed to imply under questioning by state prosecutor David Fernandez that a Blackout assault rifle in the gun room could have been the murdeer weapon. Are you trying to tell this jury, Griffin fired at Greer, that the gun in the gun room is the actual gun that killed Maggie? Under Griffins questioning, Greer admitted that markings on the .300 Blackout cartridges fired by the gun in the gun room were inconclusive as to the certainty of that gun being the murder weapon. If prosecutors will try to establish that the death weapon was in the Murdaugh house. Its possible it could have been fired by that gun, and it may not have been fired by that gun, Greer admitted. In other areas of a case noteworthy for its complexity: A jury learned two of Pauls childhood friends Will Loving and Rogan Gibson, who viewed the Murdaughs like a second family both confirmed they heard Alex Murdaughs voice on a cellphone video captured at the propertys dog kennels at 8:45 p.m. minutes before prosecutors say Murdaugh gunned his family down. In emotional testimony, both young men appeared bewildered as to what the motive could be. The defense and prosecution sparred over interpretations of crucial cellphone data presented by SLED Lt. Britt Dove, who testified that Maggie and Pauls cellphones both locked for the last time around 8:49 p.m., shortly after the video seemingly placed Murdaugh at the crime scene. While Murdaughs phone was inactive from 8:09 to 9:02 p.m., the prosecution and defense debated whether the sporadic movement on Maggies phone that continued until roughly 9:30 p.m. implicated or exonerated Murdaugh. The trial within a trial As the murder trial continued, Judge Clifton Newman sent the jury out and heard witnesses in a parallel proceeding whose outcome may prove crucial to the prosecution and the trials eventual outcome. Lead prosecutor Creighton Waters wants to present to the jury evidence of what Waters describes as Murdaughs motive that the disgraced lawyer killed his wife and son because that very day an elaborate web of his hidden life wild spending, lies and secret thefts from family, friends, clients and his law firm involving millions of dollars was about to be exposed. Newman is letting Waters financial fraud witnesses testify so he can decide how much, if any, of their testimony to put before the jury. Their testimony would be about more than just fraud. In committing his alleged thefts, Murdaugh betrayed many of those closest to him. At least half a dozen witnesses from prominent Hampton banker Jan Malinowski to Tony Satterfield, a vulnerable-appearing young man have testified how Murdaughs treachery reached an unspeakable level of villainy. One witness, the normally reserved Jeanne Seckinger, CFO of Murdaughs law firm, could scarcely conceal her scorn for Murdaugh as she testified how he had defiled a culture of brotherhood and trust at the venerable law firm PMPED, which after Murdaughs alleged thefts of millions from clients began to come out, had to rebrand itself with a new name. Another financial fraud witness, Chris Wilson, described Murdaughs oldest and best friend, wept on the witness stand Thursday when he recalled how Murdaugh used him to steal $792,000 from his law firm and left Wilson with a $192,000 debt to repay. He was one of my best friends, said Wilson, who spent more than an hour on the stand, at times dabbing his eyes with a tissue. I thought he felt the same way about me. Asked how he feels now, a downcast Wilson replied, I dont know how I feel now, Mr. Waters. Judge Newman said late Friday he would hear from one more financial fraud witness Monday morning, when lawyer Mark Tinsley testifies. Tinsley represented some of Murdaughs fraud victims. The defense has strenuously objected to the inclusion of these witnesses. They have maintained that the connection between the exposure of the alleged financial crimes and the killings is illogical and should not be admissible under South Carolinas rules of evidence, which dont allow the jury to consider prior alleged criminal conduct. Its all just a theory, Griffin said. Theres no facts. I would be wanting more Murdaugh has always maintained that he was not at the kennels that night, until he discovered the bodies. Data from his cellphone, presented to the jury early in the week by SLED Lt. Britt Dove, showed no activity between 8:09 and 9:02 p.m. Both Paul and Maggies cellphones went dark around 8:49, Dove said. But the cellphone data continues to offer tantalizing clues. Between 8:53 and 8:55 p.m., Maggies phone records movement. It also registers an orientation change going from portrait to landscape mode and a one-second camera activation, as if someone accidentally activated Face ID, Britt said. But the phone does not unlock, indicating that someone other than Maggie picked up her phone, which was found half a mile away from Moselle the following morning. Focusing on Maggies cellphone, defense attorney Phil Barber argued the idea that someone other than Murdaugh had Maggies phone: Between 9:02 p.m. and 9:06 p.m., Murdaughs phone recorded 283 steps. At 9:06 p.m., three key events happened, Barber said: Murdaugh called Maggie; his Chevrolet Suburban turned on, and Maggies phone recorded its final orientation change, indicating that the phone had been rotated. However, Maggies phone recorded no steps. It appears the phones were not being moved together by the same person because they are not (both) recording steps, Dove said during cross-examination. After court Friday, members of the public who have been packing the 234-seat courtroom spilled out of the courthouse. Observers came from states such as Florida, North Carolina, Georgia and elsewhere for a chance to glimpse in person one of the most-publicized murder trials this century. I think both sides are fighting equally, said Natalie Turner, 51, an Atlanta sales representative who came for the afternoon with three friends and was lingering on the courthouse lawn at days end. Both sides have hit their punches. Its up and down. If she were on the jury now, said Turner, who like her friends has been following the trial on Court TV, I would be thinking that hes (Murdaugh) a liar, they caught him in a lie. I would also be really tired because a lot of the gun evidence today was really monotonous and tiring, and it was Friday afternoon. But, she said with a smile, I would be wanting more. Members of the Murdaugh family continue to come to court. They include Murdaughs two brothers, John Marvin and Randy, his older sister, Lynn, and Murdaughs son, Buster. Little bits of unexpected evidence continue to surface each day. On Friday, for example, the jury learned that Paul had been hit with a blast of 49 tiny pellets of bird shot. Much of the testimony is much more tedious. Up to now, Newman has aimed at a three-week trial. But the case has proceeded more slowly than expected, and now people connected with the trial are talking about the trial going well into a fourth week. The identity of a man shot and killed by a Kentucky State Police trooper in Eastern Kentucky Friday has been released. Glenn Edward Bays, 65, of Harold, was pronounced dead at 5:21 p.m. after the shooting on U.S. Route 23 in Prestonsburg, Floyd County Deputy Coroner Chuck Hall said. Kentucky State Police said a state trooper was trying to find a vehicle connected with a domestic violence incident, and the trooper conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle matching its description Friday afternoon. During the traffic stop the trooper was placed in a life-threatening situation by the vehicle operator, and in response discharged an agency-issued firearm striking the male subject, state police said in a news release. The man who was shot died at the scene. State police said the shooting happened at about 3 p.m. State police said their Critical Incident Response Team responded, and the investigation is ongoing. Olena Kondratiuk, Deputy Speaker of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine, and Joelle Garriaud-Maylam, President of the NATO Parliamentary Assembly (NATO PA), visited Borodianka, Kyiv Oblast, on February 4. Source: Ukrinform, as European Pravda reports In Borodianka, Kondratiuk and Garriaud-Maylam got acquainted with the consequences of the occupation of this settlement by Russian troops. Kondratiuk and Garriaud-Maylam saw the consequences of the occupation by Russian troops, in particular, destroyed apartment blocks, and visited a modular town located near the destroyed school; there, they inspected the kitchen and children's room, and talked with the residents of these houses. "Ms President, we [also ed.] expect that all European parliaments will join the initiative taken by the Parliamentary Assembly, namely, to recognize the Russian Federation as a terrorist state, to create a special tribunal," Kondratiuk said. For her part, the President of the NATO PA thanked for inviting her to Ukraine. "The fighting goes on, the aggressor is very powerful, and there is a need for weapons, all types of weapons, even aircraft. And we are trying to talk about this from the NATO PA rostrum, to say that, of course, we have to make some sacrifices, and that our sacrifices are nothing compared to what the Ukrainian people are going through," Garriaud-Maylam said. She clarified that the NATO Parliamentary Assembly has been defending Ukraine since the first hours of the full-scale war with the Russian Federation. The politician specified that the NATO PAs support for Ukraine is decisive and unwavering. "And parliamentarians, of course, are important. They are important because they are representatives of the people, and it is in this role that we want to offer our help, especially in the restoration of Ukraine. Ukraine should start rebuilding now, while fighting. And so I want to address you with this promise of assistance," the president of the NATO PA said. Story continues "But it must be understood that it turned out that the NATO countries were not preparing, and no one was preparing, for such a large-scale war. We do not even have the ammunition we need to meet the needs of such an intensive war. Therefore, this means that we all have to work together to develop the potential that will help us achieve our goal peace through victory," she believes. Journalists fight on their own frontline. Support Ukrainska Pravda or become our patron! The Big Laurel Creek Bridge, as seen here from in front of Laurel Chapel Baptist Church, will have repairs as part of a NCDOT Future Interstate 26 project, the state DOT announced Feb. 1. MARS HILL - Residents driving on Future Interstate 26 from Mars Hill to the Tennessee border may experience some lane closures, according to a Feb. 1 release from the N.C. Department of Transportation. DOT will embark on an interstate maintenance project that is slated to start in the coming weeks, according to the release. The project is expected to be completed in September 2024. The project will see crews from Buckeye Bridge, a general contractor based in Canton, rehabilitate bridges and replace drainage boxes from the Tennessee state line to the U.S. 19 interchange at Exit 9. The first phase will include repairing joints on the bridge over Big Laurel Road one of the tallest bridges in North Carolina near the Wolf Laurel exit, Exit 3. NCDOT Communications Officer David Uchiyama said he doesnt expect traffic to be impacted much by crews working on an upcoming Future Interstate-26 project between Exit 9 and the Tennessee state line. Additional tasks in the project include removing and replacing bridge decks, painting steel beams and other necessary updates. Traffic impacts will be minimal during most travel times due to the three existing lanes in both directions and an average of less than 10,000 vehicles per day, according to the DOT's Annual Average Daily Traffic statistics. David Uchiyama is a communications officer for DOT. "With three lanes, even if one lane is closed, at an average of 10,000 vehicles a day, traffic should still move very smoothly," Uchiyama said. "(That average) is so, so few compared to what the traffic counts are in Buncombe County and the further south you go." According to Uchiyama, in 2019, Exit 9 through Exit 3 saw an annual average daily traffic rate of 12,500 vehicles. In 2020, that number dipped to 10,500 vehicles per day. Heading north of Exit 3 to the Tennessee state line, the 2019 average was 10,500 vehicles per day, while the 2020 average was 8,800 vehicles. "Those are the most recent traffic counts NCDOT has taken," Uchiyama said. However, lane closures will still be necessary for the safety of drivers and contract crew members, according to NCDOT. The contract was awarded to Buckeye Bridge in fall 2022, Uchiyama said. Transportation officials remind drivers to remain alert, merge early, and obey all posted traffic signs. This article originally appeared on Asheville Citizen Times: I-26 bridge repair project to begin in Madison County in coming weeks Newark firefighters respond to the scene of a house fire on State Street early Tuesday morning. NEWARK Newark Fire Department investigators have determined two January fires at homes owned by the same person were arson. And a third January fire with the same owner was ruled electrical. An arrest warrant has been issued for a suspect in a Jan. 20 arson fire on Elmwood Avenue, but the investigation continues into a Tuesday arson fire at 46 State St., according to Newark Fire Department Deputy Chief Doug Vermaaten. "They were two different criminal acts by two different people," Vermaaten said. The Elmwood fire has been classified as an aggressive arson because the home was occupied, he said. The State Street house was vacant. An accelerant was used at both locations, Vermaaten said. The emergency call for the State Street fire came in at 12:29 a.m. Tuesday. The vacant, two-story home was being renovated. State Street is located south of West Main, between Ohio 79 and North 21st Street. Vermaaten said there are no known reports of neighbors seeing squatters entering the house. There was nobody inside the structure and there were no injuries. Firefighters fought the fire from the outside, not risking injury to enter the vacant home, which was a total loss, estimated at $100,000. Following the fire, part of the house was knocked down because it was too dangerous for fire investigators to enter the burned-out structure. Vermaaten asks anyone with information on the State Street fire to call the Newark Police Department at 740-670-7200 or the Newark Fire Department at 740-670-7650. The third fire, Jan. 13 at a duplex at 307-309 Mount Vernon Road, was ruled electrical. Vermaaten said all three homes are owned by Anthony Sax, who owns 71 properties listed on the county's property search web site under the names of Sax 1 LLC, Sax 2 LLC, Sax 3 LLC and Sax 4 LLC. Sax declined to comment for the story. kmallett@newarkadvocate.com 740-973-4539 Twitter: @kmallett1958 This article originally appeared on Newark Advocate: Newark Fire Department seeks information on State Street arson fire People across the northeastern United States confronted the coldest temperatures seen in decades on Saturday, as an Arctic air mass passed over the region, accompanied by powerful winds that drove wind chills to dangerous levels. Frigid conditions demolished records set more than a century ago in Boston and Providence, Rhode Island, where lows hit minus 10 and minus 9 degrees Fahrenheit early Saturday, the National Weather Service reported. Temperatures plunged to 4 degrees in New York City, minus 6 in Hartford, Connecticut, and minus 15 in Concord, New Hampshire, with the wind making it feel much colder everywhere. A record for the coldest wind chill ever recorded, minus 108 degrees Fahrenheit, was set at the summit of Mount Washington in New Hampshire, the regions highest peak, on Friday. The previous record was minus 103 degrees. Conditions were expected to become more moderate by Sunday. In the meantime, government officials opened warming shelters, issued warnings about frostbite and hypothermia, and urged people to stay inside. Saturday morning, more than 11,000 customers across New York state and nearly 7,000 in Maine were without electricity, according to the website poweroutage.us. This is one of the coldest events that weve seen in years, said Miro Weinberger, mayor of Burlington, Vermont. Were encouraging people to stay indoors. Mayor Michelle Wu of Boston declared a cold emergency through Sunday, while in New York, a Code Blue was in effect, meaning that no one seeking shelter would be denied. In Portland, Maine, a shelter set up to serve 75 people saw 92 show up seeking warmth overnight Friday and into Saturday morning, a city spokesperson said. Chairs were set up to accommodate the extra turnout. Will Donovan Jr. spent Friday night in a warming shelter in Oswego, New York, 40 miles north of Syracuse, where hours were extended throughout the weekend. He said he has lived outdoors off and on for three years, occasionally staying with friends or in motels. Theres homeless people out here who need someplace to go, he said, sitting near a bed he had made up for himself. Right now, I have nothing, no money. Inside Bostons South Station, the downtown train hub that was left unlocked to provide emergency shelter overnight on Friday and Saturday, it was quiet Saturday morning, though busy. Dozens of people covered in sleeping bags, quilts, fibrous blankets, and even trash bags lined up, sleeping, against the walls and on the benches of the station. Others, waiting for delayed trains, stood in front of the schedule board. Rosie DeQuattro and Jerry Berke, of Maine, were there to catch a train to New York, where they planned to see a play. Mindful of the risk of frozen pipes, they opened all their kitchen cabinet doors before leaving home, to keep warm air circulating, and didnt turn their heat down like they normally would before a trip. The core of the Arctic air mass passed over northern New England, where residents pride themselves on cold-weather endurance. But the combination of frigid cold and high winds forced some to make rare accommodations. Wildcat Mountain, a 4,000-foot peak in New Hampshires White Mountains, closed to skiers for a second consecutive day Saturday, citing risks from the adverse conditions. Other ski mountains, including Sugarloaf in western Maine, where the temperature was minus 21 at 9 a.m. Saturday, limited chairlift operations. The weather service in Caribou, Maine, said in a tweet on Friday that it had received reports of frostquakes, tremors in the earth similar to earthquakes but caused by sudden cracks in frozen soil. In Burlington, Vermont, the annual Penguin Plunge in which participants leap into icy Lake Champlain to raise money for the Special Olympics was canceled and replaced with safer, remote activities. An opening event Friday night for the Quebec Winter Carnival, which draws tens of thousands of people to outdoor activities in the Canadian city, was also canceled. Jeremy Dolbear, a newspaper carrier in Oswego, New York, for The Palladium-Times, left his truck running as he sat inside it, rolling and bagging 184 papers before setting out to deliver them late Friday night, a job that takes about three hours and requires leaving the warmth of his vehicle at each stop, he said. Its pretty close to the coldest I can remember, he said. Normally its not like this cold where it goes right through you. Across the northern reaches of the region and even in parts of Manhattan some expressed a stoicism about the cold, noting that in past years, it has descended for far longer. Marco Nasso, 38, was bundled in a fluffy hood as he walked his similarly dressed dog, Cesar, in midtown Manhattan on Saturday morning. Nasso, who hails from Italy, seemed largely unfazed by the chill. Thats how its supposed to be, winter in New York, he said with a shrug, adding that it hadnt affected his weekend plans. Theres people living in Alaska! In Vermont late Friday, Molly Bennett kept close tabs on the sometimes-unreliable furnace at her home in Quechee, checking in by phone with her 14-year-old son to make sure it was still working. Reassured that the thermostat still said 66 degrees, she also checked in on the family dog. Did you let Jasper out? Bennett asked the teenager during a brief video call from a convenience store in White River Junction. Let him out if he needs to go out, but dont let him stay out too long. This article originally appeared in The New York Times. Even if it's not a huge purchase, we think it was good to see that Francis Salway, the Non-Executive Director of Watkin Jones Plc (LON:WJG) recently shelled out UK50k to buy stock, at UK1.10 per share. Nevertheless, it only increased their shareholding by a minuscule percentage, and it wasn't a massive purchase by absolute value, either. Check out our latest analysis for Watkin Jones Watkin Jones Insider Transactions Over The Last Year In fact, the recent purchase by Francis Salway was the biggest purchase of Watkin Jones shares made by an insider individual in the last twelve months, according to our records. So it's clear an insider wanted to buy, at around the current price, which is UK1.12. That means they have been optimistic about the company in the past, though they may have changed their mind. While we always like to see insider buying, it's less meaningful if the purchases were made at much lower prices, as the opportunity they saw may have passed. In this case we're pleased to report that the insider purchases were made at close to current prices. Watkin Jones insiders may have bought shares in the last year, but they didn't sell any. Their average price was about UK1.28. This is nice to see since it implies that insiders might see value around current prices. The chart below shows insider transactions (by companies and individuals) over the last year. By clicking on the graph below, you can see the precise details of each insider transaction! Watkin Jones is not the only stock insiders are buying. So take a peek at this free list of growing companies with insider buying. Insider Ownership Of Watkin Jones Many investors like to check how much of a company is owned by insiders. I reckon it's a good sign if insiders own a significant number of shares in the company. From looking at our data, insiders own UK949k worth of Watkin Jones stock, about 0.3% of the company. We do note, however, it is possible insiders have an indirect interest through a private company or other corporate structure. We prefer to see high levels of insider ownership. Story continues So What Does This Data Suggest About Watkin Jones Insiders? The recent insider purchase is heartening. We also take confidence from the longer term picture of insider transactions. We would certainly prefer see higher levels of insider ownership but analysis of the insider transactions suggests that Watkin Jones insiders are expecting a bright future. So while it's helpful to know what insiders are doing in terms of buying or selling, it's also helpful to know the risks that a particular company is facing. Every company has risks, and we've spotted 3 warning signs for Watkin Jones (of which 2 are a bit unpleasant!) you should know about. Of course, you might find a fantastic investment by looking elsewhere. So take a peek at this free list of interesting companies. For the purposes of this article, insiders are those individuals who report their transactions to the relevant regulatory body. We currently account for open market transactions and private dispositions, but not derivative transactions. 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. Join A Paid User Research Session Youll receive a US$30 Amazon Gift card for 1 hour of your time while helping us build better investing tools for the individual investors like yourself. Sign up here The Georgia Bureau of Investigation says the deputy who shot and killed an unarmed man in north Georgia last week was not wearing a body camera. Billy Dewayne Couch, 51, died after a Gordon County sheriffs deputy shot him following a chase. Well I was shocked, Greg Seritt, a friend of the Couch family, told Channel 2s Justin Wilfon. [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] The shooting sent shockwaves through the small community of Sugar Valley in Gordon County last week. In a statement through their attorney, the Couch family told Channel 2, The grieving process has been worsened because the authorities will not provide us with any details of what police say happened that night, suggesting it will be months until we have any answers. Seritt said body cameras would help provide answers in cases like these. Well, I think if they can afford it, I think that that would be the best thing. We have a lot of stuff going on that you cant vouch for, said Seritt. TRENDING STORIES: In a statement, the Gordon County Sheriffs Office told Channel 2 Action News that deputies stopped wearing cameras last Fall because they were faulty. We have suspended the use of body worn cameras pending a search for a reliable, dependable device, after 15 of 35 such devices malfunctioned in a 45 day period, the statement read in part. After the shooting last week in Couchs backyard, the GBI released few details, only saying that the deputy asked Couch to put his hands up and at some point shot him. A split-second decision that could have been shown by a camera. Its a tough job, I wouldnt want to fill in their shoes, no, no, no, said Seritt of police. [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] According to a government report released in late 2018, only about 47% of police agencies nationwide use body cameras. Many departments that dont use cameras are in rural areas, like Gordon County, where funding can be an issue. The Gordon County deputys car did feature a dashboard camera, but the GBI says it did not capture the shooting. IN RELATED NEWS: Novartis AG's (VTX:NOVN) dividend will be increasing from last year's payment of the same period to $3.20 on 13th of March. This will take the annual payment to 4.0% of the stock price, which is above what most companies in the industry pay. See our latest analysis for Novartis Novartis' Payment Has Solid Earnings Coverage Impressive dividend yields are good, but this doesn't matter much if the payments can't be sustained. However, prior to this announcement, Novartis' dividend was comfortably covered by both cash flow and earnings. This means that most of what the business earns is being used to help it grow. Over the next year, EPS is forecast to expand by 96.9%. If the dividend continues on this path, the payout ratio could be 52% by next year, which we think can be pretty sustainable going forward. Novartis Has A Solid Track Record The company has a sustained record of paying dividends with very little fluctuation. The dividend has gone from an annual total of $2.26 in 2013 to the most recent total annual payment of $3.45. This works out to be a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of approximately 4.3% a year over that time. Dividends have grown relatively slowly, which is not great, but some investors may value the relative consistency of the dividend. The Dividend's Growth Prospects Are Limited Investors who have held shares in the company for the past few years will be happy with the dividend income they have received. Although it's important to note that Novartis' earnings per share has basically not grown from where it was five years ago, which could erode the purchasing power of the dividend over time. While growth may be thin on the ground, Novartis could always pay out a higher proportion of earnings to increase shareholder returns. We Really Like Novartis' Dividend Overall, a dividend increase is always good, and we think that Novartis is a strong income stock thanks to its track record and growing earnings. Distributions are quite easily covered by earnings, which are also being converted to cash flows. Taking this all into consideration, this looks like it could be a good dividend opportunity. Story continues Market movements attest to how highly valued a consistent dividend policy is compared to one which is more unpredictable. Still, investors need to consider a host of other factors, apart from dividend payments, when analysing a company. For example, we've picked out 1 warning sign for Novartis that investors should know about before committing capital to this stock. Is Novartis not quite the opportunity you were looking for? Why not check out our selection of top dividend stocks. 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. Join A Paid User Research Session Youll receive a US$30 Amazon Gift card for 1 hour of your time while helping us build better investing tools for the individual investors like yourself. Sign up here Generally, when a single insider buys stock, it is usually not a big deal. However, when several insiders are buying, like in the case of SILK Laser Australia Limited (ASX:SLA), it sends a favourable message to the company's shareholders. While insider transactions are not the most important thing when it comes to long-term investing, we would consider it foolish to ignore insider transactions altogether. See our latest analysis for SILK Laser Australia SILK Laser Australia Insider Transactions Over The Last Year While no particular insider transaction stood out, we can still look at the overall trading. While SILK Laser Australia insiders bought shares during the last year, they didn't sell. Their average price was about AU$3.18. These transactions suggest that insiders have considered the current price of AU$1.76 attractive. The chart below shows insider transactions (by companies and individuals) over the last year. By clicking on the graph below, you can see the precise details of each insider transaction! SILK Laser Australia is not the only stock that insiders are buying. For those who like to find winning investments this free list of growing companies with recent insider purchasing, could be just the ticket. Insider Ownership Of SILK Laser Australia Another way to test the alignment between the leaders of a company and other shareholders is to look at how many shares they own. A high insider ownership often makes company leadership more mindful of shareholder interests. Our data indicates that SILK Laser Australia insiders own about AU$12m worth of shares (which is 12% of the company). Overall, this level of ownership isn't that impressive, but it's certainly better than nothing! So What Do The SILK Laser Australia Insider Transactions Indicate? It doesn't really mean much that no insider has traded SILK Laser Australia shares in the last quarter. However, our analysis of transactions over the last year is heartening. Insiders own shares in SILK Laser Australia and we see no evidence to suggest they are worried about the future. In addition to knowing about insider transactions going on, it's beneficial to identify the risks facing SILK Laser Australia. For example - SILK Laser Australia has 1 warning sign we think you should be aware of. Story continues But note: SILK Laser Australia may not be the best stock to buy. So take a peek at this free list of interesting companies with high ROE and low debt. For the purposes of this article, insiders are those individuals who report their transactions to the relevant regulatory body. We currently account for open market transactions and private dispositions, but not derivative transactions. 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. Join A Paid User Research Session Youll receive a US$30 Amazon Gift card for 1 hour of your time while helping us build better investing tools for the individual investors like yourself. Sign up here In occupied Donetsk Oblast, Russians recruited convicted women from a penal colony to participate in military operations. Source: summary of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Quote: "To make up for the losses in manpower, Russia is trying to make convicted women participate in the fighting. During the week, Russians recruited about 50 people from the women's penal colony in the city of Snizhne in the temporarily occupied territory of Donetsk Oblast. It is also known that they were sent to the territory of the Russian Federation for training." Previously: British intelligence sees signs of a gradually decreasing scale of involvement of the Russian convicts recruited into Wagner Group in the war in Ukraine. Journalists fight on their own frontline. Support Ukrainska Pravda or become our patron! An Ohio truck driver will serve up to two years in prison for causing a fatal crash on Interstate 70 in 2020 that left a New Stanton man dead. According to our partners at TribLIVE.com, Charles Walker, 59, of Columbus, Ohio pleaded guilty in December. Walker was charged with vehicular homicide, aggravated assault by a vehicle and other traffic related offenses in connection with the crash. The crash took place on Oct. 21, 2020 and left 27-year-old Dillon Walton dead. Two people from New York were severely injured. Police said Walker was driving a tractor-trailer when it ran into the back of Waltons vehicle that was sitting in traffic on the Matthew Smelser Memorial Bridge. Walton was on his way home from attending a coworkers funeral at the time of the collision. He was pronounced dead at the scene. Defense attorney Ernest H. Sharif said Walker fell asleep as he was driving the truck. Id like to apologize to the family for the unfortunate incident that happened. It was nothing I intended to do and it was just a bad accident, Walker said. A judge ordered Walker to serve one to two years in prison and an additional four years on probation. Download the FREE WPXI News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Channel 11 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch WPXI NOW TRENDING NOW: Gasped for air: Woman declared dead found breathing in body bag at funeral home Pittsburgh womans blood alcohol over 5 times legal limit in Penn Hills head-on crash, police say Pittsburgh restaurant named one of Yelps top 100 restaurants for 2023 VIDEO: Brackenridge Borough meets to discuss naming street after fallen Police Chief Justin McIntire DOWNLOAD the Channel 11 News app for breaking news alerts The receding shoreline of the Great Salt Lake in September 2022, two months before it reached its historic low level. (Rick Bowmer / Associated Press) We often describe the stillness and quiet of the desert as timeless. But deserts are dynamic and desert lakes fragile, none more so than Utahs Great Salt Lake. Emblematic of the Wests Great Basin, the Great Salt Lake has no outlet. The lake can only hold its own against evaporation if sufficient water arrives from three river systems fed by mountain snowmelt. When inflow decreases, the lake recedes. Each year since 2020, the Great Salt Lake received less than a third of its average (since 1850) stream flow. The lake level fell to the lowest surface elevation ever recorded, 4,188 feet above sea level, in November 2022. The crisis is real. The Great Salt Lake is disappearing. This largest saltwater lake in the Western Hemisphere is essentially a shallow saucer, with an average depth of just under 15 feet. Every one-foot drop in surface level matters. By the end of last year, the lake had lost 73% of its water and 60% of its area, exposing more than 800 square miles of lakebed sediments dense with heavy metals and organic pollutants. A group of 31 concerned scientists and conservationists issued a call to arms on Jan. 4. Without emergency action to double the lakes inflow, it could be gone in five years. Settlers in Utah who have lived with the Great Salt Lake for 170 years have mostly taken the iconic briny shallow and its fiery sunsets for granted, a given in the states landscape and resources. The lake and its wetlands yield minerals, thousands of jobs, and an annual $2.5 billion for the Utah economy. Its brine shrimp eggs are used worldwide as food for farmed fish and shrimp, providing crucial calories for millions of people. The lake suppresses windblown toxic dust, boosts precipitation of incoming storms through the lake effect, and supports 80% of Utahs wetlands critical habitat for globally significant populations of migratory birds. All these wonders do best with a minimum healthy surface elevation of about 4,200 feet, which the Great Salt Lake hasnt seen for 20 years. And while this winters atmospheric rivers brought record precipitation that raised the lake by a foot, water diversions have continued unabated. A drying and warming climate will increase evapotranspiration and decrease stream flow, but it is irrigated agriculture that has created our current crisis. Story continues As the lake shrinks, it grows saltier, now measuring 19% salinity (six times as salty as the ocean), well past the 12% salinity favored by two crucial food chains in the lake. Algae feed the brine shrimp; mats of cyanobacteria growing on mounds called microbialites nourish brine flies. More than 10 million migratory birds, in turn, feast on these shrimp and flies. Each of the migrating 5 million eared grebes that return to the lake each year eats 30,000 brine shrimp a day for months. Half of the worlds population of Wilsons phalaropes depends on the lakes brine flies and midge larvae to take on fat reserves for their 3,400-mile nonstop migration to South America. Without the lifeline of the lake and its resources, these birds cant survive their migration. The shrimp and flies havent disappeared yet, but the retreating lake has beached the microbialite mounds like tombstones, in Bonnie Baxters words. That spells famine for the phalaropes. In the summer of 2022, Baxter, director of the Great Salt Lake Institute at Salt Lake Citys Westminster College, encountered no adult brine flies and no birds on the shores of the lakes Antelope Island, now a peninsula because of low water levels. She should have seen hovering clouds of the insects. Were seeing this system crash before our eyes, Baxter says, with sorrow. A total collapse in food-chain resources could lead to Endangered Species Act listing for any of these species at risk. Such a listing would have an immeasurable impact on water management in northern Utah, with federal intervention in every proposed project that might affect stream flows and aquifer recharge. These facts have caught the attention of Washington and Utah politicians. President Biden signed the Saline Lake Ecosystems act in December, providing $25 million to study and monitor vulnerable salt lakes across the Intermountain West. Such funding is welcome, but the lake needs water, not studies about 2 million acre-feet arriving each year. Because Utah manages its own water, it is finally up to the state Legislature to save the lake. We cant legislate weather or climate. But we can pass mandates and incentives to reduce water use, especially by agriculture, which accounts for two-thirds of diversions in the Great Salt Lake watershed. Nearly 70% of water used by Utah farmers goes to raising alfalfa hay a water-intensive crop that adds just 0.2% to the states gross domestic product. Nearly all that water is unmetered; farmers have no financial incentive to conserve. As for household consumption, Utahns use the most domestic water per capita in the Southwest and pay the least for their water of any state. Some legislators dream of fixes that wont involve cutbacks: tree-thinning in mountain forest that might increase runoff, cloud-seeding, pipelines. None of these will suffice, according to water experts. Significant legislation and creative funding ideas are coming from both Democrats and Republicans. One proposal would divert sales tax money to compensate ranchers and farmers who let fields go fallow. A proposed Great Salt Lake Authority would centralize management. Grants for high-tech agriculture optimization could decrease farmers water use by 30%. Modernizing water rights law could keep water in streams and deliver more inflow to the lake. The Utah Legislature began its 2023 session on Jan. 17. Its members have 45 days until the end of the session on March 3 to take action to save the Great Salt Lake from collapse. Scientists say waiting another year will be too late for the lake to recover. Brigham Young University ecologist Ben Abbott, lead author of the scientists call to arms, sums up the challenge: Weve got to act now. Unlike politicians, hydrology doesnt negotiate. Record snowfall blanketed the Wasatch Mountains above Salt Lake City this winter. But a single years anomalous change in weather cant alter one stark fact: Utah is and will remain the second-driest state in the nation. Utah must come to grips with its arid heart. Stephen Trimble lives in Salt Lake City. A 35th anniversary update of his book "The Sagebrush Ocean: A Natural History of the Great Basin" will be published next year. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. Opportunity, means and motive the three pillars of a criminal prosecution were sketched out in sharp relief at the Alex Murdaugh trial this week in what appeared to be a series of courtroom losses for the man at the center of a gruesome double murder case that has gripped America. Mixing deep south intrigue, family squabbles, political corruption and brutal violence including a faked assassination attempt against Murdaugh himself the trial playing out in Walterboro, South Carolina, has attracted throngs of journalists and daily coverage in US media. Related: The Murdaugh trial begins: the family murders that rocked South Carolina Jurors have now heard claims that Murdaugh, 54, shot dead his 52-year-old wife, Maggie, and 22-year-old son Paul, just hours after his business partner confronted him about $792,000 missing from the family law firm. He broke down crying, Chris Wilson, Murdaughs business partner, testified on Thursday, before Murdaugh told him he had been stealing money from the company to support an opioid addiction for more than 20 years. Murdaughs tears have become a theme of the trial. At times during the opening days of the case, during which graphic pictures and body-cam footage of the crime scene has been shown to the court, Murdaugh has sobbed or wiped his eyes with a tissue. The defendant has also been supported by his surviving son, Buster, 26. In one exchange, Murdaugh, who has pleaded not guilty and faces life in prison without parole if found guilty, turned to his son to ask: Are you OK? Buster nodded in response. Prosecutors claim that Murdaugh committed the horrific murders to divert attention away from the decade of financial crimes that were at the time gathering about the defendant like a perfect storm. But jurors in the case have not yet heard the extent of the financial claims against Murdaugh that amount to 99 separate charges, ranging from tax evasion to embezzlement. At the time of the murders, Murdaugh was also facing a lawsuit over the death of a 19-year-old, Mallory Beach, in a boat accident involving his son Paul. Story continues At a hearing scheduled for three days after the killings, Murdaughs financial records which civil court filings said would expose [Murdaugh] for his years of alleged misdeeds could have been made public. In the murder trial, prosecutor Creighton Waters has said he wants Murdaughs financial condition admitted to establish a motive for the murders so jurors can comprehend that the defendant was out of options and out of time. By murdering his wife and son, prosecutors said, Murdaugh hoped to buy time and sympathy. He was burning through cash like crazy, Waters said last week outside the presence of the jury. He had been living in a velocity of money that is really quite stunning. But Murdaughs defense has fought vigorously to prevent any financial motive from being admitted into court, with defense attorney Jim Griffin calling the move totally inappropriate. The exchange over Murdaughs finances came after seemingly damning evidence placed the defendant at the scene of the crime at the estimated time of the murders between 9pm and 9.30pm on 7 June 2021. Related: Murder, missing money and cover-up claims: South Carolina family mystery grips America Murdaugh, it is alleged, met his wife and son for dinner before shooting them dead at the kennels of their country estate, Moselle, using separate weapons to make it look like an ambush. The defendant has claimed he was asleep in the house, then woke to visit his ailing mother before returning to find his wife and son dead. But the court has heard from a South Carolina investigator who testified that Murdaugh muttered: I did him so bad after being shown a picture of his sons body during an interview three days after the killings. Murdaughs defense claimed that he in fact said: They did him so bad and asked why, if Murdaugh had said I did him so bad investigators didnt follow up on it and ask him to clarify what he meant. It was early in the investigation, it was more of an information-gathering interview and we did not at that particular time have any evidence to challenge anything that Alex would have told us, state law enforcement division (Sled) agent Jeff Croft said. According to prosecutors, the timeline of events shows Murdaugh was at the crime scene at the time of the murders. Paul Murdaugh sent a Snapchat video riding around the estate at 7.56pm. Twenty minutes later, at 8.15pm, Murdaughs wife Maggie arrived home and the family ate dinner. Fifteen minutes later, Pauls phone starts moving towards the kennels. A second video, at 8.44pm, appears to show that all three of the Murdaughs were together at the kennels. Five minutes later, the phone is locked. But at 9.06pm Murdaughs car starts, and the defendant goes to visit his mother. An hour later, at 10.07pm, Murdaugh called 911 to say he had arrived home to find both his wife and son dead. The gates near Alex Murdaughs estate Moselle, where his wife and son were shot. Photograph: Jeffrey Collins/AP Investigators later determined that both had been shot multiple times before they were ultimately shot in their heads Paul with a shotgun and Maggie with an AR-style rifle. His brain flew out, the lead defense attorney, Dick Harpootlian, said in court of Pauls death. Theres hair and blood and pieces of skull in the ceiling around him. Investigators have testified that Murdaughs hands and clothes were clean of blood, despite claiming that he attempted to turn his sons body over to check for a pulse. Did he look like someone who had just blown his sons head off? Griffin asked rhetorically. Laura Rutland, a detective with the Colleton county sheriffs office, said she could not say for sure. During the investigation, police found an arsenal of weapons at the house but never the two weapons a shotgun and AR-15 used to commit the crime. But similar ammunition to the type used in the killings was found at the home. The defense claims Paul Murdaugh was known to leave guns and ammunition all over the property. Defense lawyers also claim theres a reasonable explanation for the distance between the shots that killed the pair, with one victim Paul found inside the kennels and his mother gunned down some distance away. Related: The lawyer who tried faking his death, and the writer exposing his crime dynasty There are two people there, there are two guns there, ones a shotgun, ones an AR, Harpootlian said. He suggested that Paul could have been shot by one perpetrator, while another who was acting as the lookout was surprised by Maggie. As part of the defenses effort to undermine the prosecutions case, they raised questions about investigators apparent failure to preserve footprints and tire tracks found at the crime scene. Daniel Greene, a police officer who attended the crime scene, said preserving that evidence was not part of my job description. Harpootlian raised concerns about crime scene preservation. At least one bloody footprint found was created by one of the first responders. Should the police be walking through the scene? Harpootlian asked Sled investigator Melinda Worley. No, Worley replied. Do we know what other evidence they may have destroyed? Harpootlian asked Worley. I have no idea, Worley replied. No, you dont, Harpootlian shot back. How closely prosecutors can tie Murdaugh to the crime scene remains key to the case. Theres no direct evidence. Theres no eyewitnesses. Theres nothing on camera. Theres no fingerprints. Theres no forensics tying him to the crime. None, Harpootlian told jurors. The trial continues. Ozzy Osbourne (Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP, File) Ozzy Osbourne has vowed to return to performing as soon as possible after cancelling his UK and European tour. The Black Sabbath rocker, 74, announced on Wednesday, 1 February he was "physically incapable" of going on his upcoming No More Tours II Tour after a spinal operation. Read more: Sharon Osbourne forced to move back to UK claiming 'America blacklisted me' But in a new interview with Billboard, Osbourne has vowed he's not given up hope of getting back on stage in the future. "My fans - that's the thing that I really miss about not doing gigs," he said. Ozzy Osbourne (AP Photo/Ashley Landis) "I'm a hands-on guy. I like talking to my fans. I miss them terribly. My goal is to get back on stage as soon as possible." Osbourne had previously said he would perform on the tour "if it killed him" but his ailing health has proven too much for the famed rocker to fight against. The tour was due to kick off in Finland on May 3rd, and continue around the continent before ending in his native Birmingham on June 14th. Read more: Ozzy Osbourne admits reality show fears as original series drove family crazy The star who confirmed in 2020 he had been diagnosed with Parkinson's disease has suffered a number of accidents over the years which ultimately contributed towards his need for an operation. The most prominent of which happened in 2019, when he fell down the stairs of his Los Angeles mansion. WATCH: Ozzy Osbourne Talks Working With Taylor Hawkins, Post Malone & More | Billboard News Osbourne has been needing assistance ever since, walking with a cane, and has since relocated his family home to Buckinghamshire in England. In the official statement cancelling his tour, Osbourne wrote on Instagram: "This is probably one of the hardest things Ive ever had to share with my loyal fans. As you may all know, four years ago, this month, I had a major accident, where I damaged my spine. Read more: Ozzy Osbourne doesn't want 'anyone like Johnny Depp' to play him in biopic Story continues "My one and only purpose during this time has been to get back on stage. My singing voice is fine. However, after three operations, stem cell treatments, endless physical therapy sessions, and most recently groundbreaking Cybernics (HAL) Treatment, my body is still physically weak. Ozzy Osbourne (Amy Harris/Invision/AP) "I am honestly humbled by the way youve all patiently held onto your tickets for all this time, but in all good conscience, I have now come to the realization that Im not physically capable of doing my upcoming European/UK tour dates, as I know I couldnt deal with the travel required. Believe me when I say that the thought of disappointing my fans really F**KS ME UP, more than you will ever know." Read more: Ozzy Osbourne vows to get back on stage even 'if it f***ing kills me' after fall "Never would I have imagined that my touring days would have ended this way. My team is currently coming up with ideas for where I will be able to perform without having to travel from city to city and country to country," he continued. "I want to thank my familymy band.my crewmy longtime friends, @JudasPriest , and of course, my fans for their endless dedication, loyalty, and support, and for giving me the life that I never ever dreamed I would have. "I love you all" Ticket refunds are available at point of purchase. WATCH: Ozzy Osbourne is not 'physically capable' of touring A man was found dead in a car on Route 7 in Norwalk and parts of that roadway and Interstate 95 ramps were closed for a time on Saturday due to a homicide investigation, police said. About 3:19 a.m. Saturday Connecticut state troopers responded to a report of a single vehicle accident on Route 7 northbound near Exit 2 in Norwalk and found John Gavilanes, 35, dead in the drivers seat of the vehicle, according to Connecticut State Police. Investigators determined that Gavilanes died as the result of a homicide, not from the crash, police said. The Western District Major Crime Squad was investigating and police said the homicide appears to be an isolated incident and that there was no ongoing threat to the public, police said. Route 7 to Exit 2 and the I-95 southbound and northbound entrance ramps to Route 7 were closed while the investigation was ongoing, police said. Anyone with information about the death, or anyone with a dashboard camera who was driving through the area at the time of the incident, is asked to contact Detective Nicholas Olivetti at (203) 696-2563 or nicholas.olivetti@ct.gov. All calls will remain confidential, police said. An investigation is underway in Brevard County after a pedestrian was hit and killed on Friday, police say. Officers responded to a crash involving an SUV and a pedestrian near the intersection of Sarno Road and North Wickham Road in Melbourne. >>> STREAM CHANNEL 9 EYEWITNESS NEWS LIVE <<< When police arrived, they located a pedestrian suffering from life-threatening injuries as a result of the crash. The man was transported to the hospital, where he later died from his injuries. Investigators said a Chevrolet Equinox was traveling eastbound on Sarno Road and while attempting to pass another vehicle hit the pedestrian who was attempting to run across the street. Read: Cold start to the weekend, with chance of rain moving in Police said impairment by drugs or alcohol is not believed to be a factor in this crash on part of the driver. Read: A path forward to more sustainability: Disney union celebrates after voting down contract offer The crash remains under investigation. Read: A Christmas Story, Close Encounters of the Third Kind actress Melinda Dillon dies at 83 Click here to download the free WFTV news and weather apps, click here to download the WFTV Now app for your smart TV and click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live. Former Vice President Mike Pence is traveling to South Carolina on Monday amid increasing speculation that hes eyeing a 2024 White House bid and following former President Trumps visit to the state last month. Pence will visit with local law enforcement officials, including Police Chief Reggie Burgess, while in North Charleston and participate in a law enforcement roundtable, according to his PAC. Hell also participate in a meet and greet with Horry County Republican Party members while in Myrtle Beach, in addition to local business and civic leaders. The visit will take place more than a week after Trump visited South Carolina and New Hampshire two key early presidential primary states. The news also comes as Nikki Haley, a former South Carolina governor and former ambassador to the U.N., is expected to announce a 2024 White House bid in her home state later this month, and after Sen. Tim Scott (R-S.C.) recently launched a Faith in America listening tour amid speculation that he will mount his own presidential run. The tour includes speaking arrangements in both South Carolina and Iowa, the first caucus state. So far, Trump is the only high profile Republican who has officially announced hes running for the White House, though the convergence of several widely floated 2024 GOP contenders in South Carolina suggests that wont be the case for long. Pence has also been traveling to promote his book So Help Me God, and book tours often prelude bigger political announcements, such as running for president. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Pep Guardiola remains a big admirer of Tottenhams Harry Kane (Adam Davy/PA) (PA Wire) Pep Guardiola maintains that Harry Kane is one the best strikers he has ever seen. Guardiolas Manchester City failed in their protracted attempts to prise the England captain away from Tottenham in the summer of 2021. The club instead turned their attention to Erling Haaland and this time landed their target, with the Norwegian moving to the Etihad Stadium last year. In terms of goals, that deal has proved a huge success with the prolific Haaland having netted 31 times in 27 appearances this term. Guardiola therefore has no reason to dwell on what might have been with Kane, ahead of facing him in north London on Sunday, but his admiration for him has not changed. The City manager said: We are extremely happy with Erling and, of course, I think Tottenham are extremely happy with Harry Kane. What an exceptional player the numbers and, more than the goals, the quality. That they didnt win a title (doesnt mean) he is not a good player. I think he proved that. Harry Kane remains one of the best strikers I have ever seen in my life. A goal for Kane on Sunday would see him surpass Jimmy Greaves to become Spurs outright record scorer. The clash at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium will be the second meeting between the clubs in just over a fortnight. Guardiola launched into an extraordinary rant about his players after that last encounter on January 19, questioning their desire and hunger and labelling them as a happy flowers team. The champions had fought back from 2-0 down to win 4-2 but, after defeats in the previous two matches, Guardiola was concerned about performances. City have since beaten Wolves and knocked Arsenal out of the FA Cup, but they still trail the Gunners in the title race. From the results since then, if wed lost or drawn it would have been (seen as) a bad approach, said Guardiola. But I explained my feelings. I know my team, I know the players. It doesnt matter what happened. Always the decisions we take are to do our best and for our benefit. I take responsibility for that, thats why Im in charge. When I said my comments I didnt know what would happen. I just expressed my feelings, first to the team and then in public and thats all. Its just three games after that and we have to continue. By Alexander Villegas LIMA (Reuters) - Peru's Congress shelved President Dina Boluarte's bill to bring elections forward to 2023 on Friday night, leaving a major demand of demonstrators whose protests have rocked the country in recent weeks up in the air. Boluarte had unveiled a bill to bring elections forward to October 2023 on Wednesday in a bid to calm the deadly protests. A fractured Congress has repeatedly failed to agree on its own bill after weeks of political infighting. A congressional commission took up the President's bill Friday afternoon but shelved it on a technicality before it even reached debate. It cannot now be taken up again until July, when a new legislative year starts. Rapid new elections have been a key demand of protesters since former left-wing President Pedro Castillo was ousted and jailed in December after attempting to illegally dissolve Congress. Eight weeks of anti-government protests have resulted in 48 people killed in clashes between demonstrators and security forces, mostly in Peru's copper-rich south. Congress had already agreed to bring forward elections originally scheduled for 2026 to 2024 but that did not halt the protests. One bill to call elections this year by the right-wing Popular Force party failed Wednesday after days of closed door negotiations failed to yield a consensus. Peru Libre, Castillo's party, submitted a separate bill for early elections and a non-binding referendum for a new constitution but that was voted down Thursday night. Other bills to bring elections forward are still in the legislative track but none have drawn consensus. Protesters around Peru have blocked highways with trees, boulders and tires, taken over regional airports and burned buildings, impacting goods transport, business and the operation of some key mines in the world's No. 2 copper producer. (Reporting by Alexander Villegas, Editing by Rosalba O'Brien) A woman was fatally shot after she pointed a gun at Denton County deputies, hours after she was accused of displaying a handgun and making suicidal comments at an Arlington hospital on Saturday, according to the Denton County Sheriffs Office. At around 8:55 a.m., police responded to Arlington Memorial Hospital after staff reported that a woman entered the emergency-room lobby and displayed a handgun. The woman began making suicidal comments, according to a statement from the Arlington Police Department. A hospital security employee confronted the woman and told her to leave. She then exited the lobby and left the hospital before officers arrived, Arlington police said. No shots were fired at the hospital, and there were no reports of any injuries. Regional law enforcement partners were notified and Arlington police began searching for the woman. Denton County Sheriffs Office deputies found an unoccupied vehicle related to the incident around noon in the parking lot of Greenbelt Corridor Park in the 6800 block of East University. Deputies searched the trails in the park and when they found the woman who had been driving the vehicle, she pointed a gun at deputies, according to a new release from the Denton County Sheriffs Office. The woman refused to comply with the deputies commands to drop the weapon, officials said in the news release. Deputies fired their weapons, striking the woman. The sheriffs office did not say how many deputies fired their guns or how many shots were fired. Deputies rendered emergency aid to the woman, but she did not survive. The Tarrant County Medical Examiners Office identified the woman as Victoria Lauren Edwards, 29, of Arlington. An ongoing investigation of the shooting is being conducted by the Texas Rangers. If you or a loved one are experiencing a crisis, call 988, the new, three-digit shortcut that will direct callers to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. Kemberle Kem Braden was installed as Fayetteville's 25th police chief in a Friday afternoon ceremony in the City Council chamber. The event was standing-room only, with some people sitting in an overflow room across the hall. Braden, who received a standing ovation after being sworn in, said with a smile he was skeptical the installation would fill the chamber. More:Pitts: 8 ideas Fayetteville police should follow, no matter who is next chief Im just overwhelmed by the amount of people here today, he said, and I thank everyone thats here. Braden joined the department in 1996 and thanked the department under Chief Ron Hansen for giving a 22-year-old kid an opportunity right out of Basic Law Enforcement Training. Swearing in ceremony for Police Chief Kemberle Braden on Friday, Feb. 3, 2023, at Fayetteville City Hall. Braden said he spoke to a police academy class recently and promised them the same opportunity, to have a career they could be proud of after they retire. More:Five things to know about Fayetteville's new police chief It all depends on us, he said. To me, today is not the culmination of my career, but the start of the next chapter. I look forward to working with everybody in this room. Mayor Mitch Colvin. several City Council members and former police chiefs, including Tom Bergamine and Harold Medlock, were in attendance. More:Two current assistant chiefs vying to be top cop at Fayetteville Police Department Braden was sworn in by Cumberland County Senior Resident Superior Court Judge Jim Ammons, who has known Braden since 1996. Bradens wife, Beth, stood by his side. They have two adult children and two grandchildren. Kemberle Braden, right, is sworn-in as police chief with his wife, Beth Braden by his side on Friday, Feb. 3, 2023, at Fayetteville City Hall. After the swearing-in, Ammons joked with the chief: Kiss your wife, shake my hand and get it right. Braden is the first Asian-American police chief in Fayetteville's history and has lived here for 45 years. His father served in Special Forces and was stationed at Fort Bragg. He has held multiple roles in his 27-year career with the Fayetteville Police Department; he supervised a Gun and Gang task force and served 22 years on the emergency response team. His previous job was as an assistant police chief. Story continues Braden becomes the top cop when the Police Department has experienced some turbulence. Former Chief Police Gina Hawkins, who retired, received some criticism for the departments handling of downtown protests on May 30, 2020 after the death of George Floyd. There were no injuries, but riots damaged several properties, and two men were charged with setting fire to the historic Market House. The department is also trying to reduce a high murder rate, which has plagued many cities since the COVID-19 pandemic. Braden, when he was a finalist for the job, said one tactic he would try to bring down violent crime is to track repeat offenders. He said on Friday he had been asked a lot of questions over the past several weeks and several days about his plans and what changes he would make. Its all yet to be determined, he said. Im not trying to rush anything too fast. I truly want to take my time and figure out the things that need to happen so that we can be effective in moving forward as an agency and as a community. Myron B. Pitts can be reached at mpitts@fayobserver.com or 910-486-3559. This article originally appeared on The Fayetteville Observer: Kem Braden takes the helm of Fayetteville Police Department William Jones, 40, is wanted in connection to a Jan. 11 fatal shooting outside of Pinnon Meats, 2324 N. Court St., in Rockford. Rockford police posted on its Twitter account shortly before 1 a.m. Saturday that its search for a man wanted in the shooting death of a Rockford woman has come to an end. "The man charged with the murder of Peggy Anderson at Pinnons in early January is now in custody in Huntsville, Alabama," the department stated. Rockford police released the name and age of its suspect William Jones, 40 and issued a warrant for Jones' arrest five days after Anderson's Jan. 11 shooting death. Images of Jones were released to the public to assist in Jones' capture the day after the shooting. On Wednesday, a group of local businessmen offered a $10,000 reward for anyone who comes forward with information that leads to Jones' arrest. More:After deadly shooting at Pinnon's, Rockford man asks city to release information faster Anderson was a longtime Pinnon Meats employee who lived in an apartment above the popular butcher shop on North Court Street in Rockford. Police said Jones robbed Anderson and took her belongings outside of the business on Jan 11. During the altercation, police said Jones shot Anderson, who died at the scene. According to police, the North Alabama Violent Crime Task Force took Jones into custody Friday night, and Jones was lodged in the Madison County Jail in Huntsville, Alabama. In a statement released Saturday, Rockford Police Chief Carla Redd thanked law enforcement partners including the North Alabama Violent Crime Task Force, Huntsville Police Department, Madison County Sheriff's Office and Limestone County Sheriff's Office the public and Rockford area businessmen who offered a $10,000 reward for information that led to Jones' arrest. I am thrilled with the partnerships that exist with law enforcement across the country. The collaborative efforts show the overall commitment to public safety, regardless of location, Rockford Police Chief Carla Redd in the statement. Once again, I can't say thank you enough to the entire Rockford community for working with us, and to the three donors for the generous reward incentive they provided. In the statement, police said the North Alabama Violent Crime Task Force followed up on an anonymous tip received by the Rockford Police Department. This article originally appeared on Rockford Register Star: Man wanted in shooting death of Rockford woman found in Alabama By Philip Pullella and Estelle Shirbon JUBA (Reuters) - Pope Francis on Saturday met South Sudanese children displaced by conflict and heard of the hardships of their lives in camps, telling them they would build a better future for the world's newest country by replacing ethnic hatred with forgiveness. The pope was visiting South Sudan with Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby and Church of Scotland Moderator Iain Greenshields - an unprecedented joint "pilgrimage of peace". The three men led about 50,000 people in an open-air ecumenical prayer vigil at dusk at a mausoleum for South Sudan's liberation hero John Garang, who died in a helicopter crash in 2005 before the country gained independence. South Sudan broke away from Sudan in 2011 but plunged into civil war in 2013 with ethnic groups turning on each other. Despite a 2018 peace deal between the two main antagonists, bouts of inter-ethnic fighting have continued to kill and displace large numbers of civilians. At a meeting in the capital Juba earlier, the Christian leaders listened to testimonies from displaced children including Johnson Juma Alex, 14, who has been living in a camp since 2014 after fleeing his hometown because of fighting. "Life in the camp is not good because the area is small and crowded," he told them, reading haltingly from a prepared text in English, which is not his native language. "There is not enough space to play football. Many children do not go to school because there are not enough teachers and schools for all of us," he said. After he spoke, the pope, the archbishop and the moderator warmly shook his hand. There are 2.2 million internally displaced people in South Sudan, out of a total population of about 11.6 million, and another 2.3 million have fled the country as refugees, according to the United Nations. Extreme poverty and hunger are rife across the country, with two thirds of the population needing humanitarian assistance as a result of conflict as well as three years of catastrophic floods. Story continues 'A FIELD TO PLAY FOOTBALL' "The future cannot lie in refugee camps," the pope told the children after hearing their stories at the event, which was held in a prefabricated structure holding about 2,500 people. "As you said, Johnson, there is a need for all children like yourself to have the opportunity to go to school and to have a field to play football!" Francis said hope for South Sudan's future rests in children from different ethnic groups, who have suffered and are still suffering, yet who do not want to respond to evil with more evil. "Although conflict, violence and hatred have replaced good memories on the first pages of the life of this republic, you must be the ones to rewrite its history as a history of peace!" he said. "You bear the burden of a painful past, yet you never stop dreaming of a better future. In our meeting today, we would like to give wings to your hope," he said. At the vigil held as night fell at the Garang mausoleum, Welby also addressed the young people of South Sudan, urging them to reject hatred, armed conflict and sexual violence. "You will not be deceived into war. You will not be forced to kill. You will disagree with others, but still love them," he said. "Young men, you will value and honour women, never raping, never violent, never cruel, never using them as if they were there to satisfy desire." Welby said he, the pope and the moderator had come to South Sudan as family, to be with the people and share the knowledge of their suffering. "We have travelled on this pilgrimage of peace in a way that has never been done before because we love South Sudan," he said, to huge cheers. On Sunday morning, the three Christian leaders will return to the mausoleum to celebrate Mass, their last major event in South Sudan before leaving the country. (Writing by Estelle Shirbon, Editing by Alexandra Hudson and Ros Russell) Pope Francis has been hearing stories of suffering from people caught up in years of warfare. And before the trip, the pontiff discussed a more progressive view of sexual orientation that puts him in opposition to some of his own bishops - and much of African law. Chris Livesay reports. Press Release February 3, 2023 VALEDICTORY ADDRESS Conferment Ceremony: Sherwin T. Gatchalian, Doctor of Education (h.c.) Philippine Normal University February 3, 2023 at 4:00 PM Delivered by the Honorable Win Gatchalian, Senator of the 19th Congress: [Acknowledgment of Dignitaries - AD LIB] "Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world." These wise words, once spoken by Nelson Mandela, come to mind as I stand before you to receive the humbling honor you have bestowed upon me today. One who receives a quality education is armed with a significant advantage in life. He or she will be qualified to undertake more highly skilled jobs, enjoying a much better earning capacity to provide for his or herself and their family. He or she will be better equipped to contribute to nation-building. Every successful learner is a catalyst for positive change. Sabi nga nila, ang edukasyon ay isang kayamanan na hindi mananakaw ninuman. Nagsisilbi itong susi upang mawakasan ang kahirapan. Nagsisilbi itong ilaw tungo sa maunlad na kinabukasan. Early on in my career as a public servant, during my tenure as congressman and mayor of Valenzuela City, I witnessed first-hand the transformative might of education to empower individuals, uplift families, and transform communities. In Valenzuela, we launched a comprehensive education program to reform our schools and arm learners with sharper weapons forged through education. We built thousands of classrooms, provided quality learning materials, invested in state-of-the-art math, science, and technology infrastructure, provided free meals to kindergarten and elementary school children, and revamped our local colleges and universities. Our collective efforts in Valenzuela City transformed our local school system into one of the nation's best. Educational outcomes for our learners improved, and we began to produce more teachers, accountants, engineers, and other professionals. These successful learners have gone on to provide better lives for their families while serving their respective communities as esteemed professionals. The reforms we instituted in Valenzuela City are what inspired me to run for national office. After seeing how the power of education had transformed our city for the better, I was convinced that applying the lessons we had learned at the local level would have the same transformative effect at the national level. One of the pillars of our local education reform program was expanding access to post-secondary education. After years of work, we were able to provide tuition-free education to students of the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Valenzuela and Valenzuela City Polytechnic College, our two local tertiary institutions. Because of this, hardworking yet underprivileged Valenzuelanos who might not have had the chance to go to college were given opportunities to pursue higher education. Heavy burdens were lifted from families struggling to fund the dreams and aspirations of their college-bound children. Nasaksihan ko mismo kung paano nito binago ang buhay ng mga Valenzuelano. Kaya naman sinabi ko sa sarili ko: Kung naisulong natin ang repormang ito sa Valenzuela, bakit hindi natin ito isakatuparan sa buong bansa? Driven by what we achieved in Valenzuela City, I filed the original version of the Free Higher Education Act in July 2015 during my first term as congressman. The bill sought to establish tuition-free education for Filipino undergraduate students enrolled at state universities and colleges. At first, our proposal was met with skepticism. Many questioned the feasibility of implementing such an ambitious policy. Others dismissed the bill as mere politicking to score points with traditional media and netizens. Eventually, however, thought leaders and decisionmakers began to rally behind the Free Higher Education Act once we presented concrete data on its fiscal sustainability and immense potential to heighten the educational attainment and earning capacity of millions of Filipino youth. Thanks to the efforts of countless legislators, technocrats, and civil society stakeholders, an expanded and improved version of our original proposal was signed into law as Republic Act No. 10931 on August 3, 2017. RA 10931 will provide free education in public college and universities and greater financial aid in private institutions for generations of Filipino youth to come. The Free Higher Education Law is just one of many education reforms we have legislated in recent years, with the wholehearted support of education advocates and experts from esteemed institutions like the Philippine Normal University. I cannot thank the administration and faculty of this institution enough for the keen insights you have provided in shaping the laws we have passed during my tenure as Chairperson of the Senate Committee on Basic Education, including the Excellence in Teacher Education Act, the Alternative Learning System Act, the Inclusive Education Act, , and the GMRC and Values Education Act. Truly, the Philippine Normal University has been one of the Senate's foremost partners in crafting transformative education legislation. As a longtime advocate for education reform, it is such an incredible honor and privilege to be awarded an honorary Doctorate in Education from none other than the Philippine Normal University - the country's National Center for Teacher Education and a highly renowned incubator for progressive education policies. I hope to continue relying on your support moving forward, even more so now as an honorary alumnus of your distinguished institution. Though we have accomplished much together in recent years, we still have a lot of work to do. I have spoken at length about the perennial education crisis that continue to affect our nation. The data on hand paint a sobering portrait of an education system that has consistently failed to instill in our learners the basic competencies they need to succeed in adult life. Sa kasalukuyan, marami pa rin sa ating mga kabataan ang hindi nakakakuha ng sapat na kaalaman at kasanayan. Dumagdag pa ang pinsalang dulot ng pandemya na naging sanhi ng paglubha ng krisis sa sektor ng edukasyon. We need to put an end to the education crisis once and for all. You, our noble and selfless teachers, will be at the frontlines of this battle. Thankfully, our recent legislative inquiries at the Senate have revealed several policy thrusts to help us put an end to the education crisis. We need to establish an Academic Recovery and Accessible Learning Program, so that learners affected by pandemic-caused school closures can catch up with their studies and get back on the track towards academic success. We need to take an in-depth look at the successes and failures of the K12 program over the past decade, so that we can better tailor our basic education system to provide quality education and achieve global competitiveness. We need to prioritize digital literacy and make cutting-edge technology available to learners in all public and private educational institutions, so that our children will be better prepared to meet the challenges of our fast-evolving world in the 21st century. We need to make sure that teachers earn the salaries they deserve, so that educators can continue teaching the next generations of Filipino learners without having to suffer financial distress. These are just some of the many reforms we have yet to achieve. The list goes on, and on, and on, just about as long as our education crisis has gone on. Yet, I am confident that we can make significant progress in the coming years, if we can come together and take action to achieve our common vision of a world-class Philippine education system. With this goal in mind, I most humbly and respectfully accept this Doctorate of Education, honoris causa, from the Philippine Normal University. I sincerely thank you all for welcoming me into the PNU family. Now that we are family, I feel more comfortable asking you for help. So, please: Help me achieve our vision. Join me in crafting and implementing the reforms needed to build a world-class Philippine education system, for the benefit of the youth and our beloved country. Together, let us wield the mighty sword of education to change our communities, our nation, and our world for the better. Let's WIN this together! Thank you, and have a most pleasant afternoon! Connecticut is set to receive just over $18 million in federal money to help fund services for the unsheltered homeless population, although advocates say it isnt enough to meet the rising demands faced by an underfunded system. The $18 million from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development will be spent over three years on homelessness outreach, funding for the coordinated access network and permanent supportive housing for the states population of people experiencing homelessness who are staying outdoors, as opposed to living in shelters. Its set to go to the Balance of State Continuum of Care, a network of homelessness service providers, officials said at a press conference in New Haven. When we put housing first, thats the foundation to help people obtain the help with recovery, health care, jobs, that all works, said Richard Cho, a senior advisor at HUD. Weve seen that simple formula put to work. The most recent annual count of the unhoused population showed that there were hundreds of people experiencing homelessness statewide who werent in shelters. The funding announcement came one day after service providers told lawmakers on the Housing Committee about a need for a $50 million investment to annualize money for cold weather services, increase service providers pay and cover other infrastructure in the states homeless response system. Advocates said the grant is a step forward, but its not a replacement for the state investments theyre requesting. This is one-time funding, said Sarah Fox, chief operations officer at the Connecticut Coalition to End Homelessness. We have a huge challenge serving people. We need investment from the state. Homelessness data showed an increase in the population for the first time in years in January 2022 from 2,594 in 2021 to 2,930. And providers said that its continued to rise since then. Gov. Ned Lamont said his new budget, which hell announce later this month, includes one of the biggest commitments to housing, in years but didnt directly say whether he supports the additional $50 million. The budget, he said, includes investments in deeply affordable housing and workforce housing, among other measures. The state lacks tens of thousands of units of housing that are affordable to its lowest-income renters, one of the challenges homelessness service providers have faced in recent years. I need more options, Lamont said, of housing. Connecticut was one of 46 recipients of HUDs new set of grants and vouchers to address unsheltered and rural homelessness, one of several recent measures the Biden administration has announced to help alleviate a nationwide housing crisis. The need for supports for the unsheltered population becomes even more urgent as temperatures drop, said Sen. Richard Blumenthal. This weather is bone-chilling, frigid and deeply dangerous, Blumenthal said. Were at a point of maximum danger in terms of public health right now. Were talking here about survival. The grants total $315 million, and HUD officials plan to announce more recipients in the coming weeks. In Connecticut, $2 million will be spent each year on homelessness outreach, said Steve DiLella, director of the state Department of Housings Individual and Family Supports Program. Another $2 million will go to local hubs in the coordinated access network. Previously, people could get an intake appointment by calling 211. In December, the state decided to allow a few local shelters, called hubs, to accept people into the system directly, in addition to 211 calls, DiLella said. The other $2 million annually will pay for permanent supportive housing for people getting off the streets. That type of housing will include mental health and addiction services. Mental health issues and addiction are often barriers to accessing shelter for people. The states Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services will receive 40 housing vouchers for people exiting homelessness, Commissioner Nancy Navarretta said. U.S. Sen. Chris Murphy called for more housing. As much as these services are important, we dont have enough housing, we do not have enough units in this state and in this country, Murphy said. Leopard 2 tank Costa also said that Portugal is currently working with Germany to carry out a logistics operation that will allow the supply of spare parts for the restoration of some tanks. Read also: Portugal announces further military aid to Ukraine We are currently working to be able to dispense some of our tanks, Costa told Lusa news agency during a trip to the Central African Republic. I know how many tanks will be (sent to Ukraine) but that will be announced at the appropriate time. Costa noted that the movement that is taking place in Europe is to be able to have all these means available by the end of March. On Jan. 25, Germany approved the transfer of 14 Leopard 2 tanks to Ukraine and their re-export from partner countries. German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius said that the first tanks can be sent to Ukraine by the end of March. Read also: Germany approves delivery of Leopard 1 tanks to Ukraine, in talks with Qatar over Gepards On the same day, the United States announced the future deployment of 31 Abrams tanks to the front. On Jan. 31, Ukrainian Minister of Foreign Affairs Dmytro Kuleba said that Ukraine will receive 120-140 modern Western tanks in the first wave, adding that the tank coalition already includes 12 participating countries. Read also: Sending tanks became possible after Ukraine and Russia both rejected comprise peace deal, media report says Earlier, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said that the defenders of Ukraine need 300-500 tanks to launch an offensive to liberate more Ukrainian territory from Russian invasion forces. Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine Lisa Marie Presley, from left, Priscilla Presley and Riley Keough, family members of the late singer Elvis Presley. (Jordan Strauss / Invision / Associated Press ) When Priscilla Presley challenged her late daughter's will last week, it raised the prospect of a family rift and a messy legal battle over who would guide Elvis' lucrative estate. But legal experts say the court is likely to back Priscilla's claim. In a Los Angeles court filing, Presley asked a judge to invalidate a recently discovered 2016 document one that replaced Presley and Barry Siegel (her daughter's former manager) as co-trustees of Lisa Marie Presley's trust with Lisa Marie's children, Riley and Benjamin Keough. Elvis' ex-wife has cited various factors, including a suggestion that her daughter's signature may have been forged. Attorney Benny Roshan, chair of Greenberg Gluskers Trusts and Probate Litigation Group, said Priscilla Presley has a good case. "They have made allegations that raise very valid concerns," Roshan said. While the filing doesn't reveal a falling out between mother and daughter, it has put the family's personal dealings over the estate of the rock n roll star in a public forum. Lisa Marie Presley had appointed her mother and Siegel as co-trustees of her trust in 1993, according to her Jan. 26 petition. But after she died on Jan. 12 in L.A., her mother said she discovered an amendment to the will, dated March 11, 2016, that replaced them both as trustees upon her death. Priscilla Presley alleged the amendment was never delivered to her while Lisa Marie was alive, as required in the original trust. In her petition, she noted the date of the document misspelled Priscilla's name; that her signature looked inconsistent with her usual sign off; and it was neither witnessed nor notarized. "They're very good points," said Cynthia Brittain of Karlin & Peebles. "If everything is as they portrayed, the case law is pretty clear." Not only does the original trust document set out the process for amending it, California law establishes that orders laid out in such a document should be followed, Roshan said. Story continues "California law confirms Priscilla's position that if the instrument provides a particular method of revocation, amendment or alteration, and you don't follow that, then it's not a valid instrument," Roshan said. "You have multiple bases to challenge this new amendment." Sarah J. Wentz, a partner at Fox Rothschild, agreed. "I think she does [have a good case]" Wentz said. "Unless [Riley] has some sort of claim that there was a bias against her and that the trustee couldn't be fair and impartial to her, I think that Priscilla will stay as the trustee." Wentz also noted that the petition highlights that the signature of the amendment did not contain any text of the amendment, which Priscilla Presley said in her petition "can present a higher risk of fraud." If the disagreement requires the court to investigate the authenticity of the signature, in some states like Texas a jury could decide the matter, said Dallas-based Ryan Sellers of the law firm Hales & Sellers. But the California probate code, under which the Presley case falls, does not allow for jury trials in trust disputes. Litigation over the validity of wills is common, especially in cases involving high-profile individuals. "It's very common for relatives to come forward and dispute a particular change that decedent made during their lifetime," Roshan said. Notwithstanding the legal dispute, Priscilla Presley denied any family rift in a statement Friday. "I loved Elvis very much as he loved me," she said. "Lisa is a result of our love. For anyone to think anything differently would be a travesty of the family legacy and would be disrespectful of what Elvis left behind in his life." Lisa Marie Presley is survived by her three daughters, actor Riley Keough, 33, and twins Harper and Finley Lockwood, from two different ex-husbands. Her son Benjamin died in 2020 at age 27. The children have not yet commented on Priscillas filing. A representative for Riley Keough did not respond to The Times' request for comment. Lisa Marie's stake in the Elvis estate has faded over the years but remains sizable, including Graceland, a magnet for fans. She also retained ownership of her fathers costumes, cars, awards and other possessions, according to the mansions website. The Graceland property is in a trust that will now go to the benefit of Lisa Maries children, a Graceland spokesperson said previously. Nothing will change with the operation or management, the representative said. Joel Weinshanker, managing partner at Elvis Presley Enterprises, the corporation founded by the Elvis Presley Trust that was at one point owned by Lisa Marie, said this week that she had always intended for her two children to lead her estate. "There was never a question in her mind that they would be the stewards, that they would look at it exactly the same way she did, he said. In 2018, Siegel and Lisa Marie Presley battled in court. She claimed to be more than $16 million in debt that year and sued Siegel over alleged financial mismanagement. Her former manager then countersued, accusing Presley of wasting her inheritance and owing him money. Siegel either planned to, or had already resigned, as co-trustee, it said. Siegel would be replaced by Lisa Marie's daughter, Riley Keough, according to the petition. It's unclear whether or not Presley's granddaughter Riley wanted to serve as a co-trustee on the estate with Priscilla, which could complicate the court's decision, Brittain said. Brittain said a judge could deem that if the granddaughter does not want to serve with her grandmother, or if there is some rift, that putting them together may not be in the best interest of the beneficiaries. "We often put corporate trustees in when there's conflict within the family," Brittain said. "Because No. 1, the family's had a tremendous loss and everybody's grieving. Sometimes people grabbed for control, not because they're controlling, but it's some way of remaining close to the decedent. Maybe the petitioner thinks that way she can be closer to her granddaughter." This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. Andrii Yermak, Head of the Presidents Office of Ukraine, has reported that another large exchange of prisoners of war took place on 4 February, with 116 people having been released. Source: Yermak on Telegram Details: As Yermak says, among the liberated are defenders of Mariupol, Kherson resistance members, snipers from the Bakhmut front and other heroes of Ukraine. Quote from Yermak: "87 soldiers of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, two of whom are part of the Special Operations Forces. Eight soldiers from the Territorial Defence Forces, seven from the National Guard, six from the National Police, five from the State Border Guard Service, two from the Navy and one from the State Emergency Service. That includes two officers and 114 privates and sergeants. In addition, we managed to bring back the bodies of Christopher Matthew Perry and Andrew Tobias Matthew, the foreign volunteers who were killed, as well as the body of Yevhen Kulyk, a Ukrainian soldier who perished, who served in the French Foreign Legion and came back to defend Ukraine after the start of the full-scale Russian invasion." More details: Meanwhile, the Russian side reports that the PoW exchange took place "through mediation led by the United Arab Emirates," and the occupiers had 63 of their soldiers released. Journalists fight on their own frontline. Support Ukrainska Pravda or become our patron! By Philip Pullella JUBA (Reuters) - Pope Francis joined other Christian leaders and the U.N. on Saturday in urging the protection and advancement of women in South Sudan, where rape has been a weapon of war, child brides are common and most girls do not reach secondary education. The rights of girls and women was a recurring theme on the penultimate day of the pope's visit to South Sudan, an unprecedented joint "pilgrimage of peace" with Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby and Church of Scotland Moderator Iain Greenshields. "Please, protect, respect, appreciate and honour every woman, every girl, young woman, mother and grandmother. Otherwise, there will be no future," the pope said during a meeting of the three leaders with people displaced by conflict. Later, Welby returned to the theme in his address to about 50,000 people at an ecumenical prayer vigil at a mausoleum to South Sudan's liberation hero John Garang. "Young men, you will value and honour women, never raping, never violent, never cruel, never using them as if they were there to satisfy desire," he said. "Women of South Sudan, I know that on top of the grief of conflict and the responsibility to provide for your families, many of you live with the trauma of sexual violence and the daily fear of mistreatment in your own homes". A United Nations report on South Sudan issued last March condemned widespread sexual violence against women and girls in conflict and said it was "fuelled by systemic impunity". The report said "widespread rape is being perpetrated by all armed groups across the country, often as part of military tactics for which government and military leaders are responsible". South Sudan broke away from Sudan in 2011 but plunged into civil war in 2013 with ethnic groups turning on each other. Despite a 2018 peace deal between the two main antagonists, bouts of inter-ethnic fighting have continued to kill and displace large numbers of civilians. Story continues PROTECT, RESPECT, HONOUR At the event where the three religious leaders heard accounts from children living in displaced persons camps, the resident U.N. humanitarian coordinator in South Sudan, Sara Beysolow Nyanti, also raised the issue of pervasive sexual violence against women and girls. The pope responded by calling on everyone in South Sudan "to ensure that women are protected, respected, valued and honoured". Francis said that if women are given opportunities "they will have the ability to change the face of South Sudan, to give it a peaceful and cohesive development!" Sister Orla Treacy, an Irish member of the Loreto Sisters religious order who runs a school in Rumbek, north of the capital, and works to prevent child marriages, said less than 5% of girls finish secondary school. About 10% of 15-year-old girls and 52% of 18-year-old girls in South Sudan are married, she said. Treacy and a group of students had walked about 200 km (125 miles) from Lakes State to see the pope. She said the governor of that region had recently signed a decree promising to stop child marriages. South Sudan has the world's highest maternal mortality rate, according to the World Bank, and poverty and hunger are rife across the country, with two thirds of the population needing humanitarian assistance as a result of conflict as well as three years of catastrophic floods. (Reporting by Philip Pullella; Editing by Estelle Shirbon and Frances Kerry) About 50 protesters shut down traffic at the intersection of Poplar Ave. and Danny Thomas Blvd. around 1:15 p.m. Saturday and called for police reform in the wake of Tyre Nichols' death. Protestors in support of Tyre Nichols gather in front of the Federal courthouse at 140 Adams street and march to the intersection of Poplar and Danny Thomas Blvd, near the Shelby County Jail on Feb. 4, 2023 in Memphis. The peaceful "Justice for Tyre" protest, organized by Black Lives Matter and Decarcerate Memphis, started near the Shelby County Court House and the group marched along Adams Ave. before ending up at Poplar and Danny Thomas. The protesters chanted "Say his name. Trye" and "Justice for Tyre Nichols." The Memphis Police Department put out a tweet around 2 p.m. saying the lanes near and around Danny Thomas and Poplar were closed. MPD asked drivers to avoid the area and choose an alternate route. Memphis Police told the protestors they would clear the intersection around 8:30 p.m. The protestors held their ground into the night, with more than a dozen still in the intersection at 10 p.m. and a few dancing as officers looked on. Whos gonna handcuff us while were dancing? activist Paula Burress asked. The protests dispersed around 10:40 p.m. Saturday, with one protestor setting off a smoke canister after holding the intersection for more than nine hours. Protestors dispersed from the intersection of Poplar Avenue and Danny Thomas Boulevard around 10:40 p.m. on Feb. 4, 2023, after blocking the area for more than nine hours. The protestors, one of whom set off a smoke canister, were demanding Memphis Police make changes after the death of Tyre Nichols. The protesters have five demands: Pass the data-transparency act at the county and city levels; end pre-textual traffic stops; end unmarked cars and plainclothes officers; end task force and specialized units; and remove police from traffic enforcement. The protesters also paused for a three-minute moment of silence for Tyre Nichols. Pizza is being passed out at the noon Justice for Tyre protest as protesters shut down portions of Poplar by standing in the Poplar/Danny Thomas intersection. Were going to be here for a while organizers said. pic.twitter.com/4mst94AXjJ Gina Butkovich (@gigibutko) February 4, 2023 "We know right now we are not safe," activist Amber Sherman said. She and other protesters, including activist Hunter Demster, urged others to show up at the Memphis City Council and Shelby County Commission meetings this coming week. Story continues Thats whats going to keep us safe, taking tangible action is going to keep us safe, not giving more money to the police," Sherman said. Activist LJ Abraham encouraged protesters to settle in and invite friends to join them. Around 2:30 p.m., about 35 people remained in in the Poplar-Danny Thomas intersection, with blankets and hand warmers being passed around. Around 3:30 the number of protesters had dwindled to 25. Some protesters were kicking around a soccer ball, while others set up a fire pit. "I love you guys so much standing out here shutting it down, making their life difficult like they made ours every day," said Veda Sterling, the aunt of Alton Sterling, who was fatally shot in 2016 by two police officers in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. She was holding a sign that read "Justice for Tyre: Disband Special Units Now." The protests in Memphis coincided with a memorial service for Nichols in his native California. More than 100 people packed into a Sacramento skate shop to honor Nichols, who was an avid skateboarder. "He was the light we all needed when we were dark," Nichols' friend and fellow skateboarder Ryan Wilson said. Nearly five years after Sterling's shooting, the East Baton Rouge Metro Council approved a $4.5 million settlement for the family of Alton Sterling to settle a wrongful death suit. The family of Jaylin Keshawn McKenzie of Atlanta was also among the protesters. McKenzie, 20, was killed by Memphis police officers in December after officers chased him and three other men who authorities say were armed. They exited a vehicle and ran to the 4700 block of Cochese Road. MPD said McKenzie turned around and shot at officers, one of whom returned fire and fatally shot him. The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation is investigating the McKenzie shooting. Meanwhile, at least 50 people, many with skateboards and roller skates, gathered around 3 p.m. Saturday in front of the National Civil Rights Museum. This gathering is putting a spotlight on Nichols' love for skateboarding. The protesters, including newly elected State Rep. Justin J. Pearson, D-House District 86, is traveling to the I AM A MAN Plaza and plans to finish at Court Square Park. Around 4:45, about 15 skateboarders, arriving via Poplar Ave., joined the Justice for Tyre demonstrators who shut down Poplar and Danny Thomas. Their arrival prompted cheers and sign waving from the protesters. More skaters are arriving out front, skating down from Main Street. pic.twitter.com/4pzUvd31nY Lucas Finton (@LucasFinton) February 4, 2023 The death of Nichols remains under investigation by the FBI and has led to the firing, arrests and indictments of five former Memphis police officers. Those officers have been charged with second-degree murder, aggravated assault, two counts of aggravated kidnapping, two counts of official misconduct and one count of official oppression, court records show. A sixth Memphis police officer was fired Friday. Earlier this week, three employees with the Memphis Fire Department were terminated from the department related to Nichols' death. Commercial Appeal reporter Lucas Finton contributed to this report. Gina Butkovich covers DeSoto County, storytelling and general news. She can be reached at 901-232-6714 or on Twitter @gigibutko. This article originally appeared on Memphis Commercial Appeal: Tyre Nichols death: Protesters shut down traffic in Memphis BEIRUT (AP) Most wealthy Gulf Arab nations followed Saudi Arabias lead in recent years and ostracized crisis-hit Lebanon because of the growing influence of the Iranian-backed militant group Hezbollah. The exception was Qatar. Doha has been silently expanding its influence in Lebanon. It continued receiving Lebanese leaders and pumped tens millions of dollars into helping the countrys armed forces amid a historic economic meltdown. The small, gas-rich nation in late January began seeing the fruits of its investment, when state-owned Qatar Energy replaced a Russian firm in an international consortium that will search for gas in the Mediterranean Sea off Lebanons coast. And on Monday, Qatar will for the first time join a meeting in Paris along with officials from France, Saudi Arabia and the U.S. for discussions focusing on Lebanons political and economic crises. Qatar portrays itself as a more neutral force in a country where for decades outside powers have used Lebanons sectarian divisions to fight their proxy battles. Saudi Arabia long backed Lebanons Sunni Muslim factions and tried to push out Irans influence through Shiite Hezbollah. The rivalry repeatedly pushed Lebanon to the brink of armed conflict. Qatar, which has good ties with Iran, has been trying to advance negotiations between Tehran and Gulf nations. Its inclusion in the upcoming talks is a signal that Iran will not be completely left out of that meeting and a recognition of the influence that Tehran has over Lebanon, said Mohamad Bazzi, a professor and director of the Hagop Kevorkian Center for Near Eastern Studies at New York University. With Saudi Arabia and other Gulf states less heavily involved in Lebanon, Qatar is trying to revive its mediator role in the country, he said. Still, Qatar one of the richest countries in the world with its natural gas wealth so far has shown little sign of being willing to bail out Lebanon on its own, Bazzi said. Story continues Since late 2019, Lebanons economy has collapsed under the weight of widespread corruption and mismanagement. The currency has lost more than 90% of its value, throwing most of the population into poverty. International donors, including Qatar, have been demanding the government implement reforms to release some $11 billion in loans and grants. But Lebanons politicians have resisted because reforms would weaken their grip in the country. Qatars involvement in Lebanon is not new. After the 34-day war between Israel and Hezbollah in 2006, Qatar helped rebuild several towns and villages that suffered major destruction in southern Lebanon. Giant billboards with signs reading Thank You Qatar popped up around Lebanon. In May 2008, after Hezbollah and its allies battled their Western-backed rivals in Beiruts worst fighting since the 1975-90 civil war, Lebanese political leaders flew to Qatar, where they reached a deal known as the Doha Agreement. The deal ended an 18-month deadlock and brought the election of a new president and formation of a new government. In the calm that followed, massive foreign investment flowed in, and Lebanons economy grew at an average of 9% for three years. In December 2018, then-President Michel Aoun inaugurated the newly rehabilitated Lebanese National Library in Beirut, funded by Qatar at a cost of $25 million. The current emirs mother, Sheikha Moza bint Nasser al-Missned, had laid the foundation stone for the project in the heart of Beirut in 2009. Saudi Arabia pulled back from Lebanon in recent years as Hezbollahs power grew. Last year, the main Saudi ally in Lebanon, former Prime Minister Saad Hariri, a dual Lebanese-Saudi citizen, announced he is suspending his work in politics. In 2020, Riyadh banned imports of Lebanese products after a Lebanese official derided the Saudi-led military intervention in Yemen. Several other Gulf countries followed suit, but Qatar did not. Qatar doubled down on its investment as Lebanons economy melted down. Qatari investors bought the famous Beirut Le Vendome hotel overlooking the Mediterranean in 2020. There are reports that Doha plans to pump money into Lebanons struggling banking sector to buy one of the countrys lenders. In June, Qatar donated $60 million to support the salaries of members of the Lebanese army. It was already supporting the army with monthly supplies of food. Strengthening Lebanons military has long been a policy of the United States, which sees the force as a counterbalance to Hezbollah. A week ago, three months after Lebanon and Israel signed a U.S.-mediated maritime border agreement, Qatari Energy Minister Saad Sherida al-Kaabi joined Lebanese officials in Beirut for a ceremony inking an agreement for Qatar to take a 30% share in a consortium for oil and gas exploration in Lebanese waters. For us in Qatar, this important agreement gives us an opportunity to support economic developments in Lebanon during this critical turn, al-Kaabi said at the event. Qatar is always present to support a better future for Lebanon and its people. According to the agreement, Qatar Energy will take over the 20% stake vacated by Russias Novatek in addition to 5% each from Italys giant ENI and Frances TotalEnergies leaving the Arab company with a stake of 30%. Total and ENI will have 35% stakes each. This is a win-win situation for Lebanon and Qatar, said Lebanons former energy minister, Cesar Abi Khalil. Qatar gets a stake in the possible gas resources in Lebanese waters, while Lebanon gets the credibility of a Qatari company in the project. In the political field, Qatar has not openly backed any party. But it reportedly supports the Lebanese Army commander, Gen. Joseph Aoun, to become the countrys next president. Aoun, who is not related to the outgoing president, was invited to visit Qatar in December and met with high-level officials. Hezbollah is believed to oppose him. As it often does, Qatar is advancing its economic and political interests together, said Lebanese economist Antoine Farah. It is ensuring income from its investments while gaining a political role in the country where it invests. But Ali Hamade, a journalist with the Lebanese daily An-Nahar, said Qatar, like other Gulf nations, will want to see Lebanons political leaders enact serious reforms. Lebanon should help itself in order for Arabs to help Lebanon. Lebanese politicians cannot sit and wait for money to rain from the sky, Hamade said. According to the founders, the idea for Plufl was born out of a desire to make napping even cozier. Plufl Plufl was invented by two recent college graduates who love napping. Since going viral on social media, the company has generated over $1 million in revenue, according to ABC7. The duo responsible for Plufl appeared on "Shark Tank" in October 2022. Less than a year after graduating college, two entrepreneurs are finding success in taking napping to the next level. Noah Silverman and Yuki Kinoshita, both 22, created what they call the world's first "human dog bed" just one month before graduating from the University of British Columbia in May 2022, according to ABC7. Now their company, Plufl, has reportedly generated over $1 million in revenue thanks largely to social media. Videos on Plufl's official TikTok account have garnered several million views and comments from users who are intrigued by the human-sized dog bed. The duo told ABC the idea for their giant portable bed was born out of jealousy after witnessing a napping Great Dane in its large bed. "I would always get so jealous of how cozy and relaxed it looked while I was working," Silverman said While some nappers appreciated the idea of finally being able to sleep comfortably in the dog bed-like Plufl, others were turned off by the $499 price. "400 dollars? I'll just get an actual dog bed," one user wrote. "My queen mattress was cheaper. $500 is a bit much," another comment read. Plufl met the skepticism with their reasons for the pricing, noting the product is more than just a large dog bed. According to the official website, Plufl features "supportive orthopaedic and gel infused memory foam," pillow bolsters along the edges for coziness, and handles to aid with transportation. Plus, the creators said, it can comfortably fit a six-foot-one adult man. Amid the online success, Silverman and Kinoshita appeared on "Shark Tank" in October 2022 where they secured a $200,000 deal from Mark Cuban and Lori Greiner. The first Plufl customers received their orders in December, according to the ABC7 report. Read the original article on Business Insider West Hartford leaders will soon be deciding how to redesign parts of Farmington Avenue and LaSalle Road, but the biggest change coming up could be the busy intersection at the heart of the town center. In a presentation to residents this week, consultants showed two tentative versions of what South Main and Farmington would look like as a roundabout. A third showed the chronically congested intersection as a more traditional design but with fewer north-south lanes. Community Development Director Duane Martin has emphasized that unlike the LaSalle and Farmington redesigns, the South Main and Farmington crossing is not an imminent project. Consultants are recommending West Hartford resume two-way traffic on LaSalle Road, but with narrower lanes and wider sidewalks. For the near-term future, the Stantec consulting firm is recommending West Hartford restore two-way traffic on LaSalle but with narrow lanes and traditional parallel parking spaces instead of the current angled parking. Sidewalks would be widened, but design maps show no bike lanes. Town officials are expected to decide later this winter how to proceed, and its possible the traffic pattern could be shifted as soon as the spring. Construction to put in wider sidewalks, benches and other amenities is expected in 2024. But before then, the town government would talk with residents on nearby streets like Arapahoe Road and Ellsworth Road to assess whether restoring two-way traffic on LaSalle was creating extra traffic there. A consultant is recommending West Hartford narrow the vehicle space on Farmington Avenue in the town center while adding bike lanes, wider sidewalks, benches, trees and other amenities Stantec is also recommending redesigning Farmington Avenue between LaSalle and the South Main Street intersection. It would get bike lanes as well as wider sidewalks and pedestrian amenities. Construction for that job is more likely in 2025. The costlier and larger-scale project would be the Farmington Avenue and South Main Street intersection. Town officials are looking to make it safer and more efficient but dont envision choosing designs this year or starting construction before 2026 or so. These are strictly conceptual ideas, Jason Schrieber, a planner with the Stantec consulting firm, said as he showed the images of redesign options to the audience at town hall. This location keeps coming up. Its where you have the worst crashes, its where you have the longest crosswalks, Schrieber told residents. It really should be a better place, it should be a gateway. Virtually all solutions would require narrowing or eliminating vehicle lanes or parking lanes, according to the consultant. One option for redesigning the intersection of Farmington Avenue and South Main Street in West Hartford is to put in a traditional roundabout. One option would be to create a traditional roundabout, and another is to build one with the the east side extended so far back on Farmington that the new design is almost peanut-shaped. South Main would be narrowed, and a stretch of the roadway to the north North Main Street would be rebuilt as a boulevard to break up the traffic flow. Another possibility is keeping the standard intersection format but with fewer lanes so that traffic flow would be less confusing and pedestrians could cross more quickly. Consultants say one option for rebuilding Farmington Avenue at South Main Street in West Hartford is to retain the traditional intersection, but narrow traffic flow. That plan would use fewer and narrower lanes to ease the traffic flow and protect pedestrians. (Reuters) - The United States and Russia faced off on Saturday over a World Health Organization report on the humanitarian crisis in Ukraine, with Moscow saying it was politically motivated and Washington calling for it to be swiftly updated. WHO Director General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus's report was presented to the organisation's executive board, on which both Russia and the United States sit. It covered events in the first nine months of 2022 and classed the situation in Ukraine, which Russia invaded on Feb. 24, as one of eight acute global health emergencies. The report documented more than 14,000 civilian casualties, with 17.7 million people in need of humanitarian assistance and 7.5 million Ukrainian refugees displaced across Europe. Of 471 attacks with heavy weapons on healthcare facilities globally, 448 occurred in Ukraine, the WHO report said. Russia's representative to the WHO board called it politicised and one-sided and described its references to Ukraine as unfounded accusations. Moscow has denied targeting civilians in Ukraine since it began what it calls a special military operation, which has also devastated Ukraine's cities, killed thousands of combatants and shaken the global economy. Sheba Crocker, U.S. representative to the United Nations, called for an updated report to document incidents in Ukraine since September. "Russia's attacks ... have caused unspeakable harm to civilians and critical infrastructure in Ukraine," she told the board meeting, according to a statement from her office. "...This senseless death and destruction falls brutally on children, the elderly, and other vulnerable groups' access to vital health care," Crocker added. (Reporting by John Stonestreet; Additional reporting by Gabrielle Tetrault-Farber; Editing by Alexander Smith) WEST PALM BEACH A Riviera Beach man has received an eight-year prison sentence after pleading guilty to a charge of aggravated child abuse in the 2018 death of a toddler in West Palm Beach. At the time of his arrest in 2019, West Palm Beach police investigators alleged that Octavious Wiggins beat Jeremiah Malachi Bradshaw, his girlfriend's 23-month-old son, with a belt on Nov. 1, 2018, causing injuries that resulted in the child's death a little over three weeks later. Wiggins, now 32, entered the plea during a Jan. 30 hearing before Circuit Judge Caroline Shepherd at the Palm Beach County Courthouse in West Palm Beach. The Palm Beach County State Attorney's Office dropped a second charge of aggravated manslaughter of a child. Jeremiah Malachi Bradshaw [Family photo] 'Funny, caring, loving':Police seek shooter in death of Willis Williams, lead cook at McCray's BBQ 'American Pain':Former Wellington pill mill kingpins Chris, Jeff George subjects of CNN documentary Health care fraud:West Palm-area nursing school one of three targeted in fake diploma probe An older child told police Wiggins spanked Jeremiah after the toddler fell in the road. Stephanie Robinson, Jeremiah's mother, told investigators she left the toddler under Wiggins' care for about 30 minutes and found the child in distress upon her return. Robinson said Wiggins told her he spanked the child with a belt and "blacked out" while administering the punishment. Robinson was later arrested on a child-neglect charge, with police alleging that she failed to maintain a safe environment for her son. She has pleaded not guilty and is awaiting trial. Investigators said Robinson ignored a restraining order prohibiting Wiggins from having contact with the child. Robinson and the Florida Department of Children and Families had filed the restraining order after Jeremiah had suffered a broken arm in June 2018. Robinson told investigators at the time she suspected Wiggins was responsible for the injury. However, while reporting the November 2018 incident, Robinson initially told investigators her son was injured during a fall at the park, police said. Story continues During Monday's sentencing hearing, Shepherd ordered that Wiggins' prison term be followed by five years of probation. She credited Wiggins with a year of time served in jail. Julius Whigham II is a criminal justice and public safety reporter for The Palm Beach Post. You can reach him atjwhigham@pbpost.com and follow him on Twitter at@JuliusWhigham. Help support our work:Subscribe today. This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Man pleads guilty to 2018 beating death of Jeremiah Malachi Bradshaw Here's a roundup of recent incidents and announcements from Ventura County agencies: Police truck, motorcyclist collide A motorcyclist was hospitalized after an accident involving an Oxnard police pickup truck on Thursday afternoon. The Oxnard Police Department said the crash happened at 3:07 p.m. at the intersection of East Fifth Street and Buena Vista Avenue. The crossing is a T-intersection where Buena Vista extends south of Fifth. According to Cpl. Andrew Pinkstaff, the northbound pickup truck was stopped at a stop sign on Buena Vista, waiting to turn left onto Fifth Street. A private bus had stopped on eastbound Fifth Street to let the pickup through, although there are no stop signs on Fifth at the crossing. As the police vehicle was turning left, a motorcyclist traveling westbound on Fifth hit the front right bumper of the truck. The truck then swerved left and collided with the bus, Pinkstaff said. The motorcyclist was thrown from his bike and suffered moderate injuries, according to police. He was transported to a local hospital where he was said to be in stable condition. Two Oxnard police officers suffered minor injuries and declined transport. No injuries were reported by bus passengers. The crash closed Fifth Street between Rice and Rose avenues for hours Thursday afternoon for the police agency's investigation. Officers arrest smash-and-grab suspect months after crime This was the aftermath of an October smash-and-grab burglary at Race Prep Hobbies in Simi Valley. The Simi Valley Police Department arrested a Long Beach man last month in connection with a smash-and-grab burglary in October, authorities said Friday. The burglary was reported on Oct. 23 at Race Prep Hobbies, 1782 E. Los Angeles Ave. The suspect allegedly stole $7,500 worth of merchandise and caused approximately $1,700 worth of damage, according to authorities. A photo released by police shows a door with smashed glass, with a large rock visible inside next to a display area. Police investigators identified the suspect as a 58-year-old Long Beach man. On Jan. 24, detectives arrested him in Long Beach on suspicion of felony burglary and booked him into Ventura County jail, according to online jail records. Story continues Mountain lion tranquilized near home State officials tranquilized a mountain lion after it was spotted in front of a home in Ojai Friday morning. The lion was ultimately put down. Authorities were contacted about the animal at 7:16 a.m. in the 300 block of Park Road. The resident said the mountain lion was not moving and appeared to be sick or injured. Ventura County Sheriff's deputies notified the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. At 10:45 a.m., authorities had reportedly tranquilized the mountain lion. They planned to transport it to another location to evaluate its health and determine the next steps, according to Ojai officials. A state wildlife official later said the lion, a female about 10 years old, was euthanized. The animal, which was not collared, was in poor condition, nearly blind and extremely underweight. Another mountain lion in the region was found dead on Jan. 22 on Pacific Coast Highway near Las Posas Road. The collared lion known as P-81 was likely struck by a vehicle, authorities said. Police make burglary, vandalism arrest A 43-year-old Santa Paula man was arrested after a suspected burglary in Ventura Thursday night Ventura Police Department officials were contacted at 6:45 p.m. regarding the 9300 block of Halifax Street on the east side of the city. Witnesses said a man was knocking on doors of homes in the area. By the time police arrived, bystanders said they saw the suspect enter the side yard of a house. The homeowner later called police to report seeing the man inside their home via the security system. A K-9 police dog was deployed to detain the man after he left the home. Further investigation found he reportedly entered the house through an unlocked side door and damaged the inside while taking property, according to police. The suspect was arrested on suspicion of felony vandalism and residential burglary and booked into county jail with bail set at $60,000, according to online jail records. Items may be updated. Jeremy Childs is a general assignment reporter covering courts, crime and breaking news for the Ventura County Star. He can be reached at 805-437-0208, jeremy.childs@vcstar.com, and on Twitter @Jeremy_Childs. This article originally appeared on Ventura County Star: Oxnard police truck crash, Simi Valley smash-and-grab arrest, more The Russian Federation added the occupied territories to the Southern Military District The department states that on Feb. 3, the Russian TASS propaganda agency reported that the Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhzhya and Kherson oblasts have been placed under the three-star command with headquarters in Rostov-on-Don. Read also: Russia not yet geared up enough for new offensive in Zaporizhzhya Oblast This follows Defense Minister Sergei Shoigus January announcement that military expansion would include the establishment of self-sufficient force groupings in Ukraine, the intelligence agency said. Read also: Mobilized Russian soldiers sent to frontline without food, equipment, says Luhansk governor The agency stressed that the move highlights that the Russian military likely aspires to integrate newly occupied territory into a long-term strategic posture. However, it is unlikely to have an immediate impact on the campaign Russia currently deploys forces from across all of Russias military districts, commanded by an ad hoc deployed headquarters, the report said. Russia has lost about half of the Ukrainian territory it seized at the beginning of its full-scale war and invasion, which started on Feb. 24. Before that, it had already occupied parts of Luhansk and Donetks oblasts and Ukraines Crimean peninsula in 2014. Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine The Russians continue to transfer troops to Mariupol He said about 15,000 Russian soldiers were relocated to the region in the past week alone. "In general, we can talk about 30,000 Russian troops located in Mariupol and nearby, Andriushchenko said. He added that the invaders had informed the locals about their "plans to launch offensives in the directions of Zaporizhzhya and Vuhledar. Read also: Russia moving Buk anti-air systems through Mariupol, official says "The final touch is the arrival of Kadyrovtsy's unit (Chechnya's paramilitary organisation) in the amount of 2,000 or 3,000 in a coastal village, Andriushchenko said. They could be a blocking unit for a potential assault as no major Russian Guard's operations are foreseen either in Mariupol or the district." On Feb. 1, a convoy of Russian invasion force trucks headed into the directions of Manhush and Berdyansk, to the west of Mariupol. Read also: 50 Ukrainian defenders freed from Russian captivity, some captured in Mariupol, Chornobyl NPP Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine Black Sea Presumably, the enemy is gathering information in preparation for another attack on Ukraine, she said. Read also: Russia prepares new attack with Iranian-made drones The adversary is collecting maximum information, and has activated unmanned reconnaissance vehicles, which we are quite effectively shooting down, Humeniuk said. But we see that more and more of them are appearing from the waters of the Black Sea, they are aimed at Mykolaiv and Odesa oblasts. The Russians gravitate to certain dates, and February is a symbolic month for the occupiers, which means they may be preparing a new strike, the spokesperson added. Read also: Russia declares indefinite regime of terrorist alert in border oblast of Belgorod Todays air raid alarm, which was all over the territory of Ukraine due to the take-off, in particular, of reconnaissance aircraft, is a confirmation of that. Information is being collected, preparations are being made, Humeniuk added. Meanwhile, due to a storm on the Black Sea, the Russian naval group has returned to base, and there are no missile launchers now deployed there. On Feb. 3, the Navy of the Ukrainian Armed Forces reported about nine enemy ships on combat duty in the Black Sea. The Russians also kept one vessel in the Sea of Azov, and 10 in the Mediterranean. Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine (Reuters) - Former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev has said the supply of more advanced U.S. weaponry to Ukraine will only trigger more retaliatory strikes from Russia, up to the extent of Russia's nuclear doctrine. "All of Ukraine that remains under Kyiv's rule will burn," journalist Nadana Fridrikhson quoted him as saying in a written interview with her. Fridrikhson asked Medvedev, who as deputy chairman of the Security Council has become one of Russia's most hawkish pro-war figures since its invasion of Ukraine, whether the use of longer-range weapons might force Russia to negotiate with Kyiv. "The result will be just the opposite," Medvedev replied, in comments that Fridrikhson posted on her Telegram channel. "Only moral freaks, of which there are enough both in the White House and in the Capitol, can argue like that." The Pentagon said on Friday that a new rocket that would double Ukraine's strike range was included in a $2.175 billion U.S. military aid package. With the first anniversary of the invasion approaching on Feb. 24, Russian forces have been on the back foot for the last eight months, and do not fully control any of the four Ukrainian provinces that Moscow has unilaterally declared part of Russia. President Vladimir Putin casts Russia's campaign in Ukraine as an existential defence against an aggressive West and has, like Medvedev, several times brandished the threat of a nuclear response, saying Russia will use all available means to protect itself and its people. Asked what would happen if the weapons that Washington has promised Ukraine were to strike Crimea - which Russia seized from Ukraine in 2014 - or deep into Russia, Medvedev said Putin had addressed the matter clearly. "We don't set ourselves any limits and, depending on the nature of the threats, we're ready to use all types of weapons. In accordance with our doctrinal documents, including the Fundamentals of Nuclear Deterrence," he said. "I can assure you that the answer will be quick, tough and convincing." Russia's nuclear doctrine allows for a nuclear strike after "aggression against the Russian Federation with conventional weapons when the very existence of the state is threatened". (Writing by Kevin Liffey; Editing by Frances Kerry) Sen. Julie Daniels Bartlesville area state lawmakers Sen. Julie Daniels, R-Bartlesville, and Rep. Judd Strom, R-Copan, are preparing for a battle at the state Capitol over whether public school funding should be tapped to pay for private school tuition. School choice, also known as school vouchers, is expected to gain traction in the state Legislature this session, particularly since both Gov. Kevin Stitt and State Superintendent Ryan Walters have made it a priority. The school choice concept is sweeping the nation. Bills have been signed into law in Iowa and Arizona recently, and many other states' legislators are debating similar legislation. Last month, Daniels introduced a bill that would allow parents to use a portion of the state per-pupil spending for private school tuition. It would also allow parents to use the funding for fees, uniforms, technological devices and instructional materials. Daniels envisions her bill, the Education Freedom Act, as a way to help kids in failing districts or that are being failed by their public schools. "You know it's time to empower Oklahoma parents to be able to choose the best education for their own children regardless of ZIP code or financial circumstances," said Daniels. Strom disagrees with Daniels and points to the Oklahoma Equal Opportunity Education Scholarships and the Open Transfer Law passed last year. Judd Strom, R-Copan "Oklahoma parents are already empowered to make that choice because every child is served by a public education system in the state of Oklahoma, and there isn't anything stopping parents from choosing other forms of education if they want it," said Strom. He calls Oklahoma's homeschool system the "freest and fairest" in the nation and provides parents with many alternatives. When asked if her bill had oversight or accountability in the quality of education that students would receive from private education service providers similar to that of public education, Daniels said, "The accountability in my program is to the parents." Story continues Daniels says her bill allows for "maximum freedom" and "maximum flexibility" for parents and education service providers for Strom, that is a problem. "With every agency in the state of Oklahoma that falls under the government purview, I think it is very important to be able to audit where every one of those tax dollars goes and exactly how those are spent and whether they're being spent effectively and efficiently," said Strom. Along with minimal oversight and control in how dollars are spent, most of Oklahoma's accredited private schools are religious in nature, such as Wesleyan Christian School in Bartlesville, Bishop Kelley High School in Tulsa and Oklahoma Islamic Academy in Edmond. For Daniels, that's no issue because she says public dollars will be given directly to parents through education savings accounts and parents can choose to spend the money on any accredited private school of their choice. "The bill specifically says we cannot meddle in the affairs of the doctrine of the curriculum of their schools," said Daniels. Daniels added that if the Office of the State Treasurer which will be charged with administering and distributing the funds attempts to impose any additional regulation or require alterations in creed, practices, admissions policy or curriculum of private schools, the agency's funding will be cut by 5%. Strom said he couldn't support the bill in its current state. "We have a constitutional duty at the state level to provide for a free and fair public education, and private schools are neither free and very often not fair," said Strom. Why not both? Daniels said she was tired of hearing that there can't be school choice without sacrificing public schools. She said her bill is the compromise needed. "This is recognizing that some children do not thrive in their public schools, and where there are parents who've identified this and want an alternative to try and achieve academic success for their child, it's time to give them that option," said Daniels. Daniels said she plans to allocate extra funding to the state Department of Education to pay for the school voucher program. The bill would allocate $275 million to the program. She said that number was determined by multiplying the number of students enrolled in a private school by roughly $5,000 a piece. Even by allocating enough funding to allow every child currently enrolled in private education, Daniels said she estimates only 500 to 1,000 students would take advantage of the program early on. "Well, we have a program, the Lindsay Nicole Henry (special needs program)... was adopted in 2010," said Daniels. "As of today, we have 1,245 students statewide. That's a very small number of special needs kids, and it's taken 10 years for that program to grow to have that many kids in it. So I anticipate this will be slow growth." Oklahoma lawmakers passed a law to launch the Oklahoma Equal Opportunity Education Scholarships in 2012 to allow students who meet income and zoning requirements to have a portion of their private school tuition paid. As of 2021, that program awarded more than 6,600 scholarships at a cost of $18.6 million, according to its annual report. Daniels said this bill isn't meant to attack public schools in any way. Yet the Oklahoma Council of Public Affairs supports the bill and calls for constituents to remind their legislators, "Woke indoctrination in schools isn't going to stop unless we give parents real educational choice." "It puts more pressure on the public schools because now there are more viable options for parents," said Daniels. "This is more government and it is tax dollars being spent without accountability," Strom argues. He has reason to demand accountability. Last summer, a U.S. Department of Education audit found $652,700 in federal pandemic funds were misspent in Oklahoma because the state failed to place proper guardrails on a program that provided $1,500 grants directly to families. Rather than spending the money on educational needs, some recipients of the program bought televisions, car stereo equipment, coffee makers, home decor and other items. That program was touted by Walters as a test run for a statewide school voucher program. In a joint investigation, Oklahoma Watch and The Frontier detailed Walters' involvement in getting a no-bid contract for Florida-based vendor ClassWallet to run that program. Earlier this week, Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond announced that he dismissed a lawsuit filed by his predecessor accusing ClassWallet of mishandling federal COVID relief dollars and that he instead will instead investigate Oklahomans responsible for the misspending of funds. "It is clear that a number of state actors and other individuals are ultimately responsible for millions in misspent federal relief dollars," said Drummond. Same words, different title At the same time as the release of Daniels' bill, state Senator Shane Jett filed another bill, the Oklahoma Parent Empowerment Act for Kids, which shares roughly 80% of the same language and essentially copies Senator Pro Tem Greg Treat's Oklahoma Empowerment Act that failed to pass the state Senate last year. The bills appear to be heavily influenced by model legislation called the Education Savings Account Act, which was posted by the American Legislative Exchange Council six years ago. Daniels is a member of ALEC's Board of Directors. ALEC is a nonprofit organization of conservative legislators and private sector representatives who draft and share model legislation with other states. The group has been accused of allowing corporate interests to have outsized influence in shaping model legislation, which becomes law in many states. A flurry of bills with language similar to ALEC's model legislation is being introduced in statehouses across the country, including one recently signed into law in Iowa. Daniels said those who helped craft her bill include "mommies and daddies of homeschoolers," the American Federation for Children, Americans for Prosperity, the Oklahoma Council for Public Affairs and other educational choice organizations. "There are other states doing similar initiatives like this. But we're definitely cutting-edge here to go universal school choice," she said. This article originally appeared on Bartlesville Examiner-Enterprise: School choice is on Oklahoma's legislative menu again, lawmakers say Editor's note: This story contains descriptions of violence against a child that readers might find disturbing. A Pueblo man is, for the second time, standing trial for murder in connection to the death of a foster child. Ramondo Jones, 38, is accused of killing 15-month-old Aiden Seeley in September 2020. He previously faced trial in October, which ended in a mistrial. Seeley had been placed in the Pueblo West home of Dacey Spinuzzi, Jones' girlfriend at the time. At the time of the child's placement, Jones had a no-bond warrant for assault, which included domestic violence, and a second no-bond warrant for criminal mischief and menacing. A medical examination and an autopsy following the child's death determined that he died from injuries sustained from child abuse. Through an extensive investigation, sheriffs detectives concluded the injuries occurred while Seeley was in Spinuzzis care. Spinuzzi pleaded guilty on Sept. 23, 2021 to accessory to a crime resulting in the death of the child in her care, a Class 4 felony, in a plea deal with the 10th Judicial District Attorney's Office. In exchange for her plea, a child abuse charge was dismissed. Spinuzzi said in court she lied to the Pueblo Police Department to protect Jones, despite knowing he had seriously hurt the toddler. Spinuzzi's sentencing is scheduled for Feb. 17, after the end of Jones' trial. Other foster children were removed from Spinuzzis care following Seeley's death and were placed in protective custody. Spinuzzi's biological child was placed in the care of relatives. In opening statements Friday, prosecutors described the graphic injuries sustained by Seeley, which they said literally covered the toddler from head to toe. More Pueblo crime news:Pueblo arrest affidavit claims 2-year-old's neglect death was 'definitely preventable' According to the prosecution, on the day of the child's death, Jones picked up Seeley by the ankles and dangled him upside down, screaming expletives at the child and telling him to "just shut up." The prosecution stated that was the last time Spinuzzi saw her foster child conscious. The next time she saw Seeley, he was unconscious on the ottoman with Jones sitting next to him. Story continues Jones, according to the prosecution, allegedly claimed he had "just tossed him down in the playroom," then told Spinuzzi she had "better fix it." Prosecutors allege he then left before firefighters arrived. Seeley was severely injured, including bleeding under his scalp, brain injuries, a fractured skull and other fractures, and many others, which the prosecution claimed were inconsistent with any accidental explanation and could only be the result of child abuse. While Seeley was under Jones' care, prosecutors allege he sustained a series of injuries, none of which were present prior to his placement in Spinuzzi's home. On Aug. 12, 2020, more than a month before Seeley's death, he was left in Jones' care and sustained bruising to the chin, a swollen lip, and marks around his neck. Jones explained to Spinuzzi, who was at work, that the child had fallen out of a swing at Spinuzzi's mother's house. Prosecutors said that explanation was not consistent with Seeley's injuries. From Aug. 27 through Sept. 6, the prosecution alleged Seeley suffered several other injuries in Jones' care, including facial swelling, a mouth injury and a painful injury to the child's toe. Two days after the toe injury, Spinuzzi told law enforcement she saw Jones squeeze the injured toe because he was angry at Seeley for making noise. On Sept. 16, prosecutors say, Spinuzzi returned from work to find injuries to another foster child's face and groin area, which Jones allegedly attributed to the child falling from a straddled position on a fence. The prosecution claimed those injuries also were not consistent with the explanation. Throughout these incidents, Spinuzzi initially lied to law enforcement and the Department of Human Services, coming up with stories to explain the injuries without implicating Jones. Following Seeley's death, Spinuzzi told law enforcement he had fallen from a bed after being pushed by his brother. "We don't know exactly what happened in that basement," an assistant district attorney said in court. "The evidence will show that it was not an accident, that it was violent, and it took a substantial amount of force, but it doesn't show exactly what happened." Pueblo's criminal justice system:Hung jury forces third mistrial in child sexual assault case involving former church leader An attorney representing Jones questioned the reliability of Spinuzzi's statements because she had initially lied to law enforcement. Jones' defense said Spinnuzi had a "lack of credibility" because part of her plea agreement stipulated she was required to testify against her former boyfriend. "I think that prosecution has rightly pointed out the numerous stories their primary witness has told," Jones' attorney said. "Story one, he fell off the bed; story two, (his brother) did it; story three, he fell down the stairs; story four, Ramondo tossed him down; story five, Ramondo went down with him and the next I saw, he was limp. "The big question is, what will story six be? I'll be interested to find out." The defense attorney asked the jury if there may be a reason why Spinuzzi's story might be getting progressively closer to the prosecution's ideal case, "especially if her plea agreement rests on it." In January 2022, Pueblo County commissioners reached a $6 million settlement with Seeley's family. The settlement, approved by the commissioners on Jan. 27, 2022, states that Pueblo County disputes Aiden's biological parents' claims against the county in relation to his death but agreed to settle out of court to avoid significantly higher litigation costs. All suspects are innocent until proven guilty in court. Arrests and charges are merely accusations by law enforcement until, and unless, a suspect is convicted of a crime. Questions, comments, or story tips? Contact Justin at jreutterma@gannett.com. Follow him on Twitter@jayreutter1. This article originally appeared on The Pueblo Chieftain: Pueblo man accused of killing foster child faces second trial Connecticut lawmakers are frustrated after the Army again rebuffed repeated requests for a briefing about how it decided against Sikorsky for its future long-range assault aircraft contract. Members of the states congressional delegation say they have received only vague answers about why the proposal from Texas-based Textron Inc.s Bell was selected over Lockheed Martins Sikorsky, based in Stratford, for a contract worth up to $7.1 billion. The new model will be the eventual replacement to Sikorskys Black Hawk helicopters. Lawmakers have made repeated attempts to get a more comprehensive briefing from the department about its criteria, but Army leadership has denied those requests because of the ongoing process of a formal challenge initiated by Sikorsky, which could take a few more months. This week, they said their requests were denied for a fourth time. We have heard in very vague terms about what the reasons may be, but theyve never been forthcoming publicly on the record, which they have an obligation to do, Sen. Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn., said Friday. These kinds of unofficial hints or vague descriptions of reasons that may be involved are simply no substitute for a public authoritative explanation for a profoundly consequential decision for our nations defense security, he added. The biggest open question for members like Blumenthal is over the price difference between the two bids. While they have only heard about cost estimates, they say Sikorskys Defiant-X is significantly more affordable than Bells V-280 Valor. And they argue getting an Army briefing could provide them with real numbers. Blumenthal said he was also told Sikorskys bid was essentially disqualified over a so-called technical issue, concerning equipment that may be added to the helicopter later in its life. In addition to the cost, lawmakers view the model as superior to Bells. Blumenthal said Defiant-X has better maneuverability and at least comparable range, while Sen. Chris Murphy, D-Conn., argues that Bells use of a tilt rotor is a very risky technology. He said Sikorskys version is a modernized product of what they used for years. My understanding is that there is a chasm between the cost of the Bell product and the cost of the Sikorsky product, Murphy said Friday. Its not uncommon for there to be a 5 to 10% cost difference. This cost difference was way bigger than the normal difference in bids. On its face, this decision doesnt make sense, so youre left trying to figure out why a company got a bid despite the fact there was another qualified bidder at a much, much lower price, Murphy said. The lawmakers argued that a briefing is critical to help clear up their questions and concerns over the price difference, the technology and any other criteria that was used to make the decision. But the Army maintains that it will not give them one until the resolution of the contract award protest. Murphy, however, pointed out that there is a history of Congress getting access to information during an open protest. He said that when Connecticuts Pratt & Whitney sought a contract for a refueling tanker years ago, the Air Force provided members with a briefing while the challenge was still happening. Plus, Murphy noted that there is a statute surrounding government procurements and acquisitions that allow them to conduct oversight. After losing the bid in December, Sikorsky filed a formal appeal to the Armys selection, a process that could take a few more months and could wrap up by early April. The U.S. Government Accountability Office, a watchdog agency for Congress, is currently reviewing Sikorskys challenge and has up to 100 days to make its non-binding decision. GAO can recommend whether to sustain, deny or dismiss Sikorskys protest. If the GAO sustains the protesters arguments, it will recommend that the agency involved in this case the Army addresses the violation. The Army can then decide whether to go along with the recommendation. Doug Bush, assistant secretary of the Army for acquisition, logistics and technology, responded to Murphys letter about a briefing on Monday that the Army is not engaging on the topic until GAO renders a decision, according to Army spokesperson Ellen Lovett. Connecticut lawmakers have had some contact with the Army since the decision in early December. But at the time, there were legal barriers to getting certain information before Sikorsky and Bell received their debriefings. The states entire congressional delegation then sent a letter last month to the Army secretary requesting a detailed briefing as soon as possible. But after several denials, Blumenthal said he has informally asked for a hearing before the Senate Armed Services Committee but noted that a decision is at the discretion of Chairman Jack Reed, D-R.I. Blumenthal said he was encouraged to try and get more information from the Army without the need for hearings. But he is exploring the need for either a standalone one on the bid or as part of a larger hearing on strategy. Connecticuts lawmakers have a vested interest in the success of Sikorsky, its workforce and suppliers, since it is based in their state and represents a significant part of its defense industry and economy. They said they believe public information about the helicopter contract is important for all American taxpayers to know, particularly if there is a major difference in affordability. Sikorskys headquarters are located in Stratford, which is in Rep. Rosa DeLauros 3rd District. DeLauro is the ranking member of the House Appropriations Committee, which is responsible for funding government agencies, including procurement of military aircraft. It is outrageous that members of Congress, despite repeated demands, have been continually denied information on how the Army made their decision on the FLRAA contract. Yet Congress will be expected to foot the bill at the end of the day, DeLauro said in a statement on Thursday. This is impacting labor and jobs right here in Stratford, Connecticut. The Connecticut Mirror/Connecticut Public Radio federal policy reporter position is made possible, in part, by funding from the Robert and Margaret Patricelli Family Foundation and Engage CT. Tempers flared in the second half at Old Trafford (Martin Rickett/PA). (PA Wire) Erik ten Hag hit out at the inconsistent implementation of VAR after Manchester United and Crystal Palace players clashed but only Casemiro was sent off for crossing the line. Bruno Fernandes early penalty and a Marcus Rashford strike put the Red Devils on course for a 13th successive home win in all competitions that they wrapped up after a nervy last 20 minutes. Jeffrey Schlupp shoved Antony off the pitch, sparking a fight involving both sets of players which ended with Casemiro receiving a straight red card for violent conduct. Referee Andre Marriner was advised to check the pitchside monitor by the VAR to review images of the Brazil international grabbing Will Hughes by the throat. But Ten Hag said Palace players should have been punished for their role in a melee that resulted in a frantic conclusion to the match, with Schlupp pulling one back only for United to run out 2-1 victors. We played a good game, the Dutchman said. I think we played a brilliant game. It was a really high level first 70 minutes until the incident takes place and then you see this team stands for each other. Its such a good spirit for the team and they dont accept when a player from us can be badly injured. That is the way Antony got treated. I see two teams where players, several players, are crossing the line and then one player is picked out and sent off. For me, that's not right Erik ten Hag This team sticks together, but of course you have to control your emotions, but its really difficult in such a moment. Then I see two teams fighting each other, I see two teams where players, several players, are crossing the line and then one player is picked out and sent off. For me, thats not right. Ten Hag said Schlupp took a big risk by shoving Antony off the pitch, saying he could have been badly injured. The United boss said Jordan Ayew should have definitely been sent off for his actions in the fight that followed, with the recent lack of VAR consistency infuriating him. Story continues You bring it up, but that was one of the players who did even worse, I would say, than Casemiro, Ten Hag said of Ayew. With Casemiro, you freeze the moment and hes crossing the line there, but I do definitely. You have to be consistent as a VAR. Last week we missed Christian Eriksen (who is out for three months) by a bad foul. No interference from VAR. In Crystal Palace (last month), (Jean-Phillipe) Mateta is elbowing (Lisandro) Martinez, he is running for two weeks with a mark on his eyebrow and (VARs) not interfering. I see this is not right. Ten Hag says United have to think about whether they appeal against Casemiros sending-off a straight red that means his next domestic match will be the Carabao Cup final on February 26. Crystal Palace counterpart Patrick Vieira was less forthcoming about his thoughts on the officiating. The France great stormed straight over to referee Marriner at full-time, but, asked what he said to the officials, he replied: I dont want to talk about it. Vieira said he was too far away to have a clear view on the incident that ended with Casemiros sending-off on an afternoon when Palace threatened to snatch another late draw against United. I think we showed character, the Palace boss said. Disappointed with the start, our first half. I think we defended well. We were quite well organised but when we managed to win the ball we did couldnt combine together. We lost the ball a little bit too quickly in the first half, and it was much better in the second half. The following convicted sex offenders recently registered to live in Pierce County. Each is categorized as a Level 3 sex offender those considered most likely to commit similar crimes. None is wanted by law enforcement officers at this time. All convicted sex offenders registered to live in Tacoma and Pierce County are listed on the Pierce County Sheriffs Departments website at piercesheriff.org. Roger Petty Age: 40. Description: 5-foot-9 and 190 pounds, with blond hair and blue eyes. Registered address: 1400 block of Puyallup Avenue, Tacoma. Criminal history: Convicted in 2012 of sexual exploitation of a minor and second-degree assault in Boone County, Arkansas, for sexually assaulting a 12-year-old boy and recording the abuse on his cell phone. Convicted in 2019 of third-degree child molestation in Pierce County for sexually assaulting a girl from age 10 to 11. Sex offender treatment: Petty has participated in a sex offender treatment program. For more information: Call detective Christie Yglesias at 253-591-5869 or Nicole Faivre at 253-591-5476. Jason W. Ridley Age: 47. Description: 5-foot-4 and 170 pounds, with brown hair and hazel eyes. Registered address: 1200 block of East 30th Street, Tacoma. Criminal history: Convicted in 1988 of indecent liberties in Mason County for sexually assaulting a 4-year-old boy. Convicted in 1998 of fourth-degree assault with sexual motivation in Mason County for sexually assaulting a woman. Convicted in 2003 of second-degree attempted rape in Mason County for sexually assaulting a 23-year-old woman. Sex offender treatment: Ridley has participated in a sex offender treatment program. For more information: Call detective Christie Yglesias at 253-591-5869 or Nicole Faivre at 253-591-5476. Jeffrey L. Wilson Age: 69. Description: 5-foot-9 and 160 pounds, with brown hair and brown eyes. Registered address: 1200 block of South 11th Street, Tacoma. Criminal history: Convicted in 1994 of communication with a minor for immoral purposes in Pierce County for sexually assaulting two girls who were playing in their backyard. Convicted in 1981 and 1986 of indecent liberties, both times for sexually assaulting a girl. Story continues Sex offender treatment: Wilson has participated in a sex offender treatment program. For more information: Call detective Christie Yglesias at 253-591-5869 or Nicole Faivre at 253-591-5476. John E. Kurtz Age: 35. Description: 5-foot-7 and 145 pounds, with blond hair and blue eyes. Registered address: 7000 block of A Street, Tacoma. Criminal history: Convicted in 2005 of first-degree rape of a child and second-degree rape of a child in Pierce County for sexually assaulting two boys, ages 11-12 and 7-8, on numerous occasions. Kurtz allegedly threatened to harm the victims if they told someone about the abuse or didnt cooperate. Sex offender treatment: Kurtz participated in a sex offender treatment program while incarcerated but was suspended due to his poor behavior and resistance to treatment. For more information: Call detective Douglas Fuller at 253-591-5989 or Christie Yglesias at 253-591-5869 Robert L. Marsh Age: 51. Description: 5-foot-8 and 200 pounds, with blond hair and blue eyes. Registered address: 6400 block of Homestead Avenue, Tacoma. Criminal history: Convicted in 1990 of attempted indecent liberties in Pierce County for sexually assaulting a woman. Convicted in 1995 of third-degree rape in Pierce County for sexually assaulting a woman described as physically challenged. Sex offender treatment: Records do not state whether Marsh has participated in a sex offender treatment program. For more information: Call detective Christie Yglesias at 253-591-5869 Winston Motley Age: 58. Description: 5-foot-7 and 180 pounds, with black hair and brown eyes. Registered address: 600 block of South 40th Street, Tacoma. Criminal history: Convicted in 1988 of second-degree rape in King County for sexually assaulting a 15-year-old girl at gunpoint. Convicted in 2001 of voyeurism in King County for following a coworker into the bathroom and watching her use the facilities. Convicted in 2003 of communication with a minor for immoral purposes in King County for sexually assaulting a 14-year-old girl. Sex offender treatment: Motley has participated in a sex offender treatment program. For more information: Call detective Christie Yglesias at 253-591-5869 Photo: AP/Getty/Gizmodo (Getty Images) Late Thursday night, a giant, mysterious balloon floated over the United States, apparently by way of the Pacific Ocean all the way to sensitive air space in Montana. On Friday, the Chinese government said the floating thing was not a spy balloonhonestly, fair, because the Pentagon said such an aircraft would have little intelligence gathering valuebut rather a civilian airship meant for meteorological research that had gone way, way, way, incredibly off course. Read more The Chinese side regrets the unintended entry of the airship into U.S. airspace due to force majeure, the countrys foreign ministry said in a statement. President Joe Biden elected not to shoot it down, ostensibly out of concern for civilians on the ground in its path. Canada said it was investigating a potential second incident. Everyone in the nations capital was up in arms. Click through to see how they freaked out. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken European Union flag, Apple logo Atony Blinken, Joe Bidens Secretary of State, was scheduled to travel to Beijing on Friday. Amid the hubbub over the not-a-spy-balloon, he canned that trip. Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene Look at what Joe Biden did to the sky! The not-a-spy-balloon incensed Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene. Her Twitter feed was frothing with rage Friday afternoon at Joe Biden, China, and the sky. She tweeted, Biden should shoot down the Chinese spy balloon immediately. President Trump would have never tolerated this. President Trump would have never tolerated many things happening to America. Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (again) Screenshot: Gizmodo/Blake Montgomery Greene was so enraged by the balloon, she made a meme out of it. The Georgia Republican photoshopped an imagined Valentine to Rep. Eric Swalwell, a California Democrat, from Fang Fang, which is not a racist fake Chinese name that she made up, as unlikely as that might seem. Fang Fang, who also went by Christine Fang, is a suspected Chinese intelligence operative who targeted American politicians, including Swalwell. Story continues The Pentagon Photo: Alex Wong (Getty Images) The Department of Defense rejected Chinas explanation that the balloon was meant for innocent research purposes. In a statement, a DoD official told CNN, We are confident that this high-altitude surveillance balloon belongs to the [Peoples Republic of China]. Instances of this activity have been observed over the past several years, including prior to this administration. The official said the military was taking steps nevertheless to protect against foreign intelligence collection of sensitive information. We are also tracking what abilities it could have in gaining insights, and continue to monitor the balloon as it was over the continental United States. Sen. Marsha Blackburn Photo: Drew Angerer (Getty Images) Blackburn, like Greene, was mad. So mad. So mad she wanted to dismantle Chinas ruling party. She tweeted, Why wont Biden shoot down the Chinese spy balloon that is currently flying over the United States? The Chinese Communist Party is a threat to our existence. Sen. Josh Hawley Photo: Kevin Dietsch (Getty Images) Missouri Republican Senator Josh Hawley, notorious for raising his fist in support of Jan. 6 insurrectionists, demanded that the Department of Homeland Security investigate Bidens response (read: decision not to shoot down) the not-a-spy-balloon. Why did he do this so hastily? Perhaps because he believes Biden behaved negligently. Perhaps to get coverage in Fox News. Marjorie Taylor Greene (third times the charm) Photo: Kevin Dietsch (Getty Images) The QAnon queen was not one to pass up an semi-identified flying object (Greene has disavowed her past support for the QAnon conspiracy theory.) In a third breathless tweet about the not-a-spy-balloon, she wrote, Under Biden: Pentagon tracks Chinese Spy Balloon for days over US & does NOT shoot it down. Abandons Americans & $85 billion in US military equipment & arms in Afghanistan. Wont secure our border- 5+ million people invade. The Biden admin is impotent. Rep. Jim Jordan Photo: Drew Angerer (Getty Images) The Ohio Republican jumped on the bandwagon with a tweet that read like the greatest hits of 2023 Republican foreign policy. The spy balloon was emblematic of everything else wrong with the Biden White House. Communist China: -Steals our intellectual property -Hurts American manufacturing -Supplies our enemies -Distracts Americans on TikTok -Flies a spy balloon over our country And whats Joe Biden doing about it? Nothing. Donald J. Trump Photo: Scott Eisen (Getty Images) The former president was succinct on Truth Social: SHOOT DOWN THE BALLOON. More from Gizmodo Sign up for Gizmodo's Newsletter. For the latest news, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Click here to read the full article. Three family members were found dead inside this Avondale home at 3657 Canyon Drive early Friday morning, Cincinnati police said. Authorities have described it as an apparent double homicide and a suicide. A 19-year-old man is believed to have been the triggerman in a double homicide and a suicide in Avondale on Friday. The Hamilton County Coroner's Office said Monday that the death of Eric Johnson Jr. was an apparent suicide and that the deaths of his mother and brother - 38-year-old Darlene Flores and 16-year-old Rodrigo Johnson - were apparent homicides. The family has been struck with tragedy twice in less than a year. An earlier shooting in Mount Healthy claimed the lives of a father and a daughter. Cincinnati police found Flores and the Johnson brothers dead at about 5:30 a.m. Friday after officers were called to their Avondale home in the 3600 block of Canyon Drive on a report of a person who was possibly deceased, police said. When police reached the scene, they found the mother and two sons unresponsive and each had suffered a gunshot wound. Cincinnati Fire Department personnel, who also responded to the scene, determined all three to be dead. More: Police: Teen who killed mother and brother had killed before in 2020 Police: Father shoots daughter, himself during SWAT standoff Less than six months before the shooting in Avondale, Eric Johnson Sr., 40, shot and killed his 6-year-old daughter, Iyla Johnson, before turning the gun on himself, according to the Mount Healthy Police Department. Mount Healthy officers were dispatched to the Lake of the Woods Apartments on Aug. 21 for a dispute involving a custody exchange, according to the department. As officers entered the apartment, they heard a gunshot from a second-floor bedroom but were unable to get inside because the room was barricaded from within, police said. Police said additional shots were fired as officers attempted to force entry. The officers then called for a Hamilton County SWAT team. The SWAT team broke into the bedroom after attempts to communicate with Johnson Sr. were unsuccessful, police said. Once inside, they found him and his 6-year-old daughter dead of gunshot wounds. Story continues Iyla's obituary lists Flores as her mother and Johnson Jr. and Rodrigo Johnson as her siblings. Police have not said whether there is a connection between these shootings. The Enquirer has requested documents from the police departments in Cincinnati and Mount Healthy. 'It's hard to process' Timyone Andrew and Beamer Walker, both 18, said they played football with Johnson Jr. at Roger Bacon High School. The pair described the Johnsons' and Flores' house as a second home. "We spent Christmas together, we'd have matching outfits, we took family pictures together, like, this was really like a second family," Andrew said while standing across from Canyon Drive as a police cruiser blocked off access to the street. "It's like not being allowed in your home." Three family members were found dead inside this Avondale home at 3657 Canyon Drive early Friday morning, Cincinnati police said. Authorities have described it as an apparent double homicide and a suicide. Andrew and Walker said Iyla's death was extremely difficult on her family. "When I pull up here, I'm ready to see my boy. I expect to see my boy," Andrew said of Johnson Jr. "Now that I can't, it's hard to process." Johnson Jr.'s friends say he graduated from Roger Bacon last year. Rodrigo Johnson was on the varsity football team at Purcell Marian Catholic High School, school officials confirmed. The school's roster shows he was a junior and played wide receiver and defensive back. As a result of his death, the high school canceled all athletic events over the weekend. All athletic events this weekend have been canceled. pic.twitter.com/5ISngZFeT5 Purcell Marian Athletics (@PMCavs) February 3, 2023 Anyone struggling with suicidal thoughts can call or text the U.S. National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988, or 800-273-8255 any time day or night, or chat online at https://988lifeline.org/chat/. This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: 'It's hard to process': Parents, teens, 6-year-old dead after shootings Simu Liu has opened an impromptu advice corner on Twitter and shared his thoughts on questions about accounting, careers and relationships. The Shang-Chi star, who previously worked as an accountant at Deloitte in Toronto, responded to a fan who asked him for help with his accounting homework. The fan pleaded on Friday (3 February): I dont know what the f*** Im doing Liu, 33, replied on Saturday: Hey, I know Im a little late, but how can I help? He proceeded to answer questions from other people, which ranged from explaining what an accrual is to helping someone get over their ex. Lius relationship advice for the latter question was to take a step back from the situation if they are struggling with their feelings. Theres a reason why no contact is the only tried-and-true method, he said. Dont give your heart the option to relapse! Another person asked: Can you help with my creative motivation/writers block? Feels like grief stole it and Im lost. Also not accounting, sorry. Liu advised: Take a step back and stop worrying about the final product. Watch things and allow yourself to get inspired all over again. Journal. Write about your grief. Go into therapy. Hey I know I'm a little late but how can I help https://t.co/Kz4IdXFnwq Simu Liu (@SimuLiu) February 4, 2023 However, when asked if he would do someone elses homework for them, Lius answer was firm but generous: I wont feed you the answers because then you wont learn anything but if you have specific questions Ill try to help. The actor, who is set to star in the forthcoming film Barbie this year alongside Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling, was applauded for trying to help others through social media. This whole thread is incredible, one person said. I dont have any accounting issues or albeit any knowledge or interest in accounting but just read the whole thread because you are just so kind to be on here helping with homework! Story continues Another wrote: We love a generous hero while a third added: Dang dude, youre a real life super hero. You are rich and famous and still take time for your fans who are asking you life questions. Respect. that's tough... i'd prob start with evaluating what's burning me out - am i doing the wrong job or working with the wrong ppl? am i doing the right job w right ppl but not taking enough time for me? am i feeling stuck bc i've lost sight of my purpose? Simu Liu (@SimuLiu) February 4, 2023 In April 2022, Liu celebrated the 10th anniversary of the day he was laid off from Deloitte. In an Instagram post, he wrote about how he was escorted to collect his belongings by a security guard after his employment was terminated. I fought back tears of humiliation, grabbed my things, and never looked back, he added. 10 years ago I thought my life was over. I had wasted countless time and money that my family had invested in me. Years of schooling, gifted programs, trying to live up to my parents expectation. It all came crashing down in an instant. However, after spending years trying to make it in Hollywood and chasing something many would call a pipe dream, Liu was cast in US sitcom Kims Convenience, and later became Marvels first Asia superhero in Shang-Chi and the Legend of the 10 Rings. Read The Independents 2022 interview with Liu here. An additional Memphis police officer has been fired after the death of Tyre Nichols, a 29-year-old man who died after he was beaten by officers last month, police said Friday. Officer Preston Hemphill, who had been relieved of duty, was departmentally charged and terminated for violations that include personal conduct, truthfulness and violating rules regarding a Taser stun device, police said in a statement. Departmental charges are not the same as criminal charges, and he has not been charged with a crime, police said. Five other Memphis police officers were fired and criminally charged with second-degree murder and other counts after the aggressive traffic stop and later beating of Nichols on Jan. 7. Police said in Friday's statement that an administrative investigation is underway, and multiple MPD officers are under investigation for departmental policy violations. Hemphill's attorney said Monday that Hemphill was at the scene of the traffic stop, but was never present at the later scene where Nichols was seen on video being punched, struck with a baton, and otherwise abused. Hemphill was hired by Memphis police in March 2018, the police department said. Nichols was hospitalized and died three days later. Seven Memphis police officers, including the five officers criminally charged and Hemphill, have been relieved of duty following the deadly encounter. Six of them have been fired. This week, three Memphis EMTs who responded to the incident were fired after an internal investigation, the Memphis Fire Department said. On Friday, a Tennessee Department of Health board suspended the licenses of two of the fired personnel Robert Long and JaMichael Sandridge for failing to render emergency care and treatment to Nichols for about 19 minutes after arriving at the scene, according to the order documents. The investigation is ongoing, a spokesperson for the health department said. Videos of the police stop and beating of Nichols shocked and horrified people across the nation. FBI Director Christopher Wray said he was "appalled," and President Joe Biden said he was outraged and he called the video horrific. CORRECTION (Feb. 4, 2023, 1 p.m.): A previous version of this article misspelled the first name of the FBI director. He is Christopher Wray, not Christoper. This article was originally published on NBCNews.com The Memphis Police Department announced Friday it had fired a sixth officer from the force after further investigating the death of Tyre Nichols last month. Officer Preston Hemphill violated multiple department policies, the police department statement said, including those related to personal conduct and truthfulness. Nichols, a 29-year-old Black father, died in the hospital after being beaten by several officers on Jan. 7 in Memphis, Tennessee, in a confrontation that began with a traffic stop. Five officers were fired Jan. 20 and were charged with second-degree murder and aggravated assault, among other charges. The later release of videos from police body cameras and other footage further inflamed tensions over brutal police tactics. Hemphill, who is white, joined the Memphis department in 2018. News of his firing comes days after the department said hed been relieved of duty but did not disclose Hemphills role in Nichols arrest. The Memphis Police Department confirmed Friday that multiple officers are still under investigation for their involvement in the arrest. Updates regarding other actions will be made available in the coming days, the department added. Earlier this week, the Memphis Fire Department announced that it, too, had fired three employees in connection with Nichols death. The two emergency medical technicians and a lieutenant had responded to the scene of Nichols arrest on Jan. 7. So far, only five people former Memphis police officers Desmond Mills, Justin Smith, Tadarrius Bean, Demetrius Haley and Emmitt Martin have been charged. However, the Shelby County district attorneys office indicated earlier this week its considering bringing charges against additional people and continues to investigate what happened the night of Nichols fatal beating. This is a developing story. Please check back for updates. Preston Hemphill Memphis Police Department / Via Twitter: @mem_policedept A sixth Memphis police officer who was involved in the arrest that led to the death of Tyre Nichols was fired Friday for failing to comply with rules on deploying his Taser, and for breaking other protocols. The Memphis Police Department said in a statement that an internal administrative investigation determined that Officer Preston Hemphill violated multiple department policies, including standards around personal conduct, truthfulness, and processing recovered property. Hemphill, who deployed his Taser during the Jan. 7 incident and is heard on his body camera video saying, I hope they stomp his ass after officers catch up to Nichols, was initially suspended from the police force on Monday. Also on Friday, the Tennessee Department of Health suspended the licenses of EMTs Robert Long and JaMichael Sandridge, who responded to the scene to treat Nichols after officers pepper sprayed and brutally beat him. A review by the departments Board of Emergency Medical Services found that for 19 minutes the emergency medical workers failed to check Nicholss vital signs, conduct an examination, and provide him with oxygen. During this 19-minute period of time, neither Mr. Sandridge nor Mr. Long engaged in emergency care treatment, Matthew Gibbs, an attorney for the state health department, said during the boards meeting Friday. [The patient] was clearly in distress. He was unable to remain in a seated position and lay prone on the ground multiple times. Robert Long and JaMichael Sandridge Memphis Fire Department / Via Twitter: @MEM_Fire Nicholss death has renewed outrage over police violence after graphic video showed Memphis cops punching, kicking, and striking the 29-year-old with a baton after pulling him over in a traffic stop. Nichols died in the hospital three days later after experiencing extensive bleeding from the beating, attorneys for his family said, citing an independent autopsy. Paramedics were called to the scene after he complained that he was having trouble breathing, but footage from a street camera and body-worn cameras showed officers and medical personnel dawdling and walking around as Nichols sat slumped against a squad car with hands shackled behind his back, struggling to hold up his body or speak. Story continues Five former officers who were involved in the beating are facing charges of second-degree murder , aggravated assault, aggravated kidnapping, official misconduct, and official oppression in connection with Nicholss death. The Shelby County district attorneys office has said more charges are possible, including against Hemphill and the emergency medical workers, who have so far not been charged. Signs calling for the officers and emergency personnel involved in Tyre Nichols's arrest to be named and charged are pictured in Memphis on Feb. 1, 2023. Lucy Garrett / Getty Images We are looking at all individuals involved in the events leading up to, during, and after the beating of Tyre Nichols, the office said in a statement Monday. Our goal remains the same: to seek justice for Tyre Nichols and hold all who contributed to his death accountable. In a statement to the New York Times, Hemphills lawyer Lee Gerald said he and his client disagreed with the basis of his firing but would continue to cooperate with the investigation into Nicholss death. Long, Sandridge, and Lieutenant Michelle Whitaker were fired by the Memphis Fire Department on Monday after the agency determined that the responders failed to conduct an adequate patient assessment. Whitaker never even got out of the fire truck at the scene, the department said. They were his best shot, and they failed to help, Sullivan Smith, chair of the states emergency medical services board, said during the groups meeting. Long and Sandridge could not be reached for comment by BuzzFeed News on Saturday. Memphis police are continuing to investigate other officers for department violations in relation to Nicholss death. Smith said the state health departments investigation into Nicholss treatment is also ongoing. More on this (Bloomberg) -- South African Deputy President David Mabuza resigned, clearing the way for Paul Mashatile, the new deputy leader of the governing African National Congress, to succeed him. Most Read from Bloomberg Speaking at family funeral in the northeastern Mpumalanga province, Mabuza said he had informed President Cyril Ramaphosa that he had resigned, and that he was making space for Mashatile. His remarks were broadcast on Cape Talk radio. While Ramaphosa can appoint any member of the National Assembly as his deputy, it has been an ANC tradition for the top two government posts to mirror its own. Mashatile, previously the ANCs treasurer-general, is expected to be sworn in as a lawmaker on Feb. 6, a clear indication that hes set to join the executive. Ideally it is the deputy president of the ANC who becomes deputy president of the country, Fikile Mbalula, the ANCs secretary general, told reporters last week. Mashatiles appointment, along with several other cabinet changes, are likely to be announced in coming days. Deputy President Mabuza has expressed his desire to step down from his position, following the outcome of the governing partys leadership elections in December 2022, Vincent Magwenya, Ramaphosas spokesman, said in a text. However, President Ramaphosa has requested the Deputy President to remain in his role until such time the modalities of his departure and transition have been finalized. Read more: Rising Political Star Has a Plan to Fix South Africas Economy Mabuza, 62, was instrumental in helping Ramaphosa win control of the ANC in late 2017, while securing the No. 2 party post for himself. Mashatile won the latter post at an ANC conference in December, after Mabuza failed to secure a single nomination from any of the partys structures. Story continues A former schoolteacher, Mabuza was linked to a string of scandals while serving a premier of Mpumalanga, but wasnt charged and denied any wrongdoing. He has kept a relatively low profile since Ramaphosa named him as his deputy in 2018, and has traveled to Russia to be treated for an undisclosed condition. Ramaphosa was reelected as ANC leader in December, meaning hell be the partys presidential candidate in 2024 elections. Several opinion polls show the ANC risks losing the majority it has held since the end of apartheid in 1994, a backlash against its failure to tackle record blackouts, rampant unemployment and poverty. --With assistance from Ana Monteiro. (Updates with comment from Ramaphosa spokesman in sixth paragraph) Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2023 Bloomberg L.P. PIERRE, S.D. (AP) The conversation between a state senator and a legislative aide started with a seemingly routine discussion about a bill. It suddenly spiraled as the senator allegedly harassed the aide because she had vaccinated her young child, plunging the Senate into a political drama that has divided South Dakota's Republican Party. The Senate, where lawmakers pride themselves on a genteel code of conduct as they work from wooden desks that have been there for generations, has seemed largely insulated from the forces roiling the wider GOP. But even here, controversy was inevitable as an insurgent brand of Republicans look to challenge the establishment by pushing for hardline stands on social issues and passionately staking out positions that defy evidence, whether it is from medical authorities or election officials. South Dakota is dominated by Republicans, and Gov. Kristi Noem, who is widely seen as mulling a 2024 White House bid, has branded it as the country's most conservative state. But party tensions have grown in recent years. A contrarian group has gained traction in the House with support from activists, and the State Freedom Caucus Network, which is looking to push politics rightward and disrupt business-as-usual in state Legislatures, including Montana, Wyoming, Illinois, Arizona and Mississippi, has organized in Pierre. Sen. Julie Frye-Mueller returned to the floor of the Senate after being censured in Pierre on Feb. 1. Its just sound and fury, its blaming each other, talking smack about each other and yet on most of the issues the principles are the same, said Michael Card, a former Republican official and political scientist at the University of South Dakota. Nationally, the GOP has been plagued with similar strains of controversy. A politician like Rep. George Santos of New York is able to hold office despite lying about his background and facing multiple investigations into his personal and campaign finances. Former President Donald Trump remains an active and powerful force. And a handful of U.S. House holdouts were emboldened to hold up the selection of House Speaker Kevin McCarthy. Story continues Statehouses have become fertile ground for nationalized politics, said Gerald Gamm, a professor of political science and history at the University of Rochester who has researched state-level politics. Polarization at the state level is probably as high today as its ever been, he said. More:Discipline committee releases staffer's testimony in Sen. Julie Frye-Mueller censure case Julie Frye-Mueller, the Republican senator involved in the incident with the aide, is among a group of hardline right-wing lawmakers who have clashed with top Republicans. The encounter took place as the aide, who has not been publicly named, was discussing a draft bill in her office last week with Frye-Mueller and the senator's husband, Mike Mueller, who was at the Capitol assisting his wife and later in the week testified in support of a resolution expressing sympathy for those facing charges for the Jan. 6, 2021, U.S. Capitol riot. Both the aide and Frye-Mueller have said their discussion turned to childhood vaccinations and breastfeeding, but their accounts differ. According to the aide's complaint, Frye-Mueller asked if she had vaccinated her child. When the aide said yes, the senator pointed her finger and aggressively told her the child could have health issues or die, according to the complaint. She also alleged that Frye-Mueller asked her about breastfeeding. When the aide said she wished she could breastfeed, Frye-Mueller allegedly suggested that the aides husband could suck on my breasts to get milk to come in, the complaint said. Frye-Muellers husband was in the room at the time and smiled and nodded, it added. Frye-Mueller disputed that account in testimony to a Senate committee investigating the complaint. She said it was the staffer who brought up breastfeeding. Frye-Mueller said she asked the aide whether she wanted advice she had received as a young mother, and when the aide said yes, she said, Have your husband help. Sen. Julie Frye-Mueller prepares to testify in front of the Senate Select Committee on Discipline and Expulsion in Pierre on Tuesday, Jan. 31. Frye-Mueller said she was falsely accused and called the aides complaint shocking and filthy. She also framed her comments as an issue of freedom of speech. The senator also testified that she questioned whether newborn babies in Pierre were receiving vaccinations and informed the aide about legislation that would have eliminated school requirements for childhood vaccinations. Republicans, who hold 31 out of 35 seats in the Senate, moved decisively and treated the incident as a personnel issue and a serious harassment allegation. The body suspended her last week, launched an investigation and on Wednesday overwhelmingly voted to censure her. The Senate also ended her suspension and adopted a report that concluded she harassed the aide. Senate Republican leaders, who initially kept the allegations a secret, faced backlash from local party activists, a lawsuit from Frye-Mueller and accusations of political retribution. More:Federal judge denies Sen. Julie Frye-Mueller's efforts to stop disciplinary proceedings During her Senate testimony, Frye-Mueller even pointed to a Facebook post from the Republican Senate Pro Tempore Lee Schoenbeck about the death of a family cat. She alleged it was somehow proof of a conspiracy that he was employing a dead cat strategy of drawing attention to something shocking to distract media attention from another story. Schoenbeck said he was, in fact, referring to the death of a beloved family pet. The longtime lawmaker, known for wearing Mister Rogers-style sweaters and firing colorful insults at right-wing legislators, has limited his comments on Frye-Mueller's discipline and framed it as a personnel issue. Other Republican and Democratic leaders have sought to tone down the political context around her suspension and pointed out that all but one Senator voted for her censure. In the past, however, Schoenbeck has called Frye-Mueller and others wackadoodles and funded campaigns to unseat them in primaries, with limited success. Noem has also clashed with the right-wing lawmakers and last year supported a number of campaigns to def again, with limited success. As her political ambitions stretch beyond South Dakota, she has shown a willingness to concede to hardline conservatives. When House lawmakers advanced a bill in 2020 to ban gender-affirming medical procedures for transgender minors, she criticized the legislation as trying to fill parenting gaps with more government. This year her spokesman has voiced support for a similar proposal. When you have a supermajority, you will always tear yourself apart, said Tom Dempster, a former Republican state senator who remains a close political watcher. The primary system incentivizes extreme candidates. Back in Frye-Mueller's home district, support for her remains strong. Activists in the Fall River County Republican Party drafted a resolution backing the senator. Im conservative like she is she votes the way I would, said Ken Updike, a local party leader who pushed the resolution. Senate leaders, he said, are more aligned with Democrats than they are Republicans. This article originally appeared on Sioux Falls Argus Leader: A South Dakota Senate aide's allegation roils GOP politics Connecticut returned $70.7 million in unclaimed property to state residents over the past year, but the often-overlooked program continued to accumulate many millions of dollars more in additional uncashed checks, forgotten savings accounts, unclaimed insurance policies and misplaced refunds. The Connecticut Treasurers Office, which oversees the unclaimed property fund, announced this week that the $70.7 million in financial assets that were reclaimed during the 2022 fiscal year was the most money the program has paid out in its history. Erick Russell, the newly elected state treasurer, credited state lawmakers and his predecessor Shawn Wooden for increasing the number of people who were reunited with their money. Im taking office at an exciting time for the program, Russell said. But even with the record-setting year in 2022, the state continued to take in cash that belongs to individuals, nonprofits and other entities. The treasurers office reported in December that it collected $183 million in unclaimed property during the 2022 fiscal year. It has now amassed more than $1.4 billion in various financial assets that could be claimed through the program. The state compiled that money over decades by requiring banks, utilities, insurance companies and other businesses to turn over any assets that have gone untouched for several years. Those companies are forced to hand that money over to the state if they cannot make contact with the owners of those assets. The primary purpose of the program, which started in the early 1930s, is to reconnect people with their money, but the state has historically not been great about accomplishing that goal. Any money in the unclaimed property fund that is not quickly claimed by its owner is used either to fund Connecticuts public campaign finance system or is swept into the legislatures biennial budget. But that doesnt prevent the owners of the remaining unclaimed property from demanding their money back from the state at a later date. The treasurers office is on the hook for those debts, whether the state took possession of the money last year or decades ago. The CT Mirror published an investigation last year that showed how the state seized more than $2.3 billion through the program between 2000 and 2021, and it highlighted how the treasurers office returned less than 37% of that money over that 20-year period. The story also revealed how millions of dollars in assets that were valued at less than $50 were not included on the CT Big List, a state website where people can find and reclaim their missing money. Officials in the state treasurers office initially responded to that story by claiming the CT Mirror had misled the public about the program. Several weeks later, however, former treasurer Shawn Wooden announced a number of changes to the program to make it easier for people to identify their assets and submit claims for that money. Wooden, for the first time, posted all of the unclaimed property valued at less than $50 to CT Big List, and he removed an earlier policy that required people to have their claims notarized before they would be accepted by the state. Those changes and the public attention that was brought to the program last year had huge impacts, according to the most recent statistics that were compiled by the treasurers office. The number of people, nonprofits and other organizations that have money listed on the CT Big List increased dramatically as a result of the lower-value assets being added to the website. The total number of owners included on that searchable list spiked from roughly 1.1 million during the 2021 fiscal year to more than 9.6 million during the 2022 fiscal year a direct result of the addition to the list of those owed less than $50, as reported in CT Mirrors investigation. A surge in claims The public spotlight on the program also caused an increase in the number of people who attempted to reclaim their money from the state. An annual report from the treasurers office noted that the unclaimed property program, at its peak, received more than 140,000 claims during the first two weeks of February 2022. Thats more claims than the state successfully paid out from the 2014 fiscal year through 2021 fiscal year an 8-year period. But not all of the claims that were submitted during the past year have been fulfilled. The statistics for the unclaimed property program make it clear that only a small fraction of the claims that were filed during the 2022 fiscal year resulted in the state reuniting people with their money. The treasurers office said it paid out 24,468 of the roughly 264,000 individual claims it received during the 2022 fiscal year another record-setting number. But that means more than 239,000 other claims were still stuck in the pipeline in June 2022, at the end of the fiscal year. That claims process can be held up for all kinds of reasons, the treasurers office told the CT Mirror. Some of the claims that are submitted are duplicates. Others are never followed up on because the owners learn how much money they are owed and decide the claim isnt worth their time and effort. And many are held up because the state requires the filers to submit various paperwork to prove they are the rightful owners of the money. Waiting in line Jocelyn Ault and her husband fall into that last category. The Stratford residents were among the tens of thousands of people who inundated the treasurers office with claims last February. The couple searched the states online list of unclaimed property after reading the CT Mirrors investigation and realized the state had taken control of more than $4,000 that was owed to them. Ault said she and her husband submitted claims in late February for more than 16 different assets that they believed belonged to them. And then, they waited patiently. Ault said they gave the treasurers office several months to contact them about their claims, but they grew concerned in August when nothing had materialized. At that point, they were well past the 90 days that the treasurers office says is required to process most claims. The couple followed up by calling the treasurers office, and only then were they informed that some of their claims required extra paperwork to prove their identities. Officials with the unclaimed property program asked Ault for her marriage certificate since one of the assets was listed under her maiden name. And the treasurers office instructed Aults husband to contact the bank where he had previously opened two savings accounts. The social security numbers on those accounts did not match his own, Ault said, likely because he had opened those accounts for their now-grown children. Once they received those instructions, Ault said things were delayed even further because the follow-up emails they received from the state were flagged as spam in their inbox. It took Ault several months to learn about that issue, which delayed her from submitting the required paperwork. Ault admits that the email snafu was her oversight. But she is still frustrated with the current system. She doesnt understand, for instance, why an issue with one asset would prevent the state from returning all of the other money that belongs to her. Only one of the assets she claimed an uncashed check worth $196 was listed under her maiden name. Yet that issue has prevented the state from returning an additional $2,989 in back pay, refunds and investments that are listed under her married name. Many of those assets included the address where Ault has lived for the past three decades. The program, she argued, should not require so much work on the part of Connecticut residents in cases where the state has the information and the means to identify and locate who the money belongs to. A significant number states have taken steps in recent years to make it easier for people to cash in on their unclaimed property. Those states, including Illinois, Louisiana, Delaware, Wisconsin, North Carolina and Rhode Island, have made changes to their laws so officials can locate people on their unclaimed property lists and automatically mail checks to them. But in Connecticut, the burden still largely falls to individuals and organizations to initiate the process of retrieving their money. Wooden, who decided not to campaign for a second term as treasurer, tried to change that last year. He helped promote legislation that would have allowed the treasurers office to access state tax information and other governmental data so the treasury staff could find current addresses for people named on the CT Big List. And he asked state lawmakers to authorize his office to automatically mail checks to individuals who could be properly identified. Lawmakers eventually included some of those requests in an annual budget bill, but before they passed that legislation, they stripped out the requirement for the Department of Revenue Services and other state agencies to share their data with the treasurer. Woodens staff acknowledged that the change likely defeated the purpose of the legislation. The treasurers office is now authorized to mail out checks for unclaimed property that is valued under $2,500, but without access to state tax data, the office is unlikely to locate the correct addresses for the hundreds of people on the CT Big List. The bill that was passed in 2022 also required the treasurer to send out first class mail notifying anyone who had property added to the CT Big List in the past year and instructing them on how to apply for that money. That piece of the law is supposed to go into effect this year. But that requirement is also likely to run into a similar problem as the automatic payments. Without more accurate data, the treasurer is likely to be mailing those notifications to the often-outdated addresses that were used by the banks, utility companies and insurance carriers in the first place, leading them to be turned over to the state. There are two bills filed this year that would fix that problem by giving the treasurer access to the state tax data it asked for last year. But so far, there are only three sponsors on that legislation all of them Republican. Russell, who just finished his first month as treasurer, said he is still becoming acquainted with the unclaimed property program and the legislative changes that were made last year. But he said he is interested in continuing to improve upon the program so that more people can access their money. That includes advocating at the legislature for the additional tools and assistance that his office needs, he said. Were making a priority of both getting additional staff where we need to in order to help move these claims along, Russell said. But Im also really interested in looking at things like really improving our technology, allowing us to process some of these claims more quickly. If the treasurers office could automatically issue checks for smaller assets, Russell said, his staff could focus more of their attention on vetting and approving the larger claims, which will continue to require paperwork. There still is this kind of backlog and the need to go through these claims, one by one, Russell said. I think the technology piece of this will be huge when were able to get that implemented. Over the past six months, Russell said, the staff in the treasurers office has continued to manage a historic number of claims and is on pace to far exceed the 24,000 claims that were paid out in the 2022 fiscal year. The sheer number of people seeking to access the program, Russell said, shows the value of the program. Its a really important part of my office, and that is not lost on me at all, Russell said. Its why I really want to make this a priority. Municipal members of the Michigan South Central Power Agency voted Thursday, Feb. 2, to have its manager notify the Michigan Public Service Commission it will not have adequate resources to meet its power capacity needs for 2025-26 as required under state law. The agency is working to address that deficiency indirectly related to the 2017 closing of its 55-megawatt Endicott coal-fired power plant in Litchfield and its subsequent demolition. MSCPA Endicott coal plant in Litchfield closed in 2017 and demolished The cost of that plants power production and new environmental regulations was too much to continue operation. Coldwater, Clinton, Hillsdale and Marshall decided in December to install seven bio-diesel generators totaling 59.3 megawatts in its four member communities to meet future power needs and meet state requirements. Prior story MSCPA members move to install local generation After a two-hour closed session Thursday, members could not agree to proceed collectively to purchase the generation units from the North Carolina firm Power Secure. Some of the communities are interested in moving forward. Some are unsure, said MSCPA chair and Hillsdale city manager Dave Mackie. Dave Mackie The size of units, cost and financing costs will impact the price customers pay per kilowatt. Proposed pricing, financing and costs were part of the closed session discussion. Some members are unsure of the technology being used, reciprocating internal combustion engines termed RICE units fueled by bio-diesel. Some think natural gas is a better fuel. A 14 MW RICE gas generator owned by Coldwater. The documentation will be going in front of each individual communities over the month of February to decide on their own," Mackie said. The Hillsdale manager said the Hillsdale Board of Public Utilities plans to recommend the city go forward. We have two sites with potential for 15 megawatts of capacity. Coldwater Board of Public Utilities authorized Wednesday night to proceed with purchase of 7.5 MW, half of the original proposed 15 MW. Paul Jakubczak We will continue to move forward with them. But we're going to continue to look at what the best cost option is for our customers, whatever that option may be," manager Paul Jakubczak said. Story continues We're going to have to do something," Marshall utility manager Kevin Maynard said. "We need to meet our capacity requirements. We've developed our power supply portfolio, taken numerous pieces from different projects as a means to try to reduce our risk on any one of those particular projects," Maynard said. Kevin Maynard Marshall considered 18.7 MW to meet its needs. The alternative to building generation is power purchase agreements from existing or planned generators including solar. Capacity prices are likely to increase because there isn't a lot of capacity being constructed here. There's quite a bit that's being retired with coal fired generation and Palisades nuclear," Maynard said. Maynard will take the issue back to his city council for consideration. We think there's a risk of not doing something. His question is how much of the capacity should be put into RICE generators. Members purchased output from various gas, hydroelectric, coal, solar, wind and even battery storage to cover power needs after closing Endicott. MSCPA had plans since 2019 to a 50 MW gas powered generator off Newton Road in Coldwater. Those plans were scraped in December after the price rose from $35 million to $55 million. Prior story CBPU cancels plans for high-cost 50 MW natural gas generator Also adding to the cost was the Midcontinent Independent System Operator setting the cost of transmission grid upgrades at $4 million just to connect the plant. The local RICE generator would be built behind the meter on the municipal side of the grid, avoiding the cost of transmission upgrades. In 2016 Public Act 341 required all electric providers to annually demonstrate to the MPSC that they have enough generating capacity to serve customers four years into the future. This includes municipal utilities. Subscribe Subscribe to the Daily Reporter. MSCPA manager Pam Sullivan said the agency will talk to the Public Service Commission, And explain the reason for the deficiency, work on a solution, and then refile in the next few months with the plan to meet and correct that deficiency. Whatever decision will impact the future cost of electricity for each municipal customer. Contact Don Reid: dReid@Gannett.com. Follow him on Twitter: @DReidTDR. This article originally appeared on Coldwater Daily Reporter: No consensus on MSCPA cities power supplies for 2025-26 with questions about local generators By Waakhe Simon Wudu and Duncan Miriri JUBA (Reuters) - Pope Francis will lead prayers at the mausoleum of South Sudanese liberation hero John Garang on Saturday, an acknowledgement of the importance for the world's youngest nation of perhaps the one leader who could ensure unity. Garang was killed in a helicopter crash in July 2005, less than a month after becoming president of the autonomous Southern Sudan region, which he had led in a rebellion against Sudan's central government for two decades. The mostly Christian and animist south voted in a referendum six years later to secede from the mostly Muslim north. When South Sudan became independent on July 9, 2011, tens of thousands flocked to Garang's mausoleum in the new capital of Juba to celebrate. But his charisma and political acumen would be sorely missed in the ensuing years, as the country descended into civil war. "We did not vote for separation to fight among ourselves. I don't think this was what Garang was fighting for," said John Manja, 33, a motorbike taxi driver in Juba. Hundreds of thousands of people died as a result of the war, which was fought largely along ethnic lines, and resulting hunger and disease from 2013-2018. The pope's visit is aimed in part at shoring up a 2018 peace deal that has reduced violence but seen crucial provisions delayed or ignored altogether, fanning fears of a return to full-scale war. In the latest indication of the precarious state of the peace, 27 people were killed in Central Equatoria state on Thursday, the day before the pope arrived in the country, in tit-for-tat violence between herders and members of a militia, a county official said. INSPIRED BY LIBERATION THEOLOGY Garang, a U.S.-trained economics graduate whose garrulous personality matched his more than 6-foot, 200-pound frame, did not champion secession. He advocated a unified, secular Sudan in which the south enjoyed considerable autonomy. Despite being baptised at an early age in the Anglican church, Garang embraced diverse Christian teachings, his son, Mabior, told Reuters. Story continues "He was inspired by a liberation theology similar to that of the Catholic priests and bishops of Latin America," Mabior said. Garang began his career as a fighter with separatist rebels in the south before being conscripted into the Sudanese army after a 1972 peace deal. He rose his way up to colonel but left to lead the rebellion that spread when President Jaafar Nimeiri tried to impose sharia law across Sudan in 1982. Garang rallied South Sudan's disparate ethnic groups behind a common cause. The fighting ended with a 2005 peace deal in which the south won significant autonomy and the right to decide its future in a referendum six years later. Although some critics accused Garang of spending too much in foreign capitals or complained that his genial demeanour masked a ruthless streak, his death might have robbed the country of its greatest force for unity. Conflict broke out in December 2013 when President Salva Kiir, whom Garang had appointed as his deputy two weeks before his death, fell out with First Vice President Riek Machar. Garang's widow, Rebecca, is one of South Sudan's five vice presidents, along with Machar, in a unity government formed after the 2018 peace deal. Today's leaders have to build on his legacy, she said in an interview this week. "He has brought us freedom and he told us that I have delivered this (on) the golden plate," she said. "It is for us who are alive to see what to do with it." (Reporting by Waakhe Simon Wudu in Juba and Duncan Miriri in Nairobi; Editing by Aaron Ross, Robert Birsel) Noble + Proper is super cozy and oh so cool. Jenny Siegwart Big Bear, California just welcomed a brand-new place to stay thats a throwback classic. In January, Noble + Proper opened its doors, ushering in a new era of luxury-meets-rustic energy in the busy Southern California mountain town. And its all designed by Sara Simon, a Los Angeles-based interior designer. I like to push the limits, and my motto is, Bringing hospitality home. I am an avid traveler and draw so much inspiration from time spent in different locations around the world, Simon said in a statement provided to Travel + Leisure. I continuously strive to design places that really make people feel like they are at some kick-ass place on vacation, so when my husband and I acquired this property, it was the perfect opportunity to make my vision come to life. Jenny Siegwart Simon added that the eight cabins are named after her and her husbands grandparents, and themed after that person, making them all feel inviting and warm, just as a hug from a grandparent would. Jenny Siegwart Each cabin, ranging from two to four bedrooms, comes with private baths, mini-fridges, complimentary coffee and sparkling water, air conditioning, and heat (perfect for year-round visits), as well as the ultimate Southern California luxury: Parachute Home linens. Jenny Siegwart Jenny Siegwart Jenny Siegwart The largest cabin, known as Orvilles Lodge, is ideal for those on a group getaway, as it comes with 3,000 square feet of space, including a full dining room, game room, eat-in kitchen, a hot tub, a private patio, and enough space for up to 14 guests. It also comes decked out in a moody emerald green hue, with rich leather furnishings, black-tiled bathrooms, and vintage art for just the right backdrop to your mountain stay. Jenny Siegwart I had in mind the traveler looking for something cool, funky, and unique. Something that is out of the ordinary, Simon said of the people she envisioned booking her cozy accommodations. This is not the place you are coming to if you are wanting a bear carved out of wood. These places are timeless with a bit of a twist, the ultimate environment for people who want to relax after a long day on the slopes, lake, or trails. And if you like a good selfie, we got you covered. Story continues See more about the cabins, which begin at $495 per night, here. For more Travel & Leisure news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter! Read the original article on Travel & Leisure. COLOMBO, Sri Lanka (AP) Sri Lanka marked its 75th independence anniversary on Saturday as a bankrupt nation, with many citizens angry, anxious and in no mood to celebrate. President Ranil Wickremesinghe, who has started to improve some but not all of the acute shortages, acknowledged the somber state of the nation, saying in a televised speech, We have reached the point of destruction. "Lets seek to heal this wound though its difficult and painful. If we endure the suffering and pain for a short period of time, we can get the wound healed completely, Wickremesinghe said, adding that the first six months of the year will be difficult. Many Buddhists and Christian clergy had announced a boycott of the celebration in the capital, while activists and others expressed anger at what they see as a waste of money in a time of severe economic crisis. A group of activists began a silent protest on Friday in the capital, condemning the governments independence celebration and failure to ease the economic burden. University students also attempted a protest march later Saturday but police blocked them. Troops with assault rifles were stationed every few meters (yards) surrounding the site of the independence ceremony and riot police stood ready to prevent anti-government demonstrations. Despite the criticism, armed troops paraded along the main esplanade in Colombo, showcasing military equipment as navy ships sailed nearby and helicopters and aircraft flew over the city. Catholic priest Rev. Cyril Gamini called this year's ceremony commemorating independence from British rule a crime and waste at a time when the country is experiencing such economic hardship. We ask the government what independence they are going to proudly celebrate by spending a sum of 200 million rupees ($548,000), said Gamini, adding the Catholic Church does not condone spending public money on the celebration and that no priest would attend the ceremony. Story continues About 7% of Buddhist-majority Sri Lankas 22 million people are Christians, most of them Catholics. Despite being a minority, the churchs views are respected. Prominent Buddhist monk Omalpe Sobitha also said there was no reason to celebrate and that the ceremony was just an exhibition of weapons made in other countries. Sri Lanka is effectively bankrupt and has suspended repayment of nearly $7 billion in foreign debt due this year pending the outcome of talks with the International Monetary Fund for a bailout package. The countrys total foreign debt exceeds $51 billion, of which $28 billion has to be repaid by 2027. Unsustainable debt and a severe balance of payment crisis, on top of lingering scars from the COVID-19 pandemic, have led to a severe shortage of essentials such as fuel, medicine and food. Massive protests last year forced Wickremesinghe's predecessor, Gotabaya Rajapaksa, to flee the country and resign. Despite some improvements, power cuts continue due to the fuel shortages, hospitals struggle with a lack of medicines, and the treasury cannot raise money to pay government employees. To manage the country's expenses, the government has increased income taxes sharply and has announced a 6% cut in funds allocated to each ministry. Also, the military, which had swelled to more than 200,000 members amid a long civil war, will be downsized by nearly half by 2030. Wickremesinghe said that everyone, politicians and the citizens alike, were to blame for the country's woes. He said from the early days of independence, Sri Lankans were divided in terms of race, religion and region. We worked for political candidates expecting personal favours in return. Most of us contested not for the country, but for personal power, for greater perks and to earn a little more. Wickremesinghe also said steps were being taken to restore ethnic amity in the country by releasing military-occupied land in the ethnic Tamil-majority north and releasing suspects detained for alleged connections with a now-defunct separatist rebel movement. He also promised to devolve maximum power to the Tamil regions. Tamil rebels fought for an independent state in the country's northeast for more than 25 years until they were crushed by the military in 2009. More than 100,000 people were killed in the conflict by conservative U.N estimates. Successive governments pledged maximum power-sharing with Tamils, short of a separate homeland, but have not followed up on them. A balloon flies in the sky over Billings, Montana, on February 1, 2022. Chase Doak/via REUTERS A standard research tool from the United States became the most-tracked aircraft on FlightRadar24. Thousands mistook it for the suspected Chinese spy balloon that has gripped global attention. FlightRadar24 updated its listing to clarify: "Sorry, this is not a Chinese balloon." A standard high-altitude research tool from the United States became the world's most-tracked aircraft on popular flight-tracking website FlightRadar24 after thousands mistook it for the suspected Chinese spy balloon that was spotted flying above Montana on February 1. On Saturday, FlightRadar24 updated the aircraft's label to clarify that it was a standard vessel under the control of the United States, writing: "Sorry, this is not a Chinese balloon." At least 4,000 users followed every move of research balloon, named HBAL617, on FlightRadar24. It was site's most-tracked aircraft late Friday and early Saturday. According to Reuters, HBAL617 belongs to aeronautics company Aerostar, which is based in South Dakota. The high-altitude Chinese balloon flying over the United States has gripped civilian and military attention worldwide and prompted Secretary of State Anthony Blinken to postpone a scheduled trip to Beijing. On Friday, Chinese officials admitted that the balloon came from China, but insisted that it was a "civilian airship used for research" rather than a tool for surveillance. United States officials have rejected this assertion. In a statement, the Pentagon's press secretary, Brigadier General Pat Ryder, said: "The fact is we know that it's a surveillance balloon, and I'm not going to be able to be more specific than that." After some Twitter users asked whether FlightRadar24 would track the suspected Chinese surveillance balloon, the company said: "We are not expecting a spy balloon to reveal its location by transmitting ADS-B." Aircrafts use ADS-B to broadcast their identification, position, altitude and velocity to other vessels. There has been pressure from certain members of Congress, as well as former president Donald Trump, to shoot down the Chinese balloon, but authorities say it's not that simple in part because fighter jets aren't designed to target balloons. When a weather balloon went rogue almost 25 years ago, two Royal Canadian Air Force fighter jets fired over 1,000 rounds at it and still couldn't shoot it down. Read the original article on Business Insider Men harvest avocados at an orchard in Santa Ana Zirosto, Michoacan state, Mexico, Thursday, Jan. 26, 2023. Armando Solis/AP As the February 12 Super Bowl nears, shipments of Mexican avocados are getting police protection. The fatty fruits were falling prey to cartels robbing truck drivers on their way to shipping plants. As avocados sell for $2.50 a piece in America, a truckload may carry $80,000 to $100,000's worth. While millions of Americans prepare for the Super Bowl 2023, some guests get a police escort: Mexican avocados. These avocados, bound to be game-day guacamole on February 12, make a treacherous journey before they arrive at your grocery store. After they've been picked in the orchards of Santa Ana, truck drivers like Jesus Quintero take their cargo to shipping plants in Uruapan some 40 miles away. Along the journey, drivers face threats from drug cartels, extortion gangs, and common criminals, the Associated Press reported. As a result, Quintero and other drivers get a police escort to protect their valuable, fatty fruits, which sell for up to $2.50 a piece in America. A single crate in Quintero's truck may hold $100-worth of avocados; a full truckload may be worth $80,000 to $100,000, the AP reported. "It is more peaceful now with the patrol trucks accompanying us, because this is a very dangerous area," Quintero told the AP. "They have stolen one or two, one every week, but it's not daily like it used to be." Quintero said robbers have not only stolen the valuable fruits, but also the trucks that drive them. "They would take away our trucks and the fruit, sometimes they'd take the truck as well," Quintero told the AP. "They would steal two or three trucks per day in this area." One time, Quintero was driving when "two young guys came out and they took our truck and tied us up." Police guard trucks loaded with avocados on their way to the city of Uruapan in Santa Ana Zirosto, Michoacan state, Mexico, Thursday, Jan. 26, 2023. Armando Solis/AP The thefts also impacted the producers, who make contracts with packing and shipping plants to send a certain quantity of avocados. If those avocados don't make it to their destination, they may lose the customer, the AP reported. "The main people affected are the producers," avocado grower Jose Evaristo Valencia told the AP. "People were losing three or four trucks every day." Story continues The robberies have "gone down a lot" since police began escorting the trucks, Quintero said. The police escort about 40 trucks per day, helping some 300 tons of avocados reach their destination on a daily basis, state police officer Jorge Gonzalez told the Associated Press. "These operations have managed to cut the (robbery) rate by about 90 to 95 percent," Gonzalez said. "We accompany them to the packing house, so they can enter with their trucks with no problem." Read the original article on Insider It's a bird! It's a plane! Actually, it's a Chinese spy balloon, Defense Department officials say. After a Chinese surveillance balloon was spotted drifting over the northern United States, the U.S. government "acted immediately to protect against the collection of sensitive information," Air Force Brig. Gen. Pat Ryder, the Pentagon press secretary, told reporters. U.S. officials considered shooting the balloon down when it was over Montana, but decided against it due to concerns that debris could injure American bystanders or destroy property. China denied that the balloon is a spycraft, calling it a civilian airship meant for meteorological and other research that blew off course. We know that its a surveillance balloon, Ryder said. Here's what to know about spy balloons. Chinese spy balloon spotted in US airspace What are spy balloons? Spy balloons are just that balloons equipped for surveillance. The balloons can be equipped with reconnaissance technology to "observe sights of interest and gather data," but can't be steered the same way a drone or airplane could be, according to Marina Miron, a defense researcher at Kings College London. John Parachini, a senior international and defense researcher at the nonprofit RAND Corporation, said that since the balloon is traveling in higher airspace above where commercial planes manned by civilians fly the balloon likely has a communications system that guides it on its flight, adjusting based on wind speed and direction. Without boarding the balloon, it would be difficult to verify Chinas claim that it is a civilian vehicle, Parachini said. But even if the balloon is meant for non-military research, that doesn't mean it wont provide information useful to Chinas military, he said. For example, China may have been waiting to see when and how U,S. military forces responded to this intrusion of U.S. air space, Parachini said. When were they first used? The first known usage of spy balloons occurred in 1794 by France during the Battle of Fleurus, according to the U.S. Centennial of Flight Commission. Story continues The French military's so-called "balloon corps," or "Aerostiers," used the balloons to spy on Dutch and Austrian troops, according to the commission. Two people would float up in the balloons basket; one would observe the enemy, and the other would signal to the ground crew controlling the balloon. The French won the battle, and several subsequently, thanks to the new techniques. US President Joe Biden (R) and China's President Xi Jinping (L) shakes hands as they meet on the sidelines of the G20 Summit in Nusa Dua on the Indonesian resort island of Bali on November 14, 2022. Has the U.S. used them before? During the Civil War, the U.S. used hot air balloons to track Confederate troops movements, and in the 1950s the U.S. Air Force set in motion the first large-scale, unmanned, high altitude balloon intelligence operation Project Genetrix, during which reconnaissance balloons photographed Soviet land mass. In 2019, the U.S. launched the Covert Long-Dwell Stratospheric Architecture (COLD STAR) program, which included spy balloons used to track hypersonic missiles in light of increased risks of launch by Russia and China, Miron said. What is curious about this incident," Parachini said, "is that China has satellites that are 300 miles above the earth that can provide surveillance over much of the same territory this balloon has traveled." Why would China use a spy balloon now? Parachini said one possibility for the surveillance balloon could be because China wants to conduct surveillance of military sites and test whether the U.S. would notice such surveillance is taking place. The balloon also could be sending a political message ahead of planned meetings U.S. Secretary of State Anthony Blinken had scheduled with Chinese officials in Beijing. Parachini said the surveillance balloon could be seen as provocative action to affect upcoming meetings. Michon added that it may also serve as political signaling regarding the U.S. possibility of increasing its military presence in the Philippines. China wants to remind the U.S. that the U.S., too, has weak spots that China can exploit with impunity, she said. Has this happened before? Similar balloons also thought to be of Chinese origin have flown near other military sites in Guam and Hawaii, and the balloon this week could be collecting information about U.S. nuclear missile silos, according to Bradley Bowman, senior director of the Center on Military and Political Power at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, and Ryan Brobst, a research analyst there. However, there is also a chance China is testing its ability to enter U.S. airspace and lost control of the balloon because of a strong winds or a malfunction, Parachini said. He hypothesized China could be doing civilian research and the weather caused the balloon to stray from its course. Scientific experiment mistakes do happen, he said. Can the U.S. just 'shoot it down'? Since the spy balloons existence became known, lawmakers have called for the U.S. government to "shoot it down," and officials say they have weighed that option. But taking the balloon down from the sky might be trickier than it seems, according to Bowman and Brobst. "Our radars and missiles are generally designed for fast moving targets usually at lower altitudes that often emit heat," they said over email. "This is a slow moving target at high altitude that emits little to no heat." Shooting the balloon down might prevent the U.S. from reverse-engineering technology that the balloon is carrying, too, Miron said. Some of the options, after having observed it, would be to try ensure that whatever technology is being used, is disabled and cannot fulfill its purpose. If shot down, the balloon which has been estimated to be the size of two buses could leave a debris field twenty miles long and wide, Parachini said. Where the debris might land from that height is hard to predict, he said. A mistake could result in the debris falling on a populated area, damaging property and injuring people below. Dig deeper: Contributing: Maureen Groppe, Tom Vanden Brook This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: What we know about the Chinese spy balloon spotted over the U.S. A man allegedly armed with a gun was shot and killed by a Kansas City, Kansas police officer on Friday evening. The shooting unfolded after officers with Kansas City, Kansas police were first called around 5:45 p.m. to a home in the 5400 block of Haskell Avenue on a reported drug overdose. A man and woman there were found unresponsive and taken away by ambulance. Officers at the scene saw another man fleeing the house on a bicycle when they arrived, information that was relayed over police radio. Other officers responded to the area to assist with finding him. A few blocks away, near 52nd Street and Georgia Avenue, a police officer spotted a man who matched the description, said Officer Donna Drake with the Kansas City Police Department, which is handling the investigation. That officer attempted to stop him, an exchange of some sort followed, and the officer fired at the man, Drake said. No officers were injured. Only one officer fired a weapon Friday evening, Drake said. At the time of the shooting, Drake said, the man had a firearm in his possession. It was recovered from the scene, she said. After the shooting, Drake said, officers rendered medical aid to the man until other emergency personnel arrived to take over. He was pronounced dead at the scene. A man allegedly armed with a gun was shot and killed Friday evening by a Kansas City, Kansas police officer in the 5200 block of Georgia Avenue. Kansas City Police Department homicide detectives were investigating the use of force. Since fall of 2022, the Kansas City Police Department has investigated use-of-force cases involving Kansas City, Kansas officers as part of an agreement between the two agencies. On Friday night, Kansas City homicide detectives were on scene to look for any potential witnesses. Crime scene personnel were also called out to search the area for evidence a slow and methodical process, Drake said. Once weve released the scene, theres really no going back, Drake said, adding: So were going to take the time that it requires to get everything that we need. Further details, including whether the man threatened the officer with the weapon or precisely where his gun was found, were not disclosed Friday night. Drake said those details were part of the departments ongoing investigation. Story continues The case will be sent to the Wyandotte County District Attorneys Office once KCPD has completed its investigation, Drake said. Under KCKPD policy, police officers who apply deadly force are automatically placed on paid leave pending the outcome of an investigation. A murder suspect was arrested Saturday morning in Oklahoma for fatally stabbing a man in Denton Friday night, according to police. Officers were dispatched to the 3500 block of North Elm Street at around 8 p.m. Friday regarding a male who had been stabbed in the chest at a residence on the 200 block of Benjamin Street in Denton. The man was transported to a local hospital, where he was declared dead as a result of the stab wounds. Detectives interviewed those who witnessed the stabbing and identified Bryan Riojas Avila as the suspect, according to Denton police. Detectives tracked Avila to a mobile home park in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, with assistance from U.S. Marshal resources. With help from the Joint East Texas Fugitive Task Force and local Oklahoma agencies, Avila was taken into custody without incident. Detectives are currently working with the Oklahoma City Police Department to coordinate Avilas extradition back to Denton, police said in a news release. The victims name has not yet been released pending official identification from the Tarrant County Medical Examiners Office. The victim has been identified by family members. To double down or back down. That was Michelle Gilmans choice at her confirmation hearing this week to continue leading the state Department of Administrative Services. She chose to double down on her role as chief obstacle to a public airing of scandal in her department. Her performance reminded the public that our defenses are down. The people who run state government will betray the publics interest when we and they detect the whiff of corruption in the air. The legislatures nomination committee considered Gov. Ned Lamonts renomination of Gilman to continue to lead the Department of Administrative Services. In that role Gilman oversees the beleaguered multi-billion dollar school construction grant program. Federal criminal law enforcement authorities have been (and may still be) investigating school construction grants from when top Lamont adviser Konstantinos Diamantis was in charge of it. In early 2022, the public learned federal investigators had served subpoenas for documents on the Lamont administration the previous October. Gilman, a veteran of state Democratic politics, replaced another top Lamont adviser, Josh Greballe, after he resigned last winter. She promised to commission a swift and thorough audit of the school construction grant program as well as the demolition and hazardous material removal program that was also under scrutiny. Auditors were hired. Their inadequate and incomplete report appeared 10 days before Gilmans hearing. The auditors were paid $240,000 but spoke to no municipal officials who had complained of being pressured and never addressed the demolition programs. Their task became a review of receipts. Gilman embraced the preposterous, giving it everything but a Trumpian perfect seal of approval. Democrats on the legislatures nominations committee did not probe Gilmans role in the risible audit. The public interest possesses no power when matched against the demands of party loyalty. Several Republicans did ask questions about the audit and the scandals that prompted that expensive charade. The whereabouts of $9 million the state provided in 2019 for portable classrooms in Tolland provided a glimpse of the farce Gilman continues to oversee. The town needed the portables for the two years it took to demolish and rebuild the Birch Grove Primary School. When the project was done, the portables were dismantled and, well, nobody seems to know where they went. The Courants Ed Mahony reported a year ago that Diamantis pressed Danbury to buy or lease them for a school building project there, according to an exchange of text messages between Diamantis and a Danbury engineer. Danbury declined. When Tolland state Rep. Tammy Nuccio, a Republican, asked in the hearing about the whereabouts of the missing portables, Gilman said she did not know but would get an answer for Nuccio. The whereabouts of those $9 million and barely used portables ought to have been an urgent subject of inquiry for the auditors. They were not, because Gilman limited the auditors to examining receipts her agency supplied. How could she not have wanted to know before Tuesday? Gilman doubled down with the spirit of Woody Allens Bananas and released a travesty of a mockery of a sham of a mockery of a travesty of two mockeries of a sham. Gilman in the hearing cited the ongoing federal investigation as an excuse not to answer questions. A federal investigation demands public officials provide the public with more information, not less. State government need not be frozen in place while investigators collect and evaluate evidence. Gilman said she has beefed up ethics training in DAS but has not asked if anyone in her department has received federal subpoenas. That is willful ignorance. Nobody asked Gilman how she knows that the federal investigation is continuing. The feds are our only defense against corruption. A succession of U.S. attorneys appointed by presidents of both parties have brought down a governor, a state treasurer, mayors of Bridgeport and Waterbury and state legislators in the past 24 years. U.S. Attorney Vanessa Roberts Avery has been in the job in Connecticut since January of last year. Her profile on the offices website confirms public corruption as a priority. A successful school construction investigation by Avery would serve a critical purpose: closing the moral hazard created by state governments policy of trying to bury the truth. Proof of what the public interest faces at each step of the way came when the legislatures nominations committee voted 8-2 to approve Gilman. Two days later, Nuccio had received no response from Gilman on what happened to those $9 million portable classrooms. In the closely held world of Connecticut government, only Avery can crack that mystery and she must. Kevin F. Rennie of South Windsor is a lawyer and a former Republican state senator and representative. Photograph: Anadolu Agency/Getty Images Its been almost 10 years since Areli Hernandez received her first US government work permit in her mailbox. Hernandez remembers staring at her own photograph and touching the scripted name on the card in disbelief, feeling that a long-sought dream had finally materialized. Related: US court orders review of landmark immigration program for Dreamers But earlier this week, the program that gives temporary deportation relief to Hernandez and hundreds of thousands of other immigrants known as Dreamers, allowing a chance to live and work legally in the US, came under threat once again in a federal court. Nine Republican-led states asked Judge Andrew Hanen in Texas to end the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (Daca) policy, a request that if successful would stop nearly 600,000 immigrants brought to the US as undocumented children from being able to renew their work permits and continue to be protected from potential deportation. I cant plan ahead because my future consists of judges decisions, said Hernandez, who was born in Mexico City and brought to the US at the age of five in the late 1980s. Hernandez was referring to her own Daca status, which is set to expire later this year. I want to make choices that dont depend on my card and an expiration date. The latest filing from the coalition of states led by Texas denounced Daca as unlawful and unconstitutional. The states urged Hanen to strike down the program, which was fortified by the Biden administration as a federal regulation last year after originally being created by the Obama administration in 2012. Since its implementation, Daca has lifted the threat of deportation for approximately 825,000 individuals lacking legal status who were brought to the US by age 16 and before 15 June 2007, have studied in a US school or served in the military and dont have a serious criminal record. The name Dreamers originated with a bill first proposed in the 2001-2002 Congress, the Development, Relief and Education for Alien Minors (Dream) Act, but which did not pass. Obama referred to these so-called Dreamers as young people, who, for all intents and purposes, are Americans. Story continues Daca was meant to be a stopgap until Congress passed immigration reform legislation and put Dreamers like Hernandez on a path to US citizenship. That has not happened and instead the program and Dreamers futures end up batted back and forth by the courts. Last year Kevin McCarthy, now speaker of the House, called amnesty for undocumented immigrants a nonstarter and the only immigration policy his Republican House majority would support was securing the US-Mexico border. Donald Trump had announced as president that he was scrapping Daca. This was blocked by the courts, including the US supreme court in 2020, but still left Dreamers in turmoil. Then-rival presidential candidate Joe Biden pledged that he would change things, saying: As president, I will immediately work to make Daca permanent by sending a bill to Congress on day one of my administration. Biden did so, but immigration reform legislation is still stuck in Congress. Then states hostile to Daca persuaded Hanen in July 2021 to ban new applicants. Hernandez was a student in southern California in the early 2000s, before Daca. She told the Guardian this week: I learned that I couldnt be a social worker because in order to apply for a license I needed a social security number, adding that as an undocumented immigrant: I was also looking at programs that had federal grants that required US citizenship, and again, I couldnt. She worked as a janitor before graduating in psychology from California State University, Northridge, then spent years working under weekly or monthly contracts in jobs unrelated to her degree. It wasnt until Hernandez, 39, became a Daca recipient in 2013 that she landed a full-time position at the non-profit Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights of Los Angeles (Chirla), where she earned enough to do a masters in public administration, and is now director of executive affairs. Many of the almost 600,000 current Dreamers are essential workers who have supported the nations classrooms and hospitals throughout the Covid-19 pandemic. They are also sports stars, award-winning journalists and academics, or successful in countless other walks of life. Dreamers pump billions into the US economy and, according to the progressive thinktank the Center for American Progress, households with Daca recipients pay almost $10bn in taxes each year. When the Dream Act was introduced on Capitol Hill in 2001, Juliana Macedo do Nascimento coincidentally arrived in Buena Park, Orange county, California, from Brazil at the age of 14. Since 2001 at least 11 versions of the Dream Act have been introduced in Congress but never passed. We really see the cruelty of what Texas and the other plaintiffs are asking for, its just anti-immigrant rhetoric, said Macedo do Nascimento, who now lives in Baltimore. Its all part of this narrative that mostly brown people shouldnt be in this country. Her current Daca protections expire in March 2024 and Dreamers once again wait in anxious limbo, first for Hanens ruling then, if he agrees to shut down Daca, the likely Biden appeal all the way back up to the now-conservative-controlled supreme court. Daca recipients are allowed to buy houses, buy cars, and have these long-term debts, said Macedo do Nascimento, 37, referring to the typical American burdens of student loans, mortgages and vehicle financing. But we cant plan a family. We deserve a path to citizenship, it will allow us to have a sense of security. A Mexican soap opera star was sentenced Friday to five years in prison for fatally punching a man in a 2019 road rage incident. Pablo Lyle, 36, was convicted in October of manslaughter in the killing of Juan Ricardo Hernandez, 63, after a traffic incident in Miami. I am very sorry, Lyle said in Spanish to members of Hernandez family in the courtroom. I always pray for him and for you, with all my heart. The incident and ensuing fight were captured on security cameras. Lyles brother-in-law was driving him and other family members to the airport when their car pulled in front of Hernandezs at a stoplight. Hernandez got out of the car and approached Lyles brother-in-law at the drivers window. Lyle and Hernandez then got into an argument. Lyle got out of the car and punched Hernandez in the face. Hernandez, who was unarmed, suffered a traumatic brain injury and died four days later in a hospital. After years of legal wrangling, a jury convicted Lyle of involuntary manslaughter in October. He appealed the verdict but failed. He had faced a maximum 15-year sentence. In addition to the five years in prison, Lyle got eight years of probation, conflict resolution management and 500 hours of community service. With News Wire Services (Reuters) - Tesla Inc raised prices in the United States of its best-selling vehicle, the Model Y, by $1,000 after the government raised the ceiling on the price of crossover electric vehicles eligible for tax credits. Tesla increased the price of the Model Y Long Range to $54,990, and the Model Y Performance to $57,990, an increase of $1,000 each, according to current and previous prices posted on its website. It was the second increase in price for the Model Y Long Range over the past two weeks. The models remain 15% and 17% cheaper, respectively, than they were before Tesla slashed prices last month to stoke demand, before accounting for the $7,500 tax credit buyers now qualify to receive. In a reversal, the Treasury Department ruled on Friday that crossovers like the Model Y would qualify for electric vehicle tax credits as long as they were priced below $80,000. The ceiling for cars, sedans and wagons is lower at $55,000. That represented a win for Tesla, General Motors, Ford and other automakers that had pressed the Biden administration to loosen the vehicle definitions in the implementation of the incentive plan to make more of their lineups eligible. At its previous price, a Tesla buyer of a Model Y would only have been able to add about $1,000 in extra features, such as a tow hitch, before pushing the price above the level at which the tax incentive would apply. Tesla cut prices globally in January in response to signs of slowing demand. It cut prices for a second time in South Korea on Friday. Chief Executive Elon Musk said last month that vehicle orders were roughly double the companys output in January after the first round of price cuts. He said strong demand had prompted the company to make its first small price increase to the Model Y. (Reporting by Rishabh Jaiswal and Akanksha Khushi in Bengaluru; Additional reporting by Hyunjoo Jin; Editing by William Mallard) With six new members, mostly conservatives, the State Board of Education walked back its opposition to school vouchers or similar programs that would use public money for private education. Though largely symbolic, the boards move illustrates the divisive and often political debate heating up at the Legislature about using public money for students private school costs. In an unusual move, the board in a split vote during its Friday meeting removed its earlier stated goal of calling "on the Texas Legislature to reject all attempts to divert public dollars away from public schools in the form of vouchers, an educational savings account or other programs from its previously approved legislative agenda. More:Why charter schools are growing in popularity in Texas and what it means for Austin schools The board in November approved its brief legislative agenda, which also requested raising and funding minimum salaries for school staff by 50% and requiring districts to use board-approved textbooks. The decision to pull the school vouchers opposition passed with eight members in favor and five against. Two members of the 15-member board abstained from voting. The November election brought six new members two Democrats and four Republicans to the education board, delivering a 10-5 advantage to the GOP. Board Chairman Keven Ellis, R-Lufkin, brought the previously approve legislative agenda back before the board, specifically because of the school choice issue, he said during a committee meeting Thursday. I know theres going to be a very nuanced debate over this, Ellis said. Theres going to be a very rich and robust debate over this in the Legislature, so I thought it was appropriate to pull this item and let that rich and robust debate happen. Texas Legislature:Rep. James Talarico proposes $15,000 raises for teachers In the past year, many Republicans have pushed for proposals to use public education funding to give parents vouchers or create accounts that could pay part of the cost for private education. Proponents said such programs would give parents more choice in their childs schooling. Opponents worry diverting money from public schools will harm local districts. Story continues As recently as Tuesday, Gov. Greg Abbott has spoken in favor of expanding education savings accounts. At a Parent Empowerment Night event in Corpus Christi on Tuesday, Abbott said he believes parents are unsatisfied with public schools and claimed educators are pushing a social agenda on students. Gov. Greg Abbott spoke in favor of "school choice" funding during an event Tuesday in Corpus Christi. Mary Elizabeth Castle, director of governmental relations for Texas Values, a faith-based advocacy group, pointed this out to the board Thursday. We have heard from both the lieutenant governor and the governor in their efforts to explore these efforts of school choice, Castle said. As the moment, since both of our state leaders are in favor of this measure, I think its wise to hold off. The decision to revoke the boards opposition to vouchers showed timid support for public education, said District 5 member Rebecca Bell-Metereau, D-San Marcos. If we are only going to suggest what we think is going to win favor with the governor or the Legislature, why dont we just sit around and wait for them to tell us what we need to do? Bell-Metereau said. More:How would the proposed Texas budgets fund public education? Here's what we know. District 13 member Aicha Davis, D-Dallas, questioned whether the board should form its legislative agenda based on the debates that other state leaders have. What happened to the bravery and that stance for public education that happened in November? Davis asked. While Abbott attended Fridays board meeting to swear in new members, he didnt talk about school choice, instead speaking broadly about improving schools. There is an extraordinarily high probability we are going to leave this session providing more money for schools, more money for teachers and making our schools safer, Abbott said. The boards legislative agenda is not binding; it's just a wish list that represents the policy priorities of a majority of the board. This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: Texas education board lifts its opposition to school choice, vouchers Workers in the restaurant industry don't tend to stay in one place for long. This group took notice of their workers who have stuck around. Courtesy of The Smith 2023 is a year of milestones at Food & Wine. There are a few big ones: our print magazine turns 45, were hosting the 40th anniversary of the Food & Wine Classic in Aspen, and we'll be launching our inaugural Global Tastemakers awards to celebrate the best in travel and hospitality. So to say I have celebration on the mind is an understatement. Like many of my colleagues, I worked in the restaurant industry before joining Food & Wine as a full-time staff member. While my time in restaurants is beloved, theres something brands like Food & Wine do better: commemorating milestones and achievements, both those of individuals and our wins as a team. I think we should celebrate restaurant work the same way we do corporate roles. So when I heard a big restaurant group was celebrating dozens of employees with a decade-long tenure, I was immediately intrigued. In late January, I attended a party for The Smith, a New York-based restaurant group specializing in serving brasserie-style fare in massive restaurant spaces. The group shut down their sprawling NoMad location for a blow-out party composed nearly entirely of tenured employees and their loved ones. I was nearly moved to tears and I walked away fired up about how restaurant folks should be treated. :I've Been a Waiter for Almost 35 Years and I'm Proud of It Restaurant Workers Are On the Move Restaurant work is unique compared to other sectors. Workers are paid differently than salaried and hourly employees in other industries, have erratic hours, and fundamentally, no matter how virtuous and thoughtfully run a restaurant is, it's a systemically hard industry for staff and owners alike. Because of these factors, it's a labor force where workers are on the move, jumping between restaurants for shorter stays. At the party I attended, The Smith was celebrating the 15th anniversary of their opening, but also acknowledging 61 employees who have worked at the various locations for at least 10 years. To put this achievement in perspective, according to the National Restaurant Association, 50% of Americas restaurant workforce thats over seven million people stay at a given restaurant for fewer than two years. Between August 2021 and August 2022, the average restaurant employee tenure was only 110 days, according to restaurant management growth blog 7 Shifts. Story continues :The Real Reason There's a Restaurant Worker Shortage Courtesy of The Smith What Does Restaurant Tenure Look Like? For The Smith, creating a place where employees can take on new roles, learn new skills, and work up within the business helps foster an environment where people want to stick around. Weve always prided ourselves on the fact that we do have what we think is a remarkable ability for people to stay with us, grow with us, and grow into different roles at the company, shared Adam Burke, vice president of operations at The Smith. Burke knows firsthand how important an environment which promotes employee development can be, as he was the opening general manager at The Smiths first location in New Yorks East Village in 2007 and moved through different roles as the restaurants grew. Ive continued to grow as The Smith has, he said. :How Getting Fired Fueled This Chefs Career The group of 61 employees celebrating over a decade with the company consisted of a variety of job titles including manager, host, server, prep cook, bartender, chef, dishwasher, operations manager, and more. But these longstanding employees are not just an anomaly. Across the board, The Smith employees stick around much longer compared to industry statistics. Over 10% of The Smith employees, thats well over 100 people between both corporate and restaurant management, have averaged more than five years of tenure. Whats even more staggering is that the average tenure for hourly employees is over two and a half years, compared to an industry average of just over 100 days. How to Celebrate Long Term Employees In an industry like restaurants where employees can come and go, it can take time to build community and for people to get to know you on a personal level. And the last few years havent given us that many opportunities to celebrate with each other. Like many restaurants, COVID brought on a lot of uncertainty for The Smith. Our restaurants are back and are busy again and weve been able to do that by keeping so much of our team intact, said Burke. Weve wanted to celebrate our success and it's amazing to do this with so many people that have been through it all with us, stay with us, and want to build their careers with us. :The Most Essential Job in a Restaurant So what kind of party do you throw? The Smith is known for larger-than-life restaurants in a city known for tiny and cramped spaces. The night of the celebration, The Smith filled its NoMad location with fellow employees, and asked each of the 61 employees being honored to invite friends and family. The room was filled with warmth. Colleagues made personal speeches about one another. People laughed, danced, and ate and drank copiously. It was a celebration of impressive people, as well as a celebration of community and of a company able to cultivate something special. Maybe youre a regular at a restaurant and have rapport with a server, bartender or host, ask them how long theyve been working there, and remember to celebrate their achievement. Next time youre out to eat, think about all the people working who might not be visible to you at that moment and find a way to honor their work, too. (iStock) A womans bare feet poke out from a blue blanket. The TV is on and her toenails are neatly painted pink. Alright guys, she says in a Southern drawl, so this is where were at. Her feet are twitching. She throws the blanket off and raises her legs, and they shake like a fish out of water. The caption simply reads: Thanks Pfizer. This is one of many videos that have recently surfaced on the internet that, according to those posting them, show severe all body convulsions supposedly caused by Covid-19 vaccines. A number have received incredibly high engagement, despite being shared by the same handful of accounts that seem to share little else. The same woman who posted the feet video, for example, has also shared others where she describes her vaccine injury as my personal earthquake, and one where she staggers out of a hospital bathroom, lock-kneed and juddering. At the time of writing, that video has over 13 million views on Twitter, and has been widely shared across Facebook and, more concerningly, to far-right and QAnon-adjacent groups on Telegram. Away from these extremist circles however, the consensus seems to be that the Pfizer shakes are obvious fakes intentional, attention-seeking hoaxes with conservative, anti-vax political aims. Not symptoms of vaccine injury but conspiracy theory. Indeed, context has been added under the Thanks Pfizer feet post that, as Twitter puts it, readers thought people might want to know. This states that spasms have not been demonstrated to be a proven side effect of the Covid-19 vaccines. Over 11 billion vaccine doses have been administered across 184 countries and this has never been found. The context box also adds that although the womans shaking appears very hard, even uncontrollable, the camera remains still and level Predictably perhaps, the internet took this womans videos and ran with them. Dua Lipa shaking her hips on stage with the caption Thanks Pfizer. Mark from Peep Show dancing at Rainbow Rhythms. Within days even the official Duolingo account was in on it, posting a GIF of the green avian linguist twerking on a conference table. Yet, while the general reaction has been to make a big joke out of this vaccine injury content, there is also something deeply unsettling about it. What is really going on in those videos? Are the people making them fakers, or are they genuinely convinced they have been injured, perhaps irreparably? Are the shakes they are experiencing real and involuntary, whatever their cause? Where does the line lie between misinformation, conspiracy and hypochondria? Perhaps most importantly, how can anyone tell if someone is really ill, believes they are, or are just saying it for attention? Story continues A major reason why it can be so tricky to definitively judge the veracity of symptoms shared online is simply because, from a medical perspective, casting any such judgement would be dubious at best, and at worst unethical. Clinical psychologist Dr Lauren Kerwin, for example, stresses that she cannot speak to the motivation of those making the Pfizer shakes videos, because she has never spoken to them nor personally met or assessed them. I also cannot speak to whether the vaccines are causing these tremors or not, Kerwin states. It would be unethical for me to diagnose these individuals. Similarly, Dr David Veale, a consultant psychiatrist at the Maudsley Hospital in south London and co-author of Overcoming Health Anxiety, indicates that the people seeking online validation with these videos need proper evaluation by both neurologists and psychiatrists. Yet, he also says that while these shakes could be extremely rare, unrecognised side effects of the vaccine, this is unlikely. Some could be an unrelated problem, he suggests, some may be staged, or others may be a somatic manifestation of distress. The medical community calls this somatisation your body manifesting what the mind holds to be irrefutably true, Dr Asif Munaf tells me. In other words, the mind can have powerful effects on the body, and a person may be experiencing symptoms even if they do not stem from a diagnosed medical condition. As Dr Munaf puts it, the mind is the most powerful instrument known to us. Are there genuine shakes? Well, Dr Munaf says, if you strongly believe the vaccine causes shakes, then you could theoretically develop them as you have convinced yourself of this causation. Racing heart, sweating, shakes and tremors, breathing difficulties, tight chest, are all signs of increased anxiety, and can easily be mistaken for something else Counselling Directory member Lauren Calladine Of course, the fact that somatisation is possible doesnt mean that some people may not be intentionally feigning symptoms. Indeed, there is a well-recognised and widely studied disorder that spins around this: factitious disorder, previously known as Munchausen syndrome. As Dr Kerwin explains, this is a condition in which a person intentionally produces or feigns symptoms of an illness in order to assume the sick role and gain attention and sympathy from others. Yet, while this may sound like plain old manipulation, Dr Kerwin cautions that factitious disorder should be regarded as a legitimate, if misunderstood condition, often stemming from underlying psychological issues such as a history of abuse or neglect, low self-esteem, and a need for control. Far from being a case of lying or making stuff up, factitious disorder is a very complex condition that requires extremely careful clinical assessment, according to consultant clinical psychologist Dr Kirren Schnack. The problem is that in cases of factitious disorder, as Dr Schnack notes, the patients prognosis is poor, as theyre mostly unwilling to accept the diagnosis. In this situation, where clinical assessment is either not available or its findings outright rejected, it seems many people turn to the internet for validation. Indeed, Counselling Directory member Lauren Calladine suggests that, in recent years, due to the ease of social media giving such vulnerable people a new platform for attention, a new trend has developed called Munchhausens by internet. The syndrome is also known as fictitious disorder, but it is of course intrinsically hard to prove or disprove. Yet, many therapists and psychiatrists now believe, like Calladine, that the instant gratification someone experiencing this disorder can get from likes, comments and shares may drive them to create a whole image or personality based on chronic illnesses. The question remains, however: how can anyone possibly know whether someone is creating a personality based on chronic illnesses, or desperately seeking support and connection online while genuinely suffering? In a society that routinely dismisses and mischaracterises both chronic and mental illnesses, the spectres of both factitious and fictitious disorder loom large. After all, many people with chronic illnesses are often accused of making up or exaggerating their symptoms, while those with anxiety disorders are told their condition is all in their head. This accusation is particularly damaging, and part of what makes the whole issue of faking symptoms a minefield, as the supposed line between mental and physical disorders has always been so blurry that its basically non-existent. As Calladine stresses, many symptoms of anxiety are the same as many health conditions. Racing heart, sweating, shakes and tremors, breathing difficulties, tight chest, are all signs of increased anxiety, and can easily be mistaken for something else. This brings us back to somatisation, as the more anxious you become, the more these symptoms will grip you, and the more convinced you will become that you are experiencing the illness you fear. Indeed, Calladine describes health anxiety as one of the most vicious, debilitating forms of anxiety. Compulsively checking the internet for health advice and information should, in this case, be seen as a symptom in itself. As Dr Schnack emphasises, people stricken with health anxiety may body check, research the internet, read extensively about serious health conditions [and] have repeated medical investigations. In extreme cases, patients may become so convinced that theyll die soon of the disease theyre concerned about, that they make plans for their death, and discuss these with loved ones. Like Calladine, Dr Schnack stresses health anxiety is a truly terrifying condition for the sufferer, but she also stresses that, with medical and psychological support, it is one that can be treated and overcome. The problem, once again, is that the overwhelming mixture of information and misinformation being shared online can create vicious cycles those with health anxiety turning to the internet for reassurance and instead finding new sources of terror. Dr Babak Ashrafi from Superdrug Online Doctor, certainly suggests the internet is contributing to a health anxiety boom. Theres no doubt that we are seeing ever-rising levels of self-diagnosis and health anxiety in recent years, he says. While its useful for patients to have some idea of what they think is causing concern, he argues it can be very challenging when professional medical diagnosis differs from a patients own internet-sourced self-diagnosis, as it causes mistrust and delays in treatment. This puts added pressure on an already stretched NHS, and creates another vicious cycle. These same pressures, Dr Ashrafi says, can in turn mean that the only place patients have to turn to is online. Indeed, Superdrug Online Doctors research showed that for one in five people in the UK, social media and internet posts are the first port of call when looking for health information, with people more likely to view health content on social media than book a doctors appointment. The person is trying to get more information, Dr Veale also notes, but where there is uncertainty it just takes you down a rabbit hole of more doubts and distress. Armed with internet information, he suggests, patients who do eventually seek medical examinations may be more likely to dismiss any psychological understanding of the problem. Sometimes the belief is so strongly held it is regarded as delusional. This certainly seems to be the case with a number of the people currently sharing Pfizer shakes videos. Wired recently reported that one woman who posted a video on Facebook of herself shuddering on what looks like a hospital bed, has since declared that doctors have indicated her shaking stems from conversion disorder a mental condition triggered by extreme stress. In a Facebook post on January 12 however, she said she remained unconvinced that stress was the cause of her condition, and has since made multiple posts about using CBD oil and detoxing to manage her symptoms. When medical expertise isnt believed, wellness industry pseudoscience can easily rush in to fill the gap. Keeping people anxious and delusional can, after all, be profitable. Navigating illness and the internet is, clearly, a knotty subject. Yet one thing it is important not to lose sight of in discussions about medical misinformation, pseudoscience and conspiracy is the real suffering of people whose experiences and symptoms dont fit into easy categorisations. Bryan Blears is an NHS worker and a vaccine supporter. Following his second Pfizer vaccine in July 2021, he reports suffering from intense chest pains which have resulted in about a dozen A&E attendances, numerous cardiology follow-ups and no diagnosis. After contracting Covid in December 2022, this got worse. I have crushing chest pain on the left side almost every day, he says. Despite undergoing a chest x-ray, numerous ECGs, blood tests for [raised levels of] troponin [which might indicate heart injury] and D-dimer [proteins formed after a blood clot dissolves], an echocardiogram and a treadmill stress test, so far, there have been no answers. Blears describes each day as a rollercoaster of emotions, as he constantly flips between the rational, medical-led approach and the anxiety-filled, internet-fuelled irrationalism of there being many vaccine-related deaths, which I fear becoming a part of. To give you an indication as to how seriously this has disrupted my life, I have said my goodbyes and written a will, despite being 32 years old. What are my real symptoms, Blears asks, which I do believe are extremely rare but genuine? His greatest concern is being lumped in as part of a group of conspiracy theorists. Ultimately, of course, this is a fear of being dismissed and disbelieved. I think that these groups have caused real damage to the small number of people who may genuinely be adversely affected by their vaccines, Blears stresses, because we will not be taken seriously while they continue to push their content. The line between truth, belief, and lies may always remain blurry. Sometimes we struggle to accept that our bodies can produce sensations without there always being a clear medical explanation, or disease pathology present, Dr Schnack concludes. People want certainty, and sometimes there isnt any. Even when a business is losing money, it's possible for shareholders to make money if they buy a good business at the right price. For example, although software-as-a-service business Salesforce.com lost money for years while it grew recurring revenue, if you held shares since 2005, you'd have done very well indeed. But while the successes are well known, investors should not ignore the very many unprofitable companies that simply burn through all their cash and collapse. So, the natural question for Gabriel Resources (CVE:GBU) shareholders is whether they should be concerned by its rate of cash burn. In this report, we will consider the company's annual negative free cash flow, henceforth referring to it as the 'cash burn'. First, we'll determine its cash runway by comparing its cash burn with its cash reserves. View our latest analysis for Gabriel Resources When Might Gabriel Resources Run Out Of Money? You can calculate a company's cash runway by dividing the amount of cash it has by the rate at which it is spending that cash. As at September 2022, Gabriel Resources had cash of CA$7.0m and no debt. In the last year, its cash burn was CA$8.9m. So it had a cash runway of approximately 9 months from September 2022. To be frank, this kind of short runway puts us on edge, as it indicates the company must reduce its cash burn significantly, or else raise cash imminently. You can see how its cash balance has changed over time in the image below. How Is Gabriel Resources' Cash Burn Changing Over Time? Gabriel Resources didn't record any revenue over the last year, indicating that it's an early stage company still developing its business. So while we can't look to sales to understand growth, we can look at how the cash burn is changing to understand how expenditure is trending over time. Given the length of the cash runway, we'd interpret the 47% reduction in cash burn, in twelve months, as prudent if not necessary for capital preservation. Admittedly, we're a bit cautious of Gabriel Resources due to its lack of significant operating revenues. So we'd generally prefer stocks from this list of stocks that have analysts forecasting growth. Can Gabriel Resources Raise More Cash Easily? While Gabriel Resources is showing a solid reduction in its cash burn, it's still worth considering how easily it could raise more cash, even just to fuel faster growth. Companies can raise capital through either debt or equity. One of the main advantages held by publicly listed companies is that they can sell shares to investors to raise cash and fund growth. By comparing a company's annual cash burn to its total market capitalisation, we can estimate roughly how many shares it would have to issue in order to run the company for another year (at the same burn rate). Since it has a market capitalisation of CA$205m, Gabriel Resources' CA$8.9m in cash burn equates to about 4.3% 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 Gabriel Resources' Cash Burn? On this analysis of Gabriel Resources' cash burn, we think its cash burn relative to its market cap was reassuring, while its cash runway has us a bit worried. While we're the kind of investors who are always a bit concerned about the risks involved with cash burning companies, the metrics we have discussed in this article leave us relatively comfortable about Gabriel Resources' situation. On another note, we conducted an in-depth investigation of the company, and identified 4 warning signs for Gabriel Resources (2 shouldn't be ignored!) that you should be aware of before investing here. Of course, you might find a fantastic investment by looking elsewhere. So take a peek at this free list of interesting companies, 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. Join A Paid User Research Session Youll receive a US$30 Amazon Gift card for 1 hour of your time while helping us build better investing tools for the individual investors like yourself. Sign up here Over 3,000 thousand volunteers per day applied for entry into the Offensive Guard In particular, 3,086 citizens applied at Centers for the Provision of Administrative Services, of which 527 submitted applications. 2,049 questionnaires were submitted to the target website storm.mvs.gov.ua. A total of 480 calls were received to the hotline for consultations on the entry and activity of assault brigades of the Ministry of Internal Affairs. Read also: National Guard downs Russian Su-25 near Bakhmut Read also: Service dog finds Russian UAV shot down by National Guard, once repaired to be used by Ukraine Members of the public can apply to join the Offensive Guard by submitting an application on the website storm.mvs.gov.ua or at a Center for the Provision of Administrative Services. Previously, acting head of the Ministry of Internal Affairs, Ihor Klymenko, announced the beginning of the formation of assault brigades of the Offensive Guard to liberate captured Ukrainian territories and strengthen the Defense Forces. In Kharkiv Oblast, it was decided to create eight assault brigades of the Offensive Guard. Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine Photo Illustration by Elizabeth Brockway/The Daily Beast Social media is flooded with beautiful hotel bathtubs. With views overlooking the city, or in the heart of the jungle, or even filled with flowers in Bali, its easy to get swept up in bathtub wanderlust. And while I often fall victim to these images, one thing always pulls me back to reality: the idea that these tubs, while beautiful, are likely disgusting. My interest in hotel bathtubs began two summers ago, when I was in Alaska. In the small town of Valdez, I checked in at my hotel, and noticed a sign, with a little fish on it, perched atop the front desk. In a computer-generated cursive font, it read, Please Do Not Process Fish in the Bathtub. At first, I thought it was a gagI had spent so much time around silly signs like that in gift shops that I didnt think much of it. But a few minutes later, the front desk manager pushed a contract printed on formal letterhead in front of me. It was an agreement, promising that I wouldnt clean, gut, or store any fish I caught in the mini fridge or in the bathtub of my hotel room. I signed immediately and never went anywhere near the bathtub during my stay. But I couldnt stop thinking about normal hotel bathtubs (read: hotel bathtubs not near fishing spots). Are they filled with germs? Are they gross? And, perhaps most importantly, if they are dirty, is it potentially dangerous to take a bath? It turns out, its difficult to say how dirty these tubs are. One study suggests that many bathtubs have a biofilm that only comes off with intense scrubbing. Another study found that 81 percent of surfaces sampled in hotels had fecal mattersuggesting that perhaps bathtubs arent the grossest thing in your hotel room. Another suggested leaving your luggage in the hotel bathtub to avoid bed bugs because they prefer dark crevices where they can hide properly, and these are unlikely to be found in a bathroom. Then, theres the category of wellness tubs and pools. In 2010, a woman died from a disease she contracted in a wellness hot tub. Between 2000 and 2014, hotel pools were cited as the most frequent locations for chlorine-resistant bacteria infections, according to the CDC. Story continues Despite research on ways to improve hygienic practices in hotels, one cant help but be concerned about unchlorinated hotel bathtubs, if chlorinated pools pose such a problem. Naturally, the debate on whether or not to soak has boiled over to TikTok, with hundreds of videos and comments, ranging from yall are really getting in hotel bathtubs? to Im not comfortable sleeping on the beds you guys are taking baths? to a rogue conspiracy theory about Whitney Houston avoiding bathtubs (that is worth watching if youre a fan). Maddie Mooney, a 25-year-old from Cleveland, Ohio, says that bathtubs are one of the most disgusting spots in a hotel roomif not the worst. Her hotel bathtub phobia began after a particular stay in a hotel where the towels had a gross, brown, amber like stain on them. She mentioned shes stayed in several hotels where the bathtub would backflood with gross, off color water, or where she could see mold in the grout, or grime and dirt still present, and sometimes even a hair or two. Mooney didnt want to give up baths for good. After all, a bath can be a relaxing part of a vacation. She turned to Amazon for a solution and found one: bathtub liners. She playfully calls them tub condoms, in her video, and they work as youd expect them to. The plastic sheets just cover the bathtub, allowing water to fill the plastic, so you and the water never touch the physical tub. When you think about it, the waters clean, so you just need something to cover the bottom and sides of the bathtub, she tells me. Theres another problem, though. Many hotel bathtubs, at least the ones worth spending time in, are much closer to hot tubs. They come with rocketing jets that massage your back, and melt away the pain of a long day. TikTok is filled with videos of water gurgling from these jets and turning brown, as well as guests taking matters into their own hands. Some have tried spraying the jets with cleaning solution before filling it up, while others have resorted to a more intense method. Think of it as a bath bomb that cleans the tub instead of you: Guests are instead turning up the jets and adding a dishwasher tablet to the bath to clean their hotel tubs before using them. Margaret Bienert, 32, from Los Angeles, has never gone this far. Shes a travel influencer, whose niche is adult-only hotels, and has stayed in some pretty spectacular looking hotel bathtubsfrom one particularly intriguing champagne coupe tub to a plethora of heart-shaped tubs across the country. Recently, she posted a video encouraging others to overcome gross bathtubs. She admits that at first when they started staying in these hotels and using the tubs she was more careful than she is today. In her experience as a hotel maid, she admits they barely spent any time cleaning the bathtubs. Bienert recalls one room she stayed in where the person before them must have had a spray on tan. There was just a brown film when I turned the water on in the bath, and it reminded me of showering with spray on tanner, she says. And yet despite these experiences, Bienert remains optimistic about hotel bathtubs. Were going to a lot of sexy hotels, where a lot of the tubs are seeing a lot of activity. I asked a doctor how worried I should be about catching a disease, she says. According to Bienert, the doctor said it would be shocking if that was how she contracted an STD. One study asserts that there is no harm in hotel bathtubs, even if they are gross. They just recommend not drinking the water. And experts agree here. Erica Hartmann, an Associate Professor in the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering at Northwestern University told The Daily Beast, When you first get into a hotel room, there are probably microbes left over from the last guest to stay there. But the longer youre in the room, the more the rooms microbes reflect your own. Hartmann added that despite the fact that there are microbes despite regular cleaning, they likely arent worth worrying about too much: The most important thing to remember is that the vast majority of microbes will not make you sick, she said. Perhaps, if these dirty bathtubs wont make you actually sick, then Bienerts final words are worth living by: Its how you frame it, she says, You can either be grossed out by people doing nasty stuff or you can be the one doing nasty stuff yourself. Read more at The Daily Beast. Get the Daily Beast's biggest scoops and scandals delivered right to your inbox. Sign up now. Stay informed and gain unlimited access to the Daily Beast's unmatched reporting. Subscribe now. Front lines I think we should prepare for very hard, very bloody battles. In fact, the Wests decision to provide Ukraine with the weapons we need, in particular armored vehicles and a number of other types of arms, is connected with their conviction that Ukraine is capable of winning a military victory, while at the same time that Russia is not inclined to withdraw its troops from the territory of Ukraine, nor to enter into any agreements. In fact, a certain part of the American elite (and not only American, but also Western elites, like the Germans and French) sincerely believed that some negotiations were possible. And when it became clear that both sides were very determined, it became clear that it is necessary to provide Ukraine with the weapons that would allow it to retain the initiative as soon as possible, and, if possible, to develop a strategic offensive that would allow it to inflict a military defeat upon Russia. The problem is that there is not enough time. In fact, both sides now have similar problems tied to the need to form new units, replenish their ammunition, and train their personnel. And here the question is who will handle this task faster. Read also: Russia not yet geared up enough for new offensive in Zaporizhzhya Oblast The task is quite difficult. And it is much more complicated for us, because we receive Western models which are both very different and quite complex. So, whoever will be first needs to form a mass of resources needed for an offensive, and the side which better chooses the direction of their main thrust will actually have the advantage. There are many options for where to wage these fierce battles, and they are varied. For example, there is the activation of Russian forces on the Zaporizhzhya front, rather on the border of the Zaporizhzhya and Donetsk fronts, meaning the attack on Vuhledar. It is now difficult to say whether this is a very large-scale combat reconnaissance or whether it is the beginning of a very large strategic offensive. Story continues Read also: Russia is preparing a new offensive: Where they are coming from and what to expect The Russians need a strategic victory. On the other hand, sober Russian experts say that given the current state of Russia's military-industrial complex and the Russian army, as well as its size and technical equipment, it will be very difficult for them to inflict a strategic defeat on Ukraine. That is, it is unlikely they will be able to strike the sort of blow that would end in the defeat of a large part of the Ukrainian army with significant territorial seizures. Therefore, the more sober Russian politicians believe that Russia's offensive will most likely be limited to certain tactical directions. This would mean an attempt to further advance on Donbas, ideally with access to Slovyansk and Kramatorsk. But for this it is first necessary to take Bakhmut and Siversk. Or they could still try to advance on a large scale in the direction of Zaporizhzhya, not so much as to threaten Zaporizhzhya and Dnipro as to push Ukrainian troops away from the so-called land corridor that connects Russia through the occupied territories with occupied Crimea. By my feelings, February will be a revealing, very defining time It is very difficult to get into the head of the Russian General Staff. So far, for example, if we analyze the numbers and equipment of the forces in the north, there is nothing to suggest that the main blow will be delivered from there. But theoretically, considering that Russia has accumulated a certain amount of resources from mobilization and is now very intensively replenishing its ammunition, an offensive from there is also possible. At least I wouldn't rule it out. It is not foreseeable at this point. There is yet another possible option not so much from a military point of view, but from a political point of view, which may be rather attractive to the Russians. This is another attempt to attack Kharkiv. This is due to the small distance between this city and the Russian border, and the peculiarities of Belgorod, where there is an opportunity to raise reserves, build warehouses, and the availability of highways and railways. In addition, it would represent a political victory if the Russians succeed, relatively speaking, in capturing a large regional center that is one of the symbols of Ukraine. This could be a political victory. I would outline the following scenarios. It is very difficult for me to say which of them the Russians will choose. The Russians, like us, have huge problems with 152-mm and 122-mm shells, especially with the 122s. This is the caliber which the Gvozdika self-propelled gun and the D-30 howitzer fire. At one point, during the so-called Serdyukov reforms, the Russians practically chopped up the lines for the production of these shells. I know that, for example, from the staff of certain units, they have generally withdrawn artillery systems that fire this projectile. Instead, they have enough industrial capacity where they can produce 152 mm shells. Six Russian artillery systems fire them at once. They are now ramping up production at a very accelerated pace, but they are having problems. They have problems with qualified personnel. This is connected with both mobilization and the outflow of people abroad. And they have certain problems with new equipment and critical materials. A projectile is not as simple a thing as it seems. Therefore, they are partially using, first and foremost, the arsenal and storage bases in Belarus. They have actually looted them already. The Belarusians are being used as a donor for replenishing losses of both ammunition and armored vehicles, primarily tanks. In Belarus, if I am not mistaken, there were two tank armies stationed. There are a huge number of tanks in warehouses. And the Russians are using these opportunities. Read also: Russian missile strike on Zaporizhzhya kills 3, wounds 7 There remain countries that can supply them with ammunition of the appropriate caliber. This also applies to the countries in Russias orbit in Europe (which we will not name), and countries that do not advertise their aid, but can theoretically provide such aid. These are first and foremost North Korea and Iran. There is no concrete confirmation that they are supplying ammunition to Russia, but there are some signs that this is taking place. For us, it is indeed a huge challenge. Who will be the first to prepare for an offensive? President of the European Council Charles Michel recently said that the next weeks will be decisive for Ukraine and for the world. Other Western officials are offering different terms and different options. Both Russia and Ukraine are forcing preparations. Both we and they are creating not just new military units, but new formations. We are talking about large formations that have to take on large-scale tasks. Large formations, on the one hand, have great power. On the other hand, these units are much more difficult to operate than, tactical groups like a battalion-tactical group. It requires much greater coordination, much greater clarity of interaction, and better use of the rules of combined arms combat, when you have everyone working systematically from intelligence to artillery, from aviation to tanks. This is when everyone knows their maneuvers and their role in the system. This is now being done at an accelerated pace. But it feels like we and the Russians are running out of time to do this in the coming weeks. Each side could take a risk, trying to strike before the enemy has prepared for it. Here the question is both of time and confidence in these forces, or at least those parts that have been created, being ready for large-scale use. Again, both we and the Russians have big problems related to the fact that a large part of those reserves that were planned for a large-scale offensive were used during the battles near Bakhmut. This also applies to part of our reserves, which, unfortunately, had to be used in order to change the situation; and the Russians, who during both assault and flanking operations had to use part of, for example, their airborne troops that were planned for other operations, in particular for large-scale offensive operations. Read also: Three lessons from Ramstein. About Germany, tanks and offensive weapons for Ukraine Therefore, I would not take the risk of saying exactly when it will happen. By my feelings, February will be a revealing, very defining time. While it is possible that it will be postponed to a later date, it seems to me that it will still be February. Firstly, there will still be enough frozen ground: this is important for the offensive not in all sectors, but in the vast majority it really matters for machinery, especially wheeled. Secondly, this is another make-it-or-break-it moment for the Russians, because of the anniversary of the attack and their aggression. They need to demonstrate some successes by this date. They subordinate military goals to political ones. This is despite the fact that the political goals are not really clearly announced and explained to the population, but these things are of great importance to them. Therefore, I would say that the big counteroffensive will most likely take place in February. But there are options here. There are a lot of arguments, a lot of caveats, a lot of circumstances, and I cannot know them all for sure. This is known only to the people who plan these operations and who are carrying out this strategic plan. Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine It was a sunny afternoon last October and a funeral was taking place in Brighton Heights. A video stream from inside the church shows people ducking for cover as shots pop and once again -- another safe place was gone. Accused of pulling the triggers are two teenage boys, Shawn Davis and Hezekiah Nixon. But records reveal, as young as they are, this was hardly the first crime they had been accused of. Take Shawn Davis for instance. A jury convicted him of trying to shoot a store clerk. Fortunately, the gun jammed, but while he was out on bond for that crime, shots were fired inside the Ross Park Mall. Davis was accused of firing a gun inside the mall. A judge dropped the charges, citing an identification issue, despite Davis testing positive for gunshot residue on his hands. Davis spent seven months in jail for the incident with the store clerk and then was supposed to be at home with an ankle monitor on that bright day in October. Previous coverage: Target 11: Allegheny County Courts responds to criticism over electronic monitoring As for Nixon, he had previously been charged for firing a gun into a crowd of people. His punishment? As an underage teen, his records are closed, but sources say for the incident, a judge sentenced him to an after-school program, making him available to join his friend outside that funeral in Brighton Heights. Allegheny County District Attorney Stephen Zappala says when it comes to teen crime here, what happened is all part of a frustrating and frightening pattern. The kid that shot at the funeral, hurt people at the funeral, he just came in and came out, Zappala tells Channel 11. Somebody released him. Sometimes they go in and go back out 24 hours later. PREVIOUS COVERAGE: 6 people injured after shooting outside funeral in Pittsburghs Brighton Heights 2 teenagers facing attempted homicide charges in connection with Brighton Heights funeral shooting Channel 11 Exclusive: Surveillance video shows moment gunfire erupted during funeral Officials find gun in river matching description of firearm used in Brighton Heights shooting DOWNLOAD the Channel 11 News app for breaking news alerts Story continues In short, Zappala said the police take dangerous kids off the streets and the judges let them right back out because they often have nowhere to put them -- until they do something really horrible. So, whats going on? Its called a case of noble intentions. After one too many scandals, the state of Pennsylvania decided to clean up the juvenile justice system. Part of that was cutting funding, resulting in the closing of more than a dozen detention centers across the state. By 2021, that created a 79% reduction in secure detention for teens. In Allegheny County, that number was an almost 90% reduction in detention beds. The closure of the Shuman Juvenile Detention Center eliminated beds, forcing authorities to even send some of them out of state to Steubenville, Ohio. Jefferson Countys Sheriff Fred Abdalla Jr. used to run the Jefferson County Juvenile Detention Center. It doesnt matter where a child is from, Abdalla tells Channel 11. Anything we can do to help a child regardless of where theyre from is a good thing. If a bed is available in Jefferson County, Ohio, a teen from Allegheny County could be sent there and they dont see a revolving door of a violent juvenile being released. The juvenile judge considers the public and public safety and its held in high regard, Abdalla added. The judge certainly isnt going to put a juvenile back in a situation where he feels it will be unsafe for the juvenile and he wont release juveniles he feels are a threat to go out and do something to harm the public. Its important to note, Jefferson Countys population is about 18% of Allegheny Countys, so there are far fewer juveniles committing crimes. We spoke with Robert Tomassini, who is the executive director of the Juvenile Court Judges Commission. He tells Channel 11 that the shortage of detention centers for teens is a public safety concern and that with not enough beds, it forces judges to risk releasing an already violent juvenile so they can hold an even more dangerous one. Download the FREE WPXI News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Channel 11 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch WPXI NOW I visited bars and lounges at Disney's Polynesian, Grand Floridian, and Contemporary resorts. Timothy Moore Disney World's resorts are full of unique bars and lounges, especially along the monorail loop. Daring adults can tackle the iconic Disney World monorail bar crawl for a day of 21-and-over magic. We stopped at places in the Polynesian, Grand Floridian, and Contemporary resorts. Drinking around the world at Epcot may be the most popular bar crawl at Disney World, but it's not the only one. There are three resorts along the Disney World monorail. Timothy Moore Most people know about the fan-made tradition of drinking "around the world" at Epcot's World Showcase, but there's another drinking experience at Disney World. If you're in search of a few good cocktails, you can take part in the (unofficial) monorail bar crawl by hitting up bars at each of the three resorts located along the loop: Grand Floridian, Polynesian, and Contemporary. There are multiple lounge options at each hotel, and seating is first-come, first-served no reservations necessary. My friend and I tried the resort bar crawl on our recent trip to Disney World. Here's where we stopped and what we ordered. We spent $11 on beer at Tambu Lounge. Tambu Lounge is located inside the Polynesian Resort. Timothy Moore We started our day at Disney's Polynesian Village Resort. Famous for its bungalows, frequent Lilo and Stitch sightings, and pineapple Dole Whip, this resort is also home to several great watering holes. Next door to the table-service restaurant 'Ohana (one of the best dining experiences at Disney, in my opinion) is Tambu Lounge. We started here because the lounge opens at 8:30 a.m. Kona Big Wave beer from Tambu Lounge. Timothy Moore Some of the Disney lounges are only open in the evenings, so we thought we'd get an early start. We didn't roll up until noon, but even so, we wanted to start light. I ordered a Kona Big Wave ($11) on draft, and my friend Cat opted for coffee at the nearby Kona Cafe. She knew she'd need energy for the long crawl ahead. Tambu Lounge is a nice spot with views of Magic Kingdom across the Seven Seas Lagoon. If you're waiting for your reservation at 'Ohana, it's ideal for grabbing a quick beer or cocktail. We spent $48 on cocktails at Steakhouse 71. Story continues Steakhouse 71 is located inside the Contemporary Resort. Timothy Moore We had lunch reservations at Steakhouse 71 at Disney's Contemporary Resort at 1:15 p.m. This was a little inconvenient because we had to ride all the way around the monorail loop to get to the Contemporary. The resort monorail only goes clockwise something to consider when making your plan. If you don't have a reservation, there's also the Steakhouse 71 Lounge, which has light bites and all the same cocktails you can get in the restaurant. I tried two cocktails here, starting with the Citrus Blossom Groves. Citrus Blossom Groves and Last Concourse cocktails at Steakhouse 71. Timothy Moore The Citrus Blossom Groves ($13.50) cocktail is a nod to the citrus trees of Kissimmee, Florida, where Disney World was built. Despite the fruity name and appearance, this was a bitter drink and strong. Cat ordered the Last Concourse ($14.50), a nod to the monorail concourse inside the Contemporary. This was the sweetest drink we tried at the restaurant. I also ordered a Curious cold brew. Curious cold brew cocktail at Steakhouse 71. Timothy Moore The Curious cold brew ($14.50) blended bourbon and Joffrey's Coffee. I was hoping the coffee would give me a boost for the rest of the day, but the drink was much heavier on the bourbon than the caffeine. We spent $44 on themed drinks at Trader Sam's Grog Grotto. Trader Sam's Grog Grotto is located at the Polynesian Resort. Timothy Moore The most coveted spot on the monorail bar crawl is easily Trader Sam's Grog Grotto. The wacky and weird Tiki-themed bar at the Polynesian is in a small space with limited capacity. It opens at 3 p.m., but you can put your name on a waiting list an hour early. The only problem is you might have to wait several hours to get called if you're called at all. As if by Disney magic, we got a seat here early in the day. Trader Sam's is a pretty quirky place. Timothy Moore We didn't think we'd actually get in, but we managed to be among the first on the list. We were called into the bar mere minutes after it opened. At Trader Sam's, you'll find all kinds of quirky drinks. Ordering the two-person Uh-Oa ($26) involves lively chants from the bartenders, awakening the Tiki Goddess up near the ceiling. Ordering the Polynesian Pearl ($22) means bartenders will birth pearls (souvenir drink cups) from a giant clam, and the Zombie ($17.50) cocktail is delivered by an undead server. Multiple drinks trigger winds, volcanic eruptions, and even water effects (bartenders squirting you with a spray bottle). It's the most fun place to grab a drink at Disney World. Our drinks came with lots of fanfare. Krakatoa Punch cocktail from Trader Sam's. Timothy Moore We ordered the Krakatoa punch ($17.50), resulting in a volcanic eruption, and a Mosquito mojito ($15.50). Our table companions awoke the Tiki Goddess with a round of Uh-Oas. We spent $19 on a cocktail at Enchanted Rose Lounge. Enchanted Rose Lounge is located inside the Grand Floridian Resort. Timothy Moore Later in the evening, Cat and I found ourselves at the Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, where there's a "Beauty and the Beast"-themed lounge called Enchanted Rose. There are so many great details in the lounge. Enchanted Rose is themed after "Beauty and the Beast." Timothy Moore If you go, wander into the different rooms. You'll really feel like you've stepped into a Disney-princess film. It's also a great spot to grab light bites if you need something to soak up all the booze from the day. I got a floral drink to match the vibes. Floral Bitter Beauty cocktail from Enchanted Rose Lounge. Timothy Moore It'd been a long day of drinking, so we shared the Floral Bitter Beauty ($17.50), a gin-based cocktail. The drink was nice, but it was the elegant atmosphere that set this place apart. We ended the night by dropping $38 on exclusive drinks at A Villains Lair. A Villains Lair is a Disney Vacation Club-exclusive lounge in Bay Lake Tower. Timothy Moore We had a surprise ending to our monorail bar crawl. Our friends are Disney Vacation Club (DVC) members, which means they get access to an exclusive lounge at the Contemporary's Bay Lake Tower. It's called the Top of the World Lounge A Villains Lair, and only DVC members (and their guests) can visit. When they asked us if we wanted to meet up with them for the experience, we immediately said yes, even though it meant going back to the Contemporary. As the highest point on Disney World property, this lounge affords stunning views from both inside and outside. We expected more of a villainous atmosphere. The theming of A Villains Lair isn't as extensive as other lounges. Timothy Moore The villain theming left a lot to be desired. There was some Disney villain artwork on the walls, and a TV was inexplicably frozen on a single frame from "The Little Mermaid." Other than that, we weren't getting any villain vibes. But the drinks and food were fantastic. Tower Trap cocktail from A Villains Lair. Timothy Moore Our final bill ended up being around $200 we indulged in a lot of food and one cocktail each. The cocktails themselves weren't unreasonably priced (for Disney). I ordered the Tower Trap ($17), another gin drink, and Cat got the Cursed Pirate ($15) with white rum. Both drinks were strong but flavorful. It was the perfect nightcap for a trip around the monorail loop. There are even more possible stops along the Disney monorail bar crawl. There are lots of little lounges at the resorts. Timothy Moore Our monorail bar crawl hardly scratched the surface. At each of the three resorts, there are so many places to grab a drink. At the Contemporary, don't miss the Outer Rim for stunning views of the sunset over Bay Lake. If you can snag a seat at the Contemporary's California Grill Lounge at night, you might get the best view of the Magic Kingdom fireworks they even pipe in the music. Over at the Polynesian, Trader Sam's drinks are also available outside at Trader Sam's Tiki Terrace. Sometimes there's even live music. You can also get a spiked Dole Whip at Pineapple Lanai. At the Grand Floridian, you can experience cocktails from one of Disney World's most delicious restaurants, Citricos. The lounge doesn't take reservations, so you can head over on a whim after a long day at Magic Kingdom. Disney's monorail service also takes guests to Epcot, so you can keep the party going around the World Showcase. You can't go wrong with a beer from Germany or a marg from Mexico. I also have some tips for a successful monorail bar crawl, starting with planning ahead. The lounges have a wide array of menus. Timothy Moore As with most things at Disney World, a little bit of planning goes a long way. Most of these bars don't open until late afternoon or early evening, so always check the schedule and map out where you'll go when. Some of these spots are more popular than others. Trader Sam's, for instance, fills up super fast. We had luck by getting there right when it opened and on a Tuesday (when Disney's supposedly less busy). Go with friends to save money. I took my friend Cat on the bar crawl with me. Timothy Moore Drinks at Disney are expensive. Tackle the monorail bar crawl with a friend and split each cocktail. It'll also keep you from getting too sloppy (it is a family place, after all). Just don't bring more than two friends. Scoring bar seating gets complicated with too many people. Finally, know your limits and have a safe way home. Take breaks throughout the day so you don't overindulge. Timothy Moore Although it's lots of fun to tackle all these spots in one day, remember that no matter how fruity the drink is, you're still consuming alcohol. Pace yourself, take breaks, eat food, and drink responsibly. End the night early enough to use Disney World's transportation back to your resort, or call a rideshare service. Never drive yourself after a bar crawl. Read the original article on Insider Former President Donald Trump speaks during an event at his Mar-a-Lago home on November 15, 2022 in Palm Beach, Florida Joe Raedle/Getty Images An ex-prosecutor in Manhattan DA's office compared Donald Trump to mafia boss John Gotti. "He demanded absolute loyalty," Mark Pomerantz said of Trump in his new book, per NYT. Pomerantz served in the DA office from early 2021 until his resignation a year later. A prominent ex-prosecutor accused former President Donald Trump of building his business empire "through a pattern of criminal activity" and compared him to the late mafia boss, John Gotti, according to a New York Times report on Friday. Mark Pomerantz, a former prosecutor in the Manhattan district attorney's office, made the comments in his forthcoming book, "People vs. Donald Trump," of which The Times obtained an advance copy. "He demanded absolute loyalty and would go after anyone who crossed him. He seemed always to stay one step ahead of the law," Pomerantz wrote of Trump, according to The Times. "In my career as a lawyer, I had encountered only one other person who touched all of these bases: John Gotti, the head of the Gambino organized crime family." A lawyer for Trump in a recent letter threatened legal action against Pomerantz for "defamatory statements against my clients" and said on Friday that "injecting the name John Gotti into this seems like just another desperate attempt by Pomerantz to sell books," per The Times. A spokesperson for Trump did not immediately return Insider's request for comment. Pomerantz had helped lead the investigation into Trump and his businesses in the Manhattan DA's office from early 2021 until his resignation a year later. He left after the new Manhattan DA, Alvin Bragg, refused to pursue charges against the former president. Read the original article on Business Insider Photo Illustration by Kelly Caminero / The Daily Beast / Reuters Americas presidents typically have adversarial relationships with the press. Some, like John F. Kennedy, complained about unfair coverage despite relentlessly manipulating and lying to reporters. Some, like George W. Bush, exploited national tragedies to create a fortress around their administrations in the name of security, and severely limited unfettered news coverage of the wars they started. Some, like Barack Obama, have gone after journalists using the most severe government forces available, despite enjoying mostly deferential (and quite often, favorable) coverage from the mainstream news media. But when it comes to naked contempt for the very concept of a free press, no modern president can hold a candle to Donald Trump. Its Not a HoaxTrumps Very Fine People in Charlottesville Did Not Exist The former presidentcurrently running for the 2024 GOP nomination after attempting a coup, inciting a riot at the U.S. Capitol, and instilling in the minds of millions a Big Lie that the 2020 election was stolenthis week filed suit against the veteran journalist Bob Woodward. Trump claims that by publishing audio of interviews he gave to Woodward in the audio version of Woodwards book (as opposed to the print version), the writer is in violation of copyright law. Do you follow that logic? Me neither. Many legal experts have said the case is complete nonsense and stands almost no chance of success in court, but thats beside the point. I am continuing my fight against the corrupt, dishonest, and deranged Fake News Media by filing this lawsuit, Trump posted on his Twitter knockoff site, Truth Social. This was an open and blatant attempt to make me look as bad as possible I will always champion TRUTH and battle against the evil forces of disinformation and Fake News! the former president continued. Trump may not be worth the $10 billion hes claimed, but hes still plenty rich enough to piss away money on frivolous lawsuits. A judge last month found Trump and his lawyers liable for $1 million in sanctions for pursuing a lawsuit that was part of a pattern of misusing the courts to serve political purposes and constituted abusive litigation tactics. Story continues Frivolous lawsuits should not be used as a vehicle for fundraising or fodder for rallies or social media, U.S. District Judge Donald Middlebrooks declared. But what does Trump produce, if not fodder for separating fools from their money or generating toxic noise on social media? Grifter Really Is the Only Word to Use for Jordan Peterson Bob Woodward and his publisher, Simon and Schuster, have the cash to defend themselves against Trumps litigious racketeering. But as First Amendment lawyer Ted Boutros told CNNs Oliver Darcy: This is yet another frivolous lawsuit by Donald Trump intended to punish and chill freedom of the press that once again displays his complete misunderstanding of journalism. Judge Middlebrooks said Trump is using the courts as a stage set for political theater and grievance. And its hardly the first time. He wants CNN to pony up almost $500 million for defamation. Hes sued the social media giants for censorship. And of course, being a thin-skinned bully, he tried to destroy a small independent local TV station in Wisconsin with a bogus suit for airing a political ad that hurt his feelings. Think Im being unfair in my characterization? Ask Trump himself. Heres what he told The Washington Post about losing a lawsuit against a journalist who questioned his lies about his net worth: I spent a couple of bucks on legal fees, and they spent a whole lot more. I did it to make his life miserable, which Im happy about. Yes, Trump hates the fake news mediawhen hes not acting as an anonymous source or planting favorable stories about himself. But his abuse of the court system to cow journalists and news outlets into submission is just a symptom of his oft-demonstrated aversion to free speech. The Intellectual Dark Webs Descent Into Paranoia and Trumpism Trump has long advocated for opening up libel laws to make it easier to sue people who write unfavorable things about him. Hes advocated for criminalizing flag burning and suggested a year in prison or stripping a person of citizenship as a fair penance. Hes called for stripping TV networks of their licenses. And, of course, the guru of the anti-cancel culture movement has called for innumerable peoples firings for their expression. Trump and his MAGA movement might cloak themselves as devotees of the First Amendment, but thats a transparent scam. In fact, by championing their own rights to free expression, while deeming other ideas irredeemably divisive, unpatriotic or dangerousits fair to describe their position as one of hyper-political correctness (snowflakey, even). Woodward and his corporate publishing house have little to fear from Trump. But as long as Trump possesses disposable income, hes free to menace anyone in his disfavor for expressing ideas (or facts) that offend him. Or, as hed put it, hell make their lives miserable. Read more at The Daily Beast. Get the Daily Beast's biggest scoops and scandals delivered right to your inbox. Sign up now. Stay informed and gain unlimited access to the Daily Beast's unmatched reporting. Subscribe now. Lexington police worked two separate shootings early Saturday that left two people, including a juvenile, injured. Police said the juvenile was inside a residence on the 1000 block of New Circle Road when they were hit by a bullet from a shooting in the parking lot of a neighboring business. Police said the child, whose age was not given, was taken to a local hospital with injuries that were not thought to be life-threatening. The juvenile was not thought to have been targeted in the shooting, which occurred at 3:25 a.m., police said. The business where the shooting happened was Cheetah Gentlemans Club, WKYT reported. At 4:52 a.m., police said they were called to a local hospital where a male victim had gone to be treated for a gunshot wound that he sustained in a shooting on or near Flying Ebony Drive. The mans injuries were not life-threatening, police said. Police asked that anyone with information about either incident call them at 859-258-3600. Anonymous tips can also be submitted to Bluegrass Crime Stoppers by calling 859-253-2020, visiting bluegrasscrimestoppers.com or using the P3 Tips app available at p3tips.com. Some politicians are demanding that the Pentagon shoot down the Chinese balloon that has invaded America's skies, but security experts told NBC News on Friday that's easier said than done. The United States has missiles in its arsenal capable of obliterating the balloon even at an altitude of 60,000 feet, but the falling wreckage could pose a danger to people on the ground, they said. You also have to look at the optics," said Joshua Fitt, a security expert at the Center for a New American Security, a Washington D.C.-based think tank. "What if we missed? It's still a tricky target. And it's not as easy to pop a balloon like this as you might expect." Brynn Tannehill, an analyst at the Rand Corp., agreed. Using a missile to shoot down the balloon is a risky proposition, because most available weapons, including advanced medium-range air-to-air missiles (AMRAAM) and surface-to-air Patriot missiles, arent normally used on targets at such high altitudes, she said. These are exquisite weapons systems designed for high-end purposes, but balloons were never part of that purpose, Tannehill said. Patriots and AMRAAMs are like Lamborghinis or Ferraris super high-end, super expensive but you wouldnt take either of them to an off-road rally. A high altitude balloon floats over Billings, Mont., on Feb. 1, 2023. (Larry Mayer / The Billings Gazette via AP) There could also be safety concerns if the missile veers off course. Even on a good day, missiles dont hit 100% of the time, Tannehill said. When you miss something at that high altitude, the missile is going to keep going for quite a ways, and where its going to come down is not super predictable. Still, this kind of intrusion by the Chinese calls for a decisive response from the U.S. government, said Tom Karako, who runs the missile defense project at the Center for Strategic & International Studies. I know the Chinese are saying this is a weather balloon, but I dont think anybody in the Pentagon believes that, Karako said, adding that Chinese surveillance of the U.S. has become increasingly aggressive in recent years. Story continues It is possible to shoot it down and, frankly, I think we should, Karako said. It sets a very bad precedent to let this go. The experts weighed-in after Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced Friday he was postponing a trip to Beijing next week while a growing chorus of mostly Republican lawmakers, as well as former President Donald Trump, called on the Biden administration to shoot the balloon down. This is a gross violation of American sovereignty, Sen. Josh Hawley, R-Mo., said in a letter to Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee Chair Gary Peters, D-Mich. Chinas foray into Americas sovereign airspace is deeply disturbing and calls for an immediate investigation. The Chinese government has expressed regret over the incident and insisted the balloon was for civilian research and had deviated far from its planned course. But Pentagon spokesperson Brig. Gen. Pat Ryder said the Defense Department is confident that the balloon, which has been flying eastward across the continental U.S. at an altitude of 60,000 feet, was doing surveillance. Still, the U.S. military has not made any move to knock it out of the sky because, among other things, falling debris poses a risk to people on the ground a concern that has been relayed to President Joe Biden. Karako agreed that shooting it down poses a legitimate risk to people on the ground. You dont want to do it over a populated area, he said. But the U.S. could also use lasers to blind the surveillance cameras aboard the balloon, he said. You can jam the heck out of it, Karako said. This could be a teachable moment because the cost of doing nothing here is way too high. Blinken did exactly the right thing by calling off the trip to Beijing. Blinken's canceling the China trip "is more damaging to Beijing than blowing up one of their 'spy' balloons," Fitt said. Tannehill said its not clear why China might be using a balloon for surveillance. Why would you use a balloon when you can use a satellite? she said. What you gain by using a balloon might be a little better than a satellite in some cases, but not strikingly. Karako said balloons are a much cheaper way to collect intelligence. They can be outfitted with high-powered cameras and are capable of lingering over a specific area, unlike a satellite orbiting the earth. Rob Fesen, a professor of physics and astronomy at Dartmouth, said the Chinese balloon appeared to have solar panels and a small payload unusually close to its body. Still, Fesen said, theres nothing in the public images hes seen that suggests its a spy craft, as opposed to a lost research balloon. Why does the military think this is a spy thing? What makes this a spy balloon? I dont know that, Fesen said. This particular balloon is round and does not appear to have propellers, which likely means its maneuverability is limited, he said. You can maneuver a little bit with a regular balloon by losing gas and changing altitude, taking advantage of different wind directions at different altitudes, Fesen said. Were very sophisticated these days at knowing what high-altitude winds are doing. China is not the only country that deploys research balloons, Fesen added. NASA has, in the past, launched much larger Yankee Stadium-sized research balloons more than 80-90,000 feet above the Earths surface, he said. Generally, they can be used by scientists to study cosmic rays, infrared light and particle physics. To land a balloon like the Chinese one that has the Pentagon on high alert, Fesen said researchers typically trigger a small explosive, which deploys a parachute that allows the payload to float to the ground or, more likely, the ocean. They could explode the payload and catch it or not catch it in the ocean, Fesen said. This article was originally published on NBCNews.com WASHINGTON (Reuters) -A judge on Friday released a ruling denying the Federal Trade Commission's request to stop Meta Platforms Inc from buying virtual reality content maker Within Unlimited, rejecting the regulator's concerns the deal would reduce competition in a new market. A December trial to decide if Meta could go forward with the relatively small deal was seen as a test of the FTC's bid to head off what it sees as a repeat of the company acquiring small upcoming would-be rivals to dominate a market, this time in the nascent virtual and augmented reality markets. The ruling had been issued in a sealed form earlier this week. The version issued on Friday evening was redacted. A Meta spokesperson said the Facebook and Instagram owner was "pleased that the Court has denied the FTCs motion to block our acquisition of Within." "We look forward to closing the transaction soon," the spokesperson said in a statement. The FTC did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Judge Edward Davila of the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California said the FTC had failed to show that Meta would have entered the market to make dedicated fitness content if it was unable to buy Within. "Though Meta boasts considerable financial and VR engineering resources, it did not possess the capabilities unique to VR dedicated fitness apps, specifically fitness content creation and studio production facilities," the judge wrote. The decision is good news for Meta boss and founder Mark Zuckerberg, who defended the acquisition in testimony in December, arguing that his company was helping to build but not dominate the virtual reality industry. Zuckerberg had testified in federal court in San Jose, California, that owning Within was "not that critical" to Meta's ambitions and that it was "less important that we own the experiences than that they exist." The FTC sued Meta in July to stop the Within deal, asking the judge to order a preliminary injunction, saying Meta's "campaign to conquer VR" began in 2014 when it acquired Oculus, a VR headset manufacturer. (Reporting by Diane Bartz; Editing by Lincoln Feast and William Mallard) WARSAW (Reuters) - U.S. President Joe Biden will visit Poland, the Polish president's foreign policy adviser said on Saturday. "We already know for sure that President Joe Biden will respond positively to President Duda's invitation and will come to Poland," Marcin Przydacz said on public TV. "We have agreed with the American side that we will announce the date of this visit in due course, but I can assure that it will be sooner rather than later," he added. Przydacz said that preparations are underway for the visit which "meets the expectations of both the White House and the expectations of the Polish side". "But for us it will be very important and crucial to continue supporting Poland's security ...," he added. President Biden said on Monday that he would visit Poland but did not know when. (Repoerting by Pawel Florkiewicz; Editing by Alexander Smith) (Reuters) - The U.S. is considering new sanctions on Chinese surveillance companies over sales to Iran's security forces, the Wall Street Journal reported on Saturday citing people familiar with the matter. U.S. authorities are in advanced discussions on the sanctions and have zeroed in on Tiandy Technologies Co, an electrical equipment manufacturer based out of the Chinese city of Tianjin whose products have been sold to units of Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, the report added. (Reporting by Kanjyik Ghosh in Bengaluru; Editing by Alexandra Hudson) For eight months of the full-scale war, more UAVs have been put into operation than in the last five years. Source: Oleksii Reznikov, Minister of Defence of Ukraine, at the meeting with more than 100 developers of UAVs, as reported by the website of the Ministry of Defence Details: Reznikov has pointed out the importance of supporting the Ukrainian market of UAVs, including multi-spectrum drones, specifically the air, land & water type. Quote: "This is about correcting artillery units, and launching strikes on the enemy [attack drones ed.], and supplying ammunition, evacuating the injured [soldiers ed.], etc. At the moment, the needs of the Ukrainian Defence Forces are hundreds of thousands of UAVs of different modifications. The work on meeting the mentioned needs is ongoing; in particular, for eight months of the full-scale war, more UAVs have been put into operation than in the last five years." "I will say once again, the independence of the military and industrial complex is one of the elements of the countrys defence capability. And right now, one of the key directions of the Ministry of Defence is development and support of the Ukrainian market of UAVs." More details: It is reported that legal work on simplifying the process of the development of UAV production is ongoing. Two draft laws and five amendments to the decrees of Ukraines Cabinet of Ministers have been completed. The topic of the necessity to create the Association that would represent manufacturers interests was actively discussed at the meeting. "Stance of both the manufacturers and the minister coincide," the Ministry of Defence said. In addition, the Minister of Defence has given registration certification to several manufacturers, which means that they can be used by soldiers already. Journalists fight on their own frontline. Support Ukrainska Pravda or become our patron! (Reuters) -Ukraine and Russia traded almost 200 prisoners of war in a swap announced separately by both sides on Saturday, with the bodies of two British volunteers also being sent back to Ukraine. The Ukrainian president's chief of staff, Andriy Yermak, said 116 Ukrainians had been returned, while Russian news agencies cited Moscow's defence ministry as saying 63 Russian POWs had been freed. "We managed to return 116 of our people, defenders of Mariupol, partisans from Kherson, snipers from the Bakhmut (front) and other heroes of ours," Yermak wrote on Telegram. President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said in a video address that since the war started last February, Ukraine had secured the release of 1,762 men and women from Russian captivity. Yermak also said the bodies of British volunteer aid workers Andrew Bagshaw and Chris Parry had been sent back to Ukraine. Bagshaw and Parry were killed during an attempted humanitarian evacuation in eastern Ukraine in January, Parry's family has previously said. Russia's Defence Ministry said the released Russian servicemen included "sensitive category" persons, whose exchange was made possible through the mediation of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), according to agencies. (Reporting by Reuters; Editing by William Maclean, Ros Russell, David Ljunggren and Leslie Adler) Oleksii Reznikov Whether its F-16s or Gripens (Swedish-made fighter jets) is a matter of discussion with partners from NATO countries," said Reznikov. Read also: Putins window of opportunity on battlefield closing, says former NATO head Rasmussen On Jan. 26, Politico reported that European countries are discussing the transfer of fighter jets to Ukraine after their decision to supply tanks, but some NATO countries remain hesitant. Read also: Zelenskyy administration furious with U.S. underestimation of Ukrainian capability, writes Politico On Jan. 30, U.S. President Joe Biden told journalists the United States will not supply Ukraine with F-16 fighter jets. Ukrainian Defense Minister Oleksii Reznikov subsequently pointed out that supplying every other major type of heavy military equipment, like HIMARS and main battle tanks, also was initially ruled out by Kyivs patterns, suggesting that F-16s could eventually be made available to Ukraine. Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine By Nick Starkov LVIV, Ukraine (Reuters) -Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said on Saturday that the situation on the front lines in the east of the country was getting tougher and Russia was throwing more and more troops into battle. The Kremlin has been pushing for a significant battlefield victory after months of setbacks, with Russian forces trying to close grip on the town of Bakhmut and fighting for control of a nearby major supply route for Ukrainian forces. Russian troops are also trying to capture the coal mining city of Vuhledar, some 120 kilometres (75 miles) southwest of Bakhmut, also in the eastern region of Donetsk. "I've often had to say the situation at the front is tough, and is getting tougher, and it's that time again. ... The invader is putting more and more of his forces into breaking down our defences," Zelenskiy said in his nightly video address. "It is very difficult now in Bakhmut, Vuhledar, Lyman and other directions," he continued. Earlier in the day, Deputy Defence Minister Hanna Malyar wrote on Telegram that Russian efforts to break the defences in Bakhmut and Lyman had failed. Lyman, which lies just to the north of Bakhmut, was liberated by Ukrainian forces in October. On Friday, Zelenskiy vowed that his forces will fight for Bakhmut "for as long as we can," but the situation there is becoming increasingly dire for Ukrainian forces. The General Staff of Ukraine's Armed Forces has been reporting daily numerous combat clashes in the area and Moscow military bloggers have claimed a number of unverified Russian successes along the frontline. The fighting around Bakhmut has been costly for Russia in terms of soldiers' lives, the Kremlin admitted. Russia's independent news outlet Meduza reported in late January that some 40,000 of the 50,000 recruits by the powerful Wagner private military group involved in the campaign there were either dead or missing. Story continues Reuters was not able to independently verify the reports. Ukrainian military analyst Petro Chernyk said that the high Russian casualty count means Moscow cannot take a break to stop an offensive there to recover as it would ease combat pressure. "And this would be an excellent condition for our counteroffensive actions," Chernyk told the 24 Kanal Ukrainian television. (Reporting by David Ljunggren; Editing by Leslie Adler and Sandra Maler) Another Tor-M2D anti-missile system was destroyed in Ukraine "Artillery military units and units of the Naval Infantry Command of Ukraine delivered fire on the invaders, destroying a Tor-M2DT anti-aircraft missile system and two Russian servicemen, the navys message reads. Read also: Ukraine destroys three enemy ammunition depots, Tor air defense system on southern front The final enemy losses are being verified. Tor-M2DT Arctic short-range air defense missile system is especially designed for use in extremely cold temperatures. The first batch of these systems were delivered to the Russian army in 2018 and were first used in 2019. A division of these combat vehicles was supplied to the Russian Ministry of Defense. Read also: France and Australia to manufacture artillery shells for Ukraine The Tor-M2DT is a modification of the Tor-M2 air defense system, and is based on the chassis of a DT-30 Vityaz two-link tracked transporter. It is intended to provide cover from anti-radar and cruise missile attacks, guided bombs, airplanes, helicopters and unmanned aerial vehicles. It consists of 16 vertical-launched anti-aircraft missiles with a range of up to 12 kilometers capable of hitting targets at altitudes of up to 10,000 meters. Read also: Ukraine can use whatever it needs to liberate its territories, says Pentagon The modernized target detection station is allegedly capable of detecting aircraft that use stealth technology. Over the 345 days of the full-scale war in Ukraine, Russia has lost about 130,590 of its soldiers, including 720 occupiers killed by the Ukrainian Armed Forces in the past day alone. Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine Adviser to the Office of the President, Mykhailo Podoliak, responded to new threats from Deputy Chairman of the Security Council of the Russian Federation, Dmitry Medvedev, reminding him that Ukraine can liberate the occupied Crimea as it wants. Source: Podoliak on Twitter Quote from Podoliak: "International law is clear. Ukraine can liberate its territories using any tool. Crimea is Ukraine. Therefore, threats by Russian officials of retribution strikes are only a confirmation of the intention to commit mass murders and an attempt to scare in the traditional Russian style. Always ignore Medvedev." Reminder: On 4 February, Medvedev said that if Ukraine attacks Russian facilities in Crimea, Russia will allegedly "only retaliate", including with nuclear weapons. Journalists fight on their own frontline. Support Ukrainska Pravda or become our patron! The Ukrainian defenders released from Russian captivity on Saturday are in an unsatisfactory condition, all of them are in the hospital. Source: Dmytro Usov, Deputy Head of the Main Directorate of Intelligence, during a meeting with the head of President's Office, Andrii Yermak, reports Presidents website Details: Usov noted that the state of health of the soldiers released from Russian captivity is unsatisfactory. Now they are all in the hospital and receiving first aid. They have treatment and rehabilitation ahead of them. On the other side, Yermak emphasised that those released from captivity should receive first aid, undergo all necessary examinations, and, if necessary, diagnoses should be made. "The state can provide the necessary support and assistance. Of course, it is necessary to arrange the meeting of the soldiers with their relatives. And then, if necessary, decide on treatment abroad," he said. Yermak noted that the preparation of this exchange lasted more than a month. A large team worked on it, including the Coordination Headquarters for the Treatment of Prisoners of War, representatives of all departments, as well as the Office of the President under the direct control of Volodymyr Zelenskyy. At the same time, Acting Minister of Internal Affairs, Ihor Klymenko, reported that among those released is a representative of the National Guard, who was previously considered missing. Previously: Another large exchange of prisoners of war took place on 4 February, with 116 people having been released. Journalists fight on their own frontline. Support Ukrainska Pravda or become our patron! US to transfer assets confiscated from Russian oligarch to Ukraine Today, I am announcing that I have authorized the first ever transfer of forfeited Russian assets for use in Ukraine, said Garland. Read also: EU finds legal way to use seized Russian central bank assets media reports The forfeited funds will next be transferred to the State Department to support the people of Ukraine. Russian war criminals will find no refuge in the United States. On Feb. 3, Garland met with his Ukrainian counterpart, Andriy Kostin. Kostin thanked the United States for its support and said that the Ukrainian people would not forget this. Read also: How did Russian criminals become the elite of Russian society? On Feb. 2, a federal court in New York ruled to confiscate $5.4 million of sanctioned Russian oligarch and owner of Tsargrad TV, Konstantin Malofeev. On Dec. 22, the U.S. Senate supported the use of the seized Russian assets to help financially sustain Ukraine. Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine Kim Teehee has been proposed to serve as the Cherokee Nation's first congressional delegate. iStock; Sue Ogrocki/AP Images; Rebecca Zisser/Insider The Cherokee Nation was promised a seat in Congress in the 1835 Treaty of New Echota. A recent congressional hearing suggested the tribe could be close to seating a delegate. Kim Teehee, the proposed delegate, told Insider it would show the US can keep its promises to tribes. In the state of Georgia in 1835, the US government and the Cherokee signed the Treaty of New Echota, which required the tribe give up millions of acres of its ancestral homeland in the Southeast and move to Indian territory west of the Mississippi. In return, the tribe was also supposed to receive representation in Congress. But most of the Cherokee did not support the treaty, which was signed as other Native tribes were already being forcibly removed from their lands. Two years after the treaty was signed, only a small portion of Cherokee had actually moved voluntarily. Federal officials sent thousands of soldiers to forcibly remove the tribe and send them on the 1,200-mile migration in which 4,000 people died, largely due to disease and starvation. Altogether, the forced removal of Native people during this time resulted in tens of thousands of deaths and came to be known as the Trail of Tears. Despite the US government's insistence on enforcing part of the Treaty of New Echota, nearly two centuries later a promise made to the Cherokee Nation remains unfulfilled that it receive its own delegate in the US House of Representatives. "This delegate position would give some small measure of justice for those who lost their lives on that forced march during the Trail of Tears," Kim Teehee, a Cherokee Nation citizen and longtime official who has been proposed to serve as the tribe's delegate, told Insider. "I think it would also show that the United States is capable of keeping its word in the treaties between the United States and Indian tribes." Seating a Cherokee delegate would also give a voice to Native nations in the halls of Congress, where they could serve on committees as well as introduce and lobby for bills that would support tribes. Story continues The Cherokee Nation appears closer than ever to finally seating a delegate. A hearing held by a congressional committee on the issue in November was "historic," according to Teehee, and could lead to Congress' first member representing a tribal nation. Treaties are the 'supreme Law of the Land' The case for the Cherokee to seat a nonvoting member in Congress hinges upon the legitimacy of the treaty signed 188 years ago. Article 6 of the US Constitution plainly states that all laws and treaties of the US "shall be the supreme Law of the Land." "Just because the document is old, doesn't mean that it's less valid," Teehee said. "Just look to the US Constitution and know that it's still a living, breathing, valid document, just like treaties." US courts have also acknowledged the validity of Indian treaties, said James Meggesto, a member of the Onondaga Nation and an attorney who specializes in Native American law. In the 2020 McGirt v. Oklahoma decision, the Supreme Court ruled that the treaty establishing the Muscogee (Creek) Nation's reservation land was never disbanded, and thus much of eastern Oklahoma was still Indian country. Even with a conservative majority, the court upheld a treaty right from 1832. "A treaty is the supreme law of the land whether it was made five years ago or hundreds of years ago," Meggesto previously told Insider. Hoskin Jr., left, and Teehee in Tahlequah, Oklahoma, in August 2019. Sue Ogrocki/Associated Press A 'historic' hearing on a tribe's treaty right In 2019, the Cherokee Nation took a step toward seating a delegate in the House of Representatives when Chuck Hoskin Jr., the Cherokee's principal chief, nominated Teehee in one of his first major actions after being elected. Teehee, who currently serves as the Cherokee's director of government relations, previously spent 12 years in Congress as a senior advisor to the House's bipartisan Native American Caucus. She also served in the White House as a senior policy advisor for Native American affairs under former President Barack Obama. In Congress, Teehee's job was to educate lawmakers on Indian issues and the relationship between tribes and the US government. "While that was an effective position to have, nothing beats having member-level engagement, member to member," she said. The Cherokee delegate would be a nonvoting member, like those from Washington, DC, and Puerto Rico, meaning they would not be able to cast a final chamber-wide vote on whether or not to pass a bill. But Teehee said there's a "very important deliberative process that takes place before a bill ever gets to that point." As nonvoting members, delegates can still serve on committees, introduce and promote bills, and speak on legislation from the House floor. In November, the US House Rules Committee held a hearing on the possibility of seating a Cherokee delegate. Then-House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said the hearing was a "key first step toward identifying what actions must be taken to honor this long-standing promise." Teehee said she was "blown away" by the "historic" nature of the hearing, adding: "It's the first time in my lifetime that I recall ever seeing a congressional committee hold a hearing on a particular tribe's treaty right." She said lawmakers asked tough questions, but she felt "very optimistic" the Cherokee delegate was something the committee ultimately supported. A matter of 'how the promise is kept' There are some questions to work through, including whether or not other tribal nations would be granted similar rights. There are also other tribes with treaties that called for representation in Congress, as well as other bands of Cherokee that say they, too, are successors of the tribe that entered into the treaty in 1835. Still, Rep. James McGovern, a Massachusetts Democrat, then the committee's chairman, suggested at the hearing that the Cherokee Nation delegate "can and should" be seated "as quickly as possible." Rep. Tom Cole, an Oklahoma Republican who is a member of the Chickasaw Nation, also signaled openness to seating a Cherokee delegate and said he supported the US honoring its treaty obligations, though he acknowledged there were legal and procedural questions to address. With the new GOP majority, Cole was appointed chairman of the committee earlier this month. Hoskin Jr., left, and Mainon Schwartz, an attorney at the Congressional Research Services, at a House Rules Committee hearing in Washington, DC, on November 16, 2022. Mariam Zuhaib/Associated Press Hoskin Jr. told Insider the tribe is closer than ever to seating a delegate, calling the hearing a "great success" and noting there was bipartisan support. "When the questions are more oriented to how the promise is kept, not whether the promise should be kept, that I think is great progress," he said. Hoskin wrote a letter this week to House Speaker Kevin McCarthy and Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, calling on them to work toward seating a delegate. He said the tribe believes there is a sound legal argument for the House to be able to seat the delegate on its own. However, if lawmakers determine it would be more appropriate to pass legislation in order to add the delegate, the Cherokee would work toward accomplishing it that way as well. Support for tribes and representation for Native people Having a delegate in Congress would give the Cherokee Nation a chance to formulate and support laws and policies that impact their tribe, but also other Native nations, according to Teehee. "We know that we have issues that are similar to other tribes in the country, although there are differences," she said. "I think that's why we've been able to galvanize support from across the country from Indian tribes." If given the chance to serve in Congress, Teehee said she would advocate for tribes to receive the funding they need for public safety, education, infrastructure, internet connectivity, and cultural preservation of traditions and languages. The Cherokee Nation is continuing to galvanize support and encourages US citizens to reach out to their representatives in Congress and tell them to fulfill the treaty promise. Teehee said she also thinks an increase in Native representation in Congress would be inspiring to young people, who could "see themselves reflected in the people who are holding these positions," adding "that didn't exist in my day." "I think the stars are aligned for a Cherokee Nation delegate to be seated," she said. "Let's keep adding to the historic moments. Let's keep breaking the ceiling and shattering it." Have a news tip? Contact this reporter at kvlamis@insider.com. Read the original article on Business Insider A high altitude balloon floats over Billings, Montana, on Wednesday, Feb. 1, 2023. Larry Mayer/The Billings Gazette via AP The US has taken down a suspected Chinese spy balloon over the Atlantic. The balloon earlier on Saturday had been detected over South Carolina near the Atlantic Ocean. An operation is currently underway to recover fragments of the balloon. The US on Saturday took down a suspected Chinese spy balloon over the Atlantic Ocean, where fragments of the object could possibly be taken in by the government, US officials said. The balloon, which had spent five days traversing the country at roughly 60,000 feet in the air, was detected over South Carolina as it moved toward the Atlantic Ocean on Saturday. The balloon was taken down by a single air-to-air missile fired by an F22 jet flying at 58,000 feet, Fox News reported. President Joe Biden on Saturday afternoon thanked US aviators for their work in taking down the balloon. "I ordered the Pentagon to shoot it down on Wednesday as soon as possible ... they decided that the best time to do that was when it got over water within a 12-mile limit," the president said. "They successfully took it down and I want to compliment our aviators who did it." Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said in a statement Saturday the balloon was being used by China "in an attempt to surveil strategic sites in the continental United States." Videos quickly surfaced online Saturday afternoon, showing the balloon dissipating in the sky. Philip Melanchthon Wegmann (@PhilipWegmann) February 4, 2023 To prepare for its efforts to take down the balloon, the Federal Aviation Administration temporarily closed airspace off in the Carolinas, which included airports in Charleston, South Carolina, Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, and Wilmington, North Carolina, until roughly 2:45 p.m. local time on Saturday. The agency had also diverted air traffic away from the region and notified travelers of delays due to the restrictions. The Coast Guard had also asked mariners to steer clear of the area due to US military actions "that present a significant hazard." Story continues US officials were seeking to obtain as many parts of the balloon as they could before some pieces eventually sink into the Atlantic, per the AP's report. A US official said that the part under the balloon is roughly the size of two to three school buses, while the actual balloon was larger which has the potential to produce a considerable debris field. Biden had leaned toward taking down the balloon when he was briefed on the matter on Tuesday, per the report, but Pentagon officials cautioned him against such a move, citing the risk to individuals on the ground. US military commanders had previously determined that downing the balloon over land "posed an undue risk to people across a wide area due to the size and altitude of the balloon and its surveillance payload," Austin said in his statement. Austin also called China's use of the balloon an "unacceptable violation of our sovereignty. He added that the downing of the balloon, which also flew over Canadian airspace in recent days, was "taken in coordination, and with the full support, of the Canadian government." China's Foreign Ministry on Saturday called the US downing of the balloon "clearly an excessive reaction that seriously violates international convention," according to The New York Times. The ministry insisted that the balloon was a civilian aircraft that had been flown over the US in a "totally accidental" incident. "China will resolutely defend the legitimate rights and interests of the enterprise involved, and retains the right to respond further," the statement said. This story has been updated. Read the original article on Business Insider Consequences of shelling of Bakhmut by Russian troops The aid worker was killed when the ambulance he was in was shelled by Russian forces, media reported. The volunteer was on a mission for aid organization Global Response Medicine when he was killed. Read also: Azov Regiment becomes assault brigade and already fighting in Bakhmut "Yesterday, GRM founder Pete Reed was killed in Bakhmut, Ukraine. Pete was the bedrock of GRM, serving as Board President for 4 years. In January, Pete stepped away from GRM to work with Global Outreach Doctors on their Ukraine mission and was killed while rendering aid," an Instagram post by Global Response Medicine reads. Read also: Two UK volunteers killed in Soledar Global Response Medicine is a veteran-founded nonprofit organization providing emergency medicine to populations displaced by war, conflict, or disaster around the world. Pete Reed, a former decorated US Marine, was 33. He also was Ukraine Director of Global Outreach Doctors. CNN reported that Reeds wife, Alex Kay Potter, wrote on Instagram that Reed had died while protecting another person. Read also: Two UK volunteers reported missing in Donbas He was evacuating civilians and responding to those wounded when his ambulance was shelled. He died doing what he was great at, what gave him life, and what he loved, and apparently by saving a team member with his own body, Potters Instagram post said. On Feb. 3, two Norwegian medical volunteers, Sander Srsveen Trelvik and Simon Johnsen, were injured in a Russian shelling attack on Bakhmut. Read also: How LGBTQ soldiers, doctors, and volunteers protect Ukraine Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine Vinvest Capital Holdings Berhad (KLSE:VINVEST) shareholders will doubtless be very grateful to see the share price up 34% in the last quarter. But will that repair the damage for the weary investors who have owned this stock as it declined over half a decade? Probably not. Like a ship taking on water, the share price has sunk 80% in that time. It's true that the recent bounce could signal the company is turning over a new leaf, but we are not so sure. The fundamental business performance will ultimately determine if the turnaround can be sustained. While the stock has risen 12% in the past week but long term shareholders are still in the red, let's see what the fundamentals can tell us. View our latest analysis for Vinvest Capital Holdings Berhad While Vinvest Capital Holdings Berhad made a small profit, in the last year, we think that the market is probably more focussed on the top line growth at the moment. Generally speaking, we'd consider a stock like this alongside loss-making companies, simply because the quantum of the profit is so low. For shareholders to have confidence a company will grow profits significantly, it must grow revenue. In the last five years Vinvest Capital Holdings Berhad saw its revenue shrink by 24% per year. That puts it in an unattractive cohort, to put it mildly. So it's not that strange that the share price dropped 12% per year in that period. This kind of price performance makes us very wary, especially when combined with falling revenue. Of course, the poor performance could mean the market has been too severe selling down. That can happen. You can see below how earnings and revenue have changed over time (discover the exact values by clicking on the image). You can see how its balance sheet has strengthened (or weakened) over time in this free interactive graphic. What About The Total Shareholder Return (TSR)? We'd be remiss not to mention the difference between Vinvest Capital Holdings Berhad's total shareholder return (TSR) and its share price return. The TSR is a return calculation that accounts for the value of cash dividends (assuming that any dividend received was reinvested) and the calculated value of any discounted capital raisings and spin-offs. Vinvest Capital Holdings Berhad hasn't been paying dividends, but its TSR of -74% exceeds its share price return of -80%, implying it has either spun-off a business, or raised capital at a discount; thereby providing additional value to shareholders. Story continues A Different Perspective Investors in Vinvest Capital Holdings Berhad had a tough year, with a total loss of 49%, against a market gain of about 3.1%. However, keep in mind that even the best stocks will sometimes underperform the market over a twelve month period. Unfortunately, last year's performance may indicate unresolved challenges, given that it was worse than the annualised loss of 12% over the last half decade. We realise that Baron Rothschild has said investors should "buy when there is blood on the streets", but we caution that investors should first be sure they are buying a high quality business. It's always interesting to track share price performance over the longer term. But to understand Vinvest Capital Holdings Berhad better, we need to consider many other factors. To that end, you should be aware of the 2 warning signs we've spotted with Vinvest Capital Holdings Berhad . Of course, you might find a fantastic investment by looking elsewhere. So take a peek at this free list of companies we expect will grow earnings. Please note, the market returns quoted in this article reflect the market weighted average returns of stocks that currently trade on MY exchanges. Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned. Join A Paid User Research Session Youll receive a US$30 Amazon Gift card for 1 hour of your time while helping us build better investing tools for the individual investors like yourself. Sign up here I was surprised by a lot of things during my first visit to Costco. Aefa Mulholland I'm a chef from the UK who recently went to a Costco in Canada for the first time. I was astounded by the size of the warehouse and by the selection of fruit and vegetables. I had a good time but I thought the much-hyped food court was drab and underwhelming. I finally visited Costco for the first time after hearing about it for years. Costco has locations around the world. Shutterstock I've lived close to a slew of Costco stores for years, but have never shopped there. Recently, I decided it was time to investigate what the wholesale chain sold and to see if shopping there was as amazing an experience as people say. When I first trundled my cart into the store, I was taken aback by the size of the space. With so many aisles, areas, and choices, it would be very easy to get sensory overload. Aefa Mulholland I knew Costco locations were large but I hadn't realized they're not simply big stores they really are enormous warehouses. The location I visited in Thorncliffe Park, Toronto, was like a jumbo jet hangar with soaring, high ceilings and bright lighting. The store seemed to stretch for miles. Each aisle was so wide. I was really impressed by the variety of produce I saw. There was so much choice, including some varieties I hadnt seen before. Aefa Mulholland I hadn't expected to meet multiple types of mangoes, but Costco had so many, including Ataulfo (or honey) mangoes from Peru and red mangoes from Brazil. I thought the prices were very reasonable. There was also a great selection of plums, pineapple, and bananas, including tiny bananitos. The areas around the fruits, vegetables, and baked goods were the busiest in the store. I hadn't expected to encounter a giant row of refrigerated rooms. These chilled areas were the most crowded parts of the warehouse. Aefa Mulholland When I first looked around the store, I didn't understand what the rows of large white blocks were. To my surprise, they were refrigerated vaults that reminded me of cold rooms in some of the larger hotel kitchens I've worked in. The first cold room I explored was for eggs and dairy. It was so chilly inside that I had to quickly grab my milk and run. The second vault was for berries and leaves. Even as a chef, I found a produce I'd never heard of before kalettes. The tiny, purple, cabbage-like vegetables turned out to be a hybrid between kale and Brussels sprouts. They can be eaten raw or cooked and have a sweet, nutty flavor. Story continues The fish selection was almost as good as what I've seen in a dedicated fish market. Many of the fish appeared to be wild rather than farmed. Aefa Mulholland Costco's selection of fish seemed fresh, well-presented, and very appealing. I noticed whole fish, including wild ocean perch, wild sockeye salmon, Atlantic salmon, redfish, haddock, and tilapia. There were also so many types of shellfish. The shellfish options also seemed wonderfully fresh Aefa Mulholland Alongside tubs of Pacific and Chebooktook oysters, there were live Fortune oysters from Nova Scotia oysters and 5-pound bags of farmed blue mussels. I was pretty impressed by the options. I hadn't expected to find almost an entire aisle of alternative milks. This was probably the emptiest aisle in the store Aefa Mulholland Who knew there were so many types of milk? A few that caught my eye included Milkadamia macadamia-nut milk, cartons of chai latte, and oat milk from Oat Canada, a pun on the Canadian national anthem, "O Canada." At the end of the well-stocked cheese fridges nearby I found non-dairy cheese alternatives. I picked up two wheels of cranberry and pistachio Fauxmage, a dairy-free cashew cheese, for 16 Canadian dollars, about $12 USD. There were far fewer free-sample stations than I had expected. Luckily, there was no shortage of snacks in the store. Aefa Mulholland I'd heard of Costco's legendary tasting stations of free samples and was hoping to try an array of items, but only encountered small stations offering butter chicken, sauce, and hummus. Instead, I grabbed a large bag of Veggie Straws to snack on once I left the store. Although I anticipated large quantities and sizes of products, I was still taken aback by some items. Certain Costco items only make sense to buy if you have a large family or are catering an event. Aefa Mulholland I marveled at pails of feta cheese, vats of potato salad bigger than my head, gargantuan meat logs, and Caesar salads that would feed six. There were many items that were way too big for my household of two people and three cats. The amount of fresh food made in-store was extremely impressive. Reasonably priced salads, taco dinners, and lasagnas are all made in Costcos kitchens. Aefa Mulholland I'd thought Costco's selection would have more processed, prepackaged items, but a lot of the food on offer is made or prepared on premises and branded with the chain's Kirkland Signature logo. I saw dozens of workers making trays of food behind a glass wall running the length of the refrigerated cabinets of meats and salads. Even out in the car park, the wonderful smell of fresh cookies wafted from the building, reminding me of all the baked goods made in-store. I thought Costco only sold food but I was very wrong. There were aisles of appliances, clothes, and other items I did not expect. Aefa Mulholland I was surprised to encounter walls of televisions, coffee makers, and mixers by the entrance. I also saw aisles of office supplies and furniture, from folding tables to office chairs. I hadn't expected to see mounds of slippers, fleece jackets, underwear, and pajamas, either. I was honestly disappointed by the food court. I thought the cavernous food-court area was drafty, empty, and cold Aefa Mulholland I'd heard so many great things about Costco's food court. Sadly, I was underwhelmed. The prices were shockingly low, but the selection was limited. The menu primarily had hot dogs, chicken strips, pizza, chicken wings, fries, ice cream, and fountain drinks. The environment reminded me of a high-school gym and there were a few stragglers sitting around plain tables, nursing plates of fries and $0.89 fountain drinks. I had expected something more similar to an Ikea restaurant with much more variety on the menu. Overall, I'm already looking forward to my next Costco trip. My only regret is not buying more kalettes. Aefa Mulholland I was surprised to find how much I enjoyed shopping at Costco and was delighted with my haul of items massive blocks of Irish Dubliner cheddar, large sacks of pistachios and craisins, and stacks of fresh fruit and vegetables. I'm sure I missed loads of things. After all, Costco is so large that if you forget or miss something, it's a daunting trek to go back to find it again. It's nice that if there's something you need in bulk, Costco is an excellent place to stock up. The membership, which can cost as litte as $60 a year, really seems worth the price and I'll definitely shop here again. Read the original article on Insider Wabash National (NYSE:WNC) Full Year 2022 Results Key Financial Results Revenue: US$2.50b (up 39% from FY 2021). Net income: US$112.3m (up by US$111.1m from FY 2021). Profit margin: 4.5% (up from 0.1% in FY 2021). The increase in margin was driven by higher revenue. EPS: US$2.31 (up from US$0.023 in FY 2021). All figures shown in the chart above are for the trailing 12 month (TTM) period Wabash National EPS Beats Expectations Revenue was in line with analyst estimates. Earnings per share (EPS) surpassed analyst estimates by 4.7%. Looking ahead, revenue is forecast to grow 5.8% p.a. on average during the next 3 years, compared to a 4.9% growth forecast for the Machinery industry in the US. Performance of the American Machinery industry. The company's shares are up 16% from a week ago. Risk Analysis You should learn about the 1 warning sign we've spotted with Wabash National. 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. Join A Paid User Research Session Youll receive a US$30 Amazon Gift card for 1 hour of your time while helping us build better investing tools for the individual investors like yourself. Sign up here The Arizona Legislature on Tuesday hit a new high in the hysteria over that most critical and horrifying of dangers that threaten our children. Yep, theyre going after the drag queens again, only this time theyre also going after parents. Senate Bill 1698 would criminalize anyone who exposes a child to a drag performance. Take your daughter to see Hairspray and, by my read of the bill, youd be guilty of a class 4 felony, punishable by up to 15 years in prison. Youd also have to register as a sex offender. Bills would limit drag shows This bill is brought to you by Sen. Justine Wadsack, R-Tucson, a member of the Arizona Freedom Caucus. Freedom, that is, unless you allow your child to watch Mulan, in which case youd be guilty of a dangerous crime against children if said child is under the age of 15. I realize theres political gold these days in demonizing drag but isnt this just a tad I dont know full-on, flat-out bonkers? Opinions in your inbox: Get exclusive access to our columnists and the best of our columns throughout the week Drag has been around since ancient times, but it became the latest front in the far rights culture wars last year after a bar in Texas hosted what was billed as a family-friendly drag queen show. One would think family friendly should be in the eyes of the family. In this case, the parents who took their children to see the show. But no. The far right was scandalized. So naturally, our leaders swung into action in January, pumping out bills to bar drag shows in places where children might see them and to limit when such shows can occur, even when kids arent around. Protest at the Arizona Capitol on Jan. 22, 2023, in Phoenix in response to anti-drag show bills. Republican Sen. John Kavanagh of Fountain Hills wants to bar state-funded drag shows for kids (SB 1026). Never mind that not even Kavanagh can point to any state-funded drag shows for kids. Republican Sen. Anthony Kern of Glendale wants to ensure that no drag performances occur within a quarter mile of a day care center, school, playground, park, house or church (SB 1028). He also wants to prevent drag performances between 1 a.m. and 8 a.m. Monday through Saturday and between 1 a.m. and noon on Sunday (SB 1030). Story continues Drags queens instead of economy?: Voters have clearly told Republicans to change their ways. So far GOP has said, 'Nope.' Watch 'Mrs. Doubtfire,' break the law? Now comes Wadsack, with SB 1698. The bill, one of 50 she introduced on Tuesday, would make it a crime to expose a child to a drag performance. The bill defines drag as any performance in which one or more people dress as a member of the opposite sex to exaggerate gender signifiers and roles (and) engage in singing, dancing or a monologue or skit in order to entertain an audience of two or more people. So Mulan, the story of a fearless young Chinese woman who impersonates a male soldier to defend her homeland? Hairspray, the musical in which spunky Tracy Turnblads mother is played by John Travolta? Thats criminal behavior, if a parent allows a child to see it. It also would be a crime to expose your child to Robin Williams (Mrs. Doubtfire), Dustin Hoffman (Tootsie), Julie Andrews (Victor/Victoria), Tom Hanks (Bosom Buddies), Martin Lawrence (Big Mommas House) or Jamie Farr (M.A.S.H.) Robin Williams in the title role from the 1993 motion picture "Mrs. Doubtfire." And what about that holiday standard White Christmas, in which Bing Crosby and Danny Kaye perform as a sister act? Students have a right to learn about others: DeSantis won't let them 'Freedom Team' claims it's about protecting kids Wadsack didnt respond to my questions about why she wants to send someone to prison for allowing his or her child to watch certain episodes of "Bugs Bunny." But her fellow freedom warrior, Rep. Rachel Jones of Tucson, took to social media to sing the bills praises. Yes, she tweeted. The AZ Freedom Team unashamedly sponsored this bill. It has NOTHING to do with discrimination against anyone and EVERYTHING to do with protecting children. Advocates for children being exposed to over-sexualized burlesque for adults should really rethink their stance. Over-sexualized burlesque? Jones should really read the bill she co-sponsored. Opinion alerts: Get columns from your favorite columnists + expert analysis on top issues, delivered straight to your device through the USA TODAY app. Don't have the app? Download it for free from your app store. Had it been law, even a certain unsuccessful gubernatorial candidate might have gone to prison, having once allowed her young daughter to watch one of the Valley of the Suns best-known drag queens perform as Marilyn Monroe at a baby shower. If a parent is OK with that, really, what business is it of the supposedly freedom-loving Arizona Legislature? Reach Laurie Roberts at laurie.roberts@arizonarepublic.com. Follow her on Twitter: at @LaurieRoberts You can read diverse opinions from our Board of Contributors and other writers on the Opinion front page, on Twitter @usatodayopinion and in our daily Opinion newsletter. To respond to a column, submit a comment to letters@usatoday.com. This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Arizona anti-drag bill would make it a crime to let kids watch 'Mulan' The week ended with a surprising international development after U.S. military leaders confirmed a Chinese surveillance balloon is drifting over parts of the country. Domestically, President Joe Biden hosted Speaker Kevin McCarthy at the White House to discuss a possible deal on the debt ceiling; experts warn delaying an increase in the debt limit could spell economic disaster. Capitol Hill also had its own fireworks as Minnesota Congresswoman Ilhan Omar was ousted from a key panel by the new House Republican majority. And even though it's just now February of 2023, the 2024 presidential contest continues to creep into the headlines as Republican Nikki Haley, a former Trump administration official, is expected to announce she's running in next year's race. What happened this week in politics? Can Biden, McCarthy make a debt deal? President Joe Biden and House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif., reportedly had a frank and straightforward talk about a number of topics, but neither side is showing their cards. The speaker said, Theres an opportunity here to come to an agreement on both sides on the debt limit, while Biden "made clear that... it is their shared duty not to allow an unprecedented and economically catastrophic default." Story continues House Speaker Kevin McCarthy of Calif., talks with reporters outside the West Wing of the White House in Washington following his meeting with President Joe Biden, Wednesday, Feb. 1, 2023. Politics: The rocky path for NY Rep. George Santos. Here's what his future in Congress could look like More: Biden, Trump, Pence aren't alone: Millions access sensitive documents, mishandling is common Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell, however, didn't mince words Wednesday. He said that the central bank might not be able to prevent an economic catastrophe if the GOP-controlled House waits too long on raising the debt ceiling. "There's only one way forward here, and that is for Congress to raise the debt ceiling so that the United States government can pay all of its obligations when due," Powell said. Eye spy a Chinese surveillance balloon Elected officials sounded the alarm when a Chinese spy balloon was caught hovering over parts of Montana, where the Pentagon has nuclear missile silos. As one point U.S. military leaders had considered shooting it down but declined to do so over concerns that debris could injure residents on the ground or destroy property. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken has postponed an imminent trip to China, with Biden officials saying the discovery of the balloon represents a "clear violation" of sovereignty and international law. Congress: Southwest Airlines COO to testify before Senate Commerce Committee Republican Sen. Mitt Romney of Utah used the incident to underscore how the U.S. must confront China whether in the real world or online, where its growing social media influence is raising concerns. "A big Chinese balloon in the sky and millions of Chinese TikTok balloons on our phones," he said in a tweet Friday. "Lets shut them all down." A big Chinese balloon in the sky and millions of Chinese TikTok balloons on our phones. Lets shut them all down. Senator Mitt Romney (@SenatorRomney) February 3, 2023 The U.S. military has deployed F-22 fighter jets to observe the balloon, and defense officials say it is flying so high that it does not present a danger to civilian aircraft. Omar: 'I am an American' Since being elected to Congress, Democrat Ilhan Omar of Minnesota has been a lightning rod for conservatives, who say she is unfit to serve on the House Foreign Affairs Committee due to comments both Democrats and Republicans have called antisemitic. Rep. Ilhan Omar, D-Minn., leaves the House chamber at the Capitol in Washington, Thursday, Feb. 2, 2023. House Republicans have voted to oust Omar from the House Foreign Affairs Committee. The vote in a raucous session on Thursday to remove the Somali-born Muslim lawmaker came after her past comments critical of Israel. The GOP-controlled House ousted her from the panel along a party line vote. Read the whole story here: GOP removes Rep. Ilhan Omar from Foreign Affairs Committee, citing her comments on Israel Omar and her allies in Congress didn't hold back, however, and cast the move as racist and xenophobic. She defended her love of the country in a floor speech, saying as refugee who survived the horrors of the Somali civil war she believes in the "American dream and the American possibility" embedded in the democratic process. "I am an American," Omar said. "An American who was sent here by her constituents to represent them in Congress." Haley to enter 2024 White House race Former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley is expected to announce she's running for president in 2024, according to multiple sources familiar with her plans. She teased her plans in tweeted video saying, "It's time for a new generation to lead." Former U.N. Ambassador and former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley speaks during the Iowa Republican Party's Lincoln Dinner, on June 24, 2021, in West Des Moines, Iowa. She's expected to announce on Feb. 15. Haley is the daughter of Indian immigrants who served in the Trump administration as U.S. ambassador to the United Nations. Up until now she had sent mixed messages about running. In April 2021, for example, she said: "I would not run if President Trump ran, and I would talk to him about it." But Haley has also been critical of Trump, particularly after the failed insurrection of Jan. 6, 2021. DeSantis v. Black history class Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis started off Black History Month by declaring that the College Board is revising its AP African American studies curriculum "for the entire nation" due to his "stand for education over identity politics." Under the changes, topics such as the Black Lives Matter movement and reparations for slavery are no longer to be taught. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis speaks to the crowd after being sworn in to begin his second term during an inauguration ceremony outside the Old Capitol Tuesday, Jan. 3, 2023, in Tallahassee, Fla. The decision was spurred in party by Florida education officials, who rejected the new AP course last month, saying the class for high school students violated state law. DeSantis and his allies cheered the move as a victory against "woke ideology," but it has ignited a fierce debate as Black studies educators have decried it as an attempt at censorship Politics: 'Woke mind virus'? 'Corporate wokeness'? Why red America has declared war on corporate America More: Florida rejected AP African American Studies. Here's what's actually being taught in the course "Florida is a laboratory of fascism at this point," Khalil Gibran Muhammad, a Harvard Kennedy School professor of history, race and public policy, said in a recent interview. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: China spy balloon, Nikki Haley White House run: week in politics This week, the Russians deployed all their forces to break through the Ukrainian line of defence and surround Bakhmut, as well as launching an offensive on the Lyman front. Source: Hanna Maliar, Ukrainian Deputy Minister of Defence, on Telegram Quote: "If we conclude and analyse all official summaries from the front this week, we can surmise that: This week, the Russian occupation forces deployed all their forces to break through our line of defence and surround Bakhmut; and mounted an offensive on the Lyman front. But thanks to the resilience of our soldiers, the Russians had no success." Journalists fight on their own frontline. Support Ukrainska Pravda or become our patron! A drier weather pattern will settle in for California coming days. However, the transition will still come with its own host of hazards as AccuWeather meteorologists say bouts of gusty winds will impact Southern California through the week. The change in the weather pattern across the western U.S. will come on the heels of a storm the dove southward across the region on Sunday. This storm first approached the coast of California on Saturday before pushing a wave of heavier precipitation inland. While the storm started to unload a significant amount of snow in the Sierra Nevada, coastal California and lower elevations were hit with waves of rain. AccuWeather Senior Meteorologist Heather Zehr noted that rainfall totals of 1-2 inches were observed in coastal ranges near and north of San Francisco as well as in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada. San Francisco measured 1.29 inches over the last few days while Sacramento, California received 0.56 inches. A significant amount of the storm's moisture was wrung out in the form of snow, and AccuWeather meteorologists warned that motorists over Donner Pass along Interstate 80 should expect snow-covered roads. Snowfall reports coming in show that a general 1-2 feet of snow piled up across the Sierra Nevadas. The storm even brought a shower to Southern California, with rain being reported at Los Angeles International Airport during the morning on Sunday. GET THE FREE ACCUWEATHER APP The Pacific Northwest will continue to be the focal point for rounds of rain and mountain snow into the middle of the week. In California, however, dry and windy conditions are expected to move in early this week, AccuWeather meteorologists say. An area of high pressure will set up overhead throughout the week, promoting dry conditions across the state, according to AccuWeather Meteorologist Brandon Buckingham. This set-up will initiate an offshore wind in Southern California into Tuesday. Story continues AccuWeather experts say there will be wind gusts of 50-70 mph from the California Desserts to the coast. An AccuWeather Local StormMax of 85 mph is not out of the question, especially in the higher elevations. Ahead of the gusty conditions, residents are advised to secure any loose outdoor items. Localized power outages and travel delays may also occur. The wildfire risk will be nearly nonexistent during the event as a result of abnormally wet soil conditions following the onslaught of storms in January. The atmospheric river that brought extensive moisture to the region last month prompted flood emergencies for some and brought a record-setting snowpack in the Sierra Nevada Mountains. The storms from December to the first half of January have already had a tremendous impact on the long-term drought in California. In a matter of weeks, the two highest categories of drought -- extreme and exceptional -- completely disappeared, according to the United States Drought Monitor. Many reservoirs in the state had water levels close to or above their average levels for early February, and that represents a tremendous boost from extremely low levels at the start of the winter. As long as periodic storms, even of average nature, continue in the region through the end of the wet season, the snowpack and reservoir levels will be largely preserved and may climb even higher. AccuWeather's long-range team says it may take until the upcoming weekend for the next storm to arrive in California, bringing the return of rain and mountain snow. Until then, residents are likely to welcome the pattern change that will bring more opportunities to get outdoors following the waves of heavy rainfall to end 2022 and start 2023. Want next-level safety, ad-free? Unlock advanced, hyperlocal severe weather alerts when you subscribe to Premium+ on the AccuWeather app. AccuWeather Alerts are prompted by our expert meteorologists who monitor and analyze dangerous weather risks 24/7 to keep you and your family safer. A white officer involved in the fatal arrest of Tyre Nichols last month has been fired from the Memphis Police Department for several conduct violations during the incident. The department said in a statement on Friday that Preston Hemphill was terminated from his role for violations of personal conduct, truthfulness, compliance with regulations concerning a taser, compliance with regulations concerning equipment and inventory and processing recovered property. After a thorough review of the circumstances surrounding this incident, we determined that Officer Preston violated multiple department policies, the department said. Hemphill is the sixth of Memphis police officers fired from the department for their actions after Nichols, a 29-year-old Black man, was pulled over. The first five officers, who are also Black, were fired and charged with multiple crimes including second-degree murder. Body camera video showed that the five officers brutally beat Nichols for three minutes and left him on the ground without medical attention for more than 20 minutes after. The footage also showed Hemphill was the one who pulled Nichols out of his vehicle after police stopped him. ABC reported that Hemphills body camera footage showed him chasing Nichols after he ran away from the officers during their first confrontation. But Hemphill turned back to the location of the traffic stop instead of continuing to the second location where the five officers eventually beat him. Hemphill was previously relieved of duty at the start of the departments investigation. A seventh officer, who was not identified, has also been suspended. The department said after announcing the two suspensions that their suspensions was delayed because it focused on investigating the five officers who were directly involved in beating Nichols first. This is still an ongoing administrative investigation, and multiple MPD officers are under investigation for departmental policy violations, the department said in its Friday statement. Story continues It said Hemphill has served in the department since March 2018. The Memphis Fire Department has also fired two emergency medical technicians and a lieutenant who failed to conduct an adequate patient assessment of Nichols. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Rep. George Santos (R-NY) seen wearing the lapel pin on Tuesday, Jan. 31, 2023 in Washington, DC. Kent Nishimura / Los Angeles Times via Getty Images Some GOP lawmakers have been seen wearing lapel pins in the shape of miniature AR-15 rifles. Georgia Rep. Andrew Clyde, who owns a gun store, has taken responsibility for handing them out. One Democratic congressman said that wearing the pins "isn't the flex you think it is." Recently, Republican members of Congress, Rep. George Santos and Rep. Anna Paulina Luna have been spotted wearing lapel pins resembling miniature AR-15 rifles. "Where are these assault weapon pins coming from? Who is passing these out?" Democratic Rep. Jimmy Gomez tweeted. Rep. Jimmy Gomez (@RepJimmyGomez) February 1, 2023 In another tweet, Gomez noted that Luna had worn the pin at an Oversight hearing less than 48 hours after her state of Florida experienced a mass shooting that wounded 11 people. "This isn't the flex you think it is," Gomez said. The mystery of the lapel pins has now been solved. Republican Rep. Andrew Clyde from Georgia owns a gun store and has now taken responsibility for handing them out. "I hear that this little pin I've been giving out on the House floor has been triggering some of my Democrat colleagues," he said in a video posted to Twitter. "Well, I give it out to remind people of the Second Amendment of the Constitution and how important it is in preserving our liberties." He also invited other representatives who wanted a pin to stop by his office. The congressman owns Clyde Armory in Athens, which makes millions selling military-style rifles, body armor, ammunition, and other weapon accessories. His handing out of the lapel pins comes after there have been an estimated 54 mass shootings in the United States so far this year, according to the Gun Violence Archive. Democratic Rep. Cori Bush noted that lawmakers wore the pins during National Gun Violence Survivors Week. Other Democratic lawmakers also commented on the pins, with Rep. Dina Titus tweeting: "Weapons of war have no place on our streets, much less on our lapels." Clyde is not the only Republican lawmaker to be handing out unusual objects Rep. Cory Mills handed out inert grenades to his colleagues as a welcome gift last week. Read the original article on Business Insider Wyandotte County commissioners considered ways to provide relief to residents at a Thursday night public meeting, after many expressed that they were struggling to pay a controversial fee placed on their utility bills. The commissioners said they would look into reducing the fee for residents or eliminating it altogether after many were frustrated over having to pay an added tax to the Unified Government of Wyandotte County on top of every electricity and water bill managed by the Board of Public Utilities. The PILOT fee, which stands for payment in lieu of taxes, helps the Unified Government manage revenue losses from property taxes that are not collected from the BPU, since they are tax exempt. The money is used to help fund city operations. Residents unable to pay the bill, including the PILOT fee, risk being disconnected from the public utility. As it stands, the tax the Unified Government adds on to every Board of Public Utilities bill is far higher than comparable utility company fees across the country. Whereas comparable fees tax around 5.5% on average, Wyandotte County residents are taxed at 11.9%, according to the American Public Power Association. The tax has been a major complaint among residents for months, with many arguing the fees are not affordable to the average tax payer. Louise Lynch, who co-founded the Community Conscience Action Network and also spoke at the meeting, called for the fee to be eliminated entirely. To continue, month after month, begging BPU for help is ridiculous I came in September to speak about this issue, she said. We need to get rid of it totally. We cannot afford it. Lynch has worked alongside Ty Gorman, a spokesman for the Kansas Chapter of the Sierra Club, which is a grassroots organization advocating for environmental policy, to rally residents in favor of eliminating the tax. They have hundreds of dollars in fees that are unrelated to utility costs and they basically cut people off for not being able to pay them, Gorman said following a December BPU meeting, where he and other residents prompted the utility to advocate for changing the tax. Story continues An amendment to the Unified Government charter ordinances that would split the fee into different rates for residents and commercial businesses was proposed, but quickly tabled so that further research could be done on how to provide tax relief to the people most in need. A committee led by District 1 Commissioner Melissa Bynum plans on presenting the Unified Government in March with options on how to break down the fee and what it would cost the government to reduce the tax. Based on the data alone you all need to be warned how hard this will be to bring PILOT relief, Bynum said in the meeting. She explained that even a 1% reduction in the fee could cost the government over $1 million. Bynum said her committee was looking for ways to reduce the tax for people within a certain income bracket, age, or race, in an effort to provide the most relief to the people disproportionately struggling to pay the fee. Less than a quarter of the Unified Governments revenue comes from the PILOT fee and a majority of the accounts paying the tax are residential. District 7 Commissioner Chuck Stites welcomed the idea of removing the tax, but like the majority of commissioners, appeared confused over how the fee got so high. Some time ago it was raised with the expectation that it would be reduced. Do we have any information as to why? Stites said to Board of Public Utilities General Manager Bill Johnson during the meeting. Johnson explained that due to falling revenue and rising expenses in 2009, the Unified Government and Board of Public Utilities agreed to raise the PILOT fee from 9.9% to 13.8%, and since then it has dropped to the current rate. He could not remember what the Unified Government had agreed to do to lower the rate further. These are tax dollars that are levied against utility revenue and the people in this room are the ones who are paying for it, he said. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has held a telephone conversation with British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak. Source: Zelenskyy on Twitter, as reported by European Pravda Speaking with @RishiSunak, I thanked for start training crews on Challengers. We talked about further expanding the capabilities of the army, all-round support for Ukraine in the short & long term. I emphasized: representatives of the aggressor have no place at @Paris2024. (@ZelenskyyUa) February 4, 2023 Quote: "Speaking with Rishi Sunak, I thanked him for starting the training of Ukrainian crews on Challenger [tanks]. We talked about further expanding the capabilities of the Ukrainian army, and all-round support for Ukraine in the short and long term. I emphasized: representatives of the aggressor have no place at the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris," Zelenskyy tweeted. Earlier, the UK Ministry of Defence posted some photos of Ukrainian tank crews learning to operate Challenger 2 tanks. As reported, Defence Minister Ben Wallace said that the tanks that the UK promised to send to Ukraine will arrive at the front before the summer. The British government has promised to provide 14 tanks. Journalists fight on their own frontline. Support Ukrainska Pravda or become our patron! President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has signed documents regarding people who were found to have Russian citizenship. Source: Presidents evening speech Quote: "Today, I signed the relevant documents to take another step to protect and cleanse our state from those on the side of the aggressor. There is a request from the Security Service regarding persons who were recorded as having Russian citizenship." Details: As Zelenskyy has said, "another legal step will be taken to implement the sanctions decisions of the National Security and Defence Council" on Sunday. "And we are working to synchronise our sanctions decisions with partner jurisdictions. The enemies of the free world have no right to use the free world for their own interests," the President stressed. The President once again pointed out that the situation at the front is "getting tougher". "Now is that time again. The time when the occupier throws more and more of its forces to break our defences. Now, it is very difficult in Bakhmut, Vuhledar, near Lyman, and on other fronts. But now, same as every day of these 346, the resilience of our soldiers decides everything. To preserve all elements of our resilience is to guarantee victory," he said. Background: On 3 February, Zelenskyy stated that the National Security and Defence Council of Ukraine had prepared new sanctions decisions, and decrees on the introduction of sanctions had been prepared as well. Journalists fight on their own frontline. Support Ukrainska Pravda or become our patron! , Feb 05 ( Japan Today ) - The 73rd Sapporo Snow Festival began in Sapporo, Hokkaido, on Saturday. The festival, featuring more than 160 ice and snow sculptures, is open to the public for the first time since 2020. It was held online only in 2021 and 2022 due to the coronavirus. This years event also marks the 100th anniversary of Sapporo being incorporated as a city. The festival, which runs until Feb 11, is being held at two venues Otori and Susukino. The Tsudome venue is not being used this year. Organizers said that some anti-coronavirus measures will be in place. There will be no food and beverage booths, visitors are asked to wear masks, while the number of people at viewing spaces and on walkways will be restricted to prevent crowding. ...continue reading A hospice care facility has been fined $10,000 after healthcare workers mistakenly declared a woman in their care dead. The woman, according to a report from the Iowa Department of Inspections and Appeals, was discovered alive more than two hours later inside a body bag at a funeral home. The 66-year-old woman was admitted to the hospice care unit of Glen Oaks Alzheimers Special Care Center in Urbandale on Dec. 28 due to senile degeneration of the brain, the report filed Wednesday, Feb. 1, states. As the patients condition worsened, a staff member noted signs she died in the early morning hours of Jan. 3. (The worker) reported the residents eyes were open, the report states. She felt her neck at the carotid artery and listened to her chest. She did not feel a pulse and the resident was not breathing at that time. She felt the resident had passed away and notified the nurse. At 6 a.m., a nurse assessed the womans condition for five minutes and also believed she had died. The facility then called the womans family member and funeral home, according to the inspectors report. The director of a funeral home arrived at 7:38 a.m. and put the woman inside a cloth bag and zipped it shut, according to the report. But when funeral home workers unzipped the body bag at 8:26 a.m., they found the womans chest moving and her gasping for air, the inspector said. Paramedics registered a pulse on the woman, but said there was no eye movement, no verbal or vocal response and no motor response. She was readmitted to the hospice facility and died two days later with her family at her side, according to the report. The states inspector said the hospice facility did not treat the resident with dignity and did not provide her appropriate care. A month-long investigation led to the state imposing a $10,000 fine. We care deeply about our residents and we remain fully committed to supporting their end-of-life care, Lisa Eastman, the executive director of the facility, said in a statement to the Des Moines Register. All of our employees are given regular training in how best to support end-of-life care and the death transition for our residents. The Urbandale facility is about 8 miles from Des Moines. Healthiest states for seniors Which states are the most and least healthy for senior populations? #50. Mississippi #49. Louisiana #48. Kentucky #47. West Virginia #46. Oklahoma #45. Alabama #44. Arkansas #43. Nevada #42. Missouri #41. New Mexico #40. Georgia #39. Tennessee #38. Texas #37. Ohio #36. South Carolina #35. Indiana #34. North Carolina #33. Illinois #32. New York #31. Michigan #30. Pennsylvania #29. New Jersey #28. Florida #27. Kansas #26. California #25. Wyoming #24. Alaska #23. Arizona #22. North Dakota #21. Iowa #20. Montana #19. Delaware #18. Rhode Island #17. South Dakota #16. Virginia #15. Idaho #14. Wisconsin #13. Maine #12. Oregon #11. Nebraska #10. Massachusetts #9. Maryland #8. Washington #7. Hawaii #6. New Hampshire #5. Colorado #4. Connecticut #3. Minnesota #2. Vermont #1. Utah Police officers deployed outside the Secretariat also refused to divulge any information on the incident. (DC Image/ Deepak Deshpande) HYDERABAD: After the fire incident early on Friday morning, at least five platoons of armed police personnel were deployed at the Secretariat. Initially, the police had claimed that the fire was a minor one. Later, they said that it was a drill for fire, police and emergency services personnel. Unlike other days, when there is relatively less force outside the premises, the deployment of a large number of personnel raised questions. Further, nobody was allowed to the spot where the fire broke out. The media was also not allowed to enter the Secretariat premises, citing "instructions from the top". Police officers deployed outside the Secretariat also refused to divulge any information on the incident. Commuters who tried to stop their vehicles to look at the building were asked to move away. The government of Rwanda and Alibaba have agreed to establish the first Electronic World trade Platform hub in Africa and to enable products from eastern African region to reach more than half a billion consumers of Alibaba, reports say. The deal is expected to spur the economic development and digital economy of Rwanda and ensure trading of Rwandan products and facilitate tourism in the African country. The Chinese platform will also ensure the improvement in the quality of products for trading in the worlds second economy. Several brands of Rwandan single origin coffee are reportedly already getting a good response in the worlds largest online product selling platform. Alibabas online travel platform Figgy and Rwandan Development board will work together to promote Rwanda tourism to Chinese customers. Per the deal, Alibaba will also continue supporting Rwandan entrepreneurs through eFounders Fellowship program. UNCTAD and Alibaba are training 1,000 entrepreneurs and two hundred of them will be from Africa. Five Rwandan entrepreneurs have already graduated. Alibaba has also organized Global E-commerce Talent Program (GET) which is a five-day course and 50 university lecturers across Rwanda have joined there to deepen their knowledge in e-commerce. I had the good fortune to meet and become friends with a gentleman named Roberts Koepple. Koepple was born in Latvia in the early 1930s. His mother was Latvian and his father was Estonian. Koepple was a walking history book and I asked him many time to let me write his life story, but he always seemed to dodge the question. Cancer took Koepple some years back, but I did learn a number of things from him over the years we were able to hunt and fish together. As a child, Koepple was destined to be a six-foot-plus, blonde-haired, blue-eyed individual, so he was basically kidnapped by the Nazis just before World War II began when the Germans overran his homeland. Koepple was put in a boarding school to learn the ways of Waffen SS troopers when he was about 10 years old. He eventually figured out what the Third Reich was all about and didnt want any part of it. When Koepple was about 16 he escaped from the Nazis and joined up with the Estonian Underground and fought Germans. Near the end of the war, the Germans were collapsing on the Estonians from one side and the Russians from the other. Regardless who got there first, the outcome would not be good. Koepple hatched a plan with another young man he knew from the Estonian Underground and they stole a 160-foot freighter, brought a group of refugees on board and sailed it across the Atlantic Ocean, in winter, and ran it aground in Newfoundland to seek political asylum. See why I wanted to hear about and write his life story? In addition to telling his amazing story of reaching North America, Koepple also taught me many things about ice fishing. Growing up in northern Europe, he had many months of ice to deal with and ice fishing was a very common way of getting food for the table. Koepple had adapted to the American way of ice fishing and had special jigging poles and tip-ups, but one day he pulled out what looked like a piece of -inch dowel about a foot long with fishing line wrapped around it and a hook on the line. A rubber band held the hook and line in place against the dowel when you werent fishing. What is that? I asked Koepple. That is a Latvian ice fishing rod, Koepple answered with a chuckle. He went on to explain that he had about 50 feet of line wrapped around the dowel. When he was younger and fished on the ice above the Baltic Sea, Koepple explained that he would have hundreds of feet of line on his dowel so he could reach the bottom and get to the cod fish. It requires a lot less fishing line to fish Nebraska Lakes, but the principle is the same. First you drill a hole in the ice. Next you pull the hook off your dowel, bait it and drop it down the hole to whatever depth you want the bait to be. Koepple showed me how to roll the rubber band back over the line to hold it temporarily in place and set the dowel so that it was positioned across the hole. Then the waiting started. When a fish grabbed the bait, it popped the line out from under the rubber band and spooled off the dowel as the fish ran with the bait. As soon as you grabbed the rod, you could begin winding up the line and reeling in the fish. Simple, but effective. Over the course of a day on the ice, Koepple would have a dozen or so of his fishing contraptions laid out on the ice. If the fish were biting you could have several of the Latvian fishing rods spinning on the ice at a time. It was a fun way to fish and these devices are very efficient for the task. Since then I have learned a few things to improve upon Koepples design. The first thing I did was to use a bigger dowel. Mine are typically 1 inches in diameter and about 18 inches long. They are less likely to get pulled through the hole when they are longer and easier to grab and pick up at this size. I drilled a small hole through the dowel at the center to tie off my line so it didnt spool totally off with a big fish. Next I painted half of the ends of the dowel so I could see it turning from a distance. There were several times while fishing with Koepple that we lost fish because we did not see that line was spooling off the dowel. The fish would often get off the hook since there was no back pressure applied trying to reeling it in. Over the years my design evolved to attach big sleigh bells on one end and a short length of brightly colored surveyors tape on the other end. Now I could both see and hear movement. A modern tip-up can cost $15 to $30 depending on the style you choose. My modified Latvian ice fishing rods cost about $3 per rod to make. They still catch fish and they give be a reason to think about an old friend when Im out on the ice. Oh, and the rubber band youll need for your Latvian ice fishing rod comes wrapped around your copy of the North Platte Telegraph each morning. Frog lure It is not too early to think about spring finishing. A new and improved lure that will be coming out on the market is the LIVETARGET Ultimate Frog. Its design blends biomimetic profiles, anatomical details and extremely realistic color patterns along with ultra-accurate motion/actions. This lure was recently awarded the Soft Lure category champion in the EFTTEX 2022 Digital Best New Product Showcase. Bass and northern pike anglers will want to check out this new lure, and even the occasional walleye will take a frog off the surface of the water. The design emulates a real frog when it is being retrieved and when it sits motionless it sits like a living frog at rest, with its eyes just above the surface, its body angled 45-degrees down and its legs contracted beneath its body. There will be two model to choose from. A Popper model and a finesse model. They will be offered in 2- and 2-inch sizes and in colors like green/yellow, emerald/brown, tan/brown, brown/black, black/black, fluorescent green/yellow, emerald/red and albino/white. The MSRP is expected to be about $18 per lure. Here's how to follow the Unicameral from afar Heres how to watch the Legislatures activities and follow bills by using the Unicamerals website at nebraskalegislature.org: Click on the Nebraska Public Media logo and look under Streaming Now or Coming Soon for the schedule of livestreamed floor debates and public hearings by committees. Floor debate also is telecast live by Nebraska Public Media on NE-W, formerly known as NET2 (Allo Communications Channel 11 or Spectrum Channel 190 in North Platte). If you know the number of a legislative bill or constitutional amendment, type it under Search Current Bills to call up the measures text and related votes and documents. (For the language of current state laws, type their number or keywords under Search Laws.) Computer users can leave comments of up to 500 words on individual bills by clicking the appropriate spot on the main page for that bill. If the bill hasnt yet had its public hearing, users may ask their comments to be included in the bills official hearing record. Such requests must be made by noon CT (11 a.m. MT) on the last work day before the hearing. Nebraskans with disabilities as defined in the Americans with Disabilities Act can do likewise but also can attach PDF files or supporting documents. Click on Hearing schedules on the main Unicameral webpage, choose the appropriate week and click either Submit Comment Online or ADA Accommodation Testimony, depending on whether you qualify for the latter. The Unicameral website offers many other documents for understanding and following the Legislature, including its online Unicameral Update newsletter. Todd von Kampen lol I'll probs start watching this over the weekend. eta: and if anyone asks, I will be watching purely for language learning purposes. Edited at 2023-02-03 11:18 pm (UTC) Reply Thread Link Normally, I hate and will not use the dubbing for foreign content. However, in this one case I wasn't really paying attention when it started. The dubbing is absolutely hilarious. Some of the VO people try and match their dubee but there's a good third that are either way too over the top or read the dialogue in monotone. I still connected with the actual people on the show, but the dubbing budget was clearly $.45 and a pack of Fruit Stripe gum. Some of the competition gets a bit repetitive bec they're weeding out so many people, but this last ep landed on a cliffhanger and I yelled out NO! at my TV. Edited at 2023-02-03 11:21 pm (UTC) Reply Thread Link I went to school with one of the participants but hes not on the Marie Claire list so I assume he's not that popular, lol. The concept of the show is not for me, it kinda looks like wrestling/MMA fights which I'm not a fan of. Edited at 2023-02-03 11:20 pm (UTC) Reply Thread Link Out of the 3 tasks, this is the only MMA-esque one so far.The first one is them hanging from a suspended grate and the third is putting together a bridge. That clip is with the 47-year old MMA fighter but the rest isn't quite like that (so far) Reply Parent Thread Link I didnt like the guy who fought Chunri. He def got a villain edit and deserved it. I actually dont think they should have allowed men to fight women, especially him (forgot his name). Hes an MMA fighter! I think there were four or five man-woman matchups and only one woman won. Its also actively wild theyd have an exercise hobbyist fighting an mma fighter cuz theres like twenty of them there. Or a musical theatre actor fighting a bodybuilder lmao. I love the general air of respect all the other contestants have. I hope they make a season 2 and bring Bulkup back. And Im glad that white man was eliminated, he was annoying. Reply Thread Link Found the Gwen Stefani of #Physical100 pic.twitter.com/Fh2zhMwePL Go Won's Turtle Protector (@HalfAWreck) January 27, 2023 How many MMA fighters are in this competition I wonder Reply Parent Thread Link I think this dude is a tv personality and they def love foreigners who come here speaking the language and acting like the Korean equivalent of brother from another mother so I aint mad get the bag. Just do it where Im not watching. Reply Parent Thread Link Of the 100 who started 15-20 gotta be mma fighters, and then another 15 are bodybuilders. And then you got chefs, car salesmen, and a child lmao Reply Parent Thread Expand Link Okay this my last thing: I started to ship that one woman-man matchup with the rugby player and the wrestler. They look like a good match lmao Reply Parent Thread Expand Link I hated that guy too. It was gross the way he acted. Like he got off on pinning her down. Horrific. There were other male/female pairings and no one else acted that way so wtf Reply Parent Thread Link There are some serious misogynists on the show for sure. They really need to do something about how the show is set up. In a lot of cases (not all, but most) the men are going to be the top athletes each week which means they'll choose to save/work with other men and will also elect to compete against and eliminate the women because it's an "easy win" according to them. It really takes the fun out of things for me and, at that point, why have women on the show at all? Reply Parent Thread Link We started to watch it but it got repetitive fast. I already skipped through the first episode half way through. I couldnt believe they literally dedicated an episode to intros of people that you will forget by the 2nd episode and then those challenges went on FOREVER Reply Thread Link Yeah, episode are 30 m for me bc I skip the intros and backstories lol Reply Parent Thread Link I read the Forbes article about how contests were denied bathroom break, food wasnt provided on set, below freezing temps while doing Red light, green light. Reply Thread Link Think that was Squid Game:The Challenge or whatever it was called being filmed in the U.K. last month. This is a different show where the contestants just reference Squid Game continuously. Reply Parent Thread Link that is the squid game show, not this Reply Parent Thread Link You want me to get into a new Netflix show? In this economy?? Reply Thread Link Got a huge boost in popularity after BTS' Jungkook streamed himself watching it. lol also, idk if Netflix told them to do it or if they did it out of an abundance of caution, but WeVerse took down that stream probs due to copyright issues due to JK watching it while he was live. Reply Thread Link I was so peeved when I noticed - I was watching the original live with one eye assuming I can rewatch on WV and well :(( I also wonder if part of it isn't that BTS seem to have a deal with Disney+ so featuring Netflix in their content so obviously is a no-no. Reply Parent Thread Link Okay, I'm in Reply Thread Link The show is so good. Im a huge fan of korean variety shows, and its crazy to see a variety show blow up like this internationally. My favourite is the female wrestler Jang Eunsil, i hope her team wins!! I hate netflix for leaving that a cliffhanger. I also noticed how even though she was afraid of the bridge she still crossed it when her team needed her and then production made her and the other team leader stand in the middle to drop the one that lost Reply Thread Link I said aloud "if this ends in a cliffhanger I'll be so fucking mad!" and I was fucking furious!!! Shame on me for starting a show before it's over and I can binge it Reply Parent Thread Link FINALLY! I been talking about this since last week and none of yall know about it! The one guy I saw that i liked (he didn't get screen time) was eliminated. Well I like a lot of them but he was the hottest Reply Thread Link Hey now I posted about it in the WWW post. I liked BBULKUP just taking a stroll around the stadium lol Reply Parent Thread Link Sounds interesting, but I don't have Netflix and am too lazy to look for alternative methods. I saw Yun Sung-bin on a YouTube show last week and he was hilarious. I'm not surprised that the contestants are chill, though... idk, Asian reality shows have a different vibe overall compared to the ones in the US. edit: Okay, I just watched this and damn, he seems like a completely different dude. for comparison: Edited at 2023-02-04 12:17 am (UTC) Reply Thread Link i just started this! like im watchig it as i type lol! i've found its really funny for language elearning as i watch an ep without subs and see if i understand it then watch it with the funny as fuck dub ad it basically becmes a comedy cos its like all seemingly dubbed by the same dude and same woman and the dude says everything in the same monotone voice even really excited bits Reply Thread Link i was gonna watch it bc cha hyunseung is in it but I also just cbb lol Reply Thread Link Press Release February 3, 2023 Tulfo bills seeks to legalize 'ukay-ukay' Senator Idol Raffy Tulfo proposed to legalize and regulate the importation of "ukay-ukay" or imported second-hand garments and goods which already evolved as part of the Filipino Culture. Tulfo filed Senate Bill (SB) No. 1778 repealing Republic Act (RA) No. 4635 which prohibits the commercial importation of used clothing and rags. Although "ukay-ukay" business is deemed illegal pursuant to aforesaid law, there has been a proliferation of the "ukay-ukay" business because of the ineffective implementation of the applicable law banning it. "The 'ukay-ukay' industry has evolved as part of the Filipino Culture. It goes without saying that the revenue-generating industry has generated jobs for our fellow Filipinos. However, it must be regulated by the proper government agencies to ensure its compliance with applicable laws," read the bill's explanatory note. "Pursuant to the proposed bill, the P18 billion industry will no longer be an underground enterprise since it will be duly registered and its revenues audited for accountability by the proper government agencies," it added. It can be noted that prior to filing SB NO. 1778 Tulfo raised the idea of legalizing the commercial importation of "ukay-ukay" last year as he noted the failure of the Bureau of Customs (BOC) to control its influx in the country. He then lamented that small-time sellers are obliged to pay taxes while the importers are not paying their duties with the BOC. In filing the measure, Tulfo stressed the need to investigate the Bureau of Customs (BOC) and the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (EPZA) to ensure that "ukay-ukay" will not be smuggled and misdeclared as used rags that are free of taxes and duties. To stop smuggling, he said that all locators in EPZAs should have factories with proper machineries to process raw products/materials that will be re-exported and in turn generate money for the government. Previous Customs investigation found that certain locators inside economic zones, like Bataan, Laguna, Cavite, Cagayan, Baguio, Clark and Subic Freeport zones, use their privilege to import raw materials tax-free to smuggle used clothing in the guise of scrap fabric. These locators then sell the used clothing to dealers who then supply local "ukay-ukay" business owners. Tulfo likewise stressed the need to further consult the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), the local garment manufacturers and other stakeholders for their inputs to further improve his proposed bill. Tulfo bills seeks to legalize 'ukay-ukay' Senator Idol Raffy Tulfo proposed to legalize and regulate the importation of "ukay-ukay" or imported second-hand garments and goods which already evolved as part of the Filipino Culture. Tulfo filed Senate Bill (SB) No. 1778 repealing Republic Act (RA) No. 4635 which prohibits the commercial importation of used clothing and rags. Although "ukay-ukay" business is deemed illegal pursuant to aforesaid law, there has been a proliferation of the "ukay-ukay" business because of the ineffective implementation of the applicable law banning it. "The 'ukay-ukay' industry has evolved as part of the Filipino Culture. It goes without saying that the revenue-generating industry has generated jobs for our fellow Filipinos. However, it must be regulated by the proper government agencies to ensure its compliance with applicable laws," read the bill's explanatory note. "Pursuant to the proposed bill, the P18 billion industry will no longer be an underground enterprise since it will be duly registered and its revenues audited for accountability by the proper government agencies," it added. It can be noted that prior to filing SB NO. 1778 Tulfo raised the idea of legalizing the commercial importation of "ukay-ukay" last year as he noted the failure of the Bureau of Customs (BOC) to control its influx in the country. He then lamented that small-time sellers are obliged to pay taxes while the importers are not paying their duties with the BOC. In filing the measure, Tulfo stressed the need to investigate the Bureau of Customs (BOC) and the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (EPZA) to ensure that "ukay-ukay" will not be smuggled and misdeclared as used rags that are free of taxes and duties. To stop smuggling, he said that all locators in EPZAs should have factories with proper machineries to process raw products/materials that will be re-exported and in turn generate money for the government. Previous Customs investigation found that certain locators inside economic zones, like Bataan, Laguna, Cavite, Cagayan, Baguio, Clark and Subic Freeport zones, use their privilege to import raw materials tax-free to smuggle used clothing in the guise of scrap fabric. These locators then sell the used clothing to dealers who then supply local "ukay-ukay" business owners. Tulfo likewise stressed the need to further consult the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), the local garment manufacturers and other stakeholders for their inputs to further improve his proposed bill. TPCC chief A. Revanth Reddy's padayatra is expected to cover rural areas. (DC Image) HYDERABAD: AICC in-charge for Telangana, Manikrao Thakre on Friday reviewed the proposed padayatra of TPCC chief A. Revanth Reddy that will start on Monday after offering prayers to Sammakka-Saralamma in Mulugu district. Thakre is likely to finalise the schedule and route map of the padayatra after interacting with senior leaders at Gandhi Bhavan on Saturday. He will also elicit the opinions of the in-charges of the partys minority, BC, SC, and other wings'. Reddy's padayatra is expected to cover rural areas where he will meet farmers and unemployed youth to understand their issues. In the districts, Revanth Reddy's padayatra would go through urban localities second-tier towns and district headquarters. Thakre arrived in the city at 4 pm and was welcomed by TPCC senior leaders at the Rajiv Gandhi International Airport at Shamshabad. He then drove to Gandhi Bhavan, the state party headquarters. He is likely to meet some TPCC senior leaders including district Congress committee presidents on how to make a success of the padayatra. The only people who can pull these off are Jean Harlow and maybe Mina Le Reply Thread Link I like Mina's dedication to them but there have been times she arched too much lol. Reply Parent Thread Link mina le no. no. cute af and then those brows. I get it but still yikes. Reply Parent Thread Link I wanna see mina without them for a change Reply Parent Thread Link I know it's part of Mina's brand at this point but it is so distracting and I hate them. Maybe because I lived through seeing them but I don't want them back. Also, I feel like she shaved her brows and now draws them on? Reply Parent Thread Link people overreact to mina's just like some of the comments here. idk maybe i'm too young to hate thin brows like this lol. some ppl fit the look! Reply Parent Thread Expand Link this is so funny to me because I adore a thin 1920s brow (im a brow shaver lol and I literally wore a 20s makeup look incl brow last night) but i dont like how mina le does hers at ALL lol Reply Parent Thread Link Claudette Colbert as well. Reply Parent Thread Link Cool. Mine still haven't grown back from 2001. Reply Thread Link Now you're back on trend, babaaaayyy Reply Parent Thread Link what goes around comes around Reply Parent Thread Link Lol! Mine have mostly recovered, but my left eyebrow has just one patch that I had over plucked to hell back then and it just wont grow back so I always have a little bit of a bald spot on that brow Reply Parent Thread Link Ikr?! Took me forever to grow mine back. Reply Parent Thread Link I stopped waxing years ago and they never came back right. The one part of my body that I want excess hair lol. Reply Parent Thread Expand Link Lol same (from 1997-8). They still look better a bit filled in a bit. I feel like eyebrows are so particular to a persons face that eyebrow trends shouldnt matter that much. Reply Parent Thread Expand Link My sister's didn't either and she was so self-conscious about it that she got microblading done and she loves them. Reply Parent Thread Link I still remember my mom telling me in the mid-90s not to repeat her mistakes... and yet, here I am, forever repenting for my tweezing sins. Reply Parent Thread Link I've often heard eyebrow hair is the least likely to grow back. Idk the truth to that but based on anecdata it seems true. Reply Parent Thread Link Edited at 2023-02-04 05:28 am (UTC) dear goddess please deliver me from this hell Reply Thread Link the lowrise, eyebrows, dress-jeans, and capris coming in like horsemen of the apocalypse Reply Parent Thread Link Omg I used to love my capristhe ones like Madonna wears in the Beautiful Stranger vid Reply Parent Thread Link At least their idea of low-rise is really just our mid-rise Reply Parent Thread Expand Link Maybe the next comet will hit and safe us all Reply Parent Thread Link also i feel like hers are a shade too light. and: i'm for not following eyebrow trends because they frame your face. you don't mess with foundational elements unless it works for you.also i feel like hers are a shade too light.and: https://www.nylon.com/beauty/bella-hadid-bringing-back-y2k-skinny-eyebrow-trend Reply Thread Link That title.... Bella is HellBent on bringing them back, lol Reply Parent Thread Link Well I'd argue she's only capable of bringing back ugly shit so this is on brand lol Reply Parent Thread Link I never appreciated my eyebrows until I started loosing them. The doctors can't figure out why but OMG does it make a difference to how I look. Reply Parent Thread Link I'm sure you've explored this already but wonky thyroid function can obliterate your eyebrow hair--it runs on my mom's side of the family and they've all got really sparse brows (I've been lucky in that respect but mine was also caught and treated at a very young age!) Either way, I hope you can figure it out soon! Reply Parent Thread Expand Link omg same. I tweezed the fuck out of mine and now they're gone. I use Anastasia brow micro pen every day to create brows I don't have. I wished I never did the skinny brow shit. Reply Parent Thread Link I agree! I think some people can pull off a skinny eyebrow and look fine and others cant. My eyebrow hair is actually very thick so the first time this was popular, even though I did have a skinny brow it looked thick and it looked OK on me. Until I went too thin of course lol. Even now, when thick brows were in, I never let mine get too thick. I found a shape and size that worked for me and just stuck to it. Reply Parent Thread Link some random white talentless nobody got a bad tweeze job and now it's a trend? i think not Reply Thread Link Doja has been sporting thin eyebrows recently too, def coming back. Reply Thread Link Doja's eyebrows change by the day, tho. Reply Parent Thread Link In a way I should be flattered Gen Z is determined to make the same fashion and beauty mistakes millennials did Reply Thread Link I feel like Obi Wan yelling at Anakin that he was supposed to bring balance to the force, not go to the dark side. These dumb youths were supposed to be smarter than us. Reply Parent Thread Link but we don't know anything and they're sooooo smart and the first to do anything in the history of life. lol. Reply Parent Thread Link Nah after their tidepod antics, there was no hope. Reply Parent Thread Link I'm gonna die if they bring back the sequined butterfly crop tops that were from Wet Seal. Reply Parent Thread Expand Link next they need to sport some dream matte mousse thats several shades too orange for their skin Reply Parent Thread Expand Link it'd be an improvement from their current fashion nightmares. Reply Parent Thread Link It looks good on Nicola Reply Thread Link Ladies, stop ruining your face for trends. Buccal fat removal and fucking up your eyebrows for life is not worth a year or two of being "on trend". Reply Thread Link buccal fat removal is like...age does that for you naturally! It's going to look monstrous when they hit their 40s Reply Parent Thread Link Brow trends are so weird to me. Just go with your personal preference and what you feel suits your face best. Reply Thread Link i remember when threading made the jump from the south asian diaspora to everyone else and... those were dark times for me. i swear i spent the last two years of HS looking like a pissed off owl (or just an owl) because i have a natural, witchy arch on top of intense deep set eyes. wasn't cute! i've learned that, for me, natural is best (no matter how jankily patchy they get when i'm stressed out). Edited at 2023-02-04 06:13 am (UTC) Reply Parent Thread Link I'm so lucky that mine grew back! I used to haphazardly pluck at them, while having no idea what I was doing. They're naturally pretty thick and I've grown to love them like that. Reply Parent Thread Link just like jeans trends, just wear what you think looks best on you Reply Parent Thread Link Me being young and stupid, tweezed my brows to hell and now they're non existent. Wish I never did that. Reply Parent Thread Link I agree, but that's to be said of all trends imo Reply Parent Thread Link in the words of paramore "i refuse i refuse I REFUSE!" Reply Thread Link whoaaaaaaa i never meant to braaaag~ but misery business indeed, these eyebrow trends. Reply Parent Thread Link it kinda stuck with me, idk why anyway I have neither thin nor thick brows, but probably lean more towards "full". I hate the thin brows trend, I think it looked bad then and it looks bad now. Am embarrassed recalling how much time I spent plucking and shaping mine. #neveragain there was a poem I read in high school, by an Iraqi girl who hated the skinny brow trend, bc she loved her thick full brows but they weren't considered beautiful by society or somethingit kinda stuck with me, idk whyanywayI have neither thin nor thick brows, but probably lean more towards "full". I hate the thin brows trend, I think it looked bad then and it looks bad now. Am embarrassed recalling how much time I spent plucking and shaping mine. Reply Thread Link Doja Cat has been doing the pencil-thin brows too. Reply Thread Link https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SSjGBhEY8Z4 She shaved them off Reply Parent Thread Link Pencil-thin brows are usually drawn-in due to shaving them off. Reply Parent Thread Link the link in the tweet doesn't work and I can't find the news anywhere else, is it possibile that it has been deleted? Reply Thread Link lol, just noticed that the tweet is from March 2022. Nice to see ONTD has its finger on the pulse. Reply Parent Thread Link I have just noticed it as well , it's from 1 year ago and if I google the quote "I am ashamed to be Russian." + Depardieu one of the few results I get is ONTD Reply Parent Thread Link I'm mad that he's such a shitty person and a drunk because I loved him in Green Card and Last Holiday. :( Reply Thread Link he also has several accusations of sexual assault Reply Parent Thread Link being a drunk doesn't necessarily mean he's a bad person -- but the assaults and the politics def do Reply Parent Thread Link You're absolutely right; it doesn't make him a bad person. Unfortunately, he's the sort that considers excessive drinking as a personality trait and it's made him unhireable. The assaults and politics are the the worst parts and definitely add to the icing on the cake. :( Reply Parent Thread Expand Link I loved him as obelix in the asterix movies and was dissapppointed to learn about him later on Reply Parent Thread Link Green Card was great, and i remember loving him in My Father the Hero with bb Katherine Heigl. Oh well. Reply Parent Thread Link April 2022? Also, why is the tweet from Reply Thread Link Oh no shame on me. I was ready to enjoy myself Reply Parent Thread Link There are no rules to say the fun has to end! Reply Parent Thread Link March Reply Parent Thread Link Ngl, it pisses me off when Westerners accuse refugees from war torn countries of 'taking advantage' to flee to Europe or North America, but then they pull shit like this. Reply Thread Link If America ever becomes war-torn, I bet top dollar those same westerners will claim asylum in Europe or some country that is still in good standing with the US.all while talking shit about how the country they escaped to sucks. Reply Parent Thread Link Your comment reminds me of Day After Tomorrow when Americans were fleeing the winter apocalypse by crossing the Rio Grande. Chef's kiss scene. Edited at 2023-02-04 07:21 pm (UTC) Reply Parent Thread Expand Link They do this now, lmao. I live in Berlin and you talk to any UK/US "expat" (never immigrant) and all they do is piss and moan about how much Germany sucks, they can't find whatever obscure food/item/whatever that's common back home here, everyone insists they speak German, housing is too hard to find (like it isn't for everyone) dating sucks because Germans are too 'weird,' blah blah blah. Reply Parent Thread Expand Link the first place they'll go is Canada and I don't need that in my timeline. Reply Parent Thread Link Gerard Depardieu Loses Appeal to Have Rape Charges Dropped, Remains Under Formal Investigation https://t.co/Iv17O97y3l Variety (@Variety) March 10, 2022 Yeah, fuck you Reply Thread Link Goddammit. Disgusting. Last Holiday is one of my comfort films so this is disappointing Reply Parent Thread Link Throw him into the sea. Reply Thread Link It's been almost a year; hopefully someone did so! Reply Parent Thread Link Is this the last thing we heard about him Reply Parent Thread Link How did you even find this in 2023 lmao also he can die at any time. Reply Thread Link I hope France told his ass "Sorry...no backsies!" He gave up French citzenship to save on taxes, fuck him lol. Reply Thread Link Can we all talk about how wild my father the hero actually is? I remember watching that movie in theaters and loving it. And how Katherine Heigl was sixteen max when it was filmed!? Reply Thread Link we hate movies did an episode on it. it's wild. Reply Parent Thread Link Ok I thought of this movie while reading the post and was like Im misremembering, theres no way the plot of that movie is a teenager and her dad pretending to be a couple while on vacationoh, no that is the plot. Reply Parent Thread Link As I recall, it was a one-sided lie on on the girl's part and the dad freaked when he found out what she'd been telling people, although I think she may have convinced him to keep up the act for a while after that. Still a questionable premise. Reply Parent Thread Link and she wore a scandalous thong bathing suit in one scene IIRC! Weird ass movie in retrospect Edited at 2023-02-05 05:25 am (UTC) Reply Parent Thread Link Unless you can find a more recent source, please delete the post. Reply Thread Link French actor Gerard Depardieu in an interview to a German media Augsburger Allgemeine said he still felt like a Russian person. He says that since 2013 (when he received Russian citizenship) his attitude towards Russia hasn't changed. No comments. pic.twitter.com/8UnuBZzScd Anton Gerashchenko (@Gerashchenko_en) February 4, 2023 The most recent news I found about him are from today and say he loves Russia lol. Maybe OP meant to post the contradictory news. https://www.tellerreport.com/news/2023-02-04-depardieu-said-that-his-attitude-towards-russia-after-the-start-of-the-nwo-has-not-changed.Sy41Gj3i2o.html The most recent news I found about him are from today and say he loves Russia lol. Maybe OP meant to post the contradictory news. Reply Parent Thread Link Hmmmm Reply Parent Thread Link The other day a podcaster was making jokes about a new film starring Gerard Depardieu and I was like ??? How the fuck is he in a proper movie in this day and age? It took me several minutes to realise he was actually talking about Gerard Butler. My brain is firmly in the off position. Reply Thread Link https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0000367/ I firmly believe that harvey weinstein was only punished because he was getting bothersome economically, so everyone dropped him and stopped covering for him, otherwise no one else (Allen, Polanski, Depp, Spacey, Pitt, the list can go on...) has been really cancelled and I firmly believe that the industry is ready to embrace them whenever they want he STILL is on films, no one really cares, white men can get away with anything and cancel culture does not existsI firmly believe that harvey weinstein was only punished because he was getting bothersome economically, so everyone dropped him and stopped covering for him, otherwise no one else (Allen, Polanski, Depp, Spacey, Pitt, the list can go on...) has been really cancelled and I firmly believe that the industry is ready to embrace them whenever they want Reply Parent Thread Link I meant more American blockbusters, but youre not wrong Reply Parent Thread Expand Link It's not like Vladdy has changed. Also, he's a piece of shit trying to claim refugee status as a tax cheat. Edited at 2023-02-04 08:13 pm (UTC) Reply Thread Link We need to stop trying to cancel peoples careers and focus on canceling their lives. Reply Thread Link Beijing has both the motivation and the ability to take a leading role in inspiring a change of course by North Korea. The existential North Korean nuclear and missile threats negatively impact the Asia-Pacific security environment for the United States, South Korea, Japan and Australia. In response, these countries have taken countermeasures to defend themselves against the growing danger from North Korea. As a result, North Koreas nuclear and missile capabilities indirectly worsen Chinas security dilemma by spurring the U.S. and its allies to devote greater resources to maintaining a strong security presence in Northeast Asia. This situation is illustrated by Beijings consistent criticism of Seoul for allowing the deployment of the U.S. Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) anti-ballistic missile defense system in South Korea since 2017. Although South Korea has sought to reassure China that the system is aimed at counteracting the threat from North Korea, Beijing has maintained that the presence of the U.S. THAAD in Korea clearly undermines Chinas strategic security interests (PRC Ministry Foreign Affairs [FMPRC], August 10, 2022). Although China has been accused of not putting enough effort into the denuclearization process, achieving success in eliminating nuclear weapons from the Korean peninsula would serve Chinas security interests in several ways, including by removing a powerful justification for the U.S. and Chinas neighbors to devote resources to regional security. In part due to North Koreas growing missile capabilities, South Korea, Japan and Australia have all recent strengthened their respective missile development programs. In 2021, the United States also lifted the restrictions it had imposed on South Korea limiting the range and payload of its ballistic missiles. According to previous South Korea president Moon Jae, this has removed security shacklesallowing South Korea to regain its missile autonomy (Korea Herald, May 22, 2021). New Approaches in Japan, South Korea In 2022, with new leadership under President Yoon Suk Yeol, Seoul has supported steps to expand and normalize THAAD operations in South Korea, making technical upgrades and allowing an additional eight acres of land to house the system (South China Morning Post, August 12, 2022). The PRC has criticized the move for contravening the three noes, which had become an operating principle for China-South Korea relations advanced by previous President Moon Jae-in: no further THAAD deployments; no joining U.S.-led missile defense networks; and no participation in a trilateral military alliance with the U.S. and Japan (Korea Herald, July 28, 2022). The Moon administration had previously used the Three Noes to reassure China, which helped stabilize relations in late 2017, following a diplomatic fracas triggered by Chinas economic retaliation against South Korea following the initial deployment of the U.S. THAAD earlier that year to counter the threat from North Korea (China Brief, March 31, 2017). Not only has South Korea changed its approach to security of late, but Japan has also moved to augment its military might. In November 2022, the ruling Liberal Democratic Party, along with its junior coalition partner, Komeito, reached a consensus that Japan should seek to acquire counter-strike capabilities in order to address the rapidly worsening regional security environment (Kyodo News, December 2, 2022). While Chinas military modernization has played a key role in this deteriorating regional security environment, so too have North Koreas nuclear development and activities. In fact, a real possibility exists that Tokyo will even purchase Raytheon-made Tomahawk cruise missiles (The Defense Post, November 30, 2022). Australia, too, has sought to focus on developing its cruise missile capabilities (Australian Defense Magazine, September 29, 2022). Would China Change Course? Recent developments concerning North Korea pose both traditional and non-traditional security challenges to China. While North Koreas recalcitrance leaves China with neighbors strengthening their militaries, the continuing North Korean nuclear crisis presents other challenges as well. The most pressing issue is that as North Koreas economy struggles under the weight of international sanctions, imposed for its nuclear and ballistic missile development activities, a growing number of people will seek to flee north to China in search of a better life. Again, dealing with a nuclear North Korea that has aggressive and unpredictable tendencies is a concern for China as its largest trading partner and main economic supporter. Amidst these concerns, China could seek to play a more active and central role in promoting denuclearization of the Korean peninsula (Permanent Mission of the PRC to the UN, June 8, 2022). This is because, at this moment, only China and Russia are close enough to North Korea to have leverage with Pyongyang concerning the nuclear conundrum. The new leadership in South Korea is at loggerheads with Pyongyang, as opposed to the previous Moon government, which had a more cordial relationship with Kim Jong Un. Hence, China has both the motivation and the ability to take a leading role in inspiring a change of course by North Korea. Also, China has an incentive to ensure that the sanctions on North Korea imposed by the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) are slowly lifted so that the North Korean economy does not implode further, which would have spillover effects on China (Xinhua, May 12, 2022). Chinas role in the North Korean nuclear crisis has become more prominent as Pyongyang has called off the self-imposed moratorium on testing nuclear weapons and long-range missiles it had observed since late 2017 and has resumed intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) tests (Yonhap News Agency, November 18, 2022). Chinas role in the nuclear issue has also gained more prominence as doubts are cast on Beijings intentions to ensure a nuclear weapons-free North Korea that would result in a nuclear weapons-free zone (NWFZ) on the Korean peninsula. Some observers believe that North Korea will conduct a seventh nuclear weapons test this year, which would be its first since 2017 (CTBO, September 3, 2017). For China, the first North Korean nuclear test in over half a decade could mean efforts by the U.S. to strengthen extended nuclear deterrence to protect its allies, Japan and South Korea (Huanqiu, November 22, 2022). In December 2022, Anthony Carullo, director of plans and policy at the U.S. Strategic Command, reaffirmed the U.S. commitment to South Korea regarding its extended deterrence that comprises both conventional and nuclear capabilities (VOV World, December 6, 2022). U.S. National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan also reaffirmed this commitment stating that [w]e are working within our alliances, with both the Republic of Korea and Japan, to develop an effective mix of tangible measures to this end and specific practical steps to take to strengthen the extended deterrence commitment (The Korea Times, December 1, 2022). This implies a strengthened nuclear environment in Chinas immediate neighborhood that Beijing would have to deal with. These developments are not positive signs for Taiwans own security, especially as Taiwan faces territorial disputes both in East China and South China Seas. While Senkaku/Diaoyu Island disputes remains an issue in the East China Sea, Taiwan claims sovereignty over all the islands in the South China Sea. In recent years, Taiwan has strengthened its military capabilities, including cruise missiles as well as holding live artillery drills. Hence, any military developments in the region will have a domino effect on Taiwan (India Today, August 9, 2022). Conclusion All these developments add to not just military pressures but also diplomatic pressures on China. Hence, China should play a more positive role in the North Korean denuclearization process by acting as a mediator. ADVERTISEMENT Some of the steps that could be adopted are: Educate North Korean leader Kim Jong Un on the advantages of sanctions being removed. Make the case to North Korea on the technological advantages of being a Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) member. Persuade Pyongyang to return to its self-imposed moratorium on nuclear and missile testing; also convince South Korea not to engage in any military drills to provoke tensions. This two-way process can instill confidence in both Korean counterparts. These measures could be discussed and analyzed by China, which could sketch out the impact these measures would have on North Korea and the Korean peninsula over the long run. The intersection of strategic competition between China and the U.S. and its allies and North Koreas growing nuclear capabilities underscores that Pyongyangs pursuit of its nuclear ambitions has security implications that reverberate not just on the Korean peninsula, but globally as well. By Jamestown.org More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: India is looking to capitalize on this emerging market while reducing its dependence on materials from Japan and South Korea. Via AG Metal Miner New-age steel technologies are exclusive to a select few nations around the world. For this reason, they can only be acquired with significant domestic R&D expenditures or from those countries that already possess them. Either way, these technologies are critical for producing specialized steel products. Among these are automobile-grade continuous annealed products (AGCAP), non-oriented electrical steel sheet, and grain oriented electrical steel. Electrical steel is essential to the ongoing renewable energy transition. However, future growth in the utilization of renewable energy sources will make such steel and its procurement even more challenging. Grain oriented electrical steel (GOES), for example, is a much sought-after commodity in the world today. This is because it is a crucial component in electrical transformers, which remain vital for the effective conversion, transfer, and utilization of electricity. Unfortunately, there are already shortages of GOES in many countries, including the U.S. Understanding its importance, countries like India and China are racing to develop indigenous capacities and cut reliance on imports. India Making New Strides in Specialty Steel The Indian Government recently established goals to increase productivity, modernize its power grid, and provide affordable electricity to all families. In this current market, these goals only continue to become more relevant. Indeed, India uses about 1,200 kWh of power per person per year. This is far less than the 2,700 kWh global average. However, meeting the growing demand for power and strong grid infrastructure for 1.4 billion people is no simple task. Going forward, it will require a massive investment in transformers. These, in turn, will require grain oriented electrical steel. Incidentally, India has one of the highest transformer failure rates in the world. Averaging in at around 25%, the failure rate is significantly higher than the global average of 5%. So, with all these factors in mind, the GoI has stepped up its GOES game in recent years. In July 2021, the Indian Government announced the Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme for manufacturing high-grade specialty steel. The initiative is just one part of the ongoing Make in India policy. The PLI has a budgetary approval of about US $848.93 million (Rs 63.22 billion), and the scheme will be implemented over five years. The initiative also extends to the production of domestic grain oriented electrical steel. This means that steel companies like Tata Steel and JSW Steel can now explore new opportunities to make and sell high-value steel products. Ultimately, the aim is to cut down Indias dependence on GOES supplies from Korea, Japan, and China. India Could Become a Grain Oriented Electrical Steel Powerhouse Thyssenkrupp became the first manufacturer of grain-oriented electrical steel in India when its JV plant became operational in 2018. A collaboration with Tata Steel, the 35,000-ton-per-year facility includes a magnesium oxide coating line and a laser system for high-quality surface treatment. It is also important to note that two-thirds of the companys order sheet are Indian customers. So far, Indias new plan has recently received attention from several foreign steel companies. In the closing days of 2022, Japans JFE Steel said it would soon decide on a joint venture in India with partner JSW Steel. The announcement stated that the goal was to produce electrical steel sheet used in power plant transformers. JFE President Koji Kakigi said the company was also thinking of developing a business in the higher-end field. In this case, the objective would be to create demand for a grain oriented electrical steel sheet together with JSW. The way things are going, India may emerge as a powerhouse in the next few years. This would apply to not only GOES, but also other high-valued steel products as well. Of course, if the countrys transformer failure rate came down, that would be the icing on the cake. ADVERTISEMENT By Sohrab Darabshaw More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: In a span of just 10 minutes, 32-year-old Joseph Jones entered a west Omaha Target store with an AR-15-style rifle, fired multiple shots and was killed by a responding police officer. On Friday, the Omaha Police Department released a timeline of events from Tuesdays active shooter situation at the Super Target near 178th Street and West Center Road. The timeline shows that Jones was shot dead by a responding officer seven minutes after the first 911 call was placed. Though Jones pointed the rifle at at least one person, it doesnt appear that he shot directly at anyone in the store firing instead at the ceiling, self-checkout machines and a drink cooler, according to police. No one else was shot or physically injured during the shooting. Police estimate that about 250 employees and customers were in the store at the time. According to the timeline, Jones arrived at Target at 11:49 a.m. in his personal vehicle. Six minutes after arriving, he removed a cardboard shipping box from the car and walked in the southeast grocery entrance wearing a dark coat and hat. At 11:57 a.m., Jones walked into the pharmacy area of the store. One minute later, he pointed the rifle at a Target employee before firing one shot into the ceiling. At 11:59 a.m., Jones took off his coat before firing two more shots: one in the direction of the self-checkout kiosks and one at a drink cooler. At the same time, the first 911 call came in alerting dispatchers to a shooting. Jones went back into the entrance vestibule and fired multiple rounds inside of it at noon. He exited the store briefly at 12:02 p.m. and then came back, firing another round as he re-entered, and then walked west throughout the store while holding the rifle. At 12:05 p.m., Officer Brian Vanderheiden and a Nebraska State Trooper arrived on the scene and entered through the southwest doors. Within seconds, they made contact with Jones, who was still holding the rifle. According to police, Jones was given more than 20 loud verbal commands to drop the rifle. He reportedly said Come on! three times as officers demanded that he drop the weapon before saying Ill kill you. Vanderheiden fired one round from his service handgun at 12:06 p.m., killing Jones. The interaction between Jones and the officers lasted about 15 seconds. Vanderheiden has been placed on paid administrative leave, as is department policy when a death occurs at the hands of law enforcement. The investigation is ongoing, according to police. Once it is completed, the case will be presented to a grand jury. On Tuesday, Project Harmony will host an event to connect those impacted with mental health resources and crisis counseling. Child care will be provided, and parents can speak with mental health professionals about the emotional impact their children may experience in the aftermath. The event will run from 7 to 9 p.m. Tuesday at the Project Harmony office, located at 11949 Q St. There is an option to attend virtually on Zoom, and a recording also will be made available afterward. Photos: Shots fired at west Omaha Target midday Tuesday From the witness stand, Haley Grim lowered her eyes, reliving the trauma of that Sunday night outside Omahas Westroads Mall. Her wails on the 911 call echoed off the walls of the snug fourth-floor courtroom at the Douglas County Courthouse. Franco! she screamed on the call, while she winced on the witness stand. Francooo! Come on, come on!! Frenetic, she shifted her attention from her boyfriend, Franco Vasquez, to the 911 operators, from pleas to him to stay awake to pleas to them to hurry up. Hurry ... hes gonna die! she said. Hes shot! Theres a lot of blood! At that, Grim, then 18, now 20, dabbed her nose with a tissue Friday. A juror blinked away tears. And the sobering contrast between adolescence and the very adult consequences of drug dealing and gun violence came into crisp view for the 12 jurors and two alternates gathered in Courtroom 409. The Douglas County jury is tasked with the question: Was Papillion resident JMaun Haynie, then 19, now 21, responsible for the attempted drug robbery that ended with Grim shot and Vasquez dead? Haynies defense team said prosecutors dont have enough evidence and urged jurors to acquit him at the end of the weeklong trial. Prosecutors told jurors in opening statements that theyll prove Haynie is guilty of first-degree murder and three other felonies through surveillance video, text messages, phone calls and DNA found in Grims car. Moments after the 11 p.m. shooting, paramedics, then police, arrived. As Grim was being loaded onto a gurney with a gunshot wound to her back, Omaha Police Officer Marcus Jensen asked a paramedic about Vasquez. The paramedic had tried but failed to find a pulse. He looks like hes dead, the paramedic told Jensen, according to Jensens bodycam. At that, Vasquezs mom shot out of her seat Friday and stormed out of the courtroom. They didnt try to resuscitate my son! she blurted at a sheriffs deputy providing courtroom security. She then whipped open the door. Later Friday, Haynies attorneys, assistant public defenders Lauren Walag, Leslie Cavanaugh and Kyle Melia, told a judge that Vasquezs mother had threatened Haynies family. Prosecutor Brenda Beadle said Haynies family also had made comments to Vasquezs loved ones. Judge Jim Masteller reminded the gallery to not make a peep or they would be escorted out. Fridays testimony didnt need help from the crowd. Beadle and prosecutor Michael Murer took jurors through the twisted events of that Sunday in September. Prosecutors will ask jurors to find Haynie guilty under either of two theories: that the murder was premeditated or that Vasquez died during the commission of another felony perpetrated by Haynie. Haley Grim had been with her boyfriend, Franco Vasquez, 18, on Sept. 12, 2021, when he planned to sell 1.5 pounds of marijuana for $3,500. Grim testified that she never took part in the sales, never took a cut of the proceeds, but she drove him places where mostly low-level marijuana deals went down. She testified tearfully, painfully, to losing her boyfriend, the boy she met in seventh grade. They began talking, which, as Beadle pointed out, is youth code for dating. They then moved on to Millard North High School. Sophomore year, Vasquez left Millard North for an alternative school before dropping out. Grim graduated from Millard North in May 2021. Two months later, she moved out of her parents house to an apartment of her own. After that, she said, she occasionally would drive Vasquez to deals most of which involved him slipping a baggie through a window crack and a customer slipping cash back to him. She estimated that she drove him to these deals about 15 times. That Sunday, Grim worked her job at a coffee shop, then picked up Vasquez so he could make a couple of deals, one in Benson, one near the Omaha zoo. They parted ways for a while, then Vasquez frantically called Grim to pick him up. Omaha police had pulled him over, he told her. He took off running and needed her to pick him up by a former school near the zoo. When she arrived, he gave her a reason he took off running: He had CBD in his car, which would have been enough to violate his probation for an earlier offense. He might still be alive if he had been taken into custody. Later that night, she saw him sorting marijuana. It was more than he usually dealt two large Ziploc bags full. He also was texting back and forth. He said they needed to go to Westroads Mall. About 10:30 p.m., surveillance video showed Grims white Volkswagen Jetta in the lot north of Dicks Sporting Goods, not far from where an alternative carnival was taking place. Shortly before 11 p.m., a red Ford Fusion pulled up near the Jetta. One young man with long dreads and a blue beanie got out and hopped into the back seat of Grims car, behind Vasquez. The man motioned for another man to come to the car. He hopped in behind Grim. Grim said she acted like she always did, minding her own business, her foot propped on the console of her Jetta, her head in her phone. Vasquez opened a satchel containing the marijuana. The two men pulled out guns. Dont make me shoot you in front of your girl, the man behind Vasquez said. Vasquez screamed for Grim to take off. She floored it. The man behind her struck her with the butt of his handgun. She testified she thought she was going to crash her car into Dicks Sporting Goods. She instead hit a pole between Dicks and JC Penney. Both men fired. Grim was hit in the back. Vasquez was hit three times. The two men took off running and hopped back in the red Ford. Not realizing she was hit, Grim frantically tried to stanch her boyfriends wounds, soaking her hands in his blood. As Omaha police and paramedics arrived, they found Vasquez motionless. Paramedics discovered Grim had been shot in the back. Loaded into an ambulance, Grim screamed: Ow, it hurts, it hurts! What about Franco? Grim wailed, according to an officers bodycam video. Is he okay? Is he okayyyy? Officer Jensen couldnt tell her what he had been told, for fear that it would send her health into further peril. He didnt tell her Vasquez was dead. Instead, he asked for Grims parents numbers so he could tell them to meet her at the hospital. No, my parents are going to kill me, she grimaced. Theyre going to be sooooo mad. Theyre going to be more concerned that youre OK, Jensen reassured. Crime-scene investigators found spent ammunition fired by two different caliber guns. The other alleged gunman, Izayah Mapp, is awaiting trial on similar charges. Will the evidence be enough against Haynie? Melia said no. After you hear all that evidence, (it) will show that Mr. Haynie is innocent of these crimes, Melia said. Murer said Grims description of the gunmans long hair perfectly matches Haynie. As Murer took jurors through that description, Haynie swiveled in the defendants seat, his long dreads draped over the back of the chair. Murer said the texts are even more telling. Vasquez and another man were texting about the price of the deal. The phone on the other end belonged to Haynie, he said. And a few days after the shooting, Murer said, Haynie and a relative texted in code about how the red Ford Fusion needed to disappear. It still hasnt been found. Crime-scene technicians also swabbed the rear-door handle of Grims Jetta. Murer said DNA tests will connect Haynie to that door. The trial is to resume Monday. LINCOLN Jayleesha Cooper said her life changed when she attended Holy Name School in Omaha. Where she was previously struggling in public school, Cooper said she thrived at the Catholic school. But she was only able to attend the school, she said, through a scholarship, even with her mother working multiple jobs. Theres no reason that a parent should have to sacrifice so much time with their children just to afford a quality education, Cooper said. She testified before the Nebraska Legislatures Revenue Committee Friday to support Legislative Bill 753, which introducer State Sen. Lou Ann Linehan of Omaha hopes will help more students like Cooper attend schools that cater to their needs. LB 753 would create income tax credits for donations to organizations that provide scholarships to attend private and faith-based schools, also known as parochial schools. The amount available for tax credits would start at $25 million in 2024, with annual increases of up to 25% possible in future years, although Linehan said she planned to bring an amendment that would push those increases back two years. The public hearing Friday stretched for more than five hours, concluding without a vote on whether to advance the bill. Other supporting testimony for LB 753 largely came from former students of parochial schools like Cooper, or people who have worked for them. They all attested to the value of private schools. Opponents were mostly made up of public school representatives, along with parents, policy groups and religious officials. They argued that LB 753 would harm public schools and Nebraska students while allowing private corporations to take advantage of state benefits. This system will bleed your funding and endanger the children you intend to help, said Vanessa Clark, dean of Trinity Episcopal Cathedral in Omaha. Linehan, the Revenue Committee chair, has made multiple attempts to pass similar measures in previous sessions, but those efforts failed to make it across the finish line and become law. This time around, she introduced the legislation with the support of Gov. Jim Pillen and has 29 state senators co-sponsoring it, including a few lawmakers who opposed the previous efforts. Pillen testified in support of LB 753 Friday, saying the bill was just one piece of his education plan for this year, which also includes increasing state dollars for public schools through a $1 billion education fund. He said the bill is not about pitting public schools against private schools, referencing a claim made by critics. We need both for a great quality of life, Pillen said. Linehan also took time to address claims made by opponents, which she said was misinformation. She said the bill would not support for-profit schools, nor would it take money away from public schools. She said the scholarships would be distributed to students through a tiered system largely based on need. Opponents disputed Linehans claims. The most common argument was that the money meant for LB 753 should support public schools instead. Cheryl Logan, superintendent of the Omaha Public Schools, said the $25 million that would be diverted from the general fund under the bill would be better served going to the states school funding formula. Money doesnt exist in one pot, Logan said. Its all connected. Sen. Kathleen Kauth of Omaha, a Revenue Committee member, pressed Logan on her opposition to the bill, saying she found it absolutely ridiculous that she would oppose a measure Kauth believes will help students receive a better education. Kauth asked Logan if she would like the state to get rid of other tax credits that go to support other causes like affordable housing. She didnt let Logan fully answer that question, and instead pressed Logan about OPS test scores, which she implied were low. Logan noted that OPS has both the highest and lowest performing schools in the state. Though she said it can be easy to generalize OPS as the largest district in Nebraska, the district serves students that most private schools would not enroll. Kauth is a co-sponsor of LB 753. In total, six of the eight members of the Revenue Committee, including Linehan, are sponsors of the bill. Several nonprofit representatives said encouraging donations to private schools under the bill would in turn discourage donations to public schools. Some opponents also said LB 753 would benefit wealthy Nebraskans receiving the tax credits more than it would actually help disadvantaged children. This bill is not about helping kids, said Tim Royers with the Nebraska State Education Association. Its about money. A few critics drew comparisons to other states that have passed similar measures, claiming such efforts lowered the quality of education in those states, and allowed corporations and for-profit schools to take advantage of the programs over time. The teacher shortage has given new life to the effort to junk basic-skills testing for Nebraska teachers. The Nebraska state teachers union and representatives of teacher-prep programs are calling again to get rid of the requirement, arguing that it would remove a roadblock thats keeping new teachers out of classrooms. Nine people testified in favor of repeal this week at a hearing held by the Nebraska Department of Education. The hearing was on a department proposal to repeal Rule 23, which requires basic-skills testing of new teachers. A department official called testing an unnecessary barrier that surrounding states dont have. No one testified in favor of testing. Opponents have tried before to eliminate testing, arguing that a single high-stakes test cant predict whos a good teacher and that applicants of color have a harder time passing the test, which prevents the hiring of more diverse teachers. The teacher shortage gripping Nebraska and the nation has given opponents a fresh argument. State lawmakers opened the door to repeal last year, approving a law that allows teachers to show competency by multiple measures such as course work or college entrance exams. Rules established by the Nebraska Department of Education, however, still require the basic-skills test. The state uses the Praxis Core test by ETS of Princeton, New Jersey, to test basic skills. If the board repeals Rule 23 and other references to testing in its rules, that would clear the way for new teachers to get certified without passing Praxis. Gov. Jim Pillen would have to sign off on the rule changes, which also would be reviewed by the Nebraska attorney general. In 2019, the Nebraska State Board of Education considered axing the test but backed off after then-Gov. Pete Ricketts expressed concern it would lower the bar for teachers. Since then, the teacher shortage has worsened. Removing any unnecessary barriers could drastically reduce the number of vacant teaching positions in Nebraska, said Christian Legler, assistant professor and chair of the educational foundations and leadership department at Wayne State College. According to a survey last fall by the Nebraska Department of Education, the number of reported unfilled teaching jobs across the state is up nearly 60% over the previous year. Unfilled positions are those either left vacant or filled by teachers not fully qualified for the area they will teach. Jackie Egan, speaking for a collaboration of organizations including Nebraskans for Peace, testified that getting rid of the Praxis wouldnt lower the bar. She said teacher candidates should be able to demonstrate quality teaching ability by being observed and evaluated while they work with students. Certainly portfolios, video tapes, recommendations from other experienced teachers and administrators would all keep our standards as high as possible, she said. She said student diversity in Nebraska is increasing while teacher diversity is not. A diverse teaching force should be of concern to many districts across the state, she said. Several towns have large Hispanic populations, certainly Grand Island, Scottsbluff, Lexington, Schuyler, Columbus. And one demographer predicts that Norfolk will be the next Hispanic-majority town in the state. There is no evidence, Egan said, that higher test scores produce better teachers, particularly for students of diverse racial linguistic and cultural backgrounds. Brad Dirksen, a department official, said the repeal would allow Nebraska to be more competitive in recruiting teachers as no other state that borders Nebraska requires basic skills competency examinations for certifications. Most research finds that certification exams are not strong predictors of teaching effectively, said Dirksen, administrator for the office of accountability accreditation and program approval at the Nebraska Department of Education. Basic skills competency examinations also add to costs for new educators. Dirksen said a bachelors degree and completion of an approved educator preparation program, including student teaching, demonstrate an applicant has the skills to be a teacher. Thirty-three states do not require a basic skills competency examination to be certificated as an educator, he said. Gene Russel, superintendent of the Ogallala Public Schools, said his district has three potential teachers, who would be a great fit for students and the community, who have their degree but cant pass the Praxis. Russel said a candidates Praxis score doesnt factor into hiring decisions. I have met zero superintendents or principals that have said, You know what, they were a great interview, they had great references, but gosh, their Praxis score was a 140. We really like it to be a 152 or something. Aurora Urwiler, a student at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln majoring in agricultural education, said the test has caused a lot of havoc in my journey to being a teacher. Many of Urwilers friends changed their majors because of the Praxis, she said. Urwiler took it 10 times before passing, costing her $1,260, she said. April Buschelman, president of the Nebraska Association of Colleges for Teacher Education, said teacher-education institutions want the repeal. NACTE is an organization of all Nebraska teacher-education institutions approved by the Nebraska State Board of Education. Buschelman said the states educator-prep organizations produce about 1,400 teachers each year and enroll about 3,000 students in their programs. While that may seem high, she said, the number of students enrolled in Nebraska teacher-prep programs has decreased by more than 1,500 in the past nine years. Sara Skretta, senior director of accreditation, placement and licensure in the College of Education and Human Sciences of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, said repealing the rule would address recruitment and retention. Eliminating the rule would level the playing field for all students wanting to be teachers-college students, who graduate from low-performing high schools, and adults who are returning as a second career and often struggled to pass the Praxis exam, she said. The test is a barrier to a diverse educator workforce, she said. According to ETS, the testing company, UNL had a 79% pass rate on the Core from Sept. 21 through Aug. 22. The demographic breakdown during that same time showed White students with an 82% pass rate while other populations passed at rates much lower, she said. Public school districts in the Omaha metro area Bellevue Public Schools Bennington Public Schools Douglas County West Community Schools Elkhorn Public Schools Fort Calhoun Community Schools Gretna Public Schools Millard Public Schools Omaha Public Schools Papillion La Vista Community Schools Ralston Public Schools Westside Community Schools BLOOMINGTON Two people are in custody after a domestic violence incident early Saturday morning in south Bloomington, police said. Sgt. Jeff Albee told The Pantagraph that officers were called around 4:20 a.m. Saturday to a stabbing on Valley View Circle. He said a man and a woman were transported to a hospital for non-life-threatening injuries, and have been treated. Both were taken into police custody after hospital staff released them, Albee said. The sergeant said investigators are still working the case, which involves domestic violence. No further information was immediately available. Former Congress MP Hanumantha Rao said that the Union government should drop its idea of selling the Vizag Steel Plant to the Adani Group. (Photo: Twitter) Hyderabad: Former Congress MP V. Hanumantha Rao said that the Union government should drop its idea of selling the Vizag Steel Plant to the Adani Group. He also wanted the Centre to take up an investigation into the industrialist Gautham Adanis ill-gotten wealth, Speaking to mediapersons at Gandhi Bhavan, Hanumantha Rao claimed that thousands of crores were written off when big business groups defaulted on their loans, and asked why those who deserved the loan waiver were made to suffer hardships. "The BJP government has already handed over ports, coal mines and steel plants. We shall strongly resist any move to sell the Vizag Steel Plant. It is high time that the government conducts a judicial inquiry into the allegations made against Adani and his businesses across the globe," he demanded. BLOOMINGTON The last day that Tommy Manns saw his son alive, they went out for breakfast. Timothy Q. Manns, known as Timmy to his family, asked his dad for a ride, and they traveled together to the restaurant. Like many young people, his father said, the 29-year-old typically hoped his "pops" would cover the bill. But not this time. "I got you, Pops," he told his father, who tearfully recalled the occasion in an interview with The Pantagraph last week. Apart from a phone call, it would be their last conversation before Timmy's death about a week later. Timmy Manns died at 8:45 p.m. Monday, Jan. 24, 2022, leading to the first homicide investigation in Bloomington-Normal last year. His death preceded the fatal shootings of 20-year-old Dylan Meserole on Feb. 12, 6-year-old Matthias E. Clemons and 32-year-old Brittney C. Harmon on March 8, and 17-year-old Kanye Stowers on April 9. Manns' was the first death by gunfire in 2022 and the only homicide from last year in which an arrest has been made. An analysis of shooting data by The Pantagraph shows the Twin Cities saw a decrease in homicides but an overall increase in reported gunfire incidents from the previous year. Information came from the Bloomington and Normal police departments as the result of Freedom of Information Act requests as well as from The Pantagraph's previous reporting. Among the takeaways: Bloomington police confirmed 43 shot fired incidents, and Normal police confirmed 20. Bloomington had five homicides, while Normal finished the year with none down from seven across both municipalities in 2021. Seven people in total died by gunfire, with two determined to be suicides. January and November tied for the months with the heaviest gunfire, with eight shots fired incidents reported across the Twin Cities. Bloomington had no gunfire reported in December. The McLean County Sheriffs Office reported no gunfire incidents in 2022. Despite a slight decrease in homicides, Bloomington-Normal's confirmed shots fired incidents were up from 40 reported in 2021. Comparatively in 2022, Peoria had 24 homicides, 20 of which were by gunshot; Springfield had seven total, five by gunshot; and Champaign had nine total, seven by gunshot, according to their police departments. McLean County State's Attorney Erika Reynolds said the community is to be credited for Bloomington-Normal consistently having fewer gun violence incidents than other Central Illinois cities. This community doesn't tolerate it That's why you don't see the numbers that you see in some of these other communities, she said. "As long as the community works in conjunction with law enforcement in not tolerating that type of behavior and we have community safety at the forefront, I think that those numbers will decrease even more over time." Bloomington Police Chief Jamal Simington said the department has adequate staffing and resources in its investigation division to make the caseload management but community cooperation is crucial. "We're only as good as our community, to be quite honest," Simington said. "We can't do it alone." In Normal, Police Chief Steve Petrilli said the town saw a "marked increase" in shots fired incidents over 2021, when nine were confirmed in total. A few shootings have taken place in close proximity to one another, the chief acknowledged, but he said a pattern of specific neighborhoods or businesses being targeted has not developed. "It really has been sporadic, which makes it also a little more difficult to mitigate," Petrilli said. 'A weeping heart' When Manns' mother heard the news on Thursday that 22-year-old Jaylin Bones had been arrested and charged with murder in her son's death, her reaction was a twice-exclaimed "Hallelujah." I hope and pray the wheels of justice continue turning in the right direction, Jill Manns told The Pantagraph on Thursday evening. Despite feeling a sense of relief, she said nothing will bring back her son and his "megawatt smile." This is a weeping heart that will never stop," she said, calling the loss of her son the most traumatic experience of her life. Tomeka Love, mother of 17-year-old Kanye Stowers of Peoria, echoed that deep maternal pain of losing a child, but she has yet to experience the relief of an arrest in his case. When they took my son, they took a part of me with him, and the only thing I cant get out here is justice, Love said in an interview with The Pantagraph. Since Stowers' death in April, Love said she cant sleep at night, and her other children deeply miss their brother. She wants to see all suspects in his case stand trial, to face them, and to ask their parents how they could raise them in a way that killed her teen boy. Love said Stowers was working hard on a music career with the intent to move the family out of Peoria. They were destined for Panama City, Florida, but now Love said she plans to remain in Central Illinois until her search for justice is over. Another mother in mourning, Patty Meserole, said she's still working to grasp the concept of forever as she approaches the anniversary of her 20-year-old son's death on Feb. 12. The grief continues to hit, she said, even "when youre doing normal, everyday things, like buying specific groceries her son liked. Nearly a year later, Dylan Meserole's killing also remains unsolved, and his mother said she feels as though she is reliving that day. "I feel like the bullet's in the air," she said, "but I can't see where it's coming from." In a statement after Bones' arrest Thursday, Simington said his department will continue to work toward resolutions and reductions of violent crime, crediting the "tireless teamwork and collaboration with the community." "(We) will continue our focus on reducing crime and the fear of crime in our city, as well as seeking justice for the victims and their families," he said. 'Worst-case scenario' While few details have been released in regard to Bloomington's open homicide cases, two gun deaths were considered solved within just three days. But no arrest was made. Simington called the double-homicide of 32-year-old Brittney Harmon and her 6-year-old son Matthias Clemons the "worst-case scenario of domestic violence." Police said their investigation indicated the boy's father, Lawrence Clemons, shot them before turning the gun on himself. According to a study from the Violence Policy Center published in 2020, 65% of "murder-suicides" involved an intimate partner and of those, 95% were females killed by their intimate partner, which includes spouses, nonmarital romantic relationships and exes, and 92% involved a gun. Additionally, one in 15 children is exposed to intimate partner violence each year and more than 10 million adults experience domestic violence annually, according to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence. Harmon's family was unavailable to speak with The Pantagraph. In her obituary, she was described as "a loving, dedicated mother, a committed, caring daughter, sister, and aunt, and a generous, empathetic family and church member." Harmon had graduated from Howard University in 2011, the obituary said. In the two years before her death, she had worked to build a career in cybersecurity "on top of securing a full-time role as a technical support specialist, home-schooling Matthias full-time, and educating students across the country in Black history and as a piano instructor." Her son was described as the love of her life. Prosecuting gun crimes In addition to an uptick in homicides in Bloomington from three in 2021 to five in 2022, Simington said, the number of firearms on the streets also has grown. "Guns seem to be more prevalent on the streets," Simington said. "We had a significant uptick in our guns seizures last year of illegally possessed guns, and that was up 54%." In 2022, Bloomington officers seized 81 guns. In January 2023, another six weapons were seized, the Bloomington chief said. The removal of illegal weapons from Bloomington-Normal streets is one result of McLean County's team of prosecutors handling gun cases "more delicately." Reynolds said they keep community safety in the front of their minds in their approach to prosecuting gun crimes, with policies in place to ensure those crimes are fully prosecuted. If theres any prosecutor that wants to come off of a gun charge for a particular reason and plea somebody to something different than that, then that is a conversation that has to be held, said Reynolds, who has been the countys lead prosecutor since her appointment in September. While assistant states attorneys might have discretion to accept plea agreements that amend or lessen charges in other types of cases, gun crimes are approached with a firmer hand. It doesn't mean that we don't plead them to something else, if it may be more appropriate if justice requires; everything is a case-by-case basis, Reynolds said. But we do handle those with more involvement from multiple prosecutors to ensure that whatever is happening is appropriate, with community safety being at the forefront of that conversation. The states attorneys office, as an arm of law enforcement, is a reactive agency, taking cases as they come across the desk, but Reynolds said the prosecution of gun crimes works toward preventing further gun violence. If you are possessing weapons as a felon, you go to prison for that. We do treat those cases very seriously and harshly because we don't want repeat offenses because that's how things start escalating, she said. For minors who come in contact with the criminal justice system, education and rehabilitation are key to help lead them in a better direction into adulthood, Reynolds also noted. We try to do whatever we can to show them the pathway to be a functioning member of society without doing these types of things, because it is really dangerous, she said. But when gun violence is glorified in television and movies, it can be more difficult to get the message across to kids that people end up hurt over it. The first seven days of February are recognized by Everytown USA and Moms Demand Action as National Gun Violence Survivor Week, chosen because that week "surpasses all gun deaths from every other country in the world," said Karen Irvin, data lead for McLean County Moms Demand Action. According to the organization's data, Irvin said within the first 31 days of the calendar year, the U.S. sees more deaths from gun violence than "peer countries" see within an entire year. Sheila Harris, survivor membership lead for the local Moms organization, said one of the purposes of Moms Demand Action is to show survivors their loved ones matter, that they are "not a forgotten soul." Youre not doing this by yourself. It affects us all," said Harris, who lost her son Dakota to gunfire in Detroit in 2020. 'What would you do?' The search for justice continues in the Meserole and Stowers cases, and for their families, trauma lingers even as they try to remember happier days. Love keeps embroidered blankets and memorial posters bearing her son's image close by, as well as Stowers' many CDs featuring his rap music, to remember him. The family set a place for the 17-year-old at Christmas dinner and tried to continue their holiday routines. But not having Stowers around was depressing, especially as it takes a toll on his siblings, Love said. As the months have passed and her frustration has grown from a lack of urgency," she said she wont remain silent. To those with knowledge about what happened to her son, she wants to ask: If was your child, what would you do? Just be quiet? Love said she wouldnt accept their silence. Patty Meserole said her son was working to turn his life around after run-ins with the law that resulted in weapon and drug charges. Those factors do not justify his murder, she said. Even if he was misbehaving at the time, its insurmountable," she said, "and its inconceivable. He was planning for college and for his family, with the intent to eventually become caretaker for his two brothers. "He was trying to make amends," his mother said. After losing her son to gun violence, Patty Meserole said any parent, regardless of age or number of children, needs to think about losing any one of those children and (imagine) that that is possibly something they can get over in time. No one is 100% safe. There are always accidents, there are unforeseen tragedies no is safe from more guns," she said. "I never liked guns. Dylan knows that. She paused a moment: Dylan knew that. And while an arrest has been made in Manns' case, the road to a trial lies ahead and the family's healing is only beginning. Jill Manns said her heart has a hole and it bleeds and bleeds." Courtney Davis, Timothy Manns' sister, said when she has a bad day, she thinks back to her brother's favorite phrases: "I got this. You got this." His family recalled Timothy's love of nature, especially dolphins, when they spread his ashes at a beach in Florida last year. As they scattered the ashes, a dolphin appeared, jumping out of the ocean and splashing back down. MAP: 2022 Bloomington-Normal shootings BLOOMINGTON A 22-year-old Bloomington man has been formally charged with four counts of first-degree murder in the death of 29-year-old Timothy Q. "Timmy" Manns of Bloomington. A McLean County grand jury also returned a bill of indictment charging Jaylin S. Bones, of Bloomington, with attempted first-degree murder and aggravated battery with a firearm, a Class X felony. Bloomington police said Bones was arrested Thursday in relation to an outstanding warrant stemming from the homicide on Jan. 24, 2022. That night, officers responded at 7:29 p.m. to a report of a person shot in the 600 block of West Jefferson Street in Bloomington, police have said. Responding officers found a man later identified as Manns shot to death inside an apartment at 607 W. Jefferson St. The U.S. Marshals Great Lakes Regional Task Force took Bones into custody without incident at approximately 1:35 p.m. Thursday at a retail store in East Peoria, police said. Bones was also charged in a separate case with unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon, unlawful possession of firearm ammunition by a felon and violation of the Illinois Firearm Owner's Identification Card act, all of which are Class 3 felonies. His bond on the murder case remains set at $2 million with 10% to apply and in the separate case at $300,000 with 10% to apply, meaning he would need to pay $230,000 plus bond fees to be released from custody. An arraignment on both cases is scheduled for 9 a.m. Feb. 24. Updated mug shots from The Pantagraph Bryant Lewis Derek Roesch Justin M. Mata Marcus D. Wesley Phillip Tinch Trisha L. Hanke William B. Givens David L. Oliver Kenneth E. Funk Jordan R. King Holly M. Isaacson Kenneth L. Minton Tony L. Jackson Britley L. Hilger Jasmine L. Smith Jackie S. Claypool Noah R. Demuth Brandon L. Parsano Alexander N. Williams Carlos Sanchez-Solozarzano Jaylin S. Bones Jordan R. King Dominique M. Banks Austin T. Daugherty Sandra M. Lewis Samantha E. Morris Nolan C. Love Nikkita L. Sandefur Katlin M.B. Wilson Eli C. Garozzo Tysean T. Townsend Curtis J. Byrd Noral K. Nelson Charles J. Tankson BLOOMINGTON A Normal man been charged a second time in less than a month after prosecutors say he failed to update his address as required by the Illinois Violent Offender Against Youth Act. Jordan R. King, 34, faces a Class 2 felony charge of violating the state law. He is required to register his address under the terms of a 2013 conviction of aggravated battery and great bodily harm to a victim younger than 13. King was initially charged with violating the act on Jan. 13 when he failed to report to the Bloomington Police Department that his address had changed, as required by law. According to court documents, King was also previously convicted of the same offense in 2016 and in 2019. Second and subsequent convictions of violating the act are a Class 2 felony under state law. King was also charged with unlawful possession of between 5-15 grams of methamphetamine, a Class 2 felony; unlawful possession of less than 5 grams of methamphetamine, a Class 3 felony; and unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia, Class A misdemeanor. Kings bond was set at $50,000 with 10% to apply, meaning he would need to post $5,000 plus court fees in order to be released from McLean County Jail. His next court date is an arraignment at 9 a.m. Feb. 24. BLOOMINGTON Anusha Nadkarni saw a notification on her Apple watch starting with congratulations and knew she needed to read the email right away. So she grabbed the pass from her English class and left class to go read it. The email was the announcement of her acceptance to the United States Senate Youth Program, as one of two students chosen to represent Illinois. I think it was one of the most exciting moments of my life, Nadkarni said. For the Bloomington High School senior, the email was the culmination of a months-long application process that included an essay and a three-hour interview where she was asked about not only her own civic engagement, but also current events and political topics like the teacher shortage and immigration reform. Through the Senate Youth Program, Nadkarni will travel to Washington, D.C., next month, along with 103 other high school students. Along with two participants from each state, there will be two students from D.C. and two from the Department of Defense Education Activity. I think that the big appeal to me is the opportunity to connect with other students who are interested in public policy, Nadkarni said. She is also looking forward to meeting national leaders and visiting places around D.C. where governing happens. The delegates will get to meet senators, the president and a Supreme Court justice. At Bloomington High School, Nadkarni is president of the National Honor Society, chair of the Promise Council and involved in Not in Our School. She is also on Diversify Our Narratives National Curriculum Council, part of a nationwide group looking to add more representative curriculums in schools. Her participation in Diversify Our Narrative is driven by a belief that education can be a way to encourage empathy. She does similar work with Promise Council, which she says aims to go beyond making sure students have access to necessities like food and school supplies. We also try to foster a sense of humanity beyond that, Nadkarni said. That sense of engagement, and efforts on building relationships within the school district following a period of political polarization and physical isolation, were what led to Nadkarni being selected, a press release from the Senate Youth Program said. Anusha is also passionate about educational equity and cultural responsiveness, it said. The delegates are chosen by state chief education officers or state superintendents. Nadkarni and her fellow delegate, Maisam Rajaie from Mather High School in Chicago, were chosen by former state superintendent Carmen Ayala, who retired Jan. 31. Delegates also receive a $10,000 scholarship for college from The Hearst Foundation. Nadkarni is not sure where she will go yet, as she is waiting on some of the decisions, but said she plans to double major in political science and public policy with a focus on educational policy. Nadkarni is excited for the opportunity to represent Bloomington District 87, Bloomington-Normal and Central Illinois (which, she joked, is the best region of the state). She attributes much of this chance to the community that has helped her grow, especially the teachers she has had in District 87. I think the first word is just grateful, she said. 5 stats to know when comparing online-only colleges How to select the right online college School size Degrees available Retention rates for full- and part-time students Cost Nontraditional student population NORMAL The inaugural dean of the College of Engineering at Illinois State University says the school's focus on creating a more diverse, representative engineering workforce was a big part of what drew him to the position. "With respect for diversifying the profession, nationally only about 14% of engineering graduates come from underrepresented groups. And in the Midwest that's even lower, it's closer to 10%. One of my goals is to make a real impact in that, and I know we're going to make the goal when I see other universities come to us," said Thomas Keyser, whose hiring was announced Jan. 13. Keyser starts at ISU April 1. From there, he will be working to build up the program to get it ready for students in fall 2025. He called it a once-in-a-career opportunity to be part of starting the new college. "Now it's just a matter of implementing, getting the curriculum, recruiting students, retaining students, supporting students, getting the right faculty in place, and of course we have to build a building to support all that. To me, it's just an exciting challenge, Keyser said. Keyser is currently dean of the College of Engineering, Technology and Management at Oregon Institute of Technology. He has previously held positions at Western New England University, Ohio University, University of Southern Colorado, Clemson University and McDonnell Douglas Space Systems. He holds degrees from New Mexico State University, Colorado State University and Clemson. Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Aondover Tarhule said he was certain Keyser was the right person to start building the college. "Quite frankly, we felt very confident during the interviews that Tom was the person to do it," Tarhule said, "and that was not just my feeling, it was the feeling across all of the multiple constituents that he met with." Ramping up Keyser praised Tarhule for all the work he and others have done to bring the college to ISU. Tarhule, in turn, said many people have put a lot of work into the project, all the way back to 2016, and there is plenty of work ahead. "There's a lot more work ahead and we were really looking for someone who would understand the vision and has an interest and a passion of what this represents," Tarhule said. Over coming months, the college will see three main next steps, Tarhule said. In personnel, the college will be looking for the two chairs for the engineering departments, one in electrical engineering and one in mechanical engineering. Tarhule and Keyser hope to have those decisions made by mid-April. Administrative staff will join over the summer and Tarhule expects the department could have five to seven employees by the fall. The curriculum is under review of the university curriculum committee. It will next go to the Academic Senate, then the ISU Board of Trustees and then the Illinois Board of Higher Education, hopefully sometime this summer, Tarhule said. The college is able to move forward on curriculum without having hired faculty due to the regimented nature of the subject and accreditation, Tarhule said. "Fortunately, engineering is a program that is fairly regimented, actually highly regimented, it's all guided by ABET (Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology) accreditation so the guidelines are very clear," he said. However, the exact content of the courses and the teaching methods are still to be determined, Keyser said. That is something he plans to work closely with faculty on developing. The third component is renovating the John Green building, Tarhule said. The building is on the north side of campus near Main and Gregory streets. The 80,000-square-foot space is mostly used as a warehouse, but the university needs to find an additional property to purchase or lease to move those operations from John Green. That will require board action. Right now, Tarhule expects construction on John Green to start in July 2024. Setting goals In his first months, Keyser plans to work on building connections, with both internal partners at ISU and with external industry partners. I need to be outward facing, make some industry contacts, he said. The college has received letters of support from various area businesses, including Farnsworth Group, Rivian and State Farm, which were included in materials ISU provided to the Illinois Board of Higher Education. Keyser sees the dean position as a chance to build on his work at previous institutions to encourage more people from historically marginalized backgrounds to enter engineering. At other institutions he has worked on programs to increase enrollment and improve outcomes for Black, Hispanic and Native American students, he said. Both Keyser and Tarhule want the college to become a model for other colleges across the country in creating a more diverse engineering workforce, but say that ties in to a few other goals as well. Those include helping create a workforce for growing industry in the region, Tarhule said. "I think we have an opportunity here to help keep Illinois students in Illinois and also contribute to workforce development of the region, he said. He also hopes to see improved graduation rates for all engineering students, who historically have often changed programs or dropped out, with graduation rates behind the rest of their peers, he said. "The other goal that we have set is that our engineering students should graduate at the same rate as the general ISU student body," Tarhule said. The college now exists on paper, with Keyser being its first hire, Tarhule said. But for Keyser, the real start of the college will come in fall 2025. In my mind it exists when we get the first student in the door and the first class begins, he said. Colleges where graduates have the most student debt Where college graduates have accrued the most debt #35. Dillard University, Louisiana (tie) #35. Methodist College, Illinois (tie) #34. Amridge University, Alabama #33. Morris College, South Carolina #32. Shaw University, North Carolina #31. Ashford University, California #30. Tougaloo College, Mississippi #29. University of Phoenix-Arizona, Arizona #28. Aviation Institute of Maintenance-Manassas, Virginia #27. American InterContinental University-Atlanta, Georgia #26. Livingstone College, North Carolina #25. Laurus College, California #24. Newschool of Architecture and Design, California #23. Miles College, Alabama #22. Peirce College, Pennsylvania #21. Humphreys University-Stockton and Modesto Campuses, California #20. Lane College, Tennessee #19. West Coast University-Miami, Florida #18. Stratford University, Virginia #17. Southern California Institute of Architecture, California #16. Benedict College, South Carolina #15. Allen University, South Carolina #14. Nazarene Bible College, Colorado #13. Grambling State University, Louisiana #12. Provo College, Utah #11. American University of Health Sciences, California #10. Boston Architectural College, Massachusetts #9. Strayer University-District of Columbia, Washington D.C. #8. Everglades University-Orlando, Florida #7. Martin University, Indiana #6. Eagle Gate College-Layton, Utah #5. Platt College-Aurora, Colorado #4. American Baptist College, Tennessee #3. Huntsville Bible College, Alabama #2. Design Institute of San Diego, California #1. The North Coast College, Ohio How Time Flies is a daily feature looking back at Pantagraph archives to revisit what was happening in our community and region. 100 years ago Feb. 4, 1923: An appropriate dedication of the John McBarnes Memorial Hall will be arranged for the formal opening of the building. The dedication may be only a simple ceremonial, if prominent speakers cannot be secured. It is hoped, however, to make the occasion as auspicious as was the laying of the cornerstone, May 27, 1922, when thousands of persons thronged into the city. 75 years ago Feb. 4, 1948: A $7.50 increase in fees per semester was approved by the Illinois State Normal University Senate. The increase will become effective July 1. The raise, based on the increased cost of educating students, was approved by the Teachers College board at its January meeting and was recommended to the university senate by the ISNU administrative council. This will mean that ISNU's all-inclusive fees during the regular year will be $40 per semester instead of $32.50. 50 years ago Feb. 4, 1973: Ten inmates at the McLean County Jail are receiving free basic education under the auspices of the Bloomington-Normal Adult Education Program. The program, a first for the county, consists of basic instruction in English, math, science, social science and the Constitution. Of 40 inmates surveyed at the county jail in December, only 10 had high school diplomas. 25 years ago Feb. 4, 1998: When Marc Becker and his wife, Cheryl Musch, planned to go to southern Mexico during winter break, they thought they were volunteering to build a school. But all that changed after the Dec. 22 massacre of 45 Indians in the town of Acteal, one of many areas affected by fighting between the government and Zapatista Army of the National Liberation. So Becker, an Illinois State University professor who teaches Mexican history, and Musch instead found themselves taking testimony from people who survived the attack. 101 years ago: See vintage Pantagraph ads from 1922 Gerthart's Union Gas and Electric Co. Hoover Dr. J.A. Moore Dentists Moberly & Klenner W.P. Garretson W.H. Roland Pease's Candy Thor 32 Electric Washing Machine The Kaiser's Story of the War Ike Livingston & Sons Gossard Corsets Cat'n Fiddle 'Stolen Moments' Case Model X The Johnson Transfer & Fuel Co. The Pantagraph want ads Franklin Motor Car Co. 'A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur's Court' Calumet Baking Powder Mayer Livingston & Co. Newsmarket 'The Emperor Jones' 'California Fig Syrup' CHICAGO The Big Apple now has a small bean. Artist Anish Kapoor, who designed the iconic stainless-steel Bean in Millennium Park, finished a strikingly similar sculpture in New York City earlier this week. The artwork is wedged under the corner of the towering 56 Leonard luxury apartment building in the Tribeca neighborhood. The buildings developers spent $8 million on the sculpture, according to real estate outlet Curbed. Fortunately, it is smaller than Chicagos version. The original Bean, unveiled in 2004 and officially titled Cloud Gate, weighs in at 110 tons and is 66 feet long and 33 feet high. The so-far-unnamed New York sculpture reportedly comes in at just 40 tons, 48 feet long and 19 feet tall. There are a lot of wannabes, but nothing will beat Chicagos, Choose Chicago President and CEO Lynn Osmond said. The downsized duplicate does differ from the original Bean in some ways. It sits flatter on the ground and isnt as symmetrical as Chicagos sculpture. Chicagos Bean sits between Michigan Avenue and Lake Michigan, offering unobstructed views of the citys tall buildings and the sky beyond, Osmond said. But the cramped copycat Wannabean is shoved into the corner of the building, she added. It might be the same object, but it is not enhanced by its surroundings in the same way Chicagos larger version of the sculpture is, Osmond said. I dont think its competitive. I just think its complementary, she said. We have Cloud Gate, and they have Corner Gate, she added later. Sculpture strife aside, Osmond praised Kapoor as a fabulous sculptor. When people think of Chicago, they think of the citys skyline or his iconic sculpture, she said. The Bean attracts 20 million visitors to Millennium Park each year, a Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events spokesperson said. It is the No. 1 attraction in the Midwest and No. 7 in the United States, according to the spokesperson. Its our postcard, Osmond said. The New York City bean isnt the first to bear a noticeable resemblance to Chicagos. Kapoor said in 2015 that he wanted to sue after a similar sculpture appeared in China. The Chinese authorities must act to stop this kind of infringement, he wrote at the time. Although Chicago-centric thinkers might see his new sculpture as constricted amid the packed streets of Manhattan, the sculptor has his own thoughts on what the piece offers. The city can feel frenetic, fast and hard, imposing architecture, concrete, noise. My work, at 56 Leonard Street, proposes a form that though made of stainless steel is also soft and ephemeral, Kapoor said in a statement shared with The Tribeca Trib. Mirrors cause us to pause, to be absorbed and pulled in a way that disrupts time, slows it down perhaps; its a material that creates a new kind of immaterial space. Kapoor bought a $13.5 million, four-bedroom apartment in the tower, according to Curbed. The New York sculpture, which sits under a building referred to as the Jenga tower for its many cantilevers, took over four years to complete. The sculpture is said to have ruptured at one point because sunlight caused it to unevenly expand. Compared with Chicagos Bean, the new piece required equivalent accuracy and precision, but with an added component, the Tribeca Citizen wrote in 2018, citing the sculptures fabricator. The New York version was set to be made by joining slices together and then smoothing the joints over, the fabricator said. The COVID-19 pandemic and its many travel and supply chain challenges surely made the work even harder. The end product is distinct from Chicagos version for reasons beyond its smaller stature. The buildings website cites The Art Newspaper to argue that instead of a luxe legume, the New York sculpture resembles a squashed balloon. CHAMPAIGN On the day a Ukrainian cheesemaker was officially introduced to the public at a Central Illinois farm where she now works, more disturbing news came from her homeland. Fresh Russian bombs fell on Jan. 14 in a city where her friends lives. While greeting a few hundred at visitors at Prairie Fruits Farm & Creamery in rural Champaign, Tetyana Dydechko periodically glanced at her phone to see if her friends were safe. She knew her family wasnt in the danger area this time. For Ukraine everything has changed, she said of the war which started one year ago this month. Sometimes she has to stop looking at the news. You accept it, its a war, she said. Its horrible, but its what we have. The cheesemaker arrived in Illinois from her hometown of Poltava in east central Ukraine on Dec. 26. It took months to get the paperwork through, said Leslie Cooperband, co-owner of the dairy goat, fruit and agritourism farm with her husband Wes Jarrell. The cheesemakers first connected virtually in October through Cooperbands friend and founder of Culture magazine. Leslie had been actively looking for a cheesemaker for nearly a year. I feel like Im with family, Dydechko said. Cooperband agrees the cheesemaker has quickly become part of the family. She lives with us. We both like cooking, she said. And they naturally share a love of cheese and cheesemaking. Cooperband and Jarrell moved from urban Madison, Wisconsin, to their rural Champaign County farm 20 years ago and started their cheese business here in 2005. They have fruit trees, raise goats and make cheese they sell, along with other locally made products at their on-site store and online business. They also welcome visitors as part of agritourism activities and to increase awareness of agriculture. Their goals include educating the community about sustainable and regenerative agriculture and the connections between food production, health, and enjoyment. Its an approach Dydechko likes. Sharing cheese skills and ideas In the 18-19 years, Ive never had a cheese-making peer, Cooperband said of the joy of exchanging ideas with Dydechko, who was trained in Ukraine, France and Switzerland. She has a wide breadth of experience with different cheeses, Cooperband said. The Illinois farm has a fair number of customers from Ukraine and Russia, Cooperband said. Many of them came to meet the new cheesemaker in January and look forward to trying more of her cheeses, including Ukrainian Farmhouse Cheese. Dydechko also makes fresh mozzarella. Its beautifully done. Its a hard cheese to make well, Cooperband says. This week Dydechko is making a type of cottage cheese, which is a fresh cheese with light texture that is a cross between fresh Chevre, a pasteurized goats milk cheese, and traditional American cottage cheese. She also learned the technique high in the Swiss Alps to make a Swiss cheese in giant, copper vats. Here she makes a smaller version in cooking vessels available here, Cooperband said. As well as the specialty international cheeses, Dydechko is making Copperbands established repertoire and will also be making cheeses for grilling and frying soon. I have yet to see someone work with the same passion and commitment, the Illinois farm owner said of her new addition. Tetyana owned her own cheese business in the Ukraine before the war, said Cooperband, who also found it refreshing to talk to someone who understands the business as well as cheese making. I like seeing how Leslie built her system. Im learning and I give her my knowledge, said Dydechko, who is due to return to her summer job in Switzerland on May 28. Dydechko grew up on a small farm in eastern Ukraine where they made cheese and studied at a prestigious agrarian college before opening her own business. Last summer she worked in Switzerland and has the same opportunity this summer. Cooperband said she hopes Dydechko returns after her summer job. Dydechko is no stranger to hard work. She worked 100 days in Switzerland last year before having a day off. At the finish of her season, she had made 1,400 big cheese wheels. For her, another bonus of working on the dairy goat farm is that she loves animals. They are so friendly, she said of the goats. Im excited when the babies will come. Still, is difficult to be so far from home, but Dydechko stays in close contact with her family. Im faraway, she said. But I have everybody in my phone. 2022 in review: The year in photos CHARLESTON Eastern Illinois University has announced that Jay Gatrell will serve as its 13th president. Gatrell is currently the university's provost and vice president for academic affairs, a position he filled in 2017. In this position, he is the chief academic officer of the university. Joyce Madigan, chair of the Eastern Illinois University Board of Trustees, announced Gatrell's new role during an event Friday afternoon in the University Ballroom, which was filled with a large crowd of EIU employees, retirees, students and local officials. "I am honored and truly privileged to have the opportunity to serve as Eastern Illinois University's next president," Gatrell said after the announcement. He added, "I look forward to working with east and every one of you for years to come. As provost, Gatrell also serves as the "second-in-command" for the president, being the primary representative for the president in his absence. While speaking to reporters after the announcement, Gatrell said his top priorities as EIUs next president will include continuing to improve student retention and graduation rates. He said EIU is well placed to continue growing enrollment through its reputation for having good faculty-student ratios and good academic programs, including the new nursing program. Gatrell said the transition to becoming president will be a learning experience for him, but he will be able to draw upon his knowledge of the universitys inner workings and the campus community. I know how hard the faculty work, I known how hard the staff work, and I know how proud they are of the students, Gatrell said. Madigan said Gatrell "truly understands and appreciates EIU," and he is a dedicated scholar with extensive leadership experience. Madigan said she has faith that Gatrell will lead the university into an even more impressive future. The incoming 13th president holds a bachelor's degree in political science from Eastern Michigan University and graduate degrees in geography from the University of Toledo and West Virginia University. Gatrell will follow David Glassman, who announced his intent to step down from the presidency in October 2021. Glassman has served as the university's president since 2015. Glassman will continue working at the university as a tenured professor after leaving the president's post in June. Jennifer Stringfellow, who is president of the EIU chapter of the University Professionals of Illinois, said after the announcement that Gatrell has always been pleasant, polite and willing to speak to her in her role with the union, even if the union has not gotten everything it is seeking. We have been able to talk and have conversations, and I am hoping that continues, Stringfellow said. As union president, Stringfellow said she wants to ensure that the work of instructors, academic advisers, and others in the bargaining unit is recognized and respected. The EIU Board of Trustees selected Gatrell to be president from a field of candidates that also included David Brennen, former dean of the University of Kentucky's David Rosenberg College of Law; Diana Rogers-Adkinson, provost and senior vice president for academic affairs at Commonwealth University of Pennsylvania; and Michael Godard, provost at Southeast Missouri State University. "We were incredibly impressed by the level of excellence every applicant demonstrated," Madigan said. Corryn Brock contributed to this report. The Eastern Illinois University campus through the years In an effort to discredit the process associated with the recently signed 2023 Omnibus Bill, a January 31, 2023, letter to the editor misreported and misquoted Nancy Pelosis comments from 13 years earlier. It must be assumed that he did not attribute her name to the quote because she was talking about the Affordable Care Act in 2010, not the 2023 Omnibus Bill. The letter attributed the same quote to other congresspersons, but he provides no names, and those words are not associated with anyone else. Pelosi stated, "We have to pass the bill so that you can find out what is in it, away from the fog of the controversy, She did not say, We have to pass the bill to find out whats in it. Pelosis comment came at the very end of a speech on March 9, 2010 in Washington D.C. Nowhere does the context of her statement, nor the speech itself, suggest that passing the Affordable Care Act was the only way to know what was in it. The sense of Pelosi's remarks was that, in her view, the benefits of the bill, rather than the contents of the bill, would only be fully revealed to the public after the legislation was passed and implemented. Further, unlike the Omnibus Bill, the complete Pelosi quote came after the Affordable Care Act had been publicly available and publicly debated for months. It is unclear why the writer misquoted a former Democratic Speaker of the House to decry a bill he doesnt like and then used it as an example of the process that is somehow representative of the process associated with the 2023 Omnibus Bill. A letter to the editor must be held accountable in the way information and context of information is presented. Roger Garrett, Bloomington Yadav also hit out at the BJP-ruled Uttar Pradesh government over investments in the state. DC File Image Lucknow: Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav on Sunday said the BJP might taste defeat in all 80 parliamentary seats in Uttar Pradesh in the 2024 General Elections. "BJP is baar ho sakta hai saari 80 seats haar jaaye (BJP might taste defeat in all 80 seats)," Yadav said. "The party that claimed to rule for decades -- its leader said that it will be there for (the next) 50 years -- is now counting its days. Its national president should visit two medical colleges in the state and he will understand how many seats they are going to win," the former Uttar Pradesh chief minister said. Yadav also asked the BJP, which is holding its state executive meet here, to pass a resolution to provide Rs 1 crore and a government job to families of custodial death victims. "The BJP practises discrimination. Will it pass a resolution to provide Rs 1 crore financial help and a government job to the family of Balwant Singh? It should pass a resolution to provide Rs 1 crore financial assistance and a government job in custodial death cases to the families concerned," Yadav said. Singh (27), a businessman, died in police custody in Kanpur on the intervening night of December 12 and 13. His post mortem report revealed that he had about 24 ante-mortem injuries, including on the chest, face, thighs, legs, hands and soles. Yadav also hit out at the BJP-ruled Uttar Pradesh government over investments in the state. "They were claiming to bring in investments from London and New York. Now, they are bringing investment from the districts. Who are they fooling? "They are visiting (other) states, which are already running their own (investment) programmes, for investments. They are just fooling people," Yadav added. A video capturing how Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa threw out a restraining order document from the secretary to the board of Trustees of the National Cathedral of Ghana, Rev Victor Kusi Boateng, who is also known as Kwabena Adu Gyamfi, has emerged online. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa was forced to kick out the document after the bailiff tried to force the document into his car on the compound of Metro TV after the Good Morning Ghana show. A man initially approached the lawmaker as he was just about to sit in his car after the show, the two were captured having a conversation after which a document was presented to him. The lawmaker did not take the document but went ahead to seat on his car, just as he opened his car, the bailiff tried to force the document into the lawmakers car but he immediately threw it out, kicked the document away from his car and drove off. Rev Kusi Boateng secures restraining order against Ablakwa The secretary to the board of Trustees of the National Cathedral of Ghana, Rev Victor Kusi Boateng, who is also known as Kwabena Adu Gyamfi, has secured an order of interim injunction against the Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa. The order restrains Okudzeto Ablakwa from publicly sharing any document belonging to Kwabena Adu Gyamfi for the next 10 days. The MP who disclosed this in a tweet shared on Friday, February 3, 2023, said that he was served the order after his appearance on Metro TVs Good Morning Ghana programme on the same day. One Kwabena Adu Gyamfi also claiming to have an alias as Victor Kusi Boateng has secured a 10-day restraining order seeking to stop me from further publications on the Conflict of Interest & Double Identity Scandal, parts of the MPs tweet read. The MP shared a picture of the order he was served which read: IT IS HEREBY ORDERED that the 1" Respondent, SAMUEL OKUDZETO ABLAKWA is restrained from making further public disclosures of private documents, correspondence, communication and property belonging to the Applicant (Adu Gyamfi)." IT IS FURTHER ORDERED that this interim order will lapse after Ten (10) days, it added. BackgroundThe latest corruption expose on the National Cathedral by the Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, suggested impropriety on the part of the secretary to the Board of Trustees of the National Cathedral of Ghana, Rev. Victor Kusi Boateng.On January 16, 2023, the MP made some allegations against Rev. Kusi Boateng, who is the secretary to the Board of Trustees of the National Cathedral of Ghana.In an earlier revelation about the National Cathedral, Okudzeto Ablakwa said a whopping GH2.6 million was dished out to a company named JNS Talent Centre Limited.Further investigations into the alleged payment led to the discovery of one Kwabena Adu Gyamfi as a director of JNS Talent Centre.Having confirmed the identities of two out of three directors of the centre, Ablakwa dug deeper in a bid to discover the identity of the third director, Kwabena Adu Gyamfi.According to his findings, citing a number of statutory documents, Kwabena Adu Gyamfi was the same as Reverend Kusi Boateng, who has allegedly been operating under the pseudonym Kwabena Adu Gyamfi. Source: Ghanaweb Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video Netflix has said that updated measures to crack down on password sharing were posted by mistake. Following widespread disappointment on social media, with many threatening to cancel their memberships, the streaming giant claimed some new account rules being trialled in other countries had accidentally been added to its help pages elsewhere. While subscribers have been expecting the company to introduce anti-password sharing regulations since last year, when the platform started talking tough during a lull in memberships, the extent of the crackdown revealed earlier this week caught some by surprise. Among the changes was a feature to let users add subaccounts for up to two people they don't live with, which essentially aims to monetise how subscribers have been sharing passwords for years. It's been testing in parts of South America and costs the equivalent of an extra 2-3 a month. Netflix - home to shows like The Crown, Squid Game, and Stranger Things - said a help page about "paid sharing" coming to other countries went live elsewhere "for a brief time", and had since been removed. To enforce the crackdown, Netflix wants to treat devices which use your account as trusted. In practice, this means using them on your home wifi network on a regular basis. You would need to open the app and watch something on the trusted device at least once every 31 days, or risk a consistent barrage of verification requests to ensure nobody outside your household is using your account. Why is Netflix doing this? Despite the backlash, Netflix is still expected to take password sharing more seriously this year. In December, the Intellectual Property Office clarified that password sharers may indeed be breaking copyright law, however it's down to the streaming services themselves to enforce it. Netflix has started trying to tempt account sharers to make the move of their own accord by letting people transfer profiles from one account to another. With more competition from the likes of Disney+ and Amazon Prime, and the cost of living crisis, the company is looking for ways to boost revenue and grow its subscriber base, which stands at more than 230 million. But it's not gone down well with fans, who have been quick to point to a 2017 tweet in which Netflix proudly proclaimed: "Love is sharing a password." Source: Skynews.com Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: A girl looks at a photo of the famed mountain lion known as P-22 as the exhibit wall is covered with Post-It notes paying tribute to the big cat at the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County in Los Angeles, Friday, Jan. 20, 2023. The popular puma gained fame as P-22 and shone a spotlight on the troubled population of California's endangered mountain lions and their decreasing genetic diversity. But it's the big cat's death and whether to return his remains to ancestral tribal lands where he spent his life that could posthumously give his story new life. Credit: AP Photo/Jae C. Hong The life of Los Angeles' most famous mountain lion followed a path known only to the biggest of Hollywood stars: Discovered on-camera in 2012, the cougar adopted a stage name and enjoyed a decade of celebrity status before his tragic death late last year. The popular puma gained fame as P-22 and cast a spotlight on the troubled population of California's endangered mountain lions and their decreasing genetic diversity. Now, with his remains stored in a freezer at the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County, wildlife officials and representatives from the region's tribal communities are debating his next act. Biologists and conservationists want to retain samples of P-22's tissue, fur and whiskers for scientific testing to aid in future wildlife research. But some representatives of the Chumash, Tataviam and Gabrielino (Tongva) peoples say his body should be returned, untouched, to the ancestral lands where he spent his life so he can be honored with a traditional burial. In tribal communities here, mountain lions are regarded as relatives and considered teachers. P-22 is seen as an extraordinary animal, according to Alan Salazar, a tribal member of the Fernandeno Tataviam Band of Mission Indians and a descendent of the Chumash tribe who said his death should be honored appropriately. This Jan. 2020, photo provided by Miguel Ordenana shows a mountain lion known as P-22, photographed in Los Angeles. The popular puma gained fame as P-22 and shone a spotlight on the troubled population of California's endangered mountain lions and their decreasing genetic diversity. But it's the big cat's death and whether to return his remains to ancestral tribal lands where he spent his life that could posthumously give his story new life. Credit: Miguel Ordenana via AP "We want to bury him like he's a 'wot,' like a 'tomier,' " Salazar said, "which are two of the words for chief or leader" in the Chumash and Tataviam languages, respectively. "Because that's what he was." Likely born about 12 years ago in the western Santa Monica Mountains, wildlife officials believe the aggression of P-22's father and his own struggle to find a mate amid a dwindling population drove the cougar to cross two heavily traveled freeways and migrate east. He made his debut in 2012, captured on a trail camera by biologist Miguel Ordenana in Griffith Park, home of the Hollywood sign and part of ancestral Gabrielino (Tongva) land. Promptly tagged and christened P-22as the 22nd puma in a National Park Service studyhe spawned a decade of devotion among Californians, who saw themselves mirrored in his bachelor status, his harrowing journey to the heart of Los Angeles and his prime real estate in Griffith Park amid the city's urban sprawl. Los Angeles and Mumbai are the world's only major cities where large cats livemountain lions in one, leopards in the other. Post-It notes paying tribute to the famed mountain lion known as P-22 cover an exhibit wall at the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County in Los Angeles, Friday, Jan. 20, 2023. The popular puma gained fame as P-22 and shone a spotlight on the troubled population of California's endangered mountain lions and their decreasing genetic diversity. But it's the big cat's death and whether to return his remains to ancestral tribal lands where he spent his life that could posthumously give his story new life. Credit: AP Photo/Jae C. Hong Angelenos will celebrate his life on Saturday at the Greek Theater in Griffith Park in a memorial put on by the "Save LA Cougars." P-22 inspired the group to campaign for a wildlife crossing over a Los Angeles-area freeway that will allow big cats and other animals safe passage between the mountains and wildlands to the north. The bridge broke ground in April. P-22s star dimmed last November, when he killed a Chihuahua on a dogwalker's leash in the Hollywood Hills and likely attacked another weeks later. Wildlife officials said the puma seemed to be "exhibiting signs of distress," in part due to aging. They captured P-22 on Dec. 12 in a residential backyard in the trendy Los Feliz neighborhood. Examinations revealed a skull fracturethe result of being hit by a carand chronic illnesses including a skin infection and diseases of the kidneys and liver. This May. 2020, photo provided by Miguel Ordenana shows a mountain lion known as P-22, photographed in Los Angeles. The popular puma gained fame as P-22 and shone a spotlight on the troubled population of California's endangered mountain lions and their decreasing genetic diversity. But it's the big cat's death and whether to return his remains to ancestral tribal lands where he spent his life that could posthumously give his story new life. Credit: Miguel Ordenana via AP The city's cherished big cat was euthanized five days later. Los Angeles mourned P-22 as one of its own, with songs, stories and murals crying "long live the king." Post-It notes of remembrance blanketed an exhibit wall at the Natural History Museum and children's paw print messages covered a tableau outside the LA Zoo. While fame is fleeting for most celebrities, P-22's legacy lives onthough in what form is now up for debate. The Natural History Museum took possession of the animal's remains, prompting swift condemnation by tribal leaders who feared P-22s body could be taxidermized and put on display. Samples taken during the animal's necropsy also are causing concerns among the tribal communities about burying the cougar intact. "In order to continue on your journey into the afterlife, you have to be whole," said Desiree Martinez, an archaeologist and member of the Gabrielino (Tongva) community. This Aug. 2017, photo provided by Miguel Ordenana shows a mountain lion known as P-22, photographed in Los Angeles. The popular puma gained fame as P-22 and shone a spotlight on the troubled population of California's endangered mountain lions and their decreasing genetic diversity. But it's the big cat's death and whether to return his remains to ancestral tribal lands where he spent his life that could posthumously give his story new life. Credit: Miguel Ordenana via AP A year before P-22's death, Ordenanathe wildlife biologist whose camera first spotted the cougar and is now a senior manager of community science at the Natural History Museumhad applied for a permit from the state for the museum to receive the mountain lion's remains when he died. Typically an animal carcass would be discarded. Ordenana and the state Department of Fish and Wildlife have apologized, saying they should have spoken with the tribes from the start. Museum, state and other officials began talks with the tribes Monday in the hopes of reaching a compromise. Ordenana and other scientists are advocating to retain at least some of P-22's tissue samples to preserve future research opportunities for the endangered animals as new technologies and techniques arise. "We're trying to see what can we do differentlyregarding outreach, regarding our processthat is feasible for us as an institution," Ordenana said, "but respectful of both the scientific and the cultural-historic legacy of these animals." Two people walk past a mural by artist Corie Mattie depicting the famed mountain lion known as P-22 in Los Angeles, Friday, Jan. 20, 2023. The popular puma gained fame as P-22 and shone a spotlight on the troubled population of California's endangered mountain lions and their decreasing genetic diversity. But it's the big cat's death and whether to return his remains to ancestral tribal lands where he spent his life that could posthumously give his story new life. Credit: AP Photo/Jae C. Hong Salazar and Martinez, however, do not believe samples should be taken from the animal's remains and held by the museum in perpetuity. "We've been studied like the mountain lion has been studied," Salazar said. "Those bones of my tribal ancestors are in boxes so they can be studied by future generations. We're not a science project." Beth Pratt, California executive director for the National Wildlife Federation and a key player in developing the wildlife crossing, said it's important to balance the different arguments to ensure the diminishing LA cougar population has a future. "We do need data from these animals, even P-22, for science," said Pratt, who calls him "the Brad Pitt" of pumas. Chuck Bonham, director of the state Department of Fish and Wildlife, said the P-22 discussions have forced his agency and others to reckon with their outreach to California's tribes. A mural depicting the famed mountain lion known as P-22 is reflected in a car window in Los Angeles, Friday, Jan. 20, 2023. The popular puma gained fame as P-22 and shone a spotlight on the troubled population of California's endangered mountain lions and their decreasing genetic diversity. But it's the big cat's death and whether to return his remains to ancestral tribal lands where he spent his life that could posthumously give his story new life. Credit: AP Photo/Jae C. Hong Visitors look at merchandize celebrating the life of the famed mountain lion known as P-22 at the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County in Los Angeles, Friday, Jan. 20, 2023. The life of LA's most famous mountain lion followed a path known only to the biggest of Hollywood stars: Discovered on-camera in 2012, the cougar adopted a stage name and enjoyed a decade of celebrity status before his tragic death late last year. Credit: AP Photo/Jae C. Hong A mural by artist Corie Mattie depicting the famed mountain lion known as P-22 is seen in the Silverlake neighborhood of Los Angeles, Wednesday, Feb. 1, 2023. The popular puma gained fame as P-22 and shone a spotlight on the troubled population of California's endangered mountain lions and their decreasing genetic diversity. But it's the big cat's death and whether to return his remains to ancestral tribal lands where he spent his life that could posthumously give his story new life. Credit: AP Photo/Jae C. Hong Biologist Miguel Ordenana sits for a photo after an interview with The Associated Press at the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County in Los Angeles, Friday, Jan. 20, 2023. A year before P-22's death, Ordenana the wildlife biologist whose camera first spotted the cougar and now a senior manager of community science at the Natural History Museum had applied for a permit from the state for the museum to receive the mountain lion's remains when he died so the carcass was not discarded, as is typical. Credit: AP Photo/Jae C. Hong Alan Salazar, a tribal member of the Fernandeno Tataviam Band of Mission Indians, sits for a photo after an interview with The Associated Press in Thousand Oaks, Calif., Wednesday, Feb. 1, 2023. Credit: AP Photo/Jae C. Hong Biologist Miguel Ordenana pauses for a moment during an interview with The Associated Press as Post-It notes paying tribute to the famed mountain lion known as P-22 cover an exhibit wall at the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County in Los Angeles, Friday, Jan. 20, 2023. A year before P-22's death, Ordenana the wildlife biologist whose camera first spotted the cougar and now a senior manager of community science at the Natural History Museum had applied for a permit from the state for the museum to receive the mountain lion's remains when he died so the carcass was not discarded, as is typical. Credit: AP Photo/Jae C. Hong Alan Salazar, a tribal member of the Fernandeno Tataviam Band of Mission Indians, looks at a taxidermy of a mountain lion at a museum in Thousand Oaks, Calif., Wednesday, Feb. 1, 2023. In tribal communities here, mountain lions are regarded as relatives and considered teachers, according to Salazar. Credit: AP Photo/Jae C. Hong "I think he'll live forever in this way," Bonham said. Martinez, of the Gabrielino (Tongva) community, said the beloved mountain lion's death also symbolizes how humans must take responsibility for respecting animals' lives. "We are wildlife. We are creatures of nature, just as all the animals and plants are," Martinez said. "What can we do to make sure that the creatures that we are sharing this nature with have the ability to survive and live onjust like us?" 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission. Police arrest two on DWI counts State police arrested two people last week in separate driving while intoxicated incidents. On Jan. 26 at about 8:48 p.m., state police responded to a one-car crash in the area of Fort Edward Road in Moreau. The driver was identified as Gina M. Dean, 35, of Stillwater. Dean was charged with DWI and other traffic violations. She was taken to the state police Wilton station, where she provided a breath sample with a 0.19% blood alcohol concentration, according to police. Dean was issued tickets and released to a sober party. She is due back in Moreau Town Court on Feb. 15. On Jan. 28, police stopped a vehicle on state Route 4 in Fort Edward for traffic infractions. The driver, 36-year-old Hudson Falls resident Amanda L. Jameson, was arrested on a charge of driving while intoxicated. While in custody, police found controlled substances and she was charged with two misdemeanor counts of seventh-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance. Jameson was transported to the Greenwich state police station, where she refused to provide a sample to determine the alcohol content of her blood. She was issued an appearance ticket and released to a sober party. Jameson is due back in Fort Edward Town Court on Feb. 15. Vanessa L. Graham, of Kingsbury, New York for Assault in the 3rd Degree, a class A Misdemeanor, Criminal Contempt in the 2nd Degree, a class A Misdemeanor, Endangering the Welfare of a Child, a class A Misdemeanor, and Tampering with Physical Evidence, a class E Felony. The arrest was made after an investigation into a domestic related incident that occurred in the Town of Kingsbury which Graham assaulted a female victim. During this incident a child less than seventeen (17) years old was present and Graham is accused of acting in a manor that was injurious the mental, moral, and or, physical welfare of the child. Additional charges of Criminal Content in the 2nd Degree and Tampering with Physical Evidence were lodged when Graham knowingly failed to follow a court order issued from Washington County Family Court preventing the collection of evidence in a police investigation that was to be used in a Court Preceding. Graham was arraigned at Washington County Central Arraignment and held to appear at the Washington County Court at a later date and time. Officer (s) Handling: Washington County The average statewide high school graduation rate increased slightly from 86.1% to 87% and local districts also saw gains. 2022 graduation rates School district 2022 2021 Change Argyle 85 81 0 Bolton 100 100 0 Cambridge 91 93 3 Corinth 89 88 0 Fort Ann 81 84 3 Fort Edward 82 72 10 Glens Falls 82 79 3 Granville 83 85 -2 Greenwich 92 91 1 Hadley-Luzerne 84 82 2 Hartford 89 85 4 Hudson Falls 74 81 -7 Indian Lake 92 100 -8 Johnsburg 95 85 10 Lake George 94 90 4 Long Lake N.A. N.A. N.A. Minerva 71 89 -18 Newcomb 100 100 0 North Warren 73 83 -10 Queensbury 92 88 4 Salem 86 86 0 Saratoga Springs 93 94 -1 Schroon Lake 88 100 -12 Schuylerville 99 93 6 South Glens Falls 86 91 -5 Ticonderoga 90 91 -1 Warrensburg 93 81 12 Whitehall 76 70 6 The rate measures the percentage of students who started in the fall of 2018 that graduated by August 2022. Over half of the districts in The Post-Stars coverage area had increases in the graduation rate. Glens Falls increased by 3 percentage points to 82%. Queensbury went from 88% to 92%. Queensbury Superintendent Kyle Gannon attributed the change to the work the district has done to make students feel connected to the school. Queensbury UFSD has worked to focus on increasing student engagement, including a student campaign last year to get involved and stay involved in sports, music and extracurriculars. We believe students invested in the school community will thrive academically and socially, he said. Elsewhere, Corinth went up slightly from 88% to 89%. Corinth Superintendent Mark Stratton said the district has hired a full-time coordinator to track at-risk students and provide intervention to struggling students. The district also added a new English language arts curriculum and provides ongoing literacy training for its staff. We have also added counselors to provide more support for students social and emotional well-being post pandemic. Corinth takes great pride in providing individual support for every student, he said. I am extremely proud of our teachers and the effort they make each and every day to help our students succeed. However, we are never satisfied and always trying to improve, Stratton added. Some districts dropped Other districts had decreases. Hudson Falls went from 81% to 74%. Superintendent of Schools Dan Ward said increasing the graduation rate has been a focus since he started at the district in 2021. Among the initiatives the district has undertaken is to add staff to increase the number of electives at both the middle school and high school and add new programs such as an agricultural program. We tried to focus on getting kids connected with school again. We added electives so they have a reason to want to be here above and beyond the courses that are traditionally offered, he said in a telephone interview. Hudson Falls also has added over a dozen new intramurals and extracurricular activities such as e-sports, summer band program, art and literary magazine club and wellness and mindfulness club, according to Ward. He said the goal is to get students to school. It has been a challenge to get attendance to return to pre-pandemic levels, as COVID-19 disrupted the structure students had. We really do think if we can get our kids to attend school more regularly, we can move the needle on all the challenges were seeing, he said. The district also increased behavioral health services at the high school and middle school and added more counselors and social workers at the elementary level, according to Ward. While not excited to see the decrease in the graduation rate, Ward said he is encouraged that the data also shows that 15% of the 2018 group of students are still enrolled meaning they are still working to complete their schoolwork to graduate. Give those kids credit hanging in there, he said. Other districts that decreased include Cambridge, Fort Ann, Granville, Indian Lake, Minerva, North Warren, Salem, Schroon Lake and South Glens Falls. Statewide trends New York State School Boards Association spokeswoman Cathy Woodruff said it is good that the graduation rates continue on an upward trend, but there is still more work to do. Were still concerned that there are such disparities between overall performance and particular groups of students, including Black and Hispanic students, students with disabilities and students with disadvantages economically as well, she said. For Black students, the graduation rate increased from 80.3% to 81.8%. For Hispanic students, it went from 80.2% to 80.3%. Schools are still dealing with the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. She said there are a variety of factors that may have affected students learning. Maybe they didnt do well with remote learning or maybe they couldnt access remote learning well because of a broadband issue. Certainly, there were social disruptions, she said. In some ways, its remarkable that the trend has continued to come up with as many challenges students and families have had, she added. State education officials quietly released the data on Thursday without a lot of fanfare or advance warning. There was not a briefing from the commissioner but merely a link to a PowerPoint presentation and a statement. New Yorks graduation rate continues its steady, upward trend. Despite the sustained trajectory, additional work must be done to improve outcomes for all students, especially our most vulnerable populations, spokeswoman Emily DeSantis said in the statement. Schools use several strategies to assess student learning so appropriate services and supports can be provided. Additionally, teachers use multiple measures to determine if students have attained the knowledge and skills required to pass their courses and are ready to graduate. Graduation rates are one data point that helps the department identify which districts and schools need support, she went on to say. Our goal is to enable schools to provide different levels of support to each student based on what they need to be successful. The department remains committed to removing barriers to opportunity for students and providing a foundation for educational excellence and equity to serve New Yorks diverse student population. 2022 graduation rates The following is the percentage of students who entered school in the fall of 2018 and graduated by August 2022 compared with those who started school in the fall of 2017 and graduated by August 2021. School district 2022 2021 Change Argyle 85 81 0 Bolton 100 100 0 Cambridge 91 93 3 Corinth 89 88 0 Fort Ann 81 84 3 Fort Edward 82 72 10 Glens Falls 82 79 3 Granville 83 85 -2 Greenwich 92 91 1 Hadley-Luzerne 84 82 2 Hartford 89 85 4 Hudson Falls 74 81 -7 Indian Lake 92 100 -8 Johnsburg 95 85 10 Lake George 94 90 4 Long Lake N.A. N.A. N.A. Minerva 71 89 -18 Newcomb 100 100 0 North Warren 73 83 -10 Queensbury 92 88 4 Salem 86 86 0 Saratoga Springs 93 94 -1 Schroon Lake 88 100 -12 Schuylerville 99 93 6 South Glens Falls 86 91 -5 Ticonderoga 90 91 -1 Warrensburg 93 81 12 Whitehall 76 70 6 MICHAEL GOOT 80b22596-a4c3-11ed-b553-ef506b561595 County governments face a surprise revenue shortage if a proposal in Gov. Kathy Hochuls state budget plan to no longer share federal emergency Medicaid funds with counties comes to fruition. Locally, more than $6 million would be shifted from Warren, Washington and Saratoga counties coffers combined, to the state, in order to expand overall Medicaid services. The counties have received the funding, and were expecting to continue receiving it, under a measure that U.S. Sen. Charles Schumer, D-N.Y., inserted into a federal coronavirus relief bill in 2020, providing New York, among other states, with temporary enhanced emergency Medicaid funding. Since 2020, the state has passed along a portion of that emergency Medicaid funding to counties, which, in New York, cover a portion of Medicaid costs. Under Hochuls state budget plan, released Wednesday, the state would no longer share a portion of that emergency federal funding with counties. The New York State Association of Counties estimates that as much a $1 billion statewide would be shifted from county to state coffers. Warren County would lose an estimated $1.57 million, Washington County $1.44 million and Saratoga County $3.14 million. At a time when New York is facing an affordability crisis, the last thing the governor should be doing is burden local taxpayers with more costs. We sincerely hope the governor will reconsider this misguided proposal, said Michael Zurlo, president of NYSAC, in a news release. Medicaid is a joint federal, state and county health care and nursing home program for the poor, elderly and disabled. Matthew Janiszewski, a spokesman for Hochul, said the emergency federal funding was intended to offset the increase in Medicaid costs because of the pandemic. However, the state capped county Medicaid costs in 2015, making the sharing of the emergency payments essentially duplicative. Governor Hochul understands the financial burdens that are placed on county governments. Given the governors historic health care investments, the state is utilizing the available federal dollars to fund critical investments in Medicaid to ensure access, promote equity and stabilize the health system serving New Yorks most vulnerable New Yorkers, Janiszewski said in a statement. Hochuls proposed budget includes continuing the cap on county Medicaid costs. State Assemblywoman Carrie Woerner, D-Round Lake, said the governors proposal to no longer share the emergency Medicaid funding with counties is wrong, both in substance and in timing. Counties base their budgets on the calendar year, while the state budget is based on a fiscal year that begins April 1. The change would leave counties with shortfalls months after county budgets were already set, she explained. I will be arguing against that change, she said in a telephone interview. State Assemblyman Matt Simpson, R-Horicon, said the proposed shift is an example of the every-day two-step in which the state takes money from one source to pay for the expansion of another. Im extremely disappointed, he said in a telephone interview. Warren County Administrator John Taflan said the proposed cost shift is an example of the challenges counties face because of unfunded mandates. Members of the Warren County Board of Supervisors have long had concerns about the amount of Medicaid costs that are passed on to local taxpayers, and we hope the governor will reconsider this proposal, he said in a statement. William T. Daly, a Day One Stockton University professor who helped draw students to the Atlantic County college, died Jan. 31 after battling Parkinsons dementia. He was 83. Daly was a distinguished professor emeritus of political science who had been at the school since its opening in 1971 in Atlantic Citys Mayflower Hotel, Stockton President Harvey Kesselman said in a statement. Bill was the embodiment of the founding vision of Stockton, and his articulation of and unwavering commitment to the Stockton Idea will remain a part of who we are for as long as there is a Stockton University, Kesselman said. At our opening in 1971, Bill was the face of Stockton to the external community as he offered courses at the Mayflower Hotel that were open to the public. These courses drew hundreds of students and community members. Amazingly, he memorized the names of each one of those students by the end of the first week of classes then and throughout his career. He was always available to students who needed guidance and support, from early morning to late at night. I know of no one in Stocktons history who was a better teacher and advisor than Bill. Daly was born in Doylestown, Ohio, in 1939 and was one of six children to John and Margaret Daly, according to his obituary. He got his undergraduate degree at George Washington University and his doctorate at Princeton. Atlantic City forum spotlights safety concerns at houses of worship ATLANTIC CITY In light of recent attacks on a New Jersey church and synagogue, the Atlanti Daly taught more than 50 years as a political science professor, beginning in 1966 at the University of Missouri Kansas City, his obituary reads. He also taught at Grinnell College in Iowa in 1970 before becoming a founding faculty member a year later at Stockton, where he was a nine-time Professor of the Year in social sciences. He helped start many educational programs at the school, some still going today, including the Educational Opportunity Fund program for disadvantaged students. Daly wrote and hosted the first videotaped course of 26 half-hour segments at Stockton called America and Her Critics from 1973-75 and rebroadcast from 1978-79. He founded The Stockton Connection, which worked for years with high school teachers across the state to bridge the gap between college and high school. He is survived by his wife, Nancy, of 61 years, his daughters Beth DeVos and Kit Tidwell, four grandchildren and four of his five siblings. Visitation will be held at Wimberg Funeral Home (211 E. Great Creek Road, Galloway Township) from 3 to 5 p.m. Feb. 17. A memorial service will be directly after. Donations in Dalys memory can be made to the Stockton University Foundation at give.stockton.edu. There must be something special in the water (or juice?) in Erin Zarzyckis fourth grade class. For the second time, a group of her students is trying to persuade New Jersey lawmakers to make cranberry juice a state symbol. Their project began in 2020 when students at Eleanor Rush Intermediate School in Cinnaminson became lobbyists writing letters, visiting the Statehouse to learn how a bill becomes a law, and eventually persuading two lawmakers to sponsor their proposal. But the legislative session ended without a vote on the bill, dashing their hopes. And the pandemic further put the legislation on a back burner. The class that got the juices flowing graduated, and now two years later are sixth graders in nearby Cinnaminson Middle School. Now, the legislation has been reintroduced by Assemblywoman Carol Murphy (D-Burlington) with a new cosponsor, Sen. Fred Madden (D-Gloucester). And Zarzyckis current batch of fourth graders is optimistic it will eventually make it into law this time. Im excited about this bill, Murphy said in an interview. Its getting our young folks to understand democracy and what a bill means. They advocated for this. Their efforts started during a lesson on state symbols, and Zarzyckis former elementary students were surprised to learn that New Jersey doesnt have a state beverage. They began brainstorming and soon rejected tomato juice they didnt think that would be popular and turned down blueberry juice, too. Atlantic City Rescue Mission feeds residents more than a meal on Thanksgiving ATLANTIC CITY For hundreds of people in the area who werent fortunate enough to have food They ultimately selected cranberry juice to celebrate the states cranberry-growing heritage. New Jerseys cranberry production ranks third in the country behind Wisconsin and Massachusetts with an annual harvest valued at $15.8 million. I think its cool, said Anna Santara, 10. In the future, people who will be learning about New Jersey will remember us. In a class this week, Zarzycki gave students an update on the status of the bill, which recently cleared the Assembly Agriculture and Food Security Committee. Both houses must approve it before it lands on the desk of Gov. Phil Murphy. I feel like the momentum is back, Zarzycki said. I think were going to get it done. Zarzycki said the original version of the bill has been amended slightly with some language changes. For example, it proposes to make cranberry juice the state juice, not the state beverage. Students agreed with the changes. Sitting on the floor while they watched a slide presentation on a whiteboard, students eagerly fielded questions on how they could get involved in making laws. Some students, like Ben Lonardo, 10, said they want to tackle other topics: Make gun violence less, he said. Drought ends in most of South Jersey after six-day-long nor'easter The inches upon inches of rain in South Jersey from a seemingly everlasting noreaster broug Lets make the kids from three years ago proud, said another student, Hunter Mazzacano, 9. The students sat in small groups to conduct research about cranberries, a tart berry grown first by the Lenni-Lenape people in South Jersey, who used it in remedies, food, and drinks. Most of the cranberries harvested in the state come from Ocean Spray Cooperative, which comprises more than 700 growers that produce bottled cranberry juice and cranberry sauce. I actually never tried it, Avery Sanford, 9, sheepishly admitted. Now that were learning this lesson, I think Im going to try it. The students paired up to write letters to lawmakers urging them to support the bill. They also made posters to display on the classroom wall. Zarzycki plans to make a video to send to Trenton. In the pitch, Chiamaka Onyeneke and Quinn Coston, both 9, wrote: We all want cranberry juice to be our new state juice. This might be the first New Jersey state juice if this works. Murphy reintroduced another bill by a Camden County student that would establish blueberry cheesecake as a state muffin. (Laws designating the blueberry as the state fruit and Hadrosaurus foulkii as the state dinosaur were also proposed by students.) Drought expands in South Jersey, 7th straight week of being dry For the seventh week in a row, drought conditions are present in southeastern New Jersey. Wh Delize Patterson, of Voorhees, was 11 when she came up with the state muffin idea. Then a seventh grader, she researched it and recruited fellow members of Jack and Jill of America, a leadership organization founded by Black mothers during the Depression, to organize a statewide tasting contest of several muffin varieties. The judges, which included Murphy, chose the blueberry cheesecake muffin. Patterson, now 17 and a senior at Eastern Regional High School considering a career in law, says she has learned a lot about politics. Ive been blessed to be a part of this, Patterson said. I just wanted to do something that would affect my community. Murphy said she remains committed to getting both bills passed. She rejected criticism from some that she should focus on more urgent matters. I take a lot of pride in people asking me to help them, Murphy said. PLEASE BE ADVISED: Soon we will no longer integrate with Facebook for story comments. The commenting option is not going away, however, readers will need to register for a FREE site account to continue sharing their thoughts and feedback on stories. If you already have an account (i.e. current subscribers, posting in obituary guestbooks, for submitting community events), you may use that login, otherwise, you will be prompted to create a new account. Many senior Congress leaders refrained from issuing any statement on the controversy. (PTI file image) The Adani-Hindenburg Research controversy provided sufficient ammunition for the Opposition to mount a spirited attack against the government in Parliament last week. This issue was especially picked up because Gautam Adani, the man in the eye of a storm, is close to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Despite the protests witnessed in both Houses, many senior Congress leaders refrained from issuing any statement on the controversy. There was radio silence from Congress chief ministers Ashok Gehlot, Bhupesh Baghel and Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu and the partys state chiefs. These leaders are obviously constrained from commenting as the Adani Group has large projects in their states. In fact, this is true of other Opposition-ruled states as well. Consequently, the notices issued by the combined Opposition in Parliament focused on the investments made by LIC and public sector banks in "companies losing market value" and did not target Mr Adani personally. Where does senior leader Digvijaya Singh figure in the partys pecking order? Its a question which is proving difficult to answer. It was believed Mr Singh was out in the cold after Rahul Gandhi dismissed his controversial statement that there was no proof about the 2016 surgical strikes conducted by the Indian Army across the Line of Control in Pakistan. Congress communication chief Jairam Ramesh also put out a sharp tweet, distancing the party from Mr Singhs comment. When mediapersons asked him about his comment, Mr Singh pointed to Mr Ramesh with a caustic remark, "ask Jairam, hes the power bank of the party", suggesting there was tension between Mr Singh and Mr Ramesh, currently close to Rahul Gandhi. While Mr Singh was among the chief organisers of the foot march, he was pretty much invisible during the yatra, seen as yet another sign that Mr Singhs clout in the party is waning. However, its not all over for the veteran leader. Despite the recent controversy, the Gandhis have reposed faith in Mr Singh for he has been given charge of planning the next leg of the yatra from the Northeast to western India. No one had heard of Aashish Chandorkar, director of Bengaluru-based think tank Smahi Foundation of Policy and Research, till he hit the headlines two years ago with his appointment as counsellor in Indias Permanent Mission in the World Trade Organisation, the first "private" person to get this job. It was no secret that he was being rewarded by the Narendra Modi government for amplifying the ruling dispensations right-wing agenda. Mr Chandorkar was in the news again recently after he authored a book titled Braving A Viral Storm on the successful management of the Covid pandemic by the Modi government. As a government favourite, Mr Chandorkars book was appropriately promoted in Delhi. He was also invited to speak on Covid-19 by several organisations, including the Indian Council for Cultural Relations, which is essentially mandated to showcase the countrys cultural heritage. Mr Chandorkars lecture at a dinner organised for delegates participating in the ICCRs Gen Next Democracy Network Programme appeared to be a last minute inclusion. The buzz is that the ICCR was probably prodded into inviting Mr Chandorkar as the first invite for the dinner did not mention the lecture. It was appended two days later. Ever since Maharashtra governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari publicly declared that he wished to step down, Mumbais political circles have been busy speculating about the names of his successor. Om Mathur, former Rajya Sabha member, and a senior Bharatiya Janata Party leader from Rajasthan, is said to be a chief contender. Mr Mathur is known to be close to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and has done a stint as the partys Gujarat in charge. Former Punjab chief minister Amarinder Singh was also mentioned as a possibility but the former maharaja is far too free spirited to be caged in a Raj Bhavan. Besides, Maharashtra is an important state for the BJP and it would prefer that a party loyalist occupies the Raj Bhavan in Mumbai. The BJP is currently drawing up a list of leaders who can be entrusted with gubernatorial responsibilities as the terms of several governors, including Anandibehn in Uttar Pradesh, are to end soon. Given that "Make in India" is the Modi governments flagship programme, potential investors and or those who can facilitate investment in this ambitious scheme are wooed assiduously. These visitors to the Niti Aayog office, which handles the Make in India project, are at pains to explain the benefits of investing in this scheme. This hard sell includes plying visitors with gifts, which are obviously home-grown items. One such recent visitor was taken aback when he was given a bottle of red wine called "JNoon" with his name embossed on it and told that it was a local product. Though foreign visitors are routinely given gifts, these usually comprise Indian handicrafts and textiles. The presentation of a wine bottle by government officials was, therefore, a surprise. This was particularly so as the present ruling party espouses the consumption of non-vegetarian food and is certainly not in favour of imbibing alcohol as it does not sit well with its "dharmic" beliefs. However, the recipients of the gift are not complaining as it turned out to be a good wine. Three bodies found Thursday in the Detroit area are believed those of three rappers who have been missing for almost two weeks, a spokesperson for the city of Highland Park said. The bodies were found in Highland Park, roughly 6 miles northwest of Detroit, Highland Park spokesperson LaKisha Brown said. Michigan State Police, who are leading the investigation into the bodies, have not confirmed their identities. Victims were found in an abandoned Highland Park apartment complex, they said Thursday evening. "As of now we haven't confirmed the identity of any victims inside or a manner of death," officials with Michigan State Police Second District tweeted. "Please remember all victims have families and we don't have the luxury of guessing on their identity and then retracting if we didn't get it right. Once information is confirmed we will update (on Twitter)." State police said a homicide task force, troopers, and workers from their forensic lab were part of the investigation team at the complex. Forensic scientists from the state police lab were making their way into the building and beginning to gather evidence, state police said Thursday evening. "The building is in very poor condition and rat invested which is slowing progress." Armani Kelly, 28; Dante Wicker, 31; and Montoya Givens, 31, who are all associates, were supposed to perform at a club in Detroit on Jan. 21, but the performance was canceled, police have said. Activity on their cell phones stopped early on Jan. 22, according to authorities. A car connected to at least one of the three was found in the city of Warren, which is only a few miles from Highland Park, on Jan. 23, Detroit police had said. Different types of alerts and what they mean What exactly is a Silver Alert? What exactly is an AMBER Alert? What exactly is a Blue Alert? What exactly is an Ashanti Alert? What exactly is a Green Alert? We chilled, chilled and chilled some more Friday. Now, well bottom out Saturday morning with wind chills below zero. Saturday will be our coldest day since Christmas. However, well warm, warm and warm some more Saturday night into Sunday. Keep your pets inside, dress in multiple layers and make sure to leave water running that goes through those pipes exposed to the cold. With air temperatures in the low to mid-teens Saturday morning and wind chills at or just below 0, itll be hazardously cold. At least there will be some sun for those who dont like the chill. Take a trip to our north and itll be life-threatening, with wind chill warnings in cities like Albany, New York, of below -25. In northern Vermont or New York ski towns, wind chills will be -40. Brutally cold. Turning back closer to home, Arctic high pressure will pass overhead as the day goes on. Winds will lighten by 10 a.m. or so, which will keep wind chills close to air temperatures. The thing is, air temperatures will only rise to the mid-20s by sunset. Even with a light breeze, itll still feel like the mid-teens. However, winds will go from coming out of the northwest in the morning to the southwest in the afternoon. Just as temperatures fall all day Friday, they will rise all night Saturday. We should be in the upper 20s to near 30 by midnight Saturday. Come Sundays sunrise, well be back to the mild-for-winter conditions weve become accustomed to, sitting in the mid-30s. Well keep rising from there. That clockwise-spinning high pressure will usher in a gusty southwest wind as the day goes on. Well be in the 40s by late morning. Daytime highs will sit right around 50 degrees. That cold snap will be just a memory. Morning sun will give way to afternoon clouds. On Sunday night, a coastal storm will move up the Southeastern U.S. coast before moving out to sea. A piece of it will ride along those southwesterly winds. Thatll open up the window for a shower between 8 p.m. and 3 a.m., primarily along the shore and in Cape May County. Expect many of us to be dry. Monday morning lows will be in the mid-30s. From there, well be off to another seasonable to above average stretch of temperatures. Mondays highs will be similar to Sundays with a mix of sun and clouds. Well be solidly in the 50s Tuesday and Wednesday. Mild air from the Southeast will waft in around a ridge of upper-level high pressure off the coast of Florida. A surface cold front will bring clouds, with possibly isolated showers Tuesday night. Otherwise, well be dry. Want something warm to do Saturday morning? Check out the latest episode of the Something in the Air podcast, where we recap the mild January with New Jersey State Climatologist Dave Robinson. Actor says Dilli-6 residents expected Akshay Kumar to show up Actress Aisha Ahmed, who is gearing up for her new streaming series Minus One: New Chapter, recently recollected her experience on shooting for the series bang in the middle of Delhi in Chandni Chowk. The actress admitted to being completely bowled over by the lip-smacking street food during the shoot but one thing she vividly remembered was how people around the location thought that Akshay Kumar is coming for the shoot given Khiladi Kumar has already shot a film with Chandni Chowk in its title. Aisha said, Ive shot in Amritsar before but that was a guerrilla shoot, but here it was a proper shoot set up and we were bang in the middle of old Delhi. She further mentioned: That was really fun, people were just standing and watching. One thing Ill never forget is that we could hear people going around and saying Akshay Kumar aa raha hai and Ayush and I were looking at each other and thinking - Bro? Akshay Kumar? We didnt know that. Being in a sweet old town like that It was just a beautiful feeling. IANS An Assistant Sub-Inspector of Central Reserve Police Force allegedly shot himself with his service gun in the national Capital, an official said on Saturday. The incident took place on Friday around 4 p.m. and the victim has been identified as 53-year-old Rajbir Singh. "He was deployed at Intelligence Bureau Director's residence," the official said. "No suicide note has been recovered and the post-mortem will be conducted today, following which his body will be handed over to the family members," the official added. IANS Microsoft co-founder makes chapatti with chef Bernath, relishes it #SANFRANCISCO Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates made roti along with celebrity chef Eitan Bernath, who recently returned from a trip to Bihar, and ate it with ghee. A video was shared by Gates on the social media platform Instagram, in which Bernath teaches Gates how to make a roti. "We had a blast making Indian Roti together. Eitan just got back from a trip to Bihar, India where he met wheat farmers whose yields have been dramatically increased thanks to new early sowing technologies," Gates wrote in the caption. "He also met with women from 'Didi Ki Rasoi' community canteens who graciously shared their expertise in making the perfect roti." In the video, the duo was making rotis and brushing them with ghee. When Bernath asked Gates, "When is the last time you think you cooked?" "Well, if heating up soup counts, I do that regularly," Microsoft's co-founder replied. In February last year, Gates had praised India for the development, manufacturing and distribution of Covid-19 vaccines and termed the country's vaccine coverage as "very impressive". IANS Will study impact of climate change; to discover new insights in NASAs massive trove of Earth and geospatial science data #NEWDELHI Tech major IBM and NASAs Marshall Space Flight Center have announced a collaboration to use IBMs artificial intelligence (AI) technology to discover new insights in NASAs massive trove of Earth and geospatial science data. The goal of this joint work is to advance the scientific understanding and response to Earth and climaterelated issues like natural disasters and warming temperatures, also the joint work will apply the new IBM AI foundation model technology to NASAs Earth-observing satellite data for the first time. Foundation models are types of AI models that are trained on a broad set of unlabeled data, can be used for different tasks, and can apply information about one situation to another. Applying foundation models to geospatial, event-sequence, time-series, and other non-language factors within Earth science data could make enormously valuable insights and information suddenly available to a much wider group of researchers, businesses, and citizens. Ultimately, it could facilitate a larger number of people working on some of our most pressing climate issues, Raghu Ganti, principal researcher at IBM, said in a statement. Over the last five years, these models have rapidly advanced the field of natural language processing (NLP) technology, and IBM is pioneering applications of foundation models beyond language, said the company. Building these foundation models cannot be tackled by small teams, Rahul Ramachandran, senior research scientist at NASAs Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, Alabama, said in a statement. You need teams across different organisations to bring their different perspectives, resources, and skill sets, he added. Moreover, IBM and NASA plan to develop several new technologies to extract insights from Earth observations. The first model will be trained on over 3,00,000 earth science publications in order to thematically organise the literature and make it easier to search for and discover new knowledge. The second model will be trained using the popular Harmonized Landsat Sentinel-2 (HLS2) satellite dataset from the USGS and NASA, with applications ranging from detecting natural hazards to tracking changes in vegetation and wildlife habitats, the company mentioned. Further, other potential IBM-NASA collaborative projects in this agreement include developing a foundation model for weather and climate prediction using MERRA-2, an atmospheric observation dataset. IANS Civic body wakes up from deep slumber only after its own man raises the issue about an illegal six-storey building, starts sending notices Kondhwa, one of the suburbs in Pune that is known for illegal constructions, has finally come under the scanner of the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC). Notices are being sent to buildings flouting rules after a junior civic engineer flagged the issue. While most builders have made their money and walked away, it is the citizens who face the prospects of losing their dream homes. The engineer, Nishikant Chappekar, has filed a complaint with the Kondhwa police station against a person for allegedly obtaining permission to construct a shed, but constructing a six-storey building in Kondhwa Budruk after forging the documents. Mohammad Islam Shaikh allegedly showed the construction area of 1,104.28 sqft against the actual area of 104.28 sqft. He created fake documents to build the six-storey building, Ayasha Manzil, with space for parking. The civic body sent notice to the accused after observing the discrepancy, but he failed to respond to it. Later, the civic body filed a police complaint. A case has been filed against Shaikh under IPC sections 466, 471, 474, 468, and 420 for the unauthorised building of Survey No.16/1B/3/5/ at Kondhwa. The FIR states: Shaikh did not have building construction permission. He forged documents and changed the area figure. After receiving the notice from PMC, he failed to submit the original documents and thus, landed in trouble. Chappekar said it is very risky in Kondhwa, as there are numerous illegal constructions. We intend to continue monitoring illegal buildings and sending notices; if they do not respond, we will file police complaints. We will also raze the illegal structures. Police inspector Sanjay Mogale said, We filed a case against the person who built the six-storey building in the Kondhwa neighbourhood after receiving a complaint from a PMC official. We are investigating the case. Kondhwa has become a hotspot for illegal constructions. However, following this incident, PMC officials began taking action. The owners of such properties have been served with notices, and if they do not reply, the PMC will file a police case against the perpetrators, said civic officials. A citizen said on condition of anonymity, The real estate sector is reaching new heights in Pune owing to rising high demand. Rampant illegal constructions under the nose of the PMC is shocking. It has been noticed that PMC engineers and officials from the building permission department are hand in glove with offenders, assisting them in the creation of counterfeit documents and securing approval, added the citizen. "We filed a case against the person who built the six-storey building in the Kondhwa area after receiving a complaint from a PMC official. We are probing the case" PI Sanjay Mogale MCOCA accused Nanasaheb Gaikwad stabbed with an iron plate in Yerwada Central Jail A new instance of stone pelting between old and new convicts occurred a few days ago at the Yerwada Central Jail in Pune. The act caused a stir in Yerawada Central Jail. Subhash Mansingh Darekar (54 years old) of Yerwada Central Jail has filed a complaint in this matter. Nana Gaikwad was attacked with an iron sheet by Bandi Suresh Baliram Karshimu in Yerwada Central Jail. Around 11:45 a.m., the under trial was cleaning two rooms, namely room no.1 and room no.12. Nanasaheb Shankarao Gaikwad, a prisoner in room no.1, was seated on a chair in front of his chamber at the time. Suresh Baliram Karishma, the under-trial prisoner in room no. 12, was standing behind him at the time, and for no apparent reason, he smacked the under-trial prisoner Nanasaheb Shankarao Gaikwad in the upper right cheek with a piece of iron sheet in his hand and began walking towards the rear room. Following that, the police apprehended undertrial prisoner Suresh Baliram Karshimu and confined him in his cell. Nanasaheb Gaikwad was then sent to Jail Hospital Yerawada for treatment. On the authority of the Senior Jail Officer, a complaint was filed at Yerwada Police Station against inmate Suresh Baliram Karmishya. Suresh Baliram Karshimu, the prisoner, avoided the police and stabbed the under-trial prisoner Nanasaheb Shankarao Gaikwad in the right side of his upper cheek for no apparent cause. Following this occurrence, Suresh Baliram Karshimi, who is now barred, filed a complaint against the B&DV. A complaint has been filed in accordance with Section 324. The Pune Police had previously requested that the prisoner Nana Gaikwad be transferred from Yerawada Jail. Nana Gaikwad was charged with a crime at Chatushringi police station for making friend requests on social media while incarcerated. He was also under pressure in a variety of ways. The police requested in court in September 2022 to transfer Nana Gaikwad to another jail. The Biden administration is in talks with Indian officials over a possible White House visit by Prime Minister Narendra Modi later this year. (AP file image) WASHINGTON: The Biden administration is in talks with Indian officials over a possible White House visit by Prime Minister Narendra Modi later this year, according to a U.S. official aware of the discussions and another person briefed on the matter. U.S. President Joe Biden is eager to deepen ties with the world's largest democracy as part of his bid to win what he has framed as a contest between free and autocratic societies, especially China. The White House and the Indian Embassy in Washington declined to comment. Dates are not finalized, the sources said. Discussions about a possible White House visit intensified this week as Indian National Security Adviser Ajit Doval met with his U.S. counterpart, Jake Sullivan, and Secretary of State Antony Blinken in Washington. During the visit, the United States and India launched a partnership to deepen ties on military equipment, semiconductors and artificial intelligence. New Delhi has frustrated Washington by participating in military exercises with Russia and increasing purchases of the country's crude oil, a key source of funding for the war in Ukraine. Washington has been pushing New Delhi to do more to punish Russia for the Ukraine invasion. India proposed on Wednesday hiking military spending for the upcoming year by 13% to $72.6 billion as it seeks to add more fighter jets and roads along its tense border with China. India and China share a 2,100-mile (3,400-kilometer) frontier that has been disputed since the 1950s The U.S. president is expected to make his own trip to New Delhi in September for the G20 meetings hosted by India. Biden is also expected to meet with Modi during a mid-year meeting of the Quad countries, which is hosted by Australia and also includes Japan. Those countries, along with South Korea, are key to Biden's strategy of strengthening regional alliances and shoring up Asian security in the face of threats including China's claims of Taiwan and vast swathes of the South China Sea. President George W. Bush's administration in 2005 denied Modi a U.S. visa after a 2002 incident where more than 1,000 people, mostly Muslims, were killed in sectarian riots in the Indian state of Gujarat, where he had been chief minister. Modi denied any wrongdoing. He was first invited to the White House after he became prime minister in 2014 by Barack Obama. Modi's Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) won a record-breaking victory in his home state Gujarat in December and is widely expected to win the next general election in 2024. For years, residents of serene Lonavala harassed by noisy parties; police reiterate call for citizens collaboration to rein in revellers With the Pune Rural Police having severely clamped down on the rave party at Lonavala early this week, which allegedly had vulgar overtones, the long-awaited process of getting rid of such nuisance seems to have started. It has been some time, more precisely years, that the peace of residents of this hill station has been played with by people, mostly outsiders, who hire private bungalows to have a gala time, especially on weekends. With no stringent norms laid down, either by the owners of these bungalows/apartments or the police, the brash celebrations with loud music played by DJs and noisy crowds make life unbearable for residents. Bungalows on rent in Lonavala for such parties are easily available at both budget and luxury prices. Satya Sai Karthik, assistant superintendent of police, Pune Rural, who led the raid on the rave party, said, Parties in private bungalows have become a social nuisance for Lonavala residents as DJ music is used at these venues. This leads to the nuisance of high noise decibels even beyond the prescribed time limit of 10 pm. We regularly get complaints from citizens and are taking action against such offenders. Renewing his call when he took over as ASP in November 2022, Karthik appealed to citizens to collaborate with him to bring back peace to Lonavala. The officer states that he is a phone call away and people are welcome to call him at 7993148779. He assures that he will immediately get into action. For the last one and a half decades, Lonavala has been on the national rave party map. Time and again, parties have been busted by the police. In one such party, several students of a reputed Pune college were involved. Earlier, Pune Rural Police had evidence of drug usage and tripping the line of morality in such parties. The Pune Rural Police, which tackles highdensity traffic snarls in Lonavala, which are accentuated during weekends, is now focusing on private parties which are violating norms of decency as prescribed in the law. Stringent rules like the police making the owners responsible for any such activity when they give their bungalows on hire, ensuring that they have the identity cards of party organisers and participants, could perhaps help in making enforcement of laws more effective. A Davenport man on probation in Scott County for selling meth and marijuana was arrested Thursday by Davenport Police for allegedly trafficking in ecstasy. Jonathan Michael Gonzales, 23, is charged with one count of possession with the intent to deliver more than 5 grams of methylenedioxymethamphetamine, or MDMA, commonly known as ecstasy. The charge is a Class B felony under Iowa law that carries a prison sentence of 25 years. Gonzales also is charged with violating Iowas drug tax stamp law, a Class D felony that carries a prison sentence of five years. According to the arrest affidavit filed by Davenport Police Officer Michael Catton, at 8:19 p.m. Thursday officers spotted a gray Kia Optima that was traveling east on 14th Street from Harrison Street. The Kia had fled from an attempted traffic stop police tried to make earlier in the evening, about 5 p.m. Officers were able to block the vehicle in at the intersection of 14th and Brady streets. Gonzales was the front-seat passenger at the time the vehicle was stopped. During a patdown of Gonzales, officers felt what was immediately apparent to be a bag of pills in the defendants pant leg, according to the affidavit. Officers located and seized a clear plastic bag that contained 92 pills suspected of being ecstasy. The pills tested positive for methamphetamine using a Nartec field testing kit. Officers then searched a camouflage cross body bag Gonzales had on and found two more pills that tested positive for methamphetamine. During a first appearance on the charges Friday in Scott County District Court, Magistrate Catherine Cartee scheduled a preliminary hearing on the charges for Feb. 10. According to electronic records from the Iowa Department of Corrections and Scott County District Court, Gonzales is on probation until Feb. 18, 2023, for meth and marijuana delivery. In that case, on May 31, 2020, Gonzales was arrested Aug. 31, 2020, on one count of possession with the intent to deliver more than 5 grams of ecstasy, two counts of possession with the intent to deliver marijuana, two counts of unlawful possession of a prescription drug and one count of possession with the intent to deliver more than 5 grams of meth. On Dec. 15, 2020, Gonzales pleaded guilty to one count of the lesser included charge of possession with the intent to deliver less than 5 grams of methamphetamine, a Class C felony that carries a prison sentence of 10 years. He also pleaded guilty to possession with the intent to deliver marijuana, a Class D felony. The other charges were dismissed in accordance with a plea agreement. On Feb. 18, 2021, District Court Judge Mark Fowler sentenced Gonzales to two years on supervised probation. Fowler also granted deferred judgement in the case, meaning that had Gonzales successfully completed his probation the case could have been expunged and sealed from public record. However, a deferred judgement still may show up on a background check and, even after the case is expunged, it still could be considered a conviction. With his new arrest, Scott County prosecutors could file to have Gonzales probation revoked, and he could be sentenced to prison on the charges to which he pleaded guilty. Gonzales was being held Friday night in the Scott County Jail on a $10,000 bond, cash or surety. A Davenport man has been accused of making terrorist threats against the LGBTQ+ community. Austin K. McNeal, 24, faces charges of first-degree harassment and threat of terrorism, according to Scott County court records. The charges relate to an allegation that McNeal recorded an online video in which he detailed a plan to commit mass murder and claimed to be armed. The victim, who was not identified in court documents, feared McNeal was an imminent threat, court records state. The behavior of the defendant caused undue distress due to the threats of terrorism, according to the court records. The defendant made a series of extremely vulgar and graphic comments regarding his plan to murder members of this community. The Davenport Police Department began an investigation after being notified of the post early Tuesday, court records state. The video was posted on the BIGO app. McNeals bond has been set at $200,000, and it must be posted in cash, the jail website shows. He was booked at 1:48 a.m. Friday and remained in custody Friday afternoon. McNeal made his initial appearance on the charges Friday morning, court records state. His next court date is scheduled for Feb. 10. Kari Lake, the Republican candidate for Arizona governor who denies without evidence she lost the 2022 election, is making a stop at her stomping grounds. The Scott County Republican Women are hosting a ticketed meet-and-greet with Lake, a North Scott High School graduate, Friday, Feb. 10, in Bettendorf. After spending decades as a local news anchor in Arizona, Lake ran and narrowly lost an election for Arizona governor in 2022. She made former President Donald Trump's false claims of election fraud a focal point of her midterm campaign. Lake lost by less than a percentage point to Arizona Secretary of State Katie Hobbs, a Democrat. Lake brought a lawsuit claiming intentional election misconduct by Arizona's most populous county's election officials caused her to lose the election. An Arizona judge dismissed her claims for lack of evidence. Tickets for the event are available online. She's not the only national Republican politician to visit Iowa, the state that goes first on the presidential-nomination calendar, this month. Former ambassador to the UN Nikki Haley is expected to launch her presidential campaign later this month, according to national news reports, and visit Iowa shortly afterward. Sen. Tim Scott, R-S.C., will visit Polk County this month amid speculation that he may launch a bid for the presidency. A Park View man was in custody Saturday, accused of robbing a person in January. Scott County authorities have charged Thadis Boutwell, 19, with first-degree robbery, according to county court records. The charge stems from the allegation that Boutwell used the threat of a knife and a firearm to take a phone and about $120 from the victim. He is also accused of striking the victim several times. The robbery happened about 2 p.m. on Jan. 13 at 3107 Brady St. in Davenport, according to court records. Surveillance cameras recorded at least a portion of the struggle and the victim identified Boutwell as his assailant. District Associate Judge Christine Dalton approved an arrest warrant for Boutwell on Jan. 27. He was booked into the Scott County Jail late Thursday after being arrested by Davenport Police, according to the jail website. Boutwell has a $50,000 cash-only bond. He made his first court appearance on the charge Friday morning and his next is scheduled for Feb. 10, court records state. In 2022, Boutwell was also accused of a stabbing. In that case, the allegations were that Boutwell stabbed and sliced a person during a fight Boutwell and two other people instigated around 10 p.m. on July 25 in Eldridge, according to court records. As a result, the wounded person needed 20 stitches in his hand and wrist, court records state. The victim needed another four stitches for a wound in his buttocks. Authorities initially charged Boutwell with willful injury causing serious injury and going armed with intent, but those charges were dismissed as part of a plea agreement. In November, Boutwell pleaded guilty to a charge of assault while using or displaying a weapon, and he was sentenced to 240 days in jail with all but 90 days suspended, according to court records. He also got credit for time he had already served. He was also given a year of unsupervised probation, court records state. A Davenport man on parole in Scott County for trafficking in cocaine and who is supposed to be registered on Iowas Sex Offender Registry was arrested Thursday by Davenport Police on drug, weapons and firearms charges. Pierce Raynard Davis, 34, is accused of trafficking in cocaine base, commonly referred to as crack cocaine, possessing a stolen handgun and possessing devices that would convert a semi-automatic handgun into a fully automatic gun, police said. According to the arrest affidavits filed by Davenport Police Detective Bryan Butt, at 5:50 a.m. Thursday, members of the Davenport Police Departments Tactical Operations Bureau served a search warrant at Davis apartment located in the 2100 block of East Locust Street. During a search of the residence, officers located a clear plastic bag that contained 23.3 grams of cocaine base. The substance tested positive using a Tru Narc field test. Authorities have said that 1 gram of crack cocaine yields 2-10 doses for sale, meaning Davenport Police seized enough of the drug to make between 46.6 and 233 doses depending on how it was to be cut. In a shoebox, officers seized a loaded Springfield Arms .45-Caliber semiautomatic handgun. The weapon had been reported stolen in 2018 from a federal firearms licensee in Silvis. In the same shoebox, officers located 11 devices that would convert a Glock-style semi-automatic handgun into a fully automatic handgun, such as a machine gun. Possession of these devices is a violation of federal law. Davis is charged in Scott County District Court with one count of possession with the intent to distribute cocaine base. The charge is a Class C felony that carries a prison sentence of 10 years. He also is charged with one count each of violating Iowas drug tax stamp law, being a felon in possession of a firearm, and 11 counts of unauthorized possession of offensive weapons. Each of those charges is a Class D felony that carries a prison sentence of five years. Also, as a resident of Iowa, Davis is required to register as a sex offender as he was convicted in 2004 in Rock Island County of criminal sexual abuse. Davis is charged with violating Iowas sex offender registration statute. As a first offense, Davis faces a prison sentence of two years on that charge. During a first appearance on the charges Friday in Scott County District Court, Magistrate Catherine Cartee scheduled a preliminary hearing on the charges for Feb. 10. Davis is on parole in Iowa until Feb. 23, 2026. On Dec. 20, 2018, Davis was arrested by Davenport Police for selling cocaine, a Class C felony. He pleaded guilty to the charge on July 19, 2019, and was sentenced Aug. 29, 2019, to 15 years in the Iowa Department of Corrections as a habitual offender. He was paroled from prison on June 24, 2021. Davis was then turned over to Illinois authorities to serve a prison sentence. During a hearing in Rock Island County Circuit Court on Nov. 9, 2020, Davis was sentenced to the Illinois Department of Corrections for two years after pleading guilty to a charge of aggravated fleeing in connection with an incident that occurred on April 26, 2018. According to Scott County District Court electronic records, on Dec. 23, 2021, Davis was released from the Henry Hill Correctional Center in Galesburg and failed to report to the Iowa Parole Office. Davis is alleged to have absconded from parole. On Jan. 12, Butt called the Iowa Department of Corrections to inquire about Davis status as Davis was then under investigation by Davenport Police. That investigation led to Davis' arrest Thursday on the drug, gun and weapons charges. Federal authorities could take over the drug and weapons case under Project Safe Neighborhoods, a Justice Department initiative instituted in 2001 that brings together law enforcement at all levels to reduce gun violence. Davis allegedly was selling drugs while in possession of a firearm, which would draw a charge of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug crime. That charge carries a minimum prison sentence of five years and must run consecutively to any sentence on other drug or weapons charges. Also, it would be up to Davis attorney to prove that the gun in his possession was not being used to further his drug crime. Davis already is prohibited by federal law from possessing a firearm in that he is a convicted felon. In the federal system, the charge of being a felon on possession of a firearm carries a prison sentence of up to 15 years. There is no parole in the federal system. Davis already has served a term in federal prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm. On May 13, 2013, Davis was sentenced to 46 months in federal prison, or three years and 10 months, after pleading guilty to the gun charge. He also was to serve three years on supervised release after he completed his prison sentence. Davis violated his supervised release, and on Sept. 9, 2016, he was sentenced to serve a year in federal prison. Electronic records show Davis released from the U.S. Bureau of Prisons on May 30, 2017. Davis was being held Friday night in the Scott County Jail on cash-only bonds totaling $32,000, and without bond on a charge of parole violation. The former executive director of the nonprofit Freight House Farmers Market is accused of embezzling more than $10,000 from the Davenport market. According to an affidavit filed by Davenport police, Lorraine Beaman is charged with first-degree theft, accused of stealing $10,455 of the market's funds over two years as executive director. She used the money to remodel and purchase items for her personal business, Chill Ice Cream & Eats, and other personal purchases, according to the affidavit. Chill Ice Cream & Eats leased space at the city-owned Freight House, but the business closed at the end of December and was vacated by the first week of January, according to city staff. Beaman, 60, also used the funds to buy a trailer from her son at an "inflated price," according to court documents, as well as an Apple TV, resume builders, and to pay attorney fees for her nonprofit. The Freight House Farmers Market board members and employees declined to comment and referred the Quad-City Times/Dispatch-Argus to their attorney, who did not respond to a request for comment. An attorney for Beaman declined to comment. The market first filed as a nonprofit in 2013. Beaman took the helm as its executive director in February 2018. Most of Freight House Farmers Market funds come from membership dues from vendors, according to public tax documents. Vendors paid the nonprofit $155,873 in 2020, the most recent tax documents show. Another $28,400 came from grants. A bulk of the nonprofit's money was spent on salaries, rent, insurance, office expenses, and special events. The former liaison between the city and the Freight House building, Steve Ahrens, said his departure in October from his position had nothing to do with the alleged crime, and that he had no further details on what happened. "The market's relationship with the city is simply a tenant and landlord relationship," Ahrens said. "I have no direct affiliation or knowledge of what went on." It was recently announced that Tosha Toste was named Mrs. Colorado international. Born to Brett and Tina Skinner and raised in Hay Springs, Toste attended school there through her freshman year, before transferring to Chadron High School. Toste explained this years pageant was something of a virtual event, though the competition instill involves events of Fitness, Interview and Evening Gown. A fourth event, On-Stage question was not held because the event was not in-person. Contestants community service also factors into the judges decisions. The pageant is open to any married woman over the age of 18, Toste said, further adding there are also Miss, Teen and Pre-Teen factions of the competition. The realm of pageant competition isnt anything new to Toste, who has been competing since she was 13. Among her competitions have been Mrs. Metro, Mrs. Nebraska America, Miss America and Miss Nebraska. Her titles have included Miss Heartland, and she was Miss Chadron in 2014. As for becoming familiar with the pageant world, Toste said she was born into it. Her aunt, Shardel Nelson of Alliance, ran the Miss Alliance Pageant. Toste was a little sister, able to follow around one of the contestants for a weekend. At 13, she was old enough to compete, and fell in love with the aspect of community service and giving her a voice via her platform. Toste said her platform has changed over time, but has held to the same concept of imperfectly perfect, teaching girls and women of the importance of physical, mental and emotional health. As people, not just women, we all have hard times in life, she said. If you share your story, and allow people to understand the importance of [mental health] it really opens it up. She added she has had her own struggles with mental health, and through her platform and the resultant networking shes now on the Colorado board of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. She is also developing a podcast, Mental Health Journal, to provide an opportunity for people the share their stories, and distributes free mental health journals. A 2011 graduate of CHS, Toste was very involved with Future Business Leaders of America while in school, and credited Brenda Butler and Renae Noble for putting her on the path that led her to her current career as a talent acquisition manager for the Snooze breakfast restaurant company. She also spoke highly of Jerry Mack, who taught Stats while she was in school he became principal after she graduated and Willie Uhing, who taught English. Toste said Uhings personality helped her enjoy Cnglish, and she felt much more prepared for college level classes after his instruction. Toste and her husband, Nick, reside in Castle Rock, Colorado. She encourages and reminds youth they are important and worthy, and theres always someone to help when life gets hard. For those considering competing in pageants, she said, Just got for it. Its been an amazing 15 years for me. Its really allowed me to have a voice, give back to my community and continue to be involved with people. She further added shes learned skills such as public speaking and stage presence. Tostes next competition is Mrs. International, in Tennessee, this year, against titles holders from not only the United States but around the world. A legislative proposal to change how Nebraska's six community colleges are funded ran into stiff opposition from board members, administrators and students Thursday. Sen. Dave Murman's plan (LB783) would eliminate the ability of community colleges to levy property taxes beginning in 2026-27, and replace that funding with state appropriations. According to the bill, the community colleges would receive an amount 3.5% greater than their 2025 property tax levy, with that amount set to increase by 3.5% annually thereafter. Murman and several other members of the Legislature's Revenue Committee sponsored the bill on behalf of Gov. Jim Pillen, who proposed the measure as part of a package of bills designed to address what he described as an inequitable property tax system. "This bill gives the responsibility to the state, creating the opportunity to appropriately invest in and strengthen our community colleges and fund them fully," Pillen told the committee. LB783 was supported by the Nebraska Farm Bureau, Nebraska Cattlemen, and Americans for Prosperity, who all said ending community college's property tax levy authority would immediately benefit property taxpayers. Nebraskans paid more than $250 million in property taxes to support community colleges in 2021, according to the Platte Institute. Michael Lucci, a senior policy adviser at the conservative-leaning think tank, said removing the fourth-highest line item on a taxpayer's annual bill could save them between 5-6% in taxes paid while also simplifying the system overall. Repealing the community college property tax would move Nebraska from having the seventh-highest property taxes in the country to ninth or 10th, according to the Tax Foundation, Lucci told the committee. But community college leaders and students said they worried that eliminating the ability to levy property taxes would erode local control over their institutions and make them less responsive to the needs of students, industry partners and their communities. Randy Schmailzl, president of Metro Community College in Omaha, said previous legislatures had intended community colleges' budgets to be funded through 40% property taxes, 40% state aid and 20% student tuition. In reality, however, Metro's funding breakdown was closer to 51% property taxes, 28% state aid, and 21% tuition, he said, adding that the property tax levy allowed Metro to continue programs that served students, nearly all of whom are from the college's service area. "There's nothing that says you have to use your property tax levy if the state is fulfilling its obligation," Schmailzl said. Southeast Community College, which serves a 15-county area and has campuses in Lincoln, Beatrice and Milford, has used a capital improvement fund paid for through property taxes to revitalize its facilities and address the region's workforce needs, several board members told the committee. Neal Stenberg, the chair of the SCC Board of Governors, said eliminating the property tax levy would "severely hinder" the college's ability to train health care workers, welders, diesel technicians and information technicians. While the current Legislature could promise to fund the full amount to community colleges, Stenberg said he was skeptical that would be the case in the future. "The legislatures that come after you are not bound by that," he said. "There will be no shortage of financial crises to deal with in the future." Mid-Plains Community College President Ryan Purdy said state lawmakers have pledged more state funding before, but have had to reverse those decisions to address other needs. Without a sustainable revenue source, Purdy said Mid-Plains could be forced to close satellite locations that serve rural communities across a wide swath of the state, or hike tuition to a rate that's unattractive to students. Murman said the intention of the bill was not to limit funding to community colleges or to force them to make cuts. "I don't want to do anything to risk the funding of community colleges," he said, "but it's very important also that we make our tax system more fair to taxpayers of the state." The committee did not take any action on the bill Thursday. On Feb. 3, 2019, 9-year-old Serenity Dennard ran away from the Black Hills Children's Home. Four years later and after searches spanning 6,000 miles, neither her nor her body have been found. Although the search for Serenity officially ended two years ago, parents and law enforcement continue to look for an alarming number of children who go missing West River, which exceeds the rest of the state's numbers. Most missing children are ultimately found, but a parent tells the Journal it doesn't blunt the unmistakable terror felt when their child is missing. Parent's worst nightmare When you close your eyes, thats what you worry about, is that somebody has hurt her or taken her and she is being used or sold, Tracy Huska said of her 16-year-old daughter Emma Huska. Emma left the cabin she shared with her father at Canyon Lake Campground on Jan. 16. She took her journals and a blanket, leaving behind a note and a cut window screen in her bedroom. You dont love me, so Im leaving and you wont see me again, Michael Huska said, reading the note his daughter, who he described as artistic, wrote before leaving. Im not going to be around someone who doesnt love me. Michael said reading the note hurt, and he hopes that Emma knows it isnt true and that he does love her. Police records show that Emma is one of the 672 children reported missing in Rapid City from Jan. 1, 2022 to Jan. 31, 2023. Shes one of the 18 that are still missing, of which 15 children are Native American. I just dont want Emma to be a statistic, Tracy said, noting shes aware of the violence Native American women and girls face. Several studies show Native American women are more likely to experience violence, sexual assault or be murdered than other groups. According to a National Institute of Justice (NIJ) study, 84.3% of Native American women have experienced violence in their lifetime. Just over 56% have experienced sexual violence. The moment they just become a number, its not a priority in heads and minds. Shes my priority and I need people to keep looking for her, Tracy said through tears over the phone from North Dakota. A West River problem Across South Dakota, missing West River children comprise a disproportionate number compared to East River. As of Friday, there are a total of 84 missing children in South Dakota listed on the state's clearinghouse website. More than 50% of missing children are from West River, where only 30% of the state's population resides. Although there is a large number of children who go missing in Rapid City, few are classified as strictly missing by law enforcement. Of the 672 reports, seven of those were classified as missing by the Rapid City Police Department. The rest, like Emma, were categorized as runaways. A runaway is essentially leaving or disappearing under their own volition. A missing person is we dont know how they disappeared, Brendyn Medina, spokesperson for the RCPD said. The lack of clarification on missing children versus runaways causes confusion, Tracy Huska said. It felt like there was a big distinction between a runaway and a missing person, and I kept begging for them to put it on their Facebook page, she said. Medina said several of the runaway cases the department investigates are repeats, and Emmas parents said this isnt the first time shes taken off, but it is the first time shes been gone this long. Emma's story Emmas parents adopted her when she was a baby. From the start, she was determined. She would take a marker, and she would draw on any surface possible, so I would hide the marker in the cabinet above the refrigerator. And she would figure that out, Tracy said. I always told her, if you can put that focus and determination to good, youre gonna go so far in life and she is smart. The marriage dissolved when Emma was about 13 and then Michael moved to Rapid City. Thats when she started having trouble according to her mother, although Michael said she had issues before that after several deaths in the family. Emma had difficulties in school and with substances, staying at a youth ranch in North Dakota at one point. While living with Tracy in North Dakota, Emma cut a screen and left through a basement window a few times. She would also leave to spend time at a friends house or at the park. I dont think it had ever been more than eight or nine hours between her leaving and either her coming home or calling me or getting on social media and we could see where she was at, Tracy said. This is very different from what she has done in the past. What may have prompted Emma leaving is what her parents were trying to do to help her. Michael said Emma had been doing online school and he was paying a nanny to look after her while he worked full-time. Things were going well and Emma had made the honor roll, but Michael felt that she could use more socialization. Because of issues she had in public school, he started to look into the option of boarding schools. He and Emma interviewed at one in Kansas on Jan. 2 after a visit with her mother over the holidays, but she wasnt accepted. Michael said they visited another school in Wisconsin on Jan. 9, but they hadnt completed the application process. He thought she was okay with the idea, but her letter revealed otherwise. Im not going to some boarding school for 12 hours away for no reason, she wrote. Reporting difficulties Emma's case wasn't initially posted on the RCPD's social media, where a number of cases are posted throughout the year in what's become a too-familiar routine. "The rule of thumb we use is whether or not there is reason to believe the child is at a higher risk of harm weighted against their prior history as a runaway and their previous attempts to actively avoid contact attempts by law enforcement/parents, etc." Medina wrote in an email to the Journal. Higher risks of harm include suicidal tendencies and threats, inclement weather, health issues and medication needs, he said. Tracy said she begged investigators to post her daughter's case on social media, which they did on Thursday because of "a declining number of investigative leads." It's not uncommon for investigators to have several open cases on their plate at the same time, Medina said. With runaways, if a child goes to school, the school resource officer associated with the school takes on the case, according to the police department. If they do not attend school, then the case is assigned to a detective in investigations. "I don't think there's enough manpower to follow up on all the missing people in the Rapid City area," Tracy said. "I get you can't do it full-time." Emma is 5-foot, 6-inches tall, 207 pounds with brown eyes and hair dyed half-red and half-black. Anyone with any information about her whereabouts, or the location of any missing child, should contact the RCPD at 605-394-4131. An anonymous tip can also be submitted by texting the letters RCPD and the information to 847411. A stunningly modern 204,000-square-foot facility rising against the skyline of west Rapid City will open its doors to serve the medical needs of the Indigenous community on Monday. Oyate Health Center, under the administration of the Great Plains Tribal Leaders' Health Board, is finally complete after two-and-a-half years of steady construction. In 2019, the Oglala Sioux, Cheyenne River Sioux, and Rosebud Sioux Tribes reclaimed the right to provide health care services in Rapid City back from the Indian Health Service. Officials say the massive complex stands as a reminder of tribal sovereignty. "What Oyate Health Center symbolizes is a new era of tribally managed health care, and it's reflective of tribes embracing sovereignty and taking ownership of future health care," said Jerilyn Church, president/CEO, Great Plains Tribal Leaders' Health Board. "We pay homage to our ancestors that were a part of the old facility, and we look forward with hopefulness for generations to come." Centered on land with a tumultuous past, the modern silhouette stands in stark juxtaposition to the storied buildings that dot the massive and historic Sioux San Campus. The Rapid City Indian Boarding School opened its doors on the same land in 1898, closing for good in the mid-1930s as the tuberculosis crisis gained steam. The existing clinic buildings were constructed and opened in 1938, with the Bureau of Indian Affairs operating it as a tuberculosis hospital for Native Americans. Ownership transferred to the Indian Health Service in 1955 and IHS continued to operate the facility until the tribes took over in 2019. The Great Plains Tribal Leaders Health Board broke ground on the roughly $120 million project in August 2020. Rapid City-based Scull Construction partnered with Oklahoma-based Flintco to complete the project, moving 70,000-cubic-yards of earth in the process. Church said they were mostly on budget, just above the $116 million originally slated for the center, with the difference coming from the purchase of MRI machines that had originally been removed from the budget. On Friday, while walking through the clean corridors and past large windows, dozens of workers could be seen construction laborers putting in the last touches, and Oyate staff moving computers and supplies. Great Plains Tribal Leaders' Health Board Communications Director Brandon Ecoffey said they'll have a massive moving "party" on Saturday, moving equipment, setting up computers, and making sure everything is ready to go Monday morning. "We're still serving our community. I'm really proud of how our team has prepared for this move in that there really isn't going to be much of a break in services," Church said. "For the most part, it's going to be a fingers crossed pretty smooth transition into the new facility." Church described improvements since taking control in 2019, including the development of an operational system that's patient-focused, dramatically increasing the number of people they see and connecting them with the services they need. With all the new space, Oyate will expand primary care while continuing to partner with other organizations to increase access to specialty care. "So cardiology is one of them, ophthalmology is another, and what that will allow our relatives to do is not to have to wait hopefully too long for referrals out somewhere, they'll be able to get that specialty care here," Church said. Oyate will implement an integrated model of care that's centered on the patient themselves. Church said it's not like a typical hospital, where patients travel from room to room for blood work, nurses or check-in. Church said each patient will have their own team the same nurse, the same doctor, the same pharmacist and if they need transportation, even the same driver. The goal is to keep the same people around each individual, personalizing their care and bringing that care to them not the other way around, she said. When fully staffed, the campus will employ more than 600 people. Despite hiring difficulties across many workplaces, Church believes Oyate has a distinct advantage. "It's compassionate care. It's person-centered, not only for our relatives that we serve, but also recognizing that our staff serve some of the most vulnerable families -- families with some of the highest needs," she said. "So in order to be fully present and give 110%, we like to think that we're here for our staff too, and create an environment where they feel supported as well." In addition to serving the local Indigenous community, Oyate Health will be a regional hub for the upper Plains area. Ecoffey said 22% of their patients come from outside of Pennington County. Elements of local geography are reflected in the architecture and design of the environmentally conscious building, from neutral, natural colors to reflections of the granite peaks. A dazzling star, elevated nearly three-stories off the ground, caps the rotunda with an iconic symbol frequently reflected in Indigenous artwork. It's mirrored with a mosaic star on the floor and surrounded by a sleek, winding staircase. Indigenous culture is tied to the building's design and name. That culture also moves to how the facility operated right down to what staff members call their patients. "We refer to our users as 'relatives,' and we do that because we want to recognize that anyone that comes to us for care, we treat as if they're our own family," Church said. "When you're caring for your aunties or your uncles or your little nieces or nephews, there's a whole level and another level of endearment that we have for them and we hope that comes across and I think it does." The walls will soon be adorned with designs from Indigenous artists. Ecoffey said there are 60 different places identified for artwork, including four large murals. Oyate is to be a safe place, Church said, with relative-focused health care surrounded by a facility that reflects culture, familiarity and spirituality. "What we are embracing here is wellness, not only from the physical standpoint, but we support and recognize that our emotional well being our spiritual well being is such an important part of our overall wellness," she said. "When our relatives come into this building, they'll recognize that which is familiar to them and as a reminder that this is a safe place. This is a place where their whole being will be recognized and addressed and be a part of their wellness journey." The old buildings, which are owned and controlled by the Indian Health Service, are slated for demolition in the coming months. It's a contentious topic; Church said they've talked with IHS officials and are hopeful that individuals will get the chance to pay homage to those sites before they're removed. With the project checked off the to-do list, the Great Plains Tribal Leaders' Health Board will look forward for new ways to serve the community, Church said. "We're already recognizing that at the growth that we've been experiencing, it won't be long until we outgrow this facility," she said. "One of the things that we have on the horizon after everything is settled here and folks are moved in is renovating the LaCrosse [Street] location for more of our community-based services." While the Oyate Health Center opens Monday, an official grand opening is slated for 11 a.m. Feb. 25. Church said local tribal government officials and representatives from the federal government are planning to attend the Feb. 25 ceremony. One person is dead following a Friday afternoon police shooting at a convenience store in north Rapid City, where the suspect was reportedly holding an employee at knife point. According to Rapid City Police Chief Don Hedrick, multiple law enforcement agencies responded at about noon Friday, for a report of a man holding a clerk at knife point inside the Loaf 'N Jug, 1601 Haines Ave. Hedrick said the male suspect entered the store and held a knife to the clerk's throat and 911 was called. "At some point during this encounter, a good Samaritan engaged with the suspect," Hedrick said. Details of the engagement have not yet been released. Hedrick said the suspect was able to regain control of the convenience store employee, and brought her outside, still holding the knife prior to the first arrival of police. When the officer arrived, he fired his weapon and the male suspect went to the ground. A taser was also used, Hedrick said. Ambulance and medical personnel arrived and transported the man to the hospital. Late Friday, a spokesperson with the South Dakota Attorney General's Office said the suspect died at the hospital. Hedrick said he was told the store employee is okay. The officer involved is back at the police station, Hedrick said. The South Dakota Highway Patrol and the Pennington County Sheriff's Office took control of the scene and the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation will investigate the incident. Richmond police on Friday said they're looking for a man seen in the Museum District trying to peer into windows. Richmond police on Friday said they're looking for a man seen in the Museum District trying to peer into windows. Officers were called to 200 block of South Davis Avenue at about 8 a.m. on Wednesday, but couldn't find the suspect, police said. "This individual is suspected of similar activity in the general area late last year. In those incidents, the suspect was in the same general neighborhood in the late evenings," police said. The incidents happened in November and December. The statement from police said authorities "ask anyone who sees suspicious persons or activity to note the height of the suspect, what the person is wearing, and the direction of travel and call 911 to provide that information." From the Archives: Petersburg Civil War fort was sold and leveled in 1960s Fort Sedgwick or Fort Hell was one of the larger forts of the Union Army during the Civil War with a garrison of 800 men and 17 cannons. The fort occupied the most elevated natural position giving Union troops an unlimited view of their enemy and of Petersburg. The fort earned its nickname from the Confederate troops because of the constant, intense artillery fire from the cannons. The last attack launched from Fort Hell was April 2, 1865, when Union soldiers attacked Confederate lines with a blistering 30-minute bombardment. Despite the repeated bloody attacks by Union troops from Fort Hell, Confederate soldiers held their lines long enough to enable General Robert E. Lee and his men to escapeto Appomattox where Lee ended up surrendering on April 9, 1865. In the decades following the Civil War, the battleground was preserved and even housed a museum that attracted thousands of visitors. However, in 1966 it was announced that the land would be sold and the old trenches and the museum would be leveled. In 1966, David A. Lyon, a spokesperson for the Lyon family, which had owned the property for over 30 years, said the decision to sell the property was due to the fact that business had declined by about one-third. While the historic fortification withstood endless days of pounding from enemy cannons, its ultimate downfall was by the bulldozer. With many legislators facing primary elections in new districts this spring, the House of Delegates and Senate are not likely to waste much time in looming negotiations on how to bridge a $1 billion divide between tax cuts and new spending in the state budget. Their differences will be clear when the House Appropriations Committee and the Senate Finance and Appropriations Committee unveil their proposed budgets on Sunday. Each chamber will debate and adopt its version of the budget next week. House Republicans already have embraced a $1 billion package of tax cuts that Gov. Glenn Youngkin proposed in the $177.4 billion, two-year budget that he introduced on Dec. 15, but they face a tough sell to Senate Democrats who widened their narrow edge in the chamber to 22-18 with a special election victory last month in Virginia Beach. The package, if fully enacted, would lower the income tax rate that corporations pay below the top rate that 84% of Virginians pay, regardless of how much they earn. I dont know how much theyre going to be willing to give, but I dont think it will be that much at the top, Richmond political analyst Bob Holsworth said Friday. Holsworth suggested that Democrats could be willing to deal on tax cuts that help low- and middle-income Virginians, such as increasing the standard deduction on income, making more of the earned income tax credit refundable for working families and creating a refundable child tax credit. On the other hand, Holsworth added, Youngkin has one great advantage in that hes inherited a lot of money, in state revenues. A year ago, in his first assembly session as governor, Youngkin secured $4 billion in tax cuts, aided by record revenues from Virginias rapid economic rebound from the COVID-19 pandemic and unprecedented federal spending to help state and local governments in the emergency. This year, he predicts an additional $3.6 billion in revenues, including a $1.9 billion surplus in the last fiscal year, and proposes to spend $2.6 billion on state services, especially in education and behavioral health. The House has adopted all of Youngkins proposals for an additional $1 billion in tax cuts, but the Senate has rejected them as budget negotiations loom. The governor and his Republican allies have proposed to lower the corporate income tax rate from 6% to 5%, while reducing the top rate for individual income tax from 5.75% to 5.5%. He wants to increase the standard deduction to twice what it was when he took office, remove the age limit for veterans to exempt up to $40,000 of military retirement income from taxation, create a new tax credit for small businesses, and expand existing business tax breaks. In a recent appearance at the Weinstein JCC, Youngkin said Virginians are overtaxed. We have ample resources in order to cut taxes and invest in our top priorities and we need to get this done for Virginians, he said. However, Senate Finance Co-Chair Janet Howell, D-Fairfax, said Friday, At this point, I dont see him getting any of the tax cuts. Were pretty determined that he wont. House Appropriations Chair Barry Knight, R-Virginia Beach, said some tax cuts benefit poorer Virginians more than rich ones. Raising the standard deduction helps poor people more than anything else, he said Friday. Republicans and Democrats share priorities for boosting spending on public education, health and human services. In the Senate, Democrats are interested in turning the governors proposal of almost $200 million in bonuses for teachers and state employees into additional pay raises or a combination of the two. I think youll see more money for those salaries, said Sen. Chap Petersen, D-Fairfax City, chair of the finance subcommittee on general government, who is concerned about a 21% vacancy rate in state jobs and lower labor participation across the state after the pandemic. Knight said House Republicans also are interested in different ways to hire and retain state employees and teachers. We all agree we need to add money to our employees. Its just the mechanics of how we get it done. Youngkin has said tackling the states mental health crisis is a major priority, and his budget includes a $230 million boost to state spending on Virginias long underfunded public behavioral system. Democrats say Youngkins increase, while welcome, does not go far enough. State Sen. Creigh Deeds, D-Bath, chair of the General Assemblys Behavioral Health Commission, has an amendment calling for an additional $162 million to try to fill the nearly 2,800 vacant posts at the states community services boards, or CSBs, the local or regional agencies that manage treatment and programs for people with mental illness as well as intellectual and developmental disabilities. The money is to fund bonuses to help retain and recruit CSB staff. Deeds also proposes $38.7 million in additional state funds to raise provider rates for a wide range of services for people with mental health problems through Medicaid, the state-federal program for the elderly, disabled and poor. The federal government would match those funds with $76.7 million to pay for those services. Other Democratic senators have proposed $127 million in additional state funding to boost rates for Medicaid services to people with developmental disabilities and serve 2,350 people on the state waiting list for nonmedical services to people with those disabilities. The federal government would provide $132 million to match the new state funds for those services and Medicaid waiver slots. Democrats hope for help from Republicans to push back on the governors attempts to intrude on assembly authority from control over use of transportation funds to support improvements for economic development projects, to ensuring that critical legislative agencies have space in the newly renovated Old City Hill next to Capitol Square. The legislature has its prerogatives and we hold them dear, said Howell, who expects the Senate budget to ensure space for the divisions of Capitol Police and Legislative Automated Systems in the national historic landmark, eyed by the Youngkin administration for executive agencies instead. Knight said House Republicans generally support Youngkin and his initiatives, but he added, We are the legislative branch. We will continue to control the checks and balances on the money ... no matter what the governors party. The governors budget would divert $300 million in state transportation money including funds that pay for highway construction and maintenance, rail and public transit to the Transportation Partnership Opportunity Fund. The proposal aims for quicker decisions on transportation upgrades to attract major economic development projects, including a new FBI headquarters sought in Springfield, but it still makes legislators from traffic-clogged Northern Virginia uneasy about the diversion of money from other state-ranked priorities. I dont want to have the governor moving around hundreds of millions of dollars in needed transportation funds, said Sen. Adam Ebbin, D-Alexandria. He cast the sole no vote in Senate Finance on Senate Bill 1106, proposed by Sen. Steve Newman, R-Lynchburg, one of two submitted on behalf of the Youngkin administration for the transportation initiative. Both the House and Senate have amended the administration bills to eliminate requirements for a specified amount of funding to be shifted into the fund, while restoring requirements that the governor report to the money committees on any grants he makes. However, Newman, one of the governors strongest legislative allies, has balked at a House proposal to require advance approval by the assemblys economic project review commission of any grant of more than $35 million. On higher education, Knight predicted that the House will push to use state aid to persuade colleges and universities to moderate tuition increases. At the K-12 level, both sides want to add money, but Youngkin will start about $200 million in the hole after the Department of Education acknowledged that it had overstated the amount of basic aid that each local school division could expect in the state budget adopted in June. The error, first reported by the Richmond Times-Dispatch, was not part of the budget itself, but many localities relied on the inaccurate estimates in preparing their budgets for the current fiscal year and the one that will begin July 1. The lower estimates pose a particular challenge for small and rural school divisions that rely more on state aid for education. It doesnt change the budget, but it puts pressure on Republicans, Holsworth said. These are jurisdictions they represent. Youngkin has urged the assembly to cover the gap with additional sales tax revenues and money he included in the proposed budget. Rest assured, the error from the Department of Education will not result in any budgetary cuts to our school divisions, House Majority Leader Terry Kilgore, R-Scott, said Thursday. Sean Sublette Meteorologist Follow Sean Sublette Close Get email notifications on {{subject}} daily! Your notification has been saved. There was a problem saving your notification. {{description}} Email notifications are only sent once a day, and only if there are new matching items. Save Manage followed notifications Close Followed notifications Please log in to use this feature Log In Don't have an account? Sign Up Today Virginia just observed one of its 10 warmest Januarys on record and, as the planet continues to warm, the impacts of the changing climate will continue to mount. Last week, a new survey was released to gauge voters attitudes about climate change policies in the U.S. The survey did not examine how voters felt about the science of the topic, but examined policies related to climate change and renewable energy. At least 75% of registered voters support federal funding for renewable energy sources, tax rebates for people purchasing energy-efficient vehicles or solar panels and tax incentives for people and businesses to buy appliances that do not run on oil or natural gas. Jointly produced by the George Mason University Center for Climate Change Communication and the Yale Program on Climate Change Communication, the December survey interviewed 1,085 adults, 86% of whom are registered to vote. Within those surveyed, the same number of registered voters identified as conservative Republicans or liberal Democrats: 27%. More specifically to the Virginia conversation, 78% of registered voters support federal funding to make homes in low-income communities more efficient. A similar state-run program is in place as part of Virginias involvement in the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI). Gov. Glenn Youngkin has been working to remove Virginia from RGGI since taking office last year. Coal, the most polluting of the fossil fuels, is already declining in use in Virginia, and two of Dominion Energys coal units in Chesterfield County are scheduled for decommissioning at the end of May. The survey finds widespread support for helping people impacted by the decline of coal: 78% support creating a jobs program to hire unemployed coal workers to close down old mines. Transportation and electricity generation are the largest contributors to the carbon emissions that are warming the planet, but agricultural practices contribute about 10%. However, there is strong support for helping farmers in this area, as 84% of voters support federal funding to help farmers improve methods to protect and restore soils. A Times-Dispatch subscription supports local journalism Unlimited access to our digital content including videos, podcasts and the popular e-edition starts at $1 for 26 weeks. Regarding infrastructure, 79% support generating renewable energy on public lands in the U.S. The numbers are not quite as strong regarding electric vehicles, as only 59% support building EV charging stations. George Mason and Yale have been regularly surveying on these topics since 2010. Edward Maibach is the director of the GMU Center and has noticed some trends. In general, over the past decade, Republicans have become less supportive of the idea that the federal government should prioritize the development of renewable energy. That said, the majority of Republicans do support a variety of federal policies to make clean energy and clean transportation more available and affordable. Not surprisingly, there are some additional large gaps in responses across the political spectrum, but Maibach sees some areas of agreement. There is strong support among both groups for increasing federal research and development spending for solar and wind power, and for helping home and owners of other buildings make their buildings more energy efficient, and especially for helping farmers adopt more climate-friendly farming practices. Finally, with education remaining a hot topic in the state this year, three out of four registered voters say that schools should teach children about the causes, impacts and potential solutions of planetary warming. The full survey results and methods are available from the George Mason Center for Climate Change Communication at climatechangecommunication.org. From the Archives: Photos of the State Fair of Virginia Correction 49 Winchester's Noah Patrick, not Justin Louthian, is one of the band's original members. That information was incorrect in Saturday's cutNscratch column. Castlewood, in far Southwest Virginias Russell County, has about 2,000 people. There is one stop light and a really good Mexican restaurant, according to Isaac Gibson. And thats about it, Gibson said. Oh, and Castlewood is also home to 49 Winchester, in which Gibson sings lead, plays guitar and writes songs that have the band flirting hard with nationwide recognition. Gibson, 28, and his bandmates hit 5 Points Music Sanctuary on Saturday. The 225-capacity show sold out in four days, due to a combination of factors including the bands release on New West Records, Fortune Favors The Bold, and its 2021 win in the FloydFest On the Rise contest. 49 Winchester, named for the address where Gibson grew up, has been touring hard on its own and opening for such Americana/rock acts as Turnpike Troubadours and Whiskey Myers. Its been quite a run so far, but its no overnight story for an act that Rolling Stone last year labeled Countrys buzziest of buzz bands. The guys that Gibson calls the core four Chase Chafin (bass), Noah Patrick (pedal steel guitar), Brandon Bus Shelton (lead guitar) and Gibson went to high school together. Chafin and Gibson grew up as next-door neighbors. They formed 49 out of high school about nine years ago. (Keyboardist Tim Hall, from Chilhowie, and drummer Justin Louthian, of Johnson City, Tennessee, have joined since.) We didnt know where to play, what to do or anything, Gibson said in a phone call last month. We just knew that we liked music and we knew that we wanted to pursue it as hard as we could. We worked our tail off for 8 or 9 years to get to the point where we are now. Its felt like a grind at times, but its a grind weve always loved, always embraced, and were still doing it today. The bands repertoire ran from Pokey LaFarge to the Allman Brothers Band and points in between. Meanwhile, Gibson was learning to write songs. He said his influences include John Prine, Townes Van Zandt, Jason Isbell and Tyler Childers. In particular, Childers made a big impression. Hes able to remain really uniquely Appalachian in the way that he sings, the way he delivers his lines, the way that he speaks, the way that he is, the way that he carries himself, Gibson said. Hes a guy thats never wavered from that and I really appreciate it. The band hit the regional nightspot circuit hard, including three dates at Martins Downtown. Venue co-owner Jason Martin, in a text exchange, said the bands last stop there was April 2021, when 49 drew 100, which is kinda skewed since we werent really out of the pandemic at that time. He added: I thought they were a great band at that time with tons of potential but didnt necessarily see them shooting up this fast. Good for them though! 49 Winchester took inspiration from two other Southwest Virginia bands, Folk Soul Revival and Virginia Ground. But seeing an East Tennessee act, This Mountain, play in a venue over the state line gave the band a new perspective. The music was hard to put a finger on, Gibson said. They were up there doing their own thing, living in that moment on stage, and that was a big inspiration for us in the early days, he said. Gibson and his mates strive to avoid a single-genre trap. They started out more country, then turned toward rock, with the lines blurring as the years passed. I think that ability to reach both markets, both types of listener, has been a big strength for us over the years, Gibson said. People that love rock n roll are gonna love 49. People that love country are gonna love 49. I think that being a band thats doing something a little bit different and a little bit in a gray area, kind of a borderland, I think thats been a big advantage for us, as opposed to a hindrance. Alt-country soul is the moniker found on the bands social media channels. The sound drew New West Records, home to Nikki Lane, All Them Witches, Ben Folds and Rodney Crowell, among others. The band signed its contract with the label at FloydFest in 2021, the same year it won the audience-voted On the Rise competition. Everything for the last couple of years has just felt like the cherry on top, Gibson said. All we ever wanted to do was put ourselves in a position to pursue this full-time with all of our heart, and really do it in the way that we know we can. All the growth thats been taking place, the big rapid boom thats happening right now that were right in the middle of Spotify listens going through the roof, and everythings going up it took a lot of work to get here, and I think thats something that people are maybe not as aware of as we are, of course, because they havent been behind the scenes and seen if for as long. But were just really fortunate to see it finally start paying dividends and impact our life in a big way. That impact is not likely to include a move away from Castlewood. Were all still relatively close to home. Me and my girlfriend live about 5-6 miles from where I grew up, and probably will for the duration of the future, he said. Everybody wants me to move to Nashville, and I dont think Im gonna do that. I like it here. Peace and quiet. I love the city. I love being there. I love the connections I have there. But a Zoom call takes care of a lot of it. Michael Franti returning to the Coves Union Hall venue Coves Amphitheater at SML has announced five of the acts that will be playing there this year, and tickets are on sale for all of them. Michael Franti & Spearhead is scheduled to return for a July 7 show. Advance tickets are $87.50 and $57.50 via seetickets.us/070723. Other acts scheduled to date are: The Wailin Jennys on April 23, with tickets at $145 (VIP), $60 and $47.50 via seetickets.us/042323. The Happy Together Tour, with The Turtles, Little Anthony, Gary Puckett & The Union Gap, and more is June 22. Tickets are $77.50 and $52.50 at seetickets.us/062223. Legacy Motown Revue, on June 24, features $115 and $30 tickets at seetickets.us/062423. Abba tribute act ARRIVAL From Sweden plays on Aug. 20. Tickets are $62.50 and $42.50 via seetickets.us/082023. Rooster Walk announces artists at large The Rooster Walk Music & Arts Festival, set for May 25-28, has announced its lineup of artists at large, the performers who will sit in and add value across the festival. And frankly, its got the makings of a supergroup, with a cool mix of local players who fit right in with the national-level ones. Two Roanoke performers harmonica man and percussionist Robby Carden and bassist Jake Dempsey, along with Bassett native Josh Shilling (vocals, keys) and Fincastle native Erin Lunsford (vocals, multiple instruments) will be on hand. Saxophonist Ron Holloway, drummer Jeff Sipe and guitarist Wallace Mullinax round out the intriguing lineup. Will be interesting to see where and how these folks pop up. Leer en espanol The visible absence of gang structures in many Salvadoran communities is big news for every Salvadoran, particularly those who have lived under siege by these criminal groups for decades. The dismantling of gangs has enormous life-changing potential for the country. During all these years, gangs evolved from marginalized youth groups to organized criminal structures that competed with the state for control of a significant part of the country and, more importantly, the population. This is a reflection of how the political elite we inherited from the Civil War failed the citizens. Gangs were a byproduct of a broken, traumatized society abandoned by a ruling class that saw them for years as a political problem, only to instrumentalize them and turn them into strategic allies in their quests to retain power. The same goes for the current government, which turned to a clandestine dialogue with gang leaders to reduce homicides in its first three years. El Faro confirmed that thousands of gang members are in disarray, their structures severely weakened and their presence minimal or null in territories they controlled for decades. But in order for that to happen, weve had to give up our imperfect democracy, built after 100,000 deaths and thousands of disappearances during the armed conflict. El Salvador has turned all the power over to one person, President Nayib Bukele. He already manipulates the whole system and is not bound by accountability. If a democracy consists of people delegating power to a government and holding it responsible for its actions, then under this authoritarian regime it is the ruler who decides what to do and what to tell us. For the majority of Salvadorans, democracy lost its meaning after failing to solve the countrys most urgent problems among them, chiefly, the insecurity and terror caused by the gangs. For decades, democracy was an abstract concept if even that for the working class of El Salvador. Gangs, on the other hand, were a daily, crushing presence. On April 4, 2016, the National Civil Police and Armed Forces carried out a joint operation outside the Quezaltepeque Prison in La Libertad to erase graffiti from the Mara Salvatrucha in Colonia El Rosal. Photo: Victor Pena/El Faro Scenes witnessed in recent weeks by El Faro reporters speak to a new, unknown life for thousands who can cross streets, talk to neighbors, and move on with their lives without gang members subduing them with a gun to their heads. This is, undoubtedly, an extraordinary change. But its worth remembering that gangs werent born out of thin air. They were the crudest, most violent expression of a broken, corrupt society, one that gives limited opportunities to most of the population. It is a society marked by poverty, inequality, the impossibility of social mobility, lack of access to fundamental services like health, education, adequate housing, and jobs, and the nonconservation of precarious natural resources. Those conditions havent changed. The current government has no plan for such structural changes capable of shedding the conditions under which these ghoulish expressions started. The fertile soil that allowed gangs to spawn and take root in the underprivileged barrios of most of El Salvador are still there. Repression is not a sustainable solution. The Bukele regime went from negotiating with organized crime to repressing it only when the pact fell apart. The Army and the Police swept through communities under a state of exception that allowed them to act like prosecutors and judges and arrest without a warrant any citizen they considered a suspect. Human rights violations have been massive. Thousands of innocents languish in overcrowded prisons. Scores have died in pre-trial detention. Meanwhile, the president boasts of a giant, newly-built jail by a handpicked building company that was given a contract with no contest. We Salvadorans gave up the rights of presumed innocence, legal counsel, fair trial, and to institutions that punish government abuses. We gave up the rule of law that comes with abiding by laws and the Constitution. We gave up freedom of expression, freedom to dissent, separation of powers, transparency in public finances, and mechanisms to fight corruption. We gave up alternation of power. Were back to corrupt chieftainship. The visible absence of gang structures, for the first time in a long while, is a fundamental change in the life of thousands of Salvadorans. But the price weve had to pay for it is sky-high. The cure could be as harmful as the disease. Three teenage males were shot in a Friday night incident on 22nd Street Northwest in Roanoke, police said Saturday. The citys latest nonfatal shootings started with reports to 911 of a person with a gunshot wound in the 1000 block of 22nd Street in the Melrose-Rugby neighborhood. While officers were en route, the 911 center received another call about at least one other gunshot wound victim en route to the hospital in a private vehicle. On 22nd Street, officers found a teenage male inside a residence with what appeared to be a non-life threatening gunshot wound, according to a police news release. The teen was transported to Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital for treatment. Officers who responded to Roanoke Memorial found two additional teenage males, both with what appeared to be non-life threatening gunshot wounds, in the back of a private vehicle. They were taken into the hospital for treatment. Police said the trio appeared to have been injured at the residence on 22nd Street, where officers found evidence of a shooting. No arrests have been made, police said. The 1000 block of 22nd Street Northwest is in a residential neighborhood just southwest of Kennedy Park, which the city is renaming this spring in honor of the late neighborhood activist Estelle McCadden. Roanoke is in the midst of a multi-year surge of gun violence. In 2022, the city had at least 65 incidents in which a person was shot with a firearm, including 17 homicides. Elected officials and appointed members of the Roanoke Gun Violence Prevention Commission are particularly focused on strategies to reduce the number of young people who have been shot. Anyone with information about the shootings is asked to call 540-344-8500 or text 274637, beginning the text with RoanokePD. Calls and texts with tips can remain anonymous. Register for more free articles. Sign up for our newsletter to keep reading. Be the first to know Get local news delivered to your inbox! Sign up! Already a Subscriber? Already a Subscriber? Sign in Terms of Service Privacy Policy You have permission to edit this collection. Edit Close Loughborough University researchers will assess how coastal litter from the ocean has changed over the past half-century in a unique project that brings together local heritage, drones, and mobile phone apps. Dr. Tom Stanton, of the Department of Geography and Environment, and Melissa Schiele, a Ph.D. student in the School of Mechanical, Electrical, and Manufacturing Engineering, have received an innovation grant from the UK marine conservation charity Sea-Changers to explore how litter has changed in the Isle of Skye. The pair are collaborating with local organisations and residents on the Scottish island to explore how the distribution and characteristics of litter on beaches have changed over the last 50 years, as well as investigate the presence of microplastic pollution and textile fibres in coastal waters. The one-year-long study involves gathering oral histories and conducting community beach litter surveys using mobile phone litter-logging apps. Melissa will also take to the air with her drones to bolster and enhance the findings of the ground survey and engage local people with UAV technologies. These important steps will contribute to an innovative new environmental surveying toolkit that will empower residents in Skye and beyond to monitor their beaches. Melissa, who also conducts a variety of drone-based research in the Maldives, commented: "I'm thrilled at the opportunity to work with Dr. Tom Stanton to trial this exciting 'hands-on' multidisciplinary approach to data gathering and citizen science. "I'll be extending the techniques I'm working on in the Maldives to the shores and people of Skye, to see if locally-led drone use can fit into the long-term monitoring strategies on the island." The '50 years of litter on Skye' project looks to build on the work of the late organic polymer chemist Professor Gerald Scott. Professor Scott was one of the first people to identify the ocean as a prominent source of litter on the beaches following his observations in the Isle of Skye in 1972. Dr. Stanton commented: "It is important to reflect on Scott's work because in his publication he foreshadows the magnitude of pollution from litter we now find ourselves faced with. "Scott's publication was also hopeful of technological solutions to the problem of plastic pollution which, unfortunately, still have not materialised. "We want to learn from the local knowledge on the island, both the dynamics of pollution in the present, but also in living memory, dating back to Scott's visit to the island if possible. "Local communities have regionally specific knowledge that can provide unique insights into the environments that geographical research studies. "This is something we will be keen to tap into, and it provides the project with a unique mixed methodology that will consider both the beach pollution on the island and what it means to the island's community. "I am over the moon that Sea-Changers has awarded us funding for this project." Provided by Loughborough University Seguin, TX (78155) Today Overcast. A stray afternoon thunderstorm is possible. High 84F. Winds S at 10 to 15 mph.. Tonight Cloudy. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low near 70F. Winds SSE at 10 to 15 mph. If you are currently a print subscriber but don't have an online account, select this option. You will need to use your 7 digit subscriber account number (with leading zeros) and your last name (in UPPERCASE). CEOCEO161 ChatGPT2029 0.08% 25 0.46% 6 ChatGPT 64.24 48 27%2024 ChatGPT 0.71% GDP 1.4 9 LV5000 GDP5% 16% 415 KeeTa 0.38% 0.26%15% OTT TVB 460460 mReferral_Column - mReferral_Column - It took Debbie Bernstein LaCroix three months to get one to sing. Over a period of 90 days in 2022, the Expansion Center co-owner would make circles around the outer rims of the metal singing bowls shed bought as a birthday gift and she wouldnt hear what she wanted to hear. The sound is a kind of melodious whir. One which emanates outward, like ripples in a pond a small pebbles been dropped into. These days, theres an audience present when Bernstein LaCroix makes waves with the collection of bowls she has accrued since getting more comfortable with an instrument whose history can be measured in millennia. The events Bernstein LaCroix hosts at the Expansion Center, a downtown Sioux City space with wood floors fit for a temple, are called "Sound Baths and her intent is to immerse people in calming and relaxing vibrations. "I love how it helps other people," Bernstein LaCroix said. "When you experience it, some of the people who have come to see me have said they feel like theyre levitating or going on a journey, almost like a lucid dream." When the Expansion Center opened at 1119 Fourth St. in November 2021, Bernstein LaCroix said she and co-owner Stacy Anderson brought in a few metal bowls for inventory. "Ive read lots of books on it and Im just fascinated with frequency and vibration. Because everything is energy. I get kind of nerdy and love the science of things," Anderson said. Anderson and Bernstein La Croix bill the Expansion Center as a "holistic center with retail, services and workshops that support mind, body and spirit." Singing bowls Debbie Bernstein LaCroix sets up a set of sound bowls at the Expansion Center in downtown Sioux City. Bernstein LaCroix has been hosting "soun The set-up Bernstein LaCroix has positioned around a rug on the Expansion Center floor features not just bowls, a majority of which are made of crystal, but gongs, chimes, mallets, tuning forks and shakers. Shes even added a 21-inch, 25-pound metal bowl from Kathmandu, Nepal thats possible to stand in. When struck, it emits a deep bassy tone. All in service of helping visitors try and reach a meditative state. "Its one of those (things) that I never meant to deep dive into but I loved it," Bernstein LaCroix said. One Sound Bath attendee, Erin Binneboese, said the medley of instruments work to create "earthy sounds." "The sublime resonance and aromas allow the opening to journey into meditation and experience a therapeutic, healing, and invaluable feeling of inwardness for me," Binneboese wrote. Singing bowls Debbie Bernstein LaCroix has been hosting "sound baths" at the center where she plays bowls, gongs and other instruments for groups of people The usage of singing bowls for the purpose of helping people relax or enter into reflective states is nothing new, according to National Music Museum Education Curator Deborah Reeves. "In Tibetan Buddhism, musical instruments play a big role in aiding meditation," Reeves said. "Theyre seen as a tool to set up this deep meditation." Reeves said singing bowls are most closely associated with Tibet and tend to be made out of non-ferrous metals such as bronze. The instruments actually qualify as resting bells because of the way in which theyre played. "The sound is created because of friction. Its usually some type of baton or stick or mallet that tends to be covered in leather that you rub around the outside of the rim (the open mouth) and that creates a traveling wave that is carried around the circumference," Reeves said. That sound wave then translates to an audible pitch. Singing bowls Debbie Bernstein LaCroix plays music on a set of sound bowls. While singing bowls are commonly linked to meditation, theyre far from the only instruments used for such purposes. Reeves said there are oboe-like instruments played with circular breathing (breathing in through the nose while simultaneously pushing air out through the mouth), finger cymbals, trumpets, conch shells and a myriad of drums. "All being used to facilitate meditation," Reeves said. Singing bowls Debbie Bernstein LaCroix has found "sound baths" create a sense of calmness and relaxation. Though Bernstein LaCroix took percussion, piano, guitar and voice lessons as she was growing up, she never thought of herself as a musician. "My band instructor, in fifth grade, told my mom I had no hand-eye coordination and probably shouldnt play drums," Bernstein LaCroix said. Bernstein LaCroix's still taking classes now but the focus has shifted. In 2022, she traveled to Cedar Rapids for a three-day "intensive sound-healing class." The course's instructor, Natalie Brown, teaches orchestra and also runs Sounds Heal Studio which she uses as a space to promote what she refers to as sound healing. "As a lifelong musician and longtime music educator, music and sound have always been a passion of mine. By journeying into sound and holistic healing I have discovered a rich and powerful tool to help others and I hope to share this knowledge, empower individuals and the community," Brown writes on her website. For Bernstein LaCroix, the collection of musical tools is only growing. She said she wants to get several "practitioner bowls" which allow for freer motion. Were someone to come for a private meditation session featuring the singing bowls, Bernstein LaCroix would be able to move around them. The reactions she gets in the sessions, private or public, are part of what she said has kept her investing so much time, energy and money. "I wanted the instruments because I thought that they were cool but when you can utilize it for good, that makes it even better." ONAWA, Iowa -- A jury already had found Jayme Powell guilty of trying to kill his friend and another woman. Before he was sentenced to 54 years in prison Friday, Powell, his mother and one of the victims traded accusations of death threats in the courtroom, disrupting the hearing and prompting the judge to threaten to remove him and others from the room. Richard Polak urged District Judge Roger Sailer to sentence Powell to the minimum of 25 years in prison. Giving his victim impact statement, Polak told Powell he didn't want to see him die in prison, but just serve long enough so that he'd be unable to attend the funeral of his mother and any other loved ones who might die while he's incarcerated. "I want you to feel the pain of having someone you love die," Polak said. Powell shot back, telling Sailer that Polak was threatening his mother, who was present in the courtroom and began to speak out when Sailer halted everyone. Visibly perturbed with everyone's behavior, Sailer told Powell to remain quiet or he'd have him removed from the room. He also warned Powell's mother and Polak, telling him to restrict his comments to how the crime affected him rather than addressing Powell directly. Longtime friends, Polak told Powell he had never judged him and stuck by him during past criminal convictions and prison sentences. But he had no right to try to kill him by running over him while he rode his motorcycle on Interstate 29 near Whiting, Iowa, on Dec. 27 after the two had been in a fight earlier that night in Sioux City. "As a brother, you should have fought me in the yard," Polak said. "I still have empathy for you. Good luck, brother. You're going to need it." A Monona County jury found Powell, 40, guilty in October of two counts each of attempted murder, intimidation with a dangerous weapon and operating a motor vehicle without owner's consent and one count of felon in possession of a firearm. While driving south near mile marker 118 in his Dodge pickup truck, Powell fired shots at Polak's girlfriend, Jaimi Bucholz, who was driving with a baby in her vehicle, and then ran over Polak, who was driving a motorcycle. Powell's pickup left the road and was immobilized after coming to rest on top of the motorcycle. He left the scene and stole a pickup from a nearby farm, crashing through a livestock fence and into a tree before abandoning it. He stole a second pickup from another residence and was later found driving it in Sioux City and arrested. Polak suffered numerous injuries and walked with the assistance of a cane Friday. Powell faced up to 99 years in prison, and Sailer chose to run the 25-year prison sentences for the two attempted murder consecutively, or back to back, along with the two theft-related charges, each carrying two-year prison sentences, for the 54-year total. The remaining sentences will be served concurrently, or at the same time. Powell must serve 35 years before he's eligible for parole. Speaking before his sentence was announced, Powell said he wished he had done things differently that night. "I never meant for any of this to happen. I loved you like a brother," he said to Polak, who shortly after was removed by sheriff's deputies from the courtroom. Despite the kind words, some bad feelings remained, and Powell again told Sailer that Polak was threatening his mother's life. Sailer would hear none of it. "This is not a conversation," he said bluntly, cutting off Powell. At the conclusion of the hearing, before Powell was led from the courtroom, he and his mother told each other they loved one another. "Be careful out there," Powell said. "He's probably going to try to shoot you." Polak, 42, of Omaha, has pleaded not guilty to extortion in a related case. According to court documents, he emailed Monona County Attorney Ian McConeghey in August, telling him he and Bucholz would not testify at depositions prior to Powell's trial unless his criminal charges in an unrelated Woodbury County case would "disappear." Powell did not show up for his deposition. Polak is charged with arson, burglary, theft and assault in Woodbury County for a Dec. 16 incident in which he's charged with breaking into a Sioux City home with another person, binding a man and woman who lived there and dousing them with gasoline before ransacking the house. He's scheduled to stand trial in January. SIOUX CITY -- A Sioux City man suspected in the armed robbery of at least six Siouxland banks and businesses now faces federal prosecution. A complaint unsealed Friday in U.S. District Court in Sioux City charges Kevon Spratt of possession of a firearm by a prohibited person. An indictment has not yet been filed. Spratt, 29, is scheduled to appear in court Monday. The robberies occurred during a one-month period in the fall and stretched over three states. In each instance, surveillance cameras captured images of a man believed to be Spratt. They include: -- Oct. 16, Food and Fuel, Dakota City, Nebraska, an incident in which Spratt is accused of threatening a store clerk with a handgun and taking approximately $850 in cash from the cash register. -- Oct. 21, BankFirst, Onawa, Iowa, in which Spratt is suspected of entering the bank with an AR-15-type rifle, pointing it at the tellers and demanding money. The robber was handed $11,510 in cash, but dropped $990 in the bank lobby when trying to put the gun back in his pants. -- Oct. 22, Bluff's Stop, Sergeant Bluff, where a clerk was threatened with a handgun while $482 in cash was taken from the cash register. -- Oct. 24, Check Into Cash, Sioux City, where two employees were threatened at gunpoint before handing over approximately $4,855 in cash. -- Nov. 11, Jefferson Conoco, Jefferson, South Dakota, a robbery in which the robber put a handgun to the clerk's back and forced her to open the cash register. The man fled before taking any money. -- Nov. 14, Pioneer Bank, Salix, Iowa, where a bank employee was assaulted outside the bank by a man who was displaying a handgun. The man entered the bank and searched through the teller drawers and fled before taking any cash. Spratt also is suspected of robbing two individuals at gunpoint on Sept. 30 in Sioux City. Spratt was arrested Nov. 14, after the attempted robbery in Salix, when he was spotted driving on Interstate 29 and stopped by police. A handgun matching the appearance of a gun used in the robberies was found in the car, which also closely resembled a car captured on surveillance videos approaching and leaving the scene of the other robberies. FBI agents reviewing Spratt's social media accounts found photos of him dressed in clothing matching clothes the robber was seen wearing in surveillance videos, holding a handgun consistent with the one seized from his car and holding a stack of cash 8 inches thick. Tattoos in the photos also matched tattoos seen on the suspect in the surveillance videos. Clothing items matching those seen in the videos were seized during a search of Spratt's Sioux City home. Spratt was charged in Woodbury County District Court in November and pleaded not guilty of three counts each of first-degree robbery, assault while participating in a felony, felon in possession of a firearm and aggravated assault and one count each of trafficking in stolen weapons and commission of a specified unlawful activity. Those charges were dropped Thursday, when a judge granted Woodbury County Attorney James Loomis' motion to dismiss the case because of Spratt's pending federal prosecution. A search of online court records found no charges filed against Spratt related to the Nebraska and South Dakota robberies. SIOUX CITY -- The Sioux City Council, during an operating budget session Saturday, discussed the possibility of adding four additional full-time police officer positions in FY 2024. The Sioux City Police Department, which is allocated 127 full-time officers, is currently experiencing "burnouts really heavy," according to Police Chief Rex Mueller. He said the department is dealing with half a dozen injuries, as well as three retirements next week. "We have people that are considering leaving the department just because of the workload that we place on them, the increased expectations," Mueller said. The City Council began its review of the proposed $193.5 million FY 2024 operating budget at the special meeting in the Council Chambers. The operating budget is used to fund a wide variety of services. Public safety, which includes the police and fire departments, accounts for the bulk of the operating expenditures, or 31%. The next largest segments are 18% for utilities and 16% for public works. City Finance Director Teresa Fitch told the council that four additional police officers would cost homeowners $5.85 per $100,000 of value. Mueller said the staffing challenges the department is dealing with are due to both expected and unexpected losses, as well as a difficult recruiting climate. "When things like Memphis are happening, that really makes people question coming into this profession, so we need to be very aggressive at bringing the best people to come here and work in Sioux City," Mueller said, referencing the fatal beating of Tyre Nichols. Five Memphis, Tennessee, police officers have been charged with second-degree murder in the death of Nichols, a 29-year-old Black man. Mueller said the department will lose a quarter to a third of its staff in the next several years. He said those who came on during a "huge hiring blitz" in the early 90s have been working for 26 to 29 years and are looking to get out of the profession. Mueller noted that there's a delay in hiring due to pre-academy, academy and field training. He said new officers cant function solo for nearly a year. "We need to replace those people and we want to have a workforce ready to go so that our citizens don't feel that transition that the services are maintained. But, we understand the need to be fiscally responsible," he said. Councilman Matthew O'Kane acknowledged that the department is "bare bones, right now" and said he has heard members of the public say the city needs more officers on the streets. "If somebody calls and says, 'You know, I had this stolen,' and it doesn't add up to that $1,000 or whatever that limit it, they still deserve the right to meet with a police officer. There still needs to be an investigation, in my opinion," O'Kane said. "I don't think that there's any small call in our community. I think we need to make sure that people feel safe." The council is expected to further discuss the matter at a budget wrap-up session slated for Feb. 15. The city's total proposed budget for FY 2024 is $303.8 million. The operating budget comprises $193.5 million, the first year of the Capital Improvement Program (CIP) $66.1 million and debt service $44.1 million of the total proposed budget. "This year, the budget did decrease in totality by $22 million. A majority of that is the CIP budget. Again, we talked about that being funded by the ARPA (American Rescue Plan Act)," Fitch told the council. "And, the debt service has reduced significantly, as has the operating budget." The City of Sioux City's budgeting process is being impacted by a state error that created a shortfall in expected revenue for Iowa's cities, counties, school districts and community colleges. If the Iowa Legislature passes a bill to correct the error, the City of Sioux City would see its tax levy increase from $15.41 to $15.76, which is about $655,000, according to Fitch. "If we kept it a flat levy based on the rollback amount, we actually would see a larger impact on our residents and less of an impact on our business owners," Fitch said. "You can see that there'll be a $36 per $100,000 evaluation for homeowners and $88 for commercial owners. Now, with the levy changes and the rollback difference, we actually see a reduction in the levy impact or the impact on residential to $24 and an increase to commercial of $119 per $100,000 valuation." CHICAGO Emboldened anti-abortion activists are looking to the 2024 presidential election as an opportunity to solidify their influence over the Republican Party. Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America, the most influential group in the anti-abortion movement, is telling each potential GOP presidential hopeful that to win its backing or avoid being a target of its opposition they must support national restrictions on the procedure. Exceptions in cases of rape, incest or to save the life of the mother are acceptable, the activists say, but leaving the question for states to decide is not. It is a level of protection that goes to every single state. Thats the baseline of what were looking to do, said Frank Cannon, Susan B. Anthony's chief political strategist. Anything less than that will not be acceptable and will not be somebody that SBA can support. So, its that simple. That directive is creating an early litmus test for Republicans considering entering the first presidential election since the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade, the landmark decision that enshrined federal protections for abortion for roughly 50 years. While the hard-line stance could please anti-abortion activists who hold sway in GOP primaries, it could create problems for the party's eventual nominee in the general election. Voters protected abortion rights via ballot measures in six states in 2022, including Kansas, a state former President Donald Trump twice won by double-digit margins. AP VoteCast, a survey of the midterm electorate, showed the Supreme Court's decision was broadly unpopular. About 6 in 10 said they were angry or dissatisfied by it, and roughly the same percentage said they favor a law guaranteeing access to legal abortion nationwide. Supporters of abortion rights say the issue was a game changer that helped Democrats last year and that will motivate voters even more in 2024, after two years of seeing the effects of restrictions. Were in a nation where 18 states have no access to abortion, and that number is not going down. Its going to go up as additional court cases get decided, said Jenny Lawson, vice president of organizing and engagement campaigns at Planned Parenthood Action Fund. She predicted people will see headlines over and over again about pregnant children forced to travel out of state for abortions or people unable to get proper miscarriage care because doctors are afraid of liability. Pressure from the anti-abortion movement has put Trump, who announced his third run for the presidency last year, in perhaps the most complicated position. He is arguably more responsible for the overturning of Roe than anyone else, having appointed three anti-abortion Supreme Court justices who backed last years ruling. But he has also made clear that he believes pushing any further will hurt Republicans, and he accused anti-abortion leaders of failing to do enough to help GOP candidates in the midterms. I just didnt see them fighting during this last election, fighting for victory, Trump said in an interview with David Brody, a longtime commentator for the Christian Broadcasting Network. Trump, who described himself as very pro-choice before entering politics, stressed that objecting to exceptions for rape, incest and the life of the mother makes it much harder to win elections. He has criticized evangelical leaders who have been slow to endorse his latest run, blasting decisions by pastors like Robert Jeffress to wait to assess the rest of the field as a sign of disloyalty. Cannon called the notion that opposing abortion hurt the GOP last year absolutely absurd, pointing to candidates like Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis a top potential GOP presidential candidate who easily won reelection. DeSantis signed into law last year a ban on abortion after 15 weeks of pregnancy. The Republican candidates who got clobbered, Cannon said, were those who tried to avoid the topic. What you have to do is argue for protections that the American people see as reasonable versus the extremism of no exceptions, even late-term abortion," Cannon said. "And if you do that, its a winning combination. Cannon stressed that those in the anti-abortion movement are the foot soldiers of the Republican Party during elections and comprise a huge percentage of primary voters. No Republican candidate can win the presidency without the backing of the pro-life movement," he said. Abortion in America: How access and attitudes have changed through the centuries Abortion in America: How access and attitudes have changed through the centuries Pre-1850: Abortions in early America are commonplace Mid-1800s: Birth of the American Medical Association shifts abortion oversight from midwives to doctors; abortion is criminalized 1960s: 'Back-alley butchers,' birth control, and protests 1970s: Roe v. Wade protects women's right to abortion; politics shift 1980s-2000s: Legal challenges to Roe v. Wade introduce restrictions 2020s: Roe v. Wade is overturned; Postal Service allowed to mail abortion medication SAN FRANCISCO The maker of ChatGPT is trying to curb its reputation as a freewheeling cheating machine with a new tool that can help teachers detect if a student or artificial intelligence wrote that homework. The new AI Text Classifier by OpenAI follows a weeks-long discussion at schools and colleges over fears that ChatGPTs ability to write just about anything on command could fuel academic dishonesty and hinder learning. OpenAI cautions that its new tool like others already available is not foolproof. The method for detecting AI-written text is imperfect and it will be wrong sometimes, said Jan Leike, head of OpenAI's alignment team tasked to make its systems safer. Because of that, it shouldnt be solely relied upon when making decisions, Leike said. Teenagers and college students were among the millions of people who began experimenting with ChatGPT after it launched Nov. 30 as a free application on OpenAI's website. And while many found ways to use it creatively and harmlessly, the ease with which it could answer take-home test questions and assist with other assignments sparked a panic among some educators. By the time schools opened for the new year, New York City, Los Angeles and other big public school districts began to block its use in classrooms and on school devices. The Seattle Public Schools district initially blocked ChatGPT on all school devices in December but then opened access to educators who want to use it as a teaching tool, said Tim Robinson, the district spokesman. We cant afford to ignore it, Robinson said. The district is also discussing possibly expanding the use of ChatGPT into classrooms to let teachers use it to train students to be better critical thinkers and to let students use the application as a personal tutor or to help generate new ideas when working on an assignment, Robinson said. School districts around the country say they are seeing the conversation around ChatGPT evolve quickly. The initial reaction was OMG, how are we going to stem the tide of all the cheating that will happen with ChatGPT," said Devin Page, a technology specialist with the Calvert County Public School District in Maryland. Now there is a growing realization that this is the future and blocking it is not the solution, he said. I think we would be naive if we were not aware of the dangers this tool poses, but we also would fail to serve our students if we ban them and us from using it for all its potential power, said Page, who thinks districts like his own will eventually unblock ChatGPT, especially once the company's detection service is in place. OpenAI emphasized the limitations of its detection tool in a recent blog post, but said that in addition to deterring plagiarism, it could help to detect automated disinformation campaigns and other misuse of AI to mimic humans. The longer a passage of text, the better the tool is at detecting if an AI or human wrote something. Type in any text a college admissions essay, or a literary analysis of Ralph Ellisons Invisible Man and the tool will label it as either very unlikely, unlikely, unclear if it is, possibly, or likely AI-generated. But much like ChatGPT itself, which was trained on a huge trove of digitized books, newspapers and online writings but often confidently spits out falsehoods or nonsense, its not easy to interpret how it came up with a result. We dont fundamentally know what kind of pattern it pays attention to, or how it works internally, Leike said. Theres really not much we could say at this point about how the classifier actually works. Higher education institutions around the world also have begun debating responsible use of AI technology. Sciences Po, one of Frances most prestigious universities, prohibited its use last week and warned that anyone found surreptitiously using ChatGPT and other AI tools to produce written or oral work could be banned from Sciences Po and other institutions. In response to the backlash, OpenAI said it has been working for several weeks to craft new guidelines to help educators. Like many other technologies, it may be that one district decides that its inappropriate for use in their classrooms, said OpenAI policy researcher Lama Ahmad. We dont really push them one way or another. We just want to give them the information that they need to be able to make the right decisions for them. Its an unusually public role for the research-oriented San Francisco startup, now backed by billions of dollars in investment from its partner Microsoft and facing growing interest from the public and governments. Frances digital economy minister Jean-Noel Barrot recently met in California with OpenAI executives, including CEO Sam Altman, and a week later told an audience at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, that he was optimistic about the technology. But the government minister a former professor at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and the French business school HEC in Paris said there are also difficult ethical questions that will need to be addressed. So if youre in the law faculty, there is room for concern because obviously ChatGPT, among other tools, will be able to deliver exams that are relatively impressive, he said. If you are in the economics faculty, then youre fine because ChatGPT will have a hard time finding or delivering something that is expected when you are in a graduate-level economics faculty. He said it will be increasingly important for users to understand the basics of how these systems work so they know what biases might exist. HARTFORD, Conn. Decades before the infamous Salem witch trials in Massachusetts, Alse Young was killed at the gallows in Connecticut, becoming the first person on record to be executed in the American colonies for witchcraft. The Windsor town clerk registered the death on May 26, 1647, in a diary entry that read: Alse Young was hanged. Young was the first of nine women and two men executed by the colony of Connecticut for witchcraft over 15 years, a period during which more than 40 people faced trial for having ties to Satan. Now, more than 375 years later, amateur historians, researchers and descendants of the accused witches and their accusers hope Connecticut lawmakers will finally offer posthumous exonerations. While such requests arent new, they have become louder as many genealogy buffs discover they have distant relatives involved in the lesser-known Connecticut witch trials. Theyre talking about how this has followed their families from generation to generation and that they would love for someone just to say, Hey, this was wrong, said Connecticut state Rep. Jane Garibay, who proposed an exoneration resolution after receiving letters from eighth- and ninth-generation relatives of accused witches. And to me, thats an easy thing to do if it gives people peace. Other states and countries have attempted to atone for a history of persecuting people as witches. Last year, Scotlands prime minister issued a formal apology to the estimated 4,000 Scots, mostly women, who were accused of witchcraft up until 1736. Of the 4,000, about 2,500 were killed. A Scottish member of parliament last year called for posthumously pardoning them. In 2022, Massachusetts lawmakers formally exonerated Elizabeth Johnson Jr., who was convicted of witchcraft in 1693 and sentenced to death at the height of the Salem Witch Trials. Johnson is believed to be the last accused Salem witch to have her conviction set aside by legislators. In 2006, former Virginia Gov. Tim Kaine gave an informal pardon to Grace Sherwood, a widowed midwife who was blamed by neighbors for ruining crops, killing livestock and creating storms and subsequently accused of being a witch. With her hands bound, Sherwood was thrown into a river to see if she floated, which was purported to indicate guilt. She managed to set herself free and spent seven years in prison. Connecticuts witch trials were held in the mid-to-late 1600s. In each of the New England colonies, witchcraft was considered a capital offense. According to the earliest laws in the colony of Connecticut, any man or women (to) bee a Witch, that is, hath or consulteth with a familiar spirit, they shall bee put to death. Many historians believe fear and anxiety among the religiously strict English settlers led to the witch trials, noting how life was very difficult, given epidemics, floods, cold winters and starvation. Often, accusations started as a quarrel, or the death of a child or a cow, or even butter that couldnt be churned. Many of the people executed as witches were poor, single mothers. Such was the case of Mary Johnson, a servant in Wethersfield, Connecticut, who was accused of familiarity with the Devil. For years, she was tortured by a local minister who whipped her until she finally confessed to being a witch and admitted to uncleanness with men, according to Bridgeport author Andy Piascik, who wrote an article for Connecticut Humanities, an independent, nonprofit affiliate of the National Endowment for the Humanities. Johnson is believed to have been hanged after giving birth to the child of a man she was not married to. Its important to right the wrongs of the past so we learn from them and move on and not repeat those mistakes, said Joshua Hutchinson, of Prescott Valley, Arizona, who traced his ancestry to accused witches in Salem and is the host of the Thou Shalt Not Suffer: The Witch Trial Podcast. He noted that even in recent decades people have been killed in multiple countries because they were suspected of being witches or sorcerers. Beth Caruso, an author, co-founded the CT Witch Trial Exoneration Project in 2005 to clear the names of the accused. The group is encouraging people who discovered through genealogy research that they are descendants of victims to contact Connecticut state legislators and urge them to support exoneration legislation. Connecticut state Sen. Saud Anwar, who also proposed an exoneration bill, said he expects some people might laugh or scoff at the idea of the Legislature taking time to clear the records of accused witches. But he said the descendants are feeling some serious stuff, including a constituent who requested the resolution. His wish was that if there was a way to give some kind of a closure to the families, Anwar said, that would be one way for him to be able to say that he has done his share, even though his ancestors may have not done the right thing. Before she sent a Lincoln man to prison for his role in a 2021 shooting outside of a house party that killed a 31-year-old, Judge Susan Strong scolded the defendant for his recklessness that June morning. Daqwan Hickey did not fire the round that struck Deontae Abron near 61st and Adams streets at about 4 a.m. June 12, 2021. It was his brother, 27-year-old Shantrell Hickey, who fired the bullet that would lead to Abron's death two days later at an Omaha hospital. But both men fired into a crowd of people along Adams Street that morning, Strong said at Daqwan Hickey's sentencing Thursday afternoon. "It is only by chance that it was one of your brother's bullets that fatally wounded Mr. Abron and not yours," Strong said, before describing the 25-year-old's actions that morning as "about the most dangerous thing you could do." The judge's scolding came less than two months after Daqwan Hickey pleaded no contest to possession of a firearm by a prohibited person and attempted terroristic threats for his role in the shooting. He also pleaded no contest to possession of a firearm for an unrelated incident in March 2021. In court records, police described a large fight outside the party that preceded the shooting and two men firing shots, one into the air and the other, Shantrell Hickey, leveling the gun in the direction where Abron was standing with a group. At his sentencing hearing Thursday, his attorney, Nancy Peterson, asked Strong to give her client credit for the 564 days he's spent in the State Penitentiary toward his sentence in the shooting. In brief remarks to the court, Deputy Lancaster County Attorney Matt Mellor pointed to the Daqwan Hickey's "significant history" with gun violence and asked Strong to impose the longest prison sentence possible. The judge sided firmly with the prosecutor, rejecting Peterson's request and telling Hickey he "should serve a similar sentence to that imposed on" his brother, who Strong sentenced to 18 to 20 years in prison last month after he pleaded no contest to manslaughter. But the nature of Daqwan Hickey's plea agreement made a similar sentence impossible, so Strong sentenced him to the maximum four years on each weapons charge and the maximum two years for attempted terroristic threats. He will be eligible for parole after five years. The 10 richest cities in Nebraska for 2023 10.Bellevue 9. South Sioux City 8. Gering 7. La Vista 6. Columbus 5. Ralston 4. Papillion 3. Schuyler 2. Seward 1. Gretna DES MOINES Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird signed on to a letter on Thursday warning pharmacy chains Walgreens and CVS of legal trouble if they follow through on plans to deliver abortion pills by mail. The letter, signed by 20 Republican attorneys general, argued the pharmacies risked violating federal law by mailing abortion pills known as medication abortion contradicting guidance from President Joe Bidens administration. In an interview with the Quad-City Times on Friday, Bird said she disagreed with the way the drug, mifepristone, was approved for distribution and had safety concerns about broader accessibility of medication abortions. Any process to approve a drug to be distributed that way needs to be done the right way, according to the book, she said. We need to make sure that it is safe. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration last month finalized a rule allowing for retail pharmacies to dispense mifepristone, including through the mail. The sale of the drug was previously restricted to more specialized clinics. Walgreens and CVS both said when the FDA rule changed they were in the process of becoming certified to sell the medication. Bird said she was concerned the broader availability of the drug would lead to it being prescribed without an exam to decide if a pregnancy was in the right stage for the drug. The pills can be taken up to 11 weeks into a pregnancy, according to Planned Parenthood. Its not having a doctor examine the patient before prescribing in order to determine how far along the pregnancy is, she said. Thats where the complications come along from that pill. And when its an internet, mailing prescription, that is not in the best interest of womens health. Iowa has allowed for telemedicine-based medication abortions for years, but Iowans still need to receive an ultrasound before receiving the medication. Telehealth provider Carafem offers mailed medication abortions after a patient receives an ultrasound. In the letter, the attorneys general pointed to a federal law that prohibits using the mail to send or receive every article or thing designed, adapted or intended for producing abortion. The Justice Department last month issued contrary guidance, saying the law is intended only to prohibit the mailing of materials that would cause an abortion by unlawful means. The letter called the Biden administrations guidance a bizarre interpretation and suggested it could be challenged in court. But the text, not the Biden administrations view, is what governs, the attorneys general wrote. And the Biden administrations opinion fails to stand up even to the slightest amount of scrutiny. Asked if she would sign onto a lawsuit, Bird said a decision would be premature at this point. That would be something I would consider once I knew all of the facts, she said. In a statement on Thursday, Iowa Democratic Party Chair Rita Hart criticized the move as well as Republican Gov. Kim Reynolds efforts to restrict abortion in the state. When Brenna Bird quietly signed on to this letter full of thoroughly debunked inaccuracies, she set a dangerous precedent and signaled that she doesnt understand that her job is not to be a lackey for Kim Reynolds, Hart said. The majority of Iowans believe that abortion should be legal, and our leaders should respect and protect our reproductive freedoms. Medication abortion is legal in Iowa, but that could change under a bill proposed in the Iowa House. House File 146 would ban the prescribing, sale or transfer of mifepristone and other common drugs used for medication abortions. Dispensing the drugs would be a Class C felony. But its unclear what the prospects of the bill are as the Iowa Supreme Court considers a bid from Reynolds to reinstate a 2018 law that would ban abortions once cardiac activity can be detected in a fetus, usually around six weeks of pregnancy. Republican leaders in the House and Senate said before this years legislative session started they wanted to wait for a decision in that case before enacting any further restrictions on abortion. Sarah Watson of the Quad City Times contributed to the report. http:// OMAHA -- This man, dubbed the greatest Jeopardy! player of all time, will headline the Nebraska Science Festival. Who is Ken Jennings? Jennings, a standout player-turned-co-host of the quiz show, will headline the annual festival with a presentation April 6. He will present Artificial Intelligence: Are Humans in Jeopardy? The presentation is free but requires a reserved ticket. Its slated for 7:30 p.m. at the Boys Town Music Hall, 13715 Flanagan Blvd. The festival runs April 1 through April 30. During his keynote, Jennings will share the behind-the-scenes account of his 2011 battle with IBMs Watson. The super-intelligent computer was designed to beat the worlds best Jeopardy! players. Jennings watched Jeopardy! daily and dreamed of becoming a participant. He first appeared on the show in 2004, leading to a 74-game win streak. In 2020, he was named the shows Greatest of All Time after competing with fellow champs James Holzhauer and Brad Rutter. In 2022, he became permanent co-host of Jeopardy! with Mayim Bialik. Tickets to Jennings presentation will be available on a first-come, first-served basis starting March 6. For information, visit nescifest.com. Can you answer these real 'Jeopardy!' clues about American history? clues about American history? Clue #1 Answer #1: Who is Gwendolyn Brooks? Clue #2 Answer #2: Who is Benedict Arnold? Clue #3 Answer #3: What is Glory Days? Clue #4 Answer #4: Who is Phillis Wheatley? Clue #5 Answer #5: What is the Mexican-American War? Clue #6 Answer #6: Who is Misty Copeland? Clue #7 Answer #7: Who is Aaron Burr? Clue #8 Answer #8: Who is Margaret Mead? Clue #9 Answer #9: What is a bowie knife? Clue #10 Answer #10: Who is Sir Francis Drake? Clue #11 Answer #11: What is a 747? Clue #12 Answer #12: What is Denver? Clue #13 Answer #13: Who is Tecumseh? Clue #14 Answer #14: Who is Susan B. Anthony? Clue #15 Jackson? Clue #16 Answer #16: What is daylight saving time? Clue #17 Answer #17: What is Washington D.C.? Clue #18 Answer #18: Who is Zora Neale Hurston? Clue #19 Answer #19: What is Washington? Clue #20 Answer #20: Who is Eleanor Roosevelt? Clue #21 Answer #21: Who is Abraham Lincoln? Clue #22 Answer #22: What is Yorktown? Clue #23 Answer #23: Who is Reggie Jackson? Clue #24 Answer #24: Who is Horace Mann? Clue #25 Answer #25: Who is Kim Jong-il? America has always had a complicated relationship with the truth. From the Vietnam War to the Iraq War, from swiftboating to birtherism, from alternative facts to the whitewashed versions of the history taught in our schools, truth is in the mind of the beholder. While we have a long history of loose and varied interpretations of the truth, weve entered an extremely dangerous period where we celebrate, reward and elect some who are openly working to dismantle the truth. Manipulating the truth goes by many names, such as taken out of context, misspeaking, spinning and misinterpretation. These are terms that indicate how subtle and acceptable it can be to chip away at whats true. This practice has been a fundamental tool in business and politics for centuries. But every fracture of the truth weakens our trust as citizens, laying the groundwork for division, loss of faith in our institutions and principles, and the need to seek out alternative answers and guidance that better fit a specific narrative. It isnt enough for some leaders to flatly lie anymore. Theyre on the offense, actively gaslighting so forcefully that we start to question our reality. As a leader in the womens rights movement, I can confidently say that women have never truly been afforded the privilege of knowing whats true. For centuries, society lied to women by telling them their place is in the home, that their greatest achievement is becoming a mother, that they need to look a certain way, act a certain way and should be grateful for whatever pitiful concessions they get. The pioneering women who dared to challenge these norms were dismissed as crazy, emotional, undesirable and dangerous. In the wake of the Dobbs decision that overturned nearly 50 years of reproductive rights, extremists now have full license to conjure wild and deceptive information about womens health and abortion care. Women have and will continue to die because of these lies. For instance, some legislators are trying to push bills to ban medical procedures that simply do not exist. Anti-choice activists rely on the false narrative that abortions are dangerous, despite conclusive evidence proving the safety of the procedure. These groups conveniently omit that abortions are significantly safer than pregnancy and childbirth. And these groups are working to create an environment where the truth is not just unwelcome, but it is a danger to be silenced. Another way we attack the truth is by assigning a higher value to one truth over another. Just like George Floyds murder by police in Minneapolis didnt suddenly create systemic racism, the #MeToo movement didnt suddenly create systemic misogyny. Oppression and discrimination against women are so pervasive throughout our society that many women cant even recognize when theyre being victimized. But for those who speak out against abuse, theyre rarely believed. It took dozens and dozens of women to come forward to speak out against movie mogul Harvey Weinstein to ignite #MeToo when it should have only taken one woman. Our society doesnt believe a womans truth because we have collectively decided a mans truth is worth more. Like the gender wage gap, women are on the losing end of the gender reality gap. While its easy to blame QAnon, ridiculous conspiracy theories and the "big lie as some of the primary sources of the war on truth, in reality America has never had a fully stable or consistent relationship with the truth. Instead of allowing this to be cause for alarm, let it remind us that, in fighting this war, it is our democratic duty to always call for justice. It is of the utmost importance that, as members of our democracy, we must always reconcile what we think the truth is with what it actually is. After all, this is and has always been a war worth fighting. "Between the Lines," a soon-to-be-released feature film, details a young woman's quest for a new life while caring for her mom, who is suffering from a traumatic brain injury, and enduring emotional abuse from her cruel grandmother. But if you're really looking between the lines, each woman in this three-generational drama reflects a different aspect of filmmaker Shelby Hagerdon's personality. Or at the very least, they are characters that the first-time feature film director can picture sharing a mocha latte with on a cold Midwestern night. "As a screenwriter and a director, I've always been drawn to women with complicated lives," Hagerdon explained. "People may want you to make movies about zombies but I think there is an audience for movies about people." Filmed in Sioux Falls, S.D., and cast with actors from the Midwest and Los Angeles, "Between the Lines" will have its world premiere at 6:45 p.m. Feb. 21 at the Majestic Theatre, 310 Main St., in Wayne, Neb., which is near Wayne State College (WSC), where Hagerdon earned her bachelor of fine arts degree in film production and history in 2021. "After graduating from Wayne State, I was accepted into Emerson College (of Boston) for their film and television writing master's program," she said. "As a part of the program, I needed to produced a full-length screenplay." That was where "Between the Lines" was born. Not only did Hagerdon write and produce the movie, she also designed the costumes. She shared directing credits with Michael White, who is an associate professor at WSC. "I handled the technical side of things while Shelby worked exclusively with the actors," White said. "This was very much Shelby's baby." Still, the two are frequent collaborators. Hagerdon was a producer for 2021's "A Date with Lily" and 2022's "The Queen of Pandora's Box," which were movies White wrote and directed. Previously, White served as the executive director for 2020's "Sigmund and Dora," a short film that Hagerdon had made as a WSC student. It was a movie based on Ida Bauer, who was the subject of Sigmund Freud's famous case study on "female hysteria." Hagerdon said people were initially surprised by the topic. "Everyone thought Freud should be the focus because he was the person with a household name," she said. "Instead, I knew Ida (called 'Dora' in Freud's study) needed to have the dominant role." White said such differences are common in the way that male and female filmmakers approach their work. "Men tend to tackle a scene in a very physical way while women will handle the same scene in an intellectual or emotional way," he noted. While Hagerdon doesn't disagree with White, she said the issue is more complicated than that. "My scripts tend to feature the female voice," Hagerdon said. "But I write for what I perceive as being my audience, which includes both men and women." Something that Hagerdon and White wholeheartedly agree upon is a mutual love of New York-based filmmakers like Noah Baumbach and Greta Gerwig. "Dialogue is key to New York filmmakers," White, who has also written novels, explained. "You can tell a lot about a character by the way he talks." Stylistically, both White and Hagerdon cite French New Wave directors as influences. "I love (director Celine Sciamma's 2008's) 'Water Lillies' and consider (director) Agnes Varda (1962's 'Cleo from 5 to 7') as my hero," Hagerdon said. Which is heady stuff for a girl who grew up on a farm near Smithland, Iowa. According to White, Hagerdon is an artist as well as a filmmaker. "Shelby will, literally, storyboard every scene before it is filmed," he said. "Shelby's eye is that exacting." The need to illustrate a scene may also come from Hagerdon's animation background. She is the animation director for the Columbus, Ohio-based creative video agency Made by Things. Mostly, Hagerdon sees herself as a writer, creating characters she'd like to see in real-life. "When a writer writes a screenplay, her relationship with characters remain even after the movie is over," she said. "Sometimes, you'll stop and think what will this character do in a completely different scenario." White said that is very common when authors form a bond with their own creations. So, how will audiences feel about the characters Hagerdon created in "Between the Lines"? "Hopefully, things are never as black or white as they appear," she said. "Even though, the family members in the movie are dysfunctional, they still need each other. The grandmother may do terrible things but she does it out of love." The sex worker forum Stripperweb looked like a perfect 2000s-era internet relic. Its classic interface was a pleasingly saccharine amalgamation of soft pinks, accented by a bubble-lettering logo that substituted flowers for letter counters, and a particularly literal illustration of a stripper standing in front of a web. This unwavering designbarely altered since the forums launch in 2002was a familiar comfort to sex workers and their clients. Within its vast nexus of subforums, they could find discussions about nearly every aspect of sex work: rates to charge; club reviews; tax advice; warnings about dangerous clients. More than that, users could forge friendships, vent to an understanding audience, and enjoy a rare safe space online where being a sex worker was wonderfully unremarkable. Advertisement That is, until last week, when a baby-pink banner appeared at the top of the website warning of the imminent closure of the forum. For over 20 years, Stripperweb has been one of the best resources for exotic dancers and webcam models on the internet, it read. Weve made the difficult decision to close Stripperweb effective February 1. Thank you to everyone who has made this such an amazing community. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As promised, the site shuttered on Wednesday. The forums that once littered the homepage are gone, as is everything else. With just a weeks warning of the closure, sex workers reacted to the news with shock and anger. Many of them took to Twitter to express their devastation at the immense communal and cultural loss of an invaluable sex work resource. One person described the shutdown as the modern burning of the Library of Alexandria. Thats not even dramatic, Darcy Delaney, an exotic dancer and adult content creator from North Carolina, told me. She cried when she found out about the closure. Sex worker history is always being erased, she said. Weve been here for millennia, but we so rarely get to share our stories in our own words, and on our own terms. Advertisement stripperweb is shutting down next week?! The depth of knowledge & advice on this forum is incalculable! An immense communal & cultural loss for dancers, esp new girls looking for a solid resource to start. pic.twitter.com/KZGC38kSoS marla cruz (@prolepeach) January 25, 2023 Advertisement Cam model partners Nyx, 26, and Vixen, 32, from the east coast of Australia, first visited the site five years ago, before they started camming. Initially, they scoured the forum for advice on cam sites, equipment, and payment processors, but they eventually used it to connect with peers and keep up-to-date with ever-changing cam site policies. They pointed out that cam girls also relied on the site to warn each other of any pirated porn they came across, as well as to mobilize against mistreatment. Advertisement Advertisement Stripperweb was a space where we could be free from the observation of the public, the titillating or stigmatizing gaze, and from having to inhabit a fantasy, the pair told me. To vent, commiserate, connect, support, and share skills with each other. Its loss is truly the end of an era. But while some were mourning its loss, others were organizing. On Stripperweb, the campaign to save the site started immediately. Urgent threads about possible crowdfunding efforts sprang up, as did archiving inquiries and questions about ownershipspecifically, who was the current owner, where were they, and why had they shut the site down? I can't help but think the closing of StripperWeb was done maliciously. One week's notice (which is not enough to archive everything properly), ignoring any attempts to buy the site, ignoring everyones comments, and then simply locking the site for good. Lady Judas (@antichristrix) February 1, 2023 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Even for the sites moderators, the reason behind the closure remains a total mystery. Its all rumors and speculation at this point, Taja Ethereal, an adult creator and Stripperweb moderator, told me. Initially, like many users, Taja thought it was a financial issue, so she decided to create a thread to gauge how many people would contribute to a crowdfunding effort, or whod be willing to adopt some kind of paid subscription model for the site. The majority of respondents said theyd be willing to pay to keep the forum alive. Taja said she also offered to buy Stripperweb herself for $12,000, posting her proposal in the private moderator lounge, as well as emailing it to a super-moderator. No one got back to her. They didnt even bother to come to the table and negotiate, she lamented. If the offer was too low, we could have easily gotten [more] money togetherwe have members on the forum making six figures a year. Advertisement Advertisement From this, Taja has concluded that the shutdown must not be related to money. But, without any communication from the forums owners, its difficult to draw an alternative conclusion. And so, the hunt for Stripperwebs bossesand therefore answersbegan. In one thread, users shared tips on tracking down whoever runs the site. Someone linked to the profile of an anonymous administrator called Bob, who Taja said entered the picture around 2009. Apparently, hed been online in the days since the closure announcement was made. Others shared their own failed attempts at contacting the official Stripperweb email addresses, which appear to have been closed last week. Nobody had any luck (including meI also got a bounceback alert from the Stripperweb admin email). The domain information website ICANN didnt offer many clues, eitherthe Stripperweb URL was registered in 2001 by a private individual via Domains By Proxy, a service that obscures the identity of website owners. Theres an option to contact the anonymous domain holder, but at the time of publication, they havent responded to my request. Advertisement It's gone bye Stripperweb, you were a good friend and the best Bible for Camming ever pic.twitter.com/GuZQNNrBTO Goddess Kate Alexis (@XKateAlexisX) February 1, 2023 All we know about the people behind Stripperweb comes from a 10-year anniversary post by the sites founder, Curtis Pryce. He wrote that he developed the forum as a college kid trying to figure out what the internet could be used for, alongside some dancer friends who were in need of a virtual hangout to call home. This post also appeared to be Pryces retirement announcement, as he revealed he was passing admin duties onto someone called Wayne. He also thanked The Other Owner, who offered to carry most of our financial burden at a critical time, and continued funding after that, too. I reached out to Pryce via Twitter, but received no responsehe hasnt tweeted since 2013. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The last contact from anyone who might be in touch with the owner(s) appears to be from Stripperwebs super-moderator, just before the site went down. On Twitter, Taja shared a screenshot of the very last message they posted on Stripperweb. Im sorry that I dont have any other information to provide, it read. None of this is within my control. I swear, if I could take this forum on myself, I would. Ultimatelyno matter the logistical reasonsTaja asserts that Stripperweb is closing down because the owner doesnt respect us. If they did, they wouldnt be pulling the plug this way, she continues. They dont give two shits about what happens to the community. Advertisement Its not especially new or surprising that the owners of sex work sites dont prioritize their users safety or well-being. Just look at OnlyFans 2021 proposed ban (and then backtrack) on adult content, Pornhubs indiscriminate video purge in 2020, Tumblrs 2018 porn ban, or Patreons 2017 crackdown on NSFW content. And, while traditional social networking sites like Instagram already notoriously shadowban and deplatform sex workers, this seems to be an increasing problem on more sexually liberal platforms like Twitter and Reddit, too. As reported by Rolling Stone in 2021, adult platforms Clips4Sale and ModelCentro were suspended without notice from Twitter, around the same time that the site saw an 82 percent increase in sex worker account deletions. Then, last year, sex workers on Reddit also found that their accounts were being removed or restricted. Both platforms denied that this was happening, and suggested there were no policy changes that would lead to such deplatforming. Most recently, the Australian social media platform Switter was forced to close last March. Advertisement The very last message from the Supermod on Stripperweb. I have mixed feelings about this. These are not answers. These are excuses. pic.twitter.com/LtbQSZ4DZX CammodelWeb (@cammodelweb) February 1, 2023 Advertisement In recent years, sex workers around the world have faced an onslaught of digital censorship efforts, owing largely to the introduction of various online safety bills and, most famously, the American antisex trafficking legislation FOSTA-SESTA. Passed in 2018, the bill, which holds websites criminally liable for content that may promote sex trafficking, has become highly problematic and dangerous to sex workers across the industry (not to mention completely ineffective at stopping trafficking). It does not differentiate between sex trafficking and consensual sex work, meaning that perfectly consensual sex actsas well as mere discussions of sex work and community-building among sex workerscan be interpreted as promoting trafficking. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement With this in mind, its possible that Stripperwebs threads about escortingwhich is not legal in most U.S. statestriggered some sort of SESTA-FOSTA-related ban. That said, the posts didnt advertise sex for moneythey simply offered advice on how to do it safely, or offered escorts the opportunity to connect with one another. Plenty of other forums host similar information, particularly on Reddit. Yet, theyre still up and running, while Stripperweb is not. A silver lining, at least, is that much of Stripperwebs content can still be viewed, thanks to the tireless work of sex workers and allies who scrambled to archive the site, its various forums, and indispensable threads ahead of its closure. The Wayback Machine has managed to save nearly, if not all, of the forums decades-long history. Los Angeles-based performer and sex worker Maya Kendrick also appears to be working on an extensive archive, while an anonymous data scientist posted on Stripperweb to offer their services. I have seen how deeply many of you care for this place, they wrote on a now-archived Stripperweb thread. Libraries are an incredibly important thing. Advertisement Advertisement okay so basically where i'm at is that stripperweb is MASSIVE and nearly impossible to mirror in only 4 days. please send me all of what you think are the most important forum threads and i will do my very best to archive them this weekend. Maya Kendrick (@mayakendrickxo) January 28, 2023 For their part, the anonymous owners did suggest an alternative forum in their closure message: AmberCuties Forum, which has over 59,000 members and is run by the eponymous Seattle-based cam girl (who didnt respond to Slates request for comment). The forum is functionally similar to Stripperweb, with forums for certain conversationslike Cam Chat, Stripchat, and Random Chatas well as a marketplace for seeking/advertising services. That said, it seems to be less defined and exhaustive than Stripperweb, and has a particular focus on camming, which has made many users reluctant to join. Advertisement Taja has also created an alternative, called CammodelWeb (though its currently got a temporary URL, shitguyssaytocamgirls.com). Her backup forum actually existed before Stripperweb announced its shutdown because, as she says, shed always noticed a lack of transparency regarding who was really in charge, and had predicted that this day was coming long ago. Folks are already reaching out to assist the transition in any way they can, she continued. Despite the predicament that were all in, the show of support is whats driving me to make CammodelWeb a success. So far, the forum has nearly 8,000 members. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement With Stripperweb closed, its unclear where its former users will turnbut its undeniable that a safe space for sex workers to gather privately online is vital, pressing, and increasingly hard to find. Spaces for sex workers being reduced in tandem with antisex worker legislation, discriminatory banking policies, and social media and web-hosting discrimination is part of the larger kyriarchal project to control the bodies of women and queer people as a class, declared Darcy. Some of us are survival sex workers, meaning this is all we have. So many of us are disabled or otherwise marginalized, but we still need to live. We deserve spaces for us and run by us, she concluded. Silencing us wont make us go away. https://sputnikglobe.com/20230204/actor-claims-he-knows-where-prince-harry-really-lost-his-virginity-1106977968.html Actor Claims He Knows Where Prince Harry Really Lost His Virginity Actor Claims He Knows Where Prince Harry Really Lost His Virginity The English star claimed that the tryst the prince referred to in his memoir actually occurred somewhere outside of the country and that he knows the name of the woman involved. 2023-02-04T15:50+0000 2023-02-04T15:50+0000 2023-02-04T15:50+0000 viral prince harry virginity loss story /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e6/05/06/1095310533_0:336:2048:1488_1920x0_80_0_0_d94032f930ac840bcc7c9c0676f0f08f.jpg Actor Rupert Everett has questioned the veracity of a salacious story Prince Harry included in his recently-released memoir "Spare."The story in question is Harrys account of how he lost his virginity at the age of 17 to an older woman, whose name the royal did not mention in his book. The rendez-vous reportedly occurred in a "grassy field behind a busy [unnamed] pub.""Inglorious episode, with an older woman. She liked horses, quite a lot, and treated me not unlike a young stallion," the prince wrote. "Quick ride, after which she'd smacked my rump and sent me off to graze."Everett, however, said he knows the real story of Harrys first sexual conquest, sharing this tidbit during an interview with one UK newspaper.A source close to Prince Harry also reportedly told the newspaper that it is amazing that Everett would have better knowledge of such personal detail than the Duke of Sussex himself. https://sputnikglobe.com/20230114/prince-harry-ditched-parts-from-memoir-to-spare-family-afraid-they-would-never-forgive-him-1106305460.html Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2023 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International prince harry memoir, prince harry virginity https://sputnikglobe.com/20230204/anti-government-rally-in-tel-aviv-1106972495.html Anti-Government Rally in Tel Aviv Anti-Government Rally in Tel Aviv The opposition believes that Netanyahus planned reforms undermine democracy and the judicial system of Israel, with protesters taking to the streets for... 04.02.2023, Sputnik International 2023-02-04T16:29+0000 2023-02-04T16:29+0000 2023-02-04T16:29+0000 world israel protests middle east benjamin netanyahu /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e6/02/15/1093223684_0:160:3073:1888_1920x0_80_0_0_7c0afe40d4638eabd1e8724ad94c84de.jpg Sputnik is live from Tel Aviv, where a demonstration against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government is taking place. Netanyahu, who returned to power in December 2022, and Justice Minister Yariv Levin have proposed new legislation that gives government and parliament greater control over the Supreme Court. The protesters include lawyers, judges and business representatives who believe that Netanyahu's policies lead to the erosion of democracy and an independent judiciary system. For its part, the government insists that the reforms will restore the balance between the judiciary, executive and legislative branches.Follow Sputnik's Live Feed to Find Out More! israel Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2023 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Anti-Government Rally in Tel Aviv Anti-Government Rally in Tel Aviv 2023-02-04T16:29+0000 true PT1S 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International israel, protests, middle east, benjamin netanyahu, https://sputnikglobe.com/20230204/breaking-us-shoots-down-alleged-chinese-spy-balloon-1106980202.html US Shoots Down Alleged Chinese Spy Balloon US Shoots Down Alleged Chinese Spy Balloon The balloon, which the United States has claimed is a Chinese surveillance balloon, first became public knowledge on Thursday. 2023-02-04T19:50+0000 2023-02-04T19:50+0000 2023-02-05T02:34+0000 americas chinese balloon over us china south carolina atlantic ocean /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e7/02/04/1106980623_0:55:814:513_1920x0_80_0_0_cb281335c79b13e586e2ee62244e71d0.jpg The US Military shot down the Chinese balloon that has been flying over the United States over the past few days on Saturday afternoon. Witness video of the balloon's destruction was first posted on social media and live streamed by national media. The balloon was reportedly shot down off the East Coast of North Carolina.The Chinese government says the balloon is a civilian vessel designed to monitor weather patterns that had blown off course. The balloon was reportedly flying at about 66,000 feet.Prior to the operation that brought down the balloon, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) had paused flights at three airports in the area "to support the Defense Department in a national security effort." The grounding of those airports has reportedly been lifted.Earlier in the week, it was reported that the US Military advised against shooting down the craft while it was over land. Officials feared the falling debris could be dangerous to civilians on the ground.Despite those apprehensions, multiple Republicans, including former President Donald Trump, criticized President Joe Biden for not shooting down the plane. Trump's son Donald Trump Jr. encouraged citizens in Montana to take action into their own hands while the alleged surveillance balloon was over the state.Beach-goers at Myrtle Beach, North Carolina captured the operation using cell phone cameras and posted it to Twitter and other social media sites. US Fighter Jets can be seen circling the craft before one appears to fire a missile at it, causing the remnants of the balloon to crash back to earth.Earlier on Saturday, President Biden told reporters that his administration was "gonna take care" of the balloon when asked if he planned to shoot it down. The Pentagon said on Friday that the balloon did not pose a threat militarily or politically.The official added that the order was given by the President and was supported by military leadership.US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken was scheduled to visit Beijing on Sunday, that trip has been indefinitely postponed because of the incident, though China says the trip was never officially announced. Beijing added that it respects Washington's decision to cancel the trip.President Biden spoke to reporters after the operation on Saturday, saying he wanted to bring the balloon down on Wednesday. The balloon did not become public knowledge until Thursday. https://sputnikglobe.com/20230204/blinkens-now-cancelled-visit-to-china-was-never-officially-announced-beijing-says-1106971383.html americas china south carolina atlantic ocean Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2023 Ian DeMartino Ian DeMartino News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Ian DeMartino chinese spy balloon, surveillance balloon, myrtle beach, south carolina, shot down, us shoots down https://sputnikglobe.com/20230204/cargo-traffic-via-russian-chinese-border-hits-record-high-in-january--1106978313.html Cargo Traffic Via Russian-Chinese Border Hits Record High in January Cargo Traffic Via Russian-Chinese Border Hits Record High in January Cargo traffic through the Zabaykalsk-Manchuria border crossing on the Russian-Chinese border reached record levels in January, with the countries' mutual trade expected to grow even more amid easing of COVID-19 restrictions in China 2023-02-04T16:03+0000 2023-02-04T16:03+0000 2023-02-04T16:04+0000 economy russia china cargo zero tolerance /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/103544/74/1035447403_0:331:1362:1097_1920x0_80_0_0_de214d27a630b8f75155245d118fa45d.jpg The consulate added that coal exports from Russia to China had doubled over the past month compared to January 2022, with around 10,000 tonnes of coal delivered daily to the Manchuria railway station. The supplies of Russia's fertilizers via the border crossing had increased by 41% ahead of the start of the agricultural season, the mission added. Mutual trade between the two countries is expected to grow even more amid China's recent easing of COVID-19 restrictions, according to the general consulate. The Zabaykalsk-Manchuria railway border crossing is the largest transport hub on the Russian-Chinese border, operating 24/7 despite the unstable epidemic situation in the Chinese regions near the border. Last year, as many as 15 million tonnes of cargo crossed this checkpoint. In December, China's government started to gradually ease its "zero tolerance" policy toward the COVID-19 pandemic, which had been the strictest in the world for almost three years. It had negative impact on global economy, supply chains, tourism and intergovernmental exchanges. Easing restrictions is expected to boost China's trade with foreign partners. https://sputnikglobe.com/20221230/putin-says-russia-china-trade-will-grow-by-25-by-end-of-2022-despite-intimidation-by-west-1105918412.html https://sputnikglobe.com/20230113/russia-china-enjoy-record-29-bump-in-trade-signaling-failure-of-western-sanctions-1106296999.html russia china Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2023 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International russia-china economic relations, russia-china trade, russia, china https://sputnikglobe.com/20230204/eu-provides-for-55-day-transition-period-as-part-of-new-price-cap-for-russian-oil-products-1106975014.html EU Provides for 55-Day Transition Period as Part of New Price Cap for Russian Oil Products EU Provides for 55-Day Transition Period as Part of New Price Cap for Russian Oil Products The European Union has set a 55-day transition period for Russian petroleum products bought above the price cap, introduced on Friday by the bloc itself, G7 and Australia. 2023-02-04T12:31+0000 2023-02-04T12:31+0000 2023-02-04T12:51+0000 energy crisis in europe europe european union (eu) 2022 russian oil price cap /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e7/01/1b/1106769431_0:960:2048:2112_1920x0_80_0_0_9d220842d2124003fb8fecd2bc0cddea.jpg On Friday, the EU said it was introducing a price cap for Russian oil products, together with G7 and Australia, at $100 per barrel for premium-to-crude products (such as diesel and kerosene) and $45 for discount-to-crude products (such as naphtha). The price cap on petroleum products from Russia will be implemented from Sunday, the European Commission said in a statement on Saturday, adding that there would be a transition period. On February 5, the EU's ban on import of Russian petroleum products, approved as part of a last year's sanctions package, will also take effect. The price cap bars EU companies from providing services, including technical assistance and financing, among others, to transport Russian petroleum products to third countries above the limit. Western countries have been seeking ways to limit Russia's income from oil and gas exports, as well as their dependence on Russian fuel since the country launched a military operation in Ukraine on February 24. On December 5, the European Union placed a price cap of $60 per barrel on Russian crude oil, joined by the G7 nations and Australia. In late December, Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a decree banning supplies of Russian oil and petroleum products if contracts directly or indirectly provide for a price cap. According to Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov, the Russian president did not consult with OPEC+ allies before signing off on the response measures. https://sputnikglobe.com/20221223/1105722929.html Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2023 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International energy crisis in europe, price cap on russian oil, price cap on russian petroleum, russian hydrocarbons https://sputnikglobe.com/20230204/hungarian-energy-ministry-warns-of-diesel-deficit-in-eu-given-reliance-on-russian-supplies-1106976627.html Hungarian Energy Ministry Warns of Diesel Deficit in EU Given Reliance on Russian Supplies Hungarian Energy Ministry Warns of Diesel Deficit in EU Given Reliance on Russian Supplies Europe may see a growth in diesel prices and even its shortage once an EU-wide ban on Russian oil products comes into force on February 5, as the country accounted for 50% of the European Union's needs for the fuel 2023-02-04T13:17+0000 2023-02-04T13:17+0000 2023-02-04T14:38+0000 energy crisis in europe russian oil shipments price cap /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e6/0b/1e/1104859410_0:159:3076:1889_1920x0_80_0_0_e6e1fe1b9514f631886d6a1fcb66682e.jpg Starting Sunday, the EU will prohibit imports of Russian-origin petroleum products used throughout Europe. Meanwhile, the bloc, along with G7 and Australia, instituted on Friday a price cap on Russian oil products, which bars access to various services, including financing and insurance, unless the products are purchased at or below the agreed limits of $100 per barrel for premium-to-crude products (such as diesel and kerosene) and $45 per barrel for discount-to-crude products (such as naphtha). From the outset, Hungary opposed expanding sanctions to include the Russian energy sphere, as most of the oil comes into the country from Russia via the Druzhba pipeline, the ministry noted. Thanks to a temporary exemption for the pipeline imports, secured by Hungary in 2022, the country will still be allowed to domestically refine Russian oil after the embargo kicks in on Sunday, the ministry said. However, "it will only be possible to trade with other countries with products of non-Russian origin."This condition means that an oil refinery, located in the Slovak capital of Bratislava and a subsidiary of the Hungarian company MOL, will only be able to export petroleum products made from non-Russian oil to other countries, including Hungary. Meanwhile, the company said earlier that non-Russian oil made up only just 30% of its crude.The ministry pointed out that "the consequences of the new restrictions, which are now coming to force, could affect Hungary in the long run."On October 7, the European Union introduced its eighth package of sanctions against Moscow which, among other things, set a framework for capping the price of Russian seaborne oil exports at a level coordinated by G7 allies. Some EU countries, including Hungary, were excluded from such measures as they import Russian oil through pipelines.In late December, Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a decree banning supplies of Russian oil and petroleum products if contracts directly or indirectly provide for a price cap. https://sputnikglobe.com/20221029/who-are-the-just-stop-oil-protesters--why-do-they-attack-art-1102761323.html Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2023 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International energy crisis in europe, diesel fuel, price cap https://sputnikglobe.com/20230204/iranian-national-security-council-secretary-to-visit-russia-next-week-1106967579.html Iranian National Security Council Secretary to Visit Russia Next Week Iranian National Security Council Secretary to Visit Russia Next Week Iranian Supreme National Security Council Secretary Ali Shamkhani will visit Russia next week for consultations on Afghanistan, Russian special presidential envoy for Afghanistan Zamir Kabulov told Sputnik on Saturday. 2023-02-04T06:41+0000 2023-02-04T06:41+0000 2023-02-04T06:57+0000 world russia iran security /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/102814/67/1028146727_0:182:3500:2151_1920x0_80_0_0_8444797f247f90ff6303c30ace330d52.jpg Shamkhani will participate in the multilateral meeting of secretaries of the security councils on the Afghan issue, the envoy specified, adding that "this is a planned event that has been long overdue." When asked whether there are any plans to discuss the situation in Iran, after the recent drone attack in the province of Isfahan, Kabulov said that to his knowledge this issue "is not on the agenda." The last round of multilateral consultations of secretaries of the security councils on the Afghan issue took place in Dushanbe, Tajikistan, in May 2022, with the participation of representatives from India, Iran, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Russia, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan. Last week, an explosion occurred in Isfahan's northern neighborhood at one of the military enterprises of the Iranian Defense Ministry, media reported. Mini-drones reportedly attacked an ammunition depot. No casualties were registered. The same night, an explosion and a subsequent fire occurred at an industrial oil production plant in the city of Azarshahr in northwestern Iran. Amercian media reported, citing US officials, that Israel was behind the drone attack. Similar assumptions were voiced by an Iranian official, according to press. russia iran Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2023 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International world, russia, iran, security, aghanistan, drone attack on iran Air Raid Sirens Sound in Eastern Regions of Ukraine MOSCOW (Sputnik) - Air raid warnings were in effect in a number of eastern Ukrainian regions late on Saturday night, according to air raid data from the countrys Ministry of Digital Transformation. Air raid sirens went off shortly after midnight in the Ukrainian regions of Sumy, Poltava, Kharkov, Nikolaev, and Dnepropetrovsk, as well as the Ukraine-controlled parts of Zaporozhye, Kherson and the Donetsk Peoples Republic (DPR), the ministrys online map showed. Precision strikes against Ukrainian infrastructure have been carried out by Russia since October 10, 2022 (two days after the terrorist attack on the Crimean Bridge). Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal said in November of last year that about 50% of Ukraine's energy infrastructure had been damaged. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said in December that, at that time, it was impossible to restore the country's energy infrastructure to 100%. Russia launched its special military operation in Ukraine on February 24, 2022, after the Donetsk and Lugansk peoples republics appealed for help in defending themselves against Ukrainian provocations. In response to Russias operation, Western countries have rolled out a comprehensive sanctions campaign against Moscow and have been supplying weapons to Ukraine. On September 30 last year, Russian President Vladimir Putin and the heads of the Donetsk and Lugansk people's republics, as well as Kherson and Zaporozhye regions, signed agreements on the accession of these territories to Russia, following referendums that showed that an overwhelming majority of the local population supported becoming part of the country. https://sputnikglobe.com/20230204/news-wrap-up-decoupling-from-china-is-fatally-flawed-trump-opposes-ukraine-proxy-conflict-1106964420.html News Wrap-Up; Decoupling From China is Fatally Flawed; Trump Opposes Ukraine Proxy Conflict News Wrap-Up; Decoupling From China is Fatally Flawed; Trump Opposes Ukraine Proxy Conflict Former President Donald Trump is speaking out on the danger of continuing the Ukraine proxy conflict. 04.02.2023, Sputnik International 2023-02-04T09:17+0000 2023-02-04T09:17+0000 2023-02-04T09:17+0000 the critical hour uhuru movement donald trump ukraine tyre nichols china baloon twitter radio /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e7/02/04/1106964274_0:0:1920:1080_1920x0_80_0_0_a731b426906ec0a210506abe6d7a2fb0.png News Wrap Up; Decoupling From China is Fatally Flawed; Trump Opposes Ukraine War Former President Donald Trump is speaking out on the danger of continuing the Ukraine proxy conflict. Caleb Maupin, journalist and political analyst, joins us to discuss the important news stories of the week. Russian President Vladimir Putin has warned the US about escalating the conflict. Also, the latest Twitter files expose ushers in the death of Russiagate and Sergey Lavrov lays out Russia's priorities for ending the Ukraine conflict.Dr. Jack Rasmus, professor of Economics and Politics at St. Mary's College in California, joins us to discuss the important economic stories of the week. Restaurants are struggling to find workers as the US labor shortage takes hold. Also, the GOP pushes austerity and the Fed raises rates again.George Koo, journalist, social activist, and international business consultant, joins us to discuss the important news stories of the week. The neocon aims to decouple the US economy from its top trading partner is an absurd and fatally flawed concept. Also, there is a new controversy about a Chinese balloon.Dr. Colin Campbell, DC senior news correspondent, and Ajamu Baraka, 2016 US vice presidential candidate for the Green Party, come together to discuss this week's important news stories. Public confidence in the police drops after the Tyre Nichols beating tape surfaces. Also, Harvard is shutting down its social media misinformation project and Ilhan Omar talks about Israel and Palestine.Steve Poikonen, national organizer for Action4Assange, and Ted Rall, political cartoonist, and syndicated columnist, come together to discuss this week's important news stories. "Robin Hood" strikes are taking hold in France as workers act to give government services to the poor. Also, the Twitter files reveal the Hamilton 68 fraud and the FBI is attacking the African People Socialist Party in a move reminiscent of cointelpro.We'd love to get your feedback at radio@sputniknews.comThe views and opinions expressed in this program are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the position of Sputnik. ukraine china Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2023 Garland Nixon https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e5/02/13/1082125302_0:0:239:239_100x100_80_0_0_d5d43c970b0740f228597fbcdb4ffd66.jpg Garland Nixon https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e5/02/13/1082125302_0:0:239:239_100x100_80_0_0_d5d43c970b0740f228597fbcdb4ffd66.jpg News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Garland Nixon https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e5/02/13/1082125302_0:0:239:239_100x100_80_0_0_d5d43c970b0740f228597fbcdb4ffd66.jpg uhuru movement, donald trump, ukraine, tyre nichols, china, baloon, twitter, , radio https://sputnikglobe.com/20230204/police-search-for-stolen-shrek-statue-in-us-town-1106977685.html Police Search for Stolen Shrek Statue in US Town Police Search for Stolen Shrek Statue in US Town The media note that the motives of the thieves are completely incomprehensible, since the statue cannot be sold. 2023-02-04T14:46+0000 2023-02-04T14:46+0000 2023-02-04T14:46+0000 viral us /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e7/02/04/1106977539_0:96:547:404_1920x0_80_0_0_efd69c35041c6e4f3928603bec4c4df4.png A statue of the legendary green ogre Shrek has disappeared in the small US town of Hatfield, Massachusetts. Evidence from the crime scene indicates that the perpetrators dragged the heavy statue across the ground.Authorities have published an appeal to local residents asking for help. The owner of the statue noted that despite setting him back $500, the piece of art is priceless to him. Hatfield Police have approached the search with humor, noting in a social media post that the dragon sculpture he [Shrek] lives with is frustrated and lonely. Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2023 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International shrek, shrek statue missing, strange theft https://sputnikglobe.com/20230204/russia-has-potential-in-gas-oil-fields-to-develop-ties-with-africa-foreign-ministry-says-1106969036.html Russia Has Potential in Gas, Oil Fields to Develop Ties With Africa, Foreign Ministry Says Russia Has Potential in Gas, Oil Fields to Develop Ties With Africa, Foreign Ministry Says In this article, Russian Ambassador-at-Large Oleg Ozerov says that Russia has much potential in the oil and gas spheres to develop relations with African states. 2023-02-04T09:19+0000 2023-02-04T09:19+0000 2023-02-04T09:19+0000 africa russia cooperation oil gas oleg ozerov /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e7/02/04/1106968890_0:0:3227:1816_1920x0_80_0_0_6797011132aa700806c3ed49e71231ac.jpg In late 2022, the chairman of the African Energy Chamber, NJ Ayuk, told Sputnik that Moscow could play a leading role in supporting energy projects in Africa. The official also noted that Russia has started exporting fertilizers to African countries. In July 2022, Russia, Ukraine, Turkey and the United Nations struck a deal to provide a humanitarian maritime corridor for ships with food and fertilizer exports from Ukrainian Black Sea ports. However, Russian President Vladimir Putin has repeatedly said that most of the ships carrying Ukrainian grain did not make it to the world's poorest countries and ended up in Europe. At the same time, Putin has voiced his concerns that Russian products are not entering the global markets as promised by the agreement. Since then, the grain deal, originally scheduled to expire on November 19, has been renewed for another 120 days. https://sputnikglobe.com/20230203/russia-equatorial-guinea-discuss-gas-transmission-in-central-africa-1106941401.html africa russia Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2023 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International gas, oil, russia, africa, russia in africa, russia and africa, ties with africa, ties with russia, oleg ozerov, russia-africa partnership, russia-africa summit, https://sputnikglobe.com/20230204/russia-to-launch-luch-5-relay-satellite-in-march---1106978095.html Russia to Launch Luch-5 Relay Satellite in March Russia to Launch Luch-5 Relay Satellite in March Russia's Proton-M carrier rocket carrying a Luch-5 relay satellite will be launched from the Russian-leased Baikonur cosmodrome in Kazakhstan in March, the Yuzhny Space Center of the cosmodrome said on Saturday. 2023-02-04T15:29+0000 2023-02-04T15:29+0000 2023-02-04T15:29+0000 russia proton-m space exploration satellite /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e6/04/0c/1094714519_0:196:1889:1259_1920x0_80_0_0_ca340c66f863613d3816d08200479f0f.jpg Two years ago, sources in the space and rocket industry told Sputnik that the launch of the carrier rocket with the satellite - initially scheduled for 2021 - had been postponed to 2022. However, the satellite has not been launched yet. Russia's Luch multifunctional space system relay currently consists of three satellite-relays, Luch-5A, Luch-5B and Luch-5V, deployed to orbit from 2011-2014. The satellites relay information to and from spacecraft, other vehicles and ground stations on Earth. Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2023 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International space exploration, russia, proton-m, russian space exploration https://sputnikglobe.com/20230204/six-palestinians-injured-by-israeli-forces-in-refugee-camp-in-west-bank-media-reports-1106976412.html Six Palestinians Injured by Israeli Forces in Refugee Camp in West Bank, Media Reports Six Palestinians Injured by Israeli Forces in Refugee Camp in West Bank, Media Reports At least six Palestinians were injured as a result of an Israeli raid on Aqabat Jabr refugee camp in the city of Jericho in the West Bank, Palestinian news agency reported on Saturday, citing health authorities. 2023-02-04T12:58+0000 2023-02-04T12:58+0000 2023-02-04T13:01+0000 world middle east israel palestine /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e6/04/13/1094897114_0:0:3073:1728_1920x0_80_0_0_4255443b855d56b59e26f0d9665376ac.jpg Israeli forces opened fire at Palestinians in the refugee camp, as well as fired tear gas and stun grenades. In addition, the soldiers completely destroyed a poultry farm on the camps territory, the report said. The news agency cited the Palestinian Health Ministry as saying that the people injured in gunfire were hospitalized in Jericho, and three of them were then transferred to hospitals in the neighboring city of Ramallah due to the severity of their state. The Israeli forces also detained at least 10 Palestinians from different families during the raid, the news agency reported. This is not the first raid of Israeli forces in the West Bank this year. On January 26, Israeli raid in the city of Jenin killed nine Palestinians and injured 20 others, in the deadliest single day in the territory in years. Israel claims to have neutralized Palestinian militants suspected of preparing major terrorist attacks. The next day, seven Israelis were killed in a suspected terrorist shooting in Jerusalem, and another two in a shooting the day after that. In the aftermath of the deadly raid in Jenin, Palestine halted security coordination with Israel. Iran and Saudi Arabia strongly condemned the killings, while Russia, the United States, the European Union and the United Nations called for immediate deescalation and dialogue. https://sputnikglobe.com/20230202/blinken-to-abbas-use-special-forces-to-take-control-of-jenin-nablus-or-risk-third-intifada-1106935045.html israel Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2023 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International middle east, israel, palestine, arab-israeli conflict https://sputnikglobe.com/20230204/some-uk-officials-reluctant-to-give-nlaws-to-kiev-ex-pm-johnson-says-1106966908.html Some UK Officials Reluctant to Give NLAWs to Kiev, Ex-PM Johnson Says Some UK Officials Reluctant to Give NLAWs to Kiev, Ex-PM Johnson Says Former UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson says that a number British officials were against the supply of NLAW anti-tank grenade launchers to Ukraine. 2023-02-04T05:42+0000 2023-02-04T05:42+0000 2023-02-04T05:42+0000 russia's special operation in ukraine uk ukraine arms delivery boris johnson /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e6/08/13/1099753748_61:0:728:375_1920x0_80_0_0_a12f347db1a19d5c4db5f1850ee7136a.jpg During the discussions on the issue, which started as early as 2021, some officials warned that providing NLAW anti-tank systems might "provoke" Russian President Vladimir Putin, Johnson said in an interview with his friend and colleague Nadine Dorries, the former UK Culture Secretary. According to a document obtained by Sputnik in March, 2022, UK instructors trained Ukrainian soldiers in the use of weapons in 2018 when the parties to the Minsk process were trying to resolve the Donbass conflict peacefully, and London had not yet announced the supply of NLAW anti-tank grenade launchers. A Sputnik correspondent found the document in the Donbass city of Volnovakha, which included a certificate proving that Ukrainian soldier Boris Kazaryan took courses for junior sergeants with the participation of British instructors between October 17, 2018, and November 2, 2018. There was also a large number of NLAW launchers. London announced the supply of NLAW anti-tank grenade launchers to Ukraine in January, 2022. Russia launched its special military operation in Ukraine on February 24, 2022, after the Donetsk and Lugansk peoples republics (DPR and LPR) appealed for help in defending themselves against Ukrainian provocations. In response to Russias operation, Western countries have rolled out a comprehensive sanctions campaign against Moscow and have been supplying weapons to Ukraine. https://sputnikglobe.com/20230204/uk-has-no-more-heavy-guns-after-giving-them-to-ukraine---report-1106964062.html ukraine Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2023 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International nlaw anti-tank launcher, uk sends nlaw to ukraine, how much uk spent on ukraine, what weapons uk sent to ukraine, british weapons for kiev, what britain sent to ukraine